Brandi Wilson

Reconstructing -An unenthusiastic acceptance about going through "The Shift" again

2012-02-10T22:48:00.001-08:00

The Shift was a group show I did with Main Street Art Collective at Raw Canvas in Yaletown.

The show was about changing, shifting, moving and morphing. At the time, I was moving through a fairly significant change of my own but I was also feeling pretty unenthusiastic about it. I had already been through a few shifts in my life and was aware of how uncomfortable I felt during those times. I assumed I'd feel similar going through this one.

But instead, I felt ambivalent. Since I had been "there" before, I knew I just had to ride it out. I just had to go through it. Instead of panicking about the uncertainty change brings (which is what I'd done before), I just decided to get my beak and feathers off the shelf, put 'em on and step back into that damned fire. Because, then I could start reconstructing again.

The Shift

2012-02-10T21:54:00.000-08:00

Show at Raw Canvas - The Shift

2011-01-29T21:45:00.000-08:00

Next week, a few of us from Main Street Art Collective (MSAC) will be starting a mural inside of Raw Canvas in Yaletown (1046 Hamilton Street Vancouver, BC).

Some of us are also preparing for a show we are doing there in February. The show is called "The Shift" and will include 19 paintings about creation, transformation and destruction.

I'll post more about opening night when we confirm the details!

The Strip Show

2011-01-26T18:59:00.000-08:00

Hi Everyone :)
I'll be showing three pieces at this upcoming event in Vancouver.
Saturday, March 19 at 9:00pm - March 20 at 2:00am

Box Studios

1622 Franklin & Commercial

Vancouver, BC
David Dimapilis, Studio Head

The box will be strewn with a Strip of Art within the Studio. The show will consist of a salon-style art show with a variety of art pieces within a strip-comic / film strip format outlined on the walls of Box Studios.

Since this is a Private Event, Only Those on the Guestlist will be allowed in the Venue.

Entrance By Donation

DJ NUTTY BEARPAWS + FRIENDS
(Special Live Performance/Private Party for Artists and Friends @ Franklin Room)

VOTE
Peoples Choice Artist Wins a Prize

A R T I S T S:

Matt Mitchell
Mori Pablo
Chelsea Trousdell
Ashleigh Kirkham
Kris Bronlee
Lavi Liao
Gee Gin Yiu
Onyx Avedon
Arin Sieber
Nicole Steen
Jadynn Jorgenson
Marta Ziemnicka
Michael Robertson
Motogirl
Jenn Brisson
Serena Nemerschitsky
Gunsbeforebutter
Serene Yoshiko
Amanda Bullik
Becky Philpot
Jeff Burgess
Lora Shelly
Jamie Bizness
Christopher Williams
Karen Chan
Katie McLellan
Kyle Balluff
Cam Strudwick
Heather Renney
Amanda Murray
Kalynn Kallweit
Rheanna Fancypants
Winnie
Ken
Ben Worth
Fiona Ho
Brandi Wilson
Angus Wakefield

Matt Sesow and Dana Ellyn "31 Days in July Project" for 2010

2010-08-01T12:56:00.000-07:00

Wow. It's hard to believe August is here already. And it's even harder to believe that Matt Sesow and Dana Ellyn just finished their "31 Days in July Project". I am in awe of their dedication and hard work. And even more in awe of their skill and talent.

Congratulations to both for completing another 31 paintings in July!

Matt Sesow's "31 Days in July Project" Painting for July 31, 2010

2010-08-01T12:55:00.000-07:00

From: www.sesow.com

"False Flag"
oil on stretched canvas
30"x40"
contact sesow.com re: availability, click here
"31 Days in July Project", July 31, 2010.
Project started by Matt Sesow in 2003
background: 66 US soldiers killed in the afghanistan war in july 2010. the longest US war in history. the washington post front page highlights the chelsea clinton marriage that will cost 3 million dollars, j-lo celebrity, and some random washington redskins football player.

Dana Ellyn "31 Days in July Project" for July 31, 2010

2010-08-01T12:53:00.000-07:00

From: www.danaellyn.com

July 31, 2010:
66 Dead in July

Sixty six Americans were killed in Afghanistan in July making it the deadliest month in war - the longest war in US history.

(The wedding of Chelsea Clinton gets the premier space on the cover of the Washington Post while this is footnoted at the bottom of the page.)

66 Dead in July
12"x36"
acrylic on canvas
7/31/10

Matt Sesow's "31 Days in July Project" Painting for July 30, 2010

2010-08-01T12:51:00.000-07:00

From: www.sesow.com

"Rabid Panda"
oil on stretched canvas
30"x40"
contact sesow.com re: availability, click here
"31 Days in July Project", July 30, 2010.
Project started by Matt Sesow in 2003
background: front page story about usa taking tougher stance with china, they are now the #2 economy, passing japan.

Dana Ellyn "31 Days in July Project" for July 30, 2010

2010-08-01T12:47:00.000-07:00

From: www.danaellyn.com

July 30, 2010:
Water Water Everywhere, But Not a Drop to Drink

Many unemployed Americans are unable to move in order to find work because they can't sell their homes - their mortgages are 'underwater' (meaning they owe more than the house is currently worth).

Water Water Everywhere, But Not a Drop to Drink
20"x24"
acrylic on canvas
7/30/10

Matt Sesow's "31 Days in July Project" Painting for July 29, 2010

2010-07-29T20:36:00.000-07:00

From: www.sesow.com

"All Americans"
oil on stretched canvas
30"x40"
contact sesow.com re: availability, click here
"31 Days in July Project", July 29, 2010.
Project started by Matt Sesow in 2003
background: front page story about federal judge blocking some sections of Arizona law targeting "illegal immigrants"

Dana Ellyn "31 Days in July Project" for July 29, 2010

2010-07-29T20:35:00.000-07:00

From: www.danaellyn.com

July 29, 2010:
Hiding in Plain Sight

A federal judge blocked some of the most contested portions of Arizona's new immigration law the day before they were scheduled to take effect.

