Some of you more artistically knowledgeable people will probably suggest a finer comparison than Vermeer. Rembrandt or van Eyck, perhaps?
However, I do think the composition, colour, mood and lighting of these photographs by Desiree Dolron, are exquisite enough to be compared to the great master.
They are faultless works of art.
By Desiree Dolron
Filed under Art, Contemporary Arts, Creativity, Ideas, Inspiration, Photography
Mike McGinn is an Edinburgh-based artist whose work I love. Full of energy and emotion. There is something quite haunting and melancholy about the expressions he captures.
I first became aware of his work when he very kindly donated a piece to the Japan Art Auction I held in 2011 for victims of the tsunami.
Unfortunately, I was outbid for it. (It was fortunate for the auction, mind.)
Hope you enjoy his work as much as I do…
Donated to the Japan Art Auction
Like most artists, self-publicity isn’t high on Mike’s priority list. So, if you would like to buy one of his paintings, or commission a piece, drop me a line and I can put you in touch with him.
Filed under Art, Contemporary Arts, Creativity, Illustration, Inspiration
Amedeo Clemente Modigliani
Born 12th July 1884 – Died 24th January 1920
I know I’m a few days late with this, but seeing as though Amedeo Modigliani is one of my favourite artists, I thought better late than never.
Tragically, Modigliani died of tubercular meningitis on the 24th January 1920, aged just 35.
What is equally as tragic is that his wife, and muse, Jeanne Hébuterne, was so devastated that the following day she threw herself from the 5th floor of her parents’ home, killing herself and her unborn second child.
Fortunately, their first child, Jeanne Modigliani (1918 – 1984), was adopted by Amedeo’s sister and was brought up in Florence, Italy.
Jeanne Hébuterne
Jeanne Modigliani, daughter.
I was first introduced to Modigliani’s work by my mate, Markham, who very kindly gave me a sumptuously framed print of this piece…
Seated Nude
As you can see, Modigliani was very heavily influenced by African masks and sculpture, creating elongated forms and mask-like faces.
He died a pauper. But, as is the way of the world, in 2010 “La belle Romaine” sold for $69 million.
His work inspired me to write a short story, and subsequent screenplay, entitled: “Jeanne, reclining nude, 1917″, about a First World War veteran recuperating in the South of France after losing his left hand.
It isn’t a biographical piece, but moreover, explores the themes of physical and emotional cripples when he begins a relationship with his prostitute model.
Jeanne Hébuterene
Lunia Czechovska
Leopold Zborowski II
Reclining Nude
He was an extremely prolific artist, so if you get the chance to see any of his work in the flesh, I urge you to do so.
The world lost an undefinable prodigy 93 years ago.
RIP Amedeo Clemente Modigliani.
Jeanne Hébuterne
Reclining Nude with Loose Hair
Filed under Art, Inspiration, Literature, Writing, Sculpture, Disability, Contemporary Arts, Innovation
Luncheon of the Boating Party, 1881. By Pierre-Auguste Renoir.
Well, it’s been a while…
Welcome to the first Boating Party interview of 2013.
The Boating Party is a series of interviews with writers, artists, photographers, filmmakers, musicians, sculptors, illustrators, designers and the like.
In times of economic hardship, the Arts are usually the first things to be axed. But, in my view, the Arts are the most important aspect of our civilisation. Without the arts, we wouldn’t have language or the written word. Without the arts, we have no culture. Without culture, we have no society. Without society, we have no civilisation. And without civilisation, we have anarchy. Which, in itself, is paradoxical, because so many artists view themselves as rebels to society.
To me, artists aren’t rebels, they are pioneers.
And perhaps, most importantly; without the Arts, where’s the creativity that will solve the world’s problems? Including economic and scientific ones?
First up, in this luckiest of lucky years, is Graphic Artist, Eoin Coveney…
Eoin Coveney
What’s your greatest personal or career achievement?
Working with, and being mentored by, the late Will Eisner.
What’s been your greatest sacrifice?
I really can’t think of one. Maybe I sacrificed some of my social life working in a solitary environment?
To whom do you owe a debt of gratitude?
I owe Steve McManus of 2000AD for giving me a meeting many years ago even though it was against their policy.
Who and what inspire you?
