Blues & Arts Photos by Rachel Pack

Images taken at the San Felipe Blues & Arts Fiesta held March 24, 2012 in San Felipe Baja California. 

http://bajagoodlife.com/connect/image-gallery/?album=2012BluesAndArtsByRachelPack

2012 Blues & Arts Photos by Terry Van Arsdale

Images taken at the San Felipe Blues & Arts Fiesta held March 24, 2012 in San Felipe Baja California.
http://bajagoodlife.com/connect/image-gallery/?album=2012BluesAndArtsByTerryVanArsdale

San Diego Reader: Blues to the Rescue

John Pack Skypes early this morning from Baja California. He lives there year round. "After this call, I have to go up and chaperone about six bands through Mexicali and make sure they have a good experience." Pack checks his time. As we speak, a convoy of blues acts from San Diego is headed east through the morning desert. Pack will intercept them at the Calexico border crossing.

"Some of them have never been down here before."

Saturday, March 24, the San Felipe Lions Club will host their annual International Blues and Arts Festival, a fundraiser featuring local blues artists Chet Cannon and his band The Committee, Billy Watson, Nathan James, the Bayou Brothers, Mercedes Moore, North County's Inspired and the Sleep, Tom Stewart and the Backwater Blues Band, and Coyote Mike and the Wetbacks from Ensenada.

Now in their sixth season, Pack says the Lions had to move the event to the beach front at the Hotel El Cortez in order to accommodate the 2,000-plus who will attend. "It's all sold out around here," Pack says, "the El Cortez and the other hotels." He says this is becoming one of the Lions Club's [San Felipe's] biggest events. He says blame it on the music: "There's a lot of incredible blues talent in San Diego."

The San Felipe Lions Club is the second largest such service club in Baja. They are a relatively new club. Their web site says they received their charter in 2007. Proceeds from their various fundraisers help foot the bill for medical supplies, eye care, orphanages, and the Flying Samaritans. Pack says their blues fest is on track to bring in at least $20,000 this year.

Pack says he gets the word out through his Baja Good Life Club. "We're [like] the AARP of Baja." The membership of the Good Life Club includes a large percentage of roaming snowbirds that drive cross-country to bask in the banana belt tropics of San Felipe during the spring and summer months on the Gulf of Mexico [California].

It's taken six years, Pack says, for the blues and arts fest to mature into a consistent money maker. "All the hotels know we're an attraction now. And we get a lot of support from the State of Baja and from the Secretary of Tourism. They have really stepped up," he says. No wonder. In recent years Baja has fallen off the tourism charts due to media coverage of the drug trade and of cartel violence. I ask about that. I tell him I stopped spending Christmas in Ensenada for that very reason.

"The only thing dangerous about coming to Baja," he says, "is you have to drive through Southern California to get here." 

6th Annual International Blues and Arts Festival, Saturday March 24, San Felipe, $25dos. Info atwww.bluesandarts.com

http://www.sandiegoreader.com/weblogs/jam-session/2012/mar/23/blues-to-the-rescue/

Blues & Arts Fiesta UPDATE!

6th San Felipe Blues & Arts Fiesta is Saturday, March 24, 2012 at 
11AM at the El Coretz Hotel for Blues on the Beach!

All types of people will converge from everywhere to this magical place on the Sea of Cortez for an unforgettable day of BLUES and ART. We celebrate the very best in all people and the steadfast mission of the annual event remains: Changing Lives Through Music and Art.

We want everyone to have a wonderful experience to share for years to come! Below please review the fiesta information and guidelines to insure that the fun keeps movin’ all day long.

1. Doors will open at 11am with the first band on at 11:30 AM
2. Folding chairs are allowed, Please bring a chairs find your spot and stay ALL DAY!
3. Umbrellas or sun shades are permitted in the dedicated area of the Fiesta grounds.
4. A variety of food and beverage (water, beer, wine, & alcohol) will be available for purchase. No coolers, outside food, beverages of any kind are allowed.
5. No glass containers of any kind will be allowed in the Fiesta grounds.
6. Backpacks and other items may be searched by Fiesta Security.
7. No weapons of any kind are allowed on the Fiesta grounds.
8. Smoking is allowed, Please discard your (unlit) cigarette buds in proper trash containers.
9. No audio or video recording is allowed.
10. Dogs will be allowed into the Festival - Please keep your dog on a leash at all times, be responsible for the dog's water, food and picking up POO! Lastly if the animal exhibits any aggressive behavior the animal and the owner will be asked to leave by Fiesta Security.

