The Art and Times of Diana Ho

Back from the Dead

2010-06-18T23:08:00.000-04:00

My life has changed dramatically since the last time I posted here. I apologize for the lull, but maintaining a blog quickly fell to the bottom of my priority list. BUT I'm back(!) -for now- to tell you that you should head over to HERE on Tuesday, June 22, to check out Deep In Vein: Mantra, A Theatrical Concert Experience. My friend, Marlon Hurt, will be playing bass with his band, Deep In Vein, while Blue Man Group video superstar, Matt Tennie will work his magic. Oh, and did I mention that they're featuring my artwork? Pretty darn sweet. There's the cover art I did for their newest album, Mantra, above, with some weird color correction (I apologize). Anyway, if you feel like being awesome, you should come out to one of the two shows on Tuesday either at 8:30pm or 10pm. More info HERE.

Next time, perhaps a life update. We'll see. In the meantime, be good.

Mouth to Mouth Open Mic

2010-02-03T12:58:00.001-05:00

Alex Berger Record Release Show

2010-01-21T22:00:00.003-05:00

This is a poster design I did for one of the nicest people ever, Mr. Alex Berger. His new album, SNOW GLOBE will be 'dropping' on February 14, 2010. Be sure to go see him perform at Rockwood Music Hall. You will surely fall in love and maybe even get lucky (hey it's Valentine's Day and Lunar New Year...and it gets pretty crowded in there). He'll also be performing at the Haiti Benefit at City Winery on Monday, January 25.

And here's something I made with a leftover doodle I ended up not using:

Yay photoshop! Maybe I'll paint this later...

New York Sings for Haiti

2010-01-21T19:48:00.002-05:00

If you've got nothing to do this upcoming Monday and are feeling charitable, you should head over to City Winery to see this benefit show featuring the following amazingly talented people:

Ian Axel

Alex Berger
Nate Campany
Rosi Golan
Harper Blynn
Ari Hest
Greg Holden
Wes Hutchinson
Will Knox
Jay Nash
The Paper Raincoat
Martin Rivas
Amber Rubarth
Joey Ryan
The Spring Standards
Vienna Teng
The Wellspring

Featuring
Adam Christgau
Marika Hughes
Chris Kuffner
Tony Maceli
Craig Meyer
Kevin Rice
Melissa Tong
Ward Williams
+ Plenty of Surprise Guests

100% of your ticket price will go to Doctors without Borders. Buy tickets HERE.

The Art Market EXTENDED!

2010-01-11T19:47:00.005-05:00

SHOW & SELL: The Art Market at destination Art Space thus far has been pretty well-received, so they are extending it till the end of January! Now you have more time to procrastinate on buying that artwork under $500 that you've been wanting (but don't procrastinate too long, or else someone else will buy it).

CALLING THE DOG

2010-01-09T23:16:00.001-05:00

I'm really digging the new paintings that Jess Ruliffson has been making. Check out more at her blog, CALLING THE DOG.

edit: I should stop saying that I "dig" stuff. I gotta Shift F7 my vocabulary.

11:11

2010-01-08T21:11:00.003-05:00

If you are feeling bummed out, here is something that will make you laugh:

Man, sometimes I wish I was a musician.
You can find this and other entertaining 11:11 episodes on Alex Wong's blog.

By the way, The Paper Raincoat has been nominated for BEST EMERGING NYC BAND OF 2009. So take a little time to GO VOTE FOR THEM!! Oh, and did I mention--Jan-u-ary's here. =)

Updates and Upcoming

2010-01-08T18:35:00.007-05:00

Hi there. I hope 2010 is treating you well so far. As you can see, I'm still catching up on my 2009 slack! And speaking of slack, here are the rest of the images from that destination show (which is up for another couple days if you haven't seen it yet!)

Here's a terrible picture of them in their frames:

In other news, I've been working with HERE resident artist, Michael Bodel, on his dance-puppetry piece called Sonnambula. There will be two workshop performances this upcoming week on JANUARY 12th AND 13th at 7pm over at HERE Arts Center as a part of Culturemart. So if you have time and 15 bucks, make sure you go check it out!! While you're there, you can take a look at some sweet drawings by Brad Greenwood in his show If David Hockney Was My Boyfriend.

==
Another show you should check out is The Foundry Theatre's THE MYOPIA: AN EPIC BURLESQUE OF TRAGIC PROPORTION (and performed on weekends with PLAYS by Gertrude Stein). I recently worked on the program for them and it looks like it's going to be really great. More details here.

==
Furthermore, I finished album art for the wonderfully talented Alex Berger's upcoming debut record, Snow Globe. I don't want to share the image just yet, but here is a sneak peak:

You can see him live either on MONDAY, JANUARY 11th at The Living Room at 8PM or when the new record comes out on FEBRUARY 14th at Rockwood Music Hall at 8PM! Someone recently told me that his voice makes people melt a little in the nether regions, so you're guaranteed to love him. I don't disagree. Was that TMI?

==
And lastly, I made a lot of these in the last month:

Phyllis-philic

2009-12-10T17:53:00.001-05:00

Today, I ran into an old friend of mine from high school, Miss Phyllis Ma. I haven't seen her since AP Art!! She is an incredible artist and I have always admired her work. Here's a cool video piece she did:

Variations on Car Alarm from phyllis ma on Vimeo.

Be sure to look at her other work HERE. (<--edit: UPDATED WEBSITE!!)

Life in ComiColor

2009-12-10T11:31:00.005-05:00

The other day, I revisited my love for ComiColor Cartoons. Here are the two I grew up watching:

(probably one of my favorite cartoons ever)

Things I learned from rewatching these:
-You mature a lot faster when you get involved with a bad egg.
-Goldilocks is a real bitch.
-Animation in the '30s was pretty stunning. I wish more animation nowadays were like this.

This doesn't involve ComiColor, but I also watched A Charlie Brown Christmas, since I was feeling like "the Charliest Browniest of them all" yesterday. His friends are such a-holes. It's no wonder he is depressed. However, this movie always ultimately puts a smile on my face. You can catch the short, hacked up version on Hulu:

SACHIKA Holiday Collection

2009-12-09T18:26:00.003-05:00

I'm totally digging SACHIKA's new line for this holiday season. If only I had some extra money to spend on a nice dress! Well if you've got the cash flow going, you should check out their line, as well as their other dresses over at www.sachika.com.

