ART RANT™

INTERMEZZO

2012-01-10T20:48:00.000-08:00

ART RANT

2012-01-02T00:16:00.000-08:00

Find daily inspiration on My Tumblr

Movie Rant is my movie review Blog. Check it out!

INTERMEZZO

2012-01-01T14:05:00.000-08:00

Happy New Year 2012!

So many changes coming up, my cup is full. I have been on a year long sabbatical and taking care of family matters. This new year will bring all the radical changes we've been working so hard towards and some unexpected blessings from above. I wish everyone a wonderful new year full of hope and renewal.

ART RANT

2011-11-10T16:35:00.000-08:00

We got to hang out this past weekend with vocalist/writer and member of United Culture (a six piece Reggae Band) Francesca Smith. Every Wednesday, she hosts 'The Chillest Jam Session/ Open Mic/ Musicians' Exchange' in Hollywood Florida. Presented by Hollywood Free Flow at Megabite Chill out Lounge.

A fabulous weekly event featuring original music from an array of talented musicians, Francesca shared with us what you can expect every Wednesday night from 9pm to 2pm.

Art Rant: "What is the vibe of the show?and what kind of musicians and music do you feature"

Francesca Smith: "The motto of the show is: 'It's all about the music' and we strongly encourage original music from local artists. The goal is to provide a setting in which musicians/artists can meet, jam and network and for audiences to have a good time, enjoying local live music."

Art Rant: "Would you like to incorporate art/live painting in the shows?"

Francesca Smith: "Yes, we would love to have live art!!!!!"

Art Rant: "Where can artists contact you to participate in the weekly events?"

Francesca Smith: "All musicians, poets and artists are welcome. You can reach us by sending us a message on Facebook or by email or via text/tel. 786.553.3520

Location:
MEGABITE CHILL OUT LOUNGE
1910 Hollywood Blvd
Hollywood, FL 33020
http://www.megabitecybercafe.com/

I want to extend a special thanks to two people that have my back since day one and are instrumental to this jam: Neville Humphreys (bass and vocal) and Frank Stroobrandt (guitar)."

Check out some photos from past events. Enjoy!

Photos by: Francesca Smith, Dionette Kalkhofer.

ART RANT

2011-11-08T13:07:00.000-08:00

We've been exploring the art and music scene beyond Miami for the last few months. Ft. Lauderdale's Art Walk last Halloween weekend was great fun, good vibes, friendly people lots of gallery shows, music and food trucks.

Work of art at one of the many gallery shows that evening.

Kid Friendly fun for the whole family.

My niece got to play with an Atari video game installation. She loved it!

Meeting up with friends

Then, it was time to hit the food trucks and enjoy some music.

Check out more photos and info about The Day of the Dead processional and Celebration Festival in Ft. Lauderdale.

2011-11-04T08:54:00.000-07:00

We had a wonderful time celebrating Day of the Dead at Fat Village Art Studios in Ft. Lauderdale. I was so excited to participate in the Ofrendas art exhibit curated by Luis Angel Rodriguez.

Several amazing artists participated with Altar art pieces, celebrating different topics relating to life and Death. Participants included: Puppet Network/Jim Hammond, Luis Angel Rodriguez, Gina Moon, Brandi Carney, Claudia Sinta and Virginia Shuman Young Elementary School, NikAngel, Jade Masters, Mike & wife representing Nova High School, Raymond Hernandez, Rosalia Curbelo, Lisa Basini, Anonymous, Kristyn Bat, Wayne Rodgers, Anonymous.

My Altar was inspired by Marilyn Monroe. Her Mother Gladys Pearl Monroe was born on May 27, 1902, in Porfirio Diaz, Mexico, now Piedras Negras. Hollywood often kept the ethnicity of rising new stars a secret.

Gladys Pearl Monroe and a young Norma Jean (Marilyn Monroe)

Photo By: Francesca Smith

Special thanks to: Jade Masters, Claudia Sinta and Virginia Shuman Young Elementary School.

A very special thanks to the show's Curator, Luis Angel Rodriguez for making it happen!

Photo by: Francesca Smith

ART RANT

2011-10-11T13:57:00.000-07:00

INTERMEZZO

2011-10-06T15:33:00.000-07:00

INTERMEZZO

2011-09-23T16:27:00.000-07:00

Just messing around with animated GIFs. Walking the streets of our neighborhood at night.

BTW I will be participating in a group show called 'A Million Little Pictures' (AMLP) starting September 29th in Brooklyn.

A Million Little Pictures is a community-supported exhibition of snapshots captured around the world. Participants chose a theme and interpreted it via a single roll of film. The exhibitions weave the resulting photographs into an unbroken patchwork of images, covering the walls of the Photomobile — a traveling gallery-on-wheels.

Here are the dates:

Brooklyn, NY | Sept. 29th, 12pm - 9pm
Brooklyn Art Library
103A N. 3rd St., Brooklyn

Toronto, Canada | Oct. 1, 7pm - sunrise
Co-presented by Gallery 44 for the 2012 Nuit Blanche festival
Built for Art: The Rear Loading Dock
401 Richmond St. W., Toronto

Rochester, NY / Oct. 7, 10am - 4pm
Monroe Community College - Mercer Gallery
1000 E. Henrietta Rd., Rochester

Denver, CO | Nov. 4, 4pm - 9pm & Nov. 5, 11am - 4pm
Studio 12 Gallery
209 Kalamath St. #12, Denver

Los Angeles, CA | Nov. 18, 5pm - 10pm & Nov. 19, 12pm - 5pm
iam8bit
2147 W. Sunset Blvd
Los Angeles, CA 90026

So check it out if the show passes through your town!

ART RANT

2011-08-24T14:02:00.001-07:00

We had a wonderful time in Orlando for the Sketchbook Project Tour. The last show of the tour was held at Full Sail University and Studios in Orlando Florida, July 29th-31st 2011.

We started out by attending the opening show of the tour in Brooklyn NY in February, and followed the tour online, enjoying more than one hundred amazing books. The Sketchbook Project promoted an incredible sense of community and positive energy, overall a wonderful artistic collaboration.

Check out the participant artist's sketchbooks, Digital Library.

Artists sketchbooks we checked out include: Dunielle Vujas, Becky Lowe, Alicia Gisante, Alessandra Placucci, Jenny Kadis, Gene Suchma, Dario Lazzaretto and Jill Adams.

Next year The sketchbook Project returns with a world wide tour that includes Great Britain, Canada and Australia. Sign up and be a part of this global art movement.

The Sketchbook Project - NikAngel (In Flight) from Nikangel on Vimeo.

Opening of the Sketchbook Tour in Brooklyn New York 2011.

Thank you so much to the crew and organizers at the Art House Co-Op/Sketchbook Project Tour for a great time, we will see you next year!

ART RANT

2011-07-19T12:54:00.000-07:00

I often meet and exchange art with other artists. Eventually, I would love to have a gallery show featuring the art I have gathered from artists around the world. Here's the latest exchange between myself and photographer Edin Chavez My choice, a print: 'Naples on the Gulf'
an instant vacation.

Edin opted for an explosive Mystery Box. A sculptural head laced with fireworks inspired by 'Dia de los Muertos' (Mexico) to be set on fire at his leisure.

FIESTA!!!

For more photos and helpful links join my art page on Facebook

Nik Angel Art

ART RANT

2011-06-02T21:31:00.000-07:00

Video Sketch of Collaborative work between Julia Veli (Designer) and Nikangel. Preview of future hanging installation, the sketches are Nikangel originals and the garment was crafted by Julia Veli out of recycled cardboard show flyers. Original music by Nikangel and Ben Belin (Petunio)

Create your own video slideshow at animoto.com.

INTERMEZZO

2011-04-26T19:10:00.000-07:00

Courtesy of Belle Époque Europe

Intermission Card for Motion Pictures, 1912.

ART RANT

2011-03-22T22:12:00.000-07:00

I had a wonderful time in Brooklyn New York, for my first major group show The Sketchbook Project. Over 28,000 artists from around the world participated. The Brooklyn Art Library hosted the reception party, and they are taking the sketchbooks on tour around the United States throughout the summer. I am so excited to be a part of this amazing project, it has inspired the next phase of my work by sharing positive energy, with like minded individuals, within a great community working towards promoting growth and individuality through the arts.

