What happened to my year? It was Spring, I was in school, then I'm done and suddenly it's winter and the end of the year. I've done and learned a lot this year and I hope that I can keep my work evolving. I just completed an update to www.danotanaka.com and I can see the difference in my work from month to month, just have to keep on doing it and I know good things will come out of it.
Have a happy Christmas (even though I'm atheist/Buddhist I say it! lol)
Saturday, December 18, 2010
Saturday, November 27, 2010
Vector of Playboy Playmate DJ Colleen Shannon
The past week was pretty busy. I found out that DJ Colleen Shannon was coming to Edmonton and since she was a Playboy Playmate it seemed to fit in perfectly with my pinup theme that I enjoy illustrating! After Meeting with Sam from the Rouge Lounge and told him my plan. He was very supportive and I started work the next day. I only had 5 days to complete the image and get it printed. That combined with my usual business of running around made things a bit tight for time.
In the end things worked out for the best...the final image took less than 30 hours, 12 of those hours was on Tuesday (the day before the event). I might have done it in less time but I was trying to perfect a better way to create hair in vector. I think I got it now though!
When I met DJ Colleen, I explained that there was 4 copies of the illustration - 1 for the bar, 1 for me, of course one for her if she wanted, and one to be auctioned off for Movember. She happily signed 3 copies and asked that I sign hers. She was pretty happy with the image since she said that she didn't get a copy for herself.
I thought the whole meeting was great, she then wished me luck in my new field after we had a photo together. All in all it was well worth the time I put into the image!
Next I'll be working on a vector pinup for Abby Valentine from Norman, OK. I think it will turn out great!
In the end things worked out for the best...the final image took less than 30 hours, 12 of those hours was on Tuesday (the day before the event). I might have done it in less time but I was trying to perfect a better way to create hair in vector. I think I got it now though!
When I met DJ Colleen, I explained that there was 4 copies of the illustration - 1 for the bar, 1 for me, of course one for her if she wanted, and one to be auctioned off for Movember. She happily signed 3 copies and asked that I sign hers. She was pretty happy with the image since she said that she didn't get a copy for herself.
I thought the whole meeting was great, she then wished me luck in my new field after we had a photo together. All in all it was well worth the time I put into the image!
Next I'll be working on a vector pinup for Abby Valentine from Norman, OK. I think it will turn out great!
Sunday, October 17, 2010
Dano Meets Masuimi Max!
Well I have to say that I'm pretty happy, this weekend I went to Calgary and met Masuimi Max at the Calgary Tattoo convention. I generally don't need a reason to attend a Tattoo convention, but if you have been following my work you might know that I did mad a pinup image of Masuimi (in front of a green hotrod).
It was great to chat with her and get her impression of my work. We talked for about 15 min where she gave me some ideas about selling my work. She was definitely cool, and was happy that I included her name with the image so that's great! Next will be to figure out how to sell these.
Also we exchanged signed copies of the print. Here is link to the sample image before I put all the credit stuff on it.
Really I was just happy to hear that she thought my work was awesome and that she had no issues with me selling my work of her. I hope that I can do more pieces and who knows where it could lead for a career!
It was great to chat with her and get her impression of my work. We talked for about 15 min where she gave me some ideas about selling my work. She was definitely cool, and was happy that I included her name with the image so that's great! Next will be to figure out how to sell these.
Also we exchanged signed copies of the print. Here is link to the sample image before I put all the credit stuff on it.
Really I was just happy to hear that she thought my work was awesome and that she had no issues with me selling my work of her. I hope that I can do more pieces and who knows where it could lead for a career!
Saturday, October 2, 2010
College is done!
After many months away focusing on school, I'm happy to report that I have graduated! Of course one would think that I'm free of assignments and will have all this free time, but of course that isn't the case. We've been allowed to stay until Oct 15 to finish up projects, etc. This is perfect for me since I'm not entirely happy/completed my website. There is a lot to do and I'm sure I'll never really be satisfied...but it's got to get done!
Another minor complication is either finding gainful employment, or at least projects. I prefer projects since I love making my own schedule, and I think there is a lot more I can accomplish. Time will tell and things will reveal itself.
Speaking of the future, I'm pretty excited about the next upcoming weekends. The Tattoo Convention will be in #yeg (Edmonton) next weekend and to #yyc (Calgary) the following. I'll be going to both events. At the Edmonton dates I'll be getting tattooed and it will be the first time in over a year - much too long if you know me well. For the Calgary event I'm looking forward to meeting Masuimi Max - you'll note that I have a pinup completed and I'm working on another project. My hope is that she'll like my work. Regardless, both events will be fun!
Write more later, sooner than later I promise!
Another minor complication is either finding gainful employment, or at least projects. I prefer projects since I love making my own schedule, and I think there is a lot more I can accomplish. Time will tell and things will reveal itself.
Speaking of the future, I'm pretty excited about the next upcoming weekends. The Tattoo Convention will be in #yeg (Edmonton) next weekend and to #yyc (Calgary) the following. I'll be going to both events. At the Edmonton dates I'll be getting tattooed and it will be the first time in over a year - much too long if you know me well. For the Calgary event I'm looking forward to meeting Masuimi Max - you'll note that I have a pinup completed and I'm working on another project. My hope is that she'll like my work. Regardless, both events will be fun!
Write more later, sooner than later I promise!
