MC7C

Featured Artist: Abby Davis

2010-03-04T16:25:00.000-08:00

(as always, interview conducted by k@t Marsh. Don't copy or paste this interview, it's stealing! Instead direct link to this feature to share it! Thanks)

Bio:
I lived in Richmond, Va with my highly creative family until I was 18. I have been crafting since I was a toddler with my strength being sewing. There is a long history of fiber arts in our family, so it's thought to be a given that everyone (female and male) know how to at least sew. I moved to Philadelphia, PA to attend The Art Institute of Philadephia to pursue my passion for Fashion Design. There I refined my sewing skills and fell in love with draping and pleating fabrics into sleek sculptural forms. I also became very interested in the history of art and fashion and how it relates to today's world. After I graduated college, I moved back to Richmond, Va to work on a plan for my fashion designer goal.

After a few months of living in Richmond again, I meet my now husband and fell in love. We got married and had a surprise daughter. As the years have passed and she has grown, I've been refining my art skills which include, machine sewing, hand embroidery, pattern making, pattern alteration, fabric manipulation, crocheting, wire wrap jewelry, beading, drawing and recently painting. I've been applying my skills to new mediums like embroidery and beading on canvas and drawing with paint on clothing and canvas to produce visually stimulating art pieces.

I started my blog,
http://craftyladyabby.blogspot.com/ ,
in March 2009 to document my art as well as other fashion and history related interests.
In October 2009 I opened my ETSY store, Azurafae by Abby Davis,
http://www.etsy.com/shop/azurafae
to start selling my hand made fashion accessories and soon my art.
In December 2009, I made a Facebook fan page,
http://www.facebook.com/business/dashboard/?ref=sb#/pages/Azurafae/190463031940 ,
so people could keep track of when I make new things to sell and when they are listed on ETSY or available for custom order.

Since then I have been featured twice on www.skulladay.com for my art and skull collection.
http://skulladay.blogspot.com/2009/08/family-man-skull.html
http://skulladay.blogspot.com/2009/11/ides-of-skull-fanatic-abby-davis.html

I do not have any upcoming shows, but as I start making more art pieces, I hope that will change.

INTERVIEW:

Describe your work to someone who has never seen it before.

I am heavily influnced by sugar skulls, nature and pin-up. I love mixing macabre things like skulls and nocturnal creatures with pretty things like flowers and butterflies. For wearable items, I love texture and comfort. I want to make it beautiful, but I also want to be comfortable so the skin isn't bothered by the materials used to create the item.

What do you find visually stimulating right now? Any local artists that we need to keep an eye on?

I have been following the art work of Noah Scalin who made an art blog www.skulladay.com about making a skull out of different mediums every day for a year. His work and now the work of fans and co-writers is beautiful and inspirational. It's what made me want to start applying my love of sugar skulls to canvas and cloth.

What other artists or movements inform your work/aesthetics/sensibilities?

Crochet wise, I'm inspired by Monster Crochet, http://monstercrochet.blogspot.com/ , which along with www.skulladay.com, influenced the creation of my skull scarf. It also keeps me thinking about how to expand my crochet techniques to make more intricate and beautiful items.
Historically, I'm influenced by Betsey Johnson, Elsa Schiaparelli, Rudy Gernreich, Paco Rabanne, and Itsy Miyaki. I love the sculputural and quirkiness of thier creations. Their innovations and design techniques make me continue to think of new and interesting ways to make my creations come to life.

I am fascinated with Day of the Dead/ Dia de los Muertos, Catrinas, Papel Picado ((mexican cut paper), Sugar Skulls and related aspects to the three day ancestrial festival. I have no Mexican heritage, but the bright colors and beautiful flowers mixed with the skeletons and skulls is an intriging thing. I love the fact that they remember thier ancestors in such a beautiful and postive way. It's a celebration of life.

If there were no financial limits whatsoever for you, what constraints would you most like to overstep? Are there other mediums you would explore?

I would love to have my own shop to sell my own work as well as work from other local artists. I would love to explore architecture, furniture, and transportation design. I see beauty in everything and would love the opportunity to share that view point with others.
Did you grow up in Virginia? (If not, when / why did you move here?)

I was born and raised in Virginia. I love it here. I've traveled and lived in other places, but I always come back here. It has everything that I want...cities, beaches, mountians, country side...

Do you do gallery shows?

I have only done one gallery show with my "Wind" art piece, but I would love to do more. I plan on creating more skeleton pieces using techniques similar to those used in my "Wind" piece.

What is your current favorite creation?

My current favorite creation is my "Flower and Vines Skull". It sits on my fire place mantle and it inspires me to make more art pieces. I also love my skull scarf which has been keeping me warm these past few months.

How much do you think hype affects the public perception of what good art is?

I think hype heavily influences the public perception, because it increases the public exposure of the art and makes it more well known. With that being said, not everyone likes the same thing. I tend to like many different types of art from many influences, countries and historical points, however someone else might just like one of two kinds. By having increased exposure, it can help broaden the spectrum of art a person might like and this is always a good thing.

Last CD bought, downloaded or stole?

Bought - Norah Jones - "The Fall"
Bartered For - Synthetic Nightmare - "Rot in Equality"

Why do you think so many people spend money on music but don't buy much REAL art?

Music is more publically exposed than art is. You can hear music on the radio, on tv, on the internet and it's something that everyone likes. Art doesn't get that kind of exposure. Sure it's in the media and in museums, but an art program is the 1st thing to get cut at schools before a music program. So the value is not seen as high. I find art to be very therapeutic and that aspect should be more publically known. If I'm having a bad day, some form of art always makes me happier. Weather it's making something or just looking at it, the beauty of it makes my world a little happier.

How do you think the local scene is doing? How would you change it?

I love the mix of music, dance, performance art and visual art. The only thing that that could improve it is making our semi-under ground art movements and shows known to the general public. I live in the suburbs, but go to the city on a regular basis, so I have more art exposure than the normal suburbanite. Weekly news in various mainstream media always helps draw more attention. Also, with my having a young daughter, I always love kid friendly things. Kids love art too. Her being a kid from a long line of artists, she is a bit more advanced than the average kid, so she would love to be able to attend art things that aren't totally kid themed.

Last Book you read?

"Memoirs of a Geshia" by Arthur Golden
I'm currently reading "Doomed Queens: Royal Women Who Met Bad Ends, From Cleopatra to Princess Di" by Kris Waldherr

What's your favorite local restaurant to eat at?

Vietnam One. I love their noodle soup.

Quote us your favorite song lyrics. (please include who it is by)

"I will swallow
If it will help my sea level go down
I'll take a deep deep breath
But I'll come back to haunt you if I drown"
-Emilie Autumn
What's your worst habit?

procrastinating about cleaning. My house usually looks like a craft bomb exploded.

What irritates you?

Not getting time to relax every day, not having any control, and when my daughter talks non stop. The last one is the child me coming back to haunt me.

What has been your greatest success?

Having one of my art pieces on display in a gallery of a Capital One large corporate building. The art director loved it and offered to show more of my work when I had it ready.

What has been your greatest setback?

The greatest setback has been the unexpected birth of my daughter. However, I never stopped crafting and we craft together some times. She is my greatest helper. She tells me what she likes and what she doesn't. She loves when I make new things, so she is a great motivator.

The business side of being an artist: how do you market/promote yourself, and does it work? How do you cope?

Since my daughter is now school age, I have just recently started trying to market and promote myself via the internet, but am very interested in branching out in other ways. It has definitely worked to get some exposure of what I can do. I'm still very new to selling my art, so if something doesn't work, I keep on trying something else in an attempt to find the best outlet. Sort of like when you buy a new house, you test all the plugs till you find the one that will always turn something on with a flip of the switch.

What came first, the art or the misery? Explain.

The art. Not all artist are miserable. I love Van Gogh, but I'm not about to cut off my ear for a mistress. I craft weather I'm happy or not. It's what keeps me going. Van Gogh painted on his good and bad days.

What do you think of what MC7C does? How would you make it better? Have you been to any of our events?

I love how MC7C promotes the local art scenes. The more positive exposure the stronger the scene gets. I have yet to attend any events, but I would love to.

Featured Artist: Amy Chastin

2010-03-04T16:00:00.000-08:00

(as always, do not copy + paste this feature or repost elsewhere, share the URL or website with others...anything else is stealing and not giving me proper credit.)

Feature can ALSO be viewed here--- on the MC7C myspace blog!

http://www.myspace.com/monochromatic7cities

Bio:
Business Moniker: Mooncatcher Creations
Hometown and Current City: Virginia Beach, Virginia
Age: 26
Online store: www.mooncatchercreations.etsy.com
Upcoming Events: None scheduled at the moment but working on making my circuit debut!

Describe your work to someone who has never seen it before.

My style and personal aesthetic still has much growing to do. I was very artsy as a kid but it wasn’t until the end of 2008 that I started creating again. I started out with a simple elegant aesthetic but I am now foraying more into making the statement pieces that I’ve wanted to make from the jump.

What do you find visually stimulating right now? Any local artists that we need to keep an eye on?

My inspiration tends to come organically and spontaneously. I’m constantly saturating my senses with my environment whether doing so with music, inspirational images, reading, meditation, etc. As far as untapped artists I guess I’d have to throw a shout out to the pagan circuit for which your average person is going to know nothing about but there is a great community of local artists within it. The artists on that circuit tend to be very eclectic but I’ve seen some pretty incredible artists from all over at events such as May Moon, Earthweavers, and Pagan Pride Day @ Bayville Farms. In between the festivals, you can also find much of this type of art at Mystic Moon on Military highway.

What other artists or movements inform your work/aesthetics/sensibilities?

I march to the beat of my own whacked out drummer which may be why I have no developed personal aesthetic yet. I just sort of create it as I feel it whatever "it" may be at the time. I do take a lot of inspiration from Wendy Russell and Jennifer Perkins. I love how they've taken arts and crafts and made it youthful and relevant to modern day decor. Strictly speaking jewelry making I'd undoubtedly say I am awe inspired by artists like Tatiana van Iten. Her bead working skills are absolutely incredible to the point that her jewelry is not jewelry; they are wearable works of art.

If there were no financial limits whatsoever for you, what constraints would you most like to overstep? Are there other mediums you would explore?

If money were no issue then I would love to put together a studio so I could dabble in all sorts of art projects. My goal is to become an artsy jack of all trades not just stuck in one facet of art. I'd love to take a stab at painting, maybe even make furniture or just reclaim and refurbish pieces in a modern, funky way. I've always wanted to make a vintage paned glass window table or wall hanging.

Did you grow up in Virginia? (If not, when / why did you move here?)

Yes. In such a transient city, I am one of those people who was born, bred, and has stayed in Virginia Beach my entire life.

Do you do gallery shows?

Patronizing them the but unfortunately I have not yet done any vending. Thus far I've been pretty timid about my work. My style is one that is still evolving so I don't have the confidence and signature style that many local artists have.

What is your current favorite creation?

Probably the rhinestone seahorse necklace with the light blue resin beads. It's a more bold statement sort of piece and is the closest I've come to satisfaction with my work. It also to me in a simple way encompasses things I love, the beach, rhinestones, gemstones, and big baubles lol.

How much do you think hype affects the public perception of what good art is?

I think hype and marketing can be everything when it comes to the public's perception of good art. However, what is "good art" anyways? It is completely subject to the observer’s interpretation. From a personal standpoint, even if one doesn't like the style or piece, you have to appreciate and respect the fact that someone felt creation inside and took the time and the effort to manifest something that is an extension of them to be put out for public scrutiny.

Last CD bought, downloaded or stole?

Ok I bet this will be way out of left field. I downloaded the Midnight Express soundtrack to add to my Giorgio Moroder mp3 collection. Electro-heads and Scarface sampling hip hop producers know your roots to the man that is Giorgio Moroder lol.

Why do you think so many people spend money on music but don't buy much REAL art?

I think it's just a matter of the consumer minded mentality of these United States. We are used to getting mass produced goods for cheap. Especially in these hard times paying extra for quality art is not important while having music that gets us moving through the day is always going to be worth investing in to the average person. However it goes even further than that. I think many people simply don't know there's a flourishing local art scene that would probably speak to them and right at their fingertips either at a local venue or on the internet. With 1 million registered users, websites like Etsy are a wonderful asset to the thriving artist and hopefully awareness will continue to grow in the mainstream.

How do you think the local scene is doing? How would you change it?

The local scene always has its ups and downs whether it's music, art, or both. I think it was lulling for a while and really kind of still is. But there's a strong base there and I always remain hopeful that it will boom.

Last Book you read?

Again way out of left field and some who know me might keel over when I say this but I've actually been reading parts of the Bible. I am almost 27 years old and have NEVER read it before so I picked up one at my local Dollar Tree lol.

What's your favorite local restaurant to eat at?

I patron many local eateries so it's very hard to pick just one. But if I had to then I guess I'd have to say Beach Bully. I've been going there since I was a kid and when I wasn't my Dad was usually bringing it home once or twice a month. They're funny, friendly people there and the food is so good (Superbully platter w/ mac n cheese and French fries please). On top of which their buy one get one free coupons are the deal!

Quote us your favorite song lyrics. (please include who it is by)

My favorite song lyrics are relative to what is currently going on in my life. Today the following particularly resonated with me as I listened ...

"I want to live where soul meets body. And let the sun wrap its arms around me. And bathe my skin in water cool and cleansing. And feel, feel what its like to be new" (Soul Meets Body by Death Cab for Cutie)

What's your worst habit?

Procrastinating. I always get what I need done by the time and date it needs to be done by. But I am definitely a terrible procrastinator even though I so don't want to be!

What irritates you?

Inconsiderate people and habitual liars.

What has been your greatest success?

By far being a Mother is my greatest success. I have an incredibly bright daughter who lights me up inside like the 4th of July.

What has been your greatest setback?

My greatest setback was definitely the 1 - 2 punch of leaving my job of over 2 years in August (the timing, not that I left) and then having my fiancé/father of my child leave ME not too long after. In the beginning I couldn't even fathom creating again. However I am currently experiencing a surplus of inner creativity not just with my jewelry making but also expanding into general projects. I see potential in everything now.

The business side of being an artist: how do you market/promote yourself, and does it work? How do you cope?

I've been treading very softly as far as putting myself out there. I've sold mostly to family, friends, and co-workers so far. I also have an Etsy store which I promote on occasion and have had a couple of sales. In 2010 though I have a new found confidence in my work and am enthusiastic to put myself out there by vending events and generally getting a little exposure.

What came first, the art or the misery? Explain.

Art is misery and misery is art. I think some of the best art is born from misery either while experiencing it or the happiness that comes from surviving the plight of misery. So in my opinion the two are tightly linked.

What do you think of what MC7C does? How would you make it better? Have you been to any of our events?

Anyone who has the stick-with-it-ness to be a local promoter, especially in this area, is a rock star in my eyes. The only thing I could say to make it better is get a street team because I'm sure it's a lot for one person to handle alone! I've been to art shows in the past but admittedly I can't recall if they were MC7C events or not. However I will certainly be in attendance at future events.

http://www.youtube.com/v/tmO4Sz7hL3g&hl=en_US&fs=1&rel=0&color1=0xcc2550&color2=0xe87a9f

Pigment of Your Imagination (Art Show / Edmarc Benefit)

2009-01-28T17:17:00.000-08:00

Mission: The raise awareness of local Virginia artists, educate the public on many forms of art expressions, and assist / raise money or donations for EDMARC Hospice for Children to ensure their health care services. An estimated 300-500 people are expected to attend the event and donate to the charity. 100% of the proceeds are going to Edmarc Hospice for Children.

Date: February 21 2009

Venue: Walls Fine Art Gallery, Monticello Arcade (across MacArthur Mall) Norfolk Virginia

Time: 7pm-11pm

Artists: Christine Harris, Brian Banks, Devon Lawrence, Howard Tarpey, Robert Kurtz, Frank “Grandpa” Marsh, Derek Eley, Jade Bengco, Toxic Shock Clothing, Last Deviant, Fotog Ink, Holly Williams, Chad VanPelt, & k@t Marsh.

Music: DJ Lord Thomas, DJ k@t, & DJ Who?

Edmarc Hospice for Children

ARTISTS, VENUE, DJ:

Walls Fine Art Gallery

DJ Lord Thomas

Last Deviant

Brian Banks

Toxic Shock Apparel

Holly Williams

Devon Lawrence

Derek Eley

Christine Harris

Howard Tarpey

Kurtz

Chad VanPelt

Jade Bengco

k@t Marsh

Gabriel Perry

Participating Sponsors & Organizations:

Orthopaedic Associates of Virginia

The Green Monster Movie / Trevor Wright!

The Nightmare Mansion

Doumar's Cones and BBQ

Cinema Cafe

AOC Salon Myspace

AOC Salon dot Com

McFadden's Hampton Dot Com

MCT Creative Culture

Video and Photography Services Provided by:
Crysdan Productions

Zuleika

The Gypsy Queens

About EDMARC: Established in 1978, Edmarc Hospice for Children was the first hospice in the nation designed specifically for children. They are a United Way agency, serving children with life-limiting illness and their families, without regard to their ability to pay for services. Edmarc believes that remaining at home helps alleviate some of the child’s stress. They offer a broad range of services to address not only the physical and emotional needs of the child, but the many needs of their families. Their home health, hospice, and bereavement support services are available to children and families 24/7.

For Additional Information on MC7C:

http://www. myspace. com/monochromatic7cities

http://mc7c. weebly. com/

email: monochromatic7cities@yahoo.com

For Additional Information on Edmarc:

http://www. edmarc. org/

For Additional Information on Walls:

http//www. myspace. com/wallsfineart

Parking:

Metered Parking Areas are FREE after 6pm on Saturday Night.

Park at MacArthur Center South Garage (off City Hall Ave)- After 6pm for $2.
00

Sponsors: *thus far*

Orthopaedic Associates of VA

AOC Salon

Doumar's

Cinema Cafe

MCT Creative Culture

Crysdan Productions

Zuleika

Check out the MC7C page for a complete link to all the artists!

It's Just a Pigment of Your Imagination

2009-01-19T19:20:00.000-08:00

Last Night on MAXFM's Local's Lounge we announced the name of MC7C's next art show for Feb 21, 2009....now here's the rest of the details.

PIGMENT OF YOUR IMAGINATION

(Circus, Sideshow, Alice in Wonderland, Storybook Theme)

FEB 21 2009
7pm-11pm
Walls Fine Art Gallery:
Date: February 21 2009

Venue: Walls Fine Art Gallery, Monticello Arcade Norfolk, Virginia
The gallery, as well as the promenade, will be open and used for the art show.

Artists: Christine Harris, Devon Lawrence, Howard Tarpey, Robert Kurtz, Frank “Grandpa” Marsh, Derek Eley, Jade Bengco, Toxic Shock Clothing, Last Deviant, Fotog Ink, Holly Williams, Chad VanPelt, & k@t Marsh.

Music: DJ Lord Thomas, DJ k@t, & DJ Who?

Charity:

Edmarc Hospice for Children

What is EDMARC?
About EDMARC: Established in 1978, Edmarc Hospice for Children was the first hospice in the nation designed specifically for children. They are a United Way agency, serving children with life-limiting illness and their families, without regard to their ability to pay for services. Edmarc believes that remaining at home helps alleviate some of the child’s stress. They offer a broad range of services to address not only the physical and emotional needs of the child, but the many needs of their families. Their home health, hospice, and bereavement support services are available to children and families 24/7.

How YOU can help:
We are looking for sponsors, as well as, organizations to help raise money or much needed donations for the event. There's a long list of needs for Edmarc and despite the economy, we believe that people are still able to donate services or their free time to help others, when their money is tight. We are doing this without any funding. We are using our own money to put together this show and are not getting paid for organizing this event. All proceeds are going to the charity. We have an army of local volunteers who are donating their free time to help paint, set up, build, and organize the show along side us. It is not just our show, it's the communities show. Edmarc is there for the 7 Cities families that need the help and assistance for their sick child and bereavement, despite their lack of income or money.

