VisComedy

Today

2011-09-08T23:18:00.002-05:00

Today feels like the rollercoaster is headed straight down.

Well, at least there is a pool at the bottom.

Music du Jour

2011-07-26T10:09:00.001-05:00

Bon Iver - Skinny Love

The Beatles - She Loves You

Daily Advice

2011-07-12T09:41:00.001-05:00

"You can have anything you want in this world. You just can’t have everything.”

Thanks Lizzie, from Love Your Way!

Boy son

2011-05-03T15:06:00.005-05:00

Two nights ago I dreamt that I had a young son. He was probably about three years old. I felt this overwhelming sense of love for him. We spent the afternoon giggling together.

When I woke up, I knew that it couldn't possibly mean I want a son. Believe me, kids are not on the priority list at this point in my life. After thinking about it at length, I came to this conclusion:

I'm finally loving the life that I've created for myself.

I've been struggling through various challenging things in life over the past--well, extended period of time--and now I'm beginning to feel fulfilled, even proud of the path I'm building. Not everyone believes dreams have true meaning to them. I, however, take great pride in reflecting upon my dreams and what they mean for me. I'm going to seize this one and really go with it. It's time I'm happy with where I'm going.

“That confidence to learn anything is what education ought to be about”

2011-02-23T18:19:00.001-06:00

Dale Dougherty's School of the Future from MindShift on Vimeo.

Found this on Mind/Shift.

Squashing A Modular House

2011-02-23T17:53:00.003-06:00

I guess the most important part of my dream is just about the only thing I remember from it: at the end of running away from some bad guys, I stopped and looked at the building from which they were about to emerge and shoot me. Suddenly, I realized I could take apart the building they were in...because it was modular. So I grabbed each level of the building and stomped on it.

Hmm...

Could this dream reflect a bit of my industrial design class, watching the kids (babysitting) play Mario and finally feeling some relief in this difficult job hunt?

I'm so tired I could fall asleep right now. Its 7pm. I'd be down for another crazy dream.

Beach House | Zebra

2011-02-17T21:55:00.000-06:00

"Zebra" by Beach House has been stuck in my head all day! Fortunately, I'm loving it.

This day was totally gorgeous.

2011-02-17T17:02:00.007-06:00

I learned about the SVA MFA in Interaction Design from a Wash U alum in the Spring '10 graduating class. Katie is totally passionate about improving our educational system. Check it out here. Its quite inspiring.

I stopped to visit a friend at Vitsoe.

New York is so uplifting on a sunny day.

Lagos

2011-02-17T13:56:00.006-06:00

I dreamt I was in a deep blue ocean with my family and Nick. I asked my family where we were, to which they replied "Lagos."
- But I thought we're in South America.
- We are.
Cut to the map of South America, only this time, its got an enormous lake in the middle called "Lagos."

I woke up feeling as blue as the ocean. I wanted to swim through the salty waves and dry out on the rocks.

Note to self

2011-01-15T10:54:00.003-06:00

Pick up a copy of "In a Sunburned Country" by Bill Bryson.

Got it.

Should I Post Again?

2011-01-14T18:01:00.003-06:00

Perhaps post about my nasty cold right now?

Maybe about Nick's play that is going to be at the Edinburgh Fringe Festival?
http://www.indiegogo.com/theNEST

Well, that's done. Go check it out. Consider donating if you've got some cash monies. Thanks!

They Tried To Make Me Go To Rehab

2010-10-25T08:08:00.004-05:00

This summer, my doctor told me it was time to go to rehab. I was completely shocked to hear it. Fortunately, she was diagnosing a balance disorder and referring me to ear rehab. During the winter of '09, I began having "mal de mer" symptoms while sitting at work. It felt like that rocking feeling when you're on a boat. Over the course of several months, the symptoms gradually increased to the point of spontaneous "ground shaking!" I began feeling internal earthquakes at the most random moments-walking across a busy street, eating dinner, at the ICFF. It was like the ground would suddenly wobble super fast in an effort to make me loose my balance. I realized it was time to see a doctor.

Fast forward through some exams to the moment I started VRT (vestibular rehabilitation therapy). Meeting Dr. Laura at The New York Eye and Ear Infirmary was one of the best days of my summer! She has taken such a burden off my shoulders since we began working together. For the past couple months, Dr. Laura has helped me immensely with alleviating the frequent "earthquake" feelings.

You're probably curious what kind of physical therapy goes on in ear rehab. This video I found on YouTube demonstrates one of the first exercises I had to practice. Feel free to try this at home!

Asia style

2009-03-10T07:26:00.002-05:00

I don't have photos to post yet because I'm on a public computer. However, I will be updating once I get back to NY with photos from my trip out here to Hong Kong and Shanghai. So far, I'm enjoying HK. My legs are tired from walking and shop shop shopping today. I must also mention the smog in some parts. URgH! I'll have plenty of photos to prove my travels.

Flower Girl NYC

2009-02-20T17:05:00.003-06:00

For the next couple Fridays, I am freelancing at Flower Girl NYC! They were in the March ELLE magazine. Somewhere near the back of the mag you'll find a little blurb about them.

Here are some pics of the shop. It is located inside of the Earnest Sewn store at the corner of Broome and Orchard.

Sorry the pics are blurry. You can kind of get the idea of the little space I'm working in. It is a good vibe in here. Laid-back with very pretty flowers!

I got to run an order up to the Chelsea Modern, which was a nice little jaunt on a very cold day!

I hope you all have a great Friday evening!

Crazy overheard

2009-02-15T22:34:00.001-06:00

I do some blog-hopping every now and then. Today, I am delighted to have passed across this fine gem:

http://tesslynch.tumblr.com/post/77577383/overheard-at-santa-monica-starbucks

Dirt Candy

2009-02-15T13:48:00.003-06:00

I loved Dirt Candy this week.

Jalapeno Hush Puppies
served with maple butter
Portobello Mousse
fennel pear compote
Crispy Tofu with Green Ragout
kaffir lime beurre blanc
Stone Ground Grits
pickled shitakes and a tempura poached egg

plus wine
I highly recommend Dirt Candy if you love food (and don't feel the need to eat meat in your meal).
YUM.

Galapagos Art Space

2009-02-12T10:46:00.008-06:00

My friend Jennifer Roit is an extremely talented dancer. On February 6, I went to watch her perform Jennifer Archibald's "Sex, Lies and Secrets" at the "For the Love of Art Party" in the Galapagos Art Space (DUMBO Brooklyn).

In the video below, she is the solo dancer in the first 30 seconds.

The dance was fantastic. As soon as Jen started off the dance, the girl next to me exclaimed, "She is fierce!" Fierce she was!

If you've ever been to the Galapagos Art Space, you'll know that the seating area is elevated above water. In the darkness of the evening lighting, its hard to tell you're sitting on little pods elevated above water. I saw one girl dip her foot in the pool trying to figure out if it was an illusion.

Jen was standing right before us, her back to the audience, one leg draped over the railing that keeps you from falling into the water. As the music starts, she slithers under the railing, placing one foot on the stage and over the water. Somehow(!), she twists and turns up onto the stage without falling into the pool. Notice the dark pool between the railing and the stage.

She made crossing that look like a breeze.

Fierce indeed! The girl was fire on stage.

It was only ten minutes, but it was definitely the highlight of the evening.

Super kudos go out to the aerial dancers later on that evening. Check out these photos. Dancing in the air, holding themselves onto the silks...talk about being in shape!

When I Don't Go to Work

2009-02-10T16:21:00.007-06:00

I spend the whole day doodling with pictures. At the end of my "workday," my head is spinning! I should start using a timer, so that I force myself out of my chair every 15 minutes or so. I think I've been sitting for hours. I don't do this anymore and it is quite an awful feeling.

I started my day working on the Annika Rodriguez 10 Year Anniversary commemorate book. I spent so long working on gathering photos that I can't see straight.

Want a photo preview?

That is one of my favorite pictures. She is so happy!

The next goal is to get all the copy for the book ready.

Beirut at BAM

2009-02-10T16:00:00.001-06:00

I did get the chance to watch Beirut at BAM after all! They were excellent and here are videos I found on YouTube of the same day I was there (last Saturday). Thank you to whomever broke the rules and took these videos :)

That is the Vassar College Orchestra playing with them. It's been a long time since I've been to a big concert. This was nice.

Prior to the show we ate at Madiba in Fort Greene. Unfortunately, my camera died and I have no evidence of the excellent meal. Imagine a square of ground beef with a square of rice and raisins. Someday I'll learn to write about food, but for now you'll just have to take my word. It was yummy.

The best part about dinner was that it was a last-second stop. We were planning on another restaurant, but the wait was too long and we were in a hurry. We ran along down the street--Voila!--Madiba! Happy accident. Happy evening.

Happy Chrismahanukwanzaka

2008-12-19T23:47:00.003-06:00

A great gift for the people who love their graphic tees or those who love their city!
GIFTS FOR T-SHIRT LOVERS!

Last Class

2008-12-14T22:11:00.001-06:00

Tomorrow is my last advertising class of the semester and I still haven't figured out what to turn in. Baaaaah!

HAPPY BIRTHDAY!

2008-12-12T13:38:00.001-06:00

Happy Birthday Nick Starr!
You've done it again!