The designers of SACHIKA are twin sisters, To-Tam and To-Nya, who are not only beautiful, but are super talented (and also sing very well!) Keep up with them over at their blog, The Real Twins of NYC.

Random Musings and High Ceilings

2009-12-06T22:16:00.001-05:00

There's a great blog entry about the Vienna Teng and Alex Wong duo (aka Wong-Teng Clan) show at Joe's Pub this past Thursday over at Random Musings. I just wanted to thank Hadar for mentioning the work I've done for them and The Paper Raincoat. Thanks, Hadar!

And speaking of Alex Wong, he just launched his brand new website-- High Ceilings Music. You should definitely go take a look and listen because he's awesome and multi-talented! ...ladies.

Jaz Harold's PILL PALS at MF Gallery

2009-12-02T22:46:00.001-05:00

Jaz Harold will be showing some of her PILL PALS at MF Gallery in Gowanus, Brooklyn THIS SATURDAY, DECEMBER 5, from 7 to 10pm. The address is 213 Bond Street between Butler and Baltic. Make sure you stop by; you'll surely want to bring home one of these adorable fellahs:

THIS WEEK: Places To Be

2009-12-01T16:35:00.008-05:00

If you feel like being social and seeing cool stuff, this week is the time to do it!

TOMORROW
Wednesday, December 2nd

SHOW&SELL: The Art Market
at destination Art Space (last show of the year!)
Opening reception 6-8pm

I'll be showing some new pieces in this, along with other awesome artists like Jess Ruliffson, Ana Benaroya, Eric Hosford, and Eric Collins. Even if you can't make it to the opening, you should see the work some other time. It's up until January 10th. Everything is $500 and under so you can get some great affordable art for the holidays.

THURSDAY, December 3rd

VIENNA TENG & ALEX WONG
Live album recording at JOE'S PUB
7:30pm and 9:30pm shows
These shows are going to be sweeeet. And while you're there, pick up one of these posters!

Then on SATURDAY, December 5

Wearing Walt Whitman's Words: A Typographical Exploration
LUCKY Gallery in Red Hook, Brooklyn
Opening Reception 6-9pm

Illustration by Portal Porfavor

So that's where I'll be this week. See you there!

Dear Blog,

2009-12-01T16:01:00.000-05:00

Sorry I've been neglecting you. It won't happen again. Actually, it probably will. I hope you understand. Thanks.

Diana

An Assortment

2009-11-07T23:58:00.005-05:00

Some work past and present...

I am currently collaborating with Michael Bodel on his puppet/dance piece, La Sonnambula. Here's the main puppet head, Amina (without hair). I just attached the hair today, but don't have pictures of that yet, so you'll just have to use your imagination.

Maybe this will help...

This one's some CD art for a new album by the band, Buckdancer's Choice:

And finally, I got my hands on an actual copy of the program I designed for THE PROVENANCE OF BEAUTY/ A SOUTH BRONX TRAVELOGUE, presented by The Foundry Theatre. It was unfortunate that I was unable to see the show, but that is because it was uber successful and completely sold out! Yay!

the route

Heather L. Johnson: Air and Blood

2009-11-01T23:43:00.001-05:00

I kept forgetting to post this, but luckily, GLOWLAB's current exhibition is extended until November 8! The artist featured is Heather L. Johnson, and the work consists of very delicate embroideries and charcoal drawings. It's definitely worth checking out. The name, "Heather Johnson," brings back some sad memories of an old friend who died much too early, but I am glad that there is a talented artist of the same name.

The Post-Halloween Post

2009-11-01T13:21:00.007-05:00

Happy (belated) Halloween!

Okay okay, so this wasn't my costume. It's just the scariest part of my skin care regime.

This year, I had two costumes--a really lazy one, and one that was slightly less lazy. That's what happens when you're poor and busy. First, I went as Rihanna aka Dihanna:

Complete with a bruise and busted lip,

four inch heels, an umbrella-ella (not pictured),

as well as celebrity friends like Woody Allen.

So, after feeling guilty for making fun of domestic abuse (I know, HIGH-larious), I tried making up for it by being a woman empowered:

Riveting!
(Thank you, Lily crew, for giving me these GUNZ)

Hope you had an awesome Halloween and ate lots of candy! Back to the real world now..

P.S. Double-YAY for daylight savings!

TOMORROW

2009-10-28T19:02:00.003-04:00

photo by Karl Giant

Sorry I haven't updated in a while. I've been busy helping out with Taylor Mac's The Lily's Revenge, which opens TOMORROW at 6:30pm at HERE Arts Center. It's been absolute madness! But it looks like it's going to be an amazing show, from what I've seen thus far.

Other than a lot of heavy lifting (my whole body is sore. =C), I've mainly been working on these two things:

Sewing red napkins onto two large curtains to create The Great Longing. Sorry for the crappy quality of the photo. I actually took the photo with my phone, and then my phone decided to lose the ability to send photos, so I ended up taking a picture of the picture on the phone.

Painting up the Dorothy B. Williams Theatre. Here's a video of me looking absolutely ridiculous while painting. Oh, me and my stubby legs.

Another thing I experienced was learning how to operate a light board while having an anxiety attack. That was fun. ANYWAY, you should go see this show, even if it is just to appreciate all the hard work that so many people have and are putting into it. GETCHO TICKETS HERE.

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Actually, you will soon realize that the opening night is sold out for Lily, so if you find yourself needing something to do tomorrow night, you should go check out Stephanie Leibowitz' work at P.P.O.W. The opening reception is from 6-9pm.

Color Therapy

2009-10-20T00:31:00.009-04:00

I spent most of my day today pinning and sewing thousands of red napkins to two rather large theatre-sized curtains, and while most people would find that tedious or annoying, I found it rather therapeutic. Perhaps it was because each one had someone's hope or dream written on it, but mostly it was because I was able to hone in and focus on one task, without being distracted by the usual voices of self-doubt in my head. I was able to go into auto-pilot and work more intuitively rather than rationalizing every detail--something I tend to do in my personal work, which ends up creating more problems rather than solving them. Certainly, I ran into the usual frustrations--accidentally stabbing myself with straight pins, transporting the large amount of fabric (with several straps attached to it) without knocking over everyone's beverages, and of course the usual battle against gravity and polyester. But in the end, it all just made me want to work on large-scale installation work. It wasn't just the obsessive nature of the work to which I was drawn, it was the necessity to walk around a large space in order to lay out all its components; ultimately, there was a satisfaction in putting something together that was much bigger than myself. It is no wonder why I am in love with artists like Lee Bontecou, Yayoi Kusama, and Petah Coyne.