WE NEED FOOD DONATIONS FOR THE EVENT NIGHT. Work at a restaurant? Know someone who can cook? You can have it all written off on your taxes because you're helping a charity and helping us! We need finger foods (sandwiches, dips, deserts, simple and easy things), & drinks (bottled water, canned soda).

EDMARC NEEDS DONATIONS. Money or gift certificates for services. Wanna help? Send us your email and we'll send you the list of items Edmarc needs. Some examples are: haircuts, manicures, pedicures, gas cards, grocery store cards, free movie rentals, gift cards to restaurants for the parents, passes to local museums and entertainment spots)

THE LINKS
ARTISTS, VENUE, DJ:

Walls Fine Art Gallery

DJ Lord Thomas

Last Deviant

Brian Banks

Toxic Shock Apparel

Holly Williams

Devon Lawrence

Derek Eley

Christine Harris

Howard Tarpey

Kurtz

Chad VanPelt

Jade Bengco

k@t Marsh

Gabriel Perry

Participating Sponsors & Organizations: (so far)

A BIG THANKS AND SHOUTOUT TO: MCT Creative Culture
Andra
Alfredo Torres at MAXFM 100.5FM
The Nightmare Mansion, Pirate Adventure, 3D Fun House, Mirror Maze at the VB Oceanfront

Video and Photo Services Provided for FREE by the talented:

Crysdan Productions

Many Thanks to the volunteers (list will grow so watch for it):

Nicky
ScareyPete
Amanda Page Stephens
Fred and Paula Marsh

Flier to be made and distributed everywhere soon!!!!! Stay tuned.
For those who want to help, please message us with contact info and email address.

Thanks for your support. We can't wait to rock the 7Cities with the new MC7C art show!

k@t and -Gabe-

Artist: Jeannine Peregrine

2009-01-08T18:55:00.000-08:00

The following feature was conducted and is now presented by the MC7C duo. Do Not copy+paste this elsewhere! Direct link to it!

Self-written bio

My name is Jeannine Peregrine (sounds like Janeen Pair-a-grin) and I am a mid-thirty-something Southern Californian transplanted in Suffolk married to a soon-to-be-retired U.S. Marine. We have no kiddies, just two kitties.

Two days a week I am a bookkeeper in Franklin, the rest of the time I'm a self-taught, mixed media collage artist, writer, blogger, and housewife.

My artwork has been published in national magazines and independent zines including Altered Couture and Somerset Studio, in the book 1,000 Artists' Journal Pages, the forthcoming book Exhibition 36, and exhibited in local art galleries.

I love reading, cookies, and old movies.

Interview

How long have you been creating? What got you started doing art?

I've always made things. I remember when I was a little girl, pulling a chair up in front of the TV and playing with scissors, paste, paper, and crayons. I always had art supplies - crayons, paper, paints, tape - and I loved coloring books, writing little stories, painting little pictures. We always had art class in grade school so I was exposed to all kinds of arts and crafts. When I got to high school, I didn't even consider taking art as an elective because I couldn't draw realistically (something that, sadly, many people think disqualifies them from being an artist). Art then became something I did as an afterthought. After high school, I got into rubber stamping and making greeting cards and eventually that evolved into collage, mixed media, and art journals all of which I've been doing for eight years.

Describe your work to someone who has never seen it before.

I create collages on paper, canvas, and occasionally fabric, using all kinds of media, including paints, colored pencils, oil pastels, pencil, tissue paper, and vintage papers. Focal points for my work are primarily copies of old photos from a lovingly tended collection of vintage photos I find on ebay and in antique stores. I love to work with old photos because the figures in them are always blank faced (from standing for long periods of time while waiting for the photographer to set up and take the picture). These blank faces allow me to project my own stories and context onto them. Most of my pieces feature individual, solitary figures. I love to combine the old photos and papers with simple drawings.

I would hate to pin down my "style" but I exist comfortably on both whimsical and introspective (darker) planes. I am not fond of cluttered collage so I aim for simplicity and understated in most of my collage work. When I create my collages, I've always got some kind of storyline running through my head as I work. I hope the viewer can catch a thread of that story without me having to whack them on the head with it.

I also keep a visual journal which is exactly what it sounds like - a journal with a focus on imagery and expression.

Lastly, I work with doll photography, specifically photographing a doll (made back in 1972 and reissued in the last decade) called Blythe.

What do you find visually stimulating right now? Any local artists that we need to keep an eye on?

Because I've moved around a lot in recent years, I've really depended on the internet to keep connected to art and artists. Etsy.com is a tremendous place for finding new art and artists and lots of inspiration and stimulation, as is flickr.com. As for local artists, because I live in Suffolk and am involved in the arts community here, I am most knowledgeable about the artists here including Sandy Lupton, Jill Tiderman, Brenda Wright, Nancy Kinzinger, and Angelia Armstrong. Interesting works can be found at Shooting Star Gallery and The Red Thread Studio, and the Suffolk Museum all located in historic downtown Suffolk. Erik Murray, who won the Suffolk Museum's juried show last year, paints huge canvases and murals – I don't think he's from Suffolk, but he has exhibited here – I love his mermaid paintings. You may already be familiar with the creative people at 7 Cities Crafters (formerly the Norfolk Craft Mafia). On etsy.com (and at local shows), you'll find the talented crafters and artists of the Hampton Roads Artisans Street Team (HRAST).

What other artists or movements inform your work/aesthetics/sensibilities?

I am interested in and inspired by the work of Italian painter Amadeo Modigliani. His artwork is often overshadowed by the story of his short and scandalous life, but I'm not really interested in that. I am moved by his portraits which feature solitary figures staring straight ahead through the canvas, and minimal background. I like how his figures have exaggerated features such as long necks and large eyes. I also like the work of Gustav Klimt – his use of pattern and rich golden colors, not to mention the passionate subject matter. As for collage and mixed media, I am inspired by more contemporary artists such as Karenann Young; the older, collage work of Claudine Hellmuth (out of D.C.); Sarah Ahearn (of New York); Katie Kendrick (Pacific Northwest - Oregon, I think?); and the visual journals of Juliana Coles (of New Mexico).

If there were no financial limits whatsoever for you, what constraints would you most like to overstep? Are there other mediums you would explore?

If there were no financial limits, I would love to own my own gallery. I have lots of ideas and enjoy promoting and encouraging other artists, so running a gallery would be a dream come true. For my own artwork, I'd love to have a studio in the mountains or on a beach or a loft in a city, where I could spend time creating and experimenting with art supplies without feeling guilty because I don't have a "real" job. I'd love the opportunity to spend a summer at an artist's retreat or colony such as Yaddo (though with Yaddo, money isn't the object, but applying and being selected is). As for other mediums, I would love to do a really big installation piece! That would be so cool!

Did you grow up in Virginia? (If not, when / why did you move here?)

I am originally from Southern California. When I was 8, my family moved to Saudi Arabia where my Dad worked for an American company. I used to feel sad that I didn't stay in one place growing up, but now I am grateful to my parents that we got to live outside the U.S. and see different places, experience a different culture. When I was 13 we moved back to California where I lived until six years ago when my husband's job brought us to the east coast. We've lived in Virginia since late 2005 and we'd very much like to stay here, mostly because I'm lazy and don't want to move again (I hate packing and unpacking), but also because I genuinely like it here and have made really good friends.

Do you do gallery shows?

I've had a few pieces in galleries in Suffolk, but haven't participated in any shows this year. I hope to do more of that in Suffolk and elsewhere this coming year. Having my own show is definitely something I aspire to.

What is your current favorite creation?

I did this sailboat collage/illustration for Illustration Friday a few months ago. I am so pleased with it because I completely lost track of time while creating it and it features a mix of all the elements I like to use in my work (simple pencil drawing, favorite "found" papers for collage, distressed paint application).

How much do you think hype affects the public perception of what good art is?

Outside of art-centric circles, I think hype definitely affects public perception of what good art is. People are intimidated by art the way they are with poetry. Whether this is the fault of artists and poets themselves who like to feel superior, teachers, or high-brow art galleries, the general public has been made to feel stupid about art (and poetry). Hype spoon feeds people opinions about art – it takes the pressure off of the individual to state an opinion that might bring ridicule. This is sad. I also think, just generally, that our popular culture right now is very celebrity-focused and that applies to the arts as well. Human nature says people will be attracted to what's hyped - people are curious and want to know what the fuss is all about.

Last CD bought, downloaded or stole?

The last song I downloaded was L-O-V-E by Nat King Cole. For some reason I had the song in my head (not sure how it got there) and I found it on itunes in a Martini Mix playlist. It is so retro and Nat has such a smooth voice. The last CD I downloaded was Firecracker by The Wailin' Jennys. I haven't listened to the whole thing yet, but I couldn't resist a band called The Wailin' Jennys.

Why do you think so many people spend money on music but don't buy much REAL art?

Price for one thing. Let's face it, you can buy a few songs on itunes for the change you have in your pocket. Art is usually going to cost more than that. Music is also portable - you can take it with you everywhere. Art, unless it is a utilitarian piece, is something static; you may look at it everyday, but you generally aren't carrying it around with you.

People look at the prices for original art, and balk. Also I think a lot of non-artist buyers don't understand the work that goes in to creating a piece of art (which is why I'm a big fan of open studios - people can see artists working, see what goes into it).

Pricing art is really hard for most artists I know. You have to charge what the piece is worth to you (time, materials, meaning) but at the same time, some artists price their work way outside what most people can reasonably afford. I was at an art museum in the country recently and some of the paintings (oils on massive canvases) were priced at $10,000. That just isn't realistic for most people. Maybe in New York? Every artist needs to strike a balance with their pricing. The general public, on the other hand, needs to understand the difference between something that is original, one-of-a-kind, and made by hand and something pumped out by a factory overseas. There is a distinct difference and we all should be willing to pay a little more for something special. This is why I love etsy.com so much. There are so many handmade items (both fine art and utilitarian crafts) in price points to fit every budget. If you haven't seen etsy.com, go check it out. You can still shop local - just search for artists in Hampton Roads (or specific cities).

How do you think the local scene is doing? How would you change it?

I'm not well versed in the local Norfolk art scene. I live in Suffolk and find the artistic community here full of diverse talent and tons of heart – they need people to make the drive and see what they have to offer. It's interesting to me how people in other areas of Hampton Roads perceive Suffolk - as if it is in the back of beyond. It's really not. It takes me 15 minutes to get from Northern Suffolk to Ghent. If I could change anything it would be to encourage people to foster a willingness to travel out here and see what we have to offer. Suffolk is a great balance of old (architecture, history) and new (art galleries, a cultural arts center, a sushi bar, a wood-fire pizza place, a coffee place). The more support we get, the more we can change and grow and modernize and have even more to offer.

Last Book you read?

I reread Lonesome Dove by Larry McMurtry.

What's your favorite local restaurant to eat at?

I eat at Java 149 in downtown Suffolk at least twice a week for lunch. They recently changed ownership and have redecorated - it's roomier and lighter but still retains it's funky, casualness. And the food is really good - salads, soups, wraps, coffee! They've kept the classic Java menu items and added a lot of new ones. I {heart} Java 149. And I {heart} supporting local, independent businesses.

Quote us your favorite song lyrics. (please include who it is by)

I'm no kid in a kid's game
I did what I did, I've got no one to blame
But I don't give up, no, I don't ever give up
It's all I've got, it's my claim to fame

I'm no fighter but I'm fighting
This whole world seems uninviting
But I don't give up, no, I don't ever give up
I fall down sometimes, sometimes I come back flying

From "I Don't Ever Give Up" by Patty Griffin

What's your worst habit?

I pick my cuticles. Sorry, gross. Seriously though, my hands are all torn up from all the paint and glue and from this cuticle thing. Sadly, this means I have no future as a hand model.

What irritates you?

Being from California and living in mostly hot climates my whole life, I still find dressing for colder weather a hassle. I don't like wearing a bulky coat in the car (with the heater running) but it's too cold to not wear a coat when leaving the car, so I'm constantly putting on and taking off my coat. Sometimes I just skip a coat altogether.

What has been your greatest success?

I don't know if I've had one great success. I've been fortunate to have a lot of neat experiences and I consider them collectively a success. I've traveled to places I never thought I'd see. I've met interesting people and had the chance to share my art and creativity with other people through publishing. I'm always profoundly humbled when someone purchases artwork I've created or leaves a note on my blog. I've been married for 13 years - I consider that a success.

What has been your greatest setback?

I wasted a big chunk of time waiting for other people to validate my path in life. I'm glad I got over that, but I wish I had gotten over it sooner.

The business side of being an artist: how do you market/promote yourself, and does it work? How do you cope?

I have a shop on etsy.com where I sell my work. I promote my shop via the internet in venues such as flickr and twitter and in etsy.com's community forums. I teach classes in Suffolk and Courtland and publish articles in art/craft magazines. Placing an ad on a prominent etsy-related site yielded my best financial results, but the ad was too expensive to maintain. I also have a blog, but I don't do a lot of promoting there. All of this collectively is how I promote myself. These strategies work fairly well ... my main problem is making new and more stuff. My creativity resists being treated like a manufacturing line - I need to find a way of working that is both productive and sensitive to my creative process. I am sure I could be more aggressive, but I also have limits as to what I'm willing to do in the name of promotion. I never want to become the equivalent of the annoying Mary Kay lady who talks shop all the time and constantly throws products at people.

Being a self-taught artist can often feel isolating. Sometimes I feel like my own cheerleader. I cope pretty well - I am good at encouraging myself, but, of course, I do get discouraged. I need to learn how to ask for encouragement from others. That's hard. It feels so ... whiny and needy. The best coping tool I have is just to keep on keeping on. If I'm feeling discouraged I just set everything aside for a bit. A little time away from art usually recharges my batteries and I'm ready to dive back in.

How would like to see the local artistic community change? Or how would you like to get involved in the local artistic community?

I'll just repeat what I mentioned above which is, I'd really love to see support for the Suffolk art scene from the other cities in the area. I'd also like to see all galleries in Hampton Roads include more abstract, mixed media, folk art, and outsider art (and artists) in their shows. For me personally, I really want to spend more time exploring the art scene in Norfolk and Virginia Beach (and elsewhere, locally). I'd love to help the local art community however I am needed - happy to teach classes, review a show in my blog, bake cookies - whatever is needed, just let me know!

What is your earliest art memory?

In second grade my school had a St. Patrick's Day poster contest and I drew a poster with leprechauns frolicking under a rainbow. All the leprechauns were drinking McDonald's Shamrock Shakes! My poster took second prize. I'm still pretty thrilled about this!

How would you like to be remembered as an artist?

I can't think of anything profound to say here. I don't really care if people remember me, personally, but I hope people who purchase my work are moved by it. I hope it speaks to them in some personal way, and makes them feel something.

Weblinks

Main Website:

http://www.jeannineperegrine.com

Etsy Shop:

http://jperegrine.etsy.com

Trunkt Portfolio:

http://www.trunkt.org/jeannineperegrine

Artist: Scott Steely

2009-01-08T18:51:00.000-08:00

The following feature was conducted and produced by the MC7C duo. Do Not copy+paste this anywhere! Direct link to it!

INTERVIEW

Are you from Virginia or did you relocate here? Where did you grow up?

No, I'm not a native Virginian; however I've lived in and around the 7 cities for the last five years including Portsmouth , Norfolk , Hampton , and Newport News . What originally brought me here like so many others is the Military. I was born in Houston , TX but moved around a lot. I have also lived in Caracas , Venezuela when I was young, and Bangkok , Thailand for about four years.

You are currently out of the country, where are you? Why?

As of right now, I am off the Coast of Trinidad, a small island in the Caribbean . Recently we have also been to Haiti , Cuba , Santo Domingo , and Curaco. The USS Kearsarge, the ship I am stationed on is currently on a mission to build relations between the United States and Central and South America . As a photographer my occupation provides me with new and interesting scenery every port of call we visit.

What have you learned about yourself being in another country?

I am curious about other cultures. I really enjoy seeing what other people do on a daily basis from other countries. For example in Europe there is an overall slower atmosphere. Rarely is anyone rushed or in a hurry to get somewhere like here in the US . In the Middle East they pray several times a day. I remember walking down the street and all of a sudden hearing loud speakers broadcasting Islamic prayers. I've learned that one of the easiest ways to fit in overseas is to try what ever the locals are eating/ drinking.

Do you have a particularly favorite (photo/ painting) you have created and why is it your favorite?

That's a tough one. I have a few that I would like to talk about actually.

The Norfolk Scope photograph is my most popular. It strikes me as very visually stimulating, and almost alien looking structure. It took a few attempts a various apertures and shutter speeds before all the aspects came together how I wanted. Sometimes overcast and generally dreary days add an omonus element to an otherwise normal photo.

"Toilets !" is a great one. My goal with this shot was to portray the most grungy, dilapidated photo I could. The rust textures are what initially attracted me to this scene. The sense of decay is almost overwhelming.

"New York Panorama" This was very technical photograph I'm proud of. I enjoyed piecing the 15 shots together as much as I did taking the actual photo. It's from a vantage point that I know not many people get to see. I attempted to capture as much as I could down to the little details to share the experience.

" Spiral Bridge " is my personal favorite. Some photographers shy away from this amount of photo manipulation, as you can see I take a different approach.

What about photography captivated your interest?

There are multiple things about photography that appeal to me. The combination of the technical aspect and creative expression are what I enjoy most about it.

What advice would you give to a person interested in becoming a professional photographer?

I wish I could, If you hear any good advice let me know...

Tell us about your experiences getting started as a professional photographer.

Promoting your art is very important. Groups like MC7C offer a great way to share your art with others. The city of Norfolk has a Cultural Affairs department that is constantly helping out local artists. The Stockley Gardens Arts Festival in the Ghent area of Norfolk comes around every May and October and is also a great way to get you artwork out.

Do you prefer working with digital or film cameras? Why?

My first Camera was an old second hand film Pentax. What I liked best about film was the final outcome was always a surprise. I remember after developing the negatives seeing what I had captured for the first time was fun for me. There are definitely some photographers who shoot exclusively in film and I admire their discipline. I on the other hand, embrace the digital darkroom. There are just so many possibilities for editing that are either very time consuming and difficult or impossible to do with an entirely analog setup.

Can you tell us about your technical process.(camera type/ photo editing programs)

Sure, this is probably my favorite part of my creative process. First, I shoot a Canon Digital Rebel STi, with a Tamron 18-250mm lens. I use a tripod about 90% of the time. There are two parts to my process, after I have determined a good candidate for photographing. I shoot almost exclusively in what is known as High Dynamic Range . The general idea is that the human eye can see a much wider range of light than the chip on a digital camera can record. Everything in photography revolves around light or the absence of it. To capture a higher light range on the camera the most common method is to take a bracket of photographs at different exposures then combine them in post processing, the second part of my method.

Once I have multiple photos of the same subject at different shutter speeds I use a few different applications to combine them. Photomatix is very good at this. I then bring the composite into Photoshop (where you can also combine photos into HDR) and adjust tonal color curves, highlights and shadows, saturation and various other parts of my pictures. I use a lot of trial and error in making adjustments and often spend upwards of a few hours tweaking the final image until I'm satisfied.

There are a number of different tutorial on this technique on the internet if you are interested in HDR.

Can you tell us about your creative process. How do you come up with ideas for photo shoots and shots?

I generally set out with a goal to take as many pictures as I can of the most interesting things that catch my eye from as many different perspectives as I can. Once I have found a composition I like, I then try as many combinations of ISO, shutter speed, and aperture until I feel that I have enough to work with. After that I sit down and sort through everything I took to find good candidates for editing.

What are predominating concerns as an artist, and how do you express them?