European masters of the graphic novel such as Moebius and Cam Kennedy.
Music and cinema also.
What was the last thing that inspired you?
Drawing a 6- page comic strip written by Gordon Rennie. It was a politics / zombie satire which was a joy to work on.
What makes you unhappy?
Lack of enthusiasm.
What makes you happy?
Trust.
What are you reading?
Nothing right now. My last was “A short history of nearly everything” by Bill Bryson.
Who, or what, are you listening to?
Lots of dark ambient right now.
What’s your favourite film?
Impossible to narrow it down. “The Host” is pretty close to perfect.
If you could go back in time, where would you go?
I’d probably be too worried about getting stuck there so I would stay here given the choice.
What frightens you?
Laziness.
What do you do to relax?
Noodling around on my microKorg.
What do you do when you’re angry?
Scream into a pillow.
What can’t you live without?
I would say music.
What’s your motto?
Keep on learning and improving.
What’s your Utopia?
Probably West Cork in August.
If you only had one year to live what would you do?
Six months frenzied work, three months of traveling and another three months of relaxing with friends and loved ones.
Up who’s arse would you like to stick a rocket, and why?
Probably Damien Hirst because he doesn’t feel the need to manufacture and craft his own art.
Who would you like to be stuck in an elevator with?
Howard Marks.
What are you working on at the moment?
“American Caesar”, a graphic novel written by Neil Kleid.
What is your ambition?
To work hard on cool projects with brilliant people.
If you could change one thing in the world, what would it be?
I’d like to turn down the dial on human greed a good few notches.
Which six people would you invite to your boating party?
Fiancée, parents, 3 close friends… no celebrities!
What would be on the menu?
Greek food.
What question would you liked me to have asked?
“What’s it all about?”
Thank you, Eoin.
Artist’s statement:
I have been illustrating professionally for 14 years. For the first ten of those years, I worked mostly on the pre-production phase for many of Dublin’s top advertising agencies. Producing storyboards & visuals for hundreds of campaigns.
In 2005 I joined the Illustrators Guild of Ireland, and since then have broadened my range of styles and disciplines. These days, my work is split pretty evenly between illustration for ad campaigns, book covers and interiors, press and magazine work as well as pre-production work. Private commissions also undertaken.
Filed under Advertising, Animation, Art, Cartoons, Contemporary Arts, Creativity, Ideas, Illustration, Inspiration, The Boating Party
Luncheon of the Boating Party, 1881. By Pierre-Auguste Renoir.
The Boating Party is a series of interviews with writers, artists, photographers, filmmakers, musicians, sculptors, designers and the like.
In times of economic hardship the Arts are usually the first things to be axed. But, in my view, the Arts are the most important aspect of our civilisation. Without the arts, we wouldn’t have language or the written word. Without the arts, we have no culture. Without culture, we have no society. Without society, we have no civilisation. And without civilisation, we have anarchy. Which, in itself, is paradoxical, because so many people view artists as rebels to society.
To me, artists aren’t rebels, they are pioneers.
And perhaps, most importantly; without the Arts, where’s the creativity that will solve the world’s problems? Including economic and scientific ones?
This week, I’m delighted to welcome ceramic artist, Tone von Krogh.
Tone on the wheel
What’s your greatest personal or career achievement?
In some ways I feel I’ve not reached the point of my journey where I’m counting my achievements. However, being able to do what I love on a daily basis is my highest achievement as much as work in constant progress.
What’s been your greatest sacrifice?
I don’t think I have made many sacrifices. I moved to a new country to follow my love for ceramics and dream to take it further. I found another love which meant I settled here. At times it is hard to live far away from close family, but I have my own little one now…
When baby number two came along, I put the ceramics a side for a for a while. It felt like a hard decision to make at the time, but we were starting a build a total house renovation, so something had to give. When, after 3 years, the girls were both at school and I could move into my brand new garden studio, it felt like I had never left my business. I wouldn’t have missed those years with my girls for anything in the world.
To whom do you owe a debt of gratitude?
I’m sure there will be many more than I remember to mention here.
One of many, is my tutor at college in Norway, Peer Bjarne Moen for encouraging me to be me and express it in my work. I would not have followed my dream so confidently without his faith and push.
My family and friends for their continuous support, encouragement, patience and help.
