Friday, July 29, 2011

You should check out our Saturday Night Facebook Posts

They are insane. Like dumb stupid shit.

But for real-- I got all the pictures out of Art Magazines.

Monkey's uncle they were bad. Bad art-- bad bad!

Moo boo poo!

Go see!






Juice Fasting for Chronic Fatigue Day 6

I have made it to day six.  I am pretty proud of myself.  I can tell you one thing.  I want food.  I want to eat a sandwich, or pizza, tacos, anything.  :/

But alas, I will not.  It's hard when you want to eat something.  I have not had this problem until now.  I have to regroup my thoughts and get back in alignment.  I have not fallen off the plan, and I do not intend to do it now.

They say real Detox of bad things happens from day 8 - 15.  I want to keep going and see.


Scale, not really moving, which is fine.  My metabolism has probably moved to a snails pace.


Here is a recipe for a juice I made that is really delicious.
1/2 beet
1/2 a bunch celery
2 lemon
15 grapes
5 carrots
...1 green onion
1/2 hatch green pepper
1 pear
1 sweet potato
1 handful of cilantro and 4 tomatoes
The usual info I include!
So if you've been keeping up, I've started juicing for health reasons. I have had a fatigue problem for a long time, but it's gotten worse and now I can't even exercise. This is the worst for me, as I love to be active. I watched the movie Fat, Sick, & Nearly Dead and was immediately motivated to start juicing.

My plan right now is to do this for 7 days. I've been to the doctor and most everything shows up fine, that's why I'm taking this approach. You should always consult a doctor if you plan on doing any plan like this. I have a physician on duty ;).


If you are interested in process from day one you can click here: http://arthash.blogspot.com/search/label/Chronic%20Fatigue

And the Beat Goes ON

Ladi Dadi Di

Ladi Dadi Dow

Ok-- I am passing time. Doing anything but what I should be doing. I have noticed that since I work a lot from the computer that I am getting Pancake Ass. WTF. This is bad Bad. Maybe I should just get the fuck up! It is also so mutha Fuckin Hot here that I am having a problem doing any outdoor activity. Don't mind me, I'm just going to bitch today.

Ok enough of that BS. Turn that frown upside down!

I will dream of a beach. A nice beach, where my toes are nestled slightly in the sand. I have a hot waiter (hey this is my dream ok) and he is bringing me a perfect ceviche. I will lay here all day and read a goood book. I'm on one of those soft plush beach beds, you know the ones with the white flowing drapes-- ya, that one. Anyway, I am on a soft plush beach bed, the sun is shining, but the breeze is cool and delightful. Its the type of weather you could spend all day laying in. There is a quiet lapping of water from the waves rolling in, and a faint gull cry in the distance. Sail boats are sailing, people are smiling and lazing sparsely around. I have nothing to do but lay and enjoy!

Happy Friday!

S



By Permit Only Art Exhibit San Antonio Texas

McKinney Avenue Contemporary Meltdown Membership Art Show Dallas Texas

 The MAC announces the annual Membership Exhibition, "Meltdown". The MAC Board of Directors requests all members to submit works of art in all media from visual to performance art and literary reading relating to the theme Meltdown. This exhibition, in all three gallery spaces, will open Saturday, August 6th from 5:30pm to 7:30pm with a "Hot as Hell" themed party. The exhibition will run through September 3rd. 


Join us in celebrating our members by dressing red hot at our annual Membership Exhibition party HOT AS HELL. Local artist and musician Jordan Edwards will be mixing hot as hell beats. Cool off with Talenti Gelato and our infamous MAC punch spiked with CreVasse Vodka courtesy of Centennial Fine Wines and Spirits. Fill up on eats and treats from Lee Harvey's, Mr. Goodcents, Breadwinners Café and Bakery and Tiffs Treats. Don't miss out Saturday, August 6, 5:30 - 7:30! You know you want to be caught in The MAC circles of Hell!

A very special thank you to our exhibition sponsors:


Lee Harvey's 
Talenti Gelato
Napkin Art Studios
Mr. Goodcents
Bread Winners Cafe and Bakery
Tiff's Treats
Centennial Fine Wine and Spirits


About the MAC

Established in 1994, The (The MAC) is a nonprofit organization that stands as a Dallas advocate for creative freedom offering the opportunity for experimentation and presentation of art in all disciplines. It supports the emerging and established artist roll in society providing a forum for critical dialogue with their audiences. This relationship is cultivated through education and innovative programming. The MAC is a member of Dallas Art Dealers Association and The Uptown Association.

Call 214-953-1212 for information or visit www.the-mac.org. The MAC is open Wednesday - Saturday 11 a.m. - 9:00 p.m.  For more information, visit


Interviews and images related to this exhibition are available upon request. 

Contact(s):LauraLee Brott
Membership Coordinator 
McKinney Avenue Contemporary
3120 McKinney Ave. 
Dallas, TX 75204
+1.214.953.1212

New Artist Open Call Oxide Gallery Denton TExas

We are looking for new artists working in all mediums and genres to invite to show
with us in our Main Shows.  Our Main Shows are up for 4 month and consist of an eclectic
mix of artwork created by our invited artists.  