The interaction of man made things and natural occurring forces are very powerful images to me. How everything we own or make is in a constant state of reverting back to its original and natural form. I try to express this by capturing a moment in time where this struggle is occurring.

What do you want to photograph that you've not yet shot?

Definitely more photo shoots involving urban exploration. I'm fascinated by anything deserted, or abandoned.

Can you think of a particularly fun client or project that you've had?

Photographing Jerusalem was a great and very unique experience for me. It is one of the oldest cities in the world. Everywhere you look is history. Visually speaking there are huge contrasts in the landscape as well. One side is a barren desert the other side is a fertile valley.

What about a really boring project that you did just to pay the rent?

I'm not a huge fan of portraits. Unfortunately this is the sort of work most people would like done.

What are your present works about? How would you describe your work?

Recently I have accumulated lots of photos from the Caribbean . I have noticed that tropical landscapes complement the HDR process. It really intensifies the vegetation. It's always hard to describe your own work, but if I had to assign a word to it, it would be: hyper-reality

What other interests do you have? (besides photography)

Being a technophile I'm drawn to anything new or experimental that helps the user create something in a digital medium. I enjoy using software synthesizers like Propellerhead's Reason. Rendering scenes in various 3D programs is fun. Editing and composing short videos has been a hobby of mine for long time.

What artists have influenced you, and how?

Trey Ratcliff aka "Stuck in Customs" and Ben Willmore in my opinion are two of the best HDR photographers I have seen. This type of image was largely unheard of ten years ago and it's people like these that are bringing this art form mainstream.

Any local artists or bands we need to check out?

Mensura is a pretty cool death metal band I heard at Budda's Place last year. I wish I could remember more. It's been a while since I've been to any events.

What's the most played song on your iPod (or an equivalent music playing device) in the past week?

I have a fairly large amount of MP3s, and I usually keep my iPod on random. I recommend a group called Birdy Nam Nam. Depending on my mood I will listen to anything from some great Drum and Bass like Photek to something more mellow and mainstream like the Raconteurs.

What came first, the art or the misery? Explain.

They came at the same time. They paradoxily coexist and are intertwined. It all depends on who's point of view is in question and at what time. With that being said I don't think Van Goe or Picasso would have been happy and well adjusted if they had chosen a different career like used car salesman. Their misery inspired them to create masterpieces. On the other hand who's to say that creating the art itself was not miserable for them?

What do you think of what MC7C does? How would you make it better? Have you been to any of our events?

I think MC7C is great initiative for local artists. They are helping bring cultural awareness to the area as well as helping local artists. It's a win win situation for everyone. The only way I would improve MC7C is by increasing the audience size and diversity by promoting more. I have not been to any events yet but I plan to in the very near future.

LINKS

Scott Steely's flickr page

Artist: Paula Burgoon

2009-01-08T18:50:00.000-08:00

The following feature was conducted and produced by the MC7C duo. PLEASE, do not copy+paste this into your page. Direct link to it!

And now, Paula Burgoon.

:INTERVIEW:

Are you from Virginia or did you relocate here? Where did you grow up?

I am not from Virginia. I am actually a Navy wife. I grew up in the Twin Cities - went to college in Madison, WI. I have also lived in MI, FL, OK, MS, and CA. Norfolk is the best so far, however. But deep down inside I believe I have never lived in my hometown. I think I belong in Amsterdam or in NYC.

Do you have a particularly favorite (photo/ painting) you have created and why is it your favorite?

TOUGH question. I fall in love with many of my photos, hence my blog name, Crushaholic. And, just as quickly as I fall in love, I also quickly get bored. Only the best of the best remain my favorite over time. I suppose I have a list of 25 or so that are in that easily category - maybe even more. This particular shot of the birds half a block from Times Square is my current favorite shot. It was a quick-thinking snap but those birds really caught my eye. I adore the Stomp sign and tall buildings. Even in New York City the birds hang out in large groups. Technically, the precision and sharpness of my latest lens purchase blow me away in this shot. I believe this one will span the test of time in my book...

What about photography captivated your interest?

I have spent much of my adult life living in the shadow of my very successful husband. Following him from duty station to duty station, putting up with his unpredictable schedule, and spending YEARS of my married life alone as he is deployed forced me to put my own dreams and aspirations aside in the beginning. But as he felt glory in his work (he is an F/A-18 pilot) I felt invisible in the background. It was harder and harder to find happiness in every day life compared with a man who was living his dream. That dichotomy became unbearable. Photography was something I could do for myself. But I had to tear it out of myself. I originally started with photography quite a while back while in my early 20's but never knew what on Earth to shoot. The idea of it was fantastic but I was completely paralyzed and afraid to experiment. Film, developing, money were always an issue. When my son was born, I became the classic 'Mom With a Camera'. It really opened the door for me to practice. I always had a model and could spend hours experimenting and playing with my digital images. What started as something fun and something I seemed to have an 'eye' for quickly grew into obsession. I knew I was getting somewhere fabulous when I decided to start shooting things that did not have a model in them. That is where my true art lies. How do I now explain what I love about photography? I love to look at the very same thing as everyone else with my naked eye and yet see it in a completely different and magical way through my lens. I guess you could say that at the root of my art --- I love to make something out of nothing. But if nothing else, I love being very, very good at something. It is wonderful to be proud of my creations. Even if I am not saving the world from terrorists I am enhancing our world with beauty.

What advice would you give to a person interested in becoming a professional photographer?

Figure out what kind of photographer do you want to be. A technical and business-oriented photographer? or an artist? or the gray area in between? The advice for each is very different. I find most of the photographers I know fall into the technical and business oriented side. I truly cannot speak for what it takes to be a technical and business-oriented photographer. I can offer advice if your driving force is to create beautiful art and you would like to work your way toward the gray area in between:

Master your craft. With the availability of digital cameras these days, it seems EVERYONE fancies themselves a photographer. It takes more than a handle on the technical aspects to create a truly remarkable photograph.
Don't buy a camera with the intention of earning the money back to justify the expense. This is a pitfall I see many people make. Admit that this is not a cheap hobby but one worth investing in. Do it because you love it.
Learn your camera inside and out. Don't be afraid of it. But expect that it will take a long time to be comfortable and that is okay.
Learn everything you can - reading books, online classes, practice, practice, practice.
Once you have it, guard your talent. People will eat you up if you let them. Everyone wants something for free.
Experiment. Try new and crazy ideas.
Start small and let it grow. It takes a lot of work - a lot of practice - a lot of dedication - to make your work stand out from the crowd.
Dig deep. Learn about who you are and what you love.
Never emulate someone elses style. Find your own.
Learn what makes a photograph technically correct. Once you know that, get out of the box.
View lots and lots of other photographs and determine what about it makes it interesting and successful.
Share your work. Being an artist without an audience is very lonely.
Don't be afraid to be different.
Follow your heart.

Quite frankly what I would rather do is teach clients to see the difference between mundane technical work and beautiful artistic work. If only more people appreciated it.

Tell us about your experiences getting started as a professional photographer.

I just did it. I jumped in and did it. I am not sure that was the right way. I put a lot of unnecessary pressure on myself at the beginning and I have faced some heartache over the years. Taking photos of other people was a very scary step that I had to overcome. I still get nervous every time. But I follow my heart and to me that is vital. My goal is not to become rich or to create a lifestyle-sustaining business. My goal is to find who I am through my art and make some money so I can keep expanding my horizons. Hopefully the world will find what I have to share interesting. It is a scary path and one that is quite different than the average business oriented photographer. Only I can find the right answers for ME.

Do you prefer working with digital or film cameras? Why?

I use digital digital digital. I love digital. It totally meshes with my off-the-cuff reactionary and experimental style of photography. I love to respond to what I see, take the image back to my computer and apply whatever effects I find necessary to make the image really POP. I have played with Holgas in the past and I adore the look they have. But ultimately I am a geeky computer digital girl. Manipulating my digital work to emulate the bits and pieces I have seen is ultimately my goal.

Don't believe anyone who suggests digital is cheaper. I have spent amazing amounts of cash on computers, displays, software, hard drives, memory, etc. The beauty of digital is that there are no dollars ticking with each snap of the shutter. Guilt-free experimentation and immediate feedback. If I didn't have digital I don't believe I would have the guts to snap photos behind me while I ride a bike on vacation.

Can you tell us about your technical process.(camera type/ photo editing programs)

Technical perfection is NOT the key to my photography. It is merely a piece of the bigger puzzle. With that in mind I happen to shoot with some of the industry's top of the line equipment. I use the Nikon D3 and wide angle lenses most of the time. My most recent purchase was the Nikon 14-24mm 2.8 lens. It is phenomenal. However, what I loved the most about one of my previous wide angle lenses was its technical IMPERFECTIONS. I also love using lensbabies. I prefer to use natural light when I am on location although I have created a studio space in my home where I dabble with lighting and backdrops. I shoot in RAW as it is incredibly forgiving. Attempting to nail the exposure straight out of the camera is vital but when the scene is unfolding quickly it is not always possible. One of the most important things I have done is create a workflow of actions in photoshop to handle my images. I try to maintain a certain continuity to them. I process each image one by one to achieve my 'look' but I tend to do the same thing to every photo. I believe that you MUST be a computer geek to be a successful digital photographer. Digital just doesn't cut it straight out of the camera and quite frankly, half the fun is doing 'cool stuff' in photoshop for me. Often I take my technically-perfect photo and manipulate it to look as though it was taken with an old beat up plastic camera!

Can you tell us about your creative process. How do you come up with ideas for photo shoots and shots?

My favorite work is travel and city photography. I go into my zone. My best ideas usually pop into my head and I am executing them seconds later. I am a very spontaneous person. I tend to respond to what I see versus planning in advance. I do have certain locations I like to go as I know they will be a sure thing for lighting for portrait shoots. But when I am shooting for myself I love to wander around and just snap at whatever catches my eye. I am always on the look out for fabulous light or interesting color. For me this is a wonderful way to keep my technical edge razor sharp. On the streets the light is forever changing. You have to act fast to get the right image. It is excellent practice for learning to quickly nail your exposure each time.

What are predominating concerns as an artist, and how do you express them?

Over the years, THE most important thing in my work is breaking out of the group. Pushing the limits and pushing myself to get better and better. Whether I am taking photos of clients or taking photos for myself my goal is to make my photos ME - make them recognizable. Something about ME goes into everything I do. I think I was the last person to realize I had achieved this. In fact, I found myself stunned to hear that I was successful in creating a style.

What do you want to photograph that you've not yet shot?

I dream of travel/street work - For year and years I had dreamed of going to Paris and to NYC. I have seen both of those cities in the past 4 months. But I did not get enough. I am ready to go back! I now dream of going everywhere! More cities! More places! I am strongly pushing for my husband's next set of orders to be in Germany. With that I plan to travel all over Europe on the weekends. You never know - maybe after three years in Europe I will do something similar in Asia.....

Can you think of a particularly fun client or project that you've had?

Of course, anything that involves street work is my favorite but so far I haven't found a way to market it. ;-) In terms of paying jobs, I did commercial photos for a client who sews vintage aprons named Sassy Smox. This is actually one of the few concept projects I have ever done and it was a blast! I loved the freedom to be creative. The models (the client and her family) were perfect and we had a great time creating the 'desperate housewife' shots.

What about a really boring project that you did just to pay the rent?

I haven't had any 'boring' projects as I am very particular about what type of work I will accept. With that in mind, just about anything that involves posing happy families is totally outside my personal taste..... Product photography is pretty boring, also.

What are your present works about? How would you describe your work?

Most of my images have a sense of 'time and place'. They also feel a little dreamy. I snap shots of unexpected beauty and gorgeous light. I adore taking the photo that everyone else walked passed. Because of my introverted-nature and off-the-cuff style I tend to seek deeper significance in my images AFTER they have been taken. It is almost as though my subconscious has a plan while out snapping which it has to share later with the rest of me! I love to sit and study them on the screen after the fact and tie them together based on my personal experiences. Most of my work revolves around my experience in the world - seeking out my own creative spirit. However, my current project deals with smoke and mirrors - the false front that I see so many people hide behind.

What other interests do you have? (besides photography)

I tend to only focus on a couple of things at a time. And, I am the mom of a 'spirited' 6 year old which is rather amazing and exhausting. And, as I mentioned I am a navy wife so I am often a single parent. Between photography and parenting and home-owning, most of my attention is taken. However, I love to run, bike, travel, decorate, read.

What artists have influenced you, and how?

Henri Carter-Bresson and David Hockney are the biggest names I can put with my influence. Henri's brilliance in adding the human touch is always going through my head as I shoot. And, Hockey's composites blow me away. I am a book hound and I own lots of books on photography, graphic design, and crafts. My ultimate favorite book so far is called Elements of Photography by Angela Faris Belt and features quite a number of stunningly AMAZING photographers. She is one of the very few authors who is writing on that wonderful gray area between technical and artistic photography. I adore her influence and the artists she has chosen to feature. It makes me so happy I can almost cry. In the end, I admit that the daily inspiration I get from thousands of nameless artists on flickr are ultimately my biggest influence. Scanning through the images in 'Explore' and finding which ones pop out at me has pushed me to create better and better work, myself.

What do you think of the current trend of tattooed, alternative nearly (or fully) naked models such as Suicide Girls or various other alterna sites? Do you think it has a negative or positive effect on photography?

I honestly had to google it to know what it was. Much of what I saw from a photographic point of view was fascinating and beautiful although I am 35 so that makes me 15 years past the age this is geared toward. I love the look of grunge and tattoos in photographs and I have seen it done beautifully in the past by other artists. I would suggest this site doesn't have a positive OR negative effect on PHOTOGRAPHY as a whole. It just IS. I would be more concerned about the effect is has on young girls than photography. It is very hard to grow up as a confident woman in our society and I believe that expanding what is considered beautiful is fabulous. However, a few of the over-sexed up photos remind me that many women only feel they are beautiful if they are being sexual. There is a fine line between artistic and trashy, edgy and feeding voyeurism. By putting a name and philosophy about the girls I feel it cheapens the overall feel of the site - as if it is a store and I get to buy one of them. I find that distasteful. And, while I do not believe it is *wrong* to cross this line, I feel it sums up empty American consumerism. It saddens me. I only hope the girls are doing it for the right reasons and that their experience as a model is truly feeding their spirit.

Any local artists or bands we need to check out?

One of the most talented photographers I have met, Rich-Joseph Facun (http://facun.com), actually took a well-known photo of my son. After meeting him I googled him and discovered his work that is not affiliated with the Virginian-Pilot. It is stunning. However, he recently relocated to Dubai!
Another VERY talented photographer I have met moonlights as a furniture salesman at EQ3 in MacArthur. Paul Jeffreys PaulJeffreysphoto.com
I have a friend who has just started making hand-crafted clay jewelry. Her work is bold and beautiful. I adore it. I actually did some photos for her.

What's the most played song on your iPod (or an equivalent music playing device) in the past week?

I will admit I have been sitting in silence more often than not. I have had a lot going on lately - angst in the household - and I just feel I need peace so I may relax. I have even been turning my iPod in my car off!!!! which is unheard of, in my opinion. But the song going through my head the most lately has been 'Let Go' by FrouFrou.

What came first, the art or the misery? Explain.

OH the misery!! for sure! I swear I have had so much angst built up inside that is trying to be heard and be understood and shared and needs to get out! Years ago I used to sit on my couch almost CRYING not knowing how to get my angst out! Only in the past months do I truly feel like I have my look and style where I want it. But I am always growing and changing and learning. I realize I have a LOT to learn and I am only now daring to venture into new territory. I am sure what I will be producing years down the line will feel ultimately like what I was meant to create and what I am doing now is just dabbling until the real inspiration comes!

What do you think of what MC7C does? How would you make it better? Have you been to any of our events?

I think MC7C is fantastic! What a wonderful service to the art community. Norfolk has a lot of growing to do in this department and I am thankful for MC7C for leading the way!

LINKS

Paula Burgoon online

Band: Mild Davis

2009-01-08T18:48:00.000-08:00

I'm rather stoked to introduce to you an act that many of you may never heard of, but probably will in the future. Mild Davis.

Don't copy+paste this feature! Direct link to it! Give us credit for our work!

:INTERVIEW:

Did you grow up in Hampton Roads? If so, what cities?

1. yup. i grew up in Newport News . When I graduated from Warwick in 98, I moved to Chapel Hill to go to school at UNC and have been down here for ten years, working for an indie record label for past five years. I loved it there and I've still got lots of friends and family in the area. I still get back up that way a few times a year to get my fix of VA.

Describe your music to someone who has never heard it.

2. my music is meant to be fun and to mesh together bits and pieces of all the different kinds of music i love. I listen to lots of indie rock, dance musc, downtempo and hip hop and i like to include elements from all of those into my songs. i think the mixing of textures gives my music a unique feel. putting together elements of live production andsequenced tracks is my attempt to push the boundaries of what can be called hip hop. i'm also lucky enough to have a wealth of talented musicians as friends and working with them offers me a chance to dabble in new genres and new soundscapes.

But there is always that undercurrent of Mild Davis in all the tracks. I like my drums crisp, my samples well chopped, my bass slow and low and my keys light and fluffy.

What's the writing process for your music? Do the lyrics come first? Does the music come first? Who does what?

3.the writing process differs with every track. I do lots of remixes for bands and mc's and i always try to strip out what i think are the best parts of the song and build the rest from scratch. When it comes to original songs, i tend to find a sample or a melody that works as a foundation and then i build the drums to suit the feel of the track. In collaborations with other artists, I like to work in tandum to build a song that reflects both of our personalities. i think you can tell when artists are into each other's music and are able to come together to build something new and vibrant.

Do you have an albums / demos / merch / releases available to purchase? Where can you buy them?

4. i'm in the finishing stages of wrapping up my first proper LP that will be titled, COTTON CANDY CLOUDS AND LEMONDROP LIGHTNING. it will be 12 original tracks and will feature guest appearances from Astronautalis, Josh Nowlan of the band Cities, Juan Huevos, Gut Lightning, MC Gouki from Tokyo and a handful of other guest musicians. the record will be a co-release between my crew, Extensive Enterprise , and Brooklyn-based label, Black Box Mixtapes. There are a handful of Mild Davis remixes on iTunes, including tracks i've done for The Aples in Stereo, North Elementary, The Holy Sons and Cities. Also i have one release available on iTunes called SQUARE WON. it's a mixtape that i made in 2005 and features original remixes of tracks by pharoah monche, little brother, the pharcyde, aesop rock and several others.

What is your most crazy show story? (Any naked women running around? Drunk bar fights?)

5. as a studio producer, i've just recently decided to take the mild davis show on the road. i'm in the works of putting together a live set of all new, original material. it will feature me doing my thing with an akai mpd32, a keyboard, at technic 1200 and a mixer, a few loop pedals and a laptop. if all goes well, it should end up being an experience like seeing a bastard mix of dj shadow and girl talk. i'll be banging out drums and stabs on the mpd, scratching on the 1200 and looping sounds to build tracks. you can expect lots of layers, dope beats and samples that will get the crowd shaking their ass.

How much do you think hype affects the public perception of what good music is?

6. lets face it, hype is the name of the game. people look to blogs, radio stations and magazines as trendsetters. the right image and degree of hype can be the difference in a project that goes national or never leaves home. honestly, i think the artists that achieve that degree of fame so quickly miss out on the experience of building their name in an organic way through hard work and making contacts. it's been my experience that artists who are conscious of their image and work to craft it in a specific way are the ones who tend to last the longest and have the most promising careers. we would all love to have a great review in pitchfork or get spun on KEXP, but i don't think that is the key to success.

getting caught up in the hype machine may help you get noticed, but if you don't have an original sound and a style that fans can relate to, it won't matter a bit. music fans are smart and they can smell a phony a mile away. i can name a thousand bands and artists that have enjoyed the full glow of indie hype but ended up as flashes in the pan. your 15 minutes don't last as long as they used to. i think that the rise of mixtapes and eps have helped artists bridge the gap between albums and, in some cases, even boosted their profile in the interim. think lil wayne or clipse. those cats are masters of hype.