Official Sketchbook Tour Schedule

Nikangel (In Flight) Online Submission

The Sketchbook Project - NikAngel (In Flight) from Nikangel™ on Vimeo.

ART RANT

2011-03-16T19:15:00.000-07:00

In support of the people of Japan after the devastating earthquake and tsunami of March 11th
lend your help and please donate.

James White made this poster. All profits made by the sale will be donated to help relief efforts in Japan.

American Red Cross
Animal Help
Lady GaGa Earthquake Relief Wrist Band
United Way Miami
Canada: Text REDCROSS to 30333 to donate $10
USA: Text REDCROSS to 90999 to donate $10
Ireland: Text REDCROSS to 57500 to donate €5

ART RANT

2011-02-14T13:32:00.000-08:00

Happy Valentine's Day!
Sometimes I draw with light when the power goes out in my neighborhood.

Enjoy!

Making Future Magic: iPad light painting from Dentsu London on Vimeo.

INTERMEZZO

2011-01-27T14:54:00.000-08:00

Hello my art friends from around the world! I am so excited to let you know about my Etsy Art Store. There are a few designer pieces for sale, but I still have tons of other items I need to showcase in a wide range of prices. (coming soon!) So take a look, I'm still uploading new items daily so check it out regularly and have fun!

As a special gift to my readers use this code: NIKANGEL667 for a 50% off discount on all items.

Thank you for your support!

Nikangel ETSY

Featured item - Red Vinyl Glitter Chair

ART RANT

2011-01-17T12:40:00.000-08:00

Edin Chavez - Photographer Miami, Fl.

What do you strive for during the photo editing process?

I strive for perfection. I like to give my photographs a certain mystique something you can relate to on a personal level.

What photographic subject do you enjoy the most?

I really like photographing abandoned places, I always feel welcome at these spots it's
a sense of belonging.

From your perspective, What defines photo perfection?

I love a clear photo bright in colors and high in contrast.

The dolls in your images, what do they represent?

I like to put dolls in my photos to make your imagination run wild, most people see it as creepy, but I find it beautiful.

Do you look for a particular mood to guide your shots?

I do look for a mood on all my shots. The mood usually represents my state of mind.
If I am happy I go shoot a beautiful scenic view, if I feel lonely I go shoot a faceless self portrait, at an abandoned place. It always depends on my mood.

ART RANT

2010-12-19T16:30:00.000-08:00

The second show I had during Art Basel was at Awarehouse located in Wynwood/Art District in Miami. Curated by Hilda Molano.

Music Sets by :
Rebel
People From Venus
OrganicArma
Brett Thorngren
Joce Milanes

Artists:

Psyberpixie
Gregory Robin
Sean Ritchwood
Tambo-Nation
NikAngel
Jona Cerwinske
Delta{morph} Monica L. Travis
Zusel Escribá
Nicole Soden
Rodrigo Arcaya
Gorka Cortázar
Jason Peterman
Yuri Tuma

DJ
Saul Good

www.awarehousemiami.com
hilda@awarehousemiami.com
Office: 305.576.4004

Golden Usher and Golden Hostess available for purchase on Etsy

ART RANT

2010-12-13T18:30:00.000-08:00

OH HAI THERE!
Here's a re-cap of my participation during Miami's fabulous Art Basel week.

First Palm Island's Art Basel kickoff party Gold for Life 2010.
The exhibition was in benefit of two very special charities: A Gift for Life , which funds research for pediatric cancer and United Aliens Artists Foundation, which funds art classes, helping underprivileged children find therapy through art. Presented by The Jills and Hope Gainer.

Art Installation Golden Hostess and Golden Usher welcomed guests to the Villa.

Photo by: Nikangel

VIP Guests mingle with The Golden Hostess
Photo by: Jorge Isaza

Lily Isaza, Nikangel, Benjamin Belin
Photo by: Jorge Isaza

Mr. & Mrs. Belin
Photo by: Jorge Isaza

Art Rant Staff: Mr. & Mrs. Isaza
Photos for Art Rant by: Jorge Isaza

ART RANT

2010-12-01T20:16:00.000-08:00

Art Rant observes World AIDS Day

INTERMEZZO

2010-11-20T10:47:00.000-08:00

I am participating in the Sketchbook Project 2011: Thousands of sketchbooks will be exhibited at galleries and museums as they make their way on tour across the country.

After the tour, all sketchbooks will enter into the permanent collection of The Brooklyn Art Library, where they will be barcoded and available to the public for viewing and check out. I will be submitting new pages regularly. Also check out the tour listing to see my work when it reaches your city! Sketchbook

INTERMEZZO

2010-11-13T01:14:00.000-08:00

Art Rant!!!

ART RANT

2010-10-31T07:38:00.000-07:00

Trick or Treat! Happy Halloween!!!Fun little video fan art for Cooties Attack!
Poster by: MCR/Electric Otto

Cooties Attack! - Zombies!!! from Nikangel™ on Vimeo.

INTERMEZZO

2010-10-27T17:54:00.000-07:00

COMING THIS HALLOWEEN COOTIES ATTACK! ZOMBIES!!!
A NIKANGEL FAN ART VIDEO.

COOTIES ATTACK!

Zombie Chic - Oil on Canvas

INTERMEZZO

2010-10-21T14:50:00.000-07:00

Art Basel Miami (December 2nd-5th 2010) is almost here, I am participating in the Art Takes Miami Competition. Please vote for my painting HERE

For more information about entry and deadline go to Art Takes Miami.
Thank you for your support!

ART RANT

2010-10-10T10:37:00.000-07:00

"My verse is the true image of my Mind, Ever in motion, still desiring change: And as thus, to variety inclined; So in all humours sportively I range! My Muse is rightly of the English strain, That cannot long one fashion entertain." - Michael Drayton

The Muse Crysi de Milo - Acrylic on canvas

ART RANT

2010-08-20T14:19:00.000-07:00

Today I bring you Event Photographer from Los Angeles California, Joanne Bard Cox. Enjoy!

From: "Jimmy and Norma"

How did you get interested in photography?

As far back as my memory takes me, I always wanted a camera. It wasn’t until 2005 that my husband bought me my first digital Minolta. I began as most people by taking pictures of everything! I began to discover that as long as I had my camera in hand, I had much joy in my heart. In 2007 I took my first photography class and although I have much to learn I’m learning everyday. I will be taking my first digital photography class this fall and I can hardly wait!

From: "Film"

What camera are you currently using?
Canon 40D

From "Prom"

What subjects most inspire you?

I am most inspired by the human spirit and the many emotions that flood from the heart. My desire is to capture the beauty in an individual- whether it is in their sadness, joy, gracefulness or fear. I want to capture what I see, what I feel and most importantly what the subject is expressing. To give someone the gift of a photograph that expresses what they feel in there heart is priceless. To leave a story behind for generations to see, to capture the true essence of an individual, to capture a moment in time that will never be repeated. As a photographer I want to express your heart in every photograph I take.

From: "My little Jon"

Check out Joanne's blog
Always Love

For events and Photo shoots contact Joanne at
Joannebcox@yahoo.com

Up Next: Book Tour

INTERMEZZO

2010-08-12T14:01:00.000-07:00

Back in Miami, I collaborated on a Los Angeles, David Lynch, inspired horror movie project that was entered in a couple of contests including Rob Zombie's Halloween Horror Nights Scary Competition which will draw to a close Saturday August 14 2010. Check it out!

Love Spell from Nikangel™ on Vimeo.

ART RANT

2010-08-12T00:50:00.000-07:00

I had a wonderful time at the Long Beach Experiment art and music show this summer. I participated along with other artists, to exhibit and make artwork available for purchase. Curated by K. Howell, This is a one night only type of event that runs the first, third and fifth Wednesday of the month at The Cellar in Long Beach California. To learn more or be a part of this on going art festival, please contact K. Howell at Shows at the long Beach Experiment.