Speaking of large-scale installation work and being in love with Lee Bontecou and Yayoi Kusama, I read an interview in this month's Art in America with Toronto-born artist, Aurora Robson. She builds amazing room-sized sculptures with found plastic bottles. I love that she transforms her nightmares into beautiful art in an environmentally-friendly way. Seriously, you have to see her work.

By the way, if you are wondering why I was pinning red napkins in the first place, it is because I am part of the crew helping load in this epic show coming soon to HERE Arts Center.

Andrew Marathas: ONE PER DAY

2009-10-17T19:53:00.002-04:00

I recently did a post about artists who have done one-a-day projects. Here's another to add to the list! Andrew Marathas just started a blog devoted to his daily work. You should also check out his other work. He's really great.

Not Doomed Yet

2009-10-17T04:30:00.001-04:00

It hasn't been the best week for me, but I think I am slowly finding my groove back. I hope I will go all Stella on next week's ass. (If that makes any sense.) The above piece is a rough study for some artwork I'm making for Deep In Vein's next album. I'm pretty sure I will be making a series of paintings based on this image, whether it's for the album or not.

Inland Territory LIVE

2009-10-15T15:36:00.001-04:00

This is the poster I designed for Vienna Teng and Alex Wong. They are going on tour together beginning tomorrow, and four of the shows will be recorded for a live album! For tour dates, click on their names to go to their myspace pages.

By the way, Vienna Teng was recently featured in American Songwriter. I am humming "City Hall" as I write this. It's been stuck in my head since I read the interview. Not necessarily a bad thing.

Marisa Morea

2009-10-14T01:17:00.003-04:00

She's a cool illustrator from Barcelona. Take a look at her blog!

Daily Dose of Artwork

2009-10-14T01:02:00.007-04:00

I have great respect for artists who are able to do one-a-day projects. Here are some such artists:

Puppet wizard James Godwin recently posted a flickr album of some work from his one-a-day drawings (for two years).

Next we have Miss Martha Rich, whose work was introduced to me by Jess Ruliffson. She does one awesome and often hilarious painting a day; take a gander. Entertaining captions included.

And of course, I can't help but recall Thomas Woodruff's Apple Canon--a collection of 365 paintings of apples, one a day (to keep the doctor away).

Older Work

2009-10-12T00:53:00.006-04:00

I never got around to posting these...

final for ambeR Rubarth's Good Mystery t-shirt

And 2D work from the ATTRACKTION show. They're all ink drawings over coffee-stained doilies:

Statement:

Because Missed Connections are products of chance that often take place in a café setting, I have chosen to explore this subject matter through ink drawings over coffee-stained doilies. The role that memory plays in these fleeting moments is very interesting to me; sometimes every detail of a stranger can be captured in one’s mind, while other times, it is merely a general impression that becomes an embellished memory. I decided to use coffee stains because I appreciate its accidental nature, creating shapes that have potential to become meaningful imagery. The doilies serve as appropriate frames to these random occurrences—decorative borders on cheap material, making something seemingly trivial appear to be more special.

A Full Moon

2009-10-10T02:16:00.003-04:00

I know Mid-Autumn Festival was last weekend, but my brother just told me about these hilarious mooncakes he discovered at a store in Hong Kong called G. O. D. (Goods of Desire). I hope NASA doesn't try to crash anything into these. =P

Also, for any people who know Cantonese fluently (or even just some dirty words), the store's slogan is "Delay No More," which is absolutely hysterical if you say that really fast without any pauses.

Yoko Furusho: FICTIONAL

2009-10-08T19:11:00.004-04:00

The always awe-inspiring Yoko Furusho is having another solo show over at Destination Art Space. Stop by on THURSDAY, OCTOBER 15 at 6pm for some great art, wine, and high fashion.

Details:

Yoko Furusho : FICTIONAL

Destination Art Space
34 Little West 12th St, New York, NY 10014
Opening Reception: Thursday, October 15th, 6pm – 8pm

The Paper Raincoat

2009-10-07T13:21:00.013-04:00

IT'S HERE!!!
The brand new Paper Raincoat album is out now!! Yay!

It comes in a cool little tin with printouts of the artwork. And speaking of artwork, I'll finally share some images of it:

Wow the color looks really different on this monitor.. hope it's not too weird on yours!

The CD Release show at Joe's Pub was INCREDIBLE! They played with the amazing Elizabeth & the Catapult and a good time was had by all. If you missed it, there will be a super secret show on Thursday, October 8. More details via twitter. Or if you're not in NYC, check out the rest of their tour dates.

Oh yeah, and if you haven't already, BUY THE ALBUM!!

edit: sweet shoutout in this blog about the Paper Raincoat show at Joe's Pub. Thanks, Alex!

NYC in Maps

2009-10-07T11:15:00.001-04:00

(photo from vanityfair.com)

There's an exhibition of rare maps of New York at the Stephen A. Schwarzman Building of the New York Public Library that I really want to check out. Looks pretty coolio. More info here.

My Life in a Nutshell

2009-10-06T16:15:00.004-04:00

Beginning October 8, you can go see Hanne Tierney's My Life in a Nutshell at HERE Arts Center. It looks like it's going to be pretty great. Life-size marionettes that are manipulated with 80 strings like an instrument--doesn't get much cooler than that!

Guided by eighty strings, life-sized marionettes enact a witty melodrama of lust, death, and the geometry of human relationships.
Accompanied by live vocals, manual overhead projection, toy piano & double base. Conceived by Obie-award winning Hanne Tierney.

A Dream Music Puppetry Program presentation.

Hanne is also the gallery director at Five Myles in Crown Heights, Brooklyn. Go check it out!

Go Wild

2009-10-04T14:03:00.005-04:00

I am really excited about Where the Wild Things Are coming out, and I found this list of cool things to check out in NYC that relate to Wild Things and Maurice Sendak. This includes original drawings from Mr. Sendak showing at the Morgan Library & Museum and a Spike Jonze retrospective at MoMA. More info here.

If you want to view and possibly purchase an original Sendak, I would suggest going to Animazing Gallery in SoHo.

