We all know that Southern California produces some outstanding creative self-expressers — often respected across the globe. It’s always a treat when those imagination-driven individuals showcase their talents on paper or through original narratives. Hat & Beard Press, a Los Angeles production house and independent publisher, is the lucky curator of the works of some of these creatives. And this season we’re showcasing a handful of their recent titles with our we-think-it’s-noteworthy spotlight.
B-Sides by Orian Williams
Childhood influences of a photographer (who was also his stepfather) and visual stimulation—compliments of the Texas countryside—influenced the Hollywood producer Orian Williams. The darkroom became his haven. It was the space that brought to life the images he captured through the lens. Orian Williams is known for his work on Sam & Kate, a film starring Dustin Hoffman and Sissy Spacek and Amy Adams. Beyond notable films, Williams has produced music documentaries featuring Pink Floyd, Billy Idol and many others. Williams’ images in B-Sides reflect his past and capture a style with origins rooted in his earliest creative experiences.
Earthquake Weather by Nicholas Ebeling
An art school grad, navigates city life in a quick-changing story set in LA in 2021. The author, Nick Ebeling, is an LA filmmaker who, with Earthquake Weather, has penned his first novel. Ebeling’s protagonist is a 22- year-old, driven by a desire to escape family ties that bind while pursuing his dreams in the music industry. Any wagers that this book becomes a movie adaptation?
Electric Moons by India Mandelkern
Electric Moons: A Social History of Street Lighting in Los Angeles is a unique title about a not often scrutinized necessity for the city dweller. It’s an examination of the art behind the designs of LA street lamps. It even explores the politics around erecting the high beams. The book is an expansive read that may have Angelenos looking up to study the towering receptacles on an evening walk, emitting the luminosity they rely on.
Akikomatic by Akiko Stehrenberget (2nd ed)
Akiko Stehrenberger. You probably know her work. Movie posters have been her medium for the past 15 years. Akiko uses surrealism to tell a unique story about the film her work promotes. Color, texture and dream-like imagery challenge notions of form and reality. Akikomatic is a great gift book for movie buffs. Use it as a guidebook to rewatch a series or film — like a David Lynch classic or a Sofia Coppola rom-com. Order the book to explore the other movies and films Akiko has elevated with her iconic pop-art movie posters.
I’m With Pulp, Are You? by Mark Webber
Can you imagine being a fan of a band as a teenager and years later having the band members ask you to become a member of said band? Not the typical rise to living one’s dream, but it was for Mark Webber! From stage manager to tour manager, Mark would soon get to play keyboard and guitar during live gigs for the British band Pulp. Next he’d take up songwriting and recording and ultimately the members would ask Mark to join the band. Now, decades later, most recently, Pulp has enjoyed a sold-out 2024 US tour. I’m With Pulp, Are You? is a fascinating read and a true chronicle of the band’s history from Webber’s brick-by-brick perspective.
Happy reading. Happy gifting. Happy holidays!
By María Felicia Kelley — @1mariafelicia, 19 December 2024
Writer, Publisher, EP – SoCal Spotlight
we.shine@lis.cbw.mybluehost.me
Copyright © 2024 María Felicia Kelley | Circle7531, LLC
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Southern California, USA
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