Long Beach Experiment MYSPACE

Long Beach Experiment FACEBOOK

I also participated by donating an art piece to the 'Not So Silent Auction', a charity event curated by K. Howell to benefit the Gulf Spill Clean-Up. This show took place at Studio Sinaloa in Pasadena California.

Up Next: Photographer Joanne Bard Cox

2010-06-27T21:22:00.000-07:00

Photo by Xela Zaid

Today I bring you Miami's own Xela Zaid. Although he is mainly known as a singer/song writer Xela Zaid is a true Renaissance man. A talented, kind and unique individual, his success is measured by the admiration held by his contemporaries. Please enjoy another facet of Alex Diaz.

You have mentioned an interest in the visual arts since the 80's, what has inspired you to pick up where you left off?

I feel at this moment in my life its great to be surrounded by young people who are excited about making art in this city, it really is inspiring and infectious. I feel a renewed enthusiasm for art and I'm grateful to be collaborating with different people on a variety of projects incorporating visual, musical, dance and performance elements. Its amazing how we come full circle and blend all our talents into one, Ialso believe Miami finally has an art scene with lots of talented artists that are experimenting with different ideas that keep fueling the creative energy here. Another motivation for me, is to bring artistic balance into my life and blend different art forms with my musical ideas.

Untitled

How do you express a correlation between visual arts and music?

I feel the visual and musical are so interconnected. I love experimenting with different lighting schemes and colors, using black and white films as backdrops for performances, as well as incorporating performance art and dance, costumes and make up.I love creating a vibe or setting a tone in a room, you feel people naturally gravitate to the performance. I love the abstract realm or taking an uncommon approach, that is where I find unique and original ideas. I love to challenge myself to do something different, take myself out of the comfort zone and do things that allow me to grow as an artist and not stagnate artistically. I also have grown to appreciate being subtle, almost taking a minimalistic, less is more approach to the creative process and allowing the idea to come through and express itself, that to me is otherworldly which fascinates me and inspires me to create art.

Experimental set - Loves of a Blonde (Original footage directed by Miloš Forman)

What is the role of the artist in society?

For me personally it has been the vehicle of soul, to explore and express all that comes through me, from me and others, an escape from the reality or the non reality of this world and to seek the true reality within, and share that experience for the love of art and humanity.
As artists, I truly feel we are free to say and do whatever we want, I love that liberty to express myself, its such a healthy release for me, it keeps me sane and in touch on many levels with my inner being. The artists that have inspired me are the ones who were able to effect achange on humanity through their art, and were not afraid to take chances artistically and expand the boundaries of self expression through art. We all have the ability and the opportunity to express the genius within us and to witness the process can be a magical experience.

Untitled

What ideas or thoughts do you tend to convey with film experimentation?

I try to act as a bridge and help people explore a world within themselves and film is a great vehicle for that. We all seem to play our own unique roles in life it seems and I love tapping into that imaginary world intuitively and the feedback I receive is always an interesting and enlightening experience.
I'm a romantic, I love mystery and I'm naturally drawn to dreamworld settings and fantasy stories.
I'm very much a child at heart, that is my escape and I love creating an imaginary world where I can play. The older I get, the more I choose to seek and express the inner child, its a new being, and its giving birth to new ideas within me and within each and everyone of us.

Untitled

Do you usually have a direction you choose with visual arts, or is it the process that leads your work?

I explore the world through my feelings and that is what I strive to express and stay true to.
I follow my heart or gut feeling and that is what leads me, the moment, the now is a wonderful blank canvas ready for color and ready to be expressed and I use my mind as a creative tool, in balance with my feelings, which at times can be difficult to achieve, but the rewards are filled with infinite possibilities. I think the process is so important and should be truly appreciated, it should never be taken for granted or overlooked. I love seeing how an idea grows and evolves into the final product, it is always interesting to observe and recognize each moment and stage of its creation, which also allows us to develop spiritually and become self aware individuals.

Up Next: The Long Beach Experiment

INTERMEZZO

2010-06-15T21:41:00.000-07:00

I am having a most wonderful time in L.A. Tomorrow, I will be participating in a group show curated
by K. Howell at The Long Beach Experiment , California.

Facebook Los Angeles Emerging Artists

Invite

ART RANT

2010-06-07T16:16:00.000-07:00

As the school year comes to an end, a group of my art students From Citrus Grove Elementary got the opportunity to compete and be selected to participate in their first gallery Art show in support of Standup for Kids, a charity that benefits homeless kids in Miami-Dade County.

Standup for Kids presented Art is Life at the BakehouseArt Complex on Friday, May 28, 2010. Art is Life's second annual night celebrated the power of art to support youth homelessness in Miami where more than three thousand children are registered as homeless within the public school system. We enjoyed an elegant and inspiring evening of food, drink, great entertainment and chances to bid and win wonderful prizes. Art is Life is all about new opportunities for the future, for both homeless youth and the people who are committed to helping them.

Bakehouse Art Complex

Artists Nicole Soriano and Valerie Abello

Artist Works: "The Day You Ran away" by Anisleivys Gil and Valerie Abello from Citrus Grove Elementary.

Artist Valerie Abello and Artist Nicole Soriano with her family.

Artists Works: "The Day You Ran Away" by: Jessica Garcia, Leysman Tejeda and Nicole Soriano from Citrus Grove Elementary

Mrs. Belin with her students Nicole Soriano and Valerie Abello

"As their art teacher, I am extremely proud of their achievement in class and within their community."

Students from G.K.E. Sabal Palm Elementary and Citrus Grove Elementary with Artist Maria Sonia Martin.

Many thanks to the children, families, the resident artists, Stand-Up For Kids, Citrus Grove Elementary and the Bakehouse Art Complex. Please check out more coverage of the event at Soul Of Miami .

Citrus Grove Elementary

Maria Sonia Martin

Stand-Up for Kids

The Bakehouse Art Complex

G.K.E Sabal Palm Elementary

Miami-Dade County Public Schools

Photos by: Nikangel and Benjamin Belin

ART RANT

2010-04-22T20:20:00.000-07:00

I had a most wonderful time in London for ART PARTY 2010.

This artistic collaboration between Victoria Archer and I was in benefit of War Child International, an organization committed to helping children affected by war all around the world.

War Child Supporter and Collaborator Victoria Archer (L) and Nikangel (R)

War Child is a non-governmental organization founded by British filmmakers Bill Leeson and David Wilson in 1993, which focuses on providing assistance to children in areas of conflict and post-conflict. Shocked by the plight of children, they decided to use their film and entertainment background to raise money for aid agencies operating in former Yugoslavia.

War Child has expanded their field of operations to include some of the other thirty wars and conflicts that are currently affecting millions of children around our planet.War Child still continues to use the enormous support it receives from the media, music and entertainment industries to raise, not only much needed funds, but also public awareness of the daily struggle for survival facing children in war zones. With famous artists like Brian Eno, David Bowie, Our Lady Peace, Luciano Pavarotti and Tom Stoppard backing the War Child cause at the start-up of the organization. Events like Little Pieces from Big Stars, Pagan Fun Wear and in 1995 the record-breaking release of The Help Album made it possible for War Child to start projects in the former Yugoslavia.

Since 1993 many other famous artists like Paul McCartney, Paul Weller, Oasis, Radiohead, David Bowie, U2, Anton Corbijn, Tegan and Sara, Eric Clapton, Marco Borsato, Bob Geldof, Iggy Pop, Avril Lavigne,Sum 41, and many others have joined the War Child cause.

In 2005, to mark the 10th anniversary of The Help Album, War Child UK launched Help!: A Day in the Life. In addition to Radiohead and Manic Street Preachers, the new album features artists such as Coldplay,Bloc Party, Gorillaz, Elbow, Feeder and Kaiser Chiefs, along with Keane who are current patrons of War Child UK. Another compilation album, Heroes, was released in February 2009.

War Child Fundraiser Officer Charlotte Minvielle (R) and Nikangel (L) at War Child's Ambassadors Cocktail Party.

Please join War Child and help our global community.

Join here

Facebook

Angry Mob

Twitter

Myspace

YouTube

Flickr

The Photography exhibit by artists Victoria Archer and Nikangel featured 24 pieces. The set depicted the British country side in contrast to Miami's metropolis.

