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While there's certainly more than a few funky little coffeeshops in the Southland where you can get your java on, how many of them can offer cool services like free headshot-worthy portraits from an up-and-coming photographer?
At Viento Y Agua in Long Beach, that's exactly what you'll be getting this weekend.
Local photographer and lecturer Mitchell Maher will be taking free photos of the Viento’s patrons all day on Sunday, May 6th. His style borrows heavily from legends such as Irving Penn, but his recent work has paid homage to 30’s Hollywood photographers George Hurrell and Horst P. Horst.
His only request is that you “dress interestingly” - check out his website for a better idea of what "interesting" might mean.
The Viento Y Agua coffeehouse is located near the Belmont Shore area in Long Beach, and offers an oasis of independent cool in the corporate coffeehouse desert. They have an eclectic menu of sandwiches and snacks, along with unique drinks like Mexican moka, yerba mate, horchata smoothies, and specialty sodas.
The shop also doubles as an art gallery and performance space, with colorful paintings by local artists adorning the walls, and laid-back open mic nights on Thursdays.
So come out to try the moka, and while you're at it, why not put on that lace-up black corset you bought from Victoria’s Secret during one of your sluttier college moments? Or try out that snazzy fedora and vest you bought for a steal on eBay? It's a rare chance to pretend you’re Marlene Dietrich or Lisa Fonssagrieves for a day. Those of you who aren't quite so keen on that sort of sartorial exhibitionism can take inspiration from these Z-boys pictured to the left, and come as you are.
Even without the free fun, Long Beach is always worth a trip, and hey, you can stop by Baja Fish Market on your way there.
All pictures by Mitchell Maher
www.mitchellmaher.org
Viento y Agua Coffeeshop
4007 E. 4th Street
Long Beach 90814
(562) 434-1182
