Continuing with the “body as the central focus ” theme this week…

Spencer Tunick uses lots of human bodies in his large scale photo shoots – we’re talking sometimes even hundreds of them! He’s been doing it for quite some time now – no wonder why he masters the skill of making people stay still to pose for the camera. Can you imagine? If taking family pictures is hard enough – now add another 500 moving bodies. Crazy!

For this feature I chose a few photos that look like a human ocean of color, where waves and tides are made out of limbs and faces. Make sure to see more of his work over here.

By the way, I am this close of launching the new revamped blog! I am also trying to bring some new columns that will surely please your eyes. So excited! Stay tuned for the “grand gallery opening”.

Happy weekend peeps :)

all images: © Spencer Tunick

Hello you!

It’s that time of the week. You know what I’m talking about, right? It’s time to feature awesome people!

Today we’re going to have a chat with Rachael Ashe - an emerging artist that uses recycled materials and found objects to create altered books and collages. Did I mention she also loves photography? Yeah, total rad-o-rama over here!

By the way the long weekend is upon us, which means a possible road trip AND lots of delicious pics. Stay tuned for next week’s “The Week in Images”

Let’s get the chat with Rachael started:

Who is Rachael?

I am an emerging multi-disciplinary artist, working in a number of media such as altered books, mixed media collage, paper cutting, and photography. I love working with recycled materials and found objects as much as possible. I live in East Vancouver with an entrepreneurial technologist and a small yellow bird, both of whom constantly inspire and keep me laughing.

When did you start making art?

I was drawn to art-making from childhood. First it was drawing and painting, and then photography. Up until about four years ago I was focused only on photography, mainly creative portraiture. As I transitioned from film to digital, I felt drawn to more tactile work in the form of collage, and this eventually led to working with books. At the moment I am entirely focused on  paper-based work in the form of collage and paper cutting, as well as altered books.

What are altered books?

The term altered books covers any art form that uses old books as a material. I use existing hardcover books I either find or buy second-hand to create sculptural assemblage collage.

What’s your favorite medium to work on?

I love trying different things and experimenting, which is why I end up working in many different mediums. At the moment paper is definitely my favourite, and I’m contemplating ways I can create larger pieces than I have to date.

What are some basic tools we would need if we wanted to create some altered books?

All someone really needs is a book and creative thinking, because there are many things one can do that don’t require any additional tools. Scissors, glue, gel medium, an xacto knife, and a bone folder knife are the basic tools I work with most often.

How do you recharge your creative batteries?

I recharge my creative batteries by getting out of the city for a change of scene, spending time in nature, and visiting the studios of artists I admire. I also get a recharge by experimenting with new materials or process because it can inspire ideas and lead to new work.

What would be your advice for people that want to pursue a career in art but don’t know where to start?

An important part of being an artist is to reach out to other artists and engage your community. I’ve learned a lot about being a professional artist by participating in events that have brought me into contact with more experienced artists. Most people are willing to share knowledge and experience, and it’s important to any career type to create strong connections with the people in your field. Don’t expect anyone to just hand you all the answers though.

Holy laser-cut precision, Batman! (all by hand though)

Her work is a beautiful mix of patterns, textures and nature. Visit Rachael’s Etsy shop to get your hands in some of her collages or follow her on Instagram and watch the magic of mixed media unfold before your eyes (you’ll also get a few sneak peeks of her AWESOME little bird)

Happy weekend!

Guys!

Oh ma gawd. Friday has arrived, how did that happen? Don’t you feel time is just flying by lately?

Today I have a little interview for you with Malta-born artist Elisa von Brockdorff (she’s the funky gal in the image above!). Elisa totally caught my eye with her photographs; she loves to find beauty and colour in the ordinary. She can also transform doll houses into bright little fairy-like lighthouses, pretty cool, yah?

