Rich Tu: The Blog

RIP Blogger

2011-09-15T06:36:00.004-04:00

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Giant-Size

2011-09-13T11:25:00.004-04:00

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Sup blog. I was messing around the other day and whipped this up for my good friend Edwin Vazquez and his Comix Gone Rogue series. It's not on newsstands, but if it was I'd buy it.

Subcultures 06 - Metal Marionettes

2011-09-02T13:29:00.001-04:00

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Allo blog.

Here's the final piece of the series. Just metal all the way.

The Same Old Ball Game

2011-09-01T11:57:00.004-04:00

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Pryvit Blog.

Interrupting the Subculture series is this week's piece from The New York Times' Townies blog, written by Theodore Ross. In it, Ted shares with us some of his thoughts while at his son's little league game in Brooklyn. This is a great emotional read, and possibly my favorite of the series.

Subcultures 05 - Beach Kings

2011-08-31T11:15:00.004-04:00

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Hey Blog, what's up?

The fifth in the Subcultures t-shirt series focuses on bodybuilding. Specifically, on the golden heydays of Venice Beach in the 70's. Pumping Iron is one of my all-time favorite movies (Arnold is the American dream) and I wanted to bring out the fun of that era with a West Coast surf vibe. That time was glorious.

Subcultures 04 - Let's Get Furry

2011-08-30T07:53:00.011-04:00

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Hi Blog.

The fourth in the Subculture series is about a furries, whose fetish is centered around wearing furry costumes in varying scenarios. That's cool, I'm not gonna hate.

Subcultures 03 - Always Flapping

2011-08-29T07:15:00.009-04:00

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Good day Blog. Irene was a wash, we're all getting on with our lives.

Here's the third in the Subculture series. This is a mashup of 1920's flappers and early 80's punk aesthetic. In truth I always wonder if I'm doing something cheesy or trite and I was concerned, because these are two cultures that have been explored to death. Also, I wanted to avoid a steampunk vibe (just not a fan). I dig the results, family vibe.

Subcultures 02 - Dekotora x Japanese Rockabilly

2011-08-26T06:33:00.000-04:00

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Good morning Blog. Here's the next piece in this Subcultures series. This is a mash up of two Japanese social phenomena: highly elaborate and illuminated Dekotora trucks combined with the Nippon version of Rockabilly. These two things have nothing to do with each other besides their country of origin and their seemingly outlandish methods of self-expression. In terms of composition I wanted this to have a 70's movie poster collage vibe. This is one of my favorite pieces from the series.

Subcultures 01 - Scuttlers x Carnies

2011-08-25T11:43:00.006-04:00

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Oy blog, how's it going? A hurricane is brewing, New York had an earthquake, and Steve Jobs has left the building. I'm beginning to believe the Mayans. Just kidding, no I'm not.

In case you weren't aware I left my art directing gig to pursue other ventures and return to the outside world. It was fun while it lasted, but everyone has their time and mine was up (or to me it was anyway).

Anyway, one of the last things I created while at Dagr was a series of illustrations for a t-shirt line based on the concept of subcultures. Some mash-up and some standalone. I'll be posting them up as I'm very proud of the series itself. The images are meant to be screen printed and are all about 15" tall.

The above piece is a mash-up of scuttlers and carnies, definitely leaning towards a turn-of-the-century dandyish vibe with a freakshow twist. The tattoos on the brothers' bodies are based on Russian convict tattoos. There are a lot of references happening at the same time, and I like how it all came together.

More to come.

Here Comes the Autumn... and My Big Bald Head

2011-08-18T12:42:00.005-04:00

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Waddup Blog. Here's a damn fun double-page spread in FHM UK that I modeled for, thanks in part to my big bald head. It's a preview for the upcoming football (aka soccer) season.

It's always fun to have the tables turned on you, where all you do is sit in front of the camera and just wait for the results.

Photography by Gorman Studio
Makeup by Valissa Yoe
Design/Art Direction by 10Ten Media (Anthony Scerri, Ian Knowles, & company)

Logo On, Logo Off

2011-08-12T17:29:00.006-04:00

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Hey Blog, crazy week this week, especially with the launch of Pozzle, my new app with partner Charles Jamerlan. A fuller update on that soon. However, here are logos I created for the lovely people at SLAM, and their issue of KICKS (both the regular versions and their Foot Locker variants). I can't lie, I love sneakers.

Also, as a bonus, here's a special seal created for SLAM's 150th issue not too long ago.

You're My Favorite 09

2011-08-07T04:50:00.006-04:00

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Hi Blog, the latest entry.

Also, big announcements this week as to what I've been up to. Looking forward to the future.

You're My Favorite 08

2011-07-13T08:04:00.004-04:00

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Hi Blog, returning to the series after a long hiatus. Sorry to have kept you waiting.

Allow Me To Reintroduce Myself...

2011-06-28T12:05:00.006-04:00

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Sup Blog, I hope you're doing well. I recently teamed up with my French soul brother Ahmed Klink for a promo assist. There's more to come, but for now here's one of Ahmed's images of Hova taken at the All Point West Festival. Don't be surprised if you see these stickers walking around NYC.

Not posted by me of course :)

Just In Case

2011-06-12T19:27:00.005-04:00

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Hello Blog, my mailbox was recently blessed with my new custom iPhone4 case. Wonderful frivolities.

There Goes The Neighborhood Totebag

2011-05-31T05:37:00.007-04:00

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Hi Blog, sorry for the radio silence. Life has been intense the past couple of weeks and I needed to stay at the grind. Some great projects are coming up soon though and I'll be sure to keep you updated.

In the meantime here are pics of a tote-bag that I worked on with my long time collaborator Tshombe Knight of the OMBE Shop. Its a companion tote-bag to the There Goes The Neighborhood pieces (Also, we were hoping to give away several at the Apple Store lecture, but production proved too time intensive).