Beirut at BAM

2008-12-12T13:32:00.004-06:00

Unfortunately, the Beirut concert coming up Feb 6 at BAM sold out before the morning was even over. Sad day. Lets check out why its so sad I will not get to see them live.

See how wonderful it could have been?

Annika Rodriguez 10 year reunion!

2008-12-12T12:57:00.002-06:00

The reunion to celebrate 10 years of the Annika Rodriguez Scholars at Washington University in St. Louis is approaching. March 20-22, 2009! I am working on making a book to celebrate the founding and ten years of "Leadership, Scholarship, Service, and Diversity." I've been reading through letters Annika actually wrote while she was in the Peace Corps and when she was a student at Wash U. Reading personal letters from someone who passed away can be a bit eerie.

The point here is: Save the date for the reunion! (If you are an AR scholar/alum, of course.) We will have a weekend full of great events to celebrate our 10 years.

Slava's Snowshow on Broadway

2008-12-07T22:21:00.006-06:00

I had the great opportunity to attend Slava's Snowshow tonight at The Helen Hayes Theatre. It was so beautiful!

Essentially, it was a professional clowning show from Russia. You can see photos and videos online, but I really think the fun lies in the unexpected surprises. I went in without a clue about what I was going to see, except I did notice a sign that mentioned "...audience interaction at your own risk..." and "not responsible for loss or damage." Sounded suspicious. I was bracing myself in case I got picked up and thrown across the stage. Luckily, I was never picked up, and I was not wearing anything that could not get wet ;).

I got this photo off of google, so its not the exact version of what I saw, but it can more or less give you a sense of the experience.

Slava's Snowshow was a collage of beautiful stories told through movement and facial expression that transcended language. If there is anyone with a vivid imagination, it must be Slava's team. They created an encompassing sensory experience through the layering of sound with rich colors and textures. I wanted to float away into the snowy dream world that surrounded me. Part of me wanted the show to go on and on and on. Alas, just 90 minutes of laughter and fantasy. I walked away feeling like I should be able to fly home.

I felt like a kid again.

(P.S. I was pretty excited to see Joseph-Gordon Levitt in the audience. More importantly though, it was my first Broadway show ever! Big thanks to Melinda. I loved it!)

Quick update

2008-12-04T15:03:00.005-06:00

Since I've been predictably bad about updating, heres a quick peek at my life lately:

I left The Park Florist in September.
I am still taking continuing education classes at The School of Visual Arts.
This summer I was studying motion graphics, this fall I studied advertising for the first time.
I learned that I really like working on advertising. (I still love flowers too.)
I work for Jean-Georges Vongerichten at Matsugen.
I like working with people so directly in the restaurant business.
I'm working on an advertising portfolio.

I have an interview for another floral job tomorrow!

On the sad side, there have been a lot of layoffs in the city and with people in my immediate circle, so I'm trying my best to hold on to whatever work I can get. Here's a peek at my new flickr site:

VISIT MY FLICKR SITE!

Sick productivity

2008-12-04T14:46:00.002-06:00

I'm sick and staying home from work today, so I've managed to update my linkedin account and build my fickr site. Isn't being sick a productive way to get so much done? It is for me!

VISIT MY FLICKR SITE!

Synecdoche

2008-10-26T23:03:00.005-05:00

I have to say I am thoroughly disappointed with this movie. What a shame, huh? I got bored halfway through when I stopped caring about the protagonist. I lost interest in "Caden Cotard" (played by the very talented Philip Seymour Hoffman) once he decided to replicate his life inside an enormous warehouse. There were so many brilliant actors and a fantastic screenwriter, but it was out of control. It felt like I was watching a theatrical piece on film, and the metaphors were becoming more and more inaccessible by the minute. Someone please edit the movie! It was just too much for me. I don't recommend it. Perhaps I am too impatient or unsophisticated to enjoy Charlie Kaufman's latest masterpiece. However, my own opinion doesn't mean you won't enjoy the intensely depressing Caden and his unraveling life.

By this point in the movie (see photo below), I was feeling sick and desperately wanted the movie to end. See all those notes on the table? That's how the movie felt. Infinite. Unending!

(I found this photo on Google images. Sorry to whomever it belongs!)

Man Bites World

2008-10-19T15:16:00.005-05:00

While I was in LA, I had the pleasure of meeting Noah Galuten. Yes, the one and only Noah Galuten himself!

Although I doubt any of you have heard of Noah, I am a closet fan of his. Noah lives in LA and is going around the world through the cuisine of LA. Essentially, every day he goes out to eat a meal from a different country. I think the goal is at least 80?
MAN BITES WORLD

Pretty much the only reason I even knew Noah existed was thanks to ALL KINDS OF YUM. I guess I'm kind of a closet fan to a couple different blogs. I usually daydream about being with these people on their eating adventures...
AND I WAS! It was just one night, but one very great night.

Above is a slice of Jason's face, Jackie (GirlfriendBites), Noah (ManBites), Dave, Nick, and Tannaz! Is Tannaz winking or trying to get the last of her drink?

DAY 33: Canada (at The Alibi Room)
~An evening of poutine~
Honestly, the food looked like it was just too much. Noah looked like he was really trying to make it through to the end. I didn't try the poutine because it was cold by the time I realized what was going on. "Ooooh! So this is Noah and this is the Canada night? Yes, this calls for a bite, but I just ate a huge burger."
Here is the crazy aftermath:

I was thrilled to be spending time in the same room as Noah and Tannaz on my last night in LA! It felt like that should have been just the beginning of my trip, but alas, I was to head home the very next day. I had such a great time hanging out with Nick's LA crew. I think the energy and enthusiasm (for life and food!) from everyone was infectious. I may just have to find some poutine here in NY in order to recreate the spirit of the evening. We'll see if I can handle the challenge.

Pacifico and Chocolate Room

2008-10-18T14:32:00.006-05:00

I joined some friends for dinner at Pacifico (Pacific and Smith in Brooklyn) the other night. I had always wondered how the food was there. It looks a little kitschy, but fun from the outside. Like a fake California-Mexican restaurant...or what this Midwestern girl imagines Mexican restaurants to look like on California beaches. I had the pork bbq with pineapple burger. Tasty and too much. I don't think I can eat as much meat as I used to. The yuka fries were nice and crunchy!

The evening was dominated by a discussion about California vs. NYC Mexican cuisine. Every single CA resident (present or past) always hammers me with claims the NYC comes nowhere near the taste and authenticity of Mexican food in California. I'm finally giving up and letting them win.

Jen had...Oh I forget, but she liked it.

Off to The Chocolate Room for some dessert! I was already way too full, but I chose the Cafe Torino. Bittersweet hot chocolate with a shot of espresso. If you know me, you know I'm naturally caffeinated. Lets just say the espresso helped me get through a nice chunk of reading that night. The Cafe Torino was rich, creamy, and had a delicious espresso kick!

Last Farmer's Market

2008-10-18T13:36:00.007-05:00

I'm enjoying the comforts of this cold apartment too much to go to the market today. But just for kicks, let me show you how much fun I had last Saturday on my first trip.

This is my sister's dog riding with us to the market.

That's right. He gets to ride in the shopping cart. He's probably thinking "Ahhh, this is the life!"

This is the delicious feast that came from the market. Not only was my total bill for the day $30, I got so much food you wouldn't believe. So much good food! This is only the tip of the iceberg.

Sweet corn with sauteed spinach, tomatoes, mashed potatoes, and whole wheat bread. All yummy.

First Farmer's Market!

2008-10-11T10:31:00.004-05:00

So, I am no longer working at The Park Florist in Brooklyn. It was good times while it lasted, but I find that I have to keep myself moving in order to challenge myself. I'm going to the Grand Army Plaza market right now to buy some flowers. Hopefully I'll get enough to put together a nice arrangement to add to my portfolio :).

Let's take a look at a nice arrangement of fall colors:

Now, off to my first Grand Army Plaza Farmer's Market experience! I have been here an entire year and have yet to go. Shaaaaame. Is it a valid excuse that I used to work every single Saturday? I think so.

I am hoping to pick up some great flowers AND a nice cart full of local food. I am going to make dinner tonight for the first time in months. Ahhh! I will finally work on my culinary skills, if only a little and at the expense of my boyfriend and friends.

The City of Angels!

2008-10-10T16:33:00.010-05:00

I just spent a fantastic, long weekend in Los Angeles.

The weekend began with a rehearsal dinner at Valentino Restaurant in Santa Monica. I chose the braised veal shank "L'Ossobucco" and was so overwhelmed with the richness of the meat that my vegetarian boyfriend swapped my dish for his fish! He figured he was already eating meat, so why not take the plunge? Both dishes were excellent, but having grown accustomed to more veggies and less meat these days, I couldn't stomach the gamey taste of red wine-soaked lamb. The swap for the "Branzino" (Mediterranean seabass) was right on point. The night ended with an assortment of Italian desserts: cannoli, a rich chocolate cake, and tiramisu. My palate was having a feast!

The wedding took place at the amazing Bel-Air Bay Club which was up on a hill overlooking the Pacific ocean.

Aside from the traditional wedding fare, the night even included a "Let's Be Frank" hot dog stand, a professional photo "booth," and a candy bar.

It is no exaggeration to say the event was spectacular.