Tuesday, July 27, 2010
Back on Empire Avenue
Well yes after an absence I decided to come back. Without going into to much detail, there were some personal issues that developed due to my use of being online. That all seems to have subsided and I'm back.
Really I have missed the connections and meeting new people. My program is in its final 2 months so things will be even more busier! I think I've been doing some pretty good work, but looking forward to getting better and developing into a professional level.
A question that we've been asked is that we have to develop a web portfolio and with that a theme for the site. Things like this are always more difficult when it's for yourself...any ideas out there what a suitable theme for me might be?
More later!
Really I have missed the connections and meeting new people. My program is in its final 2 months so things will be even more busier! I think I've been doing some pretty good work, but looking forward to getting better and developing into a professional level.
A question that we've been asked is that we have to develop a web portfolio and with that a theme for the site. Things like this are always more difficult when it's for yourself...any ideas out there what a suitable theme for me might be?
More later!
Monday, July 26, 2010
Back on EA!
Here is my code for them to verify my blog!
EAVB_OGPZBZPOUY
Watch my blog again...I'm back!
EAVB_OGPZBZPOUY
Watch my blog again...I'm back!
Monday, June 14, 2010
Social (?) Networking
I had an interesting event that happened over the weekend that made me question the idea of "social networking". Without going into a lot of details about the event, I'll provide my thoughts on what I've been thinking about....
Social networking was to bring people of similar interests together in a new way...no matter what the city, province or country...people could connect. As an example I have 850+ contacts in facebook...many are not "really" my friends. But since I play one of facebooks many online games...we band together for a personal army. Something interesting happened since I've been in college, I've posted some work that I've completed to a photo album in an effort to let my "real" friends see what I've been doing and have my work seen. What happened was I received comments not only by the people I know well, but from people whom we've never even said hello. Helpful comments, small tips, and insights in an attempt to make my work better or to give some encouragement to keep studying and stay focused. For this I can be so grateful.
In an effort to expand my social network, I joined Twitter and Empire Avenue (a game where you have personal shares that others buy so that your stock rises - or falls). I found this to be a bit more odd...sure I cared about my share worth and was encouraged to follow people on twitter and start a blog (which I am happy for...). I suppose what is so easy to forget is that social networking is like online dating...they are individuals that are out living there lives that spend a few min, or hours a day connecting with people. Some of these connections become "friends", and I have several from facebook.
The things that bug me are the release of information about me to third party companies just they can market to me better, and the reality of by connecting with others this way - you only know what they tell you...Just like in my travels to other countries, there are many different people good and bad, who also act good or bad - the difference is that for many - there is a loss of the idea that there is a real person connected to the posted photo, chat, or message. In it's attempt to connect people...hasn't it made that connection a bit thinner? It seems so easy to rant off a message and feel no consequences until forced to, many can feel free by doing so anonymously...others are not so lucky and must face themselves eventually.
For some others, it is the only form of escape for a thin attempt of socialization that they can deal with...For me, I am finding it difficult to chat on Twitter, MSN messenger and Facebook chat AND get my school work completed (well I always complete mine done...but still!). It is time consuming...
As for me, and my recent exposure to a concentrated dose intense of social networking...I think I'll remove myself from Empire Avenue, remove the people I don't really know from twitter, and stick with those that at least have the common interest on facebook. I'm not sure what the difference is really, but at least I've "known" many of them for a while...as for the others I don't know on facebook...at least we have castle age!
Social networking was to bring people of similar interests together in a new way...no matter what the city, province or country...people could connect. As an example I have 850+ contacts in facebook...many are not "really" my friends. But since I play one of facebooks many online games...we band together for a personal army. Something interesting happened since I've been in college, I've posted some work that I've completed to a photo album in an effort to let my "real" friends see what I've been doing and have my work seen. What happened was I received comments not only by the people I know well, but from people whom we've never even said hello. Helpful comments, small tips, and insights in an attempt to make my work better or to give some encouragement to keep studying and stay focused. For this I can be so grateful.
In an effort to expand my social network, I joined Twitter and Empire Avenue (a game where you have personal shares that others buy so that your stock rises - or falls). I found this to be a bit more odd...sure I cared about my share worth and was encouraged to follow people on twitter and start a blog (which I am happy for...). I suppose what is so easy to forget is that social networking is like online dating...they are individuals that are out living there lives that spend a few min, or hours a day connecting with people. Some of these connections become "friends", and I have several from facebook.
The things that bug me are the release of information about me to third party companies just they can market to me better, and the reality of by connecting with others this way - you only know what they tell you...Just like in my travels to other countries, there are many different people good and bad, who also act good or bad - the difference is that for many - there is a loss of the idea that there is a real person connected to the posted photo, chat, or message. In it's attempt to connect people...hasn't it made that connection a bit thinner? It seems so easy to rant off a message and feel no consequences until forced to, many can feel free by doing so anonymously...others are not so lucky and must face themselves eventually.
For some others, it is the only form of escape for a thin attempt of socialization that they can deal with...For me, I am finding it difficult to chat on Twitter, MSN messenger and Facebook chat AND get my school work completed (well I always complete mine done...but still!). It is time consuming...
As for me, and my recent exposure to a concentrated dose intense of social networking...I think I'll remove myself from Empire Avenue, remove the people I don't really know from twitter, and stick with those that at least have the common interest on facebook. I'm not sure what the difference is really, but at least I've "known" many of them for a while...as for the others I don't know on facebook...at least we have castle age!