This is not for beginners or occasional hobbyist,
this is for professional and aspiring artists
who are 18 yrs old or older
.  

We are looking for artists who already have a body of work to select from, are constantly
expanding their portfolio
, and are looking for a gallery to show with on a regular basis.  
If you are already one of our invited Main Show Artists, you do not need to attend this
event unless you are working in a totally new medium or style
and wish to have it considered by the jury
.   

If you wish to be considered for invitation to show in our Main Show please bring in 3 pieces of your artwork that you feel best represent you and your personal style.  At the Artist Open Calls we need to see your actual artwork, not your portfolios or copies.  Photography is not required to be framed for this Open Call, but must be properly printed using good photo paper.  We do not show photography printed on canvas so please bring
only photography printed on good photography paper.

You will also need to provide us with the EXACT price you will be asking for those pieces of
artwork if they are chosen for consignment in the gallery.  You must think about and set
your asking price prior to going before the jury.  If you do not know what you expect t
o ask for your artwork then we can not properly evaluate your work.  Your sale price is part of the jury's decision making process and is expected not to be increased when it comes time to fill out formal contracts without discussing possible changes with us first.
Remember, the gallery receives 40% commission of the sale price you list, so take that into
account when pricing your artwork.

When you arrive we will
provide you with paperwork to fill out with your personal
contact
information and information about the 3 pieces of artwork you are showing us.
Y
our artwork will be reviewed by the guest jury and you will be asked questions about your artwork, then we will let you take your artwork back with you.  This process usually takes about 10 minutes per person.  This entire process can run long so please be prepared to be patient.  We will see artists on a first come basis only.  Please be professional and do not ask for special treatment,
everyone in attendance is equally important to us.


We will inform artists of the jury's recommendations with in a week of the Open Call.  As we prepare to see artwork for next upcoming Main Show we will contact you and appointments 

will be scheduled to meet one on one with the artists the jury has invited to show in our
gallery.  At that time artists will need to bring back in the pieces shown to the gallery during
this Artist Open Call as well as any other the artwork they wish to have considered for
consignment.  We will make our final selections for the upcoming show at that time.

Thursday, July 28, 2011

Herb Baked Chicken With a Garlic Tomato Cream Sauce

For me, nothing says comfort food like a baked chicken.  When I come home from a being away my mother always asks me what I want her to cook.  Yes, I still go to my mothers house all the time.  So I say, baked chicken-- it's my favorite.  I purchased an Enameled dutch oven a while back, and I decided I needed to make baked chicken myself.  To my surprise it was pretty darn easy.  This is a recipe that I concocted and made last night.  It is Super.  And I mean that.  You could probably kill someone with it-- in a good way of course!

1 2 or 3 lb Whole Roasting Chicken ( I buy organic- try to get hormone free if not organic)
2 Tablespoons of butter

I used Fresh Herbs-- buy an herb garden and keep it in your kitchen.  If not use dried.
1 teaspoon of oregano
1/2 a teaspoon of chopped rosemarry
1/2 teaspoon of sage
1 teaspoon of garlic powder
Cracked black pepper
1/2 teaspoon of sea salt
1/8 teaspoon of red pepper

1.5 cups of Chicken stock (try and use a good one if you can-- I get kitchen basics)
1/2 an onion sliced
1/4 a pack of cherry tomatoes
1/2 teaspoon of fresh garlic

Preheat the oven to 350

Wash your chicken and set aside.  Next mix all your herbs into your butter.  Butter should be room temperature.  Once you have mixed it, put it under the skin of the chicken.  It is easy to do on the breasts because you can pull the skin away from the chicken and stuff the mixture underneath.  On the legs, I cut little holes and shove it in.  You don't need a ton, just little bits around everywhere.  Once you have put the butter mixture in, you can smooth it out from the top to spread it somewhat evenly. Add the chicken broth, onion, tomato, garlic and bake in the oven covered for 1.5 hours or until juices run clear.  You can take the lid off for the last 30 minutes to get a nice brown on top.

Once the chicken has cooked, take it out and put it on the side to rest.  All meat needs to rest a minimum of 5 minutes before you cut it anyway to let the juices re uptake.  Place the dutch oven on the stove and mix blend the liquid with a hand held blender. Be careful not to let the liquid splash you, as it will be hot.  You can also put it in a blender if that is easier for you.  Once the liquid has blended let reduce down about half.  Finish off with 1.4 cup of heavy cream.  If you don't have that you can substitute sour cream or Mexican crema. You can taste the sauce and see if it needs any salt or pepper.  Then you are ready to serve.

Slice your baked chicken and pour on the sauce.  Serve with any side vegetable.  Also goes well with grits, mashed potatoes, wild rice.

Enjoy!
S



Artist Interview: Karmym


Matsyendrasana - 2010


What is your name: My real name is Markus Meier but as artist I use the name Karmym. My real name is still very common in Switzerland but in about 50 years I'm sure there will be not so much people with this name left :-) Karmym was the name of my first email account.