Before we jump to the interview, I just wanted to quickly share with you that I am the featured blogger of the month over at Blog Brunch! YAY! Thanks so much guys, so honored :)

Alright, interview time! Enjoy

Who is Elisa?
Elisa is a freelance photographer who currently lives in Malta. Three years ago, she completed an MA in Fine Art in the UK. Her work, be it photography or installation art is created by staging mundane, often colourful objects within spaces. These interventions display a contrast between materials and challenge the scale of the objects, whilst projecting irony or humour. She is also keen on fashion photography.

When did you start making art?
Ever since I was very little I can always remember being fascinated by the process of ‘putting materials together’ to create something else. Hence I liked craft books and would make my own little constructions out of objects I found at home. That was the start of my fascination for the ‘staged world’.

Who / what influences your art?
In general, I make it appoint to look at others’ creative work, be it art, photography, fashion and design on a daily basis. However I also get influenced by colour, repetition and light, as well as mundane objects and occurrences – for instance plastic goods in a shop might inspire me to create an installation.

Which tools do you use to keep track of your inspiration?
I have a large folder on my pc which is further subdivided into art, fashion photography, fashion design, interiors and graphic design. Whenever I come across an image that draws my attention, I make sure to save them and often make reference to them later. I’ve recently also started using Pinterest to keep track of images I enjoy. When it comes to documenting ideas for installations or photography work, I like to make a quick pencil drawing in my sketch book – sometimes the work evolves into an artwork, other times it remains a sketch.

Who are some of your favorite artists?
There are a lot of artists I admire though here are a few. David Batchelor for his colourful installations. Liz Wolfe for her playful, staged photographs. I really love Tim Walker’s photographs – in his work I see the two worlds of fashion and art merge together so strongly and beautifully. There are also many other photographers I find extremely inspiring, such as Miles Aldridge, Sophie Delaporte, Steven Klein and Lara Jade to name a few.

What would be your advice for people wanting to pursue a creative career but don’t know where to start?
As cliché as it might sound, first you have to believe and be convinced you can make it since there might the tendency for people around you to discourage you initially – claiming it’s not an easy career move since there is a lot of competition bla bla – and that’s not something helpful! Get to know what you are good at and do a lot of that. Don’t expect money to roll in instantly. It’s ok to do some unrelated work on the side whilst you work on personal projects to enhance your skills and portfolio. Market yourself – upload your work on social networks, exhibit your work and create a professional website. Then target potential clients in your niche – contact them and show them your work. Not all will reply but don’t get discouraged. Continue developing your skills within the field you chose and look at your contemporaries’ work… and keep in mind that good things will come to those who work hard!

Excellent advice Elisa! You gotta trust yourself and work hard, the rest will follow.

Thanks so much for your time Elisa and thanks guys for joining us for this interview. Don’t forget to drop by Elisa’s site and give her some love!

Sharp teeth, animal-like figures, bright colors – what else do you need?

AJ Fosik - a Michigan native – is the carving master behind these colorful sculptures. Aren’t they beautiful? They remind me of those dragon customes people wear during Chinese New Year, so vivid!

A mix of art and mythical stories – AJ, we love your work!

Alrighty friends, hope you have a great weekend, don’t forget to send your questions to get some creative advice :)

See you monday!

all images: AJ Fosik

Tada!

This week’s Artful Friday comes with a colourful bang. Embrace yourselves for the vibrant storm of Brendan Smith.

This week the weather has been a little bit moody – sun for one hour, rain for 2 hours, wind for 4 hours and back to the beginning – so, a big dose of cheerful art is needed.

Brendan uses bold brush strokes and bright tones to create color explosions on canvases. If you have a room at home that needs a little happy-therapy, I’d would go for one of these babies!

Oh, before I forget – I have a whole new site coming soon fellas! That’s right, an actual site with lots of new goodies. Also, the Artful City Walks project is pumpin’ I got the 1st set of cameras ready and I’m going for more! Stay tuned for more updates.

For now, enjoy the weekend and the beautiful art of Brendan! Doesn’t he make you happy? Yeaah!

Feliz weekend :)

All images: Brendan Smith