Friday, June 11, 2010
TGIF!
I missed my blog entry for yesterday, however I'm not sure if it would have made much sense.
I usually have problems sleeping, to overcome this I usually go to the gym since the added work load seems to level things out and actually make me tired at night. These days, working on projects seems to tire me out enough so that when I go home, I have no distractions and I just go to bed at a reasonable time. Wednesday night I had about 2 hours sleep (I'll go through why in a minute), still I went to college and attended all my classes (I hate to miss anything). Struggling through the day I went home, didn't stay late after school like usual, and fell asleep around 8 pm. This of course was a bad thing since I woke up wide awake at 1 am. On the upside I can come to school and get things done without anyone else around.
Anyway I know the reason why I don't sleep properly is due to worries about money. I would never, ever talk to anyone about these kinds of problems since I have always been pretty independent. I'm even hesitant to write this out here except I decided that I would use this blog to practice my writing and to get the things out that need to be said...only a few people read this anyway ;-)
However! Tonight when I wok up my mind started to go again and I think I have a direction (finally!). Part of my issue with working is that it doesn't advance my goals of working as a digital artist. I've been offered to work as a door guy in a bar (not my style or personality), I had thought to work at Sobey's grocery (but the money is so low that it hardly seems worth it). So I've been the "struggling student/artist" for a few months...
So the plan is to now try to do some things that combine my experience...start a company with a friend of mine. This company produce digital print banners, mostly it will be used for advertising anything from real estate, birthday celebrations, and billboards. However I think that this could also be perfect for artists to showcase their work in a reasonably priced, large format. This is an exciting prospect and I really need it to work out. Especially since this fulfills my idea of "working from anywhere" since most things can be done via the internet.
The next thing I decided what to make a book. Not really to "publish" but I can see the potential of understanding a product like InDesign, the best would be to make a magazine. I was toying with the theme...but I think it's going to be a book/magazine about me and my interests, plus I can put my work in there and use it as a portfolio...that must be good!
So that's the end of my 4am ramblings...hope it wasn't too painful for you ;-)
I usually have problems sleeping, to overcome this I usually go to the gym since the added work load seems to level things out and actually make me tired at night. These days, working on projects seems to tire me out enough so that when I go home, I have no distractions and I just go to bed at a reasonable time. Wednesday night I had about 2 hours sleep (I'll go through why in a minute), still I went to college and attended all my classes (I hate to miss anything). Struggling through the day I went home, didn't stay late after school like usual, and fell asleep around 8 pm. This of course was a bad thing since I woke up wide awake at 1 am. On the upside I can come to school and get things done without anyone else around.
Anyway I know the reason why I don't sleep properly is due to worries about money. I would never, ever talk to anyone about these kinds of problems since I have always been pretty independent. I'm even hesitant to write this out here except I decided that I would use this blog to practice my writing and to get the things out that need to be said...only a few people read this anyway ;-)
However! Tonight when I wok up my mind started to go again and I think I have a direction (finally!). Part of my issue with working is that it doesn't advance my goals of working as a digital artist. I've been offered to work as a door guy in a bar (not my style or personality), I had thought to work at Sobey's grocery (but the money is so low that it hardly seems worth it). So I've been the "struggling student/artist" for a few months...
So the plan is to now try to do some things that combine my experience...start a company with a friend of mine. This company produce digital print banners, mostly it will be used for advertising anything from real estate, birthday celebrations, and billboards. However I think that this could also be perfect for artists to showcase their work in a reasonably priced, large format. This is an exciting prospect and I really need it to work out. Especially since this fulfills my idea of "working from anywhere" since most things can be done via the internet.
The next thing I decided what to make a book. Not really to "publish" but I can see the potential of understanding a product like InDesign, the best would be to make a magazine. I was toying with the theme...but I think it's going to be a book/magazine about me and my interests, plus I can put my work in there and use it as a portfolio...that must be good!
So that's the end of my 4am ramblings...hope it wasn't too painful for you ;-)
Wednesday, June 9, 2010
Mid-Week
I am pretty happy today...just posted an unfinished version of my first pinup to facebook. Had to stamp it with "Sample" so the facebook police wouldn't "own" my work. I'll be making a Flickr account soon for my final images...still with a watermark. I think I'll have her finished today and I'll add the background done today/tomorrow depending on how detailed it will be.
I've been learning some basic html so let's see if I can add the image here...
[Fail]
Not sure if it's my coding or this blog website...? More investigation is needed.
Today we are moving towards "making" actual websites. We have to make a mock up in photoshop, then tomorrow we'll code it...should be interesting!
I've been learning some basic html so let's see if I can add the image here...
[Fail]
Not sure if it's my coding or this blog website...? More investigation is needed.
Today we are moving towards "making" actual websites. We have to make a mock up in photoshop, then tomorrow we'll code it...should be interesting!
Tuesday, June 8, 2010
Highly Productive!
I feel pretty good! I have the first pinup near completion...should be done tomorrow if all goes well. Then I'll start another, I'll only make 3 or 4 and not one per month (for the calendar project we have. I find this all very interesting and cool, drawing but with the computer...exactly what I wanted...now to get it to pay for me!