It is constructed with heavy weight waterproof canvas and patent leather handles. Also, it is printed on both sides and features a snap closure. It is currently available at The Newark Museum.

Spectac-Lecture / 05.13.11

2011-05-10T11:04:00.004-04:00

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Salve, Blog. This Friday I, Clay Rodery, You Byun, and Jon Burgerman will be speaking at The University of Delaware. Come out and eat some pizza. And yes, that IS the name of the event.

Friday, May 13 2011
The University of Delaware
Recitation Illustration Room
3pm-5pm

Shitty Art - Updated

2011-04-29T09:52:00.010-04:00

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Ho there Blog. This is preview of a collaborative mural project at the Art Directors Club with Timothy Goodman, Mikey Burton, Chris Rubino, Elle Kim, Lotta Nieminen, Stefanie Weigler, and Jennifer Daniel. Last weekend we spent the day making a big mess. It was a lot of fun... and kind of humid. More pics soon.

*update* Pics courtesy of the Art Directors Club.

And a special thanks to Leah Romero and Alelli Tanghal for helping us out with some much needed support.

American Illustration 30

2011-04-18T22:51:00.008-04:00

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Well hello Blog. I was just notified that three of my pieces have been selected to appear in the American Illustration 30 annual. I'm very excited, as this is a 300% improvement over last year. Among the selections are two pieces from Bang Boom Pow (last's year's collab with Andy Lin, Kids With Candy, and models Julia Royter and Elaina Royter), and a piece from You're My Favorite, which makes me very happy as that series is very close to my heart.

Congrats to everyone that won and I'll see you at the party.

Source Code

2011-04-15T00:22:00.005-04:00

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Hello there Blog. Here's another spread I worked on for SLAM, concerning Ray's Allen's status as the greatest shooter in the NBA, with possible contention for all time. There's no question that he got game.

The Curious Case of Vin Baker

2011-04-12T12:16:00.004-04:00

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Ola Blog. This is a spread I worked on for the friends at SLAM, and a story about Vin Baker, former 4 time NBA All-star who disappeared from the NBA due to problems with alcohol abuse. He has since regained his way and currently coaches high school freshmen basketball.

Watch this amazing speech he gave to his players.

Genius or Gibberish

2011-04-08T10:10:00.003-04:00

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Guten Morgan Blog, it's the end of the week. This is a piece I did for The Village Voice in their special comics issue in honor of MOCCA. It concerns String Theory's main proponent and main detractor. Brian Greene is the former, Peter Woit is the latter, and both are professors at Columbia University.

Personally, I believe in the possibility of String Theory and like Brian Green, but I'm Team Michio all the way. Check out The Doctor in action.

The Practice

2011-04-04T21:01:00.009-04:00

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Hello Blog, be ready for energy. This is a 60 second video I produced and directed for Dagr-Nott @ Associates for Alcatel One Touch and the Find Your Tribe campaign.

Featuring the Dynamic Rockers (Meen 187, Tata, Lil' Tony, Whorah, Lacuna, and Defy).
Edited by Joel Nealy
Audio/Sound by Jared Arnold and Dave Rivera
Cinematography by Joel Nealy and Joshua Cayabyab.

The Noon After / Ed Hopper Re-Imagined

2011-03-28T01:00:00.015-04:00

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Oh, hi Blog. I didn't see you there. This piece is entitled The Noon After and a 50" x 33" print of it will be on display at the Hopper House in Nyack, New York. The show is called "Hopper Re-Imagined" and will showcase work by luminaries inspired by the man himself.

The reception is this Sunday, April 3rd (3 - 5pm), and the show will be on display from April 2 - May 8. I will definitely be there.

If you aren't aware of Edward Hopper, educate yourself.

ADC Young Guns 9 Call for Entries Party / 3.24.11

2011-03-23T09:48:00.007-04:00

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Just go already. RSVP here.

The amazing image courtesy of Nessim Higson (YG5) and Brandy Fontenot. Love to Kids With Candy fam. More of the YG9 campaign here.

What have we been up to at Dagr? Pt. 3

2011-03-20T14:26:00.004-04:00

First of all, I want to thank the awesome kids at Swarthmore College for being so hospitable and showing a great time. I had a lot of fun and the lecture went off without a hitch. I hope all lectures are as fun as that one.

Above we have the third video in the series produced by Dagr-Nott & Associates, featuring a track by Grammy winning artist Andres Levin. As a producer, he has collaborated with John Legend, Chaka Khan, David Byrne, Natalie Merchant and many others. Andres is also acclaimed for his work with his own band Yerba Buena.

Rich Tu x Swarthmore / 03.18.11

2011-03-05T16:37:00.016-05:00

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Sup Blog. Mark your calendars. I have been invited to speak at Swarthmore College on Friday, March 18th. Lecture begins at 4pm at the Science Center 199. There will also be a demo of my process along with a Q&A.

Also, a HUGE thanks goes out to the utterly brilliant artists who were coerced into making my ugly mug more palatable (organized and designed by illustrator/designer/assistant extraordinaire Robyn Ng), including the world famous Jayson Atienza (YG5).

Robyn Ng, Jayson Atienza, Sam Wolfe Connelly, Karen Demaio, Daniel Fishel, Daniel Hertzberg, Lorraine Nam, Clay Rodery, Zejian Shen, Dadu Shin

Townies pt. 4: Drinking Off the Job

2011-03-03T07:23:00.007-05:00

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Hello Blog, it's my last week of blogging for The New York Times' Townies with author Ted Ross. It has been a great month with great subject matter. I like the catharsis of the final piece as well. Enjoy.

Watch Me Work

2011-03-02T17:59:00.019-05:00

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Hi Blog, here's the video of the G-Shock collab for Respect Magazine. I'm really proud of it. Also, it definitely helps to know a world famous Rockette who can do splits with the best in the world.