Artist of 2012

Juan Silva
Juan Silva was born in Tapic, Nyarit, north of Gadalajara Mxico. He learned the art of Tablas Votivas from his mother´s people the Hichol Indians. His abilities to depict the traditional tribal themes were soon recognized. In 1976 he moved to Baja California were his traditional works soon came into demand. The enhancement of the ancient art form of the Huichol Indian portraying new objects has caught the eyes of many art admirers. Juan Silva lives and works in Rosarito Beach. silvasarteycolor1@hotmail.com & www.juansilva.com.mx

BAJA BEAUTY
BAJA BEAUTY are two women laughing, lounging and living in Beautiful San Felipe Baja Mexico. Janet & Jeanene create an all natural youthful skin care cream; design fun t-shirts silk screened locally; and design and create beautiful one-of-a-kind jackets, coats and vests with colorful Mexican blankets. We can be found at the weekly El Dorado Ranch Swap Meet or call Jeanene @ 686-186-0038 or email nenaone@gmail.com. Janet @ 686-105-7019 or email jzeller108@earthlink.net

Jose Rascon
Jose Rascon has become a craftsman in making mosaic tables and pictures. His quality of work is out standing because of the pride he take in each piece he works on. Jose offers a wide choice of design, colors, and custom work. See his works on Face book--Mosaics by Jose. To contact Jose please call his cell 044 686 228 2194, home 686 576 0310 or email rfbhf@yahoo.com.

Suzie & Marylou
Suzie and Marylou are using cloth, paper and paint to create an assortment of Eclectic Art using the intense colors and feelings they find here in San Felipe. Adding together their years living here in San Felipe, it comes to half a century of watching this town change, renewing their impressions and their work.

Scott Kennedy
World wide acclaimed marine artist, Scott Kennedy works out of his studio in Punta Banda where he has now turned his attention to the colors and rhythm of Baja. His paintings on location always seek to capture the essence of the scene he is painting. He also plans on gathering more of Mexico’s nature’s soul and culture and delivering it the way he knows best... on canvas. Scott is also working on a book featuring his works on Newport Beach, CA. For more information about Scott, please visit his website at www.scottkennedy.com. You can also befriend him on Facebook under ScottKennedyart

Vickie Silva
Baja Glitz, Unique Wearable Art, is featuring one of a kind handcrafted works of art you can wear, including clothing, handbags, sunglasses, hats all for the ladies who like to sparkle. Designed, crafted and hand-signed by artist Vickie Silva, these one-of-a-kind works incorporate vintage and contemporary pieces of fabrics, jewelry, Swarovski crystals, sterling silver findings, glass beads, wood beads, sea shells and more. Vickie Silva vicirae99@yahoo.com

Vickie Rama
Vickie Rama is a self taught crafter--I find it hard to call myself an “Artist”. To me that word has always meant Years of being taught (by another person ) to do something special with their hands and tools. I owned a Ceramic Shop in Michigan for 5 years at the young age of 25. then a Porcelain Doll Shop for 25 years..I have done so many crafts over the years that I was shocked to discover that I could be a carver also..And I do love doing it.

Nancy Murphy
Nancy Murphy is an artist who draws with fire. She uses gourds and leather as her canvas. She draws her original art directly on the gourd and uses a wood burner to make the drawing permanent. For pyrography on leather, Nancy draws her sketch on paper. After making a few guidelines on the leather she free hands the drawing with her wood burner using her sketch as a guide for shading.

Steve Sherrod
Steve Sherrod aka Iron Man Steve, is a financial advisor by profession. He lives and works full time in San Felipe with clients around the world. He has always loved to work with his hands and create and build things of his own design. His iron work started as a hobby and a wonderful mental break from the financial world. During the last year, he has also taught welding and iron work to participants in Desert Mothers’ Work Shops.As with many artist’s media, the iron seems to play a part in what the final result is but the original design resides in the mind of the artist or the person he builds the custom work for. Let him create some work that is a reflection of YOU; phone: 686-576-0034 or email: sjs497@aol.com.

Marianne Clagett
Band It - Marianne Clagett lives year round in San Felipe since moving here from Auburn, CA. She resides in El Dorado Ranch where she works on her sewing and crafting, a lifelong passion. On the prompting of two friends in Baja, Bandits themselves, she began “Band It”, a unique approach to hat bands to adorn straw and oversized hats. This success prompted her to expand her creativity to lightweight reversible sun hats...and as they say, “the rest is history!” Looking for one of a kind, hand made accessories? “Band It” products now include fully custom reversible vests, hats, reversible adjustable sun/golf visors and exciting line of sun dresses designed to complement the easy lifestyle of the Baja!

Baja Chocolate Lovers
Baja Chocolate Lovers of San Felipe has literally made grown folks weep when they have run out of its delectable treats. Endless testimonials tell tales of souls willing to give everything they have to taste one more piece of cake, chocolate gelato, orange truffle, or strawberry chocolate bar. These chocolateirs have made this business a must see stop in San Felipe. They entice customers with an endless list of treats that simply can’t be found anywhere else in Baja. They are masters at what they do and lovingly spread the sweetness around. They are located on Hwy #5 to San Felipe KM 180. bajachocolatelovers@yahoo.com, 928-785-2823 U.S.or 686-167-0716.

Judi Anderson
Judi Anderson has been taking outdoor pictures for 30 years. She says, “There are so many different ecosystems within 40 miles of SF. It’s amazing how versatile it is- waterfalls, creeks, mountains, beaches, and desert animals right in our backyards. “You just have to get out and go!” She packages her pictures with colorful mats that enhance every photo. The pictures are 8 x 10 and when matted fit into 11 x14 frames. Judi’s business is called “Life’s Treasures.”