Sneak Peak

2009-10-04T01:03:00.005-04:00

I am currently working on a poster for Alex Wong and Vienna Teng and happen to like how this one drawing came out. =)

The Experience of Green

2009-10-02T22:41:00.004-04:00

You HAVE to go to DUMBO and wander over to DUMBO Arts Center to look at The Experience of Green by Wade Kavanaugh and Stephen B. Nguyen. I happened to see it while on my postcard distributing adventure and was absolutely mesmerized. It is an installation of what appears to be tree trunks made out of endless red tissue. So beautiful.

The Paper Raincoat CD Release!

2009-09-29T12:19:00.005-04:00

Did you buy your ticket to The Paper Raincoat's CD Release show on TUESDAY, OCTOBER 6 at Joe's Pub yet? You should! And then you can own an original copy of my work if you buy one of their special edition CD's. =)

See The World Through Ana's Eyes

2009-09-29T11:45:00.004-04:00

Ana Benaroya has a new blog featuring solely her paintings!! If you haven't seen her work, be sure to check out her website and other blog as well. She is awesome!

I feel like Ana and Andrew Marathas would make a good collaborative team.

John Ryan Solis

2009-09-29T11:28:00.005-04:00

My good friend, John Ryan Solis, will be exhibiting some new work in this group show this weekend. Go check it out! He is ridiculously talented. I'm sad that I will be out of town and won't be able to make it. =C But you should. DO IT!
Also, he has been featured in a bunch of books! More info here. You will surely want to follow him via facebook or twitter after seeing his work.

Puppetual Motion

2009-09-28T13:24:00.027-04:00

ATTRACKTION is a rumination on the Missed Connections listings on Craigslist that follows three narratives of individuals through the New York City subway system, as they spot and track objects of their desire. Missed Connections is a public forum where people can post a personal ad expressing a desire to reconnect with someone they saw in their daily travels. Featuring the journeys of a wayfaring minstrel, an imaginative but shy woman, and a helpful purple monster, the show takes the audience with our puppets on a rainy day train ride.

PLEASE SWIPE AGAIN
Written and Directed by: Jess Ruliffson
Puppeteer: Jess Ruliffson
featuring Diana Ho as THE TANTALIZING HAND
Stagehand: Suzan Choy

Desperation and hilarity ensue when a hopeful one-man-band street performer bravely navigates his entry into the New York City Subway System.

IN’ERMINGLING
Written and Directed by: Diana Ho
Puppeteers: Diana Ho and Suzan Choy
starring Jess Ruliffson as GIRL IN LOVE
Voice work: Jess Ruliffson
Stagehand: Ridge Carpenter
Sound Design: Marlon Hurt

What begins as an ordinary commute home ultimately unfolds into a fantasy love story between a woman and a perfect stranger.

Love is a Beast
Written and Directed by: Suzan Choy
Puppeteers: Suzan Choy and Diana Ho
featuring voice work by Jake Armstrong as HELPFUL PURPLE MONSTER and Suzan Choy as POTENTIAL LOVE INTERESTS
Sound Design: Suzan Choy

A rainy day leads a lonesome and unconventional character to look for love in all the wrong places.

puppets hanging out after the show

THANK YOU

2009-09-28T00:58:00.010-04:00

ATTRACKTION came and went...and was a great success!!! =D

Thank you so much to everyone who attended the show!!
And thanks to those who tried to come, but were ultimately lost in the labyrinth that is Red Hook, Brooklyn.

Some VERY SPECIAL THANKS TO:

LAURA ARENA, gallery director
JAKE ARMSTRONG, voice talent, puppet music
RIDGE CARPENTER, stagehand
SHIRAJ GANGULY, puppet roadie
MARLON HURT, guru of sound
JAZ HAROLD, mistress of sewing
RICHARD MEGNA, materials supplier and patron of the arts, director of photography
ALEC LEWELLYN, puppet music
MICHAEL BODEL, wizard of puppetry
GEORGE HO, chair chauffeur and deliverer of pizza

Without you, the show would not have been possible!!

And of course, thank you to the other lovely talented ladies of STRINGS ATTACHED: Suzan Choy and Jess Ruliffson. You guys rock! Make sure you check out their other work.

Don't forget that the 2D work for ATTRACKTION will still be up for viewing until SUNDAY, OCTOBER 4. So go check that out!

(pictures and videos coming soon. i hope.)

ATTRACKTION featured in NY Post

2009-09-28T00:56:00.003-04:00

There was a tiny little blurb in the NY Post Sunday Edition! Coolbeans. =)

Right Angles

2009-09-23T10:07:00.007-04:00

Get your FREE DOWNLOAD of The Paper Raincoat's new song, "Right Angles," RIGHT HERE!! And don't forget to pre-order your copy of their special edition album while you're there (featuring artwork by yours truly)!! The music is fantabulous! GO GO GO!

Like

2009-09-21T20:36:00.002-04:00

Why thank you very much, Miss Polec. =)

Well Hung

2009-09-15T07:59:00.008-04:00

This past weekend, Suzan, Jess, and I hung up our work for ATTRACKTION-- now showing until SUNDAY, OCTOBER 4TH at Lucky Gallery. If you happen to be wandering around Red Hook, go check it out! Or join us for the reception on Sunday, September 27 from 3-6pm (puppet show at 3:30).

Now, more photos:
(sorry for the weird water spots from my crappy camera!)

In case you were wondering who's who.

Interlude

2009-09-15T07:48:00.002-04:00

For all my "aZn peepZ"

2009-09-11T08:02:00.007-04:00

IT'S FINALLY HERE!!

Jen Kwok's brand new music video, "Date an Asian!" YAY!
(For more info on the video and to get your very own "Date an Asian" tshirt, click the link above. or here if you're lazy.)

Tweet!

2009-09-02T22:50:00.003-04:00

Check it out, my painting is being used on The Paper Raincoat's Twitter page! Sweet.

STRINGS ATTACHED at Lucky Gallery

2009-09-01T20:11:00.007-04:00

I've been collaborating with Suzan Choy and Jess Ruliffson on a gallery and puppet show two-hit combo. Both are based on Missed Connections and you can begin to check out the 2D work starting September 12 at Lucky Gallery in Red Hook, along with work by Miss Hannah Kasper.