Castlerigg

Please Check out Victoria Archer's Art Party 2010 set

Miami Skyline

Please check out Nikangel's AP2010 set

Our Performing band for the event was Bruce Springsteen, Harry Potter, Zombie loving Cooties Attack! who reunited for a special one night only performance in London.

Art Party Ustream Recording
Stream videos at Ustream

Many thanks to Club Cable and Benjamin Belin

Mr. and Mrs. Belin at War Child's Ambassadors cocktail party.

INTERMEZZO

2010-03-09T20:49:00.000-08:00

Special thanks to The Wallflower Gallery for all the years serving the community and the arts in Downtown Miami. Best Wishes for the future.

ART RANT

2010-02-28T19:58:00.000-08:00

Today we bring you a look into Magic City Production Group Launch Party. This event celebrated all types of local artists, painters, photographers, dancers, musicians, caterers, florists and fashion designers. Magic City Production group is a creative mill headed by Tati Bengochea, President and organizer of the event.

Hosted by: Agustina Prigoshin and Ulises Orozco Production Director: Daniel Trimino Models: Carolina Collado, Vanessa Llambes, Yaneys Sotomayor, Elizabeth Reyes Hair & Makeup for dancers and models Qui Hair Salon

Nikangel's Plastic Girls ~ Mother Nature, The Diety, Angel & Nik.

President of Magic City Production Group Tati Bengochea with Artist Nikangel

For a Full list of credits please visit Magic City Production Facebook Group

Magic City Production Group Blog

Please contact Magic City Production Group for your special event.
Tatiana bengochea, President
MagicCityProduction.com
tati.bengochea@gmail.com
305.458.2653

Up Next: ART PARTY 2010 LONDON

ART RANT

2010-02-13T15:05:00.000-08:00

Dearest readers, I bring you today a special Valentine's Day weekend interview with Fashion Artist
Julia Veli, who uses all recycled materials such as paper, newspaper and canvas to create her fashion pieces.

Photo by: Camilo Villota

What have you been up to since your last show?

Well, my last show was actually at Louis on Jan 23^rd where I launched the official Julia Veli collection which I call JennyLu after my mom. It was so much fun because I was able to design straight from my imagination with inspirations from my day to day life and I also added canvas to my materials that I design with which I love. Since then I have had several photographers who have been shooting with my designs and am actually moving up to nyc next month to continue to grow my line!

Photo by: Sean Murdock

When is your next show?

I am not sure but I will probably be doing something in early March for my going away party….but don’t worry Miami, I love you and I will be back all the time!! :D

Fashion Artist Julia Veli

Photo by: Sean Murdock

What can we expect from Julia Veli in the future?

Well you can definitely expect to see me and my work pop up in several places. I have many great connections in NYC which is why I have to go there. I want to make a name for myself, so between my website www.shoebizness.com and my Julia Veli fashion art, you can expect to see and hear more and more from me!!

I am so excited about the future and sharing my passion of living art with the world over the upcoming months and really appreciate the support that the people in Miami have given me especially since I basically came out of nowhere. I hope one day to inspire those who may have a crazy idea to just go for it because you have nothing to lose but time and it flies, so do it!

Facebook

YouTube

Julia Veli

Shoe Bizness

Fashion Show
(show photos by: Tomas Loewy)

Next: Tati Bengochea

INTERMEZZO

2010-02-03T08:55:00.000-08:00

Greetings & Salutations! I do have one more art show in town before I leave for London. This group show celebrates Magic City Production Group Launch Party February 13th at Klutch Nightclub Miami Beach.

Come Party with us, it's going to be a great evening.

For more info
Magic City Production Group Facebook

INTERMEZZO

2010-01-29T22:11:00.000-08:00

ART PARTY PRESS RELEASE
Free Press Release

2009-12-27T20:47:00.000-08:00

I hope you're having a most wonderful holiday season. To close out the year, we bring you a very special interview with british artist Vincent Mckoy.

Tell us a bit about your current projects.

Over the last few months I have been occupied with a slightly unusual commission called “The Greatest” the title and subject matter is that of the owner, the composition is mine. Soon I will be posting a video were you can see the painting process from start to finish in time laps. As the title implies the subject matter is three of the greats.

The Greatest

The next painting that I should be doing is for the charity The Rhys Daniels Trust; they have auctioned a painting or portrait to be done by me. I’m waiting to get the details of the unsuspecting highest bidder and hope to be starting the mysterious project in the up coming weeks. At the same time I will be starting to prepare an exhibition for the end of next year on the theme of water and reflections, something on the line of my paintings Equanimity or Distortion (Perturbation). I have no fixed dates set.

I also have in mind to do one more Michael Jackson tribute painting reflecting his significant moments from the past fifty years.

Equanimity

Precious

Distortion

Your paintings echo a certain romanticism, what artists of the Victorian era had the most influence on your earlier work.

Elation

No artist in particular! As a child from a working class family growing up in seventies London, art was not the general topic of conversation over the dinner table. We did however have several Victorian prints about the house. We had Thomas Gainsborough’s The Red Boy, Charles Burton Barber’s A Special Pleader and the one that fascinated me most but I can’t remember the name of, nor the artist, was of a group of girls in a field, one of the girls is offering an apple to a horse with one hand and has a bridle behind her back in the other. Chocolate boxes, biscuit tins and jigsaw puzzles all seemed to have Victorian paintings depicted. So growing up, art to me was Victorian paintings and portraits!

Bridesmaid

Ballerina by Moonlight

Michael Jackson commissioned several paintings for his private collection, how did that come about?

As long as I can remember I had been an admirer of Michael Jackson and it was actually a portrait that I did of Michael, was my first attempt at an oil painting which inspired me to become an artist. The painting seemed so realistic. Before that I had been painting murals on a government training scheme, really basic stuff. I dedicated the next year or so to practising my art. And soon began to build a reputation as a portraitist and painter of romantic figurative work.

In the early nineties word had gotten to the ears of Adrian Grant the writer and Michael Jackson biographer, he asked me to create a painting that was to be presented to Michael as an appreciation award from his fans. I spent two month creating the piece which was a montage of fifteen images. I wasn’t able to go to the presentation at the time but Michael phoned to thank me and we chatted a while. A couple of days later he asked if I could do two more paintings and he sent me over some photos from which to copy. Then in 1997 Adrian Grant, now a close friend to Michael and knowing of his love for art commissioned me to do one more painting and we presented to Michael February 12th, 1998 on his son Prince's birthday.

MJ with Crown

MJ Montage

You are also a dancer and impersonator who've performed around the world, what drives that passion for the stage?

In the first place lets say that I am a very shy person, extremely quiet and by all appearances calm.

With the painting I can reflect this part of me, but it’s through dance that I can express my other side. It’s precisely impersonations that give me freedom to express my deeper inner feelings without having to worry about appearances as I am hiding behind other personalities.

What is the meaning behind the painting Scarlet?

Well, really now after so many years looking at this painting I can see that there could be a lot more then what I had in mind when I painted it.

It was a time of change in my life, a time of important decisions… And so, at that time it was just a question of contrasts, I thought that red and blue made a good combination for a series of paintings and little more.

Now, I could talk about the significance, like moments of fractured tranquillity or give the red the symbolism of passion and talk about the contradictions, of which there are many. But I may be lying…

Scarlet

Please check out Vincent Mckoy
Watch Vincent Perform Deception Duo
And check out Vincent at work on the creation of "The Greatest" on Video

Up Next: Designer Julia Veli

INTERMEZZO

2009-12-23T12:48:00.000-08:00

What's in the Box?
A special treat from Nikangel, a delightfully intriguing box of mystery, sure to amaze entertain and become a collector's item. Find out what's in it!
Click ☟

ART RANT

2009-12-16T20:18:00.000-08:00

Today I bring you a most delightful article featuring Photographer/Educator Kymberli Drum .

What attracted you to specialize on family portrait photography?