R.P. Kidd
R.P. Kidd professional carrer of nearly 40 years has brought national recognition awards and collectors, “The reward of art is not just sales but communication, it’s success is in the viewers reaction”. In Rust Never Sleeps R.P. Kidd has found a touchstone that reaches a large and appreciative audience, his work evokes shared memories of people, places and eras. RUST NEVER SLEEPS.
Liane Barton has been spending her winters in San Felipe for 15 years. She specializes in top of the line Navajo Jewelry and leather bags. She has sterling silver with various stones in rings, necklaces, earrings and so much more Liane belongs to numerous Craft and Vendors Shows in the United States. Enjoy your visit in San Felipe. We hope to see you at our booth during the Blues and Arts Fiesta. sonnenschein1937@aol.com.

Marilynn Pardee
Marilynn Pardee moved to San Felipe from San Francisco in March of 2009. She had a clothing line PARDEE in Los Angeles in the 1980’s, which was carried in fashion-forward boutiques and prestigious stores throughout the United States. It was during that time that she began experimenting with layering colors using various spray techniques. San Felipe has perfect combination of space, inspiration and supportive people to prove that you can continue to pursue your passion. Thank you, thank you people of San Felipe! marilynn415@yahoo.com

Merkel McLendon
Merkel McLendon doesn’t remember a time when he didn’t feel driven to create art. He expressed himself through ceramics, oil painting and now found objects. As he finds his way in the world now, the items he stumbles upon become inspiring puzzle pieces spread across a congested table waiting to be placed together, to be a part of something. His oil paintings are a reflection of his childhood days, where the simple surroundings were miles of tailing fields and low flat mesas. This vastness of space made a great background for his surrealistic paintings.

Luis Cogley
Life and art join in a dynamic partnership as Luis Cogley portrays his continual Marvel of Life in joyful and animated multidimensional creations. Since his first years of life, he showed special interest in art. A vast audience, including sophisticated art collectors from different Parts of the world make Luis Cogley’s work a part of their homes, businesses and estates. The inspiration for great art, it is said comes from the heart. For Luis Cogley the inspiration comes from the soul.

Melody Ashley
Melody’s favorite art has always been the creating of a beautiful yard.After nine years in the landscape business Melody became interested in metal “garden art.”  She sold her company and began to design and have made wonderful forms that decorate homes and businesses from coast to coast in the United States. When Melody decided to move to San Felipe in 2000, she began to teach herself how to make her own metal and tile art.  Durning this same time, she also built several homes in San Felipe, including the first tire house in town, all of which have been on the AARP tour of home. Over the years Melody has become better at her art and has enjoyed many happy customers. Visit Melody’s web site for information on the classes she teaches each spring here in San Felipe. Melody’s art is also displayed in several galleries on the Oregon Coast. web site: www.florenceastists.com/melodyashley.html or just Google: Melody Ashley Art


Arturo Gomez
Arturo Gomez has been painting for 35 years. He is a second generation artist. He uses many mediums such as water colors, acrylic, oil. Although you can find his art on canvas, his work can also be found on clay tiles, ceramics, wood and mirrors. Arturo is also well known for his beautiful wall murals that decorate many homes in San Felipe.Trained by his father, Master Artist Juan Gomez.


Desert Mothers
Desert Mothers builds bridges between the Mexican women and the foreign communities. We provide a Art facility where everyone can develop and learn artistic skills. Desert Mothers provides a means for women to build self esteem, respect, and help their children know they too can become successful and to encourage them to become involved with in their own community. Please don’t hesitate to contact Donna Roberts at bajadonna@gmail.com

Blues Bands of 2012

Coyote Mike and the Wetbacks - 11:30
The Wetbacks are a group of international musicians that got together in Ensenada in the spring of 2010 with most of the members having had previous experience with different groups over the years with varying degrees of success. We came together to create a blend of sounds ranging from blues and rock to funk, jazz and reggae. We do original material as well as covers always with that ¨Wetback twist . The musicians range in age from 17 to 61 years old and having this wide age range allows us to accept the new and see the old with fresh eyes and ears. We look forward to performing for all of you.

Inspired & the Sleep - 12:30
Inspired and the Sleep is an Blues-Motown-R&B band from North County San Diego. This three piece, composed of beach lifeguard coworkers, plays shows all around San Diego, LA and everything in between. Hayden Stewart (drummer), Max Greenhalgh (bassist/vocal), and Bryce Outcault (guitarist) have been playing the SoCal scene for the past 2 years. The group’s inspiration comes from artists such as Al Green, Otis Redding, and even The Backwater Blues Band. Tom Stewart, drummer and head of The Backwater Blues Band, and Hayden Stewart’s father, has provided a noticeable amount input and advice to Inspired and the Sleep set. They have even sat in on BWBB gigs.