Rich Tu x G-Shock for RESPECT

2011-02-25T08:02:00.005-05:00

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Sup Blog, Happy Friday. I'm stoked to finally show you this, which is a collaboration I did with G-Shock for RESPECT Magazine. I got to choose a watch model (in this case the GA110-1A) and create my own rendition of it. I kept it colorful and rugged looking, which are both characteristics I associate with G-Shock. It was a lot of fun, and the photo shoot took place in my studio a few weeks ago. Photography by the amazing Tom Medvedich. Love and shouts to the Kids With Candy family. There is also a video segment coming soon, which has more surprises

Look for this issue of RESPECT now, with Mr. Maybach on the cover.

Townies pt. 3: Out of Work, Out of Time

2011-02-24T08:02:00.004-05:00

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Good morning Blog. Here's the third installment of The New York Times' Townies blog. This week, the author discusses how his new unemployed status has affected interaction with his children. I like how this piece ends in particular.

What have we been up to at Dagr? Pt. 2

2011-02-22T16:06:00.004-05:00

Sup Blog. Here's the second video, also seen at the Apple talk. Track is by Rob Swift of the legendary crew The X-Ecutioners.

No Fear

2011-02-18T08:03:00.002-05:00

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What's up Blog. I know I've been posting like a madman the past few days. There's a lot going on, and its exciting (and tiring). This piece is a double page spread I worked on for the good people at SLAM, and a story about Andrew Bogut, a player for the Milwaukee Bucks. He suffered a horrific accident last year, but bounced back amazingly well, and really epitomizes "No Fear".

Townies pt. 2: Love and Other Insurance Policies

2011-02-17T08:02:00.000-05:00

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Hi Blog. Here's the latest entry into The New York Times' Townies blog, in which the author discusses his current marital situation. He is very frank and honest, making it an interesting read. Enjoy.

What have we been up to at Dagr?

2011-02-16T18:38:00.009-05:00

Good evening Blog. I'm under the weather right now, but wanted to drop this vid. I previewed this at my Apple talk. Here's the final version for those of you who didn't see it. The track is courtesy of Jihae, who's album Fire Burning Rain is available now.

Two more to drop over the next few days.

Timo Weiland @ NY Fashion Week

2011-02-14T10:40:00.018-05:00

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Sup Blog. I got away from my desk on Sunday to attend the Timo Weiland show at Fashion Week. Great presentation, and I liked the simplicity of the mens' pieces and the patterns on the womens'. Great show. Brought the camera as usual.

Townies pt. 1: A Beginner’s Guide to Unemployment

2011-02-09T16:17:00.008-05:00

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Sup blog, how is life. This month I'm teaming up with writer Theodore Ross for The New York Times' Townies blog. There will be four installments and this is the first. The subject covers unemployment and traces Ted's journey as a former literary editor to now. I'm enjoying the read so far.

Ted is releasing his first book, entitled I Am a Jew, next year.

The Wisdom of Lenny

2011-02-02T13:58:00.007-05:00

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What it is Blog. Hope you're doing well. This is for a comics issue of Feathertale. I haven't done sequential or panel-based work in a while and wanted to show my love of Lenny Bruce. Look for Feathertale soon.

Pocket Rocket

2011-01-26T12:57:00.003-05:00

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Hi Blog, here's a piece for SLAM and a story about Calvin Murphy, Houston's greatest short player ever and one of the finest to ever play the game.

Apple Store SoHo Recap + THANK YOUS

2011-01-21T11:59:00.017-05:00

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*notice* Consolidated posts.

Hey there Blog. Here's a little photo recap of what happened at Monday's Apple Store SoHo talk. Erin from the ADC and Jayson Atienza gave me a great intro and let me do my thing. My talk was titled "Braincicles" and was mostly me showing my work and providing (hopefully helpful) anecdotes about them. I showed a vid from my past and ended with some Dagr-Nott work, with Justin Weber utterly destroying with his yo yo. The only snafu was a failure to show clips from Extreme Makeover: Home Edition. No big deal, however we did miss the Great Gonzo.

Great time overall, and many thanks to the world famous Ahmed Klink for hanging out with his camera. Also, audience member Elle Dio was nice enough to provide a couple more shots as well.

Many thanks to Jayson Atienza for the intro, Erin Biggerstaff from the ADC, Brian Davis from Apple Store SoHo, Tshombe Knight from OMBE, Ahmed Klink, Carmela Pereira, Gina Schiappacasse, Chris Rabanes, and of course my secret weapon Justin Weber! It was definitely a team effort and I would have crumbled if not for them.

Apple Store SoHo, this Monday

2011-01-15T17:07:00.011-05:00

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Hi Blog, don't forget that this Monday, January 17 at 6:30pm I'll be appearing at the Apple Store SoHo in conjunction with the ADC Young Gun series. I will discuss my range of work and have a few surprises in store as well. At this point, its looking closer to a variety show than keynote speech.

Also, I will have complementary gifts from the There Goes The Neighbor Hood concept for those that show up early. This gift is highly wearable.

See you there.

You're My Favorite 07

2011-01-03T06:15:00.002-05:00

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Hi Blog, Happy New Year. 2010 was amazing, and I'm looking forward to 2011 with even more fervor and excitement. Over the holiday break I had time to go back into the series You're My Favorite. I don't know what the ultimate final number will be for this series. I imagine one day when I am an old man I will stare at these existing and future works and feel compelled to make one more.

01.17.11 / Rich Tu @ Apple Store, SoHo, NYC

2010-12-15T19:15:00.013-05:00

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Hey blog, exciting news. On Monday, January 17th, 6:30pm I'll be giving a lecture at the Apple Store in SoHo, NYC in conjunction with The Art Directors Club and their Young Guns lecture series. Their theater seats about 100 people and is specially designed for workshops and presentations, along with occasional musical performance. I will discuss my work, my thought process, and current projects. Also, there will be a Q&A afterward. I look forward to seeing you there.

Monday, January 17, 2011
6:30 - 8:00 PM
Apple Store SoHo
103 Prince Street, NYC

Free, no reservation required.

