If anyone feels cynical about music videos this is one that will change your mind.
11/19/09
MAD DECENT
maddecent.com
Welcome welcome to the entrance of a deep well. Diplo and Switch, aka Major Lazer, search high and low to dig up local scenes in Jamaica, NYC, LA, London, Mexico...
I would recommend beginning with their MAD DECENT podcast on iTunes. Touted as NPR for the streets, stream (for free) their take on the ever changing edge of innovation. From hyphy to dub-step, hip-hop to a Britney Spears remix.
Welcome welcome to the entrance of a deep well. Diplo and Switch, aka Major Lazer, search high and low to dig up local scenes in Jamaica, NYC, LA, London, Mexico...
I would recommend beginning with their MAD DECENT podcast on iTunes. Touted as NPR for the streets, stream (for free) their take on the ever changing edge of innovation. From hyphy to dub-step, hip-hop to a Britney Spears remix.
11/9/09
ALL MY FRIENDS | LCD SOUNDSYSTEM
That this video is shot in one take foregrounds the notion of actually having an idea and making it happen. There is a reliance on old school film tricks that develops, in this great informal gesture. Feels half art-installation and half backyard shoot with the neighbor kids and a borrowed video camera.
11/4/09
MGMT | THE YOUTH
This from director Eric Wareheim (Tim and Eric Awesome Show), who does a lot of funny and bizarre music video work. Definitely an artist with a unique vision and style.
PON DE FLOOR | MAJOR LAZER
This hurts me. In a good way. I think my friend JB summed it up best when she said, "dude, that director is obsessed with big asses and dry humping, he is now my idol..."
10/22/09
SJORS VERVOORT
youtube.com/watch?v=18usd0iV3eI&feature=player_embedded#
Ok, so I'm just really riding the coattails of other Blogs right now. But hot damn, this shit is so very ambitious and funny and simply made. Hats off Sjors. Check out his website: sjorsvervoort.nl
Ok, so I'm just really riding the coattails of other Blogs right now. But hot damn, this shit is so very ambitious and funny and simply made. Hats off Sjors. Check out his website: sjorsvervoort.nl
10/15/09
FONT CAPTURE
fontcapture.com
My wife inherited a small cardboard box of cartridge pens belonging to her grandparents. After spending some time chasing down store clerks with the arcane knowledge of their workings, I set about cleaning and refilling. Having this instrument has made me consider my handwriting.
I think this whole process started about a year ago when a friend mailed a wedding present. On opening the envelope, there spilled out a single Polaroid and several sheets of paper with a handwritten note. Seeing his script made me reconsider who this person is.
So in finding FONT CAPTURE, I have some mixed feelings. I'm tempted to say interesting compromise, but it is apples to oranges. No typeface has the sort of spontaneous interaction that unfolds with the hand writing process. Arguably. Regardless, download the form from their website, draw your letters in the boxes, scan, upload the file and voilá ! Oh and then be patient for something cool in your Inbox.
My wife inherited a small cardboard box of cartridge pens belonging to her grandparents. After spending some time chasing down store clerks with the arcane knowledge of their workings, I set about cleaning and refilling. Having this instrument has made me consider my handwriting.
I think this whole process started about a year ago when a friend mailed a wedding present. On opening the envelope, there spilled out a single Polaroid and several sheets of paper with a handwritten note. Seeing his script made me reconsider who this person is.
So in finding FONT CAPTURE, I have some mixed feelings. I'm tempted to say interesting compromise, but it is apples to oranges. No typeface has the sort of spontaneous interaction that unfolds with the hand writing process. Arguably. Regardless, download the form from their website, draw your letters in the boxes, scan, upload the file and voilá ! Oh and then be patient for something cool in your Inbox.
KIRSTEN LAPORE
vimeo.com/2544580
A strange little project from the artist KIRSTEN LAPORE, titled Story From North America. She really nails the vintage feel of an Americana story, with a moral lesson to boot. Kristen creates a nice variety of projects, from cell style animation to claymation. Mad skills. And inspired. Bunch of stuff on Vimeo (YouTube too, but the quality is way lower). Also see her website, here.
A strange little project from the artist KIRSTEN LAPORE, titled Story From North America. She really nails the vintage feel of an Americana story, with a moral lesson to boot. Kristen creates a nice variety of projects, from cell style animation to claymation. Mad skills. And inspired. Bunch of stuff on Vimeo (YouTube too, but the quality is way lower). Also see her website, here.
MAX HEADROOM
youtube.com/watch?v=la4VxWjUAGI&feature=related
OK forgot about this. But it's pretty damn genius. The editing and attitude is so spot on. There is a bunch of stuff on YouTube including a mini-doc on it's creators. Also check out the link where someone hacks into the airwaves wearing a Max Headroom mask, here.
OK forgot about this. But it's pretty damn genius. The editing and attitude is so spot on. There is a bunch of stuff on YouTube including a mini-doc on it's creators. Also check out the link where someone hacks into the airwaves wearing a Max Headroom mask, here.
9/24/09
SCOTT THOMAS
www.youtube.com/watch?v=3aO_OakK1yk&feature=channel
So this is the guy who designed the Obama campaign. Meet Scott Thomas. Killed it.
So this is the guy who designed the Obama campaign. Meet Scott Thomas. Killed it.