Chet Cannon & the Committee - 1:30
Chet & the Committee front man Chet Cannon is a self-described “terminal blues fan” who once attended 26 blues concerts in 29 days. “We pour our heart into every performance. Our main objective is to make sure it’s a good time.” The band’s Don’t Get Me Started! CD was SDMA-nominated in 2006 for Best Blues Album. Source: San Diego Reader online. Contact BluShouter@aol.com

Mercedes Moore Band - 2:30
Nothing can describe the Mercedes Moore Band better than the laudatory remark of the San Diego Reader: “This is one hot singer! Blues Diva Mercedes Moore is burning down the blues clubs is Southern California!” Indeed, the popularity of the band made up of Scot Smart (guitar) John Simons (bass) Kurt Kalker (drums) and Mercedes Moore (vocals) will easily cross the border from San Diego to Baja California. The music of the Mercedes Moore Band is reminiscent of the 50s and the 60s, and it is based on a harmonious combination of soul, blues and R ‘n’ B. A large share of the band’s popularity can be put down to the sultry and strong voice of the lead singer. The music of the Mercedes Moore Band is like a breath of air for the true music lover.

Backwater Blues Band All Stars - 3:30
The Backwater Blues Band is one of San Diego’s premiere Blues Bands in the styles of Swing, Funk, R&B, “Jazz-Blues”, and even plays their own original music. The Backwater Blues Band was founded in 1995 by Tom Stewart as an outlet to play music that is revered among the many friends and family that would come to Tom’s house parties. Over time the band “broke out” of the garage and started playing San Diego’s finest establishments. Come hear for yourself the great Blues tones that Backwater Blues Band creates!

Billy Watson - 4:30
Billy is an entertainer extraordinaire, capable of throwing down a blues show that can be infectiously hilarious and convincingly nasty. His energy as a frontman is relentless, his vocals inspiring, and his harp work musically outstanding. Billy’s repertoire ranges from creepy grooves, grinding shuffles, to fast boogies and swings. Yet audiences do not flock to his shows simply for his mastery of the harmonica... they are drawn by his magnetic stage personality and the idea of never knowing what antic may be next!

Bayou Brothers with Charles Burton - 5:30
San Diego’s favorite Zydeco band, with a sound straight out of Louisiana’s dance clubs, bayou festivals and backyard crawfish boils, the BAYOU BROTHERS will rock you right on into “Fat Tuesday” with their extensive experience and endless enthusiasm to deliver a rousing, rollicking, heart thumpin’, foot stompin’ musical gumbo y’all won’t soon forget!!!

Nathan James Band - 6:30
Currently Nathan’s three piece band is forging a cumulative sound that combines elements of 1920’s acoustic blues, amplified juke joint hill country, and 1950’s uptown blues mixed with 1960’s soulful R&B! Influences range from Tampa Red, to B.B. King, to James Brown and the Famous Flames. This is not your average blues power trio that leans towards the much abused “blues rock” formula. Instead each member in the band knows all the nuances of the different feels and tones. Knowing how to get people’s attention, Nathan will often go out solo from the bandstand and burst into a frenzied ragtime breakdown that can lead to a washboard solo on his custom LED lit ‘Washtar Gitboard’!

GRAND FINALLY ALL STAR JAM - 7:30

Thank you Sponsors!

Thank you to all the sponsors of the 2012 Blues & Arts Fiesta.
Your participation helps to make this event happen every year. THANK YOU to:

•             KYMA Channel 11
•             El Cortez Hotel
•             Tecate
•             Baja Good Life Club
•             San Felipe Disposal
•             El Dorado Ranch
•             Valley Auto Liquidators
•             Mid Valley Chevy & Dodge
•             Cotuco Mexicali
•             Tecsys
•             Bullseye Amusements
•             Petes Camp
•             Kikis Rv Camping & Hotel
•             Materiales La Competencia
•             Fat Boys Bar & Pizza
•             Versoleil
•             Oxxo
•             Fotografia Alvarez
•             Del Desierto Communications
•             Baja Bound
•             Sun Runner Mail Service
•             Don Jesus Hotel
•             Crista Puro
•             Jb Sound Productions
•             Alanis Insurance
•             Rancho Market
•             San Felipe Storage
•             Yiro Manufacturing

2012 Blues POST Party At Rumors!

2012 Blues POST Party! Date: Sunday - March 25, 2012
Time & Place: 12PM at Rumors Bar & Grill
Cost: $5.00 US or $60.00 pesos

The Fiesta post-party is being hosted by Rumors Bar & Grill, and will feature the bands and musician of the fiesta. Jeanne at Rumors Bar & Grill is hosting this with good food and tasty drinks, just north of San Felipe in the Playa de Oro business center. Start time at Noon / 12 pm.  The cover is also $5 US or 60 pesos ~ and worth it!

2012 Blues Pre-Party!

2012 Blues Pre-Party! Date: Friday - March 23, 2012

Time & Place: 6PM at the Barefoot bar at the El Cortez Hotel
Cost: $5.00 US or $60.00 pesos

This giant bienvenidos (welcome) party will be hosted by the Backwater Blues Band, and featuring many of the musicians that will be playing the festival. Cover charge is only $5 or 60 pesos at the famous Barefoot Bar, located right in the El Cortz Hotel on the beach. This is a meet and greet for all of the stars of Blues Bands of 2012! Drinks will be served all night as we get a taste of Saturday show. VIP's will be attending (your ticket includes entry into the to the Pre-Party). Don't miss it!