How would you like to see the local music scene change? (venues, fans, other bands)

7. i'm pretty spoiled to live in Chapel Hill which has a long thriving music scene. we're lucky enought to have a handful of great venues that cater to all levels of artists. the cat's cradle is about an 800 cap and brings big name acts to town. in addition, we have the Local 506, which brings in great mid-level bands and the nightlight which showcases small, but great shows in a used book/record store. so, despite if you are into popular artists or obscure bands, you can always find a show to suit your fancy. we also have a great local music scene. you can't throw a rock in chapel hill and not hit someone who is in a band. we have everything from indie rock to hip hop and all stops in between. what makes it even better is that the bands mix and match for live shows.

it's not uncommon to see an mc opening for a metal band or some other quirky mix of sounds. the local scene is a big part of why i live here. i'm lucky, and i know it.

What's up for the band in 2008? ( a tour, album?)

8. like i said, i have COTTON CANDY CLOUDS & LEMONDROP LIGHTNING coming out early next year and i'm getting ready to start playing live. other than that, i'm really excited to be in the opening phases of getting our crew up and running. we're called extensive enterprises (www.extensiveent.net) and the group consists of juan huevos (www.myspace.com/juanhuevos) and production duo gut lightning (www.myspace.com/gutlightning). we're almost done with the website and we'll be providing the fans with tons of free music and mixtapes. the idea is to help each other get the word out about our music and help build the local hip hop scene in chapel hill.

What local bands and artists do you recommend?

9. local music! we are super lucky to have a wealth of great bands in the area. right now, here are my current faves.

JUAN HUEVOS - this guys is a fucking rock star. he's an mc whose has been at it for over a decade and just keeps getting better. he rides that line between the worlds of indie hip hop and indie rock. his shows are a who's who of the local music scene and he always packs it out. he's got the flow and the swagger of a big name rapper, but balances that with songs that everyone can relate to about girl problems, hangovers, mondays and all the trappings of daily life. but he makes it sound fresh.

COLOSSUS - if you're a fan of having your face melted, check these dudes out. they play metal, remniscent of iron maiden, and come correct with three guitars up front. most bands are lucky to have one guitar player that can shred. these guys have three. plus, they couldn't be nicer guys. in a perfect world, these guys would play every night. thankfully for my hearing, they don't.

KERBLOKI - these guys are a staple of the chapel hill music scene, and for good reason. they feature two mc's, mike and jb, and live bass and guitar. it's like these guys invented the party. every show is a damn barnstormer. i dare you not to have a good time when these guys play live. i've known them for years and the first remix i ever did was for their song, "paradise." on top of that, they just finished their new lp which was produced by local legend brian paulson who has done records with beck and slint. i can't name another band that sounds like these guys, and that is hard to say these days. so fresh!

GUT LIGHTNING - ok, i know two of these are part of the EE crew, but there is a reason i work with these guys. because they're dope. gut lightning is a duo of t.jerk and fader. they mix vintage samples and scratching and make instrumental hip hop that makes me so jealous i can't stand it. every time these guys do a new track, it stays in my cd player for at least a week. as solo artists, they both could stand strong on their own, but when the get together and activate like the wonder twins, you better watch out because they're about as good as it gets. plus, fader may be the only person i've ever met that has as much affinity for the movie 'the goonies' as i do. classic shit!

What are your favorite venues to play at? How would you like to see the available venues to change when booking shows? (better sound / lights/ pay/ promotions)

10. i hate to pick favorites, but the local 506 would have to be my choice. thank god for that place. so many bands i love would pass right by chapel hill if it weren't for the 506. glenn that runs the place is an amazing wealth of music knowledge and does a great job of booking all kinds of acts to come play. plus shows are relatively cheap there and they always have ice cold pbr! they just revamped the soundsystem and it sounds great. overall, it's just a classic rock club. unfortunately, those are getting harder and harder to come by lately. like i said earlier, we really do have a venue for everyone in this town. they all have their pros and cons, but i'd be proud to frequent any of them.

How do you market your music to the public? What seems to work best for you for letting people know about your shows? (Myspace/ the paper / word of mouth)

11. marketing in the digital age is a whole new ballgame. the internet has opened a whole new realm of ways for bands to spread their music and reach fans all around the world.

i know people shit on myspace, but it's been an amazingly useful resource and it's free. building email lists, via fanbase.com, is also a great way to keep your fans in the loop with live show updates, new music and news. radio and local press are also a great, if traditional, ways to spread the word too. instead of focusing on the stuffy daily paper, it's a great idea to seek out smaller zines, college papers and other media outlets. also, even most big radio stations will have an hour a week dedicated to live music. people do tune in there to check out what's going on around town and to find out about new artists. plus, getting in good with a handful of dedicated and motivated bloggers is a great way to get out there too. offer them exclusive tracks for download or tour announcements and it becomes a win/win situation. i just always aim to be creative and try to remember that it's all about the fans. treat them right and they do the same for you.

What is your current favorite song?

12. 'these are the best days of your life' by astronautalis. if you don't know this dude, crawl out of the cave, shave your beard, and buy his new record. it may change your life. this song is off an ep that he put out a couple of years back and i just rediscovered this track and can't stop listening. and, he'll be at the local 506 on 10/29 with kerbloki and juan huevos. i told you that place is awesome. but, seriously, go make astrounautalis your friend (www.myspace.com/astronautalis). you can thank me later.

Last CD bought, downloaded or stole?

13. i'm not going to lie. i download like blackbeard. but, if i give it more than a few spins, i'll pony up the cash and go buy it. i actually just picked up 'tha carter iii' from weezy. i figure i'm helping him buy another bentley or just contributing to the 'make it rain' fund.

Quote us your favorite song lyrics. (please include who it is by)

14. 'spit yo game, talk yo shit, grab yo gat, call yo clique' by biggie. need i say more? i didn't think so.

What came first, the music or the misery? Explain

15. misery? no way. i love music. always have. i don't create from a sad place. the last thing i want to do when i'm in a bad mood is make music. i go in the studio to make songs that i like and hope other people would like. i take pride in how far i've come from my early work and hearing that progression just makes me want to make more music.

music makes me happy, makes me think about the world and makes me excited to hear what's next. it's almost an addiciton. add to that the fact that some of my favorite musicians are my best friends and that makes my attachment to music that much stronger. misery? nah. i'll leave that for the mopey folk singers. it's kind of their thing any way, right?

What do you think of what MC7C does? How would you make it better? Have you been to any of our events?

16. i think you guys do a great job of helping to expose new music to fans. we all love a site where you can go and find out about some new sounds that you would otherwise never have heard about. i just wish there were more sites like this, honestly. thanks for taking your time to help musicians like myself get a little shine.

:WEBLINKS:

Mild Davis @ myspace

Extensive Enterprises

Band: The Sort

2009-01-08T18:16:00.000-08:00

The following feature on The Sort was conducted by the MC7C crew for this page. Don't be a prick and copy+paste it elsewhere. Direct-link to it!

Now. Onward!

:BIO:

Richmond, Va rock band The Sort formed early in 2006, starting as an intimate musical exchange of ideas between guitarist Clark Fraley and vocalist Lauralam Thomas, both formerly of Richmond's lovable "Atari-rock" band, Rockbot (project of Jack's Mannequin bassist, Jon Sullivan). Songs began to fall together as effortlessly as teenagers in love, and the two created a string of demo tracks in Clark's home studio. It wasn't long before the itch to share these songs with every smoky bar in the world struck the pair, and the search for an eager rhythm section began. It didn't take long to recruit bassist Jon Bone (ex Lazycain), and drummer Briant Murphy (ex Sau, The Tori). By late spring, the foursome had begun to play shows in and around the area. The group completed its lineup in Fall 2006 with the addition of second guitarist Steve Burner, also formerly of Rockbot.

The Sort's sound is both melodic and brutal. Razor sharp guitars take turns with urgent, exacting lyrics to keep the songs just intense enough to raise your blood pressure a bit without sending you into a full on rock seizure. Vocally, Lauralam's grasp of the joys of both control and abandon sail the rock ship home. She can employ Belinda Carlisle-meets-a-Theramin-like vibrato or play it straight ala Anna Waronker of That Dog.

The Sort's live show demonstrates the height of the band's energy, without jeopardizing the subtle idiosycrasies of their songcraft. Crushing drums make love to driving bass while guitars squeal merrily and Lauralam shakes her head around as if she is the only one in the room. "Being on stage singing these songs that we wrote is really a life-affirming experience for me", Lauralam says, "I don't like to speak much between songs because public speaking is really a terrifying thing, but the songs kind of have little lives of their own, and the energy from them really takes over any fear I might have of performing them. When the music starts, I kind of become it, and am no longer thinking about what the audience might be thinking of me." The band is excited to play just about anywhere and are happily making their local rounds, playing at almost every allowable venue in Richmond, including Alleykatz and The Canal Club, and venturing up I-95 to play at old favorites such as popular DC rock dive, The Velvet Lounge. A tour is planned for late April/early May which will take them as far north as NYC and as far West as Dayton, Ohio.

In the Summer of 2006, The Sort was approached and asked to be the subject of a HDTV show episode in a series featuring local bands. This series was sponsored by and released through Virginia Commonwealth University (VCU) in December 2006. It has aired several times each month on PBS since its premiere. The episode includes live show footage, practice footage, and studio footage, as well as group and individual interviews.

The Sort self-released their debut full length album, "Resentment, Despair, and Other Amusements", in April of 2008. "We did most of the recording and all of the production ourselves", Lauralam states, "It was no easy task, so when I tore open the box to see the final product, I nearly cried with joy."

:INTERVIEW:

Did you grow up in Hampton Roads? If so, what cities?

JON: I was born and raised on the banks of the Lafayette in Norfolk. Laura and Steve are both Richmond natives and Clark is from Lynchburg. Briant grew up in the northeast outside of a little town called Boston. We all met and currently reside in Richmond.

Describe your music to someone who has never heard it.

JON:Hmm, never an easy one so I will break it down into components.

Vocals with a strong pop sensibility, lots of hooks. Words and melodies that stick with you. The guitars range from metallic and riffy to textural and saturated, setting each other up andharmonizing effortlessly. Two words for you, son: guitar solos. A heavy handed rhythm section anchors it all while maintaining the groove and delivering the goods. I think we have a pretty big sound overall.

What's the writing process for your music? Do the lyrics come first? Does the music come first? Who does what?

JON: Clark will demo some ideas on the Mac with guitar and these over the top sounding programmed drums. He lays down the basic idea and filters it through Laura. Laura gives a nod to the tunes that strike her and we take them and start to flesh them out. Sometimes there are vocal lines written when the music is starting take shape, sometimes they come later. Once the process is complete we usually have to play a song live a few times before it really unfolds like it should.

Do you have an albums / demos / merch / releases available to purchase? Where can you buy them?

LAURALAM: Our new full length album is called "Resentment, Despair, and Other Amusements" and you can buy it at cdbaby.com, itunes, or amazon.com. T- shirts are coming very soon!

What is your most crazy show story? (Any naked women running around? Drunk bar fights?)

LAURALAM: Luckily, we haven't anything too terribly trashy transpire, although we did play a local redneck bar at the request of some friends and a couple of rather large redneck men kept harassing me and the other band members' girlfriends while we were playing. I can take it all it stride, but it must have been a sight to see us playing with the rest of the band looking like they were ready to kill someone.

JON:Aw man, we're all lovers not fighters. I would much rather have the naked women running around than dudes trying to kill each other. I probably saw enough violence in the parkinglot of the Kings Head after hardcore shows as a kid to last me a lifetime.

How much do you think hype affects the public perception of what good music is?

LAURALAM: It is both fortunate and unfortunate that "hype" affects the listener's perception. On one hand, it's nice to see many deserving bands who went unrecognized for long period of time finally get the recognition they deserve. On the flipside, many major labels are selling the same cookie cutter crap, and music becomes nothing more than a product and a trend. It's depressing.

JON:The digital age has brought so many new forms of marketing, we are being force fed media from everywhere. Thankfully there are always smart kids who are sharp enough to cut through all of the BS. You have to hope that people will see past the 700^th Panic at the Disco ad or whatever and seek out sites like yours or Pitchfork or something.

How would you like to see the local music scene change? (venues, fans, other bands)

JON: More sites and labels that support local music is absolutely the key. Oh, and more people need to come see our band.

What's up for the band in 2008? ( a tour, album?)

LAURALAM: Well, we've already toured some this year following the release of our album, so we'll probably just be playing many out-of-town weekend shows. We're shooting a video in a few days, and writing a lot of new material.

JON: New material!

What local bands and artists do you recommend?

LAURALAM: My personal favorites are Ki:Theory, One Friend, and Eons.

JON: Keep in mind these are all RVA bands. Dead Goats, Mermaid Skeletons, RPG and anything with our friend Mikey Bryant in it. Denali is back (sort of), keep an eye out for them as well.

What are your favorite venues to play at? How would you like to see the available venues to change when booking shows? (better sound / lights/ pay/ promotions)

JON: We play downtown alot at a place called Wonderland. Its a great room, cool staff and good crowds, but the location kills us. Shockoe Bottom is worse than the VB Oceanfront in the summer. It's literally a police state every weekend. I can't wait to play the National here, its run by the NorVa people and is the best looking room in the area. Better pay is always good, and maybe revision of our state laws in regards to alcohol and licensing. There are clubs thriving in DC that couldn't survive Virginia's archaic laws and regulations.

How do you market your music to the public? What seems to work best for you for letting people know about your shows? (Myspace/ the paper / word of mouth)

LAURALAM: I do use myspace to market and get the word out about shows; however, with the overload of (mostly bad) bands on myspace, the great majority of people won't take the time to listen. I try to keep our page attractive, professional, and up-to-date. I offer free downloads and little contests for free cds. People love free stuff! Still, if you only market on myspace, you're isolating a huge portion of the music-loving population. We are currently played on several radio stations around town and up and down the east coast, have had write ups in local and regional magazines, have played acoustic radio sets, and were even featured in our very own documentary put out by VCU and shown on PBS every few weeks.

What is your current favorite song?

LAURALAM: According to my itunes, the song I play the most is Imogen Heap - Hide and Seek.

JON: Blood and Thunder by Mastodon. Writing a concept record about a whale is awesome, and its so well mixed.

Last CD bought, downloaded or stole?

LAURALAM: Portishead –"Third"

JON: Beach House – "Devotion" TwoBaltimore kids with a definite 4AD vibe.

Quote us your favorite song lyrics. (please include who it is by)

JON:"Now I stand here waiting" from Blue Monday by New Order. The line by itself doesn't make much sense but in context it's clever. Bernard Sumner sings it and then does exactly that, he waits.

What came first, the music or the misery? Explain.

LAURALAM: The sex?

JON: All the musicians I know are a little off, if you know what I mean. I know that playing live definitely helps me exercise a few demons, but is music the chicken or the egg?

What do you think of what MC7C does? How would you make it better? Have you been to any of our events?

JON: Its imperative that we have sites like yours as part of local communities. Keep spreading the word and getting links out there, the more readers the better the arts will do. We haven caught an event yet because of that 90 mile stretch of I-64but we would love to be part of something in the near future. Cheers!

:LINKS:

The Sort @ Myspace

Film Maker: Trevor Wright

2009-01-08T18:13:00.000-08:00

The following feature on Mr. Trevor Wright was conducted by the MC7C crew and formatted for this page. Don't copy+paste this elsewhere! Direct link to it!

INTERVIEW

Why film compared to all other mediums of expression?

I've always loved film and can never remember a time when I haven't felt a connection with it. I never wanted to do anything else but be in film in some capacity.

Did you start in film or did you merge into film?

I actually started in Journalism. In high school I wrote for The Virginian Pilot, doing stories on teens and the community. For a long time I thought I would end up as a reporter because I had no idea in hell how I was ever going
to start a film career.
However, the reporter career was cut short when I dropped out of college. Some people just aren't college material and I was definitely one of them.
I then got an intern position working at New Dominion Pictures for about a year doing post production work. But that job wasn't paying the bills so I started working at Stihl making power tools. With the money I made doing that I
was able to talk my way into an online screenwriting course through UCLA called The Professional Program.

Do you have a favorite film you created and why is it your
favorite?

My favorite film, ironically, is the one that has yet to be produced. It's called SICK PUPPIES and it's a horror/comedy about a transsexual serial killer stalking a retired serial killer. Even though it's never been made, it was the script
that got me recognized and finally got the ball rolling on my screenwriting opportunities. So I'm very proud of that.

What about film captivated your interest?

I really don't know exactly what about it I love so much. I
just know I don't want to do anything but film.

What advice would you give to a person interested in becoming a professional screenwriter?

Take some classes, get a screenwriting program and never give up. There will be a lot of rejection before you finally get any kind of acceptance, but once you do it's the best feeling in the world.
Also, the most important thing to know is that if you want to make money -- do something else! Sure, the money is there once you go Hollywood but more than likely you'll start in the indies first -- and in the independent world almost
everyone from writers to actors to directors have other jobs to pay the bills.

Tell us about your experiences getting started as a professional screenwriter?

Once I completed the UCLA program I got a call from a producer in Hollywood who had read one of the scripts I had written and thought he could sell it to one of the big studios for an obscene amount of money. Needless to say, that never panned out and afterwards I stopped writing for about four years. That was probably the worst thing I could have done. I was at the lowest point in my life where I thought that being a writer would never ever happen. Looking back on
that time I can't remember much. It's as if I was dead to the world. Then one day I started writing again and just never stopped.

Do you prefer working with digital or film cameras? Why?

From what I hear, digital is so much easier to work with. But
personally, everything looks better on film.

Can you tell us about your technical process (writing
programs, etc.)

I'm currently using a screenwriting program called FINAL DRAFT. This is not the only one on the market, but if you want to be a screenwriter you need to have one. No one will read your stuff otherwise. Having WORD or some other program just doesn't look the same, especially if you're unsure of the correct format.
And format is everything.
I can't tell you how many scripts people have given to me, that I wanted to stop reading on page 1 because it was so poorly formatted.
A writing program runs around $200 give or take, but is the best investment a screenwriter can make.

Can you tell us about your creative process?

I think of an idea, write it down then usually just start writing the script. I'm not an outline type of person. I make notes as I go. Also, I make sure to have plenty of Skittles, Pringles and cream soda on hand.

What are predominating concerns as an artist, and how do
you express them?

I have concerns about whether I'm wasting my time writing a story that may be similar to something else coming out that I may not know about. So I try to throw enough weirdness into my script, so that even if my story is something that's been
done before, the execution and characters will be unique.

What screenwriter made you want to become one yourself?

I'm a big fan of writers like Richard Matheson, David Goyer and even Rob Zombie (probably because I'm still holding out hope that one day he'll make a good movie -- but you can't deny his passion)
I know there are many others but I can't think of anyone at the moment.

What's your favorite film?

ED WOOD and the excellent documentary AMERICAN MOVIE.

What is the worst film you've ever watched?

There are so many to choose from! I work predominately in the horror genre so there is no shortage of crap floating around out there.
Off the top of my head: FEAR.COM, BATMAN AND ROBIN, anything
by M. Night Shyamalan, the list goes on...

What do you want to film that you've not yet shot?

I still want to film my movie SICK PUPPIES. But as far as genre goes ... I would love to do a remake of something just because I don't think most people understand how to make a successful remake. The trick is NOT to remake the great movies (Halloween, Texas Chainsaw Massacre, etc.) The trick
is to remake the films that were crap to begin with.
A director and writer I admire, Alan Rowe Kelly, is doing a remake of a little 70's flick called DON'T LOOK IN THE BASEMENT, which was an awful film originally. But since everyone knows that, the only place he can go with his remake is up. He is free to add his own unique spin to it. If you can't make something your own then why bother.

Can you think of a particularly fun project that you've
had?

