Growing up in Mexico has left me with more than just fond memories of a culture that is immersed in its deep historical charm. I can vividly remember the ambiance, the weather, the people and the culture, and since leaving I've chosen to revisit my memories by living through great Mexican artists such as Octavio Ocampo. His creations adorn the walls of many homes, estates, tattoo shops and his artwork have been displayed everywhere from grocery stores to galleries all across the world.
In this rare and exclusive interview, we take a close look at Octavio's daily life as well as some of his rarest pieces. Take for instance the cover, which was painted back in 1988 titled "El Bien Y El Mal", The Good and The Evil, I chose this painting to grace our cover since many of us can relate to the evil that's always lurking around us. Whether it's the evil we encounter when we are faced with tempting decisions or the allure and lure of making easy money and living the fast life. We have all been faced with decisions that often times have an easier and evil route. Besides, how many of us remember being kids and praying to our Angel de la Guarda (guardian angel) every time we went to sleep!
In this same issue, we also had a chance to meet up with Victor Bono, a coppersmith that learned his craft in elementary school but mastered it behind the bars after a 31-year sentence. In yet another rare and exclusive interview, he shares with us the highs and lows of his career while also offering his advice on art, culture and living.
 |  This issue's winners are sponsored...  This issue's winners are sponsored by: www.Imperialsurfacetechnologies.com | 
Summer Muñoz |
In closing, I'm also proud to let you know that this is the first time we are featuring a female artist. She goes by the name of Summer, and appropriately enough she's bringing heat to the stencil game and added a new element of creativity for the ladies of art. She is also one of the most respected female street artists in the industry and we are glad to show her artwork to the world. In our Hot Spot section we took off to Mexico City were we were invited as a special guest to talk about the importance of Chicano art. I hope you enjoy the new issue since we are putting our heart and soul into it for all to enjoy.
Thank you for making this year a remarkable and memorable year!
Francisco Ramirez | 
Bert L. Szabo |  |
Edgar Hoill
Arte Editor
edgar.hoill@sorc.com