FLAVOR PAPER
www.youtube.com/watch?v=9_g376LMeWs&feature=player_embedded#t=137
Another video brought to us by Cool Hunting, this time about a wallpaper shop that screen prints wall paper by hand. Takes you through the steps. Wow these guys have it together in a major way. Check out their set-up, and do some drooling. Kicking ass and taking names. Oh, and don't miss their brief mention of their scratch and sniff papers.
Another video brought to us by Cool Hunting, this time about a wallpaper shop that screen prints wall paper by hand. Takes you through the steps. Wow these guys have it together in a major way. Check out their set-up, and do some drooling. Kicking ass and taking names. Oh, and don't miss their brief mention of their scratch and sniff papers.
GRAFICA FIDALGA
www.coolhunting.com/archives/2009/04
This is a great short video about a working group of printers in San Paulo, Brazil. There is an email contact for getting work done by their shop (esaretta@gmail.com). Really beautiful and easy to romanticize. But whatever downsides might exist for these guys, you can tell by the look in their eyes that they f*cking L-O-V-E their jobs. Take note.
This is a great short video about a working group of printers in San Paulo, Brazil. There is an email contact for getting work done by their shop (esaretta@gmail.com). Really beautiful and easy to romanticize. But whatever downsides might exist for these guys, you can tell by the look in their eyes that they f*cking L-O-V-E their jobs. Take note.
9/23/09
MICHAEL GILLETTE
www.heartagency.com/html/gillette_frameset.html
A great set of book designs drawing on classic James Bond imagery. Love the hand made work, as talked about by Michael Gillette below:
"Most of the type is hand drawn, then scanned and placed in Photoshop. The less scripted ones are based on old font books which were again scanned and manipulated. Sometimes I'd then print them out, create a stencil and make a monotype with an ink roller to get some texture (Moon Raker & Dr No especially). The Ian Fleming type was also hand drawn, I designed it to be flexible and easily adaptable with the varying other faces, it was important to me that the covers felt completely hand made, and was conscious not to make them look over-polished. Really, all the techniques involved are pretty much as they would have been in the 60's & 70's."
A great set of book designs drawing on classic James Bond imagery. Love the hand made work, as talked about by Michael Gillette below:
"Most of the type is hand drawn, then scanned and placed in Photoshop. The less scripted ones are based on old font books which were again scanned and manipulated. Sometimes I'd then print them out, create a stencil and make a monotype with an ink roller to get some texture (Moon Raker & Dr No especially). The Ian Fleming type was also hand drawn, I designed it to be flexible and easily adaptable with the varying other faces, it was important to me that the covers felt completely hand made, and was conscious not to make them look over-polished. Really, all the techniques involved are pretty much as they would have been in the 60's & 70's."
JENNY GRIGG
www.jennygrigg.com
A delicate line is cut in this inspired series of book designs that show a singular vision. Jenny Grigg finds a deep groove in these elegant covers for the author Peter Carey. Looking through her portfolio site, we see concepts that are translucent and whimsical yet razor sharp and specific. Jenny shows restraint, and then flourishes. As a designer with years of experience and an impressive CV, we are seeing a master at work.
A delicate line is cut in this inspired series of book designs that show a singular vision. Jenny Grigg finds a deep groove in these elegant covers for the author Peter Carey. Looking through her portfolio site, we see concepts that are translucent and whimsical yet razor sharp and specific. Jenny shows restraint, and then flourishes. As a designer with years of experience and an impressive CV, we are seeing a master at work.
8/25/09
KID KUDI
As much as I love the narrative, beats, and style of KID KUDI's Day N Nite, this posting is about the video's director - SO ME. Love this guy's style as well as his ability to convey thoughts/ideas visually. Yes, 1 + 1 does equal 3.
PHILIP LOW
www.maryamnassirzadeh.com/Philip_Low/low.html
Lumps of plastic. OK Lucite. Confounding, in that I stumble to classify them as objects, or art, or consumable, or paper weight, or interstellar travel device aka Phillip K. Dick.
Lumps of plastic. OK Lucite. Confounding, in that I stumble to classify them as objects, or art, or consumable, or paper weight, or interstellar travel device aka Phillip K. Dick.
8/17/09
SIR SHAMBLING'S DEEP SOUL HEAVEN
www.sirshambling.com
Here is a guy who pushes the boundaries of digital music rights in to a realm that approaches the encyclopedic. Or maybe Wikipediac. Think of this expansive music archive as your entrance pass to the pearly gates of all that is soul. As way of introduction, from the website:
Set aside a large block of your day, turn off the phone, and enjoy.
Here is a guy who pushes the boundaries of digital music rights in to a realm that approaches the encyclopedic. Or maybe Wikipediac. Think of this expansive music archive as your entrance pass to the pearly gates of all that is soul. As way of introduction, from the website:
Due to Sir Shambling’s age, weight and general physical condition the emphasis here is on the slower side of things – not just by way of personal preference for those gritty ballads but also to act as a counter-weight to all the Northern soul and dance sites that exist. And while the great names of Southern soul will all feature here, so will a lot of lesser known artists. Again not just for the thrill of the obscure, but because so many rarer performances deserve to be valued and appreciated properly.
Set aside a large block of your day, turn off the phone, and enjoy.