I think I'll be going home soon, I've been feeling tired and although feeling good - I don't want to get sick or something crazy and have to miss school.
Also I think I need to look at getting a flickr account to post my work on. Facebook is ok for tutorial stuff that I've finished but for work that I've spent hours and hours on...I'd like to control that a bit better. With any luck, maybe I can be a not-so-starving-artist someday!
I think I'll be going home soon, I've been feeling tired and although feeling good - I don't want to get sick or something crazy and have to miss school.
Also I think I need to look at getting a flickr account to post my work on. Facebook is ok for tutorial stuff that I've finished but for work that I've spent hours and hours on...I'd like to control that a bit better. With any luck, maybe I can be a not-so-starving-artist someday!
Monday, June 7, 2010
Back to Monday
Funny I feel so tired this morning...but I got more off-time that I usually take while in college? Maybe it's the cloud cover and slight rain, but I feel tired. One of the good things though is I'm making good progress for my pinup calendar :-)
Sunday, June 6, 2010
New Project!
Well I have to day I feel I did a lot of good work this weekend...and I'm pretty happy about it!
Finished some projects, got a good start on a new one. I've met and chatted with cool new people through EA (Empire Avenue) - though my stock has been dropping all day...not sure what's up with that??). I had a nice coffee and conversation with someone. Then after coming back did some more work. Now I plan to go home soon and take a break...I don't want one, but I'll come in early tomorrow...don't want to get burned out after all ;-) Not sure if my Mac Crazy Eye Syndrome was burn out or not...
So here is my "in-my-head" song for the day...Heroes by Bowie of course! Although he is totally strung out, can't really lip-sync the song, and apparently doesn't remember shooting the video...I love the song and find it very inspirational.
Anyway...enjoy your night/weekend!
Finished some projects, got a good start on a new one. I've met and chatted with cool new people through EA (Empire Avenue) - though my stock has been dropping all day...not sure what's up with that??). I had a nice coffee and conversation with someone. Then after coming back did some more work. Now I plan to go home soon and take a break...I don't want one, but I'll come in early tomorrow...don't want to get burned out after all ;-) Not sure if my Mac Crazy Eye Syndrome was burn out or not...
So here is my "in-my-head" song for the day...Heroes by Bowie of course! Although he is totally strung out, can't really lip-sync the song, and apparently doesn't remember shooting the video...I love the song and find it very inspirational.
Anyway...enjoy your night/weekend!
Sunday Bloody Sunday
Not too bloody, actually quite good. I essentially finished my huge image image (I say essentially since I will most likely need another 5-10 hours but the main image is now done). So I started a new one, this one is the calendar, to be done Using Illustrator. I have the actually calendar written out in the program - did that Friday. After a ton of looking around at different calendars, Aztec, zodiac, celestial, etc...I decided in Dano style to do a pinup calendar. Those who are reading this and not "subscribed" will not find this unusual of course. However it has it's own challenges...
I think I want to do 4 different images, and to make sure I don't suffer my White Pixel Retinal Burn Syndrome. So this means I'll have to lower the amount of detail while still getting it done well...tough for me since I would want to add every single shade and detail. However I'm glad to report that I've been doing this for only a few (3) hours and its working pretty well...even getting the sense of when I'm getting too nutty about detail! See and old dog can learn new tricks! Ha!
I think I want to do 4 different images, and to make sure I don't suffer my White Pixel Retinal Burn Syndrome. So this means I'll have to lower the amount of detail while still getting it done well...tough for me since I would want to add every single shade and detail. However I'm glad to report that I've been doing this for only a few (3) hours and its working pretty well...even getting the sense of when I'm getting too nutty about detail! See and old dog can learn new tricks! Ha!
Saturday, June 5, 2010
Ch..Ch..Cha..Changes
Well ok things aren't changing at the moment...but it's my song of the day. You know those days where you could hear the same song 20 times...that kind of day :-) So today is Bowie's - Changes. Really the whole Ziggy era is doing it for me today...
I like these times of day the best...early/late at night...working on stuff I like and listening to my music. I think I need a break from "people" it seems. I think the years working in Client Services have worn down my tolerance, especially this last year.
Working on my Iman image again today...I think for the most part it will be complete..I'll keep doing stuff with it, adding in smaller details that only I can see. However I have a new project - to make a calendar. I'm thinking I might this one a pinup calendar since it's one of my things I like ;-)
I like these times of day the best...early/late at night...working on stuff I like and listening to my music. I think I need a break from "people" it seems. I think the years working in Client Services have worn down my tolerance, especially this last year.
Working on my Iman image again today...I think for the most part it will be complete..I'll keep doing stuff with it, adding in smaller details that only I can see. However I have a new project - to make a calendar. I'm thinking I might this one a pinup calendar since it's one of my things I like ;-)
Friday, June 4, 2010
Super Tired!
Well it's been a long week...but in the interests of keeping my Empire Avenue stock going...I thought I better get my blog entry in for the day.
Since I've been working hard, I plan to go home for a good sleep then back to school super early tomorrow!
Have a good night all!
Since I've been working hard, I plan to go home for a good sleep then back to school super early tomorrow!
Have a good night all!
Thursday, June 3, 2010
What a day!
It's been a crazy busy day it seems...though fun.