When Gwyneth was born my mom and dad gave me a point and shoot camera. I used it to constantly, thinking I took the most amazing photos. I put her in poses and outfits and when she could walk, followed her around relentlessly. I had friends that admired my work and I'd practice on them as well. This was still only using the point and shoot. I eventually worked my way up to a DSLR. It was even worse for my poor kids at that point. I guess what attracts me the most is knowing how moms and dads feel when they see their child in a photo. You can capture a lot of love and emotion when you photograph families.

Do your pupils inspire your work?

I think my own kids inspire my work more than my pupils. They are nice to practice on, though. I have so many different races and ethnicities in my classroom, it's a nice change to look through the lens at some diversity. I use photos a lot in my classroom. Kids love to see themselves and I think using photos in the classroom helps enhance learning.

How have you influenced or encouraged your children to explore photography?

My daughter has her own camera (she's six), but she is much more interested in my camera phone. I love going back and looking at what she's taken photos of. Her perspective is so different than mine. I mean, she's short! She takes photos at different angles and things just take on a look when she shoots. Both of my kids like using my flip video camera, too. I can always find some funny videos after they have had their hands on my camera.

Photo by: Gwyn Drum

What do you like to emphasize on your family portraits?

Togetherness. And silliness if I'm lucky enough to get a family that is willing to open up some. My favorite photos are those of families being natural and together and loving each other.

What are your artistic influences? favorite photographers?

I just discovered LFP photography recently. The writer for the blog left a note on my blog. I just love the quirky photos.

I also love:

Lena Hyde
Tara Whitney
Courtney Ortiz (her photos make me want to move back to South Florida)

Please check out

Kymberli Drum Photography Flickr
Kymberli Drum Myspace
Kymberli Drum Facebook
Kymberli Drum Photography The Beginning

Up Next: Artist Vincent Mckoy

INTERMEZZO

2009-12-11T18:24:00.000-08:00

Today we feature Artistic Playing Card Decks.

The fashion playing cards series by Connie Lim.

Series

Playing Card Design

Brian Berg is the undisputed master of playing card sculpture. He creates massive structures simply by expertly stacking playing cards – never bending, gluing, folding, taping or otherwise manipulating the cards to achieve these amazing effects.

Have a great weekend!

ART RANT

2009-12-02T22:57:00.000-08:00

I had a most fabulous time at The ECO-Artland event on 5 Star Island, for Art Basel Week Kickoff.
The location: The home of our splendid host, 'TK' (Mr. Thomas Kramer ) in support of Eco- Friendliness and the arts.

Our gracious host Mr. Thomas Kramer (L)

And behind every great event, there's a great event coordinator/Curator Hope Gainer of HOPE International is the hottest event producer on Star Island. Watching her put this event together was nothing short of amazing.

Hope Gainer and Nikangel

Here are some picture highlights.

Paparazzo: Jorge Isaza

Models wearing Recycled Fashions by designer Julia Kreibich.

Mark @ The Electric Bicycle Store.com

DJ Galaxy Girl Spinning for the event.

Jeannette Claudine Romeu

Cleveland Jones Band

The Caterers and Chefs provided delicious food and wine for the evening.

Bacardi Superior Rum , Martini & Rossi Prosecco , Eno's Wine Bar O.N.E. Drinks , Icelandic Glacial Water , Grass Restaurant and Lounge, Jorge Vargas @ Winesellers Ltd.

Grow Miami.org has named their edible art, Art Basil made of basil leaves.

Micro-green salads with edible flowers compliments of Rock Garden Herbs mixed by Chef Tano @ Passion of life Gourmet

The unbelievable artwork was Eco- friendly and environmentally conscious. “I felt this was a year to make a statement about our planet in a creative setting, while both entertaining and educating the art community. Rather than showcasing expensive, unaffordable art, I felt it was more relevant to showcase art with a message.” Hope Gainer -

The event benefited Take Stock in Children a non-profit organization providing Mentors, Scholarships and Hope to deserving children. www.takestockinchildren.org

Jorge Fernandez Artwork 'Rainforest Parking lot' in collaboration with landscape architect Harry Nelson and Tomas Loewy. Artists Sonia Siesholtz, Jorge Fernandez, Carol Adrianza.

Artist Carol Adrianza , currently showing at MOCA

French artist, Marc Hubert D'Ge 'Each Man Kills the Things he Loves'

Showing a stuffed Hammerhead shark upon which he projected images from the home movie created byYann Arthus-Bertrand , photographer & Goodwill Ambassador for the United Nations Environment Program and chosen as "2009 Environmental Hero" by Time Magazine and the founder of GoodPlanet Foundation (www.goodplanet.org), a non profit environmental organization created to raise public awareness of environmental protection and to bring concrete solutions to the Earth's ecological crisis.

Artists: Harry Nelson, Mary Aline MacDonald, Michael Thomas Diaz , Stephen Gamson, Frankie Ollervides.

VIP Guests and the Art of Maria Arminda Palacio.

Steven and Katisuka
Designers: Esmeralda Collection by Marcella Acosta, Goddess Collection by Marjorie Andrade.

VIP Guests

Flash Curator for The Wallflower Gallery , Artist Beth Schwartz, Musician Ben Belin , Nikangel.

'Mère Nature' Art piece by artist Nikangel

Nikangel and the girls Lily Isaza, Laura Londono
Angel and Nik Mannequins On exhibit at The Wallflower Gallery now through February 26, 2010.

VIP Guests mingle with the art work.

Luxsecret

VIP Guests

Art Rant Staff

Benjamin Belin and Angelica Belin

ABOUT HOPE INTERNATIONAL: Hope International is spearheaded by Hope Gainer. This global marketing and imagemaking company originally from NYC is currently based in Miami . It has produced Art Basel Miami Beach events each year for clients including UBS as well as events for Miami City Ballet, New World Symphony and Miami Boat Shows. Its Art Basel Week events have always gotten a buzz for being the most spectacular including the ones held at Casa Blanca on Hibiscus Island and the I.M.Pei designed Bank of America building in downtown Miami . Previously, Hope International has worked on events at the White House, the Kremlin and Sydney Opera House for Australia ’s Bicentennial, Cannes Film Festival, Monaco Grand Prix and Argentine Polo Open. Gainer is focused on the global luxury market and brings a multi-cultural perspective to her work. She is passionate about the international art movement in Miami intensified by the presence of Art Basel Miami Beach and created and curated this “Eco Artland 2009” event. She felt it was the right concept for today’s times and hopes to bring attention to the importance of taking care of our planet through this creative outlet. www.ehopeinternational.com

ABOUT THOMAS KRAMER: German entrepreneur, Thomas Kramer is truly one of a kind! He is a controversial figure who burst onto the Miami Beach scene with a visionary point of view transforming South Beach in numerous ways with both his bigger than life personality and real estate developments. Most famous for his South Pointe developments including Portofino Towers , he now has his sites set on bringing the South Beach lifestyle with developments on other shores from Brazil to India . www.thomaskramer.com

Please check out these links.
Haute Living
Soul Of Miami
ECO ArtLand
Hope International Photos
Zenfolio Tomas Loewy
South Beach Star
Life is Art

ART RANT

2009-11-20T17:22:00.001-08:00

Hello, I am most excited to post about my good friend and colleague Ms. Victoria Archer.

How does your city influence your photos?

Hadrian's Wall

My city is a pretty small place and, having spent almost my whole life here, it's familiar to the point where I can forget to pay attention to it. My challenge when I take my camera out is to really look at where I am. There's a lot of history here, and some gorgeous nooks and crannies to explore. It influences me in that it helped teach me how to look for small things, and to look again and again in the hope of finding something new. The cathedral is somewhere that I think I'll always find something new, mainly because every time I go in it takes my breath away. I don't feel 100% happy with any of my photos of it so far, although I think I do a better job with it now than I used to. It's my ongoing challenge.

Castlerigg Stone Circle, just outside of Keswick

Derwentwater

Do your pupils inspire your work in any way?

The really simple answer? No! I love my work and learn a lot of things from the pupils, but they don't have a direct impact on my photography. Honestly, it's not something I really share with them. Perhaps I should.

Tell me a bit about your love of film.

