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Here are articles recently written about OutWest
New life in Old Town Newhall
February 27, 2010
Written by Staff of the SCV Independent
Photo by Tom Mendoza
On Thursday, February 18th, the western boutique store, OutWest Marketing in Old Town Newhall held its 6th art show in conjunction with Farmer’s Market.
There is a quaint, old-west feeling to
Originally started as a Western theme store, OutWest has become “a cultural center for the arts” according to owner, Bobbi Jean Bell. “There’s an unbelievable amount of talent in this community,” says
The arts movement is growing significantly in the community.
Many shoppers were checking out the merchandising booths, OutWest was packed with customers and lovers of the arts.
An art lover’s eyes will catch numerous elements of the arts in this store. Local photographer Frank Lozano displayed his fine works. His exhibit was filled with western images, local scenes, and simple images to beautiful landscapes, and photos from his travels from
Lozano volunteers for Three Angels Children Relief, an organization in
“It’s heartbreaking to see the places I’ve been to that have toppled because of the construction” says Lozano. He recalls with vivid memory of seeing “Fruits and vegetables sold in gutters” and also remembers “A young man taking a tin cup to get water out of a hole in the street.”
Although Lozano recalls many images of rampant poverty, he also remembers some positive images. “People are not in their homes, they’re not playing a PSP. They’re outside talking to their neighbors and waving hello.”
The activity in OutWest does not stop here. Laila Asgari, a local glass artist was featured. Beautiful fused glass pieces of western images. Originally an oil painter, Asgari explains that “I always wanted to work with stain glass because it’s a unique art form.” Asgari is a tall, cowgirl who was raised riding horses from age 5 and watching westerns as a child. This strong western influence comes to life in her art.
Purveyors of the old western goods were also present. Biskit Hatch-a leather artist showcased this old art form. Leather frames, belts, wallets, gun holsters and other pieces for sale.
The arts are growing in the community and
Starting in March, the art walk (hosted by OutWest Marketing) will be held on the first Thursday of each month at 5pm on Main Street (formerly San Fernando Road), Old Town Newhall.
OutWest Marketing is located on:
This article was posted on January 19, 2010
She first started as a volunteer at the then-named Gene Autry Museum after attending a Russian culture exhibit hosted at the museum. Eight years later she was thrilled to secure a full time position there. Over time, she earned multiple promotions, and was learning all the areas of running a museum and a business. And then it happened. Through restructuring and changes to the museum, her position and many others were eliminated.
Her eyes light up as she explains "If history has shown us anything, it's that you don't let your dreams die. Challenging times provide opportunity and sometimes you just need to go for it."
OutWest started out modestly as an online store in 2007. Two years later it grew and took on a physical location. Her store stands proudly on the Western Walk of Stars on Main Street in Old Town Newhall. The stars on the block are a mix of past and current western performers.
There is a strong sense of history in this part of town. A sense of a different time is a big part of Main Street. There are two live theatres across the street reminding us of a time when the only entertainment was live theatre. You can also hear the train of the Metro station, reminding us of a time when trains were a main form of transportation.
"We sit here in a very unique area-Old Town Newhall," says Bobbi, "The Valley has a long history and this is the right place to be-on the Western Walk of Stars.
Bobbi's dream is a culmination of visiting many museums as a child, and having worked 40 years in the retail industry for J.C. Penny, Gimbels, Nordstrom and other stores.
Her family moved often. While many children are nervous or frightened about relocating, Bobbi was fascinated with seeing different parts of United States. Connecticut, Massachusetts, Maine, and New York.
"My family was big museum goers," says Bobbi "I remember going to museums that had people in costume that spoke in the vernacular of the time period of their costume. We visited Sturbridge Village in Massachusetts almost every weekend and I fell in love with history." Art museums, natural history museums and other historical sites, Bobbi's family felt that it was important to bring a sense of culture and the arts for the children.
The first time one enters OutWest, it is like being transported back in time. There is also a distinct feel of a museum. A unique blend of culture and shopping. Bobbi brings to life the western purveyor of goods. The customer walks in, is always offered a cup of coffee and an ear that will listen. It's also a mom and pop store. Her husband of 28 years, Jim also shares a passion for all things west.
According to Bobbi, many people who walk into the store for the first time want to share their story with her. Families that have been in Santa Clarita since the time of the Gold Rush. According to Bobbi, many shoppers have described the store as like being in Santa Fe, New Mexico.
One man, coming in for the first time expressed his happiness to see a western-themed store in the valley. He explained that he just moved from Phoenix. His name-Joey Dillon, a western performer, who taught actor Josh Brolin how to quick draw for an upcoming movie. Kids were dazzled as Joey displayed his gun slinging expertise. Bobbi went in the back and realized he was on the cover of TruWest magazine and had him sign it.
I sat down at length with Bobbi. Phone calls were coming in. Local artists and artists across the country were calling in offering to bring their goods to OutWest. Bobbi explains she is approached often by local and distant musicians, artists, poets and authors. Shoppers and artists seem drawn to this unique piece of the west.
The walls are peppered with culture and history. Vivid and spectacular pieces of Native American paintings hang proudly on the walls. Western wear from top designers in the field are sold here.