First in class we got the cameras and went out to take some photos of each other to give us some reference material. We walked around the area (which is my village if you recall) and took pics in an old English style phonebooth...I've wanted that pic since I moved in since it's on the Ziggy Stardust album jacket (if you remember what an album is). We walked to other areas as well so it was fun for first thing in the morning.
Next we were sent in to work on our photos for our "work life" shots...if we wrote up tutorials, got interviewed, etc then we have a stock pro photo that we worked on ourselves. The upside is that it looks very good, the downside is that I don't look exactly like that! Using our photoshop techniques I opened up my sleepy eyes, whitened the whites, cleared and balanced my skin, removed some wrinkles (not many were there thankfully), cleaned up the glass in the phone booth, lightened me up since I was in a shadow, and made the booth more red. Also I gave myself a slight nose job! so it's crazy what I can do now!
Next we had a website we designed critiqued, I won't complain (much) since it was only the second I ever tried on my own...but with some helpful critiques I think I'll get there.
Finally I did some tutorials (as seen on facebook), it was irritating since the authors don't tell you all the information that you need to know ahead of time. So it took me 4 tries to perfect what needed to be done. I went from over an hour in a try to about 10 min. So I'm not sure if that's part of the learning path but I ended up doing somethings on my own to make it work--not so bad! I think I should make this into a postage stamp!
Anyway I feel optimistic that I am learning a lot and getting better at my craft...although not fast enough for me of course!
First in class we got the cameras and went out to take some photos of each other to give us some reference material. We walked around the area (which is my village if you recall) and took pics in an old English style phonebooth...I've wanted that pic since I moved in since it's on the Ziggy Stardust album jacket (if you remember what an album is). We walked to other areas as well so it was fun for first thing in the morning.
Next we were sent in to work on our photos for our "work life" shots...if we wrote up tutorials, got interviewed, etc then we have a stock pro photo that we worked on ourselves. The upside is that it looks very good, the downside is that I don't look exactly like that! Using our photoshop techniques I opened up my sleepy eyes, whitened the whites, cleared and balanced my skin, removed some wrinkles (not many were there thankfully), cleaned up the glass in the phone booth, lightened me up since I was in a shadow, and made the booth more red. Also I gave myself a slight nose job! so it's crazy what I can do now!
Next we had a website we designed critiqued, I won't complain (much) since it was only the second I ever tried on my own...but with some helpful critiques I think I'll get there.
Finally I did some tutorials (as seen on facebook), it was irritating since the authors don't tell you all the information that you need to know ahead of time. So it took me 4 tries to perfect what needed to be done. I went from over an hour in a try to about 10 min. So I'm not sure if that's part of the learning path but I ended up doing somethings on my own to make it work--not so bad! I think I should make this into a postage stamp!
Anyway I feel optimistic that I am learning a lot and getting better at my craft...although not fast enough for me of course!
Wednesday, June 2, 2010
It's Hard to be a Saint in the City
No one reading this blog would know this, very often I think in songs. Not like a musical that seems all weird an inappropriate. More like I get a song or lyric in my head and it's with me all day, 98.2% of the time it's a song I like. Today it's the title of this blog.
If you don't realize I am a Bowie fan. I have over 100 gb of concert bootlegs and almost 100 bootleg dvds of interviews and concerts. Bowie is one of the few artists that has never cared about the fact his music is out there without a direct link to his wallet. His attitude is that at least it's out there and the true fans will buy whatever he can put out there...very true for me at least!
Why this is relevant is that while some people would be annoyed having a tune stuck all day long, I think it helps me create. I had Bowie's in Space (linked to the video)by Flight of the Conchords until I broke down and made a typography poster for class...it was overkill for what was assigned, but that's my style too ;-) Thankfully I did get a couple big projects done...now to get back to the Iman project...lol.
While Bruce Springsteen wrote the lyrics, of course I prefer the Bowie version. I linked the title to the Bowie version...Enjoy!)
It's Hard To Be A Saint In The City
I had skin like leather and the diamond-hard look of a cobra
I was born blue and weathered but I burst just like a supernova
I could walk like Brando right into the sun
Then dance just like a Casanova
With my blackjack and jacket and hair slicked sweet
Silver star studs on my duds like a Harley in heat
When I strut down the street I could hear its heartbeat
The sisters fell back and said "Don't that man look pretty"
The cripple on the corner cried out "Nickels for your pity"
Them gasoline boys downtown sure talk gritty
It's so hard to be a saint in the city
I was the king of the alley, mama, I could talk some trash
I was the prince of the paupers crowned downtown at the beggar's bash
I was the pimp's main prophet I kept everything cool
Just a backstreet gambler with the luck to lose
And when the heat came down it was left on the ground
The devil appeared like Jesus through the steam in the street
Showin' me a hand I knew even the cops couldn't beat
I felt his hot breath on my neck as I dove into the heat
It's so hard to be a saint when you're just a boy out on the street
And the sages of the subway sit just like the living dead
As the tracks clack out the rhythm their eyes fixed straight ahead
They ride the line of balance and hold on by just a thread
But it's too hot in these tunnels you can get hit up by the heat
You get up to get out at your next stop but they push you back down in your seat
Your heart starts beatin' faster as you struggle to your feet
Then you're outa that hole and back up on the street
And them South Side sisters sure look pretty
The cripple on the corner cries out "Nickels for your pity"
And them downtown boys sure talk gritty
It's so hard to be a saint in the city
If you don't realize I am a Bowie fan. I have over 100 gb of concert bootlegs and almost 100 bootleg dvds of interviews and concerts. Bowie is one of the few artists that has never cared about the fact his music is out there without a direct link to his wallet. His attitude is that at least it's out there and the true fans will buy whatever he can put out there...very true for me at least!