7/20/09
STREET MUSIC
www.vimeo.com/5685995
This Gentleman plays some days on the corner of 16th Street and South Van Ness in San Francisco. He had no reply when I asked him his name. His instrument is the mandolin, played lap guitar style with a steel slide. The result is a psychedelic country western, with a preference for Hank Williams. It is good that the song titles are announced beforehand - it would be tough to recognize his covers otherwise.
My friend visiting from LA recorded a little bit on his iPHONE. Check the Vimeo link above, or better yet go and to listen a little while. I'll be damned if you don't feel somehow transported as you walk away.
This Gentleman plays some days on the corner of 16th Street and South Van Ness in San Francisco. He had no reply when I asked him his name. His instrument is the mandolin, played lap guitar style with a steel slide. The result is a psychedelic country western, with a preference for Hank Williams. It is good that the song titles are announced beforehand - it would be tough to recognize his covers otherwise.
My friend visiting from LA recorded a little bit on his iPHONE. Check the Vimeo link above, or better yet go and to listen a little while. I'll be damned if you don't feel somehow transported as you walk away.
7/14/09
ROLAND
www.adbusters.org/magazine/84/terrorwithin
For most people having lived, or now living, of even having visited a city, you will definitely have encountered such a character as ROLAND. The interaction leaves you with such a strange mix of fear, sadness, violation, introspection, and often curiosity. The question comes fairly naturally: how did this person get to where he/she is today? This short story helps fill in the blanks for at least one such human.
For most people having lived, or now living, of even having visited a city, you will definitely have encountered such a character as ROLAND. The interaction leaves you with such a strange mix of fear, sadness, violation, introspection, and often curiosity. The question comes fairly naturally: how did this person get to where he/she is today? This short story helps fill in the blanks for at least one such human.
7/6/09
VIVA RADIO
www.viva-radio.com
I have been on the FLAVORPILL blast for a few months now. They do a good job with their daily email updates - alerting me to things that actually are worth checking out. It seems the type of endeavor that is difficult to remain consistently inspired with. Kudos.
One note tho- with creating the content for "eleven email magazines.. in six cities" (according to their press material) I hope they don't become the Clear Channel of the internet. Right now the vibe is independent and tuned in. Keep going!
Tune in to the streaming radio program and let it do it's thing. Enjoy.
I have been on the FLAVORPILL blast for a few months now. They do a good job with their daily email updates - alerting me to things that actually are worth checking out. It seems the type of endeavor that is difficult to remain consistently inspired with. Kudos.
One note tho- with creating the content for "eleven email magazines.. in six cities" (according to their press material) I hope they don't become the Clear Channel of the internet. Right now the vibe is independent and tuned in. Keep going!
Tune in to the streaming radio program and let it do it's thing. Enjoy.
6/25/09
6/23/09
HAPPINOMICS
www.adbusters.org/magazine/84/happinomics.html
I have a friend who creates film projects in Los Angeles. One of his earliest ideas for a PSA (Public Service Announcement) was on the subject of riding the LA subway. He had this narrative about a young guy and girl seeing each other and making a flirty connection while riding the subway. The point of the story having to do with the possibilities inherent of public traveling (verses of course, being that it is LA, car traveling). He began riding the LA subway - or well, took at least one round-trip ride. Apparently he found the experience so dismal, and his target audience so obviously absent, that he scraped the whole project. The PSA was replaced by a funny story about the dangers of smoking marijuana. Hmm.
I think sometimes you need to have the vision to create something that maybe others cannot see. In fact, it is your vision shared with people that expands what is deemed possible. I think historically we see this sort of beyond-the-box leadership, especially in such endeavors as civic infrastructure projects and scientific research. Maybe we should apply those rules to our media making as well.
This article touches on public transportation and talking with strangers. I mention this as I love public transportation but hate what it has become. Cell phone abuse anyone? I really would love to do a public awareness campaign, in collaboration with a transportation provider, about the joys and pitfalls of riding with our fellow citizens. Something funny, but also speaking some real truth. Anyone?
I have a friend who creates film projects in Los Angeles. One of his earliest ideas for a PSA (Public Service Announcement) was on the subject of riding the LA subway. He had this narrative about a young guy and girl seeing each other and making a flirty connection while riding the subway. The point of the story having to do with the possibilities inherent of public traveling (verses of course, being that it is LA, car traveling). He began riding the LA subway - or well, took at least one round-trip ride. Apparently he found the experience so dismal, and his target audience so obviously absent, that he scraped the whole project. The PSA was replaced by a funny story about the dangers of smoking marijuana. Hmm.
I think sometimes you need to have the vision to create something that maybe others cannot see. In fact, it is your vision shared with people that expands what is deemed possible. I think historically we see this sort of beyond-the-box leadership, especially in such endeavors as civic infrastructure projects and scientific research. Maybe we should apply those rules to our media making as well.
This article touches on public transportation and talking with strangers. I mention this as I love public transportation but hate what it has become. Cell phone abuse anyone? I really would love to do a public awareness campaign, in collaboration with a transportation provider, about the joys and pitfalls of riding with our fellow citizens. Something funny, but also speaking some real truth. Anyone?
6/9/09
BECK - CELLPHONE'S DEAD
Beck's narratives, poetic and disjointed, are a great match for the film making of Michel Gondry. Also there is a visually lo-tech/high-tec thing happening here. Partly nostalgic/classic, mixed with trendy. Sweet.