Storefront Jesus

2010-12-03T10:10:00.012-05:00

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Hello Blog. I hope your Thanksgiving was nice. Mine was a nice reprieve from my usual schedule of insanity. Also, I had time to explore my recent obsession which is the phenomenon of Baptist churches which occupy former storefronts.

My main goal is to explore the places we find comfort in, in relation to financial, geographic, and racial demographics. In the same way that you see an abundance of coffee spots in higher income neighborhoods, lower income neighborhoods have their own tentpoles (Think coffee spots aren't tentpoles? See what happens when you close one down.)

I plan to obsess more.

Decoded

2010-11-22T06:05:00.003-05:00

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Hey Blog, what it is. Here's some typography I did for the good people at SLAM. I wanted to use the unpixelated portion of the photo as a sign that Ron had found clarity in his life. I would like to thank Ron's psychiatrist too.

That New New

2010-11-16T10:21:00.007-05:00

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Hey Blog. In case you haven't visited in a while, RichTu.com has gone through an extensive overhaul, thanks (in no small part) to Vince Nalupta at Snailbites. Also, if you're looking at it from a 13" screen, the only thing I can tell you is to grow up and get a big boy computer.

Blue Roses for The New Yorker

2010-10-27T11:34:00.006-04:00

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Greetings Blog. First off, this week has been a no-sleeper, but for good reason, as we've been working hard at the agency. A special thanks to my team Clay Rodery and You Byun who are two of the hardest working humans I know.

Above is an image I created for a short story entitled "Blue Roses" by Frances Hwang in The New Yorker's fiction section. It is a very subtle story about an Asian-American woman and her contentious relationships with her grown children and with her friend, an ailing widow. I felt very close to the characters because they have many Asian-specific idiosyncrasies that I know my own mother to have as well as many of the older women I knew growing up. By the end I felt as If I knew the female protagonists personally.

Also, I'm particularly stoked to be in the cartoon issue, with an Ivan Brunetti cover, as his section in my well-worn copy of In the Studio is fascinating.

Music Icons

2010-10-22T02:56:00.004-04:00

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Hello Blog. Here's a sneak peek at a project in progress. I'm currently working on a website redesign for Grammy Award winning producer (for In the Heights) Andres Levin. These are link icons I created, which are (from left to right): about, music, Music Has No Enemies, film, TV, festivals & live, advertising, and Fun Machine.

Also, speaking of websites, mine is going through an extensive redesign and will launch soon. Stay tuned.

Black & White Perspective

2010-10-14T12:35:00.005-04:00

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Hi Blog, here's a spread I worked on for SLAM and a story about referees in the NBA. At first I wanted to throw more color in, but in the end referees are traditionally garbed in black and white, so the monochromatic approach worked for the best.

Also, thanks again to the Art Directors Club for throwing an amazing bash for the Young Guns 8 winners. It was fun and meeting everyone was a blast. Check out pics on Facebook. Enjoy!

There Goes The Neighborhood

2010-10-05T02:04:00.013-04:00

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Hi Blog. This is a collaboration between the OMBE Shop, Collective Revolution, and myself for a recent exhibit at 239 Collective called Design Newark, which showcases Newark based artists. The exhibit looks at the history and pride of Newark, with an eye towards urban renewal. The collab involved several pieces of apparel, including t-shirts, crewneck sweaters, and jackets. The pieces came out really crisp and don’t be surprised if you bump into me on the street wearing them.

239 Collective is a creative hub in the heart of downtown Newark, near the intersection of Washington and Market st. The exhibit is up until December 3rd.

Older Deuteronomy

2010-09-30T13:16:00.006-04:00

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Hello Blog. This is a piece that was posted on the very excellent Picture Book Report not too long ago and I wanted to post it here as well.

"This is a revisionist portrait of the character Old Deuteronomy from T.S. Eliot’s book Old Possum’s Book of Practical Cats (popularized by the Broadway play Cats). I always wanted to rethink the imagery of this book (well, really the play) because when I was a kid I used to see the commercials for Broadway’s Cats on New York television and see the actor [Ken Page] all dolled up as O.D., being presented as this triumphant Messianic figure akin to Moses and quite honestly, I hated it.

When reading the text you understand that O.D. is very very old, almost ancient. He’s seen a lot of war and grief seen and outlived a lot of other cats including his loves. Now if I were an ancient cat I don’t think I would be standing around looking like Moses all the time. I would probably be beat up, sick, have liver spots (I anthropomorphosized him somewhat), weird hairs, and be sad at having to carry the weight of seeing everyone around me die and outliving them. It would be a curse. Why couldn’t I have died with my friends in war or something?

If O.D.’s a Messianic figure, I view him as a tortured Christ having to make difficult decisions and feeling that painful weight, literally on his head. Also, technically he’s a Pekingese, but hairless cats are much more human to me. Often times I look at a cat and can’t get an emotional hold on it, but not so with a hairless."

Pencil Pusher Party

2010-09-20T00:28:00.005-04:00

spaceHey Blog. If you saw the Art Directors Club CFE launch party invite, you saw my redesign of the iconic ADC Cube open to its previous winners. I'll be there, come out and play.

Tuesday, Sept. 21, 2010
6:30-8:30pm
@ ADC Gallery
106 West 29th Street, NYC

ADC Young Guns 8

2010-09-15T19:36:00.005-04:00

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Hi Blog, so it's official. Congrats to the other 49 winners of this year's ADCYG8. I'm really amazed at the depth of this year's field and how great all these artists' are. I'm stoked to be included in the same conversation with them.

Fun fact: This is the first time that brothers have won YG (Jayson Atienza, YG6).

Opening with an Update

2010-09-11T15:15:00.008-04:00

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Hi Blog, where have I been? I'm not sure, but I'm still here. Its hectic and insane right now, but that's the place where creativity (or just insanity) happens. I recently signed on as interim Art Director of Dagr-Nott & Associates. I've been working with them the past few months on a great project which we're in the thick of now, and I'm very excited. I will still be taking commissions, but on a case by case basis.