Why this is relevant is that while some people would be annoyed having a tune stuck all day long, I think it helps me create. I had Bowie's in Space (linked to the video)by Flight of the Conchords until I broke down and made a typography poster for class...it was overkill for what was assigned, but that's my style too ;-) Thankfully I did get a couple big projects done...now to get back to the Iman project...lol.
While Bruce Springsteen wrote the lyrics, of course I prefer the Bowie version. I linked the title to the Bowie version...Enjoy!)
It's Hard To Be A Saint In The City
I had skin like leather and the diamond-hard look of a cobra
I was born blue and weathered but I burst just like a supernova
I could walk like Brando right into the sun
Then dance just like a Casanova
With my blackjack and jacket and hair slicked sweet
Silver star studs on my duds like a Harley in heat
When I strut down the street I could hear its heartbeat
The sisters fell back and said "Don't that man look pretty"
The cripple on the corner cried out "Nickels for your pity"
Them gasoline boys downtown sure talk gritty
It's so hard to be a saint in the city
I was the king of the alley, mama, I could talk some trash
I was the prince of the paupers crowned downtown at the beggar's bash
I was the pimp's main prophet I kept everything cool
Just a backstreet gambler with the luck to lose
And when the heat came down it was left on the ground
The devil appeared like Jesus through the steam in the street
Showin' me a hand I knew even the cops couldn't beat
I felt his hot breath on my neck as I dove into the heat
It's so hard to be a saint when you're just a boy out on the street
And the sages of the subway sit just like the living dead
As the tracks clack out the rhythm their eyes fixed straight ahead
They ride the line of balance and hold on by just a thread
But it's too hot in these tunnels you can get hit up by the heat
You get up to get out at your next stop but they push you back down in your seat
Your heart starts beatin' faster as you struggle to your feet
Then you're outa that hole and back up on the street
And them South Side sisters sure look pretty
The cripple on the corner cries out "Nickels for your pity"
And them downtown boys sure talk gritty
It's so hard to be a saint in the city
Tuesday, June 1, 2010
Finally a Sunny Day!
It seems like a week since I saw the sun...last week Friday I think? Rain, snow, cloudiness...but luckily or not I'm mostly indoors in a controlled environment where the air conditioner is so cold we have to bring a jacket and wear it in the class! lol.
I'm pretty excited about forming my company and doing work with that...it's what I've been thinking about for the past few years so it will be nice to get that going. Even better to get work, then to get so much work that I need people to come on board to help, then enough for me to travel and do the work while I'm abroad! People might laugh or roll their eyes at my words, but I have a pretty good track record for obtaining my goals!
I'm pretty excited about forming my company and doing work with that...it's what I've been thinking about for the past few years so it will be nice to get that going. Even better to get work, then to get so much work that I need people to come on board to help, then enough for me to travel and do the work while I'm abroad! People might laugh or roll their eyes at my words, but I have a pretty good track record for obtaining my goals!
Monday, May 31, 2010
Logo Design
Working towards the plan of having my own company (or at least consulting), each of us in the class have been making our own logos and company names. Fits into my plan nicely!
After a lengthy brainstorming session my company will be called Vivid Pulp Media. I especially like the reference to the pulp fiction of the 50's - making this the New Digital Pulp Media company. Today I came up 16 variations of logos, building, changing and evolving (so I hope). I'll be sure to post it once it's completed!
Another projects that is interesting is the reworking of a failed site design. I have the header complete so now just the rest to get done. Images to come later....
After a lengthy brainstorming session my company will be called Vivid Pulp Media. I especially like the reference to the pulp fiction of the 50's - making this the New Digital Pulp Media company. Today I came up 16 variations of logos, building, changing and evolving (so I hope). I'll be sure to post it once it's completed!
Another projects that is interesting is the reworking of a failed site design. I have the header complete so now just the rest to get done. Images to come later....
What Monday again!!??
Yes it's Monday morning and I was in at college all weekend. Got a few projects out of the way...but there is always more. Restarted my Iman image, didn't put as many hours in it as the previous weekend, but it's getting there...I anticipate it will be done this weekend.
Funny thing I heard, if I post images on Facebook, Facebook retains the "rights" to that image...having been in business I can understand why they do that, in case of system crash it is then their property and I as the consumer don't have a right to be upset. However there is something a bit sinister about someone else owning what I spent a ridiculous amount of hours on....
Funny thing I heard, if I post images on Facebook, Facebook retains the "rights" to that image...having been in business I can understand why they do that, in case of system crash it is then their property and I as the consumer don't have a right to be upset. However there is something a bit sinister about someone else owning what I spent a ridiculous amount of hours on....
Sunday, May 30, 2010
Sunday after the blizzard
Well yesterday was a bit of a shock! It had rained all morning when I went to school. The around 5 when I left school it was snowing...first it was a wet snow...but it was actually collecting on the ground!?!? Here it is the end of May, practically June and it was snowing like this...All that ran through my head was the words I used for my last job when I wasn't happy and prepared to move on..."Prepare for my eventual departure" but this time it was in relation to this country...lol.
