This is part of our Books from Banned Countries series. You can see them all here. You may think you know nothing about Somali literature, but you’re mistaken. Okay, perhaps you’re right and you can’t name a single Somali author. But unless you’ve been living under a rock somewhere way, way

The “Artist You Should Know” series highlights local artists before they exhibit their work somewhere awesome, it’s our way of supporting the creative community and helping to keep San Francisco a strange and wonderful place.  Meet artist Uma Rani Iyli, and see her work at the stARTup Art Fair opening April 28th at the

This week I was lucky enough to sit down with the up and coming NYC comedic music duo Sam & Bill. With their flawless blend of seemingly benign folk music, comedic lyrics, and fearless attitude, they are quickly becoming a local favorite in Manhattan and the surrounding boroughs. The duo, composed

The “Artist You Should Know” series highlights local artists before they exhibit their work somewhere awesome, it’s our way of supporting the creative community and helping to keep San Francisco a strange and wonderful place.  Meet artist Justin Teisl, and see his work at the SFWA Gallery April 4th – May 6th. Name: Justin Teisl

Gilbert Baker, an artist who in 1978 created the iconic Rainbow Flag, passed away on Friday at his home in New York City. He was 65 years old. Cause of death remains unknown at this time. An army veteran, Gilbert was stationed in San Francisco when he was honorably discharged

Hearing that Paul Madonna faced eviction after drawing SF in such a beautiful light for so many years and inspiring the bright-eyed optimists, it seemed like a bold betrayal. Maybe it was true. The city’s soul had been gobbled up by the heartless tech-fueled robot.

A few weeks ago someguy put up a piece of art on Division Street. The piece hit home because it was a solemn reminder of the tent city that used to occupy that space in San Francisco, the homeless encampment that has since been dispersed. The tents were confiscated by the city and the homeless were forced off the busy street, but the people and their tents didn’t simply disappear, they are now scattered on side alleys and streets that are more hidden from view.

The feeling of relief, camaraderie, jubilance, and hope in the air was palpable. I walked down Market St. in the freezing rain with some of my favorite people, danced in the window of Luggage Store Gallery, took turns swigging booze from a flask, and ended up in Chinatown.