As for the main purpose of this post, I am participating in a gallery opening tonight at the International Visions Gallery in Washington D.C., which is hosting a show for The Bombay Sapphire Artisan Series, in conjunction with Art For Life and Russell Simmons' Rush Foundation. My piece You're My Favorite 01 will be there, along with some other great shortlisted artists.

Unfortunately I won't be able to attend the opening tonight as I have much to do but it's bound to be great. Details below:

International Visions Gallery
2629 Connecticut Ave. N.W.
Washington, D.C. 20008

September 2 - October 2
Opening Reception: Saturday, September 11,
6:30pm - 8:30pm

Wall Star

2010-08-12T22:44:00.018-04:00

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Salutations Blog. Here is a piece I did for the good people at KICKS (the sister magazine of SLAM). I love experimenting and was really grateful to KICKS for letting me go wild with the brick concept. Every brick was created separately, and it was kind of like building a real wall.

As for the story, it concerns John Wall. Wall, in case you live under a large rock, is the heavily touted #1 NBA draft pick. He was recruited by the Washington Wizards, and in an interesting move has signed with Reebok, who is looking to re-establish their post-Iverson basketball division. I guess we'll see whether he lives up to the hype. No pressure, right?

Concept / Aesthetics / Everything Else

2010-08-07T06:29:00.060-04:00

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Hi Blog. Lately I've been thinking about how artists perceive and even categorize their work based on the parameters of concept and/or aesthetics. I can only speak for myself and about what happens in my own brain, so feel free to disagree. However, one day in the future I want to sit with my son, turn on my hologram computer with my mind and show him that his dad had an interesting thought once.

I see “conceptual” as an intersection of multiple ideas (top row, left). The ideas cross and create new, hopefully surprising, associations. For the most part, I am a fan of simplicity and I love this type of work to be short, graphic, and to the point. I like getting in a getting out. No muss, no fuss.

Sometimes I like do work that focuses on “aesthetics” (top row, right). To me this is like dancing, where you create a line and the movement creates a pleasing track for the eye. Occasionally I like a rougher aesthetic (second row, left), but the purpose is the same, to achieve a desired effect on the viewer based on the nature of the mark making.

More often than not I attempt a balancing act between conceptual and aesthetic (second row, right). There is an attempt at balance or flow, but with a moment of tension or an intersection of ideas. A lot of editorial artists push for this, and it is difficult for sure. For me, the most important part is the moment of intersection where something clicks with the viewer. As much as I might want something to look “pretty”, communication is my main goal, whether it is an idea, feeling, etc.

If I’m feeling cheeky, I attempt complex interactions between concept and aesthetic that involve a myriad of visual relationships, ideas, thoughts, and feelings (bottom row, left). In my eyes, I fail more often than I succeed, but the ideals remain the same. In my opinion, the acceptance of failure is just as important as the vision of winning, at least when it pertains to this. If I accept the fact that something I created can be the worst thing I’ve ever done, I actually feel better about it. I learn best by doing, and when that is your educational modus, you are bound to fall face-first more than once.

And lastly, sometimes I don't know what the f*ck I’m doing (bottom row, right).

I know, this is an extremely narrow view and does not even begin to describe the scope of possibilities. It doesn't get into other possibilities involving emotions, warmth and cold, or aesthetics as concept. Also, I don't even mention narrative, which is a different monster onto itself. I just want to provide some insight into why I do things, and for my own sake I am attempting to reign in my own ADHD tendencies. Another way of seeing this is as a decathlete’s approach to image making, which is consistency over disciplines with mastery of none. I can draw pretty damn well, but I’m far from the best. Likewise, I can paint pretty damn well, but… oh wait, I’m terrible at that. But that doesn’t stop me from trying, which to me is more important anyway.

Fuse the Boss

2010-07-30T00:30:00.009-04:00

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Hi Blog, sorry for the silence the past few days. I've been preoccupied with what will hopefully become a much larger project so I and a few others are pulling some overtime. However, here is a spread I recently finished for SLAM Magazine and their feature on Nike's Hyperfuse, which Rajon Rondo was wearing during the NBA finals (causing many a sneaker fan to pause their DVRs).

Now first, a confession. I am a recovering sneakerhead and own over 100 pairs of sneakers, many of which I've never worn outside. I spent many nights on niketalk.com looking at what was coming out and what others bought. I know, it's sick, but I've seen much worse. At one point I was buying a pair a week. I quit that a long time ago, however, but still get very excited about them.

So, as you can imagine this assignment was a lot of fun for me, and Nike was cool enough to provide a lot of photos to choose from. Also, I've been wanting to explore more hand typography, and this was a great chance. I liked this close-up shot, as this red/white/blue related to my shoelace concept. I felt the key was to not go too crazy and let the shoe speak for itself, as it's beautifully designed. Personally, I have my eyes set on these.

Photo Favorites 2010

2010-07-16T02:41:00.023-04:00

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Hey Blog, I haven't done one of these in a while, but I'm about due since its the middle of the year. If you're curious as to whose rings those are, they belong to this man. The Bishop was very cool, and very pimp... literally.

Also, this week has been hectic in a great way, and I received some AMAZING news which I can't talk about until October 7th (which might be a clue in itself). Otherwise, enjoy.

I have one piece of commentary about this last photo, which I truly love, even though it makes me somewhat sad. When I see it, I think, "I will never have as much fun as these two are having right now", which is depressing when you think about it.

Wet Mask

2010-07-05T18:02:00.004-04:00

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Greetings Blog, and Happy Belated Birthday United States of the Americas. It's a million degrees here on the east coast. I'll take desert heat over coastal humidity any day.