Do you have a formal art education or are you a self taught artist: I'm a self taught artist over the last 10 years. I've learned a lot from orther artists I met in facebook and myspace but the most important teacher is the expierience of drawing, painting and experimenting with the colors I use.

What is the style of your pieces: All my paintings are very colorful and I try to combine figurative and spiritual elements in the paintings. I often use elements of sacred geometry in the background. This are basic geometric blueprints we can find in nature, on our bodies and was often used as symbols in earlier cultures.

What is the medium in which you work: acrylic paintings on caleria acrylic pad sheet 16×12 inch.

What started you on your path as an artist: It was the time of big changes in my live. I became a father and I wanted to change my lifestyle. Until then I went out nearly every night. I was a enthusiastic salsa dancer :-) But then I wanted to be with my family. First I only wanted to decorate the childrens room but then I got greater ambitions to fullfil my childhood dream to become an artist. Next to do art I rekindled my yoga and meditation practise and all this together is a good and inseparable combination.

What is one of the most important things that art has brought to your life: It is really difficult to break this down to only one thing. Through art I found much love and patience in creating images that come from inside
out. I want to use my art doing to explore myself and to study the meaning of life in general.

What is your favorite genre of art besides the one you work in: That's defently music. I even like music more than colors and if I had more time I would love to start an electronic music project :-)

Do you have art showings, and if so what are they typically like: No, I show my paintings, digitally mastered images and videos only in the net. Of course I'm happy to show my painting to friends or neighbors that visit us but there isn't much interest in my art locally :-) In the USA is lots of interest the art I do. Normally, lots of trends come form the USA to Europe 10 years later. So I will be ready to do an art show then.

Do you have a certain set of clothes you make art in:
No :-) My paintings aren't so big so I don't run into danger to got color spots on my clothes. I just wear convenience clothes but I only convenience clothes anyway :-)

What has been the most frustrating part of being an artist? With every painting I have a period I feel that the result isn't as good as I hoped in the euphoric start. (Sonia: Me too!)  After all, most of the times I'm satisfied at the end but still the result isn't exactly the image I hoped to do in the beginning. Since one year I'm experimenting with digitally remastering of my paintings and try to come closer to the image I first planed to do.

What is your favorite sandwich of all time: My favorite sandwiches are the ones my wife makes me everydays to take to work. I love fresh crunchy bread, cheese, salat and some selfmade salat souce in it.

Has this year brought about any changes in your work, and if so what are they: The year began not so good. I wanted to bring more quality in to my paintings from the beginning of this year. The last paintings of last year I didn't done much experimenting but done some good paintings in my valid painting style. But the first three paintings this year were good but not so special than I hoped. Then suddently I got a invitation to be part of the visionary artist collective (http://visionaryartgallery.weebly.com/karmym.html) and this was the initiation point I could bring more scenery, more phantasie in the last paintings. I think this is the way to go further.

Who is your favorite artist alive or dead: Oh, it's very difficult to decide one artist. There are so many talented
wonderful artists. I choose Alex Grey because I think he is an important initiator of spiritual and psychedelic art.

What is the most moving piece of artwork that you have seen in person:
The most moving art I only saw virtually in the internet and in the last years I didn't visit museums or art shows but I remember that I was very
impressed when saw 'Femme à tête de roses' from Salvador Dalí in 'Kunsthaus Zurich' :-)

Do you have any animals, and what do they think of your work: We had two rats, unfortunately one of them just died some weeks ago. rats are very intelligent and social animals. they can't speak but they communicate with their eyes. unfortunately they have a weak visual sense but with their eyes they told me that they like the colorful spots on the wall. Gipsy, the rat, want's to use this possibility to tell everyone that animals has a soul too, they experience much more feelings than humans suppose them to.

Do you have any upcoming exhibitions you would like to share with us:
I exhibit my art works every day, day and night on my facebook page: http://www.facebook.com/karmymart

Artist Interview: Andres Hurtado



What is your name: Andres Hurtado

Do you have a formal art education or are you a self taught artist:  I started painting and drawing very young, I think 4 or 5 and never stoped. I went to art school and got my degree in Industrial Design, wich made a big impact on my style.

What is the style of your pieces: I think my style is a combination of surrealism with bio-organic-mechanical love painting landscapes, what I paint is a reflection of what i see inside myself, sometimes is dark sometimes is light, I get my inspiration from feelings and sensations.

What is the medium in which you work:  Mostly I use acrylics and oil on canvas or canvas boards, and skin!!!

What started you on your path as an artist: I think that I found it easy to show feelings or thoughts drawing on a piece of paper or canvas.

What is one of the most important things that art has brought to your life: Peace of mind. Art gave me the possibility to live and support my family doing something that I love and feel.

What is your favorite genre of art besides the one you work in: Music, i play bass and Tattooing!!!

