In an attempt to pick up blogging again, I have created a new blog. We'll see how long it lasts...
http://www.lovejellyfishlove.blogspot.com
Yeah. Here we go.
9.21.2010
1.15.2010
9.04.2009
New blog...
So, I have been sucking at this blog...mostly because it requires some deep thought and amount of energy. I have chosen to dedicate my time to a blog easier to maintain--strictly because it mostly comes from my brain/Wikipedia/Google-Image. Hope you like it and continue to follow me on this ridiculous journery/blogging-career.
Welcome to Alarm Clock Optional.
Welcome to Alarm Clock Optional.
3.01.2009
Business
If you haven't noticed, I change the way this blog looks more than I update it. I guess it's my curse of wanting one thing to be perfect (or near-perfect) before I can move on to some other task. This is not the way I operate in all facets of my life, but ever since I've been introduced to online-journaling/blogging/whatever I have been unable to achieve the exact look I want for my chosen outlet and, because of that, I have never been a reliable writer.
This is me trying to overcome the need for the perfect layout-color sheme-header and just write instead. We'll see how long this lasts.
So, I've been quite busy with my internship and socializing this semester. Notice how I did not say classes. This omission was intentional. I only have 3 classes this semester: Issues in Contemporary Art: Installation and Environment, Issues in 20th Century Art: Purity in Abstraction, and my favorite: French for Reading. It is sad that my favorite class is my nonsense French class instead of my 2 art history classes and the only reason French wins out is because the teacher has us play games, gives us prizes and brings in candy and snacks. (Yes, I'm back in elementary school and I love it.)
The reasons why I dislike or disfavor the other classes is not important. What is important is my general ambivalence to the whole academic semester. I don't know if it's because it's Spring semester and I'm still wiped out from Fall...or if it's the classes themselves...or if it's because I love my internship so much that I just don't want to put the effort into school...or I just realized last semester that I can get away with a lot less work than I thought. No matter the reasoning, the ambivalence is not good, it needs to stop, and I'm at a loss as to how I can stop it.
Anyhoo, back to what I am excelling at! (Disregard the negative, focus on the positive!)
Socializing! This semester has been great in that I have been able to hang out with my fellow MA students a lot more and we've been able to do lots of fun things. Last semester, I think I went to the movies once with a fellow classmate and maybe went for a drink once or twice...THIS semester is a different story. Since the end of January I have done like 10 times that amount and it's been fantastic. This is the part where I bore you with my personal life...bear with me:
1. K-Rae's birthday party where her boyfriend Justin made fabulous hors d'oeuvres. My first experience with Guitar Hero (the band edition).
2. Brunch at a first-semester professor's house in the Upper East Side. Great apartment, company and crepes! Too bad I was not feeling the copious amounts of wine they were supplying due to my abundance of alcohol the night prior.
3. First NYC gay club experience at Mr. Black. The atmosphere was amazing (chandeliers the size of my bedroom), the music was great, bartenders were cute (got a gay bartender to give me, a girl, a free drink: Tequila Flower!), AND the one, the only Amanda Lepore was there. I have included a picture so you can see her in all her glory. And yes, we took pictures with her, and yes, she looks plastic in them.
4. Went and saw Coraline 3-D, which was a lot scarier than I was expecting and truly amazing for cinematography and graphic reasons. I highly recommend it even though it's no longer playing in 3-D. (And yes, I do feel slightly wrong posting a picture of Coraline next to Amanda Lepore--hey, art is art.)
Retrieved from Cinetopia Website
5. Have had many gatherings at my lovely abode (including K-Rae's weekly sleepovers) where wonderful discussions, various televisions shows, yummy cuisine, and various alcoholic beverages, have been plentiful.
6. Went to the opening of the EFA's show "Post Memory: Makeshift Memorials in Contemporary Art," which I thought was a wonderful, cohesive and well-executed show on just what the title suggests--makeshift memorials. There were memorials for persons ranging from the Native Americans to American soldiers in Iraq to insane asylum patients to Civil Rights movement leaders/activists etc. I want to do a whole post on this show so get ready for more on this.
Postcard Image, retrieved from EFA Website
This is me trying to overcome the need for the perfect layout-color sheme-header and just write instead. We'll see how long this lasts.
So, I've been quite busy with my internship and socializing this semester. Notice how I did not say classes. This omission was intentional. I only have 3 classes this semester: Issues in Contemporary Art: Installation and Environment, Issues in 20th Century Art: Purity in Abstraction, and my favorite: French for Reading. It is sad that my favorite class is my nonsense French class instead of my 2 art history classes and the only reason French wins out is because the teacher has us play games, gives us prizes and brings in candy and snacks. (Yes, I'm back in elementary school and I love it.)
The reasons why I dislike or disfavor the other classes is not important. What is important is my general ambivalence to the whole academic semester. I don't know if it's because it's Spring semester and I'm still wiped out from Fall...or if it's the classes themselves...or if it's because I love my internship so much that I just don't want to put the effort into school...or I just realized last semester that I can get away with a lot less work than I thought. No matter the reasoning, the ambivalence is not good, it needs to stop, and I'm at a loss as to how I can stop it.
Anyhoo, back to what I am excelling at! (Disregard the negative, focus on the positive!)
Socializing! This semester has been great in that I have been able to hang out with my fellow MA students a lot more and we've been able to do lots of fun things. Last semester, I think I went to the movies once with a fellow classmate and maybe went for a drink once or twice...THIS semester is a different story. Since the end of January I have done like 10 times that amount and it's been fantastic. This is the part where I bore you with my personal life...bear with me:
1. K-Rae's birthday party where her boyfriend Justin made fabulous hors d'oeuvres. My first experience with Guitar Hero (the band edition).
2. Brunch at a first-semester professor's house in the Upper East Side. Great apartment, company and crepes! Too bad I was not feeling the copious amounts of wine they were supplying due to my abundance of alcohol the night prior.
3. First NYC gay club experience at Mr. Black. The atmosphere was amazing (chandeliers the size of my bedroom), the music was great, bartenders were cute (got a gay bartender to give me, a girl, a free drink: Tequila Flower!), AND the one, the only Amanda Lepore was there. I have included a picture so you can see her in all her glory. And yes, we took pictures with her, and yes, she looks plastic in them.