Cinema as an art form fascinates me. I teach A Level Media/Film Studies and my favourite lessons are when the students start to grasp how deliberately a film has been put together and want to talk about what they've figured out. I love how film has changed over time, and how different it can be in different cultures. I have an enormous soft spot for dreadful Hollywood blockbusters, but relish something a bit subtler and more intelligent to make me think. Or just something gorgeous to indulge in visually (2046, Sunshine, Harry Potter films!). Sci-fi is the genre that most consistently interests me (Blade Runner, The Matrix, The Fountain) but I go through phases of mainlining other genres and sub-genres. I'm not an expert in anything, but have enjoyed dipping my toes into things like silent cinema (I'm a huge Rudolph Valentino fan and I love Louise Brooks too) including German Expressionist works; Bollywood; and Japanese horror. I'm currently enjoying a period of Asian TV doramas and British social realist texts. It's more fun than it sounds. :P

National Media Museum

What inspired you to do 'The Circle series'?

When I first started taking photos, I really wasn't sure what I was doing or why. I registered on flickr in 2004 and at that time there was a very popular group called 'Squared Circle'. The idea was that you took a photo of something circular and cropped it into a square. I loved the simplicity of the idea, of the contrast between the two shapes, and it was the first thing that caught my attention and got me to try something new out. So I took lots of terrible pictures of circular things and submitted them to the group. The real magic was in clicking for the slide show and watching all the ordinary, everyday objects turn into art.

I sort of forgot about the group after a while (I got out of the habit of taking pictures with groups in mind, or of adding them to groups in general) but it was the first thing that really got me interested in more than snapping what was in front of me. A couple of my photos - the watch face and the bowl of summer fruit - were used in 'Digital Art Photography for Dummies' but I'm still not really sure why!

Square Circle Set

How important is nature to your work? what subject matter do you enjoy capturing the most?

I think I find most inspiration in nature. I'm lucky enough to live five minutes away from a nature reserve and go out when I can to pick apples and berries. Inevitably, I get distracted by what else is going on out there - whether it be the shapes the trees are making, the snails hugging the underside of plants, or the way the cows are looking at me. :) I also live a short distance from a gorgeous tarn, and I work in the heart of the Lake District surrounded by fells and water. There's a stone circle not too far away, overlooked by mountains and sheep. Hadrian's wall is just about on my doorstep. I can't imagine anyone being so close to all this and not wanting to capture a little piece of it somehow. These have always been my favourite places, and they're a part of what drew me back here, so it's not too surprising that it constantly inspires me.

What I'm trying to learn to do, though, is to look for the details in the beauty and not just breathe in the epic landscapes. That's why the nature reserve is important for me - it's not too pretty on its own (lots of mud and brambles, and a milk factory and abattoir within ear shot!) but close up, it's a whole world of its own. Mini mushrooms and dried berries on the path, or a spider hanging from a branch, or the way the sun hits the cobwebs on the berries. These details are my favourite things to capture because they're something I wouldn't have seen otherwise.

Your animal series echo an interesting 'humanity' how do you choose your animal subjects?

I love to take pictures of my pets and I think I've caught some of the personality of my past and present feline buddies. I've had some success with my friends' pets, too, I think. Other animals have to be doing something that interests me. I see a lot of sheep around here and I quickly found out that they're not that interesting when they're just standing in a field. There's got to be more to them than just being there (or, seriously, I'd post a LOT of sheep photos). So I suppose I'm attracted to animals that display a bit of personality, however they do it. Often they leap out at me, like Gismo the adorable monkey who played with me the whole time I was trying to take his photo, or the ostrich who looked at me as if he'd take my eye out if I got any closer, or the duck with his bum in the air! Sometimes, though, it's a bit less obvious. The incredible sleeping animals of Toronto zoo were tougher, but I still think they managed to come through in their photos. I don't think that animals are my best subject, but I do enjoy trying. :) And they're a lot easier than people!

Gismo

Please Follow these links

Flickr sets

BBC Photo Publication Pages 60,61 & 62

Photo Book Purchase @ Blurb

Myspace

Up Next: Family Portrait Photographer & Educator Kym Miller Drum.

ART RANT

2009-11-13T14:13:00.000-08:00

Hello, I had the most wonderful time at the opening of my solo show. Here are some pictures I want to share with you. Please enjoy.

Nikangel's Plastic Temptation open Nov. 5 through Feb. 26 at The Wallflower Gallery in Downtown Miami.

For the complete series click here

'Nik'

'Seduction'

'Confessional'

"It was a vibrant and intimate show opening night for Nikangel's Plastic Temptation" pbPulse Events

Setting up the bar

Installation

Laura & Lily

Best Friends Forever

...Claudia we missed you, I put you in the video :D

Untitled from Angelica Londono-Belin on Vimeo.
Video Sketches

Young Artist David and drummer for Petunio Che Che Che

Robert Belin and Videographer Mary Kate Belin ♥

Mom & Dad

Steven & Katisuka

Event photographer Jorge & his wife hair designer Lily.

The Band

The audience, My husband Ben on stage

Sweetheart Overture by Xela Zaid from Angelica Londono-Belin on Vimeo.

Xela Xaid, Ben Belin & Chris DeAngeles upright Bass.

Xela Zaid performs at Nikangel's art show from Angelica Londono-Belin on Vimeo.

click here

for more videos.

Xela Zaid Myspace

Ben Belin Myspace

Flash (Curator) Facebook

For information on purchasing prints please call 305-579-0069

* The proceeds from the art sales funded a most delightful trip to the Florida Keys.

Ben & I

Up Next: Photographer/Educator Victoria Archer

INTERMEZZO

2009-11-04T17:35:00.000-08:00

Hello!

As I prepare for my first solo art show tomorrow, I have time to share a few of my favorite links. Please enjoy.

The Art of Ken Wong

Illustrator Philip Straub

Zutto

ART RANT

2009-10-05T17:21:00.000-07:00

Today ART RANT features British musician Dead Satellite.

Tell us about the new songs.

‘My heart is Red’, the newest song on MySpace, I owed somebody that song. Relationships end and I wanted to show that it had been a positive experience overall, though the ending was quite sad.

‘Dead’ is about being totally uninspired by your surroundings and the feeling of not being able to do anything at all because of that. The video to ‘Lullaby’ by The Cure inspired some of the imagery in the lyrics for this one.

I have just finished a Royksopp remix and am working on the final songs that will complete a collection of ten songs that will be available for download. The songs currently on MySpace form part of that ten. New tracks include ‘Remote control’ and ‘Overrated’.

Where does the retro industrial edge to your music come from?

You will find the likes of NIN, Coil and Nitzer Ebb in my music collection. I guess I am taking influence from them on a subconscious level. I like a fuzzy kind of background noise and anything a bit dark. Generally, I choose sounds I like and don’t try to be genre specific. I have used sounds from computer games, techno kicks, windows sound files, helicopters, house snares, bonfires, electro synths, car engines, electronic bleeps, heart beats, bongos, choirs, anything really.

Explain your process for writing lyrics.

I have been writing things down for a long time. Long before Dead Satellite came along. This might just be in the form of a sentence or a poem, short story or nonsense. The lyrics to ‘This Knife’, for example are pulled together from a mixture of places within those writings, just things I like the sound of and hopefully some kind of connection is made.

On the other hand, a song like ‘Dead’ or ‘My Heart is Red’ which are about specific things or events will exist as a feeling for a while, eventually they come to the surface and I can usually write them down in a few minutes, if I’m lucky. I’ve learned if I have to labour over lyrics to abandon them.

You are myself by Dead Satellite

What equipment/programs do you use for production?

The vocal parts are done with Textaloud MP3 and I import them into FL studio. All the virtual instruments and effects I use are controlled within FL. My newest toys are some Korg synths, which have influenced any noticeable change in Dead Satellite’s sound lately. Some new Waves plug-ins have hopefully improved the production quality. It’s all done on a Sony laptop and I have just bought a keyboard so hope to get that involved soon.

Who is !-_-! ?

Good question. !-_-! represents the vocal. The image gives a facial image to relate to, rather than computer software. The voice I use is always the same, but manipulated to sound male, female or neither, hence there is only one image to represent the vocal parts.