6/2/09
INTERVIEW PROJECT
www.interviewproject.davidlynch.com
Having shot and edited several interview projects, I have a real fondness for the spaces that open up when you give someone the chance to tell their story. Almost everyone, even the most boring looking stranger, has a fascinating story to tell. David Lynch's INTERVIEW PROJECT uses the framework of an extensive US road trip. During that time they meet and interview people, after which the edited interviews are posted to the website. So more the vibe of Lynch's Straight Story than say Lost Highway. At least on the surface.
Having shot and edited several interview projects, I have a real fondness for the spaces that open up when you give someone the chance to tell their story. Almost everyone, even the most boring looking stranger, has a fascinating story to tell. David Lynch's INTERVIEW PROJECT uses the framework of an extensive US road trip. During that time they meet and interview people, after which the edited interviews are posted to the website. So more the vibe of Lynch's Straight Story than say Lost Highway. At least on the surface.
5/26/09
BRION NUDA ROSCH
www.somethinghomesomething.blogspot.com
BRION NUDA ROSCH's Something ^ HOME ^ Something project is a visual sketchbook that jumps the boundaries of curator, artist, other artist projects and his own projects. It exists in a time line of its own making - without the constraints of a physical space's schedules and egos, rent checks, marketing materials, and artist production schedules. Instead we tap into the flow of a culture maker, and witness the visual evolution as it unfolds. This segues nicely in to the experience of going to see one of Brion's shows. Walk in the front door and you will feel as if you were on the inside all along.
For those in San Francisco, you can check out one of his projects at PARK LIFE, along with the artists Chris Corales, Andrea Myers, Matthew Rich, and Liz Walsh.
BRION NUDA ROSCH's Something ^ HOME ^ Something project is a visual sketchbook that jumps the boundaries of curator, artist, other artist projects and his own projects. It exists in a time line of its own making - without the constraints of a physical space's schedules and egos, rent checks, marketing materials, and artist production schedules. Instead we tap into the flow of a culture maker, and witness the visual evolution as it unfolds. This segues nicely in to the experience of going to see one of Brion's shows. Walk in the front door and you will feel as if you were on the inside all along.
For those in San Francisco, you can check out one of his projects at PARK LIFE, along with the artists Chris Corales, Andrea Myers, Matthew Rich, and Liz Walsh.
STRAY CATS
When I showed this video to my wife she was disturbed. It made me laugh, but well I don't like cats. I have to admit never seeing the original Cats, so maybe I watch this with naive eyes. Or not. Anyhow, great project.
ccMIXTER
www.ccmixter.org
ccMIXTER is an online site for song based samples. Free to use and abuse, remix and post. Their is a community aspect to this site, where you can check out other Mixers' mixes, including some contributions by commercial artists. I like the a capella section, with a lot of samples by upstarts from Sac-town and beyond. The underground goes digital.
ccMIXTER is an online site for song based samples. Free to use and abuse, remix and post. Their is a community aspect to this site, where you can check out other Mixers' mixes, including some contributions by commercial artists. I like the a capella section, with a lot of samples by upstarts from Sac-town and beyond. The underground goes digital.
FREESOUND PROJECT
www.freesound.org
The FREESOUND PROJECT contains Foley samples for audio mixing. Posted by users and housed within the Creative Commons umbrella, feel free to use these sounds in your projects.
The FREESOUND PROJECT contains Foley samples for audio mixing. Posted by users and housed within the Creative Commons umbrella, feel free to use these sounds in your projects.
5/21/09
SOCIAL DESIGNER
www.socialdesigner.com
SOCIAL DESIGNER issues open design competitions for products that try to raise awareness about a number of issues. Think product design 2.0. So products whose function is both green and progressive, not just sexy and consumable. Or should I say, as well as sexy and consumable? The designs are voted on, produced and sold on their website. The winning designer is paid a flat fee. Capitalism and idealism, hand in hand. Their latest competition is for a tote that promotes regional/local eating. Hope to make the deadline for my own design.
SOCIAL DESIGNER issues open design competitions for products that try to raise awareness about a number of issues. Think product design 2.0. So products whose function is both green and progressive, not just sexy and consumable. Or should I say, as well as sexy and consumable? The designs are voted on, produced and sold on their website. The winning designer is paid a flat fee. Capitalism and idealism, hand in hand. Their latest competition is for a tote that promotes regional/local eating. Hope to make the deadline for my own design.
5/14/09
DREW STRUZAN
http://www.drewstruzan.com/illustrated/
In doing research for movie poster design I discovered a rich history. One thing that is noticeably missing from (most) contemporary movie poster designs are hand created illustrations. I guess it has fallen out of favor to some extent. I would argue that nothing yells out, "this is special!" quite like the illustrative style of someone such as DREW STRUZAN. This guy is one bad-ass MF. Check out the skillz! Go Drew!
In doing research for movie poster design I discovered a rich history. One thing that is noticeably missing from (most) contemporary movie poster designs are hand created illustrations. I guess it has fallen out of favor to some extent. I would argue that nothing yells out, "this is special!" quite like the illustrative style of someone such as DREW STRUZAN. This guy is one bad-ass MF. Check out the skillz! Go Drew!