Do you have art showings, and if so what are they typically like: I have participated in some group art exhibits, not too many, but I love to see people's reactions and feedback.

Do you have a certain set of clothes you make art in: Just my camouflage pants!!

 What has been the most frustrating part of being an artist:  Just people not taking what I do seriously or not respecting my lifestyle, as simple as that, some people think that art is a hobby and they treat artist and art like that. Shame on them. But other than that life is beautiful.

What is your favorite sandwich of all time: "Choripan", it's an Argentinian sausage on french bread!!

Has this year brought about any changes in your work, and if so what are they: 2011 is the year that I realize that painting completes me, i can't live without it. I think it might be a huge turning point in my life.

Who is your favorite artist alive or dead: Salvador Dali 


Do you have any animals, and what do they think of your work: I Have two Yorkies that I don't think they like my work.

Do you have any upcoming exhibitions you would like to share with us: Nothing yet but I'm looking forward to show my artwork, and share with other artist.


Juicing for Chronic Fatigue Day 5

FOR MY ART FOLLOWERS:  I will be posting more art info soon.  Right now I am documenting this fast, but will resume calls and interviews soon, I promise!

Fuck, I'm tired today. It might be because I swam yesterday instead of keeping my happy ass inside the house. Oh well. Yesterday I felt fine. I've decided I can not juice kale, it makes me feel to weird. I guess I'll just make kale chips for E out of the leftovers.

I have somehow inspired my mom and brother to do this too. So that makes four of us. My mom, E, me and my brother.

Results so far:

My brother has no acid reflux, medicine free 3 days, he has been on medication for 2 years

My mom had a GI bleed from medication, prednisone, she is medicine free, no pain whatsoever

E has lost 10 lbs

I have no tiny breakouts on my chin every morning. My skin is soft. And besides the tiredness I do feel better.

Scale is the same today, which is fine.












Morning juice of the day, Pear Cucumber and More.

4 celery
10 strawberries
1 pear
1 cucumber
1 orange
1 sweet potato












The usual info I include!

So if you've been keeping up, I've started juicing for health reasons. I have had a fatigue problem for a long time, but it's gotten worse and now I can't even exercise. This is the worst for me, as I love to be active. I watched the movie Fat, Sick, & Nearly Dead and was immediately motivated to start juicing.

My plan right now is to do this for 7 days. I've been to the doctor and most everything shows up fine, that's why I'm taking this approach. You should always consult a doctor if you plan on doing any plan like this. I have a physician on duty ;).


If you are interested in process from day one you can click here: http://arthash.blogspot.com/search/label/Chronic%20Fatigue












Wednesday, July 27, 2011

Chronic Fatigue Juice Fasting Day Four

FOR MY ART FOLLOWERS:  I will be posting more art info soon.  Right now I am documenting this fast, but will resume calls and interviews soon, I promise!
Well I feel ok today. I had a bump in energy yesterday, but after my dinner drink I was really dizzy again. I'm starting to wonder if juicing kale is giving me the spins. I'm going to leave it out today and see. I've been putting half a beet with the rest of the veggies and it works quite well. Making it to day four was hard, but like I said, if I can feel fine I could go on easily. I have been ok on wanting food until my friends came over and started talking about the burger king chicken sandwich. Years ago that used to be my hangover fix. Something about that damn sandwich makes me want to eat it, like now.

Some good things:

My skin is clear, no more tiny spots in the morning

I'm getting used to the juices

I've only made one bad batch

Sneaky tip, rejuice pulp!


E made juice last night and decided it was a lot more difficult than he thought. Really? It's always easy when it shows up, ruby red, green or bright orange in a nice glass for you-- right...

I have no idea what he put in it except cantaloup. It was good though!








Scale shot. Back to normal. If your just catching this, I'm juicing for health, but always throw in a scale pic.







The usual info I include!

So if you've been keeping up, I've started juicing for health reasons. I have had a fatigue problem for a long time, but it's gotten worse and now I can't even exercise. This is the worst for me, as I love to be active. I watched the movie Fat, Sick, & Nearly Dead and was immediately motivated to start juicing.

My plan right now is to do this for 7 days. I've been to the doctor and most everything shows up fine, that's why I'm taking this approach. You should always consult a doctor if you plan on doing any plan like this. I have a physician on duty ;).


If you are interested in process from day one you can click here http://arthash.blogspot.com/search/label/Chronic%20Fatigue

Remy: Raise The Debt Ceiling Rap

Show: Insignificance Orchard Windows Gallery Art Opening New York

Kenneth Ian
2011

Orchard Windows Gallery
37 Orchard St.
New York, NY 10002
 
Artist Reception:
August 13 2011 4pm - 8pm
free Refreshments
       
Kenneth has been invited back to the orchard windows gallery after a very good show last Febuerey. On display will be his latest series of paintings intitled "Insignificance".
Insignificance is a new series of paintings I made to display the emotions of being a small part in the world. How sometimes we all feel small and insignificant. How our emotions can get the better of us and lead us to jealousy, anger, insincerity and other negative emotions. I am also trying to show how much difference a small explosion of paint on a canvas can change the whole painting and the correlation between that and a person. The lack of paint on a single colored background is my minimalistic approach to explain how much open space surrounds us and to pose the question, is any splash of paint or any person insignificant to the surrounding environment?
 