The song ‘You are myself’ is a duet, a love song, and demonstrates the male/female sound I mentioned. The title came about as the two voices are the same voice, talking to itself.

Are you still looking for a 'human voice' for your mixes? what specifically are you looking for in a singer?

I am always looking for something. At the moment I am waiting on a few people to deliver vocal parts. Working with people over the internet is a very slow process and I have learnt to respect that Inevitably the vocals will be manipulated in some way, so unless someone brings a very strong vocal style of their own, then just a clear consistent voice is all I need/want.

Tell us about the goth scene in London, past present...future?

I grew up in a small town in the north of England, so my early experiences of the goth scene are based in Liverpool and Manchester, not London. I used to hang out at Planet X in Liverpool, with birds nest hair and eyeliner. The scene was pretty small, with the club being split between goth and punk. I remember seeing bands like Christian Death, Rosetta Stone and Creaming Jesus there.

I’ve been living in London for 18 months and although I am interested in the gothic/industrial sound of London bands like S.C.U.M and Advert, I tend to be drawn to electro/electronic music in equal measure. London is a melting pot and if you look at an area like Shoreditch there is a very broad spectrum of styles going on, in both music and fashion. Although some of this draws on the gothic aesthetic, people wouldn’t identify themselves as being goth necessarily, as they are taking influence from other places and putting them together. Maybe this is the future. I like the idea of cross referencing and not being tied to one particular scene. An area like Camden has a more traditional goth/punk feel to it, but I am not involved in that scene at the moment.

‘I used to be a goth, now I’m a robot.’ - DS

“-_-“

Next: The Amazing NIKANGEL

ART RANT

2009-09-13T15:59:00.000-07:00

Today I bring you Artist/Photographer Mauricio Murillo.

Tell us about your upcoming show, where? when? what series are you showing?

I have one piece that I will be showing, at an upcoming show called “Candy Corn and Razor Blades” at the Bear and Bird Gallery in Fort Lauderdale, FL. I will be debuting a new piece from my Gummy Bears: Outside the Package Series, titled “The Portrait”. It is a Halloween themed show and will open on Oct.17 and run until Nov. 13, 2009. You can view the piece at MauricioMurillo.com. Also, You can find my artwork at The T and P Fine Art Gallery in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania,.tandpfineart.com, They will be carrying my Gummy Bears: Outside the Package Series. I will also be donating two pieces From the “Outside The Package Series” to the Icla Da Silva Foundation, Which helps children with Leukemia, They have their 17th Annual Fundraising Dinner and Silent Auction event on Sept. 23, 2009 in New York. You can check it out here icla.org

How was the Gummy Bear series born?
Well, sometimes I will have one of those days that I just have to create something! It might be just drawing a sketch or a quick mini painting but on this particular day, I figured why not go to a local convenience store and see if I can create artwork with something I buy there.  So, while walking around the store I waked by the candy Isle and saw the gummy bear candy that where all familiar with. I figure it could be interesting and challenging to photograph them and as an added bonus get to eat them afterwards! :) Turns out on my drive home wheels were already spinning in my demented head about creating fun situations with these little guys.  Human behavior is my inspiration for this series.  I imagine if gummy bears watched how humans interacted with each other and simply observed how our lifestyles were like what would they think and how would they interpret it? I guess also adding a little bit of my morbid sense of humor to the artwork is fun too.

'The Chopper Machine'

What is the painting 'William' based on?
Back in 2006 I originally created a small drawing of a character and later wanted to turn it into a painting.  He represents a man, who is an artist that became mentally unstable due to the fact he never felt he could create that piece of artworkough t that would just blow people’s minds and just drives himself mad thinking about it.  Though the original sketch was more like a self-portrait of the character I wanted the painting to create a glimpse of madness but in a distorted way. He is simply a man with some serious issues.

'William'

How did you develop the Lone-Lee character?
Lone-Lee was created one day in class while at college.  I was attending the University of Central Florida at the time and was SOOOO bored.  So what I usually do to kill time is draw in my books or notes. Once I drew the character something about it I really liked and figured I should name it. Since he already looked sad I wanted to create a name that symbolized it but was spelled as if it was a real name. So I came up with “Lone-Lee” I guess he is also of Asian descent? I plan to hopefully create Lone-Lee into a Vinyl Toy but one step at a time.  I tend to do a little bit of everything at once and I need to learn to calm down.

'Lone-Lee'

How do Horror movies influence your work?
I LOVE horror movies! And October is my favorite time of year.  I’m not sure if my obsession with horror films has a direct correlation with my work, but if I had to find one thing it would be in my Black and White Photography.  For example if you looked at the movie poster for the Movie “The Exorcist” that single image of a man/priest in a poorly lit area looking up at a window that has light shinning right threw it is simply beautiful.  The image is so dramatic and spooky and yet so simple, I felt was genius. And in my black and white photography, I love to try to create that similar dramatic feel in the image.  For example, two pieces of mine titled “New York Alley” and “Woman by Central Park” I have been told gives off that vibe as well. But who knows, maybe I just got lucky.

'Woman by Central Park'

'New York Alley'

How does your graffiti background influence your paintings?
I would say my graffiti background has a huge influence in all my work. Whether if it’s just based on how it looks, or maybe the creative process, it always makes a presence.  I like to paint fast and spontaneous and when I did graffiti, you better believe you have to paint fast and I always really enjoyed that part of it.

'The Storm is Coming'

'Sunset Harvest'
Do you enjoy digital photo manipulation or do prefer a more natural approach to your photos?

I would have to say I enjoy a more natural approach to my photos.  With the Gummy Bear series it is all about using the right colors and lighting, the post work I do in Photoshop is very minimal.  In my landscapes, my best photos I feel happen on the run.  I might walk right past a setting and for whatever reason I had to stop what I was doing and snap a photo; it is one of my most favorite things about photography.

'Tree of Life'
My blog following following my Gummy Bear Art @ Crummy Gummy Bears
Up Next: Dead Satellite

ART RANT

2009-09-10T19:23:00.000-07:00

Hello dear readers, on this very special edition of ART RANT, I bring you my personal favorite Artist/Musician Benjamin Belin.

What fuels your creativity?

Obscure things in everyday life, the way lights hits and colors an object. Daily interactions and discussions with my wife and the people close to me.

Sinead

What artists have had the greatest influence over your work?

I would say the Abstract Expressionism had the greatest influence on my work because I feel they really opened things up with limitless possibilities, placing the focus of the piece on the viewers interaction with the artwork.

Self Portrait

When did you start playing drums?

I started playing on pots and pans around the house until my family noticed and bought me some drums.

What inspires your video editing style?

The source material is really what drives my projects, the feelings that it gives me...slow song, fast song moody song, however it makes me feel, quick cuts, long fades, I try to bring it out in the visuals. Having fun, learning Final Cut-Pro.

Light War

Up Next: Photographer Mauricio Murillo

INTERMEZZO (Late Edition)

2009-08-23T18:24:00.000-07:00

For today's Intermezzo, I bring you my new series entitled Abstract Gourmet.

Inspired by our stay in Paris, Les Halles Restaurant and Chef Anthony Bourdain.

Series of expressionist paintings based on Gourmet style plating and Chef's minimalist way of decorating food.

French Gourmet - Chef/Author Anthony Bourdain host of No Reservations.

Balsamique - Acrylic

Wasabi Schmear - Acrylic

Réglisse - Acrylic

Café Parisiens - Acrylic

Untitled - Acrylic

Sizes range from 6'x6' pieces to small plate size. The splatter is mostly kept within the canvas as food preparation is kept within the plate.

Please check out my website @

NikAngel

ART RANT

2009-08-21T14:22:00.000-07:00

We are going to start closing out the summer with Make-Up Artist from California Claudia Londoño.

What was your inspiration for becoming a Make-Up artist?

My inspiration came from watching the behind the scenes production for Michael Jackson's Thriller video and how Rick Baker one of the best FX arstist in Hollywood, showed a step by step process of Michael's werewolf coming to life.

What is the most memorable moment you have had while doing a celebrity's makeup?