ATTRACKTION is a rumination on the Missed Connections listings on Craigslist that follows three narratives of individuals through the New York City subway system, as they spot and track objects of their desire. Missed Connections is a public forum where people can post a personal ad expressing a desire to reconnect with someone they saw in their daily travels. Featuring the journeys of a wayfaring minstrel, an imaginative but shy woman, and a helpful purple monster, the show takes the audience with our puppets on a rainy day train ride.
Sweet STRINGS ATTACHED bios:
Suzan Choy, Diana Ho, and Jess Ruliffson.

ATTRACKTION and STRINGS ATTACHED artist reception is a Lucky Sunday event at Lucky Gallery on September 27, 3-6pm. The ATTRACKTION puppet show performance begins at 3:30pm. See you there!

Walk Steady, Head Straight

2009-09-01T19:56:00.005-04:00

Some ghetto sketches for Good Mystery. Thank you Photoshop paint bucket.

God, I miss painting.

2009-08-31T10:02:00.004-04:00

I've been working on a surprisingly massive project for The Foundry Theatre. I've mostly been working and reworking the program for their upcoming production, THE PROVENANACE OF BEAUTY/A SOUTH BRONX TRAVELOGUE. And I'm also designing their new lobby displays. Here's a small glimpse of how I spent my weekend:

w4m

2009-08-23T10:08:00.009-04:00

At last! A finished puppet for an upcoming show based on missed connections.

Some images of the process, including a puppet weave worthy of ANTM drama:

Tada!

Oh, and a puppet pieta for funsies featuring Jess Ruliffson's adorable street performer puppet!

GREAT Mystery

2009-08-17T14:22:00.006-04:00

THIS FRIDAY, August 21 at 6:30pm,* ambeR Rubarth's ALBUM RELEASE PARTY is happening at JOE'S PUB! You should totally go! And buy her CD from me because I'll be helping out at the show. =D (I kinda like how that smiley is lopsided)

If you want to buy a special hand-made COLLECTOR'S EDITION of the CD online, you should go here to do that. She is putting out her new album all on her own, so donate some moola to her if you can. There are other cool things you can get in addition to the CD, like your own personal concert or a painted guitar!! It's the FINAL WEEK so go go go!

She soon will be touring with JOSHUA RADIN and GARY JULES (September 9-26). So check out her myspace for more details. Those shows are going to be epic. I'm just sad that she won't be joining them for the second leg of the tour (when they'll be in NYC).

BUT it doesn't matter because in the near future, I might be collaborating with Miss ambeR on some artwork for her tour!!! Which is why I have been elated lately. Yay! The future is looking bright =D

*I know the flyer says 7pm but I got a call from Joe's Pub and the dude said it got changed to 6:30.

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Gosh she is super sweet!

Airplane Safety

2009-08-17T13:58:00.005-04:00

check out that dude with the hat. he rocks.

I don't even remember what I was googling, but I came across this site. Every time I'm on a plane, I always check to see what kind of goofy illustrations will be in the safety card. So I thought it was cool to find a site devoted to the collection of them. However, there aren't too many on there right now. There's also a site called AirToons, which are parodies of airline safety procedures. Definitely have to do a parody safety card one of these days. Maybe silkscreened. Ooooh.

And on a lot less brighter note--
I also stumbled upon this site: Last words.
I don't know why I'm always so intrigued by dark things.

SEEKING: Puppeteers

2009-08-14T23:45:00.002-04:00

HERE resident artist, MICHAEL BODEL, is currently seeking people to help puppeteer in his show, Sonnambula. Previous puppeteering experience is not required; you just have to be creative, be able to stay still, and be commited. And having hands would help. Email michael@here.org for further inquiries.

YELLOW FEVAH!

2009-08-14T23:28:00.007-04:00

Jen Kwok featuring Soce the Elemental Wizard

(who has a new album btw!)

THIS SUNDAY, Jen Kwok's latest comedy music video, Date an Asian, is premiering at the Bowery Poetry Club as part of the SULU SERIES. There will also be live performances, so if you have 5 bucks and a sweet student id (or 8 bucks), COME CHECK IT OUT!! (you may even see a small cameo from yours truly)

(click for details)

Hey, you might end up scoring a date with this guy:

The one and only Fred Chao

Dremel Ninja

2009-08-10T22:28:00.008-04:00

Oh man, I look so cool when I'm working the dremel.
Check out the sawdust shirt!

Anyway, more photos coming soon!
Here's a sneak peak:

2009-08-10T22:25:00.004-04:00

Things I love in the colors I'm currently using!

YAY!

2009-08-03T12:08:00.003-04:00

CONGRATULATIONS,
GLORIA AND DAVIN!

More McEnroe

2009-07-28T03:18:00.003-04:00

Check out this hilarious preview video of the upcoming show, Man or McEnroe:

Tickets and more info HERE.

New and Improved!

2009-07-25T00:19:00.003-04:00

Well, not that new--just improved. I've added tags to all my posts for your viewing convenience (Find under anything labeled "Jump to it").

Also, if you hadn't noticed, I redid my links a while back. Go on a clicking spree!

Man or McEnroe

2009-07-20T00:41:00.007-04:00

Two John Mcenroes insist the ball was on the line

and they weren't hitting on your girlfriend.

But it wasn't.
And they were.

P.S. No, I did not design this one. Copyright Michael Bodel.

ON SET of "Date an Asian"

2009-07-17T16:47:00.010-04:00

Soce the Elemental Wizard and Jen Kwok

Last weekend, I helped out funny girl JEN KWOK on set as a production assistant for her music video shoot. The song is called, "Date an Asian," and it's all about why your next date should be with a fine Asian man! Click the picture above to see more fantastic photos by KEITH HUANG.

Designing HERE

2009-07-14T23:30:00.015-04:00

My very first HERE postcard design! Excitement!

Here it is:

front

back

You should definitely check out LOS GRUMILDOS at the end of the month (JULY 28 - AUGUST 2). It's only 7 bucks! Click the back of the card for more details!

Also, check out the rest of
THE
SUMMER SUBLET SERIES!
I got to design the poster for this as well. =)

Settling Down with NYU kids

2009-07-14T23:20:00.005-04:00

Here's a tshirt design I did for the NYU med freshman class:

It's a caricature of one of their anatomy professors, in case you were wondering who the dude is.

I kind of liked the other design I had too, which referenced the anatomy (save the placeholder font):

PS. Thanks to Ridge Carpenter for lending me one of his many anatomy books!