I had a lot of fun writing SANTA'S LIST 2, the sequel to a little short that Screamkings Productions produced last Christmas.
There wasn't a whole lot to the first one and not a lot of time to do it in (entire project from production to post was around 7 days). Some thieves break into a house and the guy who owns the place dresses up like Santa and picks them off
one by one. The sequel is bigger and better. More kills. More gore. More
laughs. And an interesting story with some cool characters.

What about a really boring project that you did just to
pay the rent?

I pay the rent from the money I earn working in a factory so I've had the luxury of writing pretty much what I want to write.
There have been assignments I've been given which I've been less than enthusiastic about, but I try to see each one as a new challenge. If I'm not interested in a particular story from the start, then I make it so I am.
If I'm having a good time with what I write then I'm hoping my audience will to.

What are your present works about? How would you describe
your work?

Presently, almost all of my works would be classified as horror. But I feel that I have a style that is all my own. I try to add humor to my characters, a compelling story and dialogue that sounds natural. I also like for things to remain grounded in some sort of reality even if the circumstances the characters find themselves in border on supernatural.

What other interests do you have?

I'm an avid reader, I like spending time with my wife, and I'm starting to enjoy traveling a lot more than I used to.

What artists have influenced you and how?

I'm influenced by various directors, writers, producers. I actually think the people who influence me the most are the people on the indie scene who I actually know. They have undeniable passion which in turn gets me even more excited
about the work I do.

Do you have any local artists or bands that we should
check out?

Sadly, no. I really hate to admit that too. This is one area that I really need to explore. There is a lot of great music out there in Hampton Roads, now I need to find it.

What advice would you give other artists just starting
out?

To never quit. I know that sounds cliche but it's the truth.
Dreams are never easy to come by, that's why they're called dreams. But like they always say, "the cream rises to the top" and if you've got the talent and desire to succeed, then that's exactly what will happen.

What's the most played song on your iPod in the past
week?

I just got a new iPod. I'm still setting it up. I know that's a cop out answer, but better that than having to admit that my iPod is filled up with Kenny Loggins.

What came first, the art or the misery? Explain.

The art definitely! I don't see how you can agonize over something until you can define what it is that you're agonizing over.

What do you think of what MC7C does? How would you make
it better? Have you been to any of our events?

I think what MC7C does is awesome! I love that there is a site that focuses on talent from our area -- and there's a hell of a lot of it! -- from musicians to artists to film makers and everyone in between. Hampton Roads has a lot to
offer! I would like to see MC7C profile more film makers in the area. I've never been to any MC7C events but I have a feeling I will be in the very near future.

SCULPTURE teaser

Links

Trevor Wright's myspace page
The Green Monster
Sculpture

Band: Stairwell Collapse

2009-01-08T18:11:00.000-08:00

The following interview was conducted by the MC7C duo and posted for this page. Do not copy+paste this; direct link to it, instead!

INTERVIEW

Did you grow up in Hampton Roads? If so, what cities? ah yes, the days of little us running the streets of hampton roads haha. I (Rick) grew up in virginia beach and Mike in chesapeake. We have spent a lot of time in Richmond VA which is considered a second home to us.

Describe your music to someone who has never heard it. imagine the sounds of water buffalo in mating season ;) honestly its just rock music, there are a ton of different labels out there for genres these days, some would say we are indie because we do have a more melodic sound. If you havn't heard us, you should check it out and let us know how you would describe it! We do have parts that feel intense but we bring it back with familiar hooks and layered vocals that sound like "the voice of a thousand angels" or so we have been told haha.

What's the writing process for your music? Do the lyrics come first? Does the music come first? Who does what? Well, we usually write a guitar riff and record it, not sure what part it is going to be in a song yet. Since we have previously written all of our songs with just the two of us, we don't have access to live drums so we use a drum sequencer on the computer to write a beat to said guitar riff. We usually play with a few ideas musically, mike will come up with a melody for the part and hums it out over the recording, lyrics usually come later. That is when we decide where the part will go in a song, because we get a good idea of the feel it has. From there we start building around it and months later, a song is born! haha.

Do you have an albums / demos / merch / releases available to purchase? Where can you buy them? Shirts! We do have shirts.. but our self-titled E.P will be added to that list of merch very soon! We have spent the last few months recording our debut E.P and cannot wait to share it with the world :) There isn't a confirmed release date but, we are hoping for the end of this month or the beginning of september. Our merch site is http://www.scmerch.bigcartel.com/ and a little known fact about the elephant shirt..there is a hidden animal on it!

What is your most crazy show story? (Any naked women running around? Drunk bar fights?)

Hmm.. we have yet to see any show nudity or UFC re-enactments but we did have a pretty funny encounter with a drunk guy. Back before we had live members to play full band shows, we used to tour playing an acoustic set of our music. On with the story, we were playing a show at the Norva in Norfolk, VA. Our friend/photographer for the night (who we will refer to as The Dark Knight) had a few too many drinks. So we were playing the last song in our set, and i started to hear an off time tambourine coming from behind us. Then out of the corner of my eye i see The Dark Knight on stage with us wielding a tambourine (we have no idea where he got it from). It was a great moment in our band history, i think the crowd was actually cheering for him at the end of our set haha. He actually hung out with us at the merch table that night and probably signed more shirts than we did ;)

How much do you think hype affects the public perception of what good music is?

I think hype affects people in different ways. Some people blindly follow the trends of popular music while others dislike something just because it is hyped up and there are the people who are indifferent. I think the words hype, mainstream, etc. are bad for the industry because they have an auto-shut off effect on some people. Instead, i suggest we use the word Disney. Example: "Hey that song is Disney!". meaning, the kids will like it. Have I lost you yet? haha, it was a studio thing, a whole different story :)

How would you like to see the local music scene change? (venues, fans, other bands)

Locally the music scene has been ruled by metal/hardcore shows for the past few years, but we have been seeing more and more non-metal bands forming in the area which could lead to less fights and more hugs ;) I guess something we would like to see is more people going to shows, we love meeting new friends!

What's up for the band in 2008? ( a tour, album?) First priority is to release our cd that we have been working on, it is in it's final stages so it shouldn't be long! Then we plan on getting a live band together again so we can tour extensively to promote the new cd :) But we will be writing new material this year as well, so who knows!

What local bands and artists do you recommend? We would have to recommend our friends in Conditions, they put on an amazing show, plus they are super cool dudes. Definitely have to recommend Yearling as well, we recorded our cd with Sid (the singer), and Mike (the drummer) played the live drums on our recordings.

What are your favorite venues to play at? How would you like to see the available venues to change when booking shows? (better sound / lights/ pay/ promotions) The Norva definitely holds a special place in our hearts, the atmosphere is amazing and it even has a hot tub backstage! I feel that the local venues are doing a good job, tons of promotion is definitely key to making a sucessful venue.

How do you market your music to the public? What seems to work best for you for letting people know about your shows? (Myspace/ the paper / word of mouth) As of now we just promote via myspace and word of mouth. Myspace has been a huge help to our band by enabling us to share our music with people around the world. It is also a great tool for booking out of town shows on your own, before it was very difficult unless you had a manager.

What is your current favorite song? I guess i would have to say Oubiette by The Receiving End of Sirens, and i'm going to say the entire Death Cab for Cutie discography for Mike haha.

Last CD bought, downloaded or stole? It's been a while but the last one was Number One Gun, the north pole project. And that was bought... with stolen money! (only kidding)

Quote us your favorite song lyrics. (please include who it is by) "p-p-p-pull up to the bumper babayyy" by Grace Jones vs. Funkstar Deluxe

What came first, the music or the misery? Explain. I actually thought about this for a second and had an answer. Then I decided to google the phrase, so i'll go with "what is We're high fashion, we're last chances" for 500.

What do you think of what MC7C does? How would you make it better? Have you been to any of our events? We have not been to any of your events yet, but maybe this interview will bring us together :D Great job guys, helping keep the music scene alive! We love you all

Links

Stairwell Collapse @ myspace

Artist: Devon Lawrence

2008-11-06T17:15:00.000-08:00

The following feature was conducted by k@t and compiled by Gabe. Please do not copy+paste this feature...instead, direct link to it!

...and now, for your viewing pleasure, Mr. Devon Lawrence.

.Interview.

How long have you been creating?

I've been creating art since I could handle a pencil. I won my first art contest in the third grade, and I knew I wanted to become a professional artist after that. I've basically been working professionally since High School. I started off by designing a series of images for a local clothing line and their clients. My most memorable job around that point was for the Hampton Coalition for Youth. I received a $4000.00 grant to produce a comic book on community issues that affect youth. I organized some local teen artists to work with me, and the project was printed by a professional comic book printer. The grant also opened the door for more work with the Hampton Coalition for Youth. I assisted on a project to paint their logo as a mural at the now demolished Coliseum Mall in Hampton, Virginia.

How would you describe your work?

I would describe my work as pop culture meets realism. I'm really into working with more than one style of art or combining different styles. What doesn't change in my work though is the control that I have of each piece. I'm probably too obsessed with being in control, and I would like to be loose some. I know I would like to work darker as well. My images tend to be too soft.

What are you motivations for creating?

I create art because I can't see myself doing anything else. I know I would never be happy doing anything else. There was a period of time where I wasn't creating, and I was miserable. I just can't live without art. I've always enjoyed the attention that my art attracts to me anyways. I was just an average kid in school, but my art always made me stand out though.

What is a moment that you had a violent clarity and saw something completely different? (saw a movie, news, family event) How did that shape your art?

The way I see the world changed drastically when I became sick 4 yrs ago. I developed a rare muscle disease called Dermatomyositis. Basically, my white blood cells started attacking my muscles. At my lowest point, I couldn't lift my arms over my head, rise out of bed on my own, and I could barely walk up steps. Even the medication to treat my illness has been a major issue to deal with at times. Using a steroid called Prednisone caused bones in my body to decay. So, I've had two bone graft surgeries in the last two years to correct the damaged areas. Under those circumstances, you realize that life is too short to waste. Although I was planning to attend graduate school for art when I first got sick, I still wasn't creating art like I should have been at that time. Now I try to create as much as I can now. A lot of projects and opportunities have actually developed during this period. I'm still not in remission, but I'm not going to let that hold me back from creating. Or hold me back from just enjoying life.

A number of my current projects seem to be influenced by my struggles with my illness. I have an art book that I'm trying to develop that's about my illness. Words and art that outline my struggles with my illness and the side-effects of my medications. My infamous "Crack Babies" are also reappearing in my art. Images of broken, and cracked looking creatures. They could really represent me. Despite the fact that I look normal, I still feel broken at times. At the moment, I still deal with a lot pain, and my strength level isn't 100% yet.

I'm back to the idea of starting a Crack Babies clothing line, and they will continue to appear in my work as well.

What do you find visually stimulating right now? Any local artists that we need to keep an eye on?

Anime/Manga and pop culture from Asia has always been visually stimulating to me over everything else. I am looking at graffiti art again since my Crack Babies were partially influenced by that genre of art.

The only local artists that I really have my eye on attend the Norfolk Drawing Group. Local artists Mark Miltz and Bernard Conda always amaze me with their figure studies. I attend the figure study group as much as I can, and there is so much talent in that one group alone in the area. We need local artists to unite more like this, and more art shows for upcoming local artists. There's so much talent in this area, but many artists don't know how to find each other. There's no reason why this area can't compete against Richmond's art scene. MySpace has been a great tool to connect with other local talent.

What other artists or movements inform your work/aesthetics/sensibilities?

Manga artists continue to influence me a lot. Artists like James Jean
and Audrey Kawasaki definitely have inspired and influenced my work lately.

Do you think that the notion of an artist's "style" is fabricated toboost sales and marketability? Are artists then forced to limit theirbody of work to specific content or media in an effort to facilitate easy recognization?

As a artist who was trained to work commercially, a style is essential to get hired by an art director. Your style can grow, but an art director usually doesn't want to see a sporadic body of work. As for galleries, they obviously try to boost sales with what they think that the market should take notice of. When dealing with the
gallery scene, it's all about who you know it seems. So, artists in this day and age do limit themselves unfortunately at times. As artists though, we should market ourselves more and start our own companies. You should be able to have a successful career if you paint, design furniture, and work with photography. Why would you want to limit your creativity if you're a true artist?

What were your favorite cartoons as a kid??

I grew up on Anime before the US knew what Anime was. Shows like Voltron, Robotech, and Starblazers were a few of my favorites. I also never missed an episode of Transformers and GI. Joe. I'm an 80's kid. The Aeon Flux MTV Liquid television shorts and the show has to be my favorite overall cartoon. There hasn't been an American cartoon to match the creativity of that show in awhile in my opinion.

What do you imagine is the role of your work in the lives of those who
see it? What evidence do you see of your work achieving the goals you have for it?

My work is usually meant to entertain or impress people. If my piece you're viewing can hold your attention for more than a glance, I believe I've done my job. Positive feedback always lets me know for sure if my work is good. I have a popular presence on MySpace somewhat, and when other artists give me positive feedback, I know that I'm doing something right. As of late, I have a growing European fan base. I've recieved a lot of friend requests from France and Italy, and I've discovered a lot of talent that Europe has to offer due to that fact.

If there were no financial limits whatsoever for you, what constraints
would you most like to overstep? Are there other mediums you would
explore?

I would love to open a venue for local artists if I didn't have any financial limits. You would have a gallery space to exhibit, a open studio space, and my own private studio space in the building. I'm happy when I'm surrounded by creative individuals, and I couldn't find any artists in the area until I discovered the Norfolk Drawing Group. This area needs a space like this. Especially on the Peninsula. The art scene seems to be dead for young artists like myself.

Did you grow up in Virginia? (If not, when / why did you move here?)

I was born and raised in Virginia. I was born in Hampton, and I spent some time back and forth between Hampton and Newport News. I graduated from Hampton High School, and now I'm living in Newport News again. I spent my college years in Richmond at Virginia Commonwealth University, and I moved to Miami, FL for a short period of time after I graduated from college.

Do you do gallery shows?

I'm definitely interested in doing gallery shows. I actually haven't been apart of a show in awhile, but that may change this Spring. I've discussed having a show with another local artist, so it's a serious possibility. The Norfolk Drawing group has also brainstormed on the idea of exhibiting. I will certainly be a part of that show if that happens.

Please finish the following statements...

"You know you've made it when..."

... when your work sells well, and is recognized world wide.

"It'll be time to pack up the gear for good when..."

... it's always cold in the area.

"I'll never forget the first time I..."

... heard about the terrorist attacks on 9/11. I was in my apartment in Miami at the time.

Let's have some fun with word association. Give me your immediate
feelings on the following (if you've got no discernable feelings, make
something up that won't embarrass you in the morning)

Military Ships

Norfolk Naval base

Constant Road Construction

Road construction will probably be finished by the time my 7 yr old neice has grandkids at this rate.

Virginia Beach Oceanfront

Greekfest 1989. I still remember watching young black college kids being hosed down on the news as a kid.

Blogs

Blogs are a modern day journal/diary, and the common man's forum for thoughts, opinions, and news. I don't blog as much as I use to.

The Norva

Damian Marley and X-Clan. That was the last concert that I attended at the Norva.

The Boathouse

The Boathouse? How about The Beach house... I've never been to the
Boathouse, but I had some interesting moments at the Beach house.

Ghent

I spend a lot of time in Ghent with the Norfolk Drawing Group. Ghent has a lot of potential, but the cost of living there is too high.

Festivals

What festivals?

The Block

East End. Downtown Newport News. The last place I want to spend the
rest of my life at.

Granby Street

Confused. Crime, over priced stores and condos occupy the street. Once home to the Norfolk Drawing Group. I had a lot of adventures on Granby St. over the last year.

What's the most played song on your iPod (or an equivalent music playing device) in the past week?

I'm really playing a particular album at the moment. Beat Konducta: India produced by Madlib. Madlib produced a hip-hop instrumental album with samples from Indian music and film.

What was the first/last album you bought on the day it was released?
(What did you think of it?)

It has been awhile since I bought an album on the day that it was released. The last album that I purchased under such circumstances was probably Food and Liquor by Lupe Fiasco. A breath of fresh air from the 50 Cent rhymes that dominate the air waves. It's a fact that the real hip-hop artists with substance usually don't get played like they should. Like Lupe, you have artists that aren't
promoting ignorance and violence. Artists like The Roots, Mos Def, Talib Kweli, and Common. The industry pushes acts like Soulja Boy Tell 'Em who's talking about "Superman that Ho" though. The problem starts with corporate America, but that's a discussion for another day.

The business side of being an artist: how do you market/promote yourself, and does it work? How do you cope?

At the moment, I'm only promoting my art through word of mouth and the internet. MySpace has actually been a great tool to use. If I decide to return to the commercial industry, I would send out mailers featuring my art and website info. My website is still in the conceptual stage, and I really would like to have an actual site promote my work over a MySpace page. The Crack Babies clothing line will probably have a seperate website as well. I'm content with this scenario for now. Once my true plans are in place though, it's time to get serious and conquer the world.

What local musicians should we keep an eye on?

I'm a huge fan of the Neptunes and N.E.R.D. I wish Pharrell's album with Questlove would be released.

What local artists should we check out?

The artists from the Norfolk Drawing Group should be on everyone's list. You can find links to a number of members here.Photos from each week's sessions are posted here.

And finally...What came first, the art or the misery? (explain)

I would like to believe that the misery came first. Art was a way to express the misery. A form of early therapy.

.Links.
official myspace page

Band: The Pawnshoplifters

2008-11-06T17:13:00.000-08:00

The following feature was conducted by k@t and compiled by Gabe. Please do not copy+paste this; direct link to this feature! Give us credit for our work!

Now...it's cowboy hat time, with the Pawnshoplifters.

.Bio.

The Pawnshoplifters arrived on the scene in 2006. Roots Rock, Country, Americana, call it what you will. We just play what comes natural, and what most of us were brought up on as kids (wether we wanted to or not!) Having a great appreciation of real country and honkeytonk, the PSL's take from those genres the art of story telling. A hard edged approach to country, and a blue collar mentality, the PSL's deliver passionate, colorful tunes that go hand in hand with the stereo in your f-150.

.INTERVIEW.

(Questions answered by Wendell Johnson)

Did you grow up in Hampton Roads? If so, what cities? What high schools?

We all 3 grew up in Tidewater. Jeff and I went to Great Bridge. Alan went to Booker T washington

Describe your music to someone who has never heard it.

Hard edged Hillbilly Hoedowns!

What is your most crazy show story? (Any naked women running around? Drunk bar fights?)

Wow, crazy story.....we're all vets of the scene. We try to rock as hard as we can, and have a few beers and go home to our wives.

How would you like to see the local music scene change? (venues, fans, other bands)How do you think we can solve the problems we are having with venues doing little to NO promoting of shows, not paying the bands much, lack of good sound systems, and other issues?

Well, i've battled this since i was 16. I think it starts with the bands. Good, quality bands doing shows together and creating a cool place to see a show. There are a couple of places that have great shows regularly. And attendance is quite good. So, I think it starts there. We don't have real venues that just concentrate on having music. VA law requires a venue to sell a certain amount of food with alcohol, so they have that to worry about. So in that case, the Venue really has no time or money to promote shows. I think myspace has done a tremendous amount for getting the word out on bands. And having accurate websites that give updates is also crucial. It's space age baby!

What's up for the band in 2008? ( a tour, album?)

Our record comes out in JAn, with a release show @ the Taphouse on Feb 9th. Touring will be as far as we want to drive..

What local bands and artists do you recommend?

Recommend? thats a strange choice of words...like a dr. recommending pennicilin for vd. LOL I recommend the PSL's for your rash ma'm. All kidding aside, locally we like 1888 a lot. Brad recorded our record at his Clay garden Studio. They are doing some interesting stuff as a band. Rylo, Action Habit, Jason Manfreddi..the list goes on. I think when we can sense passion in a bands set, it always gets attention. Well, passion and songwriting ability...