I did a bullethole on Linda Blair's forehead for an action indie film, I asked her to twist her head around...she looked at me and proceeded with the twist but it didn't work, she was a lot of fun to work with.

Linda Blair, Claudia with Tom Arnold and David Foley

What is the most important beauty advice you can give women?

As far as healthier skin goes, it is very important to remove makeup before going to sleep (yes, even if you've had a late wrap time) drink plenty of water, excersise regularly, eat healthy meals, and always have some source of antioxidants every day. This goes for men too!

Beauty Make-Up by Claudia

What has been your favorite Special Effects character you've created so far?

One time for Halloween I made myself into a Conehead. My head lit on and off with a number of tiny light bulbs, I installed inside the bald cap. This had a cable attached that went down my back with a switch I could control. That night I entered a contest and won a $100 bar tap.

Up Next: Artist/ Musician Ben Belin

INTERMEZZO (Late Edition)

2009-08-11T18:18:00.000-07:00

Oh Hai, I love Movies.

I bring you a most delightful Intermezzo of movie inspired art. Featuring some of my favorite movie scenes on canvas.

Enjoy!

My favorite movie of all time The Shinning. Would be nice to have this above the fireplace.

Kirk Demarais
"The Torrances" (from Crazy 4 Cult 2)
giclee print on archival paper
11 x 14 inches
signed and numbered edition of 50
$65.00
(The Shinning)

I MFing love Pulp Fiction, Tarantino's bes, IMNSHO

Billy Perkins

"Mushroom Cloud-Layin' MF"
100lbs cover stock 4 colors
20 x 26 inches

signed and numbered edition of 70
$50.00
(Pulp Fiction)

Marla, the deeply disturbed character from Fight Club who falls in love with Jack, twice disturbed as Marla.

N.C. Winters
"I Am Jack's Broken Heart"
acrylic and resin on wood panel
16 x 20 inches
$1,200.00
(Fight Club)
SOLD

Donnie Darko, great movie must be watched at least twice.

Wade Schin
"Donnie"
4.75 inches tall
acrylic and spraypaint on acrylic plastic, one of a kind
$750.00
(Donnie Darko)
SOLD

I consider Napoleon Dynamite similar to my generation's Ferris Bueller's Day Off. I have written an essay on the similarities of these two films. Opinions collected during late night parties suggest a 50-50 agreement with this premise.

Eunice Choi
"Dynamite Portrait"
mixed media: watercolor, pen, ink
15 x 17 inches, framed
$150.00
(Napoleon Dynamite)

"It puts the lotion in the basket"

Ana Bagayan
"Silence"
oil on wood
18 x 24 inches
$3,200.00
(Silence of the Lambs)
SOLD

Cult Showdowns

Scott Campbell
Cult Showdowns:

"Lord Of The Rings" SOLD "Rushmore" SOLD

"Aliens" SOLD "Three Amigos" SOLD

"Trainspotting" SOLD "Highlander"

"Big Lebowski" SOLD "Boogie Nights" SOLD

"The Shinning" SOLD "Point Break" SOLD

acrylic on watercolor paper

3.5 x 3.5 inches

$250.00/each

Edward scissorhands.

Dan May
"Portrait Of A Gentle Man"
acrylic on panel
12 x 16 inches
$2,400.00
(Edward Scissorhands)
SOLD

Fargo, and one of the most shocking unexpected and unforgettable scenes.

Erica Gibson
"Fargo" (from crazy 4 cult 2)
giclee print on archival paper
11 x 14 inches
signed and numbered edition of 25
$45.00
(Fargo)

A Clockwork Orange meets Edvard Munch's The Scream on snowboard.

Jeff Gillette
"Clockwork Scream"
oil on snowboard
58 x 10 inches
$696.90
(A Clockwork Orange)

Veruca Salt from Charlie & The Chocolate factory, meet an appetite for destruction in this reminiscent cover of Guns n' roses premiere album.

Dave MacDowell
"Appetite For Veruca"
acrylic on canvas
24 x 36 inches
$2,000.00
(Charlie and the Chocolate Factory, based on "Appetite For Destruction" Robert Williams painting)

Dude on Velvet.

Misha
"The Black Velvet Dude Painting"
acrylic on velvet
16 x 20 inches, framed
$800.00
(The Big Lebowski)
SOLD

If you'd like to purchase anything from this show or have a question, email gallery1988@aol.com or call (323) 937 - 7088. You can learn more about this show, and Gallery1988, at gallery1988.com

ART RANT

2009-07-31T20:41:00.000-07:00

Today We visit with Japanese artist Takao Sakai.

What are Azuki beans?

Azuki beans are the most popular ingredient in Wagashi, a traditional food of Japan. They are said to be, "Beans of happiness", and Wagashi exists as symbolical food of happiness.

I use the Azuki beans as a symbol of Japanese identity. A new image of Japan is tried by sarcastically expressing the culture.
A Japanese person can recognized at once that it is Azuki beans. But, if a foreigner not knowing Wagashi, sees the bean, he is likely to think of it as an unpleasant mysterious object.

I am enjoying the misunderstanding, because Azuki beans have a very abstract shape.

Azuki Bean Beards

How do you stick the beans on the face?

This particular Azuki bean is an elaborate imitation made from paper clay. It is made by hand, and colored in acrylic pigment. The beard mask, is made up with imitation Azuki beans and installed on the face.
Manuel Göttsching of "Ashra" who was a legend musician in Germany became a model with the Azuki bean beard last summer.

How did you come up with that idea for the series Japanese rice cake sweets to "fashionable hat"

This work is a collaboration with the Wagashi shop in Japan. Wagashi actually sold it as a motif. They produced it, so that the customer who comes to the Wagashi shop might enjoy the art work. It is possible to actually put it on.

Japanese rice cake sweets to "fashionable hat"

Is there a fashion designer who inspires you?

I have not been inspired by a fashion designer. I am interested in the subculture that people other than the artist and the designer produce.
Furthermore, I am also inspired by experimental music and comedy. Denki Groove is a favorite artist in Japan.

Who is mystery WAGASHI Hero?

He is a Hero very popular among children in Japan!
he might be Japanese...

Mystery WAGASHI Hero "THE☆GREAT SWEET MASKMAN ver.09"

Where does the sweets or candy inspiration to your work come from?

Media that is contrary to Wagashi, other important key words for the art work are "Laughter", "Surprise", Delicious" and "Beauty."

I was born and raised in the city, so I grew up in a culture that said we must continue old traditions and at the same time, says we should create something new. People in my generation who grew up in those circumstances sought out new forms of happiness. In my early works, I tried to express a new form of happiness for contemporary Japan that references Wagashi as a form of cultural heritage, but puts them in a totally new setting.

Pompadour hairstyle of "Japanese sweets WAGASHI"

Official Takao Sakai Website

ART RANT

2009-07-24T16:15:00.000-07:00

Dearest readers, I bring you today a most interesting interview with People from Venus Frontman Paul Issac.

Tell me something completely random.

I like green street lights.

Light War - Edited by Ben

Where did the name People from Venus come from?

We were all thinking of a name for our band you know, so really fast I said "People from Venus" I must have been on a sugar high or something...so yeah, Gerson, Ari and Ben were cool with it so here we are.

People from Venus - LTR Ari Eisenstein, Ben Belin, Paul Issac, Gerson Lima

What do you get the most enjoyment out of in your art? (writing, recording, live performance etc.)

Well, definitely writing and channeling songs or melodies causes me a lot of pain and joy. There's a lot of personal garbage to get through before I can see or hear the song . It's like a very beautiful process but I don't know how it happens ever.

"Perfect beautiful, in the Static" what do these lyrics mean to you?

You know, those times when life is hard and you're let down but you find an emotional place where you can see there's something hidden perfect in everything.

What are your expectations for the new album? and are the rumors true the record might be called 'TOot ToOT YEah'?

I got no expectations, I got meditations and medications. Yeah maybe.

Right now, it's been such a challenge to even finish the record. I think there are forces trying to stop us, breaking hearts and backs along the way. It's so messed up and super cool.

Next Up: Japanese Artist Takao Sakai