Statement:
 
Kenneth Ian Husbands works have been displayed throughout the USA. Kenneth's artwork has appeared in various online/print publications. Kennethbelongs to national art groups such as The Sheboygan Visual Artists and the Plymouth arts center as well as New York groups Such as the South bay arts association the Brookhaven Arts and humanities council and The new millennium modern art group. Kenneth had studied art in NY at a local college before his financial situation made him drop out and become a long shore commercial fisherman. After not painting for 6 years he found the art calling him back. Putting all of his energy back into art he found the concept of letting go of controlling his art  to be appealing, and started experimenting in a aesthetic way to make that happen. The paintings on display are all examples of his "letting go of control" as well as different emotions he puts onto the canvas

Oliver Francis Gallery Dallas Art Opening Exhibition

July 30 - August 13

Reception July 30 six to nine pm

Alan Siggers uses his dual roles as artist and home builder to manage and manipulate discarded building materials in his installation "The Object of My Construction" from plan to process to presentation.

 Click on Photo to Enlarge

Artist Interview: Tom Block

 
 
 
What is your name:   Tom Block

Do you have a formal art education or are you a self taught artist: I have a college degree in English, and only began painting when I was 26.  I fell into it -- I had been doing features writing for newspapers and magazines, and illustrating my articles with photographs.  I loved the visual aspects of the work, so I applied to the School of the Museum of Fine Arts in Boston to study art photography.  They accepted me, contingent on my taking a "summer foundation course" in visual arts (painting, drawing, printmaking etc.), as I had no art background.  During that six week course, I realized that I was, in my heart, a painter.  So when I went to school that fall, I studied only drawing -- as I had no background in art -- and then in my second year I began to paint.  I dropped out after two years to pursue my art on my own.

What is the style of your pieces: I paint in a wide range of styles, both figurative and abstract, though in a general sense, they could all be collected under the heading of "Expressionistic."  All of my work is driven by philosophical, mystical and activist concerns, generally concentrating on one specific idea (i.e., an exploration of an individual mystic such as Meister Eckhart, Baal Shem Tov, or of a theme such as portraits of human rights defenders), and the visual response that emerges from the initial drawings responds to the impetus.  To see how the ideas dovetail with the series of works, you can visit my website and look through the various collections.

What is the medium in which you work:  Again, this depends on the philosophical impetus.  The one medium that unites all of my work is drawing, and I have preliminary, blind contour ink drawings from all of my series.  For finished paintings, I have worked with oil on wood, oil on canvas, acrylic and collage on canvas, acrylic and collage on wood and all kinds of media on paper (including olives and  coffee).

What started you on your path as an artist: Coincidence?  Fate?  As I noted above, I "fell into it" while pursuing studies in art photography, but once I discovered visual art, I was a goner.  From the age of 26 until now, I have produced in the neighborhood of  10,000 drawings and 500 paintings.  

What is one of the most important things that art has brought to your life: Fascinating question.  Hmmmm -- in ways, it has brought me tremendous struggle, both positive and negative.  On the plus side, there is no more energizing experience that I have had in my life than the creative search.  Being that there is no "correct" answer to any individual work of art, it is a beautiful metaphor for life itself.  I have loved transforming philosophical ideas and text into the ineffable meaning of visual art.  Additionally, I have done thousands of blind contour drawings, capturing simple moments as I go through my daily life.  Drawings in bars and restaurants, waiting in airports, at meals with my family -- discovering the magic of the mundane.  These little moments, in which I discover the interrelatedness of all things (as the line moves from a chair to a shoulder to a plant), as well as dissolving my consciousness, if for but a moment, in the act of seeing, devoid of ego (as I am not looking at the paper and can take no active interest in the final product) has been the greatest joy that art has afforded me. On the down side, being an artist in this culture -- and especially an artist whose visual and philosophic aesthetic is rooted in the 19th century -- has been very, very tough both existentially (i.e. "if no one values what you do, perhaps it has no value") and financially.  This is not a gift that I relish.  

What is your favorite genre of art besides the one you work in:  I love dance.  I consider my drawings (and at their best, my paintings) frozen dances, and I find the manner in which contemporary dance brings together the aesthetic of drawing with movement and music thrilling. 

Do you have art showings, and if so what are they typically like: I have had many, many art exhibits (more than 100, of which at least half are one-person shows).  Honestly, though, they often leave me a bit deflated, as I almost never find an audience that is genuinely interested in the work.  They are there for other reasons, from the food to be in the "scene."  The most satisfying exhibits that I have had are at universities, as the audience there is still interested in ideas and artistic technique.  

Do you have a certain set of clothes you make art in: Comfortable, paint spattered and with slippers.  Always with slippers.