4. Went and saw Coraline 3-D, which was a lot scarier than I was expecting and truly amazing for cinematography and graphic reasons. I highly recommend it even though it's no longer playing in 3-D. (And yes, I do feel slightly wrong posting a picture of Coraline next to Amanda Lepore--hey, art is art.)
Retrieved from Cinetopia Website6. Went to the opening of the EFA's show "Post Memory: Makeshift Memorials in Contemporary Art," which I thought was a wonderful, cohesive and well-executed show on just what the title suggests--makeshift memorials. There were memorials for persons ranging from the Native Americans to American soldiers in Iraq to insane asylum patients to Civil Rights movement leaders/activists etc. I want to do a whole post on this show so get ready for more on this.
Postcard Image, retrieved from EFA Website7. Just this past Thursday, Miles, K-Rae and I had high hopes of seeing the Shepard Fairey Lecture on Art and the Economy at the New York Public Library, but I guess once you make a campaign poster famous tickets to your lectures are bound to sell out. And that they did. So, instead, us 3 ladies decided to have a cultural experience at a wonderful establishment called 1-2-3 Burgers-Shot-Beer and yes, it is as wonderful as it sounds. If you're ever in NY on a budget, I highly recommend it. Next cheap-eats stop is Rudy's, where they have $7 pitchers and FREE hot dogs.
8. So after our fantastic time at 1-2-3, we decided to go to the Modern for one drink. It is super swanky and way too rich for our tastes but K-Rae's boyfriend works there so we thought we'd (meaning Miles and I) would at least check it out once. For those of you unfamiliar with the Modern, it is the restaurant directly next to the MoMA with the fun yarn/neon art piece in the window. Well, one drink (which for me was a Crabapple martini--so delicious) turned into 2 drinks and 3 desserts (courtesy of Justin, K-Rae's boyfriend). I was able to snap a photo with my phone, so the quality isn't great, but each dessert was to die for. Sour apple and basil sorbet with fresh blueberries and raspberries, beignets (I have linked this to the dictionary.com because I had no idea what they were until Thursday--such a sophisticted pallete) with 3 dipping options: lemon curd, maple ice cream, and/or warm caramel, AND pistachio ice gream over chocolate graham cracker covered in melted dark chocolate with dark chocoalte flakes. Yes, I died and went to heaven. And when I returned to Earth, K-Rae, Justin and I went back to drinking cheap beer and playing Rock Band.
9. Yesterday, Saturday, I thought I was going to lounge around the house all day until Facebook-stalking paid off. Miles was off to see 2 movies and I wanted in! It just so happened that she was seeing 2 movies I've been dying to see: Milk and The Reader.
We went to a little theater in Port Jefferson and made a day of it. From 12:55pm to 6pm, we were captives of cinema (and only for $5! Yes, some sneaky Double Feature action did take place). Both of these movies were phenomenal and both Kate Winslet and Sean Penn deserved their Oscar wins. I didn't anticipate a common theme between these films--with one being about an illiterate female Nazi that has an affair with a 15-year-old boy and the other being about a 40-something-year-old gay man trying to make a difference in the Gay Rights movement of the 1970s in San Fran--but there was. In both films, the audience was made to feel compassion--for the persecuted and the persecutor. Compassion is a very difficult trait to come by, which is perhaps why it is such a valued characteristic, but I believe to practice compassion is to be that much closer to love and respect--and what can be wrong about a lil love and respect. [Steps off soap box]
So, as you can see, I have been busy. Busy with nothing but fun activities with some truly awesome people. Hopefully now it is clear just how much I am avoiding school and all work associated with it.
To conclude my longest, most personal entry to date, I shall announce that in under a week I will get to see Mark (my fiance, for those of you just joining us)! And in that time I plan to write a review/summary of the EFA's Post Memory show, do another AYSK and perhaps one more post if I am so moved. 2-3 posts in a week shouldn't be that hard, but knowing me, we'll just have to wait and see!
Pip pip cheerio!
8. So after our fantastic time at 1-2-3, we decided to go to the Modern for one drink. It is super swanky and way too rich for our tastes but K-Rae's boyfriend works there so we thought we'd (meaning Miles and I) would at least check it out once. For those of you unfamiliar with the Modern, it is the restaurant directly next to the MoMA with the fun yarn/neon art piece in the window. Well, one drink (which for me was a Crabapple martini--so delicious) turned into 2 drinks and 3 desserts (courtesy of Justin, K-Rae's boyfriend). I was able to snap a photo with my phone, so the quality isn't great, but each dessert was to die for. Sour apple and basil sorbet with fresh blueberries and raspberries, beignets (I have linked this to the dictionary.com because I had no idea what they were until Thursday--such a sophisticted pallete) with 3 dipping options: lemon curd, maple ice cream, and/or warm caramel, AND pistachio ice gream over chocolate graham cracker covered in melted dark chocolate with dark chocoalte flakes. Yes, I died and went to heaven. And when I returned to Earth, K-Rae, Justin and I went back to drinking cheap beer and playing Rock Band.
9. Yesterday, Saturday, I thought I was going to lounge around the house all day until Facebook-stalking paid off. Miles was off to see 2 movies and I wanted in! It just so happened that she was seeing 2 movies I've been dying to see: Milk and The Reader.
We went to a little theater in Port Jefferson and made a day of it. From 12:55pm to 6pm, we were captives of cinema (and only for $5! Yes, some sneaky Double Feature action did take place). Both of these movies were phenomenal and both Kate Winslet and Sean Penn deserved their Oscar wins. I didn't anticipate a common theme between these films--with one being about an illiterate female Nazi that has an affair with a 15-year-old boy and the other being about a 40-something-year-old gay man trying to make a difference in the Gay Rights movement of the 1970s in San Fran--but there was. In both films, the audience was made to feel compassion--for the persecuted and the persecutor. Compassion is a very difficult trait to come by, which is perhaps why it is such a valued characteristic, but I believe to practice compassion is to be that much closer to love and respect--and what can be wrong about a lil love and respect. [Steps off soap box]
So, as you can see, I have been busy. Busy with nothing but fun activities with some truly awesome people. Hopefully now it is clear just how much I am avoiding school and all work associated with it.
To conclude my longest, most personal entry to date, I shall announce that in under a week I will get to see Mark (my fiance, for those of you just joining us)! And in that time I plan to write a review/summary of the EFA's Post Memory show, do another AYSK and perhaps one more post if I am so moved. 2-3 posts in a week shouldn't be that hard, but knowing me, we'll just have to wait and see!
