What Inspires You?

I was recently asked why I choose to feature the accomplishments of my friends and others who are working artists, as opposed to using this blog as a vehicle for self-promotion.

The answer is simple…I don’t believe creative ideas exist in a vacuum. My work is inspired by film noir, a predominant theme in my paintings and a subject I could easily expound upon; but, the paintings would not be created without the support of many different outside influences including lyrics, literature, films, and music as a catalyst. I feel compelled to acknowledge that we who call ourselves “artists” owe a debt of gratitude to those who have triggered our creative process.

Kant describes creativity as “a talent for producing that for which no definite rule can be given; it is not a mere aptitude in the way of cleverness for what can be leant by a rule.” In other words, ‘originality must be its primary property.’ As artists, we tend to immerse ourselves in as diverse a combination of aesthetic ideas and pursuits as possible, which allows us to combine these elements in a manner that deviates from the traditional to produce something original.

I know few artists, writers, musicians, or filmmakers worth their salt who have not been exposed to or directly influenced by the accomplishments of fellow artists within their fields.  Therefore, the purpose of this blog is not to publicize any one artist, nor even to promote art in and of itself, but rather to share creative synergy and explore expressive ideas that open the mind to all things possible. 

Be sure to visit again soon for upcoming posts on the work of my friends Manuel Nunez, William Esdale, and Dean Melbourne, 3 unique artists I am pleased to share with you.

In the meantime, here’s what’s new for fall:

MUSIC:

BJM’s Anton Newcombe released a new demo today:

Recorded on 15/08/2013 - work in progress berlin de.

Also check out recent collaborations with Charlatans vocalist Tim Burgess.

Photo: Patti Farfan (2006)

Catch Joel Gion with Asteroid No.4 

Brick & Mortar Music Hall

1710 Mission St, San Francisco, CA 94103

Sat. 31, August 2013 9 p.m.

 

ART:

Toby Mott  Loud Flash: British Punk On Paper

Columbus College of Art & Design, Ohio: 5 September – 4 October 2013.

Loud Flash, from the collection of Toby Mott, is a compelling portrait of a particular moment in British popular culture at the bitter end of the post-war.

Opening Reception: Thursday 5 Sept 6–8 pm Columbus College of Art & Design Canzani Center Gallery 60 Cleveland Ave Columbus, Ohio 43215 USA 

           Beam & Anchor, 2710 N. Interstate Avenue, Portland, Oregon 97227 503-367-3230.

Philip Munoz is keeping very busy with commissions this summer & his new baby son. See his work at Albemarle Gallery

I will be unveiling new work at Richard Danskin GALLERIES on 4 October, 2013 5-9 pm.

                                                              Untitled diptych sun/moon

Located in the beautiful El Paseo Shopping District of Palm Desert, the gallery also represents artists Fabian Perez, Jackie Bowker, and surrealist George Gonzalez, among others. A new season of “First Friday” art walks begins this October.

 

FILM:  

UC Berkley has a couple not-to-miss film exhibits this fall: The works of Jacques Demy, and China’s best known cinematographer, Yang Fudong.

University of California Berkley Art Museum and Pacific Film Archive

2575 Bancroft Way
Between College and Telegraph.

Tales of Love: The Enchanted World of Jacques Demy
Through 31 August, 2013

This summer, we are delighted to showcase the films of Jacques Demy (1931–1990), one of the most gifted filmmakers to emerge during the French New Wave. Masterfully choreographed camera movements, a penchant for colorful decorative elegance, and a starring role for music (often by Michel LeGrand) are trademarks of Demy’s cinematic style. Our series also includes three films about Demy directed by his wife, Agnès Varda.

Yang Fudong's Cinematic Influences
August 22 - October 6

 
In conjunction with the BAM/PFA exhibition Yang Fudong: Estranged Paradise, Works 1993–2013, we present two films by the artist/filmmaker as well as a range of works that have influenced him.

Things are moving along for filmmaker Chris Tevebaugh & “Honor The Father,” with exciting news including a state grant and some film festival interest. Check back later for more…