Fellow designers and artists for networking, inspiration and critique. And, of course, to all the galleries who promote my work.
Who and what inspire you?
The material clay itself really inspires me. The softness, its ability to take whichever shape you squeeze it into as well as the transformation from clay to ceramics.
I have always had a strong love for Scandinavian – and particularly Norwegian – woodlands and coastal landscapes. My current collection “Vinter” is directly inspired, as the name suggests, by winter and snow covered landscapes. The shapes are soft with indentations and bulges added to hint at something under the surface. After a heavy snow fall, all sounds are muted and objects become unrecognizable with sharp edges rounded. In a landscape, a bulge in the snow may cover a rock or a small tree or a man-made object.
It is this feeling of mystery, or lack of obviousness, that I am trying to express in the surfaces of my pieces, despite the main shape of the piece suggesting a certain function.
What was the last thing that inspired you?
Little things inspire me all the time. A fairly recent moment was earlier this year whilst celebrating my 40th birthday in Switzerland. My partner and I were taking shelter in a mountain hut from a blizzard outside. Through the window I could see these amazing ridged snow swirls forming. I ran out and took lots of pictures with my phone as the folds continuously changed shape. I have been trying to achieve the same effect in my work ever since.
What makes you unhappy?
Hatred, unfairness, ignorance…. Unhappy children.
Kiln disasters.
What makes you happy?
Good music, creating, sunshine…. Happy children.
What are you reading?
In a normal week I’ll be lucky if I get to read the Observer on Sunday. The last time I read a book was in the summer holiday. Solar by my favorite author Ian McEwan. Not a typical book for him, I laughed out loud several times, which is rare when I read any of his books.
Who, or what, are you listening to?
I listen to anything from Melody Gardot to Muse… depending on what I do. In the studio I listen to Xfm which gives me a daily dose of The Cure and lots of other old favorites. I went to see Django Django live last week. They were so much better live than I expected.
What’s your favourite film?
Difficult to choose. I don’t watch many films twice because I hate repetition and knowing what happens…. One of the few that I don’t mind watching again is Jean-Pierre Jeunet’s – Amelie.
If you could go back in time, where would you go?
To a hot summer’s day….
What frightens you?
Anything happening to my children that I can’t make better. Not being able to do what I do due to ill health or other circumstances.
What can’t you live without?
Oxygen, water, nutrition and love.
What’s your motto?
Do what you love rather than what you think others want you to do. It will make you a lot happier and creative in the long run.
If you only had one year to live what would you do?
I would do what I do now for most of the year and then throw a big party for my family and friends.
Up who’s arse would you like to stick a rocket, and why?
Anyone moaning around me or getting in my way the next few weeks. I’m so busy getting ready for shows between now and December. Tolerance levels are low.
Who would you like to be stuck in an elevator with?
The thought of being stuck in an elevator should have been one of my answers to question twelve. Can’t think of anybody making that situation any better except for a lift engineer or escapologist. I am not good in confinement of any kind.
What are you working on at the moment?
This is my busiest time of year. I am getting ready for 3 big shows (http://issuu.com/lakesideartscentre/docs/lustre2012 , http://www.herefordshire.gov.uk/craftfair/index.htm , http://www.madebyhand-wales.co.uk/) all in November, as well as making work for Christmas exhibitions and general gallery top up. I spent the whole day on the potter’s wheel today making vases and bottles. I also started playing around with some new ideas for lamp bases. I may be under time pressure, but I still love being in the studio making all day.
Which six people would you invite to your boating party?
Only six? I would fill the lake with boats and make sure all my best friends and fellow makers were there. Toe Rag would be a good band to invite for the musical entertainment.
What question would you liked me to have asked?
I’m quite happy to stop before I rant on even more…. Some tricky questions there already.
Thank you, Tone.
Inspiring snow
Cup and saucer detail
Bowls
Artist’s biography:
I was born in Switzerland, but spent most of my childhood and college years in Norway. In 1994 I came to England on an exchange program with Manchester Metropolitan University and graduated in 3Dimensional Design in 1995. After years of having studios at various art centres, I now work from a purpose built studio in my garden.