Pip pip cheerio!
2.15.2009
WOW
Seriously...WOW.
Watch this. Unbelievable. This is my minor post for this evening. Tomorrow, expect a longer, more verbal post on my part. I will be highlighting a particular gallery that houses a few artists I particularly love.
Richard Wilson's Rotating Wall (2007), described as:
“The most daring piece of public art ever commissioned in the UK, Turning the Place Over is artist Richard Wilson’s most radical intervention into architecture to date, turning a building in Liverpool’s city centre literally inside out. One of Wilson’s very rare temporary works, Turning the Place Over colonises Cross Keys House, Moorfields. It is on a light sensor and will run during daylight hours.
Co-commissioned by the Liverpool Culture Company and Liverpool Biennial, co-funded by the Northwest Regional Development Agency and The Northern Way, and facilitated by Liverpool Vision, the project is a stunning trailblazer for Liverpool’s Year as European Capital of Culture 2008, and the jewel in the crown of the Culture Company’s public art programme.”
I found this gem of an art piece at my new favorite website, The Wooster Collective. Check it out if you get the chance.
Again. Wow. This is brilliant.
Watch this. Unbelievable. This is my minor post for this evening. Tomorrow, expect a longer, more verbal post on my part. I will be highlighting a particular gallery that houses a few artists I particularly love.
Richard Wilson's Rotating Wall (2007), described as:
“The most daring piece of public art ever commissioned in the UK, Turning the Place Over is artist Richard Wilson’s most radical intervention into architecture to date, turning a building in Liverpool’s city centre literally inside out. One of Wilson’s very rare temporary works, Turning the Place Over colonises Cross Keys House, Moorfields. It is on a light sensor and will run during daylight hours.
Co-commissioned by the Liverpool Culture Company and Liverpool Biennial, co-funded by the Northwest Regional Development Agency and The Northern Way, and facilitated by Liverpool Vision, the project is a stunning trailblazer for Liverpool’s Year as European Capital of Culture 2008, and the jewel in the crown of the Culture Company’s public art programme.”
I found this gem of an art piece at my new favorite website, The Wooster Collective. Check it out if you get the chance.
Again. Wow. This is brilliant.
Promise
I haven't updated in a while...as usual. But, I promise to update tomorrow! Yay for President's Day and my 3-day weekend!
See you soon!
See you soon!
2.01.2009
AYSK Numero Cinco
So I'm finally getting around to this...
Lots has been happening lately--for example:
1. I started my internship at the Elizabeth Foundation for the Arts! It's great! I could not have asked for a better experience thus far. This past week, most of my time was spent on the materials for membership to the studio program. Explaining how the studio program works would take an entire post, and despite the clerical aspects of the project, it was really great to work on something that I care about.
2. Classes started. Not too enthusiastic about any of my classes yet, but fingers crossed that they get better.
3. Fun bonding with my fellow classmates. Kelly Rae's sort-of-birthday party was last night and it was a doozy. This morning was also quite comical (for reasons I will spare sharing). Today, Professor Rubin also had us over for brunch, which was also a good time. Not a very relaxing or restful weekend but who needs those! (Oh right, the girl with the insane schedule this semester.)
So now that I have caught you all up on why I'm blog-slacking, here is the next installment of the "Artists You Should Know" series. Without further ado...
AYSK #5:
ALYSON SHOTZ
Mini-Bio: BFA at good ole RISD. MFA at University of Washington-Seattle. She doesn't have a handy Wikipedia page providing me with access to the essential tidbits of her life, so here is a nice cutesy summary of her artistic choices:
A veteran of the New York art world, Alyson Shotz is known internationally for works of art that address space, light, and perception. Her interest in environmental issues and topology—a branch of mathematics concerned with the properties of geometric forms that remain constant despite transformation—is also evident in her artworks.
What kind of art? Sculpture bordering on industrial or architectural design.
Examples of work:
The Shape of Things, 2004 (image from 2007 Guggenheim show)
In case you're curious, this is made of cut plastic Fresnel lens sheets and staples. See Close up...
Allusion of Gravity, 2005
Made of clear glass beads and steel wire.
What I like most about Shotz's work is that she uses pretty standard materials and manages to create pieces that are both beautiful and reflective. It is unique and simple while also being very complex and though-provoking. I hope you feel the same about her work or that you at least are a little more enlightened as far as contemporary sculpture is concerned.
For more images and information on Alyson Shotz, visit her page with the Derek Eller Gallery.
Well I'm off to bed--early start tomorrow--yay for the commuting to the city! Goodnight!
Lots has been happening lately--for example:
1. I started my internship at the Elizabeth Foundation for the Arts! It's great! I could not have asked for a better experience thus far. This past week, most of my time was spent on the materials for membership to the studio program. Explaining how the studio program works would take an entire post, and despite the clerical aspects of the project, it was really great to work on something that I care about.
2. Classes started. Not too enthusiastic about any of my classes yet, but fingers crossed that they get better.
3. Fun bonding with my fellow classmates. Kelly Rae's sort-of-birthday party was last night and it was a doozy. This morning was also quite comical (for reasons I will spare sharing). Today, Professor Rubin also had us over for brunch, which was also a good time. Not a very relaxing or restful weekend but who needs those! (Oh right, the girl with the insane schedule this semester.)
So now that I have caught you all up on why I'm blog-slacking, here is the next installment of the "Artists You Should Know" series. Without further ado...
AYSK #5:
ALYSON SHOTZ
Mini-Bio: BFA at good ole RISD. MFA at University of Washington-Seattle. She doesn't have a handy Wikipedia page providing me with access to the essential tidbits of her life, so here is a nice cutesy summary of her artistic choices:
A veteran of the New York art world, Alyson Shotz is known internationally for works of art that address space, light, and perception. Her interest in environmental issues and topology—a branch of mathematics concerned with the properties of geometric forms that remain constant despite transformation—is also evident in her artworks.
What kind of art? Sculpture bordering on industrial or architectural design.
Examples of work:
The Shape of Things, 2004 (image from 2007 Guggenheim show)
In case you're curious, this is made of cut plastic Fresnel lens sheets and staples. See Close up...
(View of original installation for The Shape of Things)
The Close up.
Mirror Fence, 2003
Made of acrylic, wood, aluminum, hardware.