I need to live somewhere warmer...any suggestions? I'd be open to moving...lol
I need to live somewhere warmer...any suggestions? I'd be open to moving...lol
Saturday, May 29, 2010
Working at school
Well today I definitely don't feel like I'm missing much...it's been raining outside all morning and I'm hoping I didn't jinx myself with the last post about rain washing away the old and making a new day...lol. I always forget to be very specific about the things I wish for!
I purposely came in later than my usual early, early morning to sleep in and do some laundry...not at all glamorous in any sense but those are things that had to be done and that I've ignored for a while now since I overly focused on school.
I've restarted work on my Iman image but taking it easy, I'm hoping to finish it tomorrow but we'll see how it goes...I still have early mornings to get stuff done. Have some work to do with Icons tomorrow too, but thankfully I'm almost done dispute the face that it seems that two of my instructors have conflicting views as to what makes good icons...no matter I'll display my work on Facebook once complete!.
I purposely came in later than my usual early, early morning to sleep in and do some laundry...not at all glamorous in any sense but those are things that had to be done and that I've ignored for a while now since I overly focused on school.
I've restarted work on my Iman image but taking it easy, I'm hoping to finish it tomorrow but we'll see how it goes...I still have early mornings to get stuff done. Have some work to do with Icons tomorrow too, but thankfully I'm almost done dispute the face that it seems that two of my instructors have conflicting views as to what makes good icons...no matter I'll display my work on Facebook once complete!.
Friday, May 28, 2010
Rainy Friday
Maybe I'm a little odd or different (and I tell everyone that I am), but when it rains I feel optimistic. Like everything is starting fresh again...of course it isn't really possible, but with the crazy amount of projects going on, the sudden search for part time work, bills piling up, divorce papers waiting to go through...it's good to have the renewal feeling now and then.
I'll try to get a lot of work done today (like everyday) and see if I can get my self to leave the school for 6, maybe go to the gym and read a book (paper...what the hell is that??)...
more later...
I'll try to get a lot of work done today (like everyday) and see if I can get my self to leave the school for 6, maybe go to the gym and read a book (paper...what the hell is that??)...
more later...
Thursday, May 27, 2010
Leaving early for once!
...Well of twice! In an effort to reduce my exposure to White Pixel Retinal Burn Syndrome I've been trying to leave school at a semi decent time...which for me is around 7. Course I come in between 6 - 7 am if I have the key and get stuff done.
Next I'll have to find some part time work, maybe Sobey's or Save-on if worse comes to worse...bills are piling up and there doesn't seem to be an end in sight. Hmmm I remember I use to go to the gym too...
Next I'll have to find some part time work, maybe Sobey's or Save-on if worse comes to worse...bills are piling up and there doesn't seem to be an end in sight. Hmmm I remember I use to go to the gym too...
Wings and Beer!
So far this week, twice I was suppose to go out for wings and beer and both times something happened where I couldn't go...This is pretty disappointing for me...lol. Now of course I'll be craving it all day. I wonder where I could get decent winds on a Thursday? Of course it's the best if their on sale too...lol!
Alphabet book
First let me say that it was a beautiful morning as I walked to school. It was 630, the sun shining, birds singing, brisk but not cold...then I walk into a dimly lit classroom to sit in front of a Mac. But that's ok since I think I have completed about 85% of the Alphabet book project. Using InDesign and saving the "styles" got the book practically done in no time. The pain? Printing the mini book and aligning the text so it looks centered and not cut off...shouldn't be so bad right? Well you know I can go crazy over being a bit too detailed...more to come!
Wednesday, May 26, 2010
Another project down!
Finished another project last night. It was to recreate and existing website in Photoshop. It was a bit harder than I expected...but I'll be able to go to the next project (due Fri morning) and make my own mock-up of a site. This one we'll get to actually design so that will be cool...though I learned not to go crazy adding in my 200%...120% should be ok for some projects ;-)
Tuesday, May 25, 2010
"Mac Crazy-Eye" Subsiding
Well thank goodness...downloading "Shades" for the Mac really helped me out today. Turns out the lowest setting on the Mac was still pretty bright, and on a 24" screen 2 feet from my face...I suppose working on one project like a crazy man all weekend didn't help much either. Anyway the end of this note is that I'm feeling better.
Also I'm making a plan to do work only part of the day so I can see things like the gym, sun, friends, etc...lol.
I'm a bit behind on projects but quickly catching up so I can feel good about that. Also that I got some pretty good feedback on my David Carson style poster (link included below).
http://www.facebook.com/photo.php?pid=5961498&l=0046ede675&id=524991538
Also I'm making a plan to do work only part of the day so I can see things like the gym, sun, friends, etc...lol.
I'm a bit behind on projects but quickly catching up so I can feel good about that. Also that I got some pretty good feedback on my David Carson style poster (link included below).
http://www.facebook.com/photo.php?pid=5961498&l=0046ede675&id=524991538
My villiage - Downtown
You know, I just love living downtown. I even don't mind that it's downtown "Edmonton"! I live a block away from my college, 2 small blocks to City Center Mall, 3 blocks to my gym, and 4 blocks from the supermarket...I feel like my village is the downtown area. I suppose it really is since I know the local merchants, neighbors, and recognize the usual vagrants (and they recognize me so they finally stopped asking me for change since I don't work at the moment). All in all I'm pretty content with my living situation...