Alan Michael, a top western clothing designer sells his clothing here. That's when I noticed a picture on Bobbi's desk. I asked Bobbi about it. Her top clothing designer Alan Michael handing former president George H.W. Bush a jacket to give to Barbara. Then Bobbi showed me a one-of-a-kind piece-a white leather jacket, with stars, and fringe that had an autograph in the back. It read George Bush (Bush 41).
There is another item that pops out. From the display window-A men's motorcycle jacket, that according to Bobbi has brought many people in who are fascinated with this unique piece of work. She describes it as a piece that shows the "myth and romance of the west" and "art you can wear." A black leather jacket bearing fine hand-crafted artwork. In the back of a jacket, a bison surrounded by fine hand-crafted images.
As a shopper, there is much to choose from all inspired by the west. A large collection of Men's and women's western wear, Native American art and jewelry, western poetry cds, western music, books, children's books, plush toys, home décor, art glass, leather roses, custom picture frames, toys and games, handmade pillows and throws, Navajo folk art, and much more.
OutWest is not just a store, but strives to be a cultural community center according to Bobbi. On a monthly or bi-monthly basis, OutWest offers local live music bands, poets and artists. There is an art walk the third Thursday of every month from 5p.m. to 9p.m.
"We are trying to learn what the people of our community want-What they're looking for, what they are hungry for," says Bobbi "We want the community to share with us, what they would like to see."
OutWest is currently helping in the relief efforts for the victims of the Haiti earthquake. From January 18th through the 23rd, the store is donating 10% of all profits to the Haiti relief effort. Also, local photographer Frank Lozano-a man who has taken many pictures of Haiti, is selling his pieces starting January 21st indefinitely with the full proceeds going to the earthquake victims.
OutWest is located at: 24265 Main Street, Old Town Newhall. They are open Monday-Friday from 10a.m.-7p.m. and Saturday from 10a.m.-6p.m. For more information, one may call: (661) 255-7087 or visit their website at: www.scvoutwest.com
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Ongoing Fundraising Efforts for Haiti's Earthquake victims and orphans are covered in this article by Michele Buttelman of The Signal newspaper:
mbuttelman@the-signal.com
661-259-1234 x590
Posted: Jan. 23, 2010 7:43 p.m.
POSTED Jan. 24, 2010 4:55 a.m.
I’ve been battling bronchitis for the better part of this past week, which means I’ve not been able to enjoy the deluge as much as I would like. I can’t wait to see how green our valley will become this spring after all this rain!
More SCV help for Haiti
Generous Santa Clarita citizens braved bad weather Thursday night and came out to Newhall’s Art Walk to view and purchase art donated by SCV artists to benefit Haiti’s Three Angels Children’s Relief. OutWest’s featured artist, fine art photographer Frank Lozano, donated all proceeds from the sale of his Haiti images to cause. Lozano is actively engaged with this nonprofit organization and dedicated to its mission. Through the efforts of Bob Hernandez and Jeff Barber of The ARTree Community Art Center, the artists who were invited to participate in the event which raised $1,300 included Ken Lubas, Olga Kaczmar, Evie Cook, Diane Bruckner, Laura Wambsgans, Jane Mick, Laurie Morgan, Leland R. Thomas, R. Gregg Miller, Mel Carll, Laura Schuetze, Teresa Bailey, Jackie Sofen, Yolanda Menchaca, Claudette Dunn, Carrie Gordon and Bob Hernandez. Fundraising efforts continue through Thursday. Visit the Thursday Art Walk in downtown Newhall between 5 and 9 p.m. Once again, local artists will generously offer their works for sale with all proceeds going directly to Three Angels Children’s Relief. In addition, OutWest will donate 10 percent of all online and in-store sales now through Thursday. Donate $15 or more and pick up a CD from local Western singer/songwriter John Bergstrom. OutWest, at 24265 Main St., to view Lozano’s art exhibition and to donate to the relief effort. For more information and store hours call 661.255.7087 or visit www.scvoutwest.com
Frank Lozano and Artisan 'Pards Raise Funds
Three Angels Children's Relief
January 21, 5:00 -9:00 PM
Main Street, Old Town Newhall
OutWest's Featured Artist
Fine Art Photographer Frank Lozano
OutWest is honored to showcase Frank's Fine Art Photography. He sees the world through a unique lens capturing exquisite beauty in the mundane. Opportunities have taken Frank to the far corners of the world...as well as right here at home...travel with him and see the familiar in unexpected ways.
We guarantee that you will be stunned, will chuckle and chortle, will exclaim "where's that?," and LOL. Come enjoy color, shape, texture, and our world through Frank Lozano's unique vision.
Many of our partner artisans and Western musician friends are donating items for silent auction, raffle, purchase, or as "thank you " for your donation to Three Angels Children's Relief.
Third Thursdays Art Walk is a free self guided art walk down Main Street in the Arts District of Old Town Newhall anchored by The Canyon Theater Guild and the Repertory East Playhouse. This once monthly Art Walk is both reactive and interactive. One can look and appreciate art, purchase art or participate in art. The Art Tree presents a fun, interactive hands-on art activity for the whole family to enjoy. This event is free for all from spectator to participant. Join us in promoting and strengthening the arts community in Santa Clarita.
Shop the Farmer's Market from 3:00 - 7:00 PM
Farmer's Market and Art Walk, Rain or Shine!
All artists are indoors - don't let the rain keep you away from a good time!
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