INTRALINK GRAPHICS
www.intralinkfilm.com
There is a real magic to those back-lit transparency ads for films. The color really pop, the blacks rich and deep. The quality of the photos and graphics draw me, as I walk the long row of framed ads at my local theater house. These cats at INTRALINK do a lot of the big name films.
There is a real magic to those back-lit transparency ads for films. The color really pop, the blacks rich and deep. The quality of the photos and graphics draw me, as I walk the long row of framed ads at my local theater house. These cats at INTRALINK do a lot of the big name films.
FREE MUSIC ARCHIVE
www.freemusicarchive.org
FMA is a curated on-line music site that allows you to listen and down-load free music legally. Some of this music is contemporary and some is in the Creative Commons because the copyright has expired. So that means some of the music is available for use in your creative projects. Great resource.
The site itself is well organized and you can sort by genre, search for artists, etc. It works well to stream music while you are working. Also great for allowing some serious music nerds to guide you towards new bands, or discover a band from years past.
FMA is a curated on-line music site that allows you to listen and down-load free music legally. Some of this music is contemporary and some is in the Creative Commons because the copyright has expired. So that means some of the music is available for use in your creative projects. Great resource.
The site itself is well organized and you can sort by genre, search for artists, etc. It works well to stream music while you are working. Also great for allowing some serious music nerds to guide you towards new bands, or discover a band from years past.
4/28/09
MY DRIVE THRU
www.youtube.com/watch?v=GPZ5fnYFI4Q
This is by far and above one of the best stop motion projects I have seen to date. Thanks for taking that to the next level. Damn. Sent to me by my man Andy Co. Music by N.E.R.D., Santogold and Julian Casablancas.
This is by far and above one of the best stop motion projects I have seen to date. Thanks for taking that to the next level. Damn. Sent to me by my man Andy Co. Music by N.E.R.D., Santogold and Julian Casablancas.
4/23/09
FILM TITLES
www.watchthetitles.com
Nice website that opens up into world of film/tv title sequence fetishism. Rightly so. Love it.
Here is a link to one of the Masters in title design. All bow down to Saul Bass.
www.notcoming.com/saulbass/index2.php
Nice website that opens up into world of film/tv title sequence fetishism. Rightly so. Love it.
Here is a link to one of the Masters in title design. All bow down to Saul Bass.
www.notcoming.com/saulbass/index2.php
4/13/09
GARTH TRINIDAD
www.kcrw.com/music/programs/cc/cc061230all_things_james_bro
Another page from the KCRW site. Man on a week that is going shite, Garth can save the day. Aired live on Saturday nites, and then archived and free at a moment's need.
As a huge James Brown fan, this particular show is important to me. Aired five days after the big guys ascension to the second floor, there are a host of great rare tracks and audio samples from James' colorful life. I particularly find dark humor in the interview by the local news caster. So wrong. So right.
Featuring the Bay Area's own Beat Junkies (J-Logic, Jedi & DJ Rome).
Another page from the KCRW site. Man on a week that is going shite, Garth can save the day. Aired live on Saturday nites, and then archived and free at a moment's need.
As a huge James Brown fan, this particular show is important to me. Aired five days after the big guys ascension to the second floor, there are a host of great rare tracks and audio samples from James' colorful life. I particularly find dark humor in the interview by the local news caster. So wrong. So right.
Featuring the Bay Area's own Beat Junkies (J-Logic, Jedi & DJ Rome).
MICHEL GONDRY
www.kcrw.com/music/programs/mb/mb090409michel_gondry
KCRW's archive of shows is a treasure trove. Its special and worth exploring. As a fan of Michel Gondry I was happy to run across this show. It is always interesting to get some insight into what makes an artist tick. Michel's picks are soulful and informative - he has a story for most each track.
Also, check out this video about Michel's poop. You need a laugh.
KCRW's archive of shows is a treasure trove. Its special and worth exploring. As a fan of Michel Gondry I was happy to run across this show. It is always interesting to get some insight into what makes an artist tick. Michel's picks are soulful and informative - he has a story for most each track.
Also, check out this video about Michel's poop. You need a laugh.
4/1/09
KAYNE WEST
Good Life
Indeed. This remains one of my favorites. So fargin fun. I could just loop this song and video ad infinitum. Kayne gimmie a call, let's make something fresh.
Indeed. This remains one of my favorites. So fargin fun. I could just loop this song and video ad infinitum. Kayne gimmie a call, let's make something fresh.
THE LONELY ISLAND
...In My Pants
Retarded. These guys are pulling off some high production values while remaining true to their ideas. My favorite shot is where the guy is DJing in 7-11 surrounded by vegetables. Wait, what convenience store has produce? This hook gets stuck in my head, unfortunately. Adult in nature.
Retarded. These guys are pulling off some high production values while remaining true to their ideas. My favorite shot is where the guy is DJing in 7-11 surrounded by vegetables. Wait, what convenience store has produce? This hook gets stuck in my head, unfortunately. Adult in nature.
KATE MAKI
We Are Gone
Pretty zen. Love walking down through her house to the basement. Wasn't I friends with this girl in college? No right, I wanted to be her friend in college.
Pretty zen. Love walking down through her house to the basement. Wasn't I friends with this girl in college? No right, I wanted to be her friend in college.
