It is really a gallery "space" and a hip clothing store combined. I would guess that most of the clothing is unisex and targets 18 to 25 year olds with some discretionary cash to spend. It is pretty representative of what you might consider to be Hip-Hop culture. It is nicely done, spacious, and the gallery space comprises about a 1/3 of the total retail surface. Every month they showcase younger artists from the graphic design and graffiti underground sticker indie music mileu. Collabro was curated by Poor Al, a local San Diego artist, who also collaborated on several of the works exhibited.

There were over 30 artists who were exhibiting that evening and works of art in many different styles and mediums. There were also plenty of people at the opening, free flowing Corona's and a live DJ spinning.

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I had a great time. The work exhibited was fresh, innovative, exciting and perhaps at times, a tad bit too professional looking - a little too much design, a little too much cliché, a little bit too much Hollywood - glitzy, pretty and over the top. But the amount of quality works shown quickly made you forget this minor and forgivable "error" as you were quickly swept up into the ambiance, energy and passion of the artists and their creations.

Up in the left hand corner of the image is a collaborative piece by Poor Al and my most favorite piece in the entire show. It's difficult to explain why I like this piece so much, but I think part of it comes from its blatant simplicity and execution/subject matter and the little figurine in the lower left corner of the drawing that is saying to this woman on all fours, ass in the air " We love you ". Excellent piece!



click on image for larger view

click on image for larger view



Even Luna had a good time, limes and all!

This was really an excellent show all in all. I like the play on and subtility of the title Collabro (drop the r and you have Collabo, slang for a not so friendly group of individuals during World War II). But nevertheless, there were truly plenty of brothers in arms for this turnout and the strength and diversity of what was being shown was a rare energy, not seen lately here in SD, that should be paid attention to and followed with loyal and religious fervor.

Subject Matter Gallery
Please call the gallery for opening hours and duration of show.