Made of acrylic, wood, aluminum, hardware.
Folding Space, 2004
Made of cut plastic, staples.
Made of cut plastic, staples.
Allusion of Gravity, 2005
Made of clear glass beads and steel wire.
What I like most about Shotz's work is that she uses pretty standard materials and manages to create pieces that are both beautiful and reflective. It is unique and simple while also being very complex and though-provoking. I hope you feel the same about her work or that you at least are a little more enlightened as far as contemporary sculpture is concerned.
For more images and information on Alyson Shotz, visit her page with the Derek Eller Gallery.
Well I'm off to bed--early start tomorrow--yay for the commuting to the city! Goodnight!
1.16.2009
Dance, and Life, as Art
Found this on Perez Hilton (which I am sad to admit I read), but it is worthwhile for the occasional good piece of information, like the following...
I wish more things like this happened in my life, or life in general. This is the art I care about. Art that makes people feel good...Art that is simple...Art that is just done for the fun of it. (And yes, I am completely disregarding that it is a T-Mobile commercial.)
Enjoy!
I wish more things like this happened in my life, or life in general. This is the art I care about. Art that makes people feel good...Art that is simple...Art that is just done for the fun of it. (And yes, I am completely disregarding that it is a T-Mobile commercial.)
Enjoy!
1.14.2009
NYSK: Women
It's been far too long since I updated. The holidays getcha every time! Oh, and my pesky 19th century art paper! But, now all those things are done and I am free to blog and do other things that usually escape my attention when there is holiday food to be eaten and obnoxious papers to finish.
So, as promised, here is my list of females that I personally know and like (both personality-wise and artistically) who you should know. And the Nobodies (again, I use this term strictly as a joke and contrast to the AYSK series--they are all Somebodies) are...
1. Kristina Sherk. I had the pleasure of attending Elon University with Kristi. We first met while working on a project called Periclean Scholars, so her artistic talents were unbeknownst to me for quite a while. BUT, after seeing her work, I can say she's got the goods. She has been out of college less than 2 years and has already taken the professional photography world by storm! Based in DC, Kristi makes a living taking headshots and shooting weddings and corporate events, but it is her editorial/artistic work that I find particularly stunning. Her website is filled with wonderful images, and I recommend checking all of it out--especially the travel photograph section! Oh, and don't forget to check out her amazing retouching skills here.
2. Meredith Robinson. Now, I don't know Meredith very well. I actually knew her work before I knew her. A number of times she has had her work displayed in the Elon Art Building and, being very fond of my Alma Mater (the art building in particular), I had perused her work while wandering the halls. After meeting her twice now--both times with varying levels of intoxication--I can say she is not only a talented artist but a pretty cool chick as well. My personal favorite is the painting entitled "Ophelia."
3. Casey Catelli. Another Elon student that I met far too late in the game. I had actually heard the name Casey Catelli through Mark, but never had the privilege of putting a face to that name until recently. I loved her work when I saw it displayed in the Elon gallery, but I did not know the amount of work she had until looking at her website and blog. Her photographs are brilliant and simple and if you sort her photos by "Most Favorites" you will see some truly tremendous images.
4. Amanda Jensen. Mixing it up a little...gotta give love to someone making something other than what those pesky intellectuals would call "Fine Art." I met Amanda at good ole Appel Farm (where there are many, many other talented artists) where she was the head of Technical Theater. Little did I know, that in her spare time she makes really great, crafty items. Scarves, reusable hot-drink-sleeves, hats, and my personal favorite--cowls, are all available for your viewing pleasure and purchase at her Etsy shop, which is easily accessible from her blog. Who said great art cannot be functional?
I have so many taleneted friends that I have to give shout-outs to Maria Mattson (painter/drawer), Antea Roberts (sculptor/ceramicist), Miranda Pare (bad-ass installation artist among other things I'm sure), Bogna Kowalska (unbelievable video artist and graphic designer), Molly Lare (too many artistic talents to name), Joanna Patterson (artist a la carte, as well) and all my other female artist friends, whose artworks are not as easily linkable. (Websites and blogs people, not Facebook albums and MySpace pages!)
And just to add something for your immediate viewing pleasure... "The Beckoning of Lovely" is an amazing video that my friend Rachel introduced our Methodologies class too during her presenation on viral/video/internet art. Please watch. It will make your day a million times better.
Well, that is all for now. Time for a grilled cheese and tomato soup to make this blustery cold day less blustery and less cold. Now is the part where I promise to post more often...
So, as promised, here is my list of females that I personally know and like (both personality-wise and artistically) who you should know. And the Nobodies (again, I use this term strictly as a joke and contrast to the AYSK series--they are all Somebodies) are...
1. Kristina Sherk. I had the pleasure of attending Elon University with Kristi. We first met while working on a project called Periclean Scholars, so her artistic talents were unbeknownst to me for quite a while. BUT, after seeing her work, I can say she's got the goods. She has been out of college less than 2 years and has already taken the professional photography world by storm! Based in DC, Kristi makes a living taking headshots and shooting weddings and corporate events, but it is her editorial/artistic work that I find particularly stunning. Her website is filled with wonderful images, and I recommend checking all of it out--especially the travel photograph section! Oh, and don't forget to check out her amazing retouching skills here.
2. Meredith Robinson. Now, I don't know Meredith very well. I actually knew her work before I knew her. A number of times she has had her work displayed in the Elon Art Building and, being very fond of my Alma Mater (the art building in particular), I had perused her work while wandering the halls. After meeting her twice now--both times with varying levels of intoxication--I can say she is not only a talented artist but a pretty cool chick as well. My personal favorite is the painting entitled "Ophelia."
3. Casey Catelli. Another Elon student that I met far too late in the game. I had actually heard the name Casey Catelli through Mark, but never had the privilege of putting a face to that name until recently. I loved her work when I saw it displayed in the Elon gallery, but I did not know the amount of work she had until looking at her website and blog. Her photographs are brilliant and simple and if you sort her photos by "Most Favorites" you will see some truly tremendous images.
4. Amanda Jensen. Mixing it up a little...gotta give love to someone making something other than what those pesky intellectuals would call "Fine Art." I met Amanda at good ole Appel Farm (where there are many, many other talented artists) where she was the head of Technical Theater. Little did I know, that in her spare time she makes really great, crafty items. Scarves, reusable hot-drink-sleeves, hats, and my personal favorite--cowls, are all available for your viewing pleasure and purchase at her Etsy shop, which is easily accessible from her blog. Who said great art cannot be functional?