What are your favorite venues to play at? How would you like to see the available venues to change when booking shows?
(better sound / lights/ pay/ promotions)

Any place that people come to see original music. The Taphouse, Hells Kitchen, Jew Mo's.

Who primarily writes the songs? Is there a certain process or does it come out during practice?

I write the songs, and I make demos to give the guys, and we get together and hash em out!

How do you market your music to the public? What seems to work best for you for letting people know about your shows?
(Myspace/ the paper / word of mouth)

All three are very practical in getting your music out. Myspace, like I said is a huge tool in getting music out there.

Finish these statements:

"You know you've made it when..."

cows fly out of my arse. we get to play our songs that we write in front of alot of people, and they have a great time, and sing them back to us.. I think that's "making it" in the music industry.

"It'll be time to pack up the gear for good when..."

never. We all enjoy it too much . You can always play music on some level, as long as yer standing.

"I'll never forget the first time I..."

heard some of the music genre descriptions these days... they get more and more ridiculous. It's freakin rock baby!

Let's have some fun with word association. Give me your immediate feelings on the following
(if you've got no discernable feelings, make something up that won't embarrass you in the morning)

Pembroke Area aka Downtown Virginia Beach-Downtown Virginia Beach?

No such thing.

The Oceanfront-

No such thing. Used to be a Haven for music...now it's just sad.

Granby Street- (in Cajun man tone)

Solution....revitalization!

Portfolio Weekly-

sure, what 's the alternative...

Independent Music Stores / Businesses / Restaurants-

Persistant

Mount Trashmore-

Tidewater's hillside.

Best Venue-

The Taphouse, it gets rawkus!

Worst Venue-

street corner

Best Kept Secret-

fluffer nutter. marshmellow creme and peanut butter.

Pungo-

backwoods. love it.

Favorite Dive Bar-

I don't have the time..used to be the ghent inn.

What's the most played song on your iPod (or an equivalent music playing device) in the past week?

our new record, listening to different mixes and mastering.

Who would be in your ultimate music supergroup, your all-star Olympic team of rock?

oh god....all the dead ones.

What came first, the music or the misery? Explain.

Well music changed after the misery, so music. But music that's miserable just because it's trendy, is just miserable.

.Links.

Official myspace page
Official web home

Artist: Sarah Spalsbury

2008-11-06T17:11:00.000-08:00

The following feature was conducted by k@t and compiled by Gabe. Please do not copy+paste this feature; instead, direct link to it!

...and now, the art of Sarah Spalsbury.

:INTERVIEW:

How long have you been creating?

I have been creating artwork since before I could read. Yes, I was one of those Art Club, Lit Club, Drama Club kids. After high school, though, I kind of fell out of any creative outlets for quite awhile. I've really only picked it up again in the past couple of years.

How would you describe your work?

My work is simply what I felt like doing at that moment.
I don't work within just one style or with just one medium.

What are you motivations for creating?

I got back into art to make a gift for someone a few years ago. For awhile thereafter i worked mainly on commissions. Now I mainly just do whatever I think will be fun to do for me.

What is a moment that you had a violent clarity and saw something completely different? (saw a movie, news, family event) How did that shape your art?

I have no clarity. For a long time a tried to be a writer. I was deeply inspired by nearly everything. Nothing was original, so i gave it up. Painting is a little different, though. A striking photograph can be painted into one's own interpretation without being plagierism.

What do you find visually stimulating right now? Any local artists that we need to keep an eye on?

Honestly, lately I've been quite out of the loop. I've been too absorbed in my day job to even focus on my own work.

What other artists or movements inform your work/aesthetics/sensibilities?

Funny, I was never really a fan of pop art growing up, but now I love working in it. To enjoy as an outsider, though, I'm a huge fan of Arthur Rackham and turn of the century illustration.

Do you think that the notion of an artist's "style" is fabricated to boost sales and marketability? Are artists then forced to limit their body of work to specific content or media in an effort to facilitate easy recognization?

If an artist feels forced to limit anything, then they are not a true artist. Art is in the freedom.

What were your favorite cartoons as a kid??

He-Man and She-Ra were never missed, or Smurfs and anything on the USA cartoon express rotation. I still use my Shirt Tails candy dish!

What do you imagine is the role of your work in the lives of those who see it? What evidence do you see of your work achieving the goals you have for it?

What really made me take my own artwork seriously is when people were awed by the fact that they could attain it- for themselves and as gifts. It being mostly personal, and the fact that it is a serious peice of art, has made those it was meant for feel that much more special for having it.

If there were no financial limits whatsoever for you, what constraints would you most like to overstep? Are there other mediums you would explore?

I would do some obnoxiously large sculpture maybe. I've always wanted to recreate the Swiss Family Robinson tree house. Landscape art and architecture are also big interests of mine.

Did you grow up in Virginia? (If not, when / why did you move here?)

I grew up in Michiganand moved around alot there. Spent a few months in San Diego. I moved here about five years ago when I was sick of Michigan again.

Do you do gallery shows?

I've never really had enough peices done at one time for a show. I do have a show in the works for next year. I'll be doing a charity show at Kirn Memorial Library. We're still looking for artists to join in if anyone is interested!

Please finish the following statements...

"You know you've made it when..." I'll know it when I get there.

"It'll be time to pack up the gear for good when..." never.

"I'll never forget the first time I..." felt proud of myself.

Let's have some fun with word association. Give me your immediate feelings on the following (if you've got no discernable feelings, make something up that won't embarrass you in the morning)

Military Ships: gray

Constant Road Construction: commute to work sucks

Virginia Beach Oceanfront: overrated

Blogs: I never update mine.

The Norva- it's been awhile since I was there :(

The Boathouse- never been

Ghent- Starbucks in the morning!

Festivals- don't have time

The Block- huh?

Granby Street- getting better

What's the most played song on your iPod (or an equivalent music playing device) in the past week?

Dark Come Soon- Tegan and Sara

The business side of being an artist: how do you market/promote yourself, and does it work? How do you cope?

I've done the Ebay thing. It has it's ups and downs. I don't worry about it much.

:WEBLINKS:
Deviant Art
official myspace
artwanted.com profile

Artist: Christopher Bautista

2008-11-06T17:09:00.000-08:00

Featured Artist:

Chris Bautista

(Written by the artist himself)

Hello, my name is Chris Bautista and 22 years young. I'm a video game addict and used to play professionally as a nerd. For the past 4 years, I had the opportunity to tour the country in the band Fall of Transition, which was the greatest thing I had ever been a part of. I'm a full time student at ODU studying Database Administration and currently work for the enemy known as Canon(jk!). When I am not doing those two things im either taking pictures/owning noobs(videogames) or hanging out with my girlfriend Candace.

Interview:

How long have you been creating?

I've been into photography since I was in middle school but really started to get "serious" maybe even "obsessed" about 3 years ago. I like to sketch a bunch of stuff too but we'll not worry about that =).

How would you describe your work?

I try to stay as creative and original as possible. My work you could describe as "going with the flow", I don't plan anything as far as subjects go with my photography. I just shoot whatever interests me. A lot of my stuff is landscape/macro shots.

What are you motivations for creating?

Other amature photographers locally and abroad. Flickr surprisingly motivates me a lot, you get to interact with a lot of photographers with various backgrounds in the field. Also, my girlfriend as well.

What do you find visually stimulating right now? Any local artists that we need to keep an eye on?

I like to look at fashion/photography magazines a lot to see what creative ideas people are coming up with. You probably already have an eye on him but Michael Scott Younger III is a beast.

What do you imagine is the role of your work in the lives of those who see it? What evidence do you see of your work achieving the goals you have for it?

I like to show people pictures in perspectives that are out of the norm. Kind of like "Hey, I never really looked at "that" in that way before." I may be just confusing you right now. I give up.

Do you think that the notion of an artist's "style" is fabricated to boost sales and marketability? Are artists then forced to limit their body of work to specific content or media in an effort to facilitate easy recognization?

If thats the case, to each his own. They can do whatever they want. Hopefully they do what they want to do, forcing yourself to change your style because of income is lame.
But you gotta do what you gotta do i guess.

What were your favorite cartoons as a kid??

Not gonna lie but I still watch cartoons. Mainly anime(nerd).
But when I was a kid i loved Dragon Ball Z. Bobbys World was sweet too. His feet were HUGEEEEE. WWWWOOOOO!

If there were no financial limits whatsoever for you, what constraints would you most like to overstep? Are there other mediums you would explore?

I'd buy a lot of studio equipment. Hell, even my own studio. I've already invested quite a bit on my equipment so far and it hurts! Really...

Did you grow up in Virginia? (If not, when / why did you move here?)

Born and raised. BOOOOO!

Do you do gallery shows?

Not yet, I still have a lot of things I want to accomplish in photography before I do a gallery show.

Please finish the following statements...

"You know you've made it when..." answer omitted. lol

"It'll be time to pack up the gear for good when..." im a millionaire.

"I'll never forget the first time I..." (censored)

Let's have some fun with word association. Give me your immediate feelings on the following (if you've got no discernable feelings, make something up that won't embarrass you in the morning)

Military Ships: im allergic to sterling silver.

Constant Road Construction: stick shift in traffic is torture

Virginia Beach Oceanfront: they have signs that say (@!@!) which i guess means no profanity?

Blogs: ummm.

The Norva: best venue on the east coast

The Boathouse: miss it

Ghent: awesome houses

Festivals: pinatas

The Block: stay away from there

Granby Street: alcohol

And finally...What came first, the art or the misery?

You can't make art unless you're sad first. This makes sense to a lot of people. I refuse to elaborate! HA

What local musicians should we keep an eye on?

I honestly dont know. You guys got it covered.

What local artists should we check out?

alexis angeles

For More Visual Happiness:

http://www.flickr.com/photos/bautistaphotos/
http://www.myspace.com/bautistaa

Band: The Tripps

2008-11-06T17:07:00.000-08:00

Featured Local Rockstars of The Week:

The Tripps formed in 2005 and infused a New Orlean's inspired Blues sound into the Hampton Road's music scene. A versatile blend of dixieland music and rhythms derived from Caribbean music, it's an upbeat evolution of traditional Blues. The Tripps recently entered the studio to record their first full length album, tentatively titled "A Sidereal Day," to be released in the near future. The current line-up includes David Cuffee III, Greg Meekins, Sam Barrett, and Cameron King.

Interview:

What is your music background? Did you play instruments growing up?

Greg: We all began playing back in grade school, and our parents were always supportive of our musical pursuits, as well as big music fans themselves: funk, blues, gospel, bluegrass, rock 'n' roll, etc. We all were given a good foundation to build upon creatively, and are very grateful for that.

Where did the name of the band come from? How did the band get together?

Greg: I would like to say the band formed by accident, but we've all known each other for years, and just happened to get together a few times to jam, and we started to mold those improv sessions into more structured compositions that we were pleased with, so we pursued it. This started in January of 2005. The name "The Tripps" comes from Tripp McNeeley from the film "Can't Hardly Wait", the gentlemen with only wisdom to pass along to his fellow man.

What other activities / things do you enjoy doing when not playing music?

Cameron: pilliaging villages, knitting, video games, wax sculpting.

Who are your favorite musicians?

Cameron: I really just respect talent. It doesn't matter all too much what type of music it is.

How did the band start? Who had the idea and why?

Cameron & Greg: We honestly came from the future to protect John Connor, and to get sun tans on our days off. We failed at both.

How would you describe your music to people?

Greg: One of those Moonwalk carnival inflatable jammies.

Please finish the following statements...

"You know you've made it when..." You have others to carry your equipment.

"It'll be time to pack up the gear for good when..." Catering forgets to de-shell the M&M's before our performance

"I'll never forget the first time I..." Had to wear headgear.

Let's have some fun with word association. Give me your immediate feelings on the following (if you've got no discernable feelings, make something up that won't embarrass you in the morning)

Military Ships: AMERICA! FREEDOM! George Bush! MISSILES!

Constant Road Construction: The view from my apartment.

Virginia Beach Oceanfront: crack heads and taxes, and my home

Blogs: day-time waster

The Norva: wooden

The Boathouse: ahh man!

Ghent: rich, white people

Festivals: What kind of festivals?

The Block: money and hookers

Granby Street: No Parking, fun weekends

What's the most played song on your iPod (or an equivalent music playing device) in the past week?

"Blue Hotel" Ryan Adams and the Cardinals

Who would be in your ultimate music supergroup, your all-star Olympic team of rock?

Cameron: Hendrix, Flea, John Theodore.

What was the first/last album you bought on the day it was released? (What did you think of it?)

Greg: Ryan Adams and the Cardinals : "Follow The Lights E.P." and it's sonically and lyrically perfect.

And finally...What came first, the music or the misery?(explain)

Cameron: Watch High Fidelity and John Cusack will divulge the answer.

Are you happy with the direction the band is going right now? What is the current goal of the band?

Greg: I couldn't be happier. The current "goal" if you will, would be to play music that makes us sincerely happy, thus making the audience happy, and having the opportunity to perform at a variety of different places around the world; to meet people from different walks of life, religions, and planets.

How do you balance your music with your other parts of life (job, family)?

Cameron: I'm a loner Dottie: a rebel. - Pee Wee Herman.
(sidenote: ha! I love Pee Wee's Big Adventure.-k@t)

What causes artistic blocks? What do you do to solve them?

Greg: Everyday life causes mental blocks, but that same life is also the solution to the block. That is why life will always be a vicious circle that, if you live it right, you will be able to provide immediate solutions to those occasional mental blocks, if there are any significant ones at all.

Where do you see the band in the next few years?

Cameron: NOT dead from cocaine overdoses.

How would you like to see the local music scene change? Do we need to have better venues? Better ways of booking shows? Which way do you find best to get fans to come out to shows?

Greg: I would like to see the entire thing change. Actually, to be perfectly honest, if you want the whole scoop on how to book, promote, and set-up a concert right, see Granby North. And use word of mouth to promote shows. The internet is the devil.

Links to These FOOLS:

www.myspace.com/thetripps

Artist: NeleH

2008-11-06T17:04:00.000-08:00

Neleh Sawsiengmongkol

(Helen Spelled Backwards)

Neleh Sawsiengmongkol was born and raised in the Tidewater area of Virginia. Growing up as the daughter of two Filipino immigrant parents, becoming a "starving artist" could not be encouraged. Like most parents of first generation Asian Americans, they had hopes of their children having successful careers in medicine or engineering. Today, Neleh continues to challenge sociocultural pressures, as an "artographist" (artist + photographer), capturing images that create commonalities in a diverse world. Most recently, her talent has been recognized internationally as a nominee of the 2nd annual Photography Masters Cup. She currently resides in Virginia Beach, VA.

The Interview

Do you have a particularly favorite (photo/ painting) you have created and why is it your favorite?

I have lots of favorites. One in mind is of this amazing 16 yr old b-boy doing an elbow freeze. To this day it looks surreal to me. Capturing signature freeze poses of breakers is on my list of favorite things to photograph. The breaker's passion to dance is so intense. When they nail their poses and spins it creates a synergistic moment between me and them in those few seconds resulting in what I feel is a collaborative art project.

What about photography captivated your interest?

It's being able to capture poignant moments to share with others and create images that are able to evoke the imagination of any individual.

What advice would you give to a person interested in becoming a professional photographer?

Don't give up.

How did you start doing photography? How did you start editing? What kind of editing software do you use?

First, I kidnapped my older brother's 110 camera when I was a kid. It made the coolest noise when you had to wind up for the next shot. I brought that thing everywhere. In high school, my first and only dark room experience was during my senior year through a Graphics Communication class. Once college started, I had to put photography and the arts on the back burner to figure out "What do I want to be when I grow up?" to assure my parents that I would have a secure financial future. 10 years later (and a bachelor's degree that I haven't put to use), I bought a Canon 20D, took some basic photography classes at the TCC Visual Arts Center to learn how to edit and it's been heaven since.

Tell us about your experiences getting started as a professional photographer.

It's been both frightening and exciting! I have to admit that one of the hardest things for me to do in this profession is putting a price on my work.

Do you prefer working with digital or film cameras? Why?

Digital. It's convenient.

Can you tell us about your technical process.(camera type/ photo editing programs/).

I use a Canon 20D. Although I have a collection of lenses, my favorites are prime lenses. I prefer to shoot in RAW and I am currently using Photoshop CS2.

Can you tell us about your creative process? How do you find the right subject? Location?

It's pretty cut and dry. When an idea comes to mind I visualize the exact image I want to create and make it happen. Also, I have awesome friends that I share my ideas with and they never hesitate to contact me when they find a cool shoot location or just anything that screams "Neleh is gonna looooove taking pictures of this!"

What are predominating concerns as an artist, and how do you express them?

Sometimes I think to myself, "There are so many photographers out there. Why should I even try?" then I slap myself silly and tell myself, "Shut up!" Having trust in your own work isn't always easy and I am thankful to have colleagues give me the constructive criticism I need.

What do you want to photograph that you've not yet shot?

If I tell you I'm going to have to kill you. I kid! There are so many things I haven't photographed yet so the list would be long. If I had to start the list tomorrow, it would be a more recent self-portrait. I'm pretty bad about being in front of cameras since I'm behind one most of the time.

Can you think of a particularly fun client or project that you've had?

My most recent gig was at a Mixed Martial Arts fight event. It was my first time shooting this type of event and I was so excited. I made it into a game. The more images I could capture of fists and feet hitting the body and facial expressions showing pain the more points I'd score. I get a high from knowing that I anticipated something big about to happen and I caught it in a photograph.

What about a really boring project that you did just to pay the rent?

I haven't had any yet.

What are your present works about? How would you describe your work?

I've been in a portraiture mood lately. It's been fascinating to capture the different expressions of individuals when you tell them to think about something like "Someone ate your last cookie and didn't ask you!" or "You've been very naughty!" In the past, I've mostly been shooting still life that when it comes to people I sometimes forget I have to talk.

I've never thought to describe my own work. I'm used to others doing it for me. Why start now? (insert laughter here) Seriously, I wouldn't know what to say because I am immersed in it.

What other interests do you have? (besides photography)

I've got lots but lately I've been trying to get high scores in Guitar Hero.

Do you have a guilty pleasure? (Watch a certain reality tv show, surf myspace, people watch?)

I ran a list in my head of things i enjoy doing and realized... why feel guilty about something pleasurable?

What artists have influenced you, and how?

Two names come to mind, Henri Cartier-Bresson and Milton Glaser; and actually any artist that I have had the pleasure of meeting, well-known or not. They all have given me the inspiration to celebrate what life gives you and to never stop doing what you love to do.

What advice would you give other artists just starting out?

Again… three words… DON'T GIVE UP!

LINKS

www.helenbackwards.com

www.myspace.com/nelehbug

www.thecolorawards.com

Band: Still Pink

2008-11-06T17:03:00.000-08:00

The following feature was conducted by the MC7C duo and is here for your viewing pleasure. Please do not copy+paste this feature...direct link to it! Give us credit for our hard work!

And now, the pop/rock genious of STILL PINK...

INTERVIEW

What is your music background? Did you play instruments growing up?

Mike and Eric have been performing together for the past 10 years, and Chris started playing 7 years ago. Mike and Eric took up their instruments together, and Mike and Chris played in school for a number of different school ensembles.

Where did the name Still Pink come from? How did the band get together?

Eric and Mike grew up together starting in kindergarten, and Chris moved here from Seattle and attended high school with Eric. The rest is history in that department. Still Pink was officially a band on September 27th, 2005 (our first radio interview, on the local rock station 96X), and the name Still Pink was generated to hint at our youth - this band started young, and the objective is to keep it that way.

Growing up, how did music play a role in your childhood/adolescence?

Mike and Eric were out on school nights playing gigs in Norfolk's dark little watering holes dating back as far as middle school, playing standard rock & roll tunes. It really is the foundation of our playing today. Chris has a slightly less colorful adolescence as far as the music goes, but he spent a lot of time at shows on 2nd Avenue in Seattle ranging from punk to jazz during those crucial formative years.