Bright Lights, Not Really

2010-07-02T14:22:00.008-04:00

spaceHappy Friday Blog. I just got back from Las Vegas late last night. I had a great time, met some amazing people, and didn't wuss out on the Stratosphere's SkyJump (my "jump" involved a lot of profanities and attempts at bargaining).

In the spirit of bright lights and big cities, enjoy this GIF made from airplane doodles.

Buttsicle

2010-06-28T06:32:00.001-04:00

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Hi Blog. I'm in Las Vegas this week enjoying some sun (crutches and all). It's going to be 110 degrees today, so that's something to look forward to.

You're My Favorite 06

2010-06-25T15:18:00.007-04:00

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Hey Blog, here's the latest addition to You're My Favorite.

Also, I'm almost off my crutches. Dance floors beware.

Wake Up It's Tuesday

2010-06-21T05:44:00.006-04:00

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Well, it's not really Tuesday, but that is the title of this latest piece, inspired by this found photograph. Also, a belated Happy Father's Day. I spent mine on the shore gluttonizing on seafood with my family. I hope yours was just as fun. See you later, Blog.

You're My Favorite 05 and Recklessness

2010-06-17T03:29:00.008-04:00

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Hello Blog. It's Thursday, and along with the latest piece from You're My Favorite, I've taken the liberty to post a few pages from the late Paul Arden's recent classic Whatever You Think, Think the Opposite. I often read it when the ghosts of self doubt creep in, and wanted to share some of my favorite pages from the section "The Case For Being Reckless".

Part 1
Part 2
Part 3

You're My Favorite 04

2010-06-11T13:56:00.004-04:00

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Hi Blog, I'm finishing the week off right, even if it's one-legged. The one positive with having a broken foot is that my good leg is flamingo status now.

You're My Favorite 03

2010-06-09T01:02:00.007-04:00

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Hi Blog, another piece from You're My Favorite.

In unrelated news, I broke my foot on Sunday and will be hobbling around for a while. If I work hard enough, maybe I'll be the new Crutchmaster.

Bang Boom Pow

2010-06-07T01:27:00.008-04:00

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Hey Blog, this is a preview of a collaboration I recently finished with photographer Andy Lin for Kids With Candy's lookbook. Does it get cooler than motorcycles and aerialists?

Click here to view the rest of the lookbook.

You're My Favorite 02

2010-06-04T14:52:00.003-04:00

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Hey Blog. Here's another piece of You're My Favorite.

And check out the new Kids With Candy. Casey and Monique do it big as usual.

You're My Favorite

2010-06-04T00:43:00.006-04:00

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Greetings Blog. This has been one of those sleepless kinds of weeks. I've been working on an advertising project, which unfortunately I can not divulge details about. I've still been working on some personal work and started a couple pieces for a personal series called You're My Favorite. This is the first.

Wren Bjorg Preview 2

2010-05-28T10:40:00.008-04:00

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Hey Blog, been busy the past few days. I did a Wren Bjorg preview a few months ago, and finally got to doing some more images with Shannon Rankin and this time Sidney Pink as well. Their work was so cool I just tried to get of the way and not ruin it too much, aha. Here are a couple images, to tide help you kick off the long weekend.

Also, in Shannon's case, the backs of her work are just as beautiful as the fronts.

Oil of No-Way

2010-05-13T22:23:00.004-04:00

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Good evening Blog. This is a piece for today's "Letters to the Editor" page in the Op-Ed section of The New York Times. It has to do with the effort to contain the huge oil spill in the Gulf of Mexico. I usually dig the illustrations in this section because they get right to the point due to the size constraint. Plus, it's a great mental exercise. Below is an alternate idea that Aviva and I both liked but was ultimately passed up for the above image.

Bubblin' for Apples

2010-05-03T07:34:00.002-04:00

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Happy Monday Blog. First off, I had an great time at Chicken & Beer IV at the Brooklyn Lyceum on Friday. It was a great event, and I'm amazed that they had enough beer to last the whole event (it was all you can eat and all you can drink).

Speaking of alcoholic consumption, this is a custom wine label I recently finished for a Green Apple Riesling. It's 3.25 inches across and 4 inches high. Text goes in the center so I wanted to nest it in between the hanging green apples and the apple blossoms sprouting from the bottom.

So far I've done gin and wine. Everclear can't be far behind.

Hell's Gourmet Kitchen

2010-04-30T05:22:00.010-04:00

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Hi Blog. This is a piece I did for this week's Time Out New York and the Gourmet Food Truck Bazaar. This piece was done really quickly and it was a crunch getting it in. I simplified the people and kept it nice and graphic without too many visual acrobatics.

The Gourmet Food Truck Bazaar is happening on Sunday, May 2nd in Hell's Kitchen (W 39th St at Ninth Ave). Check it out the day after Floyd retires Shane.

American Illustration 29

2010-04-27T09:49:00.024-04:00

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Good afternoon blog. Not too long ago I was informed that my image "The Man Wakes Up" from the "Let There Be Stuff" Series was selected for the American Illustration 29 annual. I'm pretty honored, as this was one of the 388 images selected out of 8000+ submissions. This will be my first inclusion in the book. Soon a print of this piece will be available on Little Paper Planes for purchase (you can contact me privately as well). Also, the two images below, "Down the Highway, into the Night" and "He Felt Like He Was Floating Above Himself" were chosen for the website.

On a serious note, my family suffered a loss this week, as my grandmother passed on at the age of 90 early Sunday morning. She was the mother of ten children (my mother being the eldest), and was absolutely the epitome of strength and class. I appreciate the outpouring of support that my family and myself have received. Many thanks to you all.

Food Flight

2010-04-20T11:51:00.016-04:00

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Hey Blog, I missed last week. I was tired, forgive me. One of the things I was working on last week was a spread for a Media Planet supplement in USA Today concerning Celiac Disease, a disorder triggered by an intolerance to gluten which is found in wheat products. This went through a bunch of revisions; originally it was supposed to be a square piece for the cover. However, this horizontal format works much better visually.