I have so many taleneted friends that I have to give shout-outs to Maria Mattson (painter/drawer), Antea Roberts (sculptor/ceramicist), Miranda Pare (bad-ass installation artist among other things I'm sure), Bogna Kowalska (unbelievable video artist and graphic designer), Molly Lare (too many artistic talents to name), Joanna Patterson (artist a la carte, as well) and all my other female artist friends, whose artworks are not as easily linkable. (Websites and blogs people, not Facebook albums and MySpace pages!)
And just to add something for your immediate viewing pleasure... "The Beckoning of Lovely" is an amazing video that my friend Rachel introduced our Methodologies class too during her presenation on viral/video/internet art. Please watch. It will make your day a million times better.
Well, that is all for now. Time for a grilled cheese and tomato soup to make this blustery cold day less blustery and less cold. Now is the part where I promise to post more often...
12.20.2008
Mini-Post
The semester is over! (Somewhat.) I still have a paper due Monday and another due January 15--but I am off Long Island until January 26 and that makes me happy as a clam. (Weird saying, by the way...etymology?)
Anyhoo...exciting news since last post:
1. Got an A as my first semester grade of graduate school!
2. Got an internship for the Spring at the Elizabeth Foundation for the Arts.
3. Got accepted into my first conference!!!
With all that happening I still had time to see one of the best movies I've seen in a very long time.
I highly recommend "Synecdoche, New York" to anyone and everyone...but be prepared to think about it and life and love and everything way more than you'd probably like.
Also, from "Synecdoche, New York" comes one of my new favorite songs (maybe of all time). "Little Person"--sung by Deanna Storey (who is NOWHERE), written by Jon Brion (who has written scores and music for a lot of great films and personal favorites), and Charlie Kaufman (who is Charlie Kaufman. Haha.) I have no clue how to upload a song on here (instructions welcome in comments), but if you search for it on www.elbo.ws (my favorite music blog aggregator) you can surely find it.
Phew...a lot of parentheses.
Well, I'm off to wake up Mark so we can get on the road to Lil Rhody! Whoop whoop! Blog post on female artists coming soon...very soon.
Anyhoo...exciting news since last post:
1. Got an A as my first semester grade of graduate school!
2. Got an internship for the Spring at the Elizabeth Foundation for the Arts.
3. Got accepted into my first conference!!!
With all that happening I still had time to see one of the best movies I've seen in a very long time.
I highly recommend "Synecdoche, New York" to anyone and everyone...but be prepared to think about it and life and love and everything way more than you'd probably like.
Also, from "Synecdoche, New York" comes one of my new favorite songs (maybe of all time). "Little Person"--sung by Deanna Storey (who is NOWHERE), written by Jon Brion (who has written scores and music for a lot of great films and personal favorites), and Charlie Kaufman (who is Charlie Kaufman. Haha.) I have no clue how to upload a song on here (instructions welcome in comments), but if you search for it on www.elbo.ws (my favorite music blog aggregator) you can surely find it.
Phew...a lot of parentheses.
Well, I'm off to wake up Mark so we can get on the road to Lil Rhody! Whoop whoop! Blog post on female artists coming soon...very soon.
12.03.2008
Neglectful Parent
Yet again, it has been too long between posts. Hopefully, after this semester is over I will be able to dedicate more time to this blog, art-making of my own, and general enjoyment-having. Until then, all of my time and brainpower is reserved for papers and presentations on Performance Art and Janine Antoni, Hans Sedlmayr's Theories on Art, and Baudelaire's Theories on the Constructive Imagination. If that doesn't spell G-O-O-D-T-I-M-E-S I just don't know what does!
To make up for the fact that I am many AYSK's behind, I am going to provide links to blogs/websites of some of my male friends that make art and generally rock. (Don't worry...female edition to follow!) They are out there, living in the world, and making damn sure they do what they love--and for that, I have to give them credit and praise. So here goes...a slight deviation from the usual formula...but the Artists (and People) You Should Know:
1. Mark Jay Brewin Jr. Yes, my fiance, BUT also, an incredible artist. Although he is currently getting his MFA in Creative Writing--poetry, specifically--he is very talented in many other art forms and mediums. His work focuses on found objects, memory, constructing narrative, and nostalgia. If you only have time for one work, I suggest the Woodrow Jefferson Project.
2. Andrew Spears. When I first met Mr. Spears he had a fro and orange sneakers. Now, he has a beard and dinosaur-footsie pajamas. A phenomenal artist that is constantly thinking about his next project even when serving up brews and booze in Greensboro, NC. He does not restrict himself to one medium and has created exceptional photographic, digital, and installation work. My favorite work of Spears is an installation entitled "Reaction."
3. M. Spencer Johnson. When one thinks of contemporary art--what's hip and new--one rarely thinks of ceramics/sculpture. However, this bike-enthusiast works primarily in the medium of ceramics and does a fantastic job of creating different, interesting, and beautiful pieces. He challenges those nincumpoops (that's right, I said it...nincumpoops!) that say ceramics is strictly functional and out-dated by incorporating unique elements into the materials he uses. His "Ashes to Ashes" series is a great example of this.
4. Andrew Jonathan Giles. I had the pleasure of working with Andrew at camp this past summer and he is wonderful photographer, teacher, painter, artist, and human being. Originally from Texas, he now lives and creates in Denver, CO. He has a great website of his work, and although I knew him first and foremost as a photographer--he is also a talented poet and painter. Also, did I mention he has great taste in hip-hop?
Well, here are just some of my amazingly talented friends and I hope you enjoy some or all of their work as much as I do!
So now that I have 4 male friends promoted, 4 females are up next. Feel free to bribe me if you are an artist (with a vagina) and want to be mentioned on this blog that no one reads. Haha. I actually really liked doing this so maybe this will become a weekly separate from the AYSK series. Like "NYSK"--"Nobodies You Should Know"--and once they become famous (which they will because I wrote about them) they can join the ranks of "AYSK." Or maybe I'll just call it "Friends You Should Know" --nah...NYSK is much catchier. A new weekly is born!
Let me know what you think of their work and this new idea and how it can be improved. Also, if you have any friends you think I should mention, feel free to pass their info along!