FREE Monoprint Workshop with Bruce Waldman

2009-07-13T18:01:00.005-04:00

If you are free on FRIDAY, JULY 17, from 1:30 - 3:30PM, be sure to stop by this FREE monoprint workshop with one of the best print artists in NYC, Mr. Bruce Waldman. More information here.

Art, Music, Comedy, and more Art!

2009-07-10T21:55:00.009-04:00

Lots of shows to check out!

TOMORROW NIGHT is the opening of THE DRAWING SHOW featuring works by Jess Ruliffson and Jaz Harold.

Saturday, July 11, 2009 8pm - 4am Kings County Bar
286 Seigel Street
Brooklyn, NY

ALSO TOMORROW NIGHT, my friend MARLON HURT will be playing with his band, DEEP IN VEIN at THE ROCKSTAR BAR

The Rockstar Bar
351 Kent Ave
Brooklyn, NY
8pm

Other upcoming dates to check out this doom band:
July 22nd
Yippie Cafe
9 Bleecker St.
7pm

August 1st
Tompkins Sq. Park
2pm.

August 22nd
The Rockstar Bar
351 Kent Ave.
2pm

So mark your calendars! And while you're at it, check out his blog--NOTHING, SAID WELL. He's one of those multi-talented types. Eww.

======
If art and doom bands aren't your thing, why not try some COMEDY?

On TUESDAY, July 14, check out more SAVAGE ANIMAL comedy at THE CREEK

The Creek
10-93 Jackson Avenue
Long Island City NY
9:30 PM

Here's the line-up:
Leo Allen (Comedy Central Presents, Slovin & Allen)
Rob Cantrell (Last Comic Standing, The Marijuana-logues)
Team Submarine (teamsubmarine.net)
Dustin D'adatto (2007 Rolling Stone Comics to Watch)
Rogelio Perez (Live at The Cake Shop)
Faces for Radio (youtube)

======
AND THERE'S ALWAYS ROOM FOR MORE ART!

Check out LATEST WORKS on THURSDAY, July 16.

Palisades Park Media Center
2nd Street
Palisades Park, NJ
7pm - 9pm

Artists include:
Jung Eun Lee
Stephen Andolino
Kurt McRobert
Cameron Snow
Kim Sielbeck
Kum Weng Mak
Charles Cali
Tory Sica
Darlin Frometa
Gramy M.
SooJin Areum Yun
Cherise Ward

MewithoutYou with Winfrey Odhner

2009-06-22T21:39:00.010-04:00

Check out this video

featuring puppets made by

the incredibly talented

Winfrey Odhner!

Heaps of Awesome

2009-06-16T22:45:00.003-04:00

More people to seduce professionally:

The people over at PUPPET HEAP. Check out all their wonderful work in the gallery. This might just be the best thing to come out of Hoboken, NJ.

Print Artists from New York

2009-06-16T22:35:00.004-04:00

The Monster in the Mirror
monotype by Bruce Waldman

I doubt any of you are anywhere near Jerusalem, but you can still check out some of the awesome work by these New York-based print artists. The show is curated by the one and only Bruce Waldman.

DECOB and TORAPOTE

2009-06-12T13:54:00.007-04:00

TOMORROW, MARCOS CHIN and YOKO FURUSHO will be exhibiting their LIMITED EDITION eco-friendly DECOB bags in DUMBO, Brooklyn. More info here.

Then, on WEDNESDAY, JESS RULIFFSON will be showing some paintings in a new exhibit called TORAPOTE - ride it! - over at Destination art space.

6/17 – 7/26, 2009
Opening Reception: Wednesday, June 17th 6pm – 8pm

Location:
32-36 Little West 12th Street

Featuring artists:
Akira Horikawa, Angela Liscoe, Chris Geogalas, Enrico Thomas, Jess Ruliffson, Matthew Brennan, Michael Alan, Rodney Dickson, Tokio Kuniyoshi

Funny Stuff!

2009-06-07T12:11:00.011-04:00

It's that time again. Another free comedy show at the Creek in LIC with your hosts, Greg Stone and Anthony DeVito. Here's the line-up:

Ari Voukydis (Best Week Ever)
Craig Baldo (Comedy Central, Invite Them Up)
Dave Hill ( King of Miami, The Dave Hill Explosion)
Pete Isip ( Comedy Central 2 hour presentation of the Pete Isip comedy Jam 1983)
Brompton (a super sweet improv group)

They will be filming for a DVD, so come out and laugh your butts off and then you can tell your friends that you are famous because you were featured in a DVD. Also there will be brownies because that's what crazy fans do. Bring brownies. Tell your friends.

ALSO, you should check out JEN KWOK. She's the super funny multi-talented ukulele-playing, parody video-taping, financial guru I work with at HERE arts center. Check her out on MYSPACE, YOUTUBE, and her hilariously titled blog, A CERTAIN JEN NE SAIS KWOK. She will be a guest performer in the Big Girls Club (Happy Dance Dance Princess Show) by the Everywhere Theatre Group, starting tonight at 8pm and continues until July 4.

machines machines machines machines machines machines machines

2009-06-02T07:51:00.009-04:00

Check out these sweet ads I worked on for HERE Arts Center. You can find them in Time Out New York, the Onion, and the Village Voice this week.

You HAVE to check out this show. It begins today and it's going to be awesome and hilarious! More info HERE. And watch the preview video HERE.

And don't forget--A Night with Walt Whitman begins this week on the 3rd! Daniel Krall did a beautiful illustration of it for the New Yorker:

Upcoming Shows!!

2009-05-20T00:18:00.007-04:00

There is a lot of great artwork to see in the next couple of weeks!

FIRST on FRIDAY, MAY 29 at 8pm:

GLITTERATI
Curated by Thomas Woodruff and Aaron Cobbett
HEADQUARTERS STUDIO
385 Broadway between Walker and White Streets

Featuring work by Keith Mayerson, Gary Panter, Winfrey Odhner, and a lot more!

THEN on SATURDAY, MAY 30 at 8pm:

BIRTH of VENUS
The very first show at Skummi & Co. Gallery, curated by Kum Weng Mak
320 Lexington Avenue, #2

Awesome artists include: John Ryan Solis, Victor Kerlow, Yoko Furusho, Kim Sielbeck, just to name a few..