The San Felipe Lions Club & the Baja Good Life Club Present the Annual San Felipe 2012 Blues & Arts Fiesta. San Felipe is safe, fun, affordable, and the roads are great all the way to our village on the Sea of Cortez.  Accommodations are available for every budget.  Our community is diverse and open minded and full of energy ~ and we want you to come to San Felipe and have the time of your life.  Tickets On Sale NOW - General $20 (2$0 at the door) & VIP ONLY $50. This will for sure to be legendary weekend of fun, friends and music. For more information:  www.BluesandArts. com. 

Blues Man Raffle

The Blues Man created out of METAL by artist Melody Ashley. The Blues Man will be on display at the Pre-Party and raffle tickets are available to purchase for a chance to WIN your very own Blues Man. The Cost is $2.00 US or $20.00 pesos per ticket or $10.00 US or $100.00 pesos for 6 tickets.

All the bands will be signing it and it will be raffled off before the headliner bands performs the night of the event. Winner does not need to be present to win, so name and phone number is a must on the ticket. All the proceeds so to help the San Felipe community.

LAST CHANGE $20 Tickets

General Admission Presale Tickets - LAST CHANCE!

Come to the Baja Good Life Office before 12PM and get your tickets for ONLY 20.00 US. BGL Club Members your tickets are ONLY $15.00 US! Get to the office on Friday before 12pm.

Bring your hat and set up your chair in the festival seating area. Relax and enjoy the music of 8 great bands and many artist sharing their creations. You can also purchase VIP Tickets, they are ONLY $50dlls; you receive reserved box seats in a private seating area, VIP service and truly, the best seats in the house to see and hear the lineup of musical acts the day of the show.

The San Felipe Lions Club produces the annual event that raises funding for local humanitarian work. Local recipients include schools, medical services, eye exam clinics, the new orphanages, and more. Funds go directly to those in need. The energy of the musicians, visual artists, audience, and all our supporters hits a critical mass that day and we celebrate the best in all of us. "Changing Lives Through Music and Art" is the mission of the event and it all happens at the 6th Blues & Arts Fiesta 2012 in San Felipe!

Mary Lou Wilhelm & Rosario Torres

Mary Lou Wilhelm (artist) and Rosario Torres (Sculptor and Jeweler) along with Elwyn Freeman (Potter) will be attending the Arts and Blues Festival with a sample of their individual works of art.

Mary Lou and Rosario partnered to erect a gallery from which to promote their individual art. The gallery itself is a fine example of “art” and worth a visit when you travel to San Felipe. You will find sculpture, watercolors, hand-made jewelry and pottery for your browsing pleasure (and of course, for sale). The Galleria is located on the Mexicali-San Felipe highway 5, K-183.

2012 Blues & Arts Program

The 6th Annual Blues & Arts Fiesta is this Saturday March 24, 2012.

Like a good tequila, it just gets better with age and on the Blues and Arts Fiesta's 6th birthday, it's going to the beach! The 2012 Blues and Arts Fiesta is at the famous El Cortez Hotel on the Sea of Cortez.  Come join us this Saturday for the Baja music event of the year.

Here is the 2012 Blues & Arts Fiesta event program

Chet Cannon Returns!

Chet Cannon and his band will have set of my own at San Felipe Blues and Arts Fest so there has been a change of plans.

Chet Cannon will return to San Felipe Blues and Arts Fiesta this year with a set of them Good Time Swinging Blues and Rocking Boogie by "Chet's All Star Committee" featuring Nathan James, Scoty Williams, Chuck Arcilla, Mr. John Chambers and Tom Stewart.

Remember this is going to be another real good time so be sure to get your tickets early. You won't want to miss a minute of it! www.bluesandarts.com  

peace and grease,

Chet from San Diego

Mosaics by Jose

Jose Rascon has become a craftsman in making mosaic tables and pictures.  His quality of work is out standing because of the pride he take in each piece he works on.

Jose offers a wide choice of design, colors, and custom work.  See his works on Face book--Mosaics by Jose. To contact Jose please call his  cell 044 686 228 2194, home 686 576 0310 or email rfbhf@yahoo.com.

Elwyn Freeman

Elwyn Freeman has been potting for over 30 years. His first time "in the mud" conected him with something that was special. He is not a production potter; rather liking to do whatever the clay tells him he needs to throw next. Elwyn says throwing keeps him out of trouble but we all know it keeps his blood pressure down. Born in Sacramento, CA., he migrated to San Felipe and found a new home much the same way he found he loved clay. In addition to showing at craft fairs in the local area he has connected with two other artists, Rosario Torres and Mary Lou Wilhelm, at Unica Gallery on Hightway 5 heading into San Felipe. Stop by and say "hi" sometime when you are in the area. Elwyn Freeman - deepinclay@earthlink.net

Juan Silva the Artist

Juan Silva was born in Tapic, Nyarit, north of Gadalajara  Mxico. He learned the art of Tablas Votivas from his mother´s people the Hichol Indians. His abilities to depict the traditional tribal themes were soon recognized.  In 1976 he moved to Baja California were his traditional works soon came into demand. The enhancement of the ancient art form of the Huichol Indian portraying new objects has caught the eyes of many art admirers. Juan Silva lives and works in Rosarito Beach. silvasarteycolor1@hotmail.com & www.juansilva.com.mx

Scott O. Kennedy - Marine Artist

Scott O. Kennedy - Marine Artist
Worldwide acclaimed marine artist, Scott Kennedy has now turned his attention to the colors and rhythm of Baja, His paintings always seek to capture the essence of the scene he is painting. Last year, Scott was invited to show his work at CEARTE, in Ensenada.Opening Night was on the 20th of January of this year and was a great success! http://scottkennedyart.blogspot.com/

Blues & Arts Fiesta History: 2005 - 2012

Blues & Arts Fiesta History:  2005 - 2012
The original concept of the International Blues & Arts Fiesta started in 2005 by the San Felipe Blues and Arts Society, consisting of Diane Grubb, Rick Rudd and Heather Penrod; and although it's not the same event today, the foundation created by these three was solid. 