Sunday morning I woke up ready to go for yet another evening of food, fun, and fabulous company. Luckily, there were already plans for a private tour of the Bernini exhibit at The Getty followed by yet another delicious feast in the Getty restaurant. I was absolutely spoiled this weekend! I had no clue what to expect at The Getty. Riding up the tram to the museum, I could see Los Angeles begin to appear in the background between the hills. Once the doors opened at the top, I felt as if I had stepped out into an angelic, white stone expanse.

The sheer volume of the architecture caught me off guard, but what amazed me even more was the openness of the space between the buildings. The number of courtyards and the huge, public gathering spaces was something I am no longer used to living in New York. It felt like I had walked out of the tram and into a black and white Fellini where everything was sunny, calm, and humans were eclipsed by the landscape.

Ok, so really, I just love "8 1/2" and the Getty looks absolutely nothing like this movie. However, I can't deny that something triggered Fellini for me. Probably just that feeling of the vastness of space.

The sights from the Getty are unbelievable. I was thrilled to be able to see so much city and so many mountains from one point. Last but not least, the gardens were quite the treat. Its such an experience to descend from between the mountains that are the Getty walls and into the labyrinth. It is somehow so soothing. It doesn't hurt that the weather was gorgeous and I sometimes forget what it is to feel like there is something other than buildings and cityscape in this world.

New Direction

2008-08-29T19:49:00.003-05:00

I've been out in Manhattan pounding the pavement for two days. I'm in the process of taking my life in a new direction. I'm hoping that the blisters and sore muscles are going to pay off.
Weeks ago, I began putting together my floral portfolio in the hopes of finding new work that can teach me more and take me in a new direction. In the past two days, I've shown my work to eleven different florists and stopped by a few more that were closed. I had my plan of attack all mapped out, my resumes printed, and my smile polished up. My impromptu meetings – none of them knew I was coming – seemed promising, but I am always cautious about getting my hopes up.
I've found that I would really prefer to work at one of the floral studios that specializes in event work. I'm looking to really go far beyond the responsibilities I am currently given. I am ready to get away from my duties as a sales girl and really build a career as a freelancer or full-time in the event sector. I want bigger and better opportunities!
Tired as I am, tomorrow is another day in my current floral job. I feel so much more relieved and hopeful about my future. The anxiety is slowly lifting. I will find a good professional match and move up and out...

Glorious Return!

2008-08-26T09:47:00.004-05:00

What a blog slacker I've been! Now, on to the good new stuff!

Here's a snippet of my creations as of late.
This is protea with coxcomb and chincherinche. Great fall colors.

A nice little summer bouquet.

Callas and roses.

I got it for my momma!

2008-05-05T22:10:00.004-05:00

If you don't know what to get your Mom for Mother's Day, but you don't want to get her a vase of flowers...

I really like the work done by "Art Department." If I had my own space to decorate, I would love to put fun little pieces like this in it:

How great would it be to have some of these botanical themed tiles in a bathroom?

Flower rings

2008-05-02T11:59:00.007-05:00

I like to play around with the flowers that are not worthy of being sold. In other words, they're no longer fresh. I took this itty bitty white ranunculus and a gorgeous orange poppy, turning them both into rings. The downside was that the flowers were both falling apart to begin with, so they didn't last very long into the evening. I'd like to find a way to make these real flower rings stay fresh and durable. If I can do that, maybe I can start selling them.

First Floral Arrangement

2008-05-02T11:01:00.012-05:00

This week has been particularly slow at work. We had some leftover flowers from a wedding and there was nothing for me to really do. I decided to take the leftovers and practice floral arranging. I had been reading up on techniques for vase arrangements and thought some of it seemed simple enough for me to master. So, I took the leftover pieces, a vase, and got to work. I didn't use any tape grid on the vase. I want to learn to put together arrangements without a grid in place. At first, my work was a little clunky because I didn't think I had the right to cut down the flowers. Luckily, Jose took a look and said, "Actually, this is not bad if we cut some of them down." Yes! I got approval to cut the stems! With a little snip here and there, I put on the finishing touches and voila! Here is my first vase arrangement.

First arrangement. (Sorry this is sideways...can't figure out how to fix it.)

Take a close look.

My head is happily floating beside the arrangement.

Out on the table for display. Will anyone buy it?

I was so happy with my work that I wanted to eat it!

Sun Jar

2008-04-29T09:42:00.005-05:00

I am consumed with delight lately. Here is something I saw on the last page of the April 2008 Domino magazine:
SUN JAR

Amazing! I want one.

The Awesome Dance

2008-04-25T10:04:00.005-05:00

I just have to write today because I want you all to go see my boyfriend's play this weekend. Only tonight and tomorrow are left. Late notice, sorry!

The Awesome Dance – NEW! Original work!
by Nick Starr
directed by Malinda Sorci
with Jenni Bannerjee, Ross Beshear, Julie Cavaliere, Rachel Cornish

Held @:
The New School for Drama Theater
152 Bank St.
3rd Floor
New York City

Free general admission!
Reservations recommended.
For reservations, please call Ticket central at 212-279-4200 or visit www.ticketcentral.com

The show begins @ 8pm tonight (4/25) and shows tomorrow @ 3pm & 8pm (Sat 4/25).

I had the chance to watch "The Awesome Dance" last night. I was honestly impressed. Nick's writing was brilliant and original. It was a bit reminiscent of Steve Martin's ability to mix witty and spiritual with insanity. The actors' sense of timing was right on point and their range was really impressive. The energy of the actors was certainly well received by the audience. Throughout the entirety of the play, the audience was hysterical with laughter and intermittent gasps of fear. So, if you have the chance, come out tonight or tomorrow! You will be rolling with laughter and a little more enlightened. I promise you will not be disappointed.

A little bit of this

2008-04-15T16:53:00.004-05:00

Working at the florist has been wonderful so far. I spend most of my days cleaning the flowers, cleaning the store, watering the plants, answering customer questions, taking orders, wrapping up arrangements...not particularly thrilling work on the surface, but I really love my job.

On occasion, I get to practice making floral arrangements. Pretty exciting stuff. Someone might come into the store and after browsing the fridge's contents for a moment, turn to me asking, "Could I have a small bouquet made?" I could confidently answer, "Certainly!" I can put together some gorgeous bouquets, you see.

I wish I had my camera the other day when I made one that was $75. The first attempt took forever and was fugly to the max. However, I restarted and put together a piece I was really proud to sell. It had some gorgeous hypericum, a few tulips, roses, freesia, and lilac...if I remember correctly. It was hot and sold instantaneously!

I am doing well with choosing colors and flower combinations, but I'm still struggling with the physical handling of the bouquets. I'm not letting that stop me though. I'm having so much fun working here and I can feel floral proficiency in my near future. Soon enough, I will be the one discussing what to put together for wedding centerpieces, etc. Hahaha. I love it!

Oh, and just for kicks. I must tell you about celebrity spottings. Do you know Lorna Simpson? It was kinda blah outside and she came in here looking for something "beautiful to have around after a frustrating day on the computer." We also got an order from Adriana Lima a few weeks ago! Actually, her assistant called on her behalf...
Unrelated to the flower shop, but still exciting, I finally saw Jennifer Connelly. Twice in one week at the gym. I was accidentally staring at her because she was between me and the mirror. She must have sensed someone staring her down, because, to my horror, she slowly turned towards me..."Oh my god! That's Jennifer Connelly staring back at me!" Monday, when I saw her walking to the gym I didn't bat an eye. Jennifer Connelly. Yeah. Cool.

Employed

2008-03-20T22:15:00.005-05:00

I am officially a full-time employee of The Park Florist here in Brooklyn, NY. I start my job as apprentice on Monday. That's not my official title, but I've decided that will really be my position. I've been hired to learn how to do everything from running the business to arranging flowers. However, I've been warned that it's not "all glamorous. It's work." I'm really excited about learning and getting paid. If all goes well, I will be working there for a full year, learning all the seasons of the flowers. I will certainly start blogging about what I learn as time goes on.

Queen (100th Post!)

2008-03-19T09:35:00.008-05:00

Today, I am remembering how much I love Queen's music. I finally see why people thought Queen was way too shocking for his day. I've always loved the music and Freddie Mercury's voice. My impression of Freddie Mercury has always been based upon the sound of his voice and the one photo I vividly remember of him. Growing up, we had a cd of Freddie Mercury and Monserrat Caballé called Barcelona. Even though we had Queen's Greatest Hits and other cds, I always envisioned him as this singer in a tuxedo.

Ok, I had probably seen some photo of the band on a t-shirt somewhere along the way.

Yet, it never really hit me that Freddie's wasn't exactly socially acceptable. He sure wasn't the tuxedo kind of guy I imagined...

So, here is another post that's really just for kicks. Enjoy!

One of my personal favorites...wonderfully wild!

NYTimes Julia

2008-03-17T11:24:00.007-05:00

Congratulations Julia!

NYTimes original link.

(Julia Kuo's illustration published in the March 17, 2008 travel section of the NYTimes.)

Hoppy St. Patty's Day

2008-03-17T00:15:00.010-05:00

I should try to live green today. Design green today. Eat green today. Drink green today.

In the spirit of green, I am posting a photo of the beer label I designed for Schlafly, The Saint Louis Brewery. I guess its hard to see in this photo, but I drew the label by hand. It gives it a slightly more "local," microbrewery feel than the other Schlafly label next to it. I made this back in the summer of 2006, but it wasn't on shelves until Schlafly's 15th anniversary in November 2006. I can't believe time flies so quickly!