My work has been widely exhibited in the UK as well as Norway, France, USA and Dubai. The work is also sold through the website www.madebyhandonline.com
My current collection of contemporary domestic Ceramics is strongly influenced by my impressions from the winter landscapes in Norway. When the snow covers trees, rocks, paths and architecture; sharp edges become soft and everyday shapes may become unrecognizable. I have tried to bring the same feel to my work with a range of wavy vases and softly distorted beakers, bowls and bottles. The colour range is reflecting the many tones of snow and ice and winter skies.
The work is produced using a potter’s wheel, but then cut and reassembled to non circular shapes or given soft dimples or bumps. I use food friendly glazes and fire the work to stoneware temperatures.
Ed: (Top tip, if you visit her webpage and decide to buy lots of her lovely work, her first name is pronounced: Torna.)
Filed under Art, Ceramics, Contemporary Arts, Creativity, Design, Education, Ideas, Illustration, Innovation, Inspiration, Photography, Sculpture, The Boating Party
True, it may not be as ambitious and world-changing as Dr. Martin Luther King Jr’s. But it’s a dream nonetheless.
To be honest, I wasn’t going to post about it until I felt I was in more of a position to realise this dream. But short of winning the Euro Millions Lottery, it aint going to happen without some serious philanthropic backer.
So, what is my dream?
Well, it’s to build a School of Arts for under-privileged kids.
Kids from low socioeconomic backgrounds in large inner-city estates. Kids who might not ordinarily get the opportunity to explore the more creative aspects of their nature.
What good would that do society? We’re in a depression, don’t you know!
Problems in every field of human endeavour are virtually always solved by creative thinking. Even the great Albert Einstein said so himself. Creativity allows us to look at problems from different angles and apply new thinking to solve problems.
Moreover, I don’t see it as a school that produces an unprecedented amount of artists. But an unprecedented amount of creative thinkers – whichever vocation they choose to pursue later in life. Whether it be mathematics, science, business, computers, product design, or economics.
And yes, a few more more artists too. And what’s wrong with that? Art is seen as a dirty word in this country. If I tell people I write poetry, they shift uneasily in their seats. If I said I write poetry in Ireland the response would be a polite smile and a nod toward the back of the queue.
Do you think the first rocket flight to the moon was dreamed up by a scientist?
Sure, scientists and engineers made it a reality. But it is creative people who come up with the ideas and the original solutions of how they can be achieved.
What will the kids do?
The school will develop and encourage creative thinking and self-expression.
It will foster, nurture and encourage exploration of the arts in all its many and varied forms including: painting, drawing, sculpture, ceramics, poetry, literature, screenplays, theatre, drama, dance, music, design, digital arts, film, photography, humanities, languages, and the classics.
Where is this school?
I quite fancy the idea of transforming a derelict Victorian mill. There’s something quite ironic about that. Though it certainly wouldn’t be a prerequisite. (Salts Mill in Bradford is a good example.)
Initially, an inner-city campus close to urban populations that have a high level of low socioeconomic families. Basically, anywhere across the Manchester – Huddersfield – Halifax – Leeds belt. It’s also sufficiently ‘central’ enough to accommodate children from further afield.
It would also be good to have a rural retreat – somewhere like the Lake District, Peak District or the Yorkshire Dales, where children can attend week-long courses/classes which double up as a holiday.
I would also like to open an international sister school in India or Sri Lanka where people from distinctly different cultures can share ideas. These schools could also participate in exchange programmes. (Then subsequently, even further afield: China, South America, South Asia.)
What about science subjects?
This school wouldn’t be a replacement for existing schools and their curricula – more of an extension to them.
Would it exclude people from non low socioeconomic backgrounds?
Not at all. But opportunities for middle-class families in other schools are much more accessible, regardless of ability.
Intake for low income kids would be based as much on desire and enthusiasm to participate rather than ability. There would be a limited number of places for more affluent children. Sort of like Eton – in reverse.
What kind of courses will it run?
Day-long workshops for visiting schools.
After-school classes.
Week-long courses. (Which would include accommodation for traveling students.)
Weekend classes.
Full-time sixth form courses. (A-levels.)
Masters and PhD courses.
What ages are we talking about?
Key Stage 3, up to, and including, sixth form.
Undergraduate, Masters and PhD courses.
What else does the school have?
Apart from studios and classrooms?