Diane had organized art shows and festivals in the States, Rick was an artist as well as musician, and Heather promoted music in Reno at a roadhouse bar and was on the board of the Reno Blues Society. 

In 2005 they produced their first art show at the San Felipe Storage Facility owned by the Grubbs. Rick thought a little music would be nice while people were looking at the art. No problem—he had friends that could play. 

For the next two years this group would produce their art show. In 2007, they decided to do a two-day event, and billed it as the First Annual Blues and Arts Festival. It was held at the Beachcomber Courtyard. The artists had exhibits on the street along the malecon, and inside the bar the bands would play. The bands featured were 3rd Generation, Vatos Locos, Michele Lundeen and Blues Streak, and Full Moon Blues Band.

The day of the show, the sound man failed to show up. Arturo and Tavo of 3rd Generation came to their rescue. Of course, there were others who helped—things pulled together and the event raised money for Shriners and the local community.

In 2008, The Lions Club of San Felipe took over the reigns of the event and asked John and Rachel Pack of Baja Good Life Club to help. John and Rachel had a long history of promoting and marketing large events, and after seeing the great accomplishments of Gary Dilley and the young Lions Club—at the time, less than a year old—John and Rachel joined the Lions Club themselves; and together, they began producing what is now called the the International Blues & Arts Fiesta.

2008 was an incredible year for the Blues, it went from a bar to the baseball field, reached out across all of Baja, Sonora, and both Southern California and Arizona to attract international artists, and featured world-class bands from the same regions. The event raised enough money to provide eye care, surgeries, and various other medical services and equipment for the San Felipe Community. 

In 2009, under new Lions President, Hal "Paco" Clark, the Lions Club, Baja Good Life Club and an army of professionals, volunteers and supporters, the Fiesta was the best year to date. They raised enough money to not only provide the medical support to the community but also help to build an orphanage for displaced and abused children. 

In 2010, Gary Dilley has once again taken the reigns of the Lions Club and now—along with new Lion's vice president Jim Moore, John and Rachel Pack of Baja Good Life Club, and nearly 200 other professionals, volunteers and supporters—presents the Fiesta you see today. The 2010 International Blues & Arts Fiesta is a showcase for some of the finest artists and best blues bands in this part of the world.

In 2011 president Jim Moore, Gary Dilley, John and Rachel Pack of Baja Good Life Club, the San Felipe Lions Club  and hundreds of other professionals, volunteers and supporters helped to organize the 5th year of the Fiesta. The 5th Annual San Felipe Blues & Arts Fiesta was a showcase for some of the best bands and most creative artists in the area.

Now here we are 2012 for the 6th Annual San Felipe Blues & Arts Fiesta. in 2012 the current president Gary Dilley, John and Rachel Pack of Baja Good Life Club, the San Felipe Lions Club, and firends of the Lions volunteers and supporters are ready to promote this years Blues & Arts Event. The 6th Annual San Felipe Blues & Arts Fiesta is going to be hosted by best  BLUES talent and showcase most creative ARTISTS in the area, hosted by the El Cortez for Blues on the Beach!

March 24, 2012 at El Corez 11am - 8pm with BLUES and the best art you will find in Baja in the BEACH! Buy your tickets NOW - $20 pre-sale! Are you a BGLC Memberber SAVE $5.00 on your ticket - email us TODAY!

Billy Watson

HE PLAYS THE HARMONICA!

Billy is an entertainer extraordinaire, capable of throwing down a blues show that can be infectiously hilarious and convincingly nasty. His energy as a frontman is relentless, his vocals inspiring, and his harp work musically outstanding. Billy's repertoire ranges from creepy grooves, grinding shuffles, to fast boogies and swings. Yet audiences do not flock to his shows simply for his mastery of the harmonica... they are drawn by his magnetic stage personality and the idea of never knowing what antic may be next!

Blues music was created by people looking for a way to forget their "blues" by telling their stories through song. Billy's show reminds modern audiences that blues music can be lowdown, but that in the end it's all about having some fun, dancing, and forgetting about your worries. www.billywatson.com

Liane Barton - Navajo Jewelry

Liane Barton has been spending her winters in San Felipe for 15 years. She specializes in top of the line Navajo Jewelry and leather bags. She has sterling silver with various stones in rings, necklaces, earrings

and so much more Liane belongs to numerous Craft and Vendors Shows in the United States. Enjoy your visit in San Felipe. We hope to see you at our booth during the Blues and Arts Fiesta. sonnenschein1937@aol.com.