This photo is of my green beer label in the Schnucks in Clayton, MO. Ahhh...if only they sold Schlafly here in Brooklyn. Schlafly could definitely give these local breweries a run for their money. Hoppy St. Patrick's Day!

HIRING - Freelance Blogger

2008-03-15T18:03:00.004-05:00

www.viscomedy.blogspot.com is looking to hire a freelance blogger. Projects will begin as soon as Monday, March 16. Candidates must be skilled in working for free and under tight deadlines. Knowledge of the blogging process—thinking, typing, and posting—are a must. The ideal candidate will have a strong background in Spooftiquing. If you feel you are qualified for this position, please send resumé and sample writing portfolio.

Don't delay because this is a great opportunity!

NYTimes tomorrow!

2008-03-15T18:00:00.002-05:00

Remember to go out and buy the NYTimes tomorrow! Julia Kuo will have an illustration in the travel section. Don't forget!!!

Man of La Mancha

2008-03-12T22:08:00.003-05:00

I just had my audition for Man of La Mancha tonight. My natural tendency is to over-analyze everything in my life. However, when it comes to auditions...I try my hardest to block them out almost immediately. Perhaps that is completely counterproductive for my learning process. If I start to think over my audition, I inevitably:
1) Walk down the street thinking about where I got my intentions wrong, mumbling my lines, and reenacting them like a crazy person. I guess that doesn't really stand out too much in NY. Then, I just get really bummed out.
2) I get really excited thinking about how well something went...and then nothing happens.
I suppose that's the really pessimistic outlook on auditioning. It's not my cup of tea. Not yet?

Coming Soon: Fuente Studio!

2008-03-11T22:08:00.004-05:00

Over the past few months, Fountain of Youth Productions has been changing rapidly. A lot of work is going on behind-the-scenes. Most of what has pertained to me lately is the re-branding of FOY into...Fuente Studio! We decided that "Fountain of Youth Productions" was not working on many levels. It was time to simplify our work from the ground up. Alba, Richie, and I are now operating "Fuente Studio."

We've had so many projects going on over the past few months that there has been little time to work on our own branding. Now, I'm really buckling down to get it set in stone. I'm looking forward to finally, finally, finally (!) being able to post the logo for Fuente Studio. I can't wait!

Room Revamp

2008-03-09T16:53:00.002-05:00

Most of today's work has consisted of helping around the house. My sister is a master of small space with big storage and nice design. Her secret: lots of work. So, I've been carrying cinder blocks, cutting paper, and passing the hammer...I will try to remember to post the results when its done.

Book Clubbing

2008-03-09T16:45:00.005-05:00

Yesterday, I spent many hours at the airport waiting for my friend to arrive. I decided that was the perfect time to pick up a new book. Unfortunately, I didn't have any idea what book to buy. I've realized I'm really out of the loop when it comes to good books. Really, when it comes to any good literature...I have no clue. Fiction, non-fiction, magazines...
I finally chose Ann Patchett's "Bel Canto."

So, would you like to contribute and suggest anything good you've read lately?
Feel free to comment and help me kick-start my reading revival.

Julia Kuo is Amazing

2008-03-08T10:22:00.005-06:00

I have a pre-emptive: Congratulations, Julia!

The ever-impressive Julia Kuo is going to have an illustration in the NYTimes travel section on Sunday, March 16th. Write it in your planners. I did. There's no way I'm missing out on having a copy. Not only will she be a published NYTimes illustrator beginning March 16th (this is certainly just the beginning), but here's where I flip out even more:
The art director spotted her in American Illustration and called her for the job. Julia, you are a rockstar!

Here's one of my favorite Julia pieces. One of many that I love:

Friday Night Round-Up

2008-03-07T23:41:00.006-06:00

I am an official part of the Rooftop Films Screening Committee! I find this really thrilling. I get to sit back and watch movies...and help decide who gets into the festival and who doesn't. So, if you're a filmmaker, be nice to me :) I plan on starting up on the viewings tomorrow...we'll see what gems I find.

I finally watched "Once" tonight. I'm light-years behind everyone. I know. My verdict: lovely. I don't love only one particular genre or tone of movies, but today's selection was just perfect. Today's tone was: gentle realism. I really appreciate that the "guy" and "girl" were complicated people making difficult choices and we don't always know what is going on in their minds. I like the simplicity of the dialogue. I enjoyed that it was so intimately tied to the main characters and not a bunch of big-movie drama. My love for big-movie drama is another entry...think all Roberto Benigni movies. (Ahhh!)

Flamenco this week went moderately well (for those of you wondering). I was getting the combinations correct when they started on the right, but as soon as I switched to the left--BAM!--lost connection. It kinda got worse as class went on...ahh redobles! I haven't been as good about practicing this week. I need to pull out my iPod and get to work (while my neighbors are not home-or we'll get kicked out of here). Things are getting really hectic these days. I have so much on my plate that I never know where to start.

Med School Funnies

2008-03-07T09:44:00.003-06:00

Just 'cause I bet most of you didn't click the link to the Myspace Music pages (its through their names, not photos - sorry!), I have to post a highlight:

Oyin - Stop Frontin

Add to My Profile | More Videos

I Pug You.

2008-03-07T09:33:00.002-06:00

Aw, Caitlin. I miss you!

Side note. Apparently, the role of Fermina in Man of La Mancha is now, "Seeking an experienced belly dancer." Oh, I better learn...fast!!!

Deitch

2008-03-06T06:41:00.003-06:00

Quick post before I go to work. I would really like to make it to the Michel Gondry exhibit at the Deitch before it closes. Has anyone already gone? I would like to know if anyone has gone or is going...

Friends on Myspace Music

2008-03-05T12:28:00.010-06:00

I should have done this a while ago. Two of my friends have started up their own Myspace Music pages. Check them out and rock out at:

The Liquid Substance Cerebral Buck Dance Music Party

Oyin

I can't discuss this without plugging my talented sister as well:
Alba Ponce de León

Budding Talent: Part I

2008-03-04T23:16:00.017-06:00

I finally went back to editing Part I in a series of small videos I want to make about upcoming talent. I filmed this short video of Julia Kuo and Morgan Schweitzer, two artists in my graduating class at Washington University in St. Louis, way back in November 2007. Julia and Morgan were attending the American Illustrators After Party, so I wanted to catch up with them and make a short clip about who they are, where they are going, and what inspires them. Julia currently works at American Greetings, but was attending the American Illustrators reception because she was being honored! Check out Morgan's blog as well because you'll find his Maxim illustrations and other professional work (all of it is great.)

I hope to keep meeting up with my classmates from WashU to make more clips about their up-and-coming artistic pursuits. I know many of us are around the NY area, so I will do my best to start making this series a larger priority. It would be a shame to look back on this in a few years and think "Oh, why didn't I interview them?" Hmmm...I guess having a camera would have helped!

On that note, I need to thank Rooftop Films for loaning me the best camera I've ever laid my hands on. YouTube and iMovie did not do justice to the beautiful equipment they loaned me. Next time, I will also need to learn to use the mic properly. Of course, I have to thank Julia and Morgan for their willingness to step in front of the camera and talk about themselves. You were both great.

This was a bit of an experiment considering I had never really conducted an interview. Add in the crowd, the noise, the lighting, and the weight of lifting the camera above me in order to be level with Morgan (I was on my toes), and it was a learning experience! I wish the YouTube quality were better and I had a nice editing program because it was frustrating to feel so confined by my lack of technology. I really dislike iMovie so much. There were so many visual and audio improvements that I was itching to make, but alas. Something is better than nothing. If anybody has any tips for improving the web quality or where I can find a nice editing program for a decent price, please share. Let's hope the experiment turned out worthwhile!

New Series: Spooftique

2008-03-04T15:32:00.003-06:00

I'm going to try writing a new series within my blog titled "Spooftique." Since I'm a critical -- but silly -- person this might just be the perfect writing style for me. We'll see how it evolves and flourishes (or not).

I'm actually not starting the series today. Writing it down makes it a bit of a promise though, so I figured this would be a bit of a nudge to keep me on track. Speaking of which, I still need to post the Julia and Morgan video. I WILL.

But for now, a comparison of two musicians singing two very different songs with the same title. I wasn't sure how to Spooftique this, so I'm just posting for you to consider.

"Jolene" - Ray LaMontagne

"Jolene" - Jeremy Fisher

Really, I'm a Ray fan. However, my friend is a Jeremy Fisher fan. I thought it was great that our separate musicians have a title in common.

Music When I Should be Sleeping

2008-03-03T22:52:00.006-06:00

Recent musical discoveries (for me). How do you feel about these songs?
"Foundations" - Kate Nash

A little too much teenage angst, un-sung lyrics, and bubble-gum visuals for my taste. However, there are some catchy moments in Kate Nash's musical stylings.
"We Used to Vacation" - Cold War Kids

"New Soul" - Yael Naim

"Mind's Eye" - Josh Ritter

Thanks for the new music friends!