What other activities / things do you enjoy doing when not playing music?(hobbies, crafts, events, eating, family)

Like all American people we love cooking out and carrying on. We spend a lot of time playing music, and we spend a lot of time out on the road. We're all fans of touring and life on the road, and really enjoy travel in general. New places and people make all of it really worthwhile. A good drink with friends is always enjoyable. We're all fans of walking, and spend a lot of time out and about listening to music and taking a break from the crazy schedules. Whenever possible, we head out to watch our friends play shows, and try and check out a lot of the other art happenings in the area. Don't miss Mookapalooza if you know what's up.

Who are your favorite musicians?

Bono and The Edge.

How did the band start? Who had the idea and why?

This band started as a reaction to all of us sitting down and looking at our influences, and what really got us motivated to play music. When we all realized the rock & roll was the common thread, we decided to take that and run with it. Eric came up with the name, and really the foundation for what we're trying to accomplish. Applying pop influence as of late is really just a continuation of our trying to stay dedicated to our influences. It's got to be from the heart, and that's really why we started this band.

How would you describe your music to people?

Pop music that rocks…sometimes.

Are you happy with the direction the band is going right now? What is the current goal of the band?

Absolutely. We have a lot of things in the works right not, including a new single release for our song "Crushed", a new clothing/apparel collection we're working on with Dumskeme (some of the hottest designers on the planet), and a lot of touring opportunities for 2008. Our goal is essentially to make this our life. We're working hard to earn support and make this a full time thing, and be able to tour and keep making music for a long time. We'd love to work with a driven label who wants to work us as hard as we want to work at this. As long as people take time out of their day to come see our shows, or money out of their paycheck to buy our music, we want to keep up our end.

How do you balance your music with your other parts of life (job, family)?

We don't. Fortunately our loved ones understand that this is what we do and we do our best to balance everything. Things tend to get a bit crazy with us.

What is the greatest compliment anyone has ever paid to you regarding your art work? What about the greatest insult? How should an artist respond to such compliments and insults? Is it easier to talk about the compliment or the insult?

A fan of ours who just stumbled across us on Myspace recently used our song "Airing" as her wedding song – that's a pretty big complement. And a newspaper in Georgia compared us to Queen in a CD review. As for insults, there really haven't been many to our face. I'm sure we get railed behind our back, but who doesn't. You have to take things like that in stride – art isn't really art until you offend somebody (I think Picasso said that, right?). It's obviously easier to talk about the compliments, but I'm sure we'll be pretty enthusiastic to talk about a really original or particularly vicious insult when we get one.

What causes artistic blocks? What do you do to solve them?

Johnny Rheznik. Turning on the radio tends to help straighten out artistic blocks.

If you could play a show with any band, past or present, who would it be? What music would you want them to perform?

Our friends from Invo. We miss playing with those guys, and when the finish up recording and get back on the horse, we're first in line to play with them. We would want them to perform stuff from their new album because we haven't seen it live yet.

What are trying to do to people with your art? Inspire them? Move them? Educate them?

We are just trying to be an excuse for people to let their guard down and have some fun.

Where do you see the band in the next few years?

Having just as much fun with a lot more friends.

How would you like to see the local music scene change? (venues, fans, other bands) Do we need to have better venues? Better ways of booking shows? Which way do you find best to get fans to come out to shows? (word of mouth / internet / flyers)

This scene is a bit lacking in the venue department. It'd be great to see a mid-size music venue pop up around here to bridge the gap for the local music scene between the NorVA and the smaller bars/clubs that sometimes feature live music. This scene can support a seven-day-a-week music venue, and we certainly have the bands to get the ball rolling. To take words out of Dennis Spence's (of Jackmove) mouth, "Someone bring back the fucking Boathouse". Our fans are fantastic, but it will always be great to have more of them come say hello out at our shows. It's a privilege to do this, and we love to meet the people who help make it possible. Word of mouth definitely gets the most people out, but you can't discount the affect of the Internet on that note. That's a huge reason why we try to make our shows events, and leave people talking about them the next day.

LINKS
Still Pink @ myspace
Still Pink's official webpage

Band: Action Habit

2008-11-06T17:00:00.000-08:00

(the following feature was written by MC7C. Please give us the proper credit we deserve and copy the link location and not copy and paste.
THANKS!)
BACKGROUND

Norfolk based, Action Habit, is a combination of garage rock and punk. They are by no means a typical "garage rock" band. If you're a fan of the Rolling Stones, The Pixies, The Who, or The Stooges, then you will be a fan of Action Habit. Anthony Torres, fronts the band with his tasty lyrics and mesmerizing guitar riffs. Dave Voightritter and Dany Magee round out the trio with their solid drum and bass lines, which create a unique sound. Playing at almost every venue in the Hampton Roads area, they have pounded out their influence in the local music scene. If you see their shows listed on a calendar, it's in your best interest to write a huge reminder on your fridge and attend!

INTERVIEW

What is your music background? Did you play instruments growing up?

All three members of the band are self taught. I myself have been obsessed with music since my occupancy in the womb. It is the only thing that has always been there for me, and quite frankly the only thing I trust. I picked up the guitar in the 80's and have been sleeping with it ever since.

Where did the name The Action Habit come from? How did the band get together?

The name came from a 1950's flyer about being a successful salesman using the "Action Habit" method. The flyer was found in the storage room of an old downtown business in Norfolk. It still hangs in my living room. I think people need to take more action in this world and stop being so content and complacent.
All of us had been in other bands, but were seeking new avenues to travel down. I am the only original member left, but Dany and Dave have been the Action Habit rhythm section for six years now.

Growing up, how did music play a role in your childhood/adolescence?

I could always depend on music my whole life. I could always put the needle on any number of records and that magic would always be there. I always had music by my side but never dreamed of actually playing it until punk/post punk happened in my world.

What other activities / things do you enjoy doing when not playing music?

I like reading and photography and seeking out great bands. Dave and Dany are both married. Yes, I am the single one. Dave handles IT duties for a local media station, and Dany is a teacher.

Who are your favorite musicians?

I can't bear the thought of leaving anyone out by answering this. There are too many important artists for me to pick a handful. I love great songwriters.the Beatles, Stones, Dylan, Pj Harvey, the Who, Guided by Voices, Echo and the Bunnymen, Neil Young, Velvet Underground, Big Star and so on…

How would you describe your music to people?

I always say it's kind of noisy pop mixed with a hint of prog rock.

Are you happy with the direction the band is going right now? What is the current goal of the band?

We are all pretty happy with the band. The current goal is to just finish mixing the record we have been working on and hopefully have it out by the end of the year. Then we can do more East Coast touring.

How do you balance your music with your other parts of life (job, family)?

It gets real hard sometimes. Lucky for me, I am playing with two of the most dedicated people I have ever been in a band with. If it's in your soul, you make time for the band.

What is the greatest compliment anyone has ever paid to you regarding your art work? What about the greatest insult? How should an artist respond to such compliments and insults? Is it easier to talk about the compliment or the insult?

The greatest compliment I can think of is the people who come to almost every show. The repeat supporters really make it worthwhile. I can think of no certain insults. Most people keep that to themselves anyway. Music is so subjective. You are always going to have people that are at a club and are not digging your sound. That kind of makes you want to play harder and put it in their face.
I can't tell other people how to handle opinions. Everyone has them, and everyone thinks they have the right one. Instinct is still best.

What causes artistic blocks? What do you do to solve them?

Life. I think any stress causes writers block. Relationships, jobs, health. The thing to do is to take that energy and make a song out of it. Don't let the negative emotion get the best of you. Use your art as a reflection of yourself.

If you could play a show with any band, past or present, who would it be? What music would you want them to perform?

The Who with Keith Moon on drums. I would want them to play the whole catalog.

What are trying to do to people with your art? Inspire them? Move them? Educate them?

I do this for me. If people want to come along for the ride, that's great. If I somehow inspire someone to start something positive and creative, then that's way more than I ever could have imagined when I picked up that guitar the first time. There is no secret message to this. I believe you should do your art with intensity. I don't mean volume, but with real emotion. If you are in it for other reasons, you need to question your validity.

Where do you see the band in the next few years?

All I could ask for is that we are constantly moving forward with new ideas and thoughts. I want to always be pushing the envelope of our capabilities.

How would you like to see the local music scene change? (venues, fans, other bands) Do we need to have better venues? Better ways of booking shows? Which way do you find best to get fans to come out to shows? (word of mouth / internet / flyers)

The problem that this area has always had is support of local music. The clubs don't want to pay the bands well. The clubs rarely do promotion. No flyers or radio spots. Local radio needs to support this more as well. We need more local music shows on radio. We need local record stores to push the regional bands more. Go to any major city and they will have and spotlight regional talent. Clubs should invest in a PA system. That is a great incentive for bands to play in their clubs. Once a band has to pay a PA rental, and a support band, they are left with very little money. When a band plays for the door money, that's all they get. They are totally at the mercy of the consumer. It really makes me angry when fellow musicians ask to be on the guest list. They should know that the only income we get comes from the cover charge. It's hard work maintaining
a band and loading in equipment, and giving it your all for 2 hours, only to have to break down everything , pack it up and hopefully be in bed by 3am. No matter how broke I am I will always pay to see a local band. If I can't afford it, I stay home.
We need to have more clubs booking original music. It's real pathetic that clubs pay a cover band so much more than an original band. I understand that most consumers just want to go out and get drunk and dance to the latest sounds, but the clubs have a responsibility to the local art community as well. Give the people some variety. Make something happen.
Sorry for the rant.
I cannot say enough great things about the MC7C organization. This is a major step in this area. I would love for more people to get involved with you to really bring positive results to this area. Artists need to protect their rights. They need someone like you to help them form a community. This area has always worked against each other instead of everyone taking it to the streets for the good of all. With the MC7C, we now have a forum to bring ideas and change to this area. I find that exciting. Get involved people! Every little bit helps.

LINKS:
Action Habit Myspace
Action Habit Dot Com

Check out this video: Deal With It

Add to My Profile | More Videos

Artist: sarah askew / robotheartart

2008-11-06T16:57:00.000-08:00

Featured Artist of the Week
Sarah Askew / RobotHeartArt

Background
------------

Chesapeake artist Sarah Askew also known as RobotHeartArt is as talented as you get for someone at the ripe old age of twenty years old. Her work is primarily paint on canvas or various materials. Her subject matter ranges from animals to rock stars. When she's not doing art, her day job is working in the fish, bird, reptile, and small animal area in PetSmart. Sarah's other hobbies include hanging out with her boyfriend, playing with her two ferrets, and enjoying her new female leopard geckos.

Interview
-----------

How long have you been creating?

Oh man, I don't even know! Ever since I was very young I've always been into art. Finger Painting 101. In about the second grade I was voted most likely to be an art teacher when I grew up. It's funny because that's what I'm in college for right now!

How would you describe your work?

That's a hard one. Perhaps, funky paint-by-numbers? I've always been inspired by bold line and color..a mechanical feel. Roy Lichtenstein is one of my heros.

What are you motivations for creating?

A desire for beauty. And, of course, to express myself.

What do you find visually stimulating right now? Any local artists that we need to keep an eye on?

I love Michael Scott Younger III! His style inspires me.

What other artists or movements inform your work/ aesthetics/ sensibilities?

Well, Roy Lichtenstien. That whole comic book "machine-made" look. I love it.

Do you think that the notion of an artist's "style" is fabricated to boost sales and marketability? Are artists then forced to limit their body of work to specific content or media in an effort to facilitate easy recognization?

I'm not sure about this. I can see sometimes how maybe some artists would feel like they have to keep using what sold in the past. But, I am always seeing how artists are evolving in their styles!

What were your favorite cartoons as a kid??

As a kid?? I STILL have favorite cartoons! I suppose as a kid my favorites would have to be shows like "Ren and Stimpy", "Cow and Chicken"..Hah, I guess shows that had lots of cartoon butts in them? My favorite cartoon at the moment is "The Venture Brothers". Amazing.

What do you imagine is the role of your work in the lives of those who see it? What evidence do you see of your work achieving the goals you have for it?

I guess I've never thought about this! I think my goal is simple..the most basic goal of art..for someone to see my work and go "Wow! Awesome!". You know? It's not until recently that I've been putting my artwork out there for the world to see.

If there were no financial limits whatsoever for you, what constraints would you most like to overstep? Are there other mediums you would explore?

I would love to get a bit into photography! A nice Canon SLR. Also, I would love to have tons of nice oil paint.

Did you grow up in Virginia? (If not, when / why did you move here?)

I was born in Virginia Beach and lived there my first year of life. I've lived the other 19 years in Chesapeake.

Do you do gallery shows?

Not yet! I would love to though. It wasn't until recently that I've been putting my work out in the open.

What materials do you use to make a piece? Any particular brands in paints or brushes?

Recently, I've been really into painting on wood. As far as paints and supplies, it usually ends up being whatever is the most cost effective. (College student and all...)

Tell us how you start a piece. Do you sketch? Do you wing it? Then what? How do you make a piece?

Usually I'll use a reference photo for my work. I'm a big math person, so I end up making really detailed graphs for everything. I sketch after that. Then paint, with about the tiniest brushes you can buy.

The business side of being an artist: how do you market/promote yourself, and does it work? How do you cope?

I've been way to shy in the past! It wasn't until this year that I've really had a passion to get out there and start selling! I never even publicly sold a piece of my art until about 3 months ago!

Links
Deviant Art Page
Myspace Page

Band: Freedom Hawk

2008-11-06T16:56:00.000-08:00

The following feature was conducted by k@t and compiled by -Gabe-. DO NOT copy+paste! Please direct link to this feature!

And now, the local fuzz masters themselves....Freedom Hawk!

:BIO:

This is the story behind the chemistry of Freedom Hawk. It started with T.R. and Mark in 1996, two guys that met through a mutual friend who played music.In 2000 they got a four track and started to record their jams.

They met Lenny, a drummer through a mutual friend in 2004 and started playing with him. Mark's brother Matt came in 2005 and joined as the 2nd guitarist. They recorded a demo that tightened up four songs and showed them the way to tighten up the rest.

The first name they came up with was Down Green Well, which came from where they practiced. The band name eventually morphed into Freedom Hawk.

Freedom Hawk is 4 Band members that grew up as friends and family that have played music together for years. Since 2005 they have been playing gigs and recording. They have toured and shared the stage with many national, regional and local recording/touring acts to include - Year Long Disaster, ASG, Throttlerod, The Needles, Beaten Back to Pure, Wooly Mammoth, Thunderlip and many more.

:INTERVIEW:

What is your music background? Did you play instruments growing up?

70s rock, 80s punk, 90s grunge and ROCK!! Mark played tenor saxaphone in Jr. High and bass later, Matt was musically trained on guitar, sax, and lite piano growing up and took guitar in college, TR bought a guitar and Lenny played drums in other bands - his music influence was beating on stuff until it made a cool ring in his ears

Growing up, how did music play a role in your childhood/adolescence?

An escape from reality..or something to help expand the creative instincts. Mark played tenor saxaphone in Jr. High, Matt was musically trained growing up and took guitar in college, TR bought a guitar and Lenny played drums in other bands - his music influence was beating on stuff til it made a cool ring in his ears

What other activities / things do you enjoy doing when not playing music?(hobbies, crafts, events, eating, family)

Surfing, skateboarding, snowboarding, live music, rock shows, almost anything..

Who are your favorite musicians?
Lots. You can hear the influence in our music...

How did the band start? Who had the idea and why?

The band started in 2002 but officially when Lenny our drummer came in...we were just a jam band at first but got our act together when our friends and family convinced us to get out of the studio/jam room. TR, Mark and Matt had been playin together off and on since 1996 but we could never find a good drummer or other musicians that wanted to go in the direction or get the vibe we were flowin...

How would you describe your music to people?

Raw, Loud, High Energy Powerful Rock with Soul that makes you groove - Power Groove Rock!

Are you happy with the direction the band is going right now? What is the current goal of the band?

Yes. Tour the East Coast and Record more music and write more music.

How do you balance your music with your other parts of life (job, family)?

It's difficult, but we are flexible with scheduling and balance very carefully.

Growing up, did you want to be a rockstar or did you consider other careers?

No. Professional skateboarder, surfer and Matt wanted to be a proffesional musician since age 13. Everyone wants to be a rockstar but we are gounded in the sense we have careers/jobs and stuff...playing music is a way for us to relieve stress of life first and foremost!

What is the greatest compliment anyone has ever paid to you regarding your art work? What about the greatest insult? How should an artist respond to such compliments and insults? Is it easier to talk about the compliment or the insult?

Everyone keeps coming out to see us perform, our CD is stuck in their car player and more people keep coming and coming. Our fans and people that truly/genuinely support us is our biggest compliment. This truly makes us humble we are so gratefull...we are our own worst critics!! Another is getting recognition from nationally recognized bands right under the corporate radar in the indie rock scene. Unfortunately it's easy to dwell on the negative and insults but that just motivates us more... we like low expectations from the outside because its easier to blow people away and suprise! No respect is what we like because when our blood gets boiling, we go off! The greatest insult would be critizing TR for using a little effects on his voice and saying that is the reason he sounds so good!

What causes artistic blocks? What do you do to solve them?

Monotony. Listen to all kinds of music. Play through it, take a break and let time wear it off...just don't dwell on the negative.

If you could play a show with any band, past or present, who would it be? What music would you want them to perform?

Led Zepplin - Song remains the Same or Kyuss - All of it. Also, Black Sabbath or Clutch.

Tell us about shooting your music video? What it what you thought shooting a music video would be like? What do you hope to accomplish with it? What inspired it?

Our friend Mark Fussell from Guitar Center did it and he just filmed us live playing and added some other content, edited and it came out great - Universal - check it out on our myspace site.

What are trying to do to people with your art? Inspire them? Move them? Educate them?

Entertain them and have fun. Feel the vibe..put the soul back in rock n' roll.

Where do you see the band in the next few years?

On a label and major tour.

How would you like to see the local music scene change? (venues, fans, other bands) Do we need to have better venues? Better ways of booking shows? Which way do you find best to get fans to come out to shows? (word of mouth / internet / flyers)

Better venues and more people, businesses etc that support and are open minded to original music to overcome the monotony and monopoly of corporate radio. Also, having a booking agent, because booking is a lot of work...

:WEBLINKS:

Official Page
Official Myspace Page

Freedom Hawk also reccommends these sites :

www.undersound.com
www.purevolume.com
www.download.com

Artist: Lamar

2008-11-06T16:54:00.000-08:00

The following interview was conducted by k@t and compiled by Gabe. Don't be a jerk. Give us credit for our hard work! Do not copy+paste this feature elsewhere!

And now, the ever-talented Mr. Demarquis Lamar Johnson.

Bio

Demarquis Lamar Johnson, aka LAMAr. Born of Military parents. Moved from place to place and school to school before going to Salem High School. Attended Virginia Wesleyan College. Demarquis has worked a number of jobs, including a brief stint as An Art Gallery Assistant. His artwork is consigned @ Serendip Arts And Antiques Norfolk Virginia, Detail Gallery Rehoboth beach Delaware. 100+ paintings of his have sold to places including : Childrens Hospital,Mayor of Norfolk,Doctors, Teachers, Artist Etc, and most recently the Four Sisters Gallery on the Campus of North Carolina Wesleyan College.

INTERVIEW

How long have you been creating?

I have been creating art since I was in diapers. The earliest art I recall were images of the Flintstones and dinosaurs. Then Disney movie box covers, and then my own creations.

How would you describe your work?

I would describe my work as "real art." My images are stories and concepts all of my own from my individual life. I consider it "real art," because of the self-experession factor, I really don't use my formal art training or techniques, I pour the paint or grab the pastels and just flow. "Real Art" [what Damarquis calls it]-meaning ones real views without copying, tracing, or using techinques from a "master."