What has been the most frustrating part of being an artist?  No question, the lack of respect for the arts in the United States.  There is a wonderful quote by Elmer Bischoff, the great Bay Area Figurative Artist, upon traveling to Europe for the first time: "For the first time in my life, I was an Artist, instead of just a bastard."  To be an artist in America is to be met with responses such as: "But seriously, what's your day job?" or "What do you do for money?"  Never, "What is your art about?"  Having begun my career in Europe (I lived in Spain for three years, and exhibited in Spain, Portugal and Italy), where an "artist" was not only respectable, but admirable, it is always painful to be so marginalized and unappreciated in the culture of my current residence. 

What is your favorite sandwich of all time:  Excellent question!  Though not much of a fan of sandwiches, my daughters recently introduced me to the "Nutella Tartine," which has to take the day.

Has this year brought about any changes in your work, and if so what are they:  Yes.  I had taken a hiatus from painting after the acceptance for publication of my first book ("Shalom/Salaam: A Story of a Mystical Fraternity"  https://www.fonsvitae.com/OnlineStore/tabid/58/pid/361/0784-ShalomSalaam-A-Story-of-a-Mystical-Fraternity.aspx).  After nearly three years off from painting, however, I have returned with a new appreciation and love for the medium, and acceptance (to some extent) of the limits that this culture offers for the 19th century arts.  I am trying to exhibit my work internationally again, however, as I think that there would be more appreciation for the type of work that I do in Europe.

Who is your favorite artist alive or dead: Van Gogh.  Hands down.

What is the most moving piece of artwork that you have seen in person:  Well, the most moving experience that I ever had was in the Musee d'Orsay (Paris), as I made my way chronologically through the 18th century works.  Room after room held brown and green paintings, landscapes, figurative work etc., when all of a sudden I stepped into a room that held only Van Gogh's and the whole atmosphere absolutely exploded with color and energy.  It really gave a sense of how shocking his work was at the time!

Do you have any animals, and what do they think of your work:  We have a snail, but I don't think that it concerns itself much with art.

Do you have any upcoming exhibitions you would like to share with us:  Currently, I am just gearing my career back up, after this hiatus.  But I was included in the recently published "100 Mid Atlantic Artists" (http://www.schifferbooks.com/newschi/book_template.php?isbn=9780764337345) and I have work with the Phyllis Weston Gallery in Cincinnati and Boxheart Gallery in Pittsburgh.  Hopefully, more shows on the horizon!

www.tomblock.com                                

thomasablock@gmail.com           

Tuesday, July 26, 2011

Juicing for Chronic Fatigue Day Mid Three Update

FOR MY ART FOLLOWERS:  I will be posting more art info soon.  Right now I am documenting this fast, but will resume calls and interviews soon, I promise!

Update Mid Day Three!

Holy Cow Pie Plates and Thistles!  I am having a mid afternoon high.  I am on the latter part of day three on my juice fast and I am starting to feel good, like an overall relaxation.  This on the heels of feeling like dog shit last night.  I didn't know if I could keep on going. Juice Detoxing is not for the faint of heart. I had a really dizzy weird episode during a movie we went to last night and by the time I went to bed I felt worse. I have been waiting and waiting for the so called "burst" of energy.  By golly, I think I have gotten it!  If I can keep feeling like this, I will easily make my 7 day mark and might go on to 15 day.  I read a really interesting article about the stages your body goes through during detox. Here it is if anyone is interested. http://www.juicefasting.org/detox.htm

Since I am juicing for health reasons I may go on past 7 days to achieve full benefits. 

Some reflections about myself and the process.  

Juice fasting is not easy
Juice fasting takes prep work and planning
My cooking ability helps make pretty good juice
Always have an emergency snack when you go out of the house while juice fasting. (Obviously you don't want to eat it, but it will beat anything you can find out in a pinch)
I don't like raw juiced spinach that much
Kale is winner
I can sustain uncomfortable situations and make it through
I have will power, and I am using it.

 Another thing I learned is to watch out when juicing Beets.  They are super powerful detoxifiers and they can make you sick.  Here is an article on Beet juicing. http://www.juicingbook.com/vegetables/beet

 Here is an afternoon juice recipe for you.  This was delicious and just the pick me up I needed!

Afternoon Carrot Love




1lemon
1orange
4 carrots
2 handfuls of cilantro
1cucumber
1 apple
5 celery stalks



The usual info I include! 
So if you've been keeping up, I've started juicing for health reasons. I have had a fatigue problem for a long time, but it's gotten worse and now I can't even exercise. This is the worst for me, as I love to be active. I watched the movie Fat, Sick, & Nearly Dead and was immediately motivated to start juicing.

My plan right now is to do this for 7 days. I've been to the doctor and most everything shows up fine, that's why I'm taking this approach. You should always consult a doctor if you plan on doing any plan like this. I have a physician on duty ;).