Weekend Update

2008-03-03T09:34:00.010-06:00

This past Friday I had a 2nd round interview with Humanscale for the position of Jr. Graphic Designer. I have no clue whether or not it will be mine, but I am pleased to know I am one of the last 3 standing. It is reassuring to know that even if I don't get the job offer, I am certainly capable of accomplishing what I want.

Thursday, I went to see my friend, Jennifer Roit, perform with Nathan Trice/RITUALS. The work was a part of the 92 Street Y Harkness Dance Festival. The Harkness Festival is still going for two more weeks at the Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater. The NYTimes did not give it much praise:
http://www.nytimes.com/2008/03/01/arts/dance/01hark.html?ref=dance
However, I really enjoyed the show. I was a big fan of the last part in "Bottom of a Kiss Floating." I wanted to be on the stage...to be a part of the push and pull between the two main dancers and the rest of the ensemble. I'm no dance critic, but I can tell you I had a great time watching it!

On the topic of dance...Prior to Christmas, I saw the wonderful “Fräulein Maria” at Joe's Pub. My friend's sister, Carolyn Cryer, was performing. It was so full of energy and really a hoot to watch. The NYTimes liked it too!
http://www.nytimes.com/2007/12/14/arts/music/14elki.html?_r=1&fta=y&oref=slogin
So, if you're in NY around X-mas time next year, go to “Fräulein Maria!”
Carolyn was also just in "Gene Pool."
http://www.nytimes.com/2008/02/25/arts/dance/25pool.html?ref=dance
I didn't get to see that show, which is a shame because I want to see the DNA dancers. I've been considering taking ballet lessons at DNA, but I don't have the means for that yet.

Tonight, I return to my 6th lesson of flamenco with Andrea del Conte. I've been practicing my combinations, trying to get them to the point where they are muscle memory. I read Esmeralda Santiago's "The Turkish Lover" this week and was inspired by her ability to tap into a tranquil, focused place when she dances. Let's hope that tonight I can find that place because last week my focus was breaking. My brain-to-foot connection was completely off. It should have been embarrassing, but I had a good laugh afterwards. What could I do? The rhythm was just not flowing through me...I could only look to the future. No pressure today! (Ahh! I put a good deal of pressure on myself to perform well.)

I think my recent flamenco revival will help me prepare for auditioning for "Man of La Mancha" next week. The show will be held at Gallery Players. I'm trying out for the role of Fermina, which requires singing and belly dancing. I don't know how to belly dance...yet! I'm sure I can figure it out quickly. So, now I am on a mission to prepare myself for the audition. If you have any good ideas for songs that are in the style of "Man of La Mancha," please drop me a line.

Preparation = Relaxation = Focus

Stolen Hours

2008-02-19T20:13:00.005-06:00

I went to a free lecture here in Brooklyn for small business owners. I won't get into details about who put it on for the sake of being polite (but it was by someone who did not hire me—thankfully). It was awful. One of those events where you feel that the past hours of your life were sucked out of you. Ahh! Someone in the audience asked, "Ok, so, say I wanna sell Gucci shoes on eBay, but I don't have Gucci shoes. I wanna resell them. Can I do that?"

Way too many weird things happened that I can laugh/cringe about:
- Crazy old man was taking pictures of the LAMEST lecture with a disposable camera.
- Man asking about Gucci shoes.
- Witnessing how people really want to make a quick buck and don't care about dignity in the process.
- Woman next to me breast feeding her baby...for 50% of the time.

I have to find a better way of reflecting on tonight's situation:
I got to go out for a walk. I saw that people can be good. A man had some medical emergency and the other passengers stepped up to help. I had some cheese and celery.

Despite the good thoughts, I'm pretty sure there is nothing that will give me back the part of my soul that was wasted tonight.

Strong Visualization Skills

2008-02-19T11:13:00.002-06:00

As bizarre as these things may sound, there is a scientific rationale for cueing users during REM sleep. “REM-sleep dreams are much more visual,” said Matthew P. Walker, the director of the Sleep and Neuroimaging Laboratory at the University of California, Berkeley, and a former assistant professor of psychology at the Harvard Medical School. “They have a strong narrative that runs through them. They’re hallucinogenic.”

There are several reasons for this, including that the lateral prefrontal cortex, the part of the brain involved in logical reasoning and working memory, becomes more inactive during REM sleep, while other areas of the brain, like the visual and emotional centers, rev up.

Psychologists who study lucid dreaming do not know why some people need more help triggering full lucidity than others, though they agree that adept lucid dreamers are excellent at remembering dreams. Dr. Gackenbach said they tend to have strong visualization and spatial skills. They can look at a machine and envision how the parts work inside, she said, or sew a dress from scratch and know exactly what the finished frock will look like. Many practice meditation.
_____
I found this article so long ago, I can't remember who to quote/reference. Sorry!

Christian Dior

2008-02-15T07:58:00.009-06:00

Wow. I have a job at Christian Dior! I signed up with a headhunter (finally) and I have a job (finally). I am going to be a part-time office assistant in HR. No design, but at least I'll be involved with the creative industry. Essentially, I am really excited and really relieved. I'm just hoping this doesn't turn into another disillusionment. I doubt it will, but you just never know...Did I ever mention I wasn't actually hired by Tribeca? Yeah...that's a good story...that would probably be good not to share online.

Now that I'm going to work at Dior, the really big question is:
What am I going to wear?!

I might have a part-time Designer gig with Weill Cornell Medical College. Its silly, but the only thing that might ruin my chances is that they use Publisher as their design program. Hmm, I am absolutely positive I can pick up Publisher quickly. However, I can't lie to them and say I have used it before. I'm hoping my honesty pays off and they hire me anyway. Please? Or am I supposed to learn to lie? I said, "No no no." I'm going to channel the positive energy instead.

Valentine's Day

2008-02-14T15:05:00.004-06:00

Happy Valentine's Day!
In honor of everyone who is a part of my wonderful life:

Thank you for being my friends :)

Crazy Week

2008-02-13T15:27:00.006-06:00

The past two weeks have been a rollercoaster. On the low end, I received very bad news that one of my best friends has lost his mother. I am going to miss her a lot. On the top end, I did my first project with WET. I had a great time making the WET 2008 LOVE Benefit program. I don't have a printed version yet, but here is my little pdf version of my favorite page. The awesome LOVE logo and imagery were created by designer Silvia Minguzzi. I came on to this project to create the layout and program design. I know centered things are not worthy of mention among designers, but this program is too cute! I'm looking forward to building a relationship with the WET team.

I'm also working with my sister on a logo for a storage company in Hong Kong. I can't post those until, well, until its legal.
For those of you wondering, I might still move to Hong Kong later this year. I keep having mixed feelings over that...we'll see what happens.

There are a lot of positive changes happening over here in Brooklyn. For one, Fountain of Youth Productions is undergoing a re-haul of our branding! We decided we need to clean up many things from the ground up...starting with our group name. Can I tell you the new name yet? I should probably consult first.

WET

2008-01-29T21:01:00.000-06:00

Another freelance job! This time with WET.

This is going to be amazing. WET = Women's Expressive Theater. Their mission:
"...developing, producing and promoting innovative, non-niched, female-generated work in theater, film, television and education. THE PROBLEM: Women in the United States are under-represented and often misrepresented in the entertainment industry - an industry that creates and defines our culture and has global influence."
They work with a wonderful and talented group of women, including Olympia Dukakis, Anna Deavere Smith, Adrienne Shelly, Frances McDormand, Mary-Louise Parker, Audra McDonald, Kerry Washington, Joyce Carol Oates, Ally Sheedy...and the list goes on (plus some great men as well).

I get to design the program for the upcoming fundraiser, "Love." It looks like a talent-packed event. In the future, I might be assisting the web designer...baby steps!
Needless to say, I am thrilled! I get to work with these incredible women and be a part of something I consider truly important.

Holiday Card

2008-01-23T16:00:00.000-06:00

Although, the holiday has long past, thought I'd share a card my sister and I put together for our family and friends this holiday season. You just have to imagine it folded.

Tribeca Film Festival

2008-01-22T19:45:00.000-06:00

I have many things to write about, but I think I should take them one day at a time. Today's big news: my new freelance job with Tribeca Film Festival!

I am going to be designing a 400 page film catalogue! Design + Film = Perfect
Wouldn't it be great if I got to meet Robert De Niro? Jajaja...I can always dream.

Tons

2008-01-18T16:21:00.000-06:00

I have so much to post! I'll be back soon with some really fun things for you to enjoy while you should be working instead :)

The Marf

2008-01-16T00:34:00.000-06:00

The scarf is a fashion accessory every man must have. Man+ Scarf ="The Marf"

2007 wrap-up/2008 preview

2008-01-11T02:04:00.000-06:00

I'm going to try to make this concise.

Since I last posted, major events:
-Brendan James' "The Sun Will Rise" was aired on Private Practice the evening of December 5
-Finished my Internship with Rooftop Films. I really enjoyed working with my colleagues and redesigning some of their marketing materials. Much to my own surprise, I relish the "mundane" grant researching and office duties. Goodbye Rooftop!

-KeshiaCrosby.com graphics and video production. Its a never-ending, but very fulfilling job. The site is still in production.
-My friend Julia Kuo has work published in CMYK this month! Go get it quick! She's in the Illustration portion. You will be quite impressed with her work.

-I am once again dancing: Flamenco!
I am taking lessons with Andrea Del Conte and loving it.