LLOYD
Damn. The future is now. So is the fantasy, apparently. This take on video ladies, portrayed as zombie aliens with glowing eyes... hmmmm. I know that the focus of the video is supposed to be the star, but I am questioning the wall flower method of women in videos. Stock character I suppose, if you think about it in a theater way. Even Shakespeare knew about the attraction to the town slut. Carry on.
MONSTERS ARE WAITING
Ones and Zeros
Beautiful color work and use of partially obscured images. Also the old car goes far, with lots of light streaming in to the lens. Dreamy.
Beautiful color work and use of partially obscured images. Also the old car goes far, with lots of light streaming in to the lens. Dreamy.
3/30/09
TINY MIX TAPES
www.tinymixtapes.com
More on the mix tapes tip, with a twist. TINY MIX TAPES offers to create a custom mix, based on a phrase you submit. So, your offering of Songs for Your Best Friend who Lives in France, Where he is Hungry and Cold gets spit out as a bunch of track listings that you can go out and find. Poetic. Lazy?
Also, they do archive a series of mixes by Chocolate Grinder, which should introduce you to a bunch of music that you never heard before (that doesn't suck). Archive here.
More on the mix tapes tip, with a twist. TINY MIX TAPES offers to create a custom mix, based on a phrase you submit. So, your offering of Songs for Your Best Friend who Lives in France, Where he is Hungry and Cold gets spit out as a bunch of track listings that you can go out and find. Poetic. Lazy?
Also, they do archive a series of mixes by Chocolate Grinder, which should introduce you to a bunch of music that you never heard before (that doesn't suck). Archive here.
3/26/09
LOUD FARM
www.loudfarm.com
For those into the band scene, both in San Francisco and elsewhere, there is Loud Farm. Freshly launched, they cull the web for articles on (mostly) independent music and post - boiling down the fat so to speak. So we're talking interviews, reviews, articles, and a well organized Bay Area music calendar. Clicking on Loud Farm takes you to all sorts of web projects that you never knew existed. But you should. Plus they have a fresh design scheme going on which makes me want to rush right down to their office and pinch someone's cheeks really hard til nice and pink.
For those into the band scene, both in San Francisco and elsewhere, there is Loud Farm. Freshly launched, they cull the web for articles on (mostly) independent music and post - boiling down the fat so to speak. So we're talking interviews, reviews, articles, and a well organized Bay Area music calendar. Clicking on Loud Farm takes you to all sorts of web projects that you never knew existed. But you should. Plus they have a fresh design scheme going on which makes me want to rush right down to their office and pinch someone's cheeks really hard til nice and pink.
3/24/09
LOBO
www.lobo.cx
Lobo is a design and animation company based out of Brazil but working internationally. Flipping through their projects you get the idea that they try to make the most out of each opportunity. Some of the concepts are stronger than others, but maybe my non-Portuguese-speaking-ass missed something.
Their website's Flash interface is a glimpse into the future of web design. In the PORTFOLIO section, check out the projects for REDE GLOBO (1), FORD (6), and GOL LINHAS AÉREAS (11). GOL, which is about the transformation of ideas, employs a lush, flickering light source recalling early cell animation. Belíssimo!
Lobo is a design and animation company based out of Brazil but working internationally. Flipping through their projects you get the idea that they try to make the most out of each opportunity. Some of the concepts are stronger than others, but maybe my non-Portuguese-speaking-ass missed something.
Their website's Flash interface is a glimpse into the future of web design. In the PORTFOLIO section, check out the projects for REDE GLOBO (1), FORD (6), and GOL LINHAS AÉREAS (11). GOL, which is about the transformation of ideas, employs a lush, flickering light source recalling early cell animation. Belíssimo!
3/23/09
KITSUNENOIR & MUXTAPE
www.kitsunenoir.com/blog/mixtapes
Ran across this page which is essentially a collection of mix tapes, including the cover art (very important). That the tape has become the cd has become the .mp3 - no matter. Nothing more exciting, to me, than getting a personal mix. This is a glimpse, a journey, straight in to the center of another human. Ignore the words flapping from their lips, check out the music. Special special.
There also is Muxtape, who as of late is in transformation. Their caterpillar state was a site where you could listen to user mixes, with a really nice colorful interface that didn't make you miss the cover art. Somehow. Alas, the more attention focused on the Muxtape folks, the more intellectual property right issues started popping up. Currently they exist in some hybrid state where they are getting popular indie band members to create short mixes, while also promoting their tracks. I give Muxtape the benefit of the doubt. I hope they find a way to stay true to their original vision. Judging from their current moves, they are going in the direction of legal and possibly even profitable. Good luck!
Ran across this page which is essentially a collection of mix tapes, including the cover art (very important). That the tape has become the cd has become the .mp3 - no matter. Nothing more exciting, to me, than getting a personal mix. This is a glimpse, a journey, straight in to the center of another human. Ignore the words flapping from their lips, check out the music. Special special.
There also is Muxtape, who as of late is in transformation. Their caterpillar state was a site where you could listen to user mixes, with a really nice colorful interface that didn't make you miss the cover art. Somehow. Alas, the more attention focused on the Muxtape folks, the more intellectual property right issues started popping up. Currently they exist in some hybrid state where they are getting popular indie band members to create short mixes, while also promoting their tracks. I give Muxtape the benefit of the doubt. I hope they find a way to stay true to their original vision. Judging from their current moves, they are going in the direction of legal and possibly even profitable. Good luck!
