Authored by California Locos founder Dave Tourjé and published in Rome by Drago Publisher, California Locos Renaissance & Rebellion is a 432-page compendium documenting the artists, ideas, exhibitions, and cultural influences that have shaped one of Southern California’s most distinctive artistic movements. Richly illustrated with hundreds of artworks, archival photographs, exhibition documentation, and behind-the-scenes imagery, the book celebrates the creative legacy of its five members: Chaz Bojórquez, Dave Tourjé, John Van Hamersveld, Norton Wisdom, and Gary Wong.

California Locos Renaissance & Rebellion traces the LOCOS’ journey from its origins in Los Angeles to its emergence as an internationally recognized force. The book celebrates the intersection of fine art, graffiti, surf culture, skateboarding, punk rock, muralism and design, disciplines that have long influenced the California Locos’ artistic vision. More than a retrospective, it serves as both a visual archive and a cultural document.

The book features an extensive essay by art historian Michelle Deziel Hernandez, Riding the Wave of Rebellion—California Locos and the “Birth of Now,” which places the California Locos within the broader history of Los Angeles art. Her research examines the collective’s role in continuing the city’s artistic legacy while redefining what it means to be a California artist in the twenty-first century.

California Locos at the Renaissance & Rebellion book launch – click arrows to see image gallery.

“West Coast culture has always been appreciated in Europe, from the jazzers to Hendrix to punk rock and the avant-garde” observed Loco member Norton Wisdom, “so it looks like history will repeat for the Locos!”

The first 100 limited edition signed CALIFORNIA LOCOS books are available at EASTERN PROJECTS for $100 on a first come, first served basis at the June 17 launch.

Published in Italy and distributed internationally, California Locos Renaissance & Rebellion reflects the California Locos’ expanding global presence while connecting the artistic traditions of Los Angeles with audiences around the world. It reinforces the enduring influence of West Coast culture and its contribution to the international contemporary art landscape.

Beautifully produced as a premium hardcover edition, California Locos Renaissance & Rebellion stands as both a collector’s coffee table book and a lasting record of a movement that continues to shape contemporary art and culture.