Mike Deller

2007-11-14T14:52:00.000-06:00

Heeeeey! Today is a good day for all the natives of Carbondale. I'm skipping over previous posts that I've been meaning to put up because this is so exciting.

Carbondale's very own Mike Deller is a musician over here in NY. His music is featured as the beat in Jay-Z's new video "Roc Boys (And The Winner Is...)" That funky groove is his own creation ladies and gentlemen! Those of you who know me, know how much I rave about my hometown. Who says the Dale isn't great? I beg to differ...

P.S. This song is in American Gangster's sountrack.
P.P.S. Like that funky groove? Check out the band he usually plays with: The Budos Band. They were on The Rolling Stone's website last week. He's the one to the left wearing the yellow plaid. What a good month for Mike. :)

Week-ola

2007-11-09T18:12:00.001-06:00

Indeed, this week has been quite eventful. It's not even done yet! Last Sunday, I went with Fashion Stylist, Keshia Crosby, on a shopping trip with her client. Both she, the lady she was styling, and her sister were really fun, and I had a great time documenting the event. A video is being made and will be posted on www.keshiacrosby.com once the website is revamped. I've been working on my own website...patience, patience...it is slow, but steady. Rooftop Films has kept me busy working on some logo fixer-uppers and grant research.
Thursday evening, I had the thrill of hanging out with some college friends who are leading very successful lives as artists. John Hendrix, one of our college professors, was also attending the event. John is a very respected illustrator with work appearing in the top editorials (think Rolling Stone, The New Yorker) and amongst the best (He received a silver medal from the Society of Illustrators). One of my former classmates, Julia Kuo, was in NY for an American Illustrators event.

Her work is being published! Yes, she is officially on her way to joining the ranks of the elite illustrators. Morgan Schweitzer was also on hand for the festivities and mingling. You must check out his really incredible work.
Make sure you peek at both of their blogs. They are probably making some jaw-dropping work as you read this. In fact, both are being published in Creative Quarterly 9. Congratulations! Since I had the chance to meet up with them, I thought it would be fun to make a small video of the evening. A "meet the up-and-coming" look at two impressive illustrators making their way to the top. I already edited the video. I got a little too excited and stayed up way past my bedtime last night. It will be on my blog soon.
Sunday, I will be back behind the camera and out amongst the fashionistas with Keshia Crosby. I can't wait to see what the Fashion Forum has in store. Jay Alexander (Tyra's right-hand "Miss") will be there, so I bet its going to be a whole lot of fun. Stay tuned for the latest and greatest!

Side note, friends. I was really sad to read on DesignSponge this week that House and Garden is being shut down!!! Nooo! Time to find a new design fix.

I'm the motherflippin'...

2007-11-04T20:40:00.000-06:00

Rhymenocerous!

This was my post-Halloween costume. If you've ever watched The Flight of the Conchords, you'll know what a rhymenocerous is. Actually, why don't I post it?!

The costume was a hit. In the original video they are dressed like normal people, but I decided to interpret the rap and make a rhino costume. I also sang the rap in order to complete the costume. I had a great time meeting some great people in Teaneck (You know!). The girls liked the little details like the hand and foot covers. I even had a tail! Its the first time I've really tried to sew anything myself and I did it all without a machine, so I'm proud of myself. My hard work paid off: I won myself a pack of Peeps marshmallows.

Aside from that, today I got to do some great work for Fountain of Youth Productions. Lets just say, I am back behind the videocamera! More coming soon...:)

post-halloween

2007-11-03T04:14:00.000-05:00

In preparation for a post-Halloween costume party, I've stayed up until 5am today...making a costume! Here's a preview of me in action, mid-sewing...Can you guess what I will be tomorrow night? Err, tonight, I mean.

Here we (lo)go all over again.

2007-10-28T17:14:00.000-05:00

This weekend has been great. I had another audition today and I can only say I hope it went well. You just never know with auditions. You do your part. The directors do theirs. Will you match? One must wait and see...

I have also been reworking the Fountain of Youth Productions logo. I'll put it up once I'm done. For sure, its a million times better than before. I've been learning to draw on the subway. It certainly helps manage my time. Imagine spending an hour on the train in one day. Do you read, sleep, listen to music? You draw! I've been learning to focus on my work and ignore the other people on the train (to a healthy extent). Also, I'm learning to draw when the train goes bump. My favorite part is trying to draw the skyline at night as the Q train rides over the East River. Ahhh...I love New York.

Now, I am tired and must get back to work. So, till next time!

Blinded by the light

2007-10-23T21:38:00.000-05:00

I work a lot and for no pay. Yet, I am so happy. I am surrounded by good people and life is treating me well.
The people at Rooftop are some top-notch, really great people to work with. I also get super great perks for my free work. I get free movie rentals and some pretty sweet invites. I know that sounds lame, but considering I love the work I do with them...it makes me happy. Today, I was redesigning some Rooftop mailers and realized I have not had so much fun working on graphic design in a while. What a relief to know that I am doing the right thing with my life!
Alba, Richie, and I are getting back to the grind on Fountain of Youth Productions...At a Rooftop invite tonight, I met someone who was interested in hiring us, but after 45 minutes of his "pitch" and incessant name-dropping (but without names, only titles), I still didn't understand what he wanted. Needless to say, I'm not taking on his projects. Today, I've learned to be confident in picking what is right for me.

Next step: getting paid to do all this work I love.
Also, I had a great interview at Barneys on Friday. Now, I have to visualize positive results. I seeeeee a positive outcome in your future...Oh! I already see a result: another audition this weekend!

Sleepy in the Slope

2007-10-17T00:34:00.000-05:00

I'm back in Brooklyn and my first week has gone very well. Very busy. I'm very tired. I've gone to my internship at Rooftop Films twice. I really like the people I work with. Quality. I also attended an actor's festival this weekend. I auditioned for a tv show called the N. I didn't get it, but no problem. I've exercised and yoga-ed. I've gone ice skating at the Rockefeller Plaza. I have an interview coming up at Barneys New York, so I also went to check out the store...you could say its out of my price range. I met up with the roomie and went shopping and dinner. I also almost have health insurance. I spent a long time doing laundry. (I consider laundry an accomplishment when you don't have a machine in your building.) I've color/functioned coordinated my wardrobe. This next week is sure to be just as packed. Including, but not limited to: more internship, designing for Fountain of Youth Productions, interview at Barneys, weekend trip to DC, Rodrigo y Gabriela concert, and so on. Oh, I want to go and draw in the coffee shop...delicious pastries in the window...mmmm...

Brookyn, baby.

2007-10-08T17:08:00.000-05:00

Tomorrow, I head back to Crooklyn. As you may imagine, my past few days have gone whizzing by. I'm pretty set to go. Its difficult to figure out what to pack because I have 5 drawers for storage in the apartment over there. You'd be surprized how much I can fit into those drawers (my portfolio, books, and dresses)! Unfortunately, the change of season that should be coming up -- unless global warming continues to warp the transition -- makes deciding what clothes to take particularly difficult. Oh, and because I have this little problem of way-too-many-shoes, I have even more gruelling decisions to make.
Also, a small, but annoying obstacle: airport security. I'm sure you've all had the "what do I actually want to carry onboard?" dillemma. Or the "do I really want to wear a belt and boots? I'll just have to take it all off to go through security." Not to mention, I take my laptop everywhere. Gotta take it out of the bag, take off the shoes, take off your coat, your belt, try to juggle it all while not dropping your boarding pass in a line of annoyed people...then put it all back on. Tricky tricky. Since I only travel in style, this makes everything an extra challenge. Too bad I don't have a personal assistant.

I kid. I kid. Although, I don't think I would complain if I did have extra help.

Lets see about these recipes:

Spring rolls:
approx. 8" square of spring roll pastry (I found them at the International Groceries)
carrot- cut in thin, long pieces
cucumber- thin, long pieces (take the seeds out first)
soy beans
lettuce
cellophane noodles
cilantro
+ I added green onion because I love it, but its not official

the dipping sauce (my mom made up this mix):
soy sauce
chilli sauce
olive oil (?)
gingeroot
+other things I do not remember

1) cook noodles
2) have veggies/ingredients set up assembly-line style
3) dip the spring roll wrapper in hot water till soft (a few seconds)
4) place wrapper on a towel to make the roll, don't try patting it dry
5) place lettuce in bottom 1/3 of wrapper
6) noodles on top of lettuce
7) rest of veggies, etc...
8) wrap!
9) dip and enjoy its deliciousness!

Lonches Frantalianos (I decided this describes the odd mix of the Mexican-French-Italian bread recipe):
whole grain baguette
brie cheese
tomato
rosemary
sage
thyme

1) begin baking the bread
2) let the tomato (sliced) sit in its own juice, mixed with olive oil
3) take out the bread before its done, slice, let cool...
4) top with brie and tomato and spices!
5) I brushed on the extra tomato/oil mix
6) cook + enjoy

Now, I am off to enjoy my last evening in the Dale!

Culinary Arts

2007-10-06T19:37:00.000-05:00

I haven't posted in a while, so here's the latest scoop. This week's art was focused on the culinary arts! I am posting some photos to show you my latest.

I had been craving spring rolls for about a week, so I finally put myself to work. My mouth waters just thinking about these.

