Art & Culture

Well-known Santa Cruz artist in SJB on Saturday

Vertigo will host an exhibition by Nine60Xray as part of a monthly series called "First Saturdays"
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In its second installment of a monthly-series called “First Saturdays,” Vertigo Coffee Roasters of San Juan Bautista will host an exhibit by well-known Santa Cruz artist Nine60Xray on Saturday, Feb. 4. The event is scheduled from 4-9 p.m..

In an email to BenitoLink, Nine60Xray explained that his pattern work, consisting largely of “hieroglyphics with a less aggressive and more ‘funky’ vibe,” reflects his evolution as an artist. 

And he draws inspiration from one’s ability to overcome life’s darker moments.

Resourceful defines Nine60Xray’s style, too. Often “household materials” serve as a his palette when creating on canvas, designing murals, or customizing the exterior of an R.V.

His work has been prominently displayed in Central Coast and Bay Area art galleries, as well as showcased in several Santa Cruz coffee shops.

When the opportunity came to extend his reach into San Benito County, the artist said he “didn’t want to refuse.”

In her email to BenitoLink, Vertigo barista and curator of the “First Saturdays” series, Jarae Turner, explained that at first glance Nine60Xray’s work “may seem tribal, mechanical, a bit overwhelming.” But she added that if one looks deeper at the intricate patterns and textures, including the use of metallics, the work begins to captivate one’s attention and interest.    

The title of this Saturday’s exhibit is: “Consequences.” The collection includes works that “are all a product of life changing events” that define the human experience, especially those centered on relationships of “finding new friends” and “leaving old friends,” said Nine60Xray in his email.

Attendees to this weekend’s event will have the opportunity to browse Nine60Xray’s work over the last year and a half, chat with him, and purchase his work, including screen prints and buttons.

To learn more about Nine60Xray visit his website.

For more information about the "First Saturdays" series, contact:
Vertigo Coffee Roasters
81 4th St.
San Juan Bautista
(831) 623-9533

Frank Pérez

I’m a lifelong resident of San Benito County. I reside in Hollister with my wife, Brenda. For over two decades, I've been a faculty member at San Benito High School, where I teach world history, Mexican-American history, and Ethnic Studies. I've been reporting for BenitoLink since 2015. My passion is delving deeper into the nuances of the local, historical record, while including lesser-known stories of our past. My hope is that county residents will have a greater appreciation for the diversity and complexity of San Benito County, realizing that its uniqueness depends upon our responsibility as its stewards.