If you are interested in process from day one you can click here:   http://arthash.blogspot.com/search/label/Chronic%20Fatigure

Juicing for Chronic Fatigue Day Three

So if you've been keeping up, I've started juicing for health reasons. I have had a fatigue problem for a long time, but it's gotten worse and now I can't even exercise. This is the worst for me, as I love to be active. I watched the movie Fat, Sick, & Nearly Dead and was immediately motivated to start juicing.

My plan right now is to do this for 7 days. I've been to the doctor and most everything shows up fine, that's why I'm taking this approach. You should always consult a doctor if you plan on doing any plan like this. I have a physician on duty ;).

Today is day Three, I honestly don't know how I feel yet. Yesterday was ok until I went to a movie, I started to feel weird. I had to run out, go into a bar (in workout gear) and buy an orange. I need to figure out a way to make these juices more caloric.

Here is my scale shot, almost back to pre-holiday.

A side note-- I'm doing this for health, not weight loss, but I want to document that too.












I have dark patches on my shins that popped up when I started getting sick "fatigued". I went to the derm and he gave me a steroid cream, it didn't do much. I'm hoping this will go away too.












I made the juice for today last night because E is doing this too and he had to work early. The only problem is I put a beet in it and now I'm shit scared to drink it. Yes, I'm scared of a beet. I read beets create major detox and can make you sick. Wtf? Now I don't know what to do... Dilute the whole thing? This juicing is strange business.

I'm still waiting for my energy to go up. Is this ever going to happen?

I don't want to puke beets :/



Here goes!









Monday, July 25, 2011

Artist Interviews

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Browsers, join the site. Keep up with call to artists, read other interviews, submit your events and more.



Blue Bunny Red Velvet Ice Cream


Oh no! Why did I buy this.

This yummy, fakey, terrible, horrible, no good very bad-- amaaacing devils food. I hurriedly crammed away all my groceries so I could dig my spoon into the carton. By the time I busted in to it, it was the optimum softness. You know what I mean. Just melty enough to glide your spoon through, yet still an icy dream. Let me just tell you, the carton of blue bunny comes sealed. You have to BREAK into it. I know why they do this. If they didn't, everyone in the grocery store would be stabbing at it.

Blue Bunny Red Velvet Ice Cream. You neeeed it!

Damn you Duff Goldman for teaming up with blue bunny!!!





Artist Interview: Scott Rambo III




What is your name: Scott Rambo III
From Plano, Texas

Do you have a formal art education or are you a self taught artist: Mostly self taught. My first year in college (1963) I was an art major at Glassboro State College in Glassboro, NJ. I then studied structural engineering followed by electronics which is where I spent most of my career. In 2008 I was introduced to custom hand engraving with the use of a high speed dental drill. I completed an engraving class by the world renowned Ken Brown and was certified in 2009.

What is the style of your pieces: My carvings are very diverse in style from contemporary, geometric to very detailed scenic or floral designs.

What is the medium in which you work: Using a high speed dental drill I hand-carve ostrich and emu eggs. With the same equipment I also engrave on glass, metal and wood. During the holidays and special events I can often be found at one of the local Dallas/Fort Worth area Nordstrom or Dillard’s department stores engraving personal messages on customer fragrance bottles.

What started you on your path as an artist: In the early 1960’s I enjoyed a bit of artistic talent during my school years and was fortunate to win a few local art events. A stint in the U.S. Navy, new family responsibilities and a career in computers drew me away from art for many years. Then in the mid 1980’s I became interested in photography and became a part time wedding photographer which I still enjoy today. In 2008 I was introduced to engraving and

What is one of the most important things that art has brought to your life: I love the joy my work brings to each of my customers and observers during live events. The smile on their faces and twinkle in their eyes as they explore the detail of each custom piece.

What is your favorite genre of art besides the one you work in: Photography

Do you have art showings, and if so what are they typically like: I have never had a personal show but am currently participating in the Vertu Art Exhibit in Plano, TX and OXIDE Art Gallery in Denton, TX. These are mostly with one to three of my carved ostrich eggs, of differing styles, being part of a mixed medium exhibit.

Do you have a certain set of clothes you make art in: No, I wear just about anything that I do not mind getting very dirty with egg particles and dust from the carving process. The dust go’s everywhere which is why my wife ‘encouraged’ me to move my studio from one of the spare rooms to the garage!

What has been the most frustrating part of being an artist? Finding buyers who do not mind spending a few $$ on none essentials during tight economic times.

What is your favorite sandwich of all time: Peanut butter and crispy bacon on fresh bread!!

Has this year brought about any changes in your work, and if so what are they: More time to carve exploring different styles and presentation.

Who is your favorite artist alive or dead: Salvador Dali

What is the most moving piece of artwork that you have seen in person? None come to mind.

Do you have any animals, and what do they think of your work: I have two smallish dogs which love my work (they have both told me so) but do not care for the noise of the carving tools. Yap yap yap!

Do you have any upcoming exhibitions you would like to share with us: Three eggs are currently being shown at OXIDE Gallery in Denton, TX.