Some toasted whole grain baguette with brie cheese and tomato, garnshed with sage, rosemary, and thyme. I rather enjoyed this.

The full presentation.

Charter Saga

2007-09-26T10:49:00.000-05:00

Well, it seems that my situation has finally been rectified. I was smart and chose not to drive to the nearest office, instead make it back through the tangle of telephone connections until I got an office phone number (or so they claimed). After another series of "Press One..." options, I made it to a human, but not in the office. I don't think Charter makes it possible to talk with people in your local office over the phone. Fortunately, whomever I was talking with went straight to the problem -- Oh NO! I accidentally got disconnected!!! -- Here's the other disasterous part of dealing with Charter. At any given moment, you have no clue what part of their system you are in...so, when I got disconnected, I couldn't just call back to that phone number. I had to go back through all those choices of "Press One..." until I got a person. Luckily, this guy seemed to wrap it all up pretty quickly. I'd like to think that what he said was true.

--I do not owe Charter anything. They are contacting the agency to tell them I do not owe anyone anything. I will recieve no more harrasment from anyone about anything.--

Please let it be true.

Drumroll please...

Charter Communications Black Hole Eats Innocent Young Lady Alive. She Emerges in Tattered Glory Four Months Later!
(Don't mess with Alejandra. She will take you doooown!)

Charter Communications is words I cannot say.

2007-09-25T18:19:00.000-05:00

It seems I've spent the last few months in the Charter Communications Black Hole of Miscommunication. You would think that a communications company would know how to deal with both internal and external communications. I spent another hour and a half on the phone with them today. Actually, I spent another hour listening to elevator music that I now know by heart. What came of this:

1) I actually purchased the modem (two years ago) they claimed I needed to return to them. Therefore, this fiasco never should have begun in the first place.
2) Catch-22: Charter says I don't owe them any money, but they cannot "clear" my bill. They say I have to talk with the collection agency. I can't get the collection agency to "clear" my bill because they bought out the "debt" (which I never owed in the first place) to Charter. I never owed anyone a penny and yet I've fallen into the hands of a collection agency.
3) Tomorrow, I will drive 2.5 hours to the nearest Charter office so that I may (hopefully) finally have this ordeal ended. Supposedly, if I do this 2.5 hour drive and the office workers open my account, they will read all this info and be able to put the saga to rest. PLEASE let this be the end of it.
4) Charter Communications is incompetent.

I have been trapped into some sort of Catch-22 for which I am in NO way responsible. Its been four months of falling farther and farther into this vicious, life-sucking hole. You know that judge that sued the laundromat for not cleaning his pants to his satisfaction (or something to that effect)? I think I have a much better case than him. I really feel like this whole scenario, the Catch-22, deserves to go on public record. The newspaper headline will read as such:

Charter Communications Black Hole Eats Innocent Young Lady Alive (She Emerges in Tattered Glory Four Months Later).

Goodwill

2007-09-25T00:45:00.001-05:00

In order to lighten myself up a little before going to sleep I will bring you this weekend's dream highlight:

There was a dance party being held in the Goodwill store. Cowboy boots were present.

Charter Cable is foooooooolish!

2007-09-25T00:03:00.000-05:00

I prefer to avoid posting personal items, but I was fuming today. I try never to use the word "hate," but today it was on my mind. Luckily, geared towards Charter Cable, not a person. This series of events leading up to today has been going on since June. It goes like this:

early June: cancelled cable subscription
late June: received a bill. (I thought, "Whaaaat?") I called to make sure they had disconnected everything. They had and said to disregard the bill because it was sent before it was cancelled.
early July: received another bill. Second time I wonder whats up. They say, "You didn't return the modem." (Cause you never told me I had to!) "Oh we're sorry about the inconvenience." (I live far away now. How can I send it to you?) "Just mail it. We'll send you a package to mail it in."
mid July: I mail the modem to Charter
early August: Receive a bill from a collection agency. (Whaaaaaaat?!) Call Charter. They say, "Oh yeah, don't worry about it. We'll take that off...you said you already mailed it."
Now: Another bill from the collection agency. ("ARRRRGH!!!") Call Charter. "Um, you never sent the modem." (Yes I did! You also said you were cancelling that bill.) "Do you have a receipt?" (No, you didn't send one.) "Oh, then you didn't send it." (Look, I can't freakin' send you another one...I ALREADY SENT IT. I sent it in the package you gave me and to the place you told me to send it, by the way.) "Well, try going to the service center..."
I go to the service center because by sweet chance I am in St. Louis for the weekend.
At the "Customer Service Center": Situation is quickly summarized...They say, "I can't do anything for you. You have to pay."

I was ready to explode. I did. I had one of those Annette Bening in American Beauty moments. I got into my car and screamed. I tried to calm down, but I was boiling for such a long time that it occured to me that I might give myself a heart attack. I forsaw cancelling my subscription being a pain, but not like this. All this bad energy shouldn't have started in the first place. In order to calm down, I keep telling myself not to add to this negative cloud of thoughts. Good energy! Positive visualizations! Ommmm...

Big news!

2007-09-18T17:54:00.000-05:00

I hesitate to write this too soon because life has a lot of let-downs, but...
I might be working as a Design Intern in Hong Kong for 3-6 months! Here's the company:
http://www.thegraphis.com/tgc/default.asp
They don't have examples up on their site, but here's a few I got through the grapevine:

I'm going logo

2007-09-17T23:35:00.000-05:00

I made a quick sketch of our FOY logo:
Its bound to change dramatically, but at least I finally got this out of my system. I was starting to drive myself crazy. I was going loco with the logo weighing down on my shoulders.

Today's thoughts #1 + VIVA MEXICO!

2007-09-16T21:13:00.000-05:00

“Tough” is a retro term, an obsession of another and more superficial era. What kids will need from this point forward is courage. The kind of fearlessness that comes with awareness–the awareness that the worst that can happen has already begun. The courage to choose negotiation over violence, books over bombs, justice over torture, and the planet over the narrow affiliation to some nation, creed, or sect. ...If we think more in terms of awareness than a blind concept of toughness, and work with children from that perspective, then they will have a reasonable chance at ensuring the survival of the human race beyond this century...— Posted by Brian Donohue

The above is an excerpt from someone commenting on a NY Times article today. I particularly like the line "courage to choose negotiation over violence..." It spurrs a wave of thoughts that I've been mulling over this weekend. I was reminded how its so easy to let children choose violence...

---Ummm, what did Sally Field just try to say on tv that got cut out by the censors??? (Sorry, Emmys are on tv and what just happened?!)---

Thought #1: When children are angry, scared, or frustrated, its too easy to let them choose aggression instead of helping them find intelligent words and a positive means of expression. (Not a brilliant idea. Just a thought.)

That said, America Ferrera just got an Emmy. I am strangely overwhelmed. Probably because I know that I am just as capable of being up on that stage as she is. Not that I have the same acting chops...[If I beat out Mary Louise-Parker and Felicity Huffman at the Emmys, the gods would retaliate. If I beat out Tina Fey, she would make make a joke out of me.]...Rather, I have the intelligence and the ambition and I will be producing some sweet film and tv work in due time.

Thought #2: I will be producing film and tv work worthy of winning national awards.
---Current TV got an Emmy!---
Thought #3: I was born into a family of workaholics. There is no escaping this genetic ball and chain.
---I just noticed Billy's half-brother was nominated for an Emmy today! Woah! Super huge congratulations!---
Thought #4: The main character of the screenplay I am working on is a priest. I am not a religious person by any means. What I'm really interested in is his response to a situation that causes him to revaluate...
Thought #5: I'm worried about writing my creative ideas online. What if someone steals my creative juices and leaves me high and dry?
Thought #6: In my dream last night, my city and all the people I know were being bombed. I better get moving with my life.
Thought #7: Today (September 16) is Mexican Independence Day.

Viva Mexico!
Viva!
Viva Mexico!
Viva!
Viva Mexico!
Viva!

Mexicanos, al grito de guerra
el acero aprestad y el bridón.
Y retiemble en sus centros la tierra,
al sonoro rugir del cañón.
¡Y retiemble en sus centros la tierra,
al sonoro rugir del cañón!

[music fades into background]

For Julia

2007-09-11T21:10:00.000-05:00

As the title says.

I am living your dream life: sleeping, eating, exercizing (I have a very hard time spelling this word every single time I use it. Without fail.), applying to jobs, cleaning, socializing, worrying about all the things I have not completed...
(I don't think that last one is in your dream life.)

I wrote this entry after the last time I saw you, but I was too shy to actually post it. I will attach it below now in honor of our IM conversation tonight. It was titled "The thing that turns my blood to fire"
_______
Excert from an IM I sent to Julia Kuo today:

"...part of the reason i IMed you is because im reading this article that essentially talks about women being forced into slavery for militant groups. I just want to scream it makes me so angry. Its making me want to ditch the 9-5 job search and work for a group like the International Rescue Committee...except that I've searched their job listings multiple times and I've never found anything remotely related to 'Designer'..."

Today, I am happy that I had a phone great phone interview for a job.
Today, I am SO angry about lack of education and resources around the world.
--I don't think there is any way to describe how my blood boils every time I think about people in conflict around the world--
Today, I have decided that I cannot any longer tolerate the way I push my dreams onto the backburner.
I have to contact organizations that really rile me up--The International Rescue Committee--and go after my passion.