THEN on SATURDAY, JUNE 6 at 6pm:

The 3rd Annual BIRD BEAK Group Show
HEADQUARTERS STUDIO
385 Broadway between Walker and White Streets
ONE NIGHT ONLY!!

I will be showing some work along with a bunch of cool people including Jess Ruliffson, Jaz Harold, John Ryan Solis, Seth Mulvey, Miller Lopez, and Ray Sell. Much more detailed information HERE.

Installation Inspiration

2009-05-17T22:20:00.007-04:00

Jess and I were talking about installation art recently and it got me thinking about some of my favorite installation work that I've witnessed in person. Here's what comes to mind:

Black Cloud by Carlos Amorales

Still by Fred Eerdekens

Village by Rachel Whiteread

Untitled (branches) by Urs Fisher
It's hard to tell what it is if you haven't seen it, but this consists of two hanging branches holding candles that rotate and drip perfect circles of wax.

Moss Wall by Olafur Eliasson
I'm not sure if this qualifies as installation, but I sure liked it a lot. =)

Your strange certainly still kept by Olafur Eliasson
Click the photo to see it in action!

And now, my all time favorite installation piece (and one of the first that I've seen):

Fireflies on the Water by Yayoi Kusama
A mirrored room filled with dangling lights surrounding a platform amidst water. So beautiful.

Shiraj Ganguly

2009-05-14T14:21:00.003-04:00

This just in: SHIRAJ GANGULY has a blog! He's been doing sweet drawings like the one above. Go check it out!

Why So Serious?

2009-05-13T20:26:00.004-04:00

This is my latest painting. You'll be able to see this in a Bird Beak show at the Headquarters studio on June 6. Mark your calendars!

I am going to be making more party-themed paintings and hopefully more pie faces as well. Stay tuned, folks.

Savage Animal at the Creek

2009-05-07T23:59:00.004-04:00

More free comedy and booze this coming Tuesday at 8pm in Long Island City. Details here.

Line up includes:
Leo Allen
Brent Sullivan
Craig Baldo
Dave Hill
Pete Isip
Greg Stone

Last Weekend to Catch Puppet Kafka

2009-05-07T23:48:00.004-04:00

If you have an extra $14 (with student id; $18 w/o) and some free time this weekend, make sure you head over to HERE Arts Center to see Puppet Kafka. It is delightfully witty in both dialogue and production.

I know Jaz Harold.

2009-05-07T23:43:00.003-04:00

Miss Jaz Harold is FAMOUS this week. Check out these features of her work:

Artist a Day

Art Nouveau Magazine: Artist of the Week

Triple S

2009-05-03T20:30:00.003-04:00

I was re-organizing the pictures on my computer the other day, and stumbled upon this old drawing:

Who are these fine gentleman? Why, it's Dan Ahdoot and Jordan Carlos, and together they make a super comedy duo named "Triple S." (Or is it just their show that is called Triple S? I will have to get back to you on that.) It stands for "Stand-up, storytelling, and sketch." I just saw them on Wednesday at UCB, and they were fantastic! They are performing at UCB again on WEDNESDAY, MAY 20 at 8pm if you want to check them out. It only costs $5!

There was also another duo that day called "Gwindleditch," and they are hilarious improvisors. I wish they had a website, but I couldn't find one. I'm sure they will perform again sometime at UCB.

2009-04-29T00:59:00.004-04:00

Buy this album. It's quickly becoming my favorite KD album.

Also, this picture is awesome:

photo by Denny Mui

Check out Denny's other work by clicking his name.

This Week's Art Shows

2009-04-25T12:52:00.007-04:00

Here are some artsy things to see this upcoming week:

As I've mentioned before, TONIGHT is the opening reception of Spring Fever at the Kings County Bar, featuring work from Miss Jess Ruliffson. 8pm. See you there!

Then later in the week, on THURSDAY, April 30, Destination art space is having a group show.
SHOW & SELL: The Art Market
32-36 Little West 12th St
6-8pm

I'll be showing a couple pieces there, along with fellow awesome artists: Jaz Harold, Jess Ruliffson, Eric Hosford, Suzan Choy, Maki Naro and more!

=====

If you aren't in the NYC area and are closer to LANCASTER, PA, check out some new work by JACOB SMILEY on FRIDAY, May 1.

PODUNK
at Heitmann [atelier & gallery]
104 West Chestnut Street
2nd Floor Front
Lancaster, PA 17603
5-9pm

2009-04-24T13:28:00.004-04:00

Okay, Jess, you were right. These are chickens. Mah bad.

JESS RULIFFSON

2009-04-24T01:26:00.005-04:00

Lovely embroidery by the J-Dawg

My good friend, Jess Ruliffson is showing this piece at the
KINGS COUNTY BAR
(286 Seigel St, corner of Bogart and Seigel) in Brooklyn
on Saturday, April 25.
The reception begins at 8pm,
and the work will be up for about a month. Check it out!

Oh, and did you see her awesome brand new spanking WEBSITE?

How to Not Take People Seriously

2009-04-23T17:20:00.006-04:00

Throw a pie at them. =)

This is a good exercise for artists who are too precious with their work.

2009-04-16T23:52:00.003-04:00

Free Comedy and Booze

2009-04-14T01:36:00.006-04:00

Need I say more? Oh wait, actually I do. First of all that cut-off part says, "Free Gifts. Win Alcohol!" And it starts at 8pm at The Creek. The lovely original photocopy I got has it handwritten at the bottom by Greg Stone himself. Does that mean I have his autograph? Sweet.

April Shows

2009-04-09T22:34:00.008-04:00

Hi there! Sorry I haven't updated in a while. Here are some shows to check out if you are in NYC in April:

The Paper Raincoat
TOMORROW, Friday, April 10 at 7pm
(supporting Vienna Teng)
at Le Poisson Rouge

THEN, Thursday, April 16 at 7:30pm
(supporting COLIN HAY!!)
at Canal Room

ALSO, Amber Rubarth is playing on Friday, April 17 at 7pm at DROM. It's going to be a huge show with acrobats and jugglers! Sounds awesome.

I really wish I could make it to one of these shows, but I'm either unavailable or way too poor. Go for me if you can! Thanks. =)

And then...

Kevin Devine
Friday, April 24 at 7pm
at Bowery Ballroom
(I'm excited!)

I know. This painting looks nothing like him. But I like it anyway. I apologize for the terrible terrible scans, by the way. Both paintings look better in person. I'm going to have to learn how to be better with photoshop.

