The first West Seattle Art Walk of 2013 takes place on Thursday, Jan. 10 from 6 to 9 p.m., with merchants across West Seattle exhibiting artwork and inviting the public inside for refreshments and visual surprises.

As organizers explain, “From Alki to Endolyne, the West Seattle Art Walk is brought to you by your local West Seattle merchants. Dozens of merchants in the West Seattle Junction, Alki Beach, Admiral District, Morgan Junction, Fauntleroy District and Delridge are displaying art and showcasing artists the second Thursday of EVERY month, 6-9pm!”

Included in the greater event, the Mind Unwind art gallery (2206A California Ave S.W.) will host a live performance by Canadian artist Brent Ray Fraser (a live show from Fraser was covered by the Herald in 2012) at 8 p.m. sharp, lasting 15 minutes. He will be adding to his “Gun Show” exhibit already on display.

“Mind Unwind is exploding into the New Year with a bang! Brent Ray Fraser is crossing the border from Vancouver, BC to Seattle…this time, he is “armed.” International Art Critics be warned….guns and hand grenades as you have never seen them before! Exhibit opens January 4th, 2013.”

Also on the Thursday event at the State Farm Insurance office of Brent Amacher is his very first “Pay What You Can Night” to kick off the New Year. All art items are available for purchase on a “Pay What You Can” basis. Photographer Brandee Paisano wants to give back to the community and allow folks a chance to purchase art on their own terms.

Brandee Paisano is a humanitarian and backpacker who recently moved to Seattle where she now resides. Her interest in culture, photography and travel started in her youth when she was first introduced to the Inupiat culture in Alaska, and later the Shoshone Paiute Tribes of Nevada. In 2000 she joined the US NAVY when she decided to add “a little more adventure” to her life. While traveling abroad with the military, the ups and downs of Navy life led Brandee to consider a career in Photojournalism. After returning to the private sector, she found herself inspired by the works of Lewis Hine, Robert Capa and James Nachtwey. The emotion of these photographers has served as inspiration, though Brandee has added her own unique twist. The romantic quality of film, old newspapers and print media are present in her images. When Brandee looks through the lens, she attempts to find that unique quality that only comes from the passage of time. Edgy, soft, and simple. This is the photography of Brandee Paisano. (see a photo below the story).

Brent will provide his famous homemade baked goods and refreshments during the event.