In our debut photo essay column, Photographers in Action, Nick Isabella is in perfect form as he shoots the cover of our June issue. Arash Afshar, ever cat like, captures his gregarious yet agile technique.

Igniting Pride is the rallying cry of the Ignite collection photo shoot which provided Arash Afshar, photographer, an opportunity to offer his perspective on the creative process, making art vs allowing art to make itself.

Miki Vale is a hip-hop artist with the heart and drive of an artivist focusing on social and political issues. She loves to create, to share, and to help others create, as well. She is also a poet, a commissioned playwright, and a teacher working with displaced and disconnected populations. Miki talks Respite, and what it means to feel at home.

Jamahl is one of my best friends. We text each other articles and ridiculous Facebook screen caps. We were members of the same frat at SDSU and have shared rides on our fair share of Vegas road trips.

Enter another world. The world of after hours after parties and psychedelic parties. DISORIENT’s Xylogen Qi provides that down the rabbit hole night with an immersive art experience for San Diego’s subculture.