There’d be accommodation for students who are visiting from further afield.
Cafe / restaurant.
Gallery to promote and sell students’ work.
Gallery featuring independent contemporary and traditional art.
Masterclasses from guest lecturers.
State of the art library. (Both on and off-line.)
Book shop.
Art-house cinema.
Who will pay for it?
Well, that’s the biggest question of all.
A like-minded philanthropist would be nice.
Arts Council grant.
Lottery funding.
A percentage of Masters and PhD students’ tuition fees could go towards funding.
Sales from restaurant and galleries.
Fundraising / donations.
An Ideal World School of Arts.
Salts Mill, Bradford.
David Hockney at Salts Mill.
Salts Mill interior.
Studio space?
Any constructive criticism and advice about how to get something like this funded and off the ground would be greatly appreciated.
Filed under Advertising, Animation, Architecture, Art, Books, Brand, Cartoons, Ceramics, Children, Children's books, Children's stories, Classical music, Comedy, community, Contemporary Arts, Creativity, Dance, Design, Digital, Disability, Economy, Education, Film, Haiku, Ideas, Illustration, Innovation, Inspiration, Inventions, Literature, Music, Philosophy, Photography, Poetry, Radio, Screenplays, Sculpture, Short stories, Writing
Luncheon of the Boating Party, 1881. By Pierre-Auguste Renoir.
The Boating Party is a series of interviews with writers, artists, photographers, filmmakers, musicians, sculptors, designers and the like.
In times of economic hardship the Arts are usually the first things to be axed. But, in my view, the Arts are the most important aspect of our civilisation. Without the arts, we wouldn’t have language or the written word. Without the arts, we have no culture. Without culture, we have no society. Without society, we have no civilisation. And without civilisation, we have anarchy. Which, in itself, is paradoxical, because so many artists view themselves as rebels to society.
To me, artists aren’t rebels, they are pioneers.
And perhaps, most importantly; without the Arts, where’s the creativity that will solve the world’s problems? Including economic and scientific ones?
This week, I’m delighted to welcome Bristol based artist, Christelle Jones.
What’s your greatest personal achievement?
It hasn’t happened yet. At least, I hope it hasn’t happened. I want something to look forward to.
What’s your greatest career achievement?
Enjoying my work. When I started art school, I stopped dreading Monday mornings.
What’s been your greatest sacrifice?
I’m too selfish to make big sacrifices. However, I once sold a couple of Beastie Boys tickets, because something had cropped up at work. That wasn’t a sacrifice, though. That was just stupid.
To whom do you owe a debt of gratitude?
My parents. I had a great childhood, spent most of it outdoors, stayed up well past my bedtime and I’ve never been in any hurry to grow up.
Also, there are several inspirational Art and English teachers who I wanted to impress.
Who inspires you?
Artists, writers, photographers, directors, musicians, poets, sportspeople, scientists, engineers, intellectuals and comedians. Off the top of my head: Goya, Lucian Freud, Diane Arbus, Carol Ann Duffy, Peter Doig, Peter Cook, Francis Bacon, Paula Rego, Roddy Doyle, Roald Dahl, Bill Hicks, Grayson Perry, Rachel Whiteread, Mark Rothko, Steve Martin, Anish Kapoor, Tim Berners-Lee, Dave Allen, Stanley Kubrick, Leonardo Da Vinci, Ralph Steadman, David Pattern (my art teacher) Annie Leibovitz, Simon Armitage, Bill Cunningham, Bradley Wiggins, Joseph Beuys, Gerhard Richter, Mozart, Anthony Gormley, David Eggers, Jon Ronson, Jessica Ennis, Nick Cave, David Byrne, Don McCullin, Andy Goldsworthy, Edward Hopper, I.K. Brunel, Richard Avedon and on and on.
What inspires you?
Workaholics. High achievers. Daft optimists. People who never give up or give in. Google.
What was the last thing that inspired you?
Driving through Wiltshire on an autumn afternoon. The low sun had lit up a field full of hay bales, so there was this patch of bright cadmium yellow set against a huge, dark storm cloud.
What makes you unhappy?
The News. I don’t know what to believe anymore, especially after reading ‘Flat Earth News’ by Nick Davis – an excellent, but scary book.
What are you reading?