Oh! And before I forget--on April 22, Puppet Kafka begins at HERE arts center. I hope I will be able to afford to see that in May.

But enough about these shows. How are you?

Escape to Soho

2009-03-14T21:33:00.005-04:00

*drawing by Greg Martin

I have a secret admiration for NYC fire escapes, so it's no surprise that I LOVE this site. Check it out! You will love them, too.

Conan Bumper Art

2009-03-05T20:26:00.008-05:00

(click photo)

I've always loved the bumper art--the screenshots that show before and after a commercial--from Late Night with Conan O'Brien. Here's a pretty good flickr album of them from user gikev. Enjoy and I'll try to shut up about Late Night shows...for now.

2009-03-03T21:30:00.007-05:00

It's really easy to get me to like you. Just give me a free shirt and hershey's bar. That's what Jimmy Fallon did.

^enjoying free chocolate may
cause the inability to fit in pants

I must say, I had a lot of fun at the second episode of Late Night with Jimmy Fallon (still weird to say that though). The set was really nice, Seth Herzog is the warm up guy and I love him, The Roots is the house band and they are amazing!! Great guests, too (Tina Fey and Bon Jovi!!).

Oh, and did I mention that my friends and I got to dance with Santigold? That was super fun and nerve-wracking. And then I shook Jimmy's hand. It was quite an experience.

Anyway, I think Jimmy is off to a great start. He still has some nerves, but who wouldn't? He'll be fine after a couple more shows though. I'd definitely go back to see it live.

While I'm still Late Night with Conan-mourning, Jimmy is a decent rebound. =)

2009-03-01T18:47:00.003-05:00

A colored version of Pollenwog

Jimmy

2009-03-01T18:37:00.006-05:00

Jimmy Fallon. He's got some big hair to fill.

But I've decided to give him a chance. Especially since I get to see him live on Tuesday with Tina Fey, Bon Jovi, and Santigold! =) Anyway, Late Night with Jimmy Fallon (man that sounds weird) begins tomorrow night at 12:35am on NBC. Check it out!

'Twas Business Time

2009-02-21T01:55:00.006-05:00

acrylic and adobe photoshop (text)

Sigh. Dyslexia and procrastination-- not a good combination. That's how I missed the FotC poster contest deadline. Who ends a contest at 11:59AM anyway??

Oh well. I have more time to refine it now. And paint in the text.

Folk Yes!

2009-01-18T03:26:00.009-05:00

"Hey! Watch Flight of the Conchords TONIGHT at 10 on HBO!"

I don't know if that link that I posted still works, but if it does, you can also catch it online for free!

And for people who are ARTY, check this out:

(click image)

Riders

2009-01-18T03:15:00.006-05:00

These are some ink drawings I did for a poster my bro wanted for his "Get Out Philly" snowboarding group. This style is definitely based on a poster in my room. Man I wish I looked that cool when I'm riding.

I kind of like how my test sheet looked:

Joshua Radin in NYC

2009-01-18T03:01:00.005-05:00

The talented and inexplicably humble Joshua Radin will be performing in NYC soon! First, you can catch him at the Virgin Megastore in Union Square on Monday, January 19, at 7pm. I am going to try my best to make it. Let's hope the Colbert Report taping doesn't run until 7. Then, on Friday, January 23, at 6pm, you can watch him perform at Webster Hall with Dar Williams. I really wish I could make this, but I'll be on the slopes. So if you can make it, DO IT FOR ME! Thank you, man. =)

Bored?

2009-01-15T14:16:00.005-05:00

Amber Rubarth at the Abron Arts Theater on Saturday, January 17. Tickets $10

The FIRST episode of Flight of the Conchords season two for free!

Pollenwog

2009-01-15T14:00:00.005-05:00

Pros and Cons

2009-01-15T13:13:00.005-05:00

Last night, I went to see Don Cristobal, Billy-Club Man and Bordertowns at the HERE arts center.

Don Cristobal, pro:
-LOVED the percussionist and piano player who did the sound effects for the show. I thought it was great to be able to see what they were doing (instead of hiding them backstage). And they were the best part of the show.
-The main punch puppet was well-made. It (he?) moved fluidly and appropriately for his character. All of the puppets had great expressions too.
-Inclusion of the "poet" character. It was both a funny and sweet touch.
-Loved the clown/jester characters' costumes. I also appreciated the visual motif of pleats.

con:
-The set was kind of awful. It looked like it was painted for a school play.
-This one isn't a big deal or anything, but lately I've noticed that they show the puppeteer's faces (in a lot of these productions in general). I think it distracts from the puppetry sometimes when you have three other faces lurking behind the puppet. Not that big of a deal, but I'm just saying,
-This has nothing to do with the play itself, but I also noticed that New York puppet show-going audiences are TIMID. One can almost feel everyone else merely smiling appreciatively instead of laughing out loud. It's kind of unfortunate since the performers are depending on the audiences of these mini festivals to find out how to improve their shows.

Bordertowns was a bit confusing to me, because I thought the concept was great, the actors were excellent, and it was visually compelling, yet I was very bored by the middle of the show. It started out really well--the lighting was great, I loved how they used the scrim. I think it would be better off if they decided to either sing everything, or lipsynch everything. It was extremely distracting that they did both, and since this show is about music recordings, they're probably better off just doing lipsynching. And it seems to me that this is one of those shows that needs to be performed FLAWLESSLY in order to have its full impact. So their choreography needs to be cleaner and more refined.

I know these shows are in progress, so I shouldn't be too critical, but that's also the point of these festivals! Anyway, they added another show TONIGHT, so check it out if you have $15. I'm heading back to HERE tonight to see Lucid Possession. I'm really excited!! Also, I found out that Sonnambula and Ego are showing together. Two shows for $15! GO GO GO! January 16-18. I'll be there on the 18th.

After seeing all these shows, I am going to seriously consider applying to some of the residencies (especially at HERE). I love art, performance, and puppets. It's kind of perfect.

2009-01-14T11:37:00.006-05:00

Beginning January 21, 2009, MoMA will have an exhibition featuring the performance art of Tehching Hsieh. I'm really looking forward to it and am very interested to see both the artistic and psychological implications of his performance. Click the image for more info.

ALSO, TOMORROW, see the work of CANNADAY CHAPMAN at The Showroom. 7pm-11pm