Web address: www.scottrambo.com


MTV Staying Alive Foundation Presents ‘MTV RE:DEFINE’

A benefit art exhibition and auction featuring 30 internationally acclaimed artists including Damien Hirst and Tracey Emin to mark 30 years of AIDS

New York, London - July 25, 2011 – The MTV Staying Alive Foundation today announced a dynamic new project to mark the 30th anniversary of the discovery of the AIDS virus.

Hosted at the Goss-Michael Foundation in Dallas and curated by The Future Tense, MTV RE:DEFINE will bring together original works, many specially commissioned for the project, from a bold roster of 30 of the world’s most exciting contemporary artists, photographers and sculptors, including key emerging talents. All 30 pieces will be auctioned, with 100% of the proceeds benefitting the MTV Staying Alive Foundation, which encourages, energizes and empowers young people who are involved in HIV and AIDS awareness, education and prevention campaigns.

Since launching in 1981, MTV has worked with some of the most influential figures in contemporary art including Andy Warhol, Jean-Michel Basquiat and Keith Haring. For MTV RE:DEFINE, project curators The Future Tense have sourced and commissioned an eclectic selection of original artworks from both established and emerging artists, including Damien Hirst, Tracey Emin, Gérard Rancinan, Shepard Fairey and Katrin Fridriks.

The exhibition will be open to the public from Friday, September 16th and will culminate in a VIP reception on Saturday, September 24th during which all 30 works will feature in a live auction event in support of the Staying Alive Foundation. For those unable to attend the event, absentee bids will also be accepted including via telephone – please visit www.mtvredefine.com for more information on how to bid.

Georgia Arnold, Executive Director of the Staying Alive Foundation said, “MTV has always naturally partnered with cutting edge talent and artists, and I’m delighted that we are doing so on this occasion to support the work of the Staying Alive Foundation. Each one of the 30 pieces of art represents a year since the discovery of AIDS and the proceeds from each work will make a huge contribution to empowering young people engaged in fighting the stigma, spread and threat of the epidemic 30 years on. I want to thank each and every artist for their enormous generosity.”

Ed Bartlett, founder of The Future Tense said, “Our aim with this project was to bring together a body of work that we felt resonated with both the ‘RE:DEFINE’ high concept, but also with our interpretation of the past, present and future ‘MTV Generation’ artists. Throughout the project each artist has truly engaged with these ideals, in many cases commissioning brand new work for the show, and we believe the resulting exhibition will speak for itself.”

The VIP reception will feature a live music performance (talent to be announced soon), and the event will be complemented by a full catalogue production, plus support from a range of premium sponsors, including Moët & Chandon, The Dallas Morning News and Neiman Marcus.

Full details of the event can be found on the official website, www.mtvredefine.com where details of the remaining 25 artists will be revealed in groups of 5 each Monday at midday EST over the next five weeks. Project updates can also be followed in real-time on Twitter via @mtvredefine and Facebook at www.facebook.com/mtvredefine.

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ABOUT MTV INTERNATIONAL’S STAYING ALIVE FOUNDATION
The MTV Staying Alive Foundation is a global grant-giving and content-producing public charity operating in affiliation with MTV Networks International. 
In 1998, MTV launched the Staying Alive TV series, which grew to be the world’s largest multimedia HIV prevention and awareness campaign for young people, including documentaries, dramas, public service announcements, websites, events and forums.
In 2004, the MTV Staying Alive Foundation was created, expanding the initiative in to a charitable, grant-giving organization to support youth-led initiatives committed to stopping the spread of HIV in local communities.

To date, the Foundation has awarded 304 grants in 61 countries across the world, distributing over $3 million.  The MTV Staying Alive Foundation is dedicated to fighting stigma and discrimination and empowering young people to protect themselves against the disease.  The MTV Staying Alive Foundation is registered as a UK charity and as a 501c3 charitable organization in the US.

For more information visit http://stayingalivefoundation.org

ABOUT THE FUTURE TENSE
The Future Tense acts as a springboard for a dynamic roster of emerging contemporary artists, working closely with them to support all aspects of their career progression.
Free from the constraints of a fixed gallery space, The Future Tense creates unique event concepts and genre-defining projects, curating bespoke spaces and working with affiliate galleries to service a broad spectrum of private and institutional collectors.

The Future Tense also applies award-winning vision and creative thinking on behalf of brands seeking cultural innovation, delivering uniquely engaging results through a diverse network of collaborators.

Highly socially aware and with strong philanthropic sensibilities, The Future Tense works closely with a number of charitable causes including the MTV Staying Alive Foundation and children’s charity, War Child.

For more information visit www.thefuturetense.net

ABOUT THE GOSS-MICHAEL FOUNDATION
The Goss-Michael Foundation was founded by George Michael and Kenny Goss in June 2007.

The Foundation offers the public a rotating schedule of exhibitions derived from Goss and Michael’s private collection of British contemporary art as well as other institutions.

The Goss-Michael Foundation exists to educate, engage and inspire audiences by presenting exhibitions of British Contemporary art, provide vast resources, educational programs and scholarships to aspiring artists.

For more information visit www.gossmichaelfoundation.org/