Yay Art! (Now, back to work.)
To make up for the fact that I am many AYSK's behind, I am going to provide links to blogs/websites of some of my male friends that make art and generally rock. (Don't worry...female edition to follow!) They are out there, living in the world, and making damn sure they do what they love--and for that, I have to give them credit and praise. So here goes...a slight deviation from the usual formula...but the Artists (and People) You Should Know:
1. Mark Jay Brewin Jr. Yes, my fiance, BUT also, an incredible artist. Although he is currently getting his MFA in Creative Writing--poetry, specifically--he is very talented in many other art forms and mediums. His work focuses on found objects, memory, constructing narrative, and nostalgia. If you only have time for one work, I suggest the Woodrow Jefferson Project.
2. Andrew Spears. When I first met Mr. Spears he had a fro and orange sneakers. Now, he has a beard and dinosaur-footsie pajamas. A phenomenal artist that is constantly thinking about his next project even when serving up brews and booze in Greensboro, NC. He does not restrict himself to one medium and has created exceptional photographic, digital, and installation work. My favorite work of Spears is an installation entitled "Reaction."
3. M. Spencer Johnson. When one thinks of contemporary art--what's hip and new--one rarely thinks of ceramics/sculpture. However, this bike-enthusiast works primarily in the medium of ceramics and does a fantastic job of creating different, interesting, and beautiful pieces. He challenges those nincumpoops (that's right, I said it...nincumpoops!) that say ceramics is strictly functional and out-dated by incorporating unique elements into the materials he uses. His "Ashes to Ashes" series is a great example of this.
4. Andrew Jonathan Giles. I had the pleasure of working with Andrew at camp this past summer and he is wonderful photographer, teacher, painter, artist, and human being. Originally from Texas, he now lives and creates in Denver, CO. He has a great website of his work, and although I knew him first and foremost as a photographer--he is also a talented poet and painter. Also, did I mention he has great taste in hip-hop?
Well, here are just some of my amazingly talented friends and I hope you enjoy some or all of their work as much as I do!
So now that I have 4 male friends promoted, 4 females are up next. Feel free to bribe me if you are an artist (with a vagina) and want to be mentioned on this blog that no one reads. Haha. I actually really liked doing this so maybe this will become a weekly separate from the AYSK series. Like "NYSK"--"Nobodies You Should Know"--and once they become famous (which they will because I wrote about them) they can join the ranks of "AYSK." Or maybe I'll just call it "Friends You Should Know" --nah...NYSK is much catchier. A new weekly is born!
Let me know what you think of their work and this new idea and how it can be improved. Also, if you have any friends you think I should mention, feel free to pass their info along!
Yay Art! (Now, back to work.)
11.11.2008
AYSK #4
So this has gone from a "weekly" into a "whenever-I-have-time-and-want-to-avoid-work-and-or-feel-like-it." Hope that's alright with all of you... (all 4-5 of you.)
Without further ado...
AYSK #4:
YOUNG-HAE CHANG HEAVY INDUSTRIES
Mini-Bio: Your guess is as good as mine. (You'll see why I say this when you see the website/artwork). But Wikipedia says: Young-Hae Chang Heavy Industries (장영혜중공업) is a Seoul-based Web art group consisting of Marc Voge (USA) and Young-Hae Chang (Korea).
What kind of art? Online, or Net, Art. Video (if you can call it that).
Examples of work: (And for AYSK #4, this will take some work on your part since all of their work is located at various websites, that operate off of their main one.)
My favorites that I've looked at so far are as follows:
Dakota
All Fall Down
Victoria's Fire (Lovely reference to the classic Doors song, for those that are into that)
So, So Soulful
Online/Net/Web art is a very new field--mostly because the interweb is so dang new. The work of Young-Hae Chang Heavy Industries has gotten a lot of recognition for its simplistic methods (Macromedia Flash) and for its unique blend of word/language, sound, color, and timing. Their work has been exhibited in galleries and museums as well as on the Net--which I unfortunately have not witnessed firsthand. I hear it is an amazing experience that highlights their use of all the techniques/elements mentioned above. I have decided to share them and give them the AYSK title because I feel like Net Art is an overlooked or unknown medium that produces some truly interesting and stimulating (emotionally, visually, intellectually, etc.) work that is quite poignant in this age of technology.
Let me know if you discover any other Young-Hae Chang Heavy Industries work on their website that you feel is of note or just plain fun. Sadly, I have not had the time to view them all and part of me is afraid I will develop epilepsy with too many viewings. So, with that, happy/safe viewing to you all and to all a goodnight!
Without further ado...
AYSK #4:
YOUNG-HAE CHANG HEAVY INDUSTRIES
Mini-Bio: Your guess is as good as mine. (You'll see why I say this when you see the website/artwork). But Wikipedia says: Young-Hae Chang Heavy Industries (장영혜중공업) is a Seoul-based Web art group consisting of Marc Voge (USA) and Young-Hae Chang (Korea).
What kind of art? Online, or Net, Art. Video (if you can call it that).
Examples of work: (And for AYSK #4, this will take some work on your part since all of their work is located at various websites, that operate off of their main one.)
My favorites that I've looked at so far are as follows:
Dakota
All Fall Down
Victoria's Fire (Lovely reference to the classic Doors song, for those that are into that)
So, So Soulful
Online/Net/Web art is a very new field--mostly because the interweb is so dang new. The work of Young-Hae Chang Heavy Industries has gotten a lot of recognition for its simplistic methods (Macromedia Flash) and for its unique blend of word/language, sound, color, and timing. Their work has been exhibited in galleries and museums as well as on the Net--which I unfortunately have not witnessed firsthand. I hear it is an amazing experience that highlights their use of all the techniques/elements mentioned above. I have decided to share them and give them the AYSK title because I feel like Net Art is an overlooked or unknown medium that produces some truly interesting and stimulating (emotionally, visually, intellectually, etc.) work that is quite poignant in this age of technology.
Let me know if you discover any other Young-Hae Chang Heavy Industries work on their website that you feel is of note or just plain fun. Sadly, I have not had the time to view them all and part of me is afraid I will develop epilepsy with too many viewings. So, with that, happy/safe viewing to you all and to all a goodnight!