Also, some of the students from FIT were nice enough to invite me to the opening of Illustration Futuro at the Illustration House last night. Check out the show, there's some great stuff in it!

Papercut

2010-04-09T03:25:00.002-04:00

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Hey Blog, and back to our normal illustrating program.

Devilish Nature

2010-04-08T02:16:00.001-04:00

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Manneken Pis

2010-04-07T05:05:00.000-04:00

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Hokusai's Wine

2010-04-06T01:30:00.000-04:00

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Misunderstanding

2010-04-05T01:47:00.007-04:00

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Atom x Eve

2010-04-02T06:58:00.001-04:00

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Cock Back

2010-04-01T06:40:00.003-04:00

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Math Problems

2010-03-31T11:42:00.007-04:00

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The Philosophy of Insomnia

2010-03-30T15:34:00.003-04:00

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Supreme Being

2010-03-29T13:03:00.005-04:00

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Hey Blog, its a rainy Monday here on the East Coast. I want to kick off the week with a logo that I just finished for a start-up production company. We should all be gunning for the crown.

Rich Tu & Jayson Atienza ART workshop for APEX

2010-03-22T16:19:00.028-04:00

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What's going on Blog. The other day I had the pleasure of conducting an artist workshop alongside Jayson Atienza (whose GAP shirts are still available here). The workshop was for APEX, which is a non-profit organization based in NYC focused on mentoring Asian American youth. They do some great work, and basically let us do our thing (and we got to play with one of those "smart" boards).

The day was composed of short presentations about our work , some Q&A, and then a whole lot of creativity time. It was so much fun, and the kids (and mentors) made some great stuff. Definitely the most interesting aspect was the juxtaposition of Jayson and myself (who do very different yet similar things) with several aspiring artists. Can't wait to do it again.

Alfa Art

2010-03-18T17:49:00.009-04:00

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Hey Blog, the prints for Alfa Romeo are now commercially available in limited editions of 100. I have two pieces available through them (Forwad Go and Wide Open). Also, I understand that the show featuring the prints will now travel to at least six cities around the world (so I get to see them in New York, awesome). If you're in Italy, you get first dibs. Check them out here:

Alfa Romeo: The Official Fine Art Prints Collection

The Manifest Equality Recap

2010-03-15T11:20:00.010-04:00

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Hi Blog, as promised here is the Manifest Equality recap. I had my camera handy so I snapped away. Most of these pics were taken during the afternoon leading up to the VIP preview night and that evening. A lot of people came through those doors during the course of the week, and it was an amazing sight. Also, I did my fair share of celebrity watching (didn't take too many pics of that tho). It was really a pleasure having a piece in that space, as it was filled to the brim with amazing artists, many of whom I've admired for years.

Here is a write-up in Vogue about Manifest Equality.

And in a completely unrelated anecdote, I was walking my dog at 5am this morning and saw a milkman delivering milk. I found it simultaneously both odd and comforting.

It's a Wrap: Rich Tu x Bombay Sapphire x Tokion Pt. 2

2010-03-13T06:14:00.013-05:00

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Happy weekend Blog, here are more pics of the event at The Griffin in NYC, courtesy of the good people at Tokion. Next up is the Manifest Equality recap.

It's a Wrap: Rich Tu x Bombay Sapphire x Tokion

2010-03-11T01:01:00.022-05:00

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Hey there Blog, last week was insane. Here's the short story. On Monday of last week I flew to LA from NYC for the VIP preview of Manifest Equality, flew back to NYC on Wednesday morning to attend my own party at The Griffin for Bombay and Tokion, and then flew BACK to LA on Thursday to close out Manifest Equality as well as take care of some business. I got back on Monday and finally got some real sleep. However, as promised, here's a wrap-up of The Bombay Sapphire event.

I was commissioned to design a one-off Bombay Sapphire bottle. This was a challenge as I've never worked on glass before. However, I tried a couple of different methods, and discovered that custom painted decals were the best way to go. The design itself is definitely aggressive, but I have to thank Bombay for being so supportive of the arts by giving my carte blanche.

For a few of those who attended, they received a custom t-shirt to commemorate the event. Only 72 were printed, in two colors, and we ran out in a few minutes. If you were lucky enough to get one, that's awesome because it will never see the light of day again, hahaha.

And finally here are some shots of the party courtesy of Matt Okpych's camera. When I saw these pics I thought they were so weird I had to use them. I don't know what is up with the dancing lights, but then again, we were all drinking gin, so maybe those lights really were there. Also, The Griffin is an AMAZING space (practically the entire ceiling was a chandelier). Also, there was an open bar for three hours, which is unheard of in the meatpacking district (to me at least).

Thanks to everyone that came, as it was a lot of fun, and made the plane rides worthwhile (and bearable). I was surrounded by a lot of supportive people, and would love the opportunity to do more events like this. I also need to thank Gina, Tshombe, and Matt, because they kicked ass while I was gone and really helped me out. And of course, thanks Bombay and thanks Tokion!

Unrequited

2010-03-05T13:46:00.005-05:00

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Sup Blog, I'm back in Cali (for the second time this week) after having a great evening with Bombay Sapphire and Tokion Magazine on Wednesday. A lot of people came, and the venue was as close to "legit" as I'll ever get. Anyway, I'll do a full recap of that soon.

For right now, here's my piece in the Manifest Equality show currently in LA. Its called "Unrequited" and it was actually one of the five contest winners for the show. The show wraps up on the 7th, and if you're in the LA area you should check it out, as its amazing.

So that's two recaps to on my to-do list. This has been such a whirlwind week that I'm just trying to keep up with all of it. Thanks for bearing with me!

