City Week

Photo Shop

Clothing and art come together this weekend when Arizona photographer Taylor Graham reveals Hokey Couture, his latest collection of photography, at Zoè Boutique.

A 2003 UA grad, Graham named the exhibit for the twisted visual combinations each photo displays. "This exhibit is about hokey lifestyles," Graham says. "Photographs of objects or toys are juxtaposed with photographs of people in order to create a relationship between the two subjects. It's interesting how a hairstyle or a pair of culottes has the ability to change your impression of someone."

Graham's photography flows from his personal interests, as well as his intent to steer clear of the Ansel Adams' tradition of photography. "Every photographic style has its place," Graham says, "but I find that images with social commentary are stronger than images of national parks."

The twisted kitsch of Hokey Couture makes Graham particularly proud. He feels the power of photography is overwhelming in comparison to other forms of art. "I like that photography allows me to take an idea and turn it into a tangible image that I can pass on," Graham says. "Whether my ideas are asinine or serious, people are more apt to respond to an image rather than a monologue."

To see Graham's take on Hokey Couture, check out the opening reception for his exhibit this Saturday at Zo' Boutique. Finally, an event where wearing culottes will not be frowned upon! --M.P.

Child's Play

Randall Hicks is considered one of the leading authorities on adoption law. The attorney penned the widely read Adopting in America: How to Adopt Within One Year (now in its fourth edition) and has been featured on programs like The Today Show and Sally Jessy Raphael.

Now, Hicks will bring his adoption know-how to Tucson today--that's Thursday, the day this issue officially hits the streets--as he signs his new novel, The Baby Game, at Clues Unlimited. Not surprisingly, the mystery novel has an adoption angle. "I work in a very unique area of law," Hicks says, "and as a big mystery reader, I noticed adoption was an area unexplored in fiction."

The book tracks a young adoption attorney (write what you know) who arranges an adoption for his celebrity friends. Of course, things go astray when the baby is kidnapped; murder, suspense and intrigue follow. However, Hicks avoided the heavy-handed kidnapping themes of the Mel Gibson vehicle Ransom in favor of lighter, fuller emotional fare. "Actually, the book is very witty and wry," Hicks says, "with lots of bittersweet and emotional moments."

Aside from signing books, Hicks will also address the adoption questions that inevitably come up during his public appearances. Hicks openly welcomes all inquiring parents and cites his love for his work as an adoption attorney. "What could be better than helping create families? Nothing could be more rewarding than what I do as a lawyer."

To talk to Hicks about The Baby Game or adoption, check him out at Clues Unlimited today. According to Hicks, book signings are "a casual time just to chat with an author 1-on-1" and "actually a lot of fun." --M.P.

Led Kaapana-lin

Hawaii native Led Kaapana is described as a "slack key guitar and ukulele master." In other words, Kaapana is a talented guitarist who is also handy with a ukulele and is known for his "freeboard improvisations" (not to be confused with "'Freebird' impersonations"). He's also managed to impress and work with some big names, like Dolly Parton and Alison Krauss.

Led will bring his mastership of the guitar and ukulele, his impressive vocal range and charming sense of humor--not to mention a plethora of Polynesian dancers in full regalia--to Tucson this Saturday.

Kaapana has been making music professionally for almost 40 years. Over the course of those years, he has traveled the country and charmed audiences time and again with his easy-going music and attitude.

Aside from his excellent instrumental mastery, Led also has a set of pipes. Whether employing his stunning baritone or impressive leo ki`eki`e (falsetto), Led is sure to catch your ear.

To catch an evening of smooth melodies and tropical dancing, check Led out at the Berger Performing Arts Center. With any luck, Led's tropical vibe will cool down Tucson by a couple of degrees. If not, he owes us that cover of "Freebird." --M.P.

Never Forget

This Sunday, America will mark the fourth anniversary of the tragic Sept. 11 terror attacks. Sadly, this year's remembrance of that national tragedy comes on the heels of an even deadlier tragedy in New Orleans and the Gulf Coast.

There is no denying the impact Sept. 11 played--and still plays--in our lives. As Americans across the country remember those who died unjustly and/or courageously on that ill-fated day, Tucson will commemorate the event with a candlelight memorial.

The folks at Evergreen Mortuary, Cemetery and Crematory invite everyone to come to their candlelight memorial for the terrorist attacks of Sept. 11. The event will take place on the lawn of the funeral home and feature several guest speakers. Among the organizations involved in this year's remembrance are the Tucson Police Department, the American Legion, the Flowing Wells High School Choir and the Veterans of Foreign Wars.

Whether you lost loved ones in the terrorists attacks or would just like to pay your respects to those who were lost, this remembrance is one way to grieve, mourn and celebrate the lives of those lost.

The speakers and ceremony of remembrance will begin at 7 p.m., with refreshments served at 6:30 p.m. --M.P.