3/16/09
FAILE
www.faile.net/winter_09
Faile, the international artist collective based out of Brooklyn, celebrates in font and color the excesses of contemporary urban life. I think of this work as both inspired by and flipping off advertising. Visually sampling one attention grabbing graphic after another into georgeous, apoloyptic visions. Not too much here to not like, except maybe their success, if you are so inclined.
Faile, the international artist collective based out of Brooklyn, celebrates in font and color the excesses of contemporary urban life. I think of this work as both inspired by and flipping off advertising. Visually sampling one attention grabbing graphic after another into georgeous, apoloyptic visions. Not too much here to not like, except maybe their success, if you are so inclined.
3/14/09
SPIKE JONZE
www.vbs.tv/video.php?id=1137833099
The multi-talented Spike Jonze (music video directing, fancy pants wearing, hot hot talented ex-wife having, beard sporting, bad assing..) is now doing his part as a producer/creative director for Vice TV. Better known as VBS, the online media wing of the sprawling made-in-the-USA American Apparel hipster monopoly. The company that everyone loves to hate. The company with the print adds that offend everyone with boobs. Which I get and don't get. Conspiracy theories are so 1990's folks.
Regardless, VBS is really dope. Their programming is past gusty and mostly intelligent but always interesting. Vice's voice is unique, period, but especially in the online television sphere. Plus they are producing content that others lack either the ambition or balls to make happen. Check out their travel series. Can you say North Korea? When is the last time you saw a f*cking news crew north of the DMZ? Ganstas.
The first two episodes of Spike's Spends Saturday With, feature the inspired Kayne West and then MIA. For Kayne haters, of which there are too many, check out his episode and see if you feel any differently.
The multi-talented Spike Jonze (music video directing, fancy pants wearing, hot hot talented ex-wife having, beard sporting, bad assing..) is now doing his part as a producer/creative director for Vice TV. Better known as VBS, the online media wing of the sprawling made-in-the-USA American Apparel hipster monopoly. The company that everyone loves to hate. The company with the print adds that offend everyone with boobs. Which I get and don't get. Conspiracy theories are so 1990's folks.
Regardless, VBS is really dope. Their programming is past gusty and mostly intelligent but always interesting. Vice's voice is unique, period, but especially in the online television sphere. Plus they are producing content that others lack either the ambition or balls to make happen. Check out their travel series. Can you say North Korea? When is the last time you saw a f*cking news crew north of the DMZ? Ganstas.
The first two episodes of Spike's Spends Saturday With, feature the inspired Kayne West and then MIA. For Kayne haters, of which there are too many, check out his episode and see if you feel any differently.
3/9/09
SAM CHIVERS
www.samchivers.com/portfolio.html
Sam is a bloke drawing down in Bristol. His color and line work is masterful - just knowing he is out there doing this pushes me to work harder and more. The fact that he pulls off these detailed designs as silkscreens makes them even more beautiful.
He is involved somehow, cannot figure out exactly how, with these folks: www.peopleofprint.com, and makes for a nice side trip.
Sam is a bloke drawing down in Bristol. His color and line work is masterful - just knowing he is out there doing this pushes me to work harder and more. The fact that he pulls off these detailed designs as silkscreens makes them even more beautiful.
He is involved somehow, cannot figure out exactly how, with these folks: www.peopleofprint.com, and makes for a nice side trip.
3/4/09
DIESEL'S XXX PARTY CLIP
www.break.com/index/sfw-porn-clips.html
Perverted, funny & inspired. Not for those under 18 years. Unless you need a good laugh.
Perverted, funny & inspired. Not for those under 18 years. Unless you need a good laugh.
3/2/09
SACRED MTN
www.sacredmtn.com/
It can be a trick to walk in both the worlds of design and art. It shouldn't be, and many people tell you that it's not, but I think it is. Maybe that is changing. Some people pull it off well.
I first ran into the people/person behind Sacred Mtn at the San Francisco Zine fest in 2007. He/they were drinking beer at 11:30 in the morning and selling these D-O-P-E silkscreened posters. When I tried to buy one the interaction became really drawn out and convoluted and strange and then kinda charming. A couple years later I am a serious fan.
Sacred Mtn puts out some incredibly imaginative stuff, comfortably dipping across a handful of mediums. They tend to induce this stupid, blissed-out, child-like expression in people. Ridiculous. And genius. Luckily you can stumble over their handy-work in galleries, web videos, design shops, magazines, on tshirts etc.
Don't miss the effects reel on the OrdinaryKids site (www.ordinarykids.com). OrdinaryKids is a Bay Area design studio specializing in interactive story telling, motion graphics, fake manuals and print design. As well Sacred Mtn acted as their Creative Director for three years.
It can be a trick to walk in both the worlds of design and art. It shouldn't be, and many people tell you that it's not, but I think it is. Maybe that is changing. Some people pull it off well.
I first ran into the people/person behind Sacred Mtn at the San Francisco Zine fest in 2007. He/they were drinking beer at 11:30 in the morning and selling these D-O-P-E silkscreened posters. When I tried to buy one the interaction became really drawn out and convoluted and strange and then kinda charming. A couple years later I am a serious fan.