Artist Spotlight: Melody Ashley

Melody Ashley’s interest in Art has been life long.  Her favorite art is the creating of a beautiful yard. After nine years in the landscape business she became interested in metal “garden art.”  She sold her company and began to design and have made wonderful forms that decorate gardens all over the United States.  When Melody  move to San Felipe in 2000, she began to teach herself how to make her own metal art.  Durning this same time, she also built several homes in San Felipe, including the first tire house in the Ejido. All have been on the AARP tour of homes.  


Over the years, Melody has enjoyed many happy customers with her fun designs. Recently,  Melody donated her time to Desert Mother’s , a local non profit benefiting young hispanic mothers, doing 13 workshops and teaching 29 students how to cut metal with a plasma cutter.  


Melody’s art is also displayed in several galleries on the Oregon Coast. You can google:  Melody Ashley Art to see some of her recent creations. melodya2004@yahoo.com

BAJA BEAUTY - Janet & Jeanene

BAJA BEAUTY are two women laughing, lounging and living in Beautiful San Felipe Baja Mexico.  Janet & Jeanene create an all natural youthful skin care cream; design fun t-shirts silk screened locally; and design and create beautiful one-of-a-kind jackets, coats and vests with colorful Mexican blankets.   We can be found at the weekly El Dorado Ranch Swap Meet or call Jeanene @ 686-186-0038 or email nenaone@gmail.com.  Janet @ 686-105-7019 or email jzeller108@earthlink.net

Marilynn Pardee

Marilynn moved to San Felipe from San Francisco in March of 2009.  She had a clothing line PARDEE in Los Angeles in the 1980’s, which was carried in fashion-forward boutiques and prestigious stores throughout the United States. It was during that time that she began experimenting with layering colors using various spray techniques.  This had to be put on hold with the birth of her daughter.  Now 24 years later, she is picking up where she left off.  San Felipe has perfect combination of space, inspiration and supportive people to prove that you can continue to pursue your passion.  Thank you, thank you people of San Felipe! marilynn415@yahoo.com

The Bayou Brothers!

The Bayou Brothers!
San Diego's favorite Zydeco band, with a sound straight out of Louisiana's dance clubs, bayou festivals and backyard crawfish boils, the BAYOU BROTHERS will rock you right on into "Fat Tuesday" with their extensive experience and endless enthusiasm to deliver a rousing, rollicking, heart thumpin', foot stompin' musical gumbo y'all won't soon forget!!!

Start with a blend of accordion, keyboards, guitar, bass, drums and rubboard, add three-part harmonies, mix it up with a lot of rockin' Zydeco, blues, R&B and that great Mardi Gras sound, toss in dazzling showmanship and a big old dance floor and you get the hot, spicy musical jambalaya that IS the BAYOU BROTHERS!!! For Bookings, Special Events, Schedule Information and Merchandise sales, please call: Ric Lee (619) 691-1609.

Baja Chocolate Lovers of San Felipe

Baja Chocolate Lovers of San Felipe has literally made grown folks weep when they have run out of its delectable treats. Endless testimonials tell tales of souls willing to give everything they have to taste one more piece of cake, chocolate gelato, orange truffle, or strawberry chocolate bar. These chocolateirs have made this business a must see stop in San Felipe. They entice customers with an endless list of treats that simply can't be found anywhere else in Baja. They are masters at what they do and lovingly spread the sweetness around.  They are located on Hwy #5 to San Felipe KM 180. bajachocolatelovers@yahoo.com, 928-785-2823 U.S.or 686-167-0716.

Chet Cannon is back in town

Chet Cannon is back in town. . .

You know and love him, in the past have enjoyed his band The Committee at San Felipe. Chet will be returning again this year as a Special Guest with The Backwater Blues Band. Remember this is going to be another real good time so be sure to get your tickets early. San Felipe Blues and Arts Festival - Don't miss a minute! www.bluesandarts.com

Vickie Silva - Baja Glitz

Vickie Silva - Baja Glitz, Unique Wearable Art, is featuring one of a kind handcrafted works of art you can wear, including clothing, handbags, sunglasses, hats all for the ladies who like to sparkle. Designed, crafted and hand-signed by artist Vickie Silva, these one-of-a-kind works incorporate vintage and contemporary pieces of fabrics, jewelry, Swarovski crystals, sterling silver findings, glass beads, wood beads, sea shells and more. Vickie Silva vicirae99@yahoo.com

Artist Spotlight: Judy Wright

Judy Wright fell in love with the welding torch in college but (for practical reasons) went on to a career as an English teacher and later a counselor. Nearing retirement from Fulton Co. Schools (GA) she enrolled in a metalsmithing course and rediscovered her love of metals and tools used in crafting metal jewelry.

She has been making jewelry for 10 years, and her one-of-a-kind pieces are highly sought after.  For three years she traveled via motorhome (thus the shop's original name, Jaded Goats Mobile Studio), participating in art/craft shows across the country.  Now she divides her time between her Santa Fe home and her motorhome here in San Felipe.  Judy -- and her shop, JudithGayleDesigns -- are excited about a second year of participating in the San Felipe Blues & Arts Festival.  You may preview her work at Etsy.com/shops/JudithGayleDesigns.