The Pictures...Late, But as Promised
Below are the images I promised from my trip to the New-York Historical Society. Again, they are very poor quality, but thankfully I was able to make photocopies--which I have yet to scan. The first two images highlight the kiddie/kitty phenomenon I mentioned in my previous post. It doesn't really have anything to do with my paper's thesis, and I don't see how I could ever make sense of it, but it's funny and interesting nonetheless.
The two images below those are just some examples of the coffee companies advertising to the patriotism and "American-ness" of their consumers. By creating state trading cards, with imagery that is representational of the state it's depicting, coffee companies (especially Ariosa, of Arbuckle Bros. coffee--which is the company that made these trading cards) played off the American nationalism, but also the state pride of its customer.
And coffee companies never forgot to cater to those who related more to their religion than their nationality--which is demonstrated by the Hagadah, Passover Seder Service booklet, compliments of Maxwell House Coffee.
And finally, Maxwell House's "American Series," which perhaps demonstrates best the patriotic/American advertising strategy.
Hope you find these as fascinating as I do! I'll keep you posted on any more research discoveries or new theories (especially about the kiddies/kitties).
Coffee advertisement doubling as a mock newspaper and pretty picture of young girl with kitten?
Kitties--On the reverse side is an advertisement for coffee...obviously. When I think coffee, I think kittens.
In Florida, there are oranges, but there is also Arbuckle Bros. Ariosa brand coffee!
North Carolina--poor quality image, but another example of the state trading card.
Not necessarily in line with my theories on patriotism/Americanism, but still an interesting advertising tactic to reach a specific demographic. Not only did coffee companies want to give you free pretty pictures, they also wanted to sponsor your religious booklets! Go figure!
The slogan for Maxwell House's "American Series" campaign: "...and it's Maxwell House wherever you go."
Maxwell House is in Times Square!
Maxwell House is also in your small town, that waves its American flag and plants trees!
And don't forget! Maxwell House is with you during all seasons, even in more rural areas!**Note: The last 2 images did not have the Maxwell House slogan "and it's Maxwell House wherever you go." However, the last two would be sent to customers who purchased Maxwell House as a sort of present for purchasing the "right" coffee and, since they were part of a series, there was an incentive to collect all the pretty pictures (by well-known artists)--thus, creating an incentive to purchase Maxwell House.
And who could live without their American songbook?! Compliments of Chase & Sanborn coffee (the coffee company that also created the spanking ad). One second you're promoting nationalistic pride, and the next--domestic violence. Or do they go hand in hand in America? I kid, I kid.
Well, that's all for tonight kiddies (or kitties, whichever you prefer)! Off to work on my presentation for tomorrow on the role of man and woman in Post-WWII society and how they were, in turn, depicted in popular culture and advertising. Goodnight!
11.05.2008
Update on the Research
Tuesday I spent the afternoon at the New-York Historical Society. The hyphen is their addition--not mine. Weird huh?
Unfortunately, I did not uncover any more misogynistic coffee advertisements. I did, however, discover that coffee companies frequently link themselves to being "American" in order to relate to their consumers. I found many advertisements that included images of "American scenes" and images/copy that linked certain types of coffee to the different/all states and the American way of life. I think it's fascinating that when trying to market a product where there really are minute differences (I'm sorry, but doesn't all coffee taste the same? At least the kind you can buy at the grocery store...) the companies have to relate to their customers in another way--Can't advertise to their taste buds or palettes so why not their pride for their country? There was also a tendency to offer beautiful pictures and collectible cards as an incentive to purchase one type of coffee over another. Buy Maxwell House? Well on top of getting a pound of coffee---you get a lovely, frameable, collectible print by a famous painter! Everyone loves a little extra--especially when it's "free."
When I get back to Long Island (currently in NC) I will post pictures of these said advertisements. All of the images I took with a digital camera (without a flash...so looooow quality). They are part of the Landauer collection. Interesting tidbit about the Landauer collection: Every piece within it and there are THOUSANDS was all collected by one woman who just loved her ephemera. Talk about a pack rat! Her gain is my gain!
Let me know what you think about the images (when I post them) and/or my new research topic!
**NOTE: There was also an absurd amount of advertisements with images of kids and kittens. Like ABSURD amount. Any thoughts on why? Because I'm at a loss!
Unfortunately, I did not uncover any more misogynistic coffee advertisements. I did, however, discover that coffee companies frequently link themselves to being "American" in order to relate to their consumers. I found many advertisements that included images of "American scenes" and images/copy that linked certain types of coffee to the different/all states and the American way of life. I think it's fascinating that when trying to market a product where there really are minute differences (I'm sorry, but doesn't all coffee taste the same? At least the kind you can buy at the grocery store...) the companies have to relate to their customers in another way--Can't advertise to their taste buds or palettes so why not their pride for their country? There was also a tendency to offer beautiful pictures and collectible cards as an incentive to purchase one type of coffee over another. Buy Maxwell House? Well on top of getting a pound of coffee---you get a lovely, frameable, collectible print by a famous painter! Everyone loves a little extra--especially when it's "free."
When I get back to Long Island (currently in NC) I will post pictures of these said advertisements. All of the images I took with a digital camera (without a flash...so looooow quality). They are part of the Landauer collection. Interesting tidbit about the Landauer collection: Every piece within it and there are THOUSANDS was all collected by one woman who just loved her ephemera. Talk about a pack rat! Her gain is my gain!
Let me know what you think about the images (when I post them) and/or my new research topic!
**NOTE: There was also an absurd amount of advertisements with images of kids and kittens. Like ABSURD amount. Any thoughts on why? Because I'm at a loss!
EXPECT PICS TOMORROW NIGHT!!!
11.03.2008
So it's all personal lately...
Another personal note:
I am swamped with work. In order to combat my growing stress level and constant feeling of inactivity, I decided to make a mental map. It is amazing. I am in love. And it's beautiful, color-coded and somewhat visual/artistic (which is my reasoning for sharing it on this blog.) Enjoy looking at my life and feeling either sorry for me, likewise, or even more stressed than before. I was mostly going for sympathy.
I am swamped with work. In order to combat my growing stress level and constant feeling of inactivity, I decided to make a mental map. It is amazing. I am in love. And it's beautiful, color-coded and somewhat visual/artistic (which is my reasoning for sharing it on this blog.) Enjoy looking at my life and feeling either sorry for me, likewise, or even more stressed than before. I was mostly going for sympathy.
Note: You can click and drag my mind-map around. Yep, keeps getting better.