Rich Tu x Bombay Sapphire x Tokion Magazine

2010-03-02T12:23:00.023-05:00

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Sup blog, getting it done on a whirlwind schedule this week. Right now I'm in California for the Manifest Equality show, but I'm catching a flight back to NYC early tomorrow morning for my first big collabo with Bombay Sapphire Gin and the great people at Tokion Magazine. The event takes place at The Griffin on 50 Ganservoort St. in NYC (in the meatpacking district). I got to customize a Bombay bottle, and should have some goodies for the guests as well. Please RSVP here. Here are all the details:

The Bombay Sapphire Artisan Series
Rich Tu x Bombay Sapphire x Tokion Magazine
Wednesday, Mar 3, 2010
7pm at The Griffin (50 Gansevoort st (btw Greenwich & Washington)
$10 at door to benefit Russell Simmons "Art For Life" Foundation
Bombay Sapphire cocktails served from 7pm-10pm
RSVP: http://tokion.com/rsvp/richtu

Also, here's a preview courtesy of Matt Okpych's (of Collective Revolution) cell phone cam.

Manifest Equality

2010-02-25T08:15:00.005-05:00

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Heads up, Blog. I recently submitted a piece to Manifest Equality's contest and just found out I'm one of the winners (which is unbelievable). Some of the judges included Shepard Fairey, Ed Ruscha, David Pagel, and even the mayor of Los Angeles. For those who don't know, Manifest Equality is a HUGE show that's going to take place in LA next week that centers on themes like social justice and equality.

As for the piece I'm showing, it's a new one, and I'll wait until the opening to debut it. However, if you're going to be in/near/around LA next week you have to go check it out. Some of the other artists in the show include Ron English, Ted McGrath, Swoon, Harvey Pekar, Gary Baseman, Jayson Atienza and a TON of others.

Fun in the Sun.

Background Noise

2010-02-22T16:43:00.007-05:00

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Sup Blog. My body was hit with a brick called food poisoning on Saturday, and I've just been trying to regather my strength since. In the meantime, here is an all-over print utilizing a background pattern I created the other day for a website gig. It's comprised of a series of seemingly unrelated doodles which include a lightning bolt, bear trap, cloud, cross bones, raindrop, and brass knuckles. Please enjoy... while I go replenish my electrolytes.

The Manhattan (+Brooklyn) Project

2010-02-17T20:01:00.010-05:00

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Hey Blog. This is a piece I just finished for Time Out New York for their Brooklyn vs Manhattan issue. It's a map of the two boroughs that supposes the effects of their connecting bridges collapsing, halting the exchange of people and products between them. It's fairly humorous, and was fun to do because of all the little drawings (and I rarely ever design maps). Each one is numbered and here's a breakdown of what they are.

1. 1 With no more access to Williamsburg, an abandoned neighborhood called FiDi becomes the center of boho chic.
2. Mayor Bloomberg rejoices in the fact that even more commuters are screwed over.
3. All the Chelsea galleries have bare walls because their underpaid artists live in Brooklyn.
4. SNL does a skit about it, and, surprisingly, it’s funny.
5. Manhattan residents lose access to beaches and roller coasters. (They don’t really care.)
6. Upper East Siders ask themselves, What bridges?
7. Brooklynites are partying. What else would they do without a means of getting to work?
8. Brooklyn residents go into ramen withdrawal.
9. Peter Luger has no more customers.
10. The Williamsburg Hipster vs. Murray Hill Douche rivalry finally comes to an end.
11. Cabbies are relieved they no longer have to take fares across any damn bridges anymore.
12. Park Slope parents start worrying how dear little Drake and Taylor will become successful doctors/lawyers without the options of NYU and Columbia.
13. Fast-forward ten years: The ruined anchorages of the Brooklyn Bridge are designated a natural wildlife preserve, over which President Sarah Palin flies on her monthly small-animal hunts.

Also, here are some of my favorite drawings from the map, enjoy.

Wide Open ...or... Third TIme's a Charm

2010-02-08T14:14:00.010-05:00

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What's up Blog? Here's a third piece I executed for Alfa Romeo's 100th anniversary exhibition taking place in Milan, Italy. It's entitled "Wide Open". I did it in lieu of having my second piece rejected, which I actually find more funny than disappointing. Speaking of funny, this piece is the most humorous of the three, but I got really ambitious with some stuff and it's definitely my favorite now. It prints big (135x135cm), so I'm looking forward to seeing it. Also, it shows that it pays to be tenacious.

*update* available for purchase here

Magical Pencil Indeed

2010-02-05T12:56:00.011-05:00

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Ah, it's the end of the week again Blog. I was at The Society of Illustrators for their Jazz & Sketch night last night and greatly enjoyed myself as always. I tried something slightly different from usual and did most of my drawings with a Magic Pencil, which is usually found in high schools and beginner art classes, but is ridiculously fun. Also, if it's good enough for Milton Glaser, it's good enough for me. The above image was actually done on the subway on the way home. The rest are from Jazz & Sketch.

The Illustrated Urban Dictionary pt. 2

2010-02-04T06:42:00.004-05:00

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Sup Blog. Here are two more additions to the Illustrated Urban Dictionary series. Someone close suggested that I do "swagger", which made me laugh. Enjoy.

The Illustrated Urban Dictionary pt. 1

2010-01-29T16:10:00.004-05:00

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Hey there Blog. This week went by at the speed of light. I thought it would have been slower, since Conan is now in exile until September. Anyway, I'm starting a new personal series entitled The Illustrated Urban Dictionary. Basically, I'm cherry picking terms that I like from the Urban Dictionary and illustrating them. It's a great mental exercise and I don't think anyone's done it before (correct me if I'm wrong).

I started out with two random ones (the fact that they both begin with an "F" is a coincidence). Also, I'm not doing it alphabetically, because that would be ridiculous.

This Is About 'Racing'

2010-01-22T11:22:00.006-05:00

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Hello Blog. Here is another piece for the same Alfa Romeo show in Milan, Italy to celebrate their 100th anniversary. I actually started this first, but sat on it for a while before finishing. It's the same size as the previous piece (50" x 77"), except its horizontal. At that size, all the empty space really takes on different vibe. I cant wait to see it on a wall.