While many artists focus on the darkness and depression of the Downtown Eastside, Jorge Campos’ colourful paintings are so stirring because they show the brighter and more rambunctious side of the neighbourhood, one that often gets lost in the sad portraits.

Megaphone traces the life of the 45-year-old artist in our latest issue: from escaping paramilitary death squads in El Salvador to battling his crack addiction in the Downtown Eastside.

Campos has done hundreds of watercolour portraits of people from the Downtown Eastside, each one with an honesty and vibrancy that makes them both instantly compelling and totally unique. And while many show the playful side of the neighbourhood, others highlight the soft beauty that lies beneath the gruffness.

In the issue, Megaphone also looks at:

HEATed Debate
Mayor Gregor Robertson's low-barrier shelters will close at the end of the month if the provincial purse zips shut.

Woodward's Woes
The W2 Media Arts Society fights to reclaim promised space in the historic Woodward's building revitalization.

Street Smarts
Formerly homeless 18-year-old Caitlin Glass gives some straight advice on how to thrive and survive on Vancouver's streets.

Counterfeit Calamity
Megaphone vendor Bob on the sad, corrupted and violent life of one-time Vancouver police constable Leonard Hogue.

Dog-Eat-Dog World
Frugal fusion food at Japadog and the Lion's Den Cafe ride out the recession with tasty treats.

The Revolution Will Not Be Motorized
Velo-City art exhibit explores Vancouver's love affair with the bicycle.

The Boys Are Back In Town
Nine reasons to grab a seat at Nat Bailey Stadium to watch the Vancouver Canadians hit the field for a fresh new season.