Inspired and the Sleep

Inspired and the Sleep is an Blues-Motown-R&B band from North County San Diego. This three piece, composed of beach lifeguard coworkers, plays shows all around San Diego, LA and everything in between. Hayden Stewart (drummer), Max Greenhalgh (bassist/vocal), and Bryce Outcault (guitarist) have been playing the SoCal scene for the past 2 years. The group's inspiration comes from artists such as Al Green, Otis Redding, and even The Backwater Blues Band. Tom Stewart, drummer and head of The Backwater Blues Band, and Hayden Stewart's father, has provided a noticeable amount input and advice to Inspired and the Sleep set. They have even sat in on BWBB gigs.


 All the members are full-time students; however, they find time to perform a variety of shows like open mics, festivals, bars, houses, grand openings, college shows, and so on... The variety in gigs reflects on the member's variety in personalities. If one was to ever spot the them during rehearsal, you would notice the relationship between one another is almost strictly satirical and sarcastic. Nevertheless, they are good friends who use this mix of disposition to season their Blues/Rock/R&B sound with a hint of "alternative".

Nathan James

Currently Nathan’s three piece band is forging a cumulative sound that combines elements of 1920's acoustic blues, amplified juke joint hill country, and 1950's uptown blues mixed with 1960's soulful R&B! Influences range from Tampa Red, to B.B. King, to James Brown and the Famous Flames. This is not your average blues power trio that leans towards the much abused "blues rock" formula. Instead each member in the band knows all the nuances of the different feels and tones. Knowing how to get people's attention, Nathan will often go out solo from the bandstand and burst into a frenzied ragtime breakdown that can lead to a washboard solo on his custom LED lit 'Washtar Gitboard'! Another unique aspect of a live show is band mate Troy Sandow. He may start off the set on upright bass while Nathan will play an uptown lead guitar style in the vein of B.B. or T-bone Walker. Then he will switch over to amplified harmonica and Nathan will fingerpick a driving groove on his baritone guitar in the style of R.L. Burnside or Lightnin' Hopkins. Although Nathan's band pays homage to these traditions and has the same quality of musicianship, there is an original and fresh new energy coming from musicians of a much younger generation.


Band members consist of:

Marty Dodson (drums, vocals) was raised in a Southern Baptist church, listening to his grandfather's sermons and his mother's piano playing. "I loved the music at church and when we got home, would beg her to play the boogie woogie." Records at home consisted of gospel, country, bluegrass and early rock-n-roll (Little Richard & Jerry Lee Lewis, of course.) "My family bought me a drum set when I was ten and I haven't stopped playing." During his career, as a long time member of Mark Hummel's Blues Survivors, he has toured with virtually every well known blues harmonic player in the world including: James Cotton, Lazy Lester, Snooky Pryor, Kim Wilson, Lee Oskar, James Harman, Charlie Musslewhite, John Mayall, Rod Piazza, and even Huey Lewis!  Marty has studied all the nuances of blues and soul drummers including: Fred Below, S.P. Leary, Francis Clay, and Al Jackson. He has been a veteran touring musician for most of his adult life.

Troy Sandow (upright and Fender bass, harmonica, vocals) started playing music after he heard the Muddy Waters "Can't Get No Grindin" LP. harmonica influences are George "Harmonica" Smith, Big Walter Horton, James Cotton, Slim Harpo, Lazy Lester, Whispering Smith and Sylvester Buckley, and James Harman.  He later took up the bass and spent many hours listening to Stax, Motown and Muscle Shoals rhythm sections, along with blues upright bassists Big Crawford, Ransom Knowling, and Willie Dixon. Troy joined the James Harman band in 2009, and also works with many other well know bands including a traditional country band he co-founded called "Hello Trouble".

Coyote Mike and the Wetbacks are coming to San Felipe

 The Wetbacks are a group of international musicians that got together in Ensenada in the spring of 2010 with most of the members having had previous experience with different groups over the years with varying degrees of success.  We came together to create a blend of sounds ranging from blues and rock to funk, jazz and reggae. We do original material as well as covers always with that ¨Wetback twist .

The reason for the name of the band was a tongue in cheek social statement rather than a racial slur or derogatory statement. We as a group have never seen an alien, let alone an illegal one,  and knowing that we are all citizens of this one small speck of dust flying through the cosmos we feel that if one person is called a wetback then we are all wetbacks. Borders we believe are false constructs that separate rather that unite people.

The musicians range in age from 17 to 61 years old  and having this wide age range allows us to accept the new and see the old with fresh eyes and ears. We look forward to performing for all of you.

As always we wish you happiness, love and great tunes.

Mike

Artist Spotlight - Arturo Gomez

Arturo Gomez has been painting for 35 years. He is a second generation artist. He uses many mediums such as water colors, acrylic, oil. Although you can find his art on canvas, his work can also be found on clay tiles, ceramics, wood and mirrors. Arturo is also well known for his beautiful wall murals that decorate many homes in San Felipe.Trained by his father, Master Artist Juan Gomez. While enjoying the Blues and Arts Fiesta, please stop by and see this beautiful Rustic Mexican Art.