Also, if you want to make your own map, visit the website! It's free and so easy to sign up and you can make numerous maps and save them! Happy mapping!
Also, if you want to make your own map, visit the website! It's free and so easy to sign up and you can make numerous maps and save them! Happy mapping!
11.02.2008
On a personal note...
CONGRATULATIONS KEVIN AND DANIELLE!!!
Dear friends of Mark and myself got engaged tonight November 1st (or 2nd--don't know the exact time of the proposal). They are wonderful people and an amazing couple and I could not be happier for them!
And...to keep this blog post "art-related" I have decided to include the trailer for a short film that Kevin wrote and directed and that Danielle produced. Not only are they a phenomenal romantic couple, but a tremendous professional duo as well! The film is amazing and they just had a screening with a packed house! Kevin and Danielle are talented, fun (and funny), genuine and caring and Mark and I are the luckiest people to have them as friends. Congrats again!
10.29.2008
AYSK # 3
I may be late (as usual), but the third installment of the "Artists You Should Know" weekly is here! I have chosen the following artist because he proves that street art is a viable and important art form that sometimes, just sometimes, gets noticed by the mainstream.
AYSK #3 is...
Shepard Fairey
Mini-Bio: Born in 1970. Attended RISD (Hellz yeah RI!). Became famous for his "Obey Giant" campaign. Now resides in Los Angeles.
What kind of art? Street art. Graphic Design. Illustrations.
Examples of his work:
Shepard Fairey's work in action.
Another Fairey graphic design. If you couldn't tell, he has strong political and social views.
Betcha didn't know this! That's right! Shepard Fairey painted this...which became the design for Obama's "Hope" campaign. It is beautiful and amazing and I am so happy it became a campaign poster.
AYSK #3 is...
Shepard Fairey
Mini-Bio: Born in 1970. Attended RISD (Hellz yeah RI!). Became famous for his "Obey Giant" campaign. Now resides in Los Angeles.
What kind of art? Street art. Graphic Design. Illustrations.
Examples of his work:
The original sticker/design from the "Andre the Giant Has a Posse" sticker campaign in 1989. The campaign that later became known as the "Obey Giant" campaign.
Shepard Fairey's work in action.Another Fairey graphic design. If you couldn't tell, he has strong political and social views.Betcha didn't know this! That's right! Shepard Fairey painted this...which became the design for Obama's "Hope" campaign. It is beautiful and amazing and I am so happy it became a campaign poster.
If you want to know more about Shepard Fairey, check these websites out:
Wikipedia...Yep, Wikipedia--Deal with it!
His personal "Obey Giant" Website
Hope you like his stuff because I LOVE it! Enjoy!
Wikipedia...Yep, Wikipedia--Deal with it!
His personal "Obey Giant" Website
Hope you like his stuff because I LOVE it! Enjoy!
10.19.2008
AYSK #2
A little late, but still keeping up with the Artist You Should Know weekly edition.
And the AYSK #2 award goes to...
Olafur Eliasson
Mini-Bio: Born in 1967 in Copenhagen. Lives in Copenhagen and Berlin. Scandinavian break-dancing champion. (And I did not even make that up.)
What kind of art? Public and site-specific art. Scientific art (art and science combined.) Large-scale sculpture/architecture and installation.
Examples of his work:
And the AYSK #2 award goes to...
Olafur Eliasson
Mini-Bio: Born in 1967 in Copenhagen. Lives in Copenhagen and Berlin. Scandinavian break-dancing champion. (And I did not even make that up.)
What kind of art? Public and site-specific art. Scientific art (art and science combined.) Large-scale sculpture/architecture and installation.
Examples of his work:
Two images from his Waterfall Project, New York City, 2008
For more information: NYC Waterfalls Project
As you can probably tell, Olafur Eliasson's work has a great deal to do with nature--or, more specifically, human perception of and relationship to nature. He has been considered a "relational artist", which means that his work's purpose is centered around its relationship to the viewer, the relationship to its surroundings and the new relationship it creates through its existence. The theory of "relational art" is complicated one, but Olafur Eliasson is the best artist to demonstrate the practice of that theory. I find his work particuarly important because through his artworks he creates a dialogue about reality, manufactured reality, the fear that stems from the altering of realities and the importance of nature.
If you want to learn more about Olafur and his work, his own personal website is a great place to start.
Enjoy!
For more information: NYC Waterfalls Project
As you can probably tell, Olafur Eliasson's work has a great deal to do with nature--or, more specifically, human perception of and relationship to nature. He has been considered a "relational artist", which means that his work's purpose is centered around its relationship to the viewer, the relationship to its surroundings and the new relationship it creates through its existence. The theory of "relational art" is complicated one, but Olafur Eliasson is the best artist to demonstrate the practice of that theory. I find his work particuarly important because through his artworks he creates a dialogue about reality, manufactured reality, the fear that stems from the altering of realities and the importance of nature.
If you want to learn more about Olafur and his work, his own personal website is a great place to start.
Enjoy!
10.15.2008
When you've got coffee breath...
So my initial research topic for my American Visual Cultures class was on coffee advertising and tin design prior to the 1940s. BUT--since there is hardly any information/images on this topic, I decided to switch (quite sequentially) from coffee, which give you stinky breath, to advertising for a mouthwash, which improves bad breath!
I did not have this connection in mind when I decided on switching topics. I mostly wanted to cover Listerine advertisements because--as you can see below--they are AMAZING, and by AMAZING I mean they are full of ridiculous claims, spectacular photographs and overwhelming sexism.
I will keep you (blogosphere) posted on this research, but here are two Listerine advertisements to hold you over for now.
Listerine Advertisement, 1928
Listerine Advertisement, 1929
I did not have this connection in mind when I decided on switching topics. I mostly wanted to cover Listerine advertisements because--as you can see below--they are AMAZING, and by AMAZING I mean they are full of ridiculous claims, spectacular photographs and overwhelming sexism.
I will keep you (blogosphere) posted on this research, but here are two Listerine advertisements to hold you over for now.
Listerine Advertisement, 1928
Listerine Advertisement, 1929
10.10.2008
AMAZING!
I have attached a link that everyone should look at. It is unbelievable. It shows how so little can go so far--how ingenuity and creativity can come from anywhere and exist everywhere--how dedication is the backbone of great artwork. Please take a look. Hopefully it will inspire you as it has inspired me.
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