I’ve just finished reading Jon Ronson’s Out of the Ordinary: True Tales of Everyday Craziness.
Who, or what, are you listening to?
At the moment, as I’m writing, it’s the gas boiler. The TV, internet and radio are switched off. When I’m painting though, I listen to 6 Music.
What’s your favourite film?
Withnail & I. I can quote that film from start to finish. It’s a master class in swearing.
What frightens you?
vigilantcitizen.com and things that make you go ‘hmm.’
What can’t you live without?
Friends, family, laughter and my camera.
What’s your motto?
I saw a great quote in a South Wales sports centre. It said: Hard work beats talent when talent doesn’t work hard.
If you only had one year to live what would you do?
I’d sort out all the boring admin and hire a skip to save friends and relatives the hassle. I’d also like to make a video of myself hiding under a sheet, pretending to be a ghost, that would be played at my funeral to ‘lighten things up a bit’. After that, I’d probably live each day as if it was my last, move to the seaside and eat a lot of great food.
Up who’s arse would you like to stick a rocket, and why?
I can think of several politicians. Guy Fawkes had the right idea.
Who would you like to be stuck in an elevator with?
Greg Davis.
What are you working on at the moment?
3 large canvasses, (I’m still at the sketchbook stage at the moment), and running an after-school art club.
Which six people would you invite to your boating party?
Peter Cook, Grayson Perry, Bill Hicks, Mae West, The Dalai Lama and Dame Ellen MacArthur (well somebody needs to steer the boat).
What question would you have liked me to have asked?
“Do you need a bigger boat?”
Thank you, Christelle.
Sketchbook
Artist’s Statement.
With my recent work, there is an element of unpredictability. I start out with a rough idea, but I never really know what direction the painting will take. Often the painting takes on a life of its own. The trick is knowing when to stop. The loft is full of paintings either under or overworked, that look terrible, or even worse – look OK. It’s so frustrating, but when a painting goes right, it’s the best feeling in the world.
Filed under Art, Contemporary Arts, Creativity, Ideas, Illustration, Inspiration, Photography, The Boating Party
I don’t know Daniele Buetti. But I do know that I like the cut of his jib.
There’s something quite haunting about his images. As if they are expressing some hitherto unseen emotion to the naked eye. Almost like sub-atomic energy seen through a filter.
Normally, I like to research the subject of my posts before sharing. But sometimes, for the sake of expediency, I just want to get the work out there for others to enjoy as much as I do. If you want to know more about the artist, just click on any of his images.
Daniele Buetti
Daniele Buetti
Daniele Buetti
Daniele Buetti
Daniele Buetti
Filed under Art, Contemporary Arts, Creativity, Ideas, Illustration, Inspiration, Photography
Campbell’s Soup are celebrating fifty years since Andy Warhol immortalised their can of tomato soup by bringing out a range of limited edition labels.
If you’re in The States you can pick up one of these collectibles for a paltry 75 cents. (Bet they’ll be going for a damn sight more than on Ebay in years to come.)
Campbell’s own design team, in collaboration with The Andy Warhol Foundation for the Visual Arts, created the cans which will be on sale later this month.
50 years of Campbell’s.
The original Tomato Soup can, 1962. By Andy Warhol.
Filed under Advertising, Art, Brand, Contemporary Arts, Creativity, Cross of Iron, Design, Ideas, Innovation, Inspiration, Strategy
I came across this artist who wanted to remain anonymous for legal reasons.
They are very provocative pieces that challenge people’s perceptions about the real reasons why the west are engaged in conflicts around the globe.
The “I’m lovin’ war” series aim to make the statement that the real power and influence about who the west wages war against are large corporations and their profit margins.
Not intended to criticise the men and women of the armed forces – whose bravery is without question – the works are designed to illustrate how they are being duped by their governments and being used as private security forces for large corporations.
The idea proposes that, in the future, armies might go into battle sponsored by brands in the same way that sports are.
“i’m lovin’ war”, Artist Unknown. Click to enlarge.
Click to enlarge
Click to enlarge.
Personally, I’m more of a Burger King man.
Filed under Advertising, Art, Brand, community, Contemporary Arts, Creativity, Digital, Ideas, Innovation, Inspiration, Politics
David Milligan-Croft