I'ma get my pash'on.

(I am sure to be dissillusioned by the way these organizations work...no?)
------
In short: Hello Julia! Thanks for being a dedicated blog/essay reader.

Chongalicious

2007-09-04T15:13:00.000-05:00

I can't believe I'm posting this, but I thought it was funny. A WU girl posted this and said its two of her cousins in Miami. You'll just have to see for yourself...wow...

So much!

2007-09-02T16:57:00.000-05:00

You would think that after graduation life slows down a little...especially if you don't have a 9-5 job. Yet! I am still busybusybusybusy. As of this week/end, my design endeavors have been focused on the interior arts: painting and redecorating. Its taking quite a looooong time.

Listen while you work

2007-08-28T13:32:00.000-05:00

This is what I have been listening to this week. Well, not Serge Gainsbourg. Just added that for fun. Much Maria Callas while painting the house. My favorite wasn't on YouTube in good quality: Un Bel Di, Vedremo (Madame Butterfly, Puccini). Estrella Morente while searching for a flamenco studio... Serge Gainsbourg juste pour écouter tandis que je travaille sur Fountain of Youth...

La Javanaise - Serge Gainsbourg

Volver - Estrella Morente

O, Mio Babbino Caro - Maria Callas

(Voice sounds older, no? I didn't realize the lyrics talked about Florence. I lived about 10 feet away from Porta Rossa!)

Una Voce Poco Fa - Maria Callas

Smart Show results

2007-08-25T17:45:00.001-05:00

Great news! My sister, Alba, was chosen as The Smart Show alternate co-host. So, thank you for taking the time and checking out her videos. Looks like we helped her catch the attention of the producers. Small victories, my friends. Always celebrate big, though!

These days I'm really, really trying so hard to clean up my disaster of a room. I have so much stuff to sort through, organize, toss, keep. It seems I have inherited this must gruesome trait of hanging on to things that I think will serve as physical reminders of my life. I really wish I could close my eyes and when they open again - voilá! - all fixed! I'm so anxious to finish and go back to NY.

Dreams (Part I)

2007-08-22T23:52:00.000-05:00

There isn't actually a Part II yet, but seeing as how I dream with extreme frequency (both in sleep and waking life) there might be one in the making eventually...

I need to watch "Yume" aka "Dreams" by Kurosawa again soon. I haven't seen that movie since I was itty bitty teeny weeny. Still, I think of that movie all the time. Ahhh! The power of art.
I dream on a regular basis. I also remember these dreams on a regular basis. I decide to not write them down...on a regular basis. It would take toooo long because my dreams are so bizarre and they only make sense with all those mad little details. I can remember dreams all the way back...hmm. I used to have a dream that haunted me when I was a child. Seems I've finally forgotten it. Ooo! Done. I've remembered.
What I love about dreams is how they seem to be most prevalent in my life when I am facing decisions. I can always be sure that no matter how confused I may be by day, at night my dreams provide me with clear answers. That seems to work for me. Nikki told me to start illustrating my dreams and then post them up here. That would be hilarious. Especially one this weekend where I was a hobo being chased by other hobos. If I follow my own theory about dreams providing clear answers, then my dreams are telling me to avoid being homeless. Hmm. Sage advice. This week's dreamscape has been bizzare, to say the least. Last night's double-feature included Hell's Kitchen (colored in neon grafitti with Basquiat-stylings), followed by sneaking through a Mies van der Rohe home.

In other news: I've started writing another song. Me and the piano are together again! It makes me so happy to be able to sit at the piano and just fumble around for as long as I want. When I am in NY, my piano and guitar are the only material things I miss. Tonight I will dream the rest of the song.

The Smart Show

2007-08-20T21:55:00.000-05:00

I'm back to blogging after a busy week in The Dale.
My latest project: To help Alba land the role of "Co-Host" on "The Smart Show."

Here's where you come in and have fun:
Visit the links below and rate her audition (preferably at least once before Friday...pretty please).

http://iw.rtm.com/thesmartshow/video.asp?VideoID=269

http://iw.rtm.com/thesmartshow/video.asp?VideoID=271

http://iw.rtm.com/thesmartshow/video.asp?VideoID=262

That's all! If she wins, you'll be seeing her as co-host someday! Come on and VOTE!

Hipster

2007-08-10T11:15:00.001-05:00

Last night I was trying to explain what "Hipster" is to my mom. See it all started because here in Carbondale we have a large hippie population. For some reason or another I said "hipster" somewhere in our conversation and my mom thought I had said "hippie." I then decided to go on and try to not only differentiate between the two, but really define what a hipster is for my mom. Since then, I've decided to take this on as a mini project. I will attempt to use my highly evolved descriptive vocabulary and visual language skills to clear up the confusion and answer the question:

"What is Hipster?"

First of all, "Hipster" is a person. Due to (previously) low rent (by NY standards), Williamsburg was the original breeding ground of young creatives in the NY region. According (oh, so legitimate) Wikipedia, "A hipster is an individual who avoids and often explicitly rejects whatever is seen as mainstream or corporate in nature, instead embracing alternative forms of expression." Nowadays, the trend has become so widespread that it is probably over. If it has reached a midwestern girl, its just not "deck" anymore.

In June 2006, a small group of people in Williamsburg, Brooklyn decided to make a sitcom spoofing the lifestyle of the Hipsters in the neighborhood. The result is a popular internet sitcom called "The Burg." (Named after Williamsburg, the original breeding ground of the Hipster.) On their website, you can enjoy the full series...
www.theburg.tv/blog
Here is an excerpt from their site:
"Welcome to Williamsburg, Brooklyn - a once run-down neighborhood now transformed into the hippest corner of New York City. Known as a hub for art, indie rock, and alternative fashion, the 'burg is the world capital of the 'hipster' movement – the young-and-oh-so-chic set who decide what is cool and not cool for an entire generation."

Lets take a look at the visual development of the characters. Notice their use of layers.

Make sure to wear big sunglasses that look like they belong on your grandma. If you are a guy, Elivs Costello glasses will do.

Here is a Hipster trademark:

To be a true Hipster, you must love dancing and do it completely un-inhibited. You could be the worst dancer in the world, but you should act like you don't care. In fact, its even better if you dance poorly. Just as long as you swing your hips and toss your hair side to side as you pump those fists, you're golden. Oh, and you must listen to Indie music. Always try to be ahead of the game. "I heard of Amy Winehouse months ago...way before she was on the setlist for Coachella."

Nylon Magazine and Paper Magazine are the closest thing I know of to Hipster publicatons here in the US. However, I think because they are mass produced and corporate, they probably loose the award for Epitomy of Hipster Publication. Nylon is clearly geared towards the Hipster demographic, choosing Indie artists and Hipster fashion for their publications. Let's see if I can find a good image...
No matter how expensive your outfit might be, it must look like a thrifty find. You must look put together, but put together as if you don't care about what you've got on.

A guy wearing fur. Daring = Hipster

A few neon pieces in the wardrobe = Hipster. When she was asked by the magazine who her fashion icon was she replied, "Me." The Hipster does not idolize mainstream fashion icons. If you make your own clothes, even better.

Suspenders.

He is a conceptual artist. The more conceptual and the more artist you are, the more Hipster.

Her name is Fern.

Graphic tees or use of pattern in textiles is key!

Bangs and comfy fabrics. Stretch jersey fabric is preferable.

This entry is pure fun. I know "The Hipster Handbook" has been in existence for years, but this is my own creation in response to my mom's question.

Last but not least, Hipsters are "deck." The use of "cool" is out.
"Deck" is in...
or was...

Funniest Music Video Ever

2007-08-10T10:41:00.000-05:00

I think the title says it all.

It's coming...

2007-08-09T15:57:00.000-05:00

This Saturday, this is what I'll be doing:

I wish I were dancing, but I'll be standing on the side cheering on my little Carbondale kin. If, by any chance, you happen to be in Carbondale Saturday evening - come and enjoy a showcase of talented Carbondale youth! We are a small place with big talent. :)

The Dale

2007-08-07T17:06:00.001-05:00

I'm back in the 'Dale for a few weeks...

The Living Room

2007-08-02T21:41:00.001-05:00

Brendan's concert at The Living Room tonight was spectacular! He had me tearing up at one point during "Hero's Song." I couldn't help but think about a friend of mine who is being sent to fight in a few months...

Well, I think when you can sincerely connect with your audience, its golden. Oooh! And drumroll please...Brendan James is #23 on iTunes today! There's even more exciting things coming his way, but I am not sure if anyone is at liberty to announce them publicly...? All of us in his little Curry/Brendan fan club were freaking out about his upcoming feature on ___ and he was just keeping his cool. So modest. (I'm not being sarcastic.) Congrats for the second time this week!

Now, I've been so celebratory of Brendan this week because so much has just been snowballing for him. I want to mention that I am very proud of my own sister, Alba Ponce de León. She has been working on recording one song every week. Just her and a raw, homegrown recording. Check out her weekly updates here:
www.albaponcedeleon.com/podcast

Ohhhh, I should tell you to check out "La Vie on Rose" in her podcasts. I sing the first solo section.

If you want to know more about the behind-the-scenes life of my future famous :) sister:
www.albaponcedeleon.com/blog

My next personal project will be working on her PR.
Until next time...