Sacred Mtn puts out some incredibly imaginative stuff, comfortably dipping across a handful of mediums. They tend to induce this stupid, blissed-out, child-like expression in people. Ridiculous. And genius. Luckily you can stumble over their handy-work in galleries, web videos, design shops, magazines, on tshirts etc.
Don't miss the effects reel on the OrdinaryKids site (www.ordinarykids.com). OrdinaryKids is a Bay Area design studio specializing in interactive story telling, motion graphics, fake manuals and print design. As well Sacred Mtn acted as their Creative Director for three years.
2/24/09
TAKAKO YAMAGUCHI
www.jancarjones.com/current/takako-yamaguchi/
I'm really really (really really) encouraging folks to take some time to see this magic little show of paintings by Takako Yamaguchi. Jumping off from the best of Op Art, without the annoying sandy rub, Yamaguchi mines the depths of California landscape painting through the lens of a surrealist. Opulent brushwork. Baroque, if sun bleached palette. Just get yer ass down there. Up through this Saturday, February 28th. Last week! Last week!
Even if you miss the current show, I strongly recommend visiting this unique little gallery in downtown San Francisco. Celebrating one year this month, Eric Renehan Jones and Ava Jancar have created a place with integrity. Close to the downtown gallery scene (á la 49 Geary and the museum ghetto) but with a spot of its own, taking the walk over to Jancar Jones Gallery is a must.
The building is reminiscent of a Haruki Murakami novel, where the character gets off an elevator on to a floor which doesn't really exist. The gallery occupies the mezzanine level down a long, long hallway. The interior space is intimate and oddly shaped - it has some resonance with Adobe Books Back Room gallery (3166 16th Street, San Francisco). If I was to believe in, or have more knowledge of, sacred geometry I might evoke a theory. But I'm not, nor do I.
Their first year of artists has been quirky and conceptual, without straying into the stinky pedantic and pretentious. Each show comes off with a level of freshness, and modest excitable energy. As my wife (Ingrid Keir, she has a name) is apt to say, "quiet storm." Keep your eye on this space and support them. One way that you can do this is via their artist prints, a series of affordable works on paper.
Jancar Jones Gallery
965 Mission, Suite 120
San Francisco, CA 94103
415-281-3770
Thursday-Saturday, noon-6pm & by appointment
www.jancarjones.com/
I'm really really (really really) encouraging folks to take some time to see this magic little show of paintings by Takako Yamaguchi. Jumping off from the best of Op Art, without the annoying sandy rub, Yamaguchi mines the depths of California landscape painting through the lens of a surrealist. Opulent brushwork. Baroque, if sun bleached palette. Just get yer ass down there. Up through this Saturday, February 28th. Last week! Last week!
Even if you miss the current show, I strongly recommend visiting this unique little gallery in downtown San Francisco. Celebrating one year this month, Eric Renehan Jones and Ava Jancar have created a place with integrity. Close to the downtown gallery scene (á la 49 Geary and the museum ghetto) but with a spot of its own, taking the walk over to Jancar Jones Gallery is a must.
The building is reminiscent of a Haruki Murakami novel, where the character gets off an elevator on to a floor which doesn't really exist. The gallery occupies the mezzanine level down a long, long hallway. The interior space is intimate and oddly shaped - it has some resonance with Adobe Books Back Room gallery (3166 16th Street, San Francisco). If I was to believe in, or have more knowledge of, sacred geometry I might evoke a theory. But I'm not, nor do I.
Their first year of artists has been quirky and conceptual, without straying into the stinky pedantic and pretentious. Each show comes off with a level of freshness, and modest excitable energy. As my wife (Ingrid Keir, she has a name) is apt to say, "quiet storm." Keep your eye on this space and support them. One way that you can do this is via their artist prints, a series of affordable works on paper.
Jancar Jones Gallery
965 Mission, Suite 120
San Francisco, CA 94103
415-281-3770
Thursday-Saturday, noon-6pm & by appointment
www.jancarjones.com/
2/23/09
THE ART BOOM IS OVER
www.nytimes.com/2009/02/15/arts/design/15cott.html?scp=22&sq=art&st=cse
A flawed, slightly fatalistic look at the history of American art during booms and busts. Something to think about and decide for yourself. Ultimately, having some perspective on all this shite is important. As people who make culture, and consume it.
This subject came up last night at my local bar, the Uptown. I was chatting with Brion Nuda Rosch, artist and bartender on Monday nights. I fessed up to making work specifically for the Miami Art Fair one year. Brion mentioned bending his art production schedule to be timed with Portland's Art Fair. Not that there is anything wrong with it, with art fairs, with selling work. More an acknowledgment of the reasons that we make art, and the factors that go into those decisions. By the way, I didn't sell a single a single piece from my Miami series.
A flawed, slightly fatalistic look at the history of American art during booms and busts. Something to think about and decide for yourself. Ultimately, having some perspective on all this shite is important. As people who make culture, and consume it.
This subject came up last night at my local bar, the Uptown. I was chatting with Brion Nuda Rosch, artist and bartender on Monday nights. I fessed up to making work specifically for the Miami Art Fair one year. Brion mentioned bending his art production schedule to be timed with Portland's Art Fair. Not that there is anything wrong with it, with art fairs, with selling work. More an acknowledgment of the reasons that we make art, and the factors that go into those decisions. By the way, I didn't sell a single a single piece from my Miami series.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)