What are you motivations for creating?

I do not really know if I am motivated. It is more of a way of life for me. Sometimes I roll out of the bed on to the floor and just start painting. I guess I can say it is a good feeling to help people through tough moments through reading my poems viewing my works.

What do you find visually stimulating right now? Any local artists that we need to keep an eye on?

I have googled some really good artists I use to attend high school with. [It's] pretty great to see what there doing. I learned from Michael Deweese, who is really successful in the feature film business as a storyboard artist. That is pretty motivational to me. Another local artist that has probably the most powerful work woudl be Francisco Burgess, I lost touch with him after I dropped out of Virginia Wesleyan College.

What other artists or movements inform your work/aesthetics/sensibilities?

I can not say an art movement really inspired my work. I used to aim to create work worthy of being good enough to hang in my Mom's living room. She collected a lot of black art when I was younger. Some compare my work to the harlem renassiance. I can somewhat agree with that, but then again, uh no. I would have to say Harlem renassiance meets south park. South park with a positive message though!

Do you think that the notion of an artist's "style" is fabricated to boost sales and marketability? Are artists then forced to limit their body of work to specific content or media in an effort to facilitate easy recognization?

Very, Very true! There are so many people tracing the styles Picaso, Jacob Lawrence, Jackson Pollock, and Monet. There are also artists creating work for shock value. Art is very similar to music. Artists create to market instead of just creating what they like. They compromise their art to be represented by a gallery. Art galleries no longer really display art; art galleries today look like Kinkos coloring books.

What do you do when you're not creating?

Honestly, I am always creating and playing with an idea in my head. My art comes from my life and the adventures I live.

What do you imagine is the role of your work in the lives of those who see it? What evidence do you see of your work achieving the goals you have for it?

My work is inspiration to people. It gives hope and allows them to see that everyone goes through things. Based on the success I have already had, and the realization that art galleries reject my work but respect me shows me that I know my goal is within reach. My goal being to inspire others, and be a significant artist in my day and time.

If there were no financial limits whatsoever for you, what constraints would you most like to overstep? Are there other mediums you would explore?

I still paint on paperbags, like when I was broke, and buy .44 cent paint from walmart. With that being said I really do not see things changing. Art to me is creating something beautiful from nothing...I enjoy that challenge. Judging my work on canvas compared to the bag work, [I think it's best if I] stick with the free stuff.

Did you grow up in Virginia? (If not, when / why did you move here?)

No disrespect to VA, but no. Luckily I have lived all over the eastcoast, to include the Big Apple, N.Y., South Carolina, and Mississippi just to name a few places.

Do you do gallery shows?

My art work is too much like real art for most of the local spots, however I do exhibit out of state from time to time. Libraries and Schools tend to appreciate art with substance, such as my work.

How do you start a piece? What is the process?

Well, Lets see. First I rip up a paper bag. Paint a background color, and go from there. I paint in layers. I really paint without clear concepts in mind at times. But when I am done I always have something to say about it, and I usually incorporate my words and signature in the piece.

The business side of being an artist: how do you market/promote yourself, and does it work? How do you cope?

I send out hundreds of emails to galleries, post on craigslist, and check art calendars for show opportunities. My work sells well. As far as coping, I can not stress about people not wanting to see my work, I realize not everyone wants to hear me nor see me! ...and that my friend is life.

LINKS

LAMAr's official myspace page

Artist: Amanda Page Stephens

2008-11-06T16:52:00.000-08:00

The following feature was conducted by k@t and compiled-n-shined by Gabe. Please direct-link to this feature rather than copy+pasting. Give us credit for our hard work!

...and now, the natural visceral-visual blur of Amanda Page Stephens.

Bio [in her own words]

I was raised by the local art community so it is my blood to make art.
Naturally, I studied art in grade school. During the summer of 1994, I
went off to the Maryland Institute College of Art and Design. The following
fall I entered into Governor's School of the Arts. Due to the guidance at
Governor's School, I was accepted into 11 art schools in the spring
of 1995.

By Jan. 1996, I was headed off to the School of the Art Institute of
Chicago. I studied there for three years until I returned to Tidewater
in 1999. From then on until 2006, I juggled school, family, and work at
SAIC, ODU, and TCC. I finally earned my degree in May of 2006. During the years my art has appeared in a variety of group shows and in two solo shows. My first major exhibition accomplishment was in 1995. A sculpture, mixed media, photo piece was accepted into the Chrysler Museum's Irene Leeche show.
I was the youngest artist to ever be shown. I have judged a couple of festivals and art shows. I have taught a handful of workshops on video and
performance art. I hope to continue to produce and show my work in the days to come.

INTERVIEW

How do you keep your work and process fresh under deadlines and compromises?

I invite people in the community to make orchestrated accidents in my
work at tea parties or hang out spots. I also include found object in my
paintings.

What do you imagine is the role of your work in the lives of those who
see it?

I hope to inspire wonder, confusion….

What evidence do you see of your work achieving the goals you have for
it?

So many people ask questions of why, how, and what the f*** for. Plus I
have gotten a few amazing written reviews of certain pieces that proved I
achieved my desired goal. My goal for my work is to put art making in
non-traditional places done by everyday people. So many people are afraid
to help me with my work. They are afraid of messing it up. There are no
bad mistakes in my art. Just people getting together and having fun with
art.

If there were no financial limits whatsoever for you, what constraints
would you most like to overstep?

Well my work was born out of financial constraint so the only thing I truly desire is larger canvas… Are there other mediums you would explore? I went to art school for 10 years! I think I explored plenty.

Did you grow up in Virginia? (If not, when / why did you move here?)

Oh glory, glory yes. My childhood stomping grounds expand from Wards
Corner to Ghent [Norfolk]

Do you do gallery shows?

I grew up in a gallery show.

How long have you been creating?

Well let's see my dad was an artist and my mom was the nude model when they met. I had no choice to start in the womb. In other words since I can remember.

How would you describe your work?

Structured chaos….

Artist Statement: Accidental stains constantly inspire my creative
side. In fact natural stains make up most of my pallet. Pigments from tea,
wine, coffee, and flowers actually appear in my work rather consistently. Anassortment of found objects like puzzle pieces, obscure street metal,
and fabrics show up on my canvas too. The quest towards peace and sanity
repeat in my work on a regular basis. The concept of inexpensive and recycled materials drive my creative process. I enjoy inviting my community to contribute to the stains by spilling their drinks or putting their
cigarettes out on my canvas. I orchestrate these accidents by directing
where the spill or burn goes. In the end a search for answers and
relaxation gives my work its foundation.

What are you motivations for creating?

I can't stop. Plus I like to recycle.

What do you find visually stimulating right now? Any local artists that
we need to keep an eye on?

My dad, James E Stephens, Jennida Chase, Danny Holcomb, Jamila Starwater Tazewell, you.

What other artists or movements inform your work/aesthetics/sensibilities?

Ooooh art history, I hate/love you. See previous question. Jasper
Johns, Cindy Sherman

Do you think that the notion of an artist's "style" is fabricated to
boost sales and marketability?

No, growl. I think people can get overly comfortable but honestly I am obsessed with my process/style.
Are artists then forced to limit their body of work to specific content or media in an effort to facilitate easy recognization? Only if they let it.

You can catch Amanda at the following upcoming art shows :

November 2, 2007
Solo Kiss the Drink 3 Show First Friday Empire
[Richmond,Va]

November 10, 2007
Handmade Parade @ the Masonic Temple
[7001 Granby St]

Weblinks :

www.thebelvederegallery.com
www.myspace.com/amandapagestephens
www.norfolkcraftmafia.com
http://apages.blogspot.com

Joan of Art, Thanks for Successful Night!

2008-11-06T16:51:00.000-08:00

Joan of Art : MC7C's first event!

..
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We were taken back by the outpouring of support for the local art community.
This is what this area has needed to push life back into the scene. It wasn't about color, clothes, religion, sex, sexuality, nor furthering ones self from popularity....it was about art.
We had the pleasure of working and presenting fourteen extremely talented women. Almost every lady sold something. Every lady got complimented. Every lady saw a room full of folks supporting their artwork. These labyrinthine guests saw just a portion of what the 7 Cities has to offer. A sliver of what talent we have in this area. Imagine what we can accomplish if everyone took a moment out of their busy lives to help the community.

The power of two people can do in a year's time without much money, materials, or praise. Anyone can do what MC7C did. Anyone. It starts with an idea and motivation. It starts with a small spark and before long a fire is blazing.

MC7C would like to thank:
All the ladies involved in the art show
Tricia
her myspace page

Renee Alexander
her myspace page

Machine Dance Photography
her myspace

Candace Filip
her myspace

Mallorie Nasrallah
her myspace

Chelsea Barnes (artist)
her myspace

Elizabeth Henry
her myspace

Jennida Chase
Jennida myspace

Amanda Page Stephens
Amanda's myspace

Emily Sue
Emily's Myspace

Jen Stringer
Jen's myspace

Dzaet
Dzaet myspace

Melanie
Melanie myspace

Briana Cece
Brianna myspace

DJ Spookster!

Gabriel Cece for his patience, hard work, and passion.

Fuzion Ink : what a beautiful venue and positive environment

Chuck's Custom Catering: If you are having an event, these are the people to hire. What a spread! You name it, they had it!
((757) 406-0034)

Escapist Productions:

Restless Bodies

Sacred Art : for t-shirts/ buttons / screen printing needs. hit them up. They make you look good!

The Minus Men webpage
for providing sound for the fabulous music

The Dominion Derby Girls for just being kick ass!!!!!

A extra special thank you to Amanda Page Stephens for helping us in our crunch time and for being super supportive! We really appreciate all the hard work you put into Joan of Art.

Mom and Dad Marsh (for being our biggest fans)

All of our friends.... too many to name but you know who you are!

All the artists that attended to support the ladies! It was dynamite to see you checking the art out and talking with the girls.

All the fans. Without you, the show wouldn't have been a success. Without you, we'd all been home sooner with more artwork on the walls! Thanks for buying their work, eating the food, drinking the drinks, and supporting local art.

Artist: Mary Kay Hollday

2008-11-06T16:49:00.000-08:00

Continuing our features on talented local ladies in honor of the Joan of Art show, we have hand selected the creative diva, Mary Kay Holladay to be included in this month's spotlights.

(please direct link to this feature and not copy+paste. Give us the proper credit for the work! thanks!)

Featured Artist:

Mary Kay Holladay

"Art washes from the soul the dust of everyday life." ---- Pablo Picasso

Biography:

Mary Kay lived in the mid-west (Indiana and Ohio) until her retirement. At that time she re-located to Virginia Beach, Virginia. She has found Virginia to be an endless source of new subject matter for her paintings, enjoying the weather, the flowers and trees, but most of all the beaches.

Mary Kay spent her career in the highly regulated field of blood banking and transfusion medicine. She has always loved the creative process but for many years her time was spent working, making a home and raising her children. Because of these commitments, she had little time to draw or paint. Since her children are now grown and have their own lives and responsibilities, she has once again returned to her art. Painting has given her a sense of freedom she never felt during her professional life.

Mary Kay started painting in oils but has since switched to watercolors and acrylics. She enjoys painting landscapes, cityscapes, flowers and still life arrangements. Mary Kay is open to trying new things, new techniques, and new subject matter. While most of her art is considered to be representational, she has also done abstracts and (what might be described as) impressionistic work.

She has taken many classes and workshops in both Ohio and Indiana. Her works have been included in numerous juried exhibitions, won awards, and are included in both private and corporate collections.

"Creativity is allowing yourself to make mistakes. Art in knowing which ones to keep." ---- Scott Adams, creator of Dilbert cartoons

Interview:

How long have you been creating?

Forever – in one manner or another!

How would you describe your work?

Mostly representational/traditional although I also love doing abstracts – there is such a freedom in that process.

What are your motivations for creating?

My motivation for creating is the desire to create something that gives me joy and (hopefully) is also a source of pleasure for the viewer.

What do you find visually stimulating right now? Any local artists that we need to keep an eye on?

What stimulates me now is the same as has always stimulated me and that is the beauty that surrounds me each and every day. Regarding local artists, there are a few that come to mind: Nancy Lucks, Pam Hill and Patricia DeHart – all of these women are extremely talented and like me, are working hard to build a following here in the Hampton Roads area.

What other artists or movements inform your work/ aesthetics/ sensibilities?

Gosh, that's a tough one. I love the impressionists but enjoy equally artists like Kandinsky, Mir'o, Pollack and then on to Georgia O'Keefe. So, I guess, for me each artist has something to share with me.

Do you think that the notion of an artist's "style" is fabricated to boost sales and marketability? Are artist then forced to limit their body of work to specific content or media in an effort to facilitate easy recognition?

I do think artist have a "style" but I don't believe it is limiting (unless the artist allows that). As with all things, there is always change and it seems foolish to think artists would be any different. As their lives change, so may their work. It is as it should be.

What were your favorite cartoons as a kid?

Bugs Bunny and Porky Pig (guess I'm dated myself). When my children were young, I loved the Smurfs – you may never have even heard of them. (Mary Kay, we happen to love Bugs and the Smurfs. Cartoons are never outdated or out of style! We are all kids at heart!-k@t/Gabe)

What do you imagine is the role of your work in the lives of those who see it? What evidence do you see of your work achieving the goals you have?

I believe the role of my art is to bring joy and beauty to others. I have no social or political message.

If there were no financial limits whatsoever for you, what constraints would you most like to overstep. Are there other mediums you would explore?

I would be free to experiment more with different types of art and also see how different mediums interact. If money were not an issue, there would be absolutely no limit to what I would try or places I would go to learn different skills. It is just too much to even consider the possibilities.

Did you grow up in Virginia?

I have been in Virginia for only a year. I have always lived in the mid-west (Indiana and Ohio). When it was time for me to retire, my oldest son invited me to move to Virginia to be close to him and his family. I am glad I decided to do just that.

Do you do gallery shows?

I did some shows in Ohio and Indiana but have not had that opportunity as yet in Virginia. It is something I would certainly be open to doing.

Your work is very different from one another with subject matter and actual execution. What inspires you to create? How does a blank canvas become a finished piece?

I think the answer to part of this question can be found in my answer to question 9. I absolutely love to try different things! I love color and shape but I also find such joy in being able to put onto canvas or paper something that is as close to what nature has created as is possible for me to create. Not sure if that answers your entire question but it's the best I can do.

The business side of being an artist: how do you market/promote yourself, and does it work? How do you cope?

Recently I have joined with a few other local artists (we call our group Art X-pressions) and a great marketing person to work on getting our art 'out there' – that is how we got connected with Tanner's Creek Garden Center to form Tanner's Creek Marketplace. I do think it is working but we all realize it just takes time and perseverance. How do I cope? Well, I just believe it will happen and trust God will help with that – I'm a pretty patient person and believe anything worth while is worth waiting for ------ along with a great deal of hard work.

Upcoming Shows:

-Tanner's Creek Marketplace- Every Saturday 9am to 2pm.

(Tanner's Creek is located at the corner of Granby and Lavalette in Norfolk just past the Norfolk Zoo. It's a great opportunity to see a variety of art, check out beautiful plants, koi fish and pond plants and produce from local farmers.)

Links:

Mary Kay Myspace

artbymarykay@yahoo.com

Band: Bully

2008-11-06T16:47:00.000-08:00

Continuing our ALL female artist month, we interviewed ALL female band Bully!
Hope you enjoy it!
(please give us the credit we deserve and do not copy+paste this article, instead direct link to it!)

Who is Bully?

Anita Ibanez - Vocals
Teresa Huffman - Guitar/Vocals
Marty Randall - Bass/Vocals
Beverly Elliot - Drums

Interview:

What is your music background? Did you play instruments growing up?

Anita- I grew up in a musical family, my father was in the Air Force band, my mother was a singer and my brother is a musician, and my sis is just a great artist.
Marty-In high school, I took classical music, can play the violin, and bass. Bev-I grew up in a musical family, father plays in a band and has played ever since I was a baby
Teresa-I was a band geek from middle school through high school.

Growing up, how did music play a role in your childhood/adolescence?

When music is a part of your life growing up, it becomes second nature almost an instinct of destiny so to speak, it was a different experience for all of us, but the desire was the same.

What other activities / things do you enjoy doing when not playing music?

Anita-I like to draw, write, and hang out with my friends and family.
Marty-I run my own screen printing business so I am very busy with that, but when I do have time, I like to draw, write music and spend time with my family.
Bev-I spend time with my family and hang with my friends.
Teresa-I like to write music, spend time with my family and friends

Who are your favorite musicians?

Anita- there are so many for me, I love Mikael Akerfeld from Opeth, female vocalists of metal, nevermore, nightwish, leaves eyes, kataklysm, scar symmetry, I could really go on forever....
Marty-I love so many as well, just to name a few...Hell Yeah, Bloodsimple, Shadows Fall, Chimaira, Megadeth, Alice in Chains, and etc.
Bev-I have a wide range of favorites: Johnny Cash, Fall Out Boy, White Stripes, and the list does go on!
Teresa- Veruca Salt, The Ramones, Chevelle, Corrosion of Conformity, Judas Priest, AC/DC, Motograter, 10 Years, Ra, and Garbage.

How did the band start? Who had the idea and why?

Bev and Teresa, who both played in a band together previously, started BULLY with Jason Campen in 2003. They went looking for a bass player and vocalist. Teresa's husband worked with Marty at the time and kept asking her to try out for the band. But at the time, Marty was playing in another band. I had been in a band with Jason and Bev before and it just so happened they found me at the David Lee Roth/Sammy Hagar concert and asked me if I was interested. Marty and I went in to try out at the same time and joined. Jason soon left the band and we decided to remain 4 girls and go on from there. We started out kind of slow, but we got some songs together and had our first show three months later…history from there.

How would you describe your music to people?

Hard Rock/Metal, our music is a mixture of both. We have melodic vocals and at times very doomish guitar riffs. We write in our own style and try not to be so cookie cutter. Sometimes, people do not know what genre to put us in and that is awesome.

Bully is an all female band. What kind of reaction have you received from the local art community because you are a female band? Has there been any glass ceiling for you? Have you ever been treated differently because you are all women?

The first reaction we receive is always, "They are pop girly girls who don't know how to play hard". But every time we are done with our set, we get the same response, "You guys are so hard, and not what we expected at all". So we are usually greeted with reservation, especially from guys. We get the 'they are just groupies' and are trying to get a date and not serious musicians. Sometimes it pisses us off, but we know that it is just because we are women.

Have you lived in Virginia originally or did you move here? Why Virginia?

Anita-I moved here in 1994 after getting out of the Marines.
Marty-I moved here from Fairfax Virginia and after getting out of the Navy
Bev and Teresa- both grew up here in Hampton roads

Are you happy with the direction the band is going right now? What is the current goal of the band?

BULLY is constantly evolving and we like the direction we are going toward; which is more of a heavier style. We do quite a bit of traveling out of town to get more exposure and try to network with different bands.

How do you balance your music with your other parts of life (job, family)?

We know we have to maintain the family life and our day jobs, and we just work hard to make time for us.

If you could play a show with any band, past or present, who would it be? What music would you want them to perform?

It is different for all of us, but we would be honored to share the stage with any "National Recording Artist" who earned their place on the stage.

Where do you see the band in the next few years?

Hopefully, on a world tour and enjoying playing and writing music for the world.

How would you like to see the local music scene change?

Better treatment toward the bands. Just because we are local, does not mean we don't deserve some respect, all national acts were at one time local.

Do we need to have better venues? Better ways of booking shows?

YES, especially at the bigger venues, we should not have to sell tickets to play.

Which way do you find best to get fans to come out to shows? (word of mouth / internet / flyers)

These days it is the internet and Myspace, but we do flyers, emails and word of mouth.

Links:

Bully dot com

Bully Myspace

for all booking go to:
Angry Joe