Next I have to get past my WPRB Syndrome...took the entire night off away from anything that looks like a computer, and I'm still not feeling so hot this morning as I write this. I suppose I'll have to listen to my friends that said I should get out of the class now and then...I guess I won't quite my Club Fit membership just yet!
Getting a part time job might help this too...plus pay some bills. What to do, what to do...?
Next I have to get past my WPRB Syndrome...took the entire night off away from anything that looks like a computer, and I'm still not feeling so hot this morning as I write this. I suppose I'll have to listen to my friends that said I should get out of the class now and then...I guess I won't quite my Club Fit membership just yet!
Getting a part time job might help this too...plus pay some bills. What to do, what to do...?
Monday, May 24, 2010
White Pixel Retinal Burn Syndrome...
I am sad to report that apparently I am a WPRBS sufferer. I can no longer look at the Mac's white screen without feeling sick. When I close my eyes I still see the white screen and feel it's a type of motion sickness! I imagine this is normal for some people who deal with Mac's a lot, but also it might mean that I need a break...So far I've logged 66+ hours working on this vector image, over 20 just in this weekend...unfortunately I might have to give it a rest.
I've heard that victims of WPRBS seem to respond best with beer therapy...
ps. Decided to call this affliction "Mac Crazy-Eye" for public media attention...lol
I've heard that victims of WPRBS seem to respond best with beer therapy...
ps. Decided to call this affliction "Mac Crazy-Eye" for public media attention...lol
Victoria Day!
It is the start of Monday morning...and I slept in a little, till 630! I still have a lot of work to do on my image of Iman...but I hope I'm on track to get it done today. There are so many other projects and although I totally enjoy creating this image, it consumes all my time. It's my own fault since I tend to be too detailed...but I am who I am...lol!
Sunday, May 23, 2010
Long Weekend Sunday
It's just about 6 am and I just got to school. My lava lamp that sits on my desk is warming up and I have to get my social networking out of the way before I can start work. That describes how I work for the most part, I need 15-30 min of doing my own thing before jumping on the tasks for the day. I think that today I will be very close to getting my vector image of Iman completed. I finished the most difficult part...the upper right quadrant of hair. It took near 1.5 days to do it (over 15 hours) but the results are worth it!
For those that do not know, our class had an assignment to make a vector image in Illustrator. Basically it is a tracing using shapes and lines. Due to the vast amount work required, you would try to limit the extreme detail. Of course being who I am, I went pretty extreme, but the result will be an awesome vector image that I can use for my portfolio. The other advantage is that the image can be re-sized to whatever format you want. 8.5x11" or 8x11 Feet! So I'm excited that eventually I will have some art I can hang up in my place.
Actually through Facebook I've had some people inquiring about buying this piece or other similar work like this. Unfortunately it won't be right away since it will be for a lounge that will open in a few months...looks like a part time job will not be far away after all...
ps. I thought I should add for those in the know...that the image is done without the use of "live-trace"...strictly the pen and pencil tool!
For those that do not know, our class had an assignment to make a vector image in Illustrator. Basically it is a tracing using shapes and lines. Due to the vast amount work required, you would try to limit the extreme detail. Of course being who I am, I went pretty extreme, but the result will be an awesome vector image that I can use for my portfolio. The other advantage is that the image can be re-sized to whatever format you want. 8.5x11" or 8x11 Feet! So I'm excited that eventually I will have some art I can hang up in my place.
Actually through Facebook I've had some people inquiring about buying this piece or other similar work like this. Unfortunately it won't be right away since it will be for a lounge that will open in a few months...looks like a part time job will not be far away after all...
ps. I thought I should add for those in the know...that the image is done without the use of "live-trace"...strictly the pen and pencil tool!
Saturday, May 22, 2010
Saturday Morning
An early day for me, though not as early as usual. Lately I have been waking up at 4-430 am to work on projects. I use to have a problem sleeping but working on so many cool projects (not to mention that I have a tendency to make some projects bigger by doing 120% of what's needed). Luckily I have a key to the college this weekend so I anticipate on getting a lot done.
Check out my facebook account for an album of some of my completed projects :-)
Facebook Album
Check out my facebook account for an album of some of my completed projects :-)
Facebook Album
Friday, May 21, 2010
Before the long weekend...
Well it's Friday and the beginning of the long weekend. This time last year I would have been having beers with coworkers and planning some get-together parties with friends. This year is very different. Lots of projects for school, but I find it so rewarding...if only I didn't have bills to pay...lol...
The first entry of many....
Well I have to admit I was never really interested in blogging or reading blogs. However as I am entering another phase of my professional career, networking...specific all online networking has become more important. While I always had strong network ties to friends and colleagues, social networks like facebook, Empire Avenue, etc have a tenuous thread to people we might not exactly know.
With that out of the way, I intend to use this blog for thoughts on projects I'm working on. I don't think it will be too personal...but time will tell how things evolve.
Enjoy the Net!
Dano
EAVB_FZTXJNEKFZ
With that out of the way, I intend to use this blog for thoughts on projects I'm working on. I don't think it will be too personal...but time will tell how things evolve.
Enjoy the Net!
Dano
EAVB_FZTXJNEKFZ
Subscribe to:
Comments (Atom)