Hiding in Plain Sight
18"x24"
acrylic on canvas
7/29/10

Matt Sesow's "31 Days in July Project" Painting for July 28, 2010

2010-07-29T20:34:00.000-07:00

From: www.sesow.com

"Distraction"
acrylic/oil on stretched canvas
30"x40"
contact sesow.com re: availability, click here
"31 Days in July Project", July 28, 2010.
Project started by Matt Sesow in 2003
background: front page picture of mom with baby (mistakingly switched in hospital, and the 'distraction' of the washington post NOT covering the 37 billion dollar war funding to continue the wars in afghanistan and iraq. 102 democrats voted against Obama's war funding.

Dana Ellyn "31 Days in July Project" for July 28, 2010

2010-07-29T20:32:00.000-07:00

From: www.danaellyn.com

July 28, 2010:
Blackout

Some DC metro areas are still without power after powerful storms ripped through the area on Sunday.

Blackout
12"x16"
acrylic on canvas
7/28/10

Matt Sesow's "31 Days in July Project" Painting for July 27, 2010

2010-07-29T20:31:00.000-07:00

From: www.sesow.com

"Obama's War"
acrylic/oil on stretched canvas
30"x40"
contact sesow.com re: availability, click here
"31 Days in July Project", July 27, 2010.
Project started by Matt Sesow in 2003
background: front page story wikileaks releasing 91,000 classified documents from the war in afghanistan. no coverage on front page about 20th year anniversary of the signing of the americans with disabilities act.

Dana Ellyn "31 Days in July Project" for July 27, 2010

2010-07-29T20:30:00.000-07:00

From: www.danaellyn.com

July 27, 2010:
Gamble - and Reap(er) the Rewards

The US military is using an increasing number of unmanned drones (called "Reaper" drones) in the war against the Taliban. These drones are remotely controlled by US soldiers at a base outside Las Vegas Nevada. Some drones attacks have resulted in civilian casualties.

Gamble
(and Reap(er) the Rewards)
11"x14"
oil on canvas
7/27/10

Matt Sesow's "31 Days in July Project" Painting for July 26, 2010

2010-07-29T20:29:00.001-07:00

From: www.sesow.com

"The Golden Parachute"
acrylic/oil on stretched canvas
30"x40"
contact sesow.com re: availability, click here
"31 Days in July Project", July 26, 2010.
Project started by Matt Sesow in 2003
background: front page story about Tony Hayward leaving BP, but with a golden parachute (executive compensation)

Dana Ellyn "31 Days in July Project" for July 26, 2010

2010-07-29T20:25:00.000-07:00

From: www.danaellyn.com

Spoon Fed
18"x24"
acrylic on canvas
$500
7/26/10

Matt Sesow's "31 Days in July Project" Painting for July 25, 2010

2010-07-29T20:24:00.001-07:00

From: www.sesow.com

"Teacher's Pet, War Dog, with predator"
oil on stretched canvas
30"x40"
contact sesow.com re: availability, click here
"31 Days in July Project", July 25, 2010.
Project started by Matt Sesow in 2003
background: front page story covering two missing american troops in afghanistan, dog days of summer, and unsavory story on bad teacher.

Dana Ellyn "31 Days in July Project" for July 25, 2010

2010-07-29T20:21:00.000-07:00

From: www.danaellyn.com

July 25, 2010:
Homeroom Happy Hour

The Washington Post publishes a story about Kevin Ricks - a teacher, tutor, and camp counselor with an extensive history of sexual abuse of students over the course of several decades. He would sometimes ply his victims with shots of tequila.

Homeroom Happy Hour
18"x24"
acrylic on canvas

7/25/10

Matt Sesow's "31 Days in July Project" Painting for July 24, 2010

2010-07-29T20:19:00.000-07:00

From: www.sesow.com

"Outsider Ambition"
oil on stretched canvas
30"x40"
contact sesow.com re: availability, click here
"31 Days in July Project", July 24, 2010.
Project started by Matt Sesow in 2003
background: front page story covering the passing of reporter daniel schorr, considered an outsider. and recent emails.

Dana Ellyn "31 Days in July Project" for July 24, 2010

2010-07-29T20:17:00.000-07:00

From: www.danaellyn.com

July 24, 2010:
Apple for the Teacher

It was announced on Friday that 241 teachers were fired by DC Schools Chancellor Michelle Rhee. It's the first time that DC teachers are being held accountable under a new evaluation system based on students' standardized test scores.

Apple for the Teacher
18"x24"
acrylic on canvas

7/24/10

Matt Sesow's "31 Days in July Project" Painting for July 23, 2010

2010-07-29T20:16:00.001-07:00

From: www.sesow.com
For July 23, 2010

"Inseparable"
acrylic on stretched canvas
30"x40"
contact sesow.com re: availability, click here
"31 Days in July Project", July 23, 2010.
Project started by Matt Sesow in 2003
background: coverage of the controversy surrounding the differing tribes and factions within afghanistan opposing president karzai.

Dana Ellyn "31 Days in July Project" for July 23, 2010

2010-07-29T20:08:00.000-07:00

From: www.danaellyn.com
For July 23, 2010:

Tea Party

In the Senate race in Nevada, Sharron Angle is running against Harry Reid. Angle is a favorite of the "tea party" movement.

Tea Party
20"x24"
oil on canvas

7/23/10

Matt Sesow's "31 Days in July Project" Painting for July 22, 2010

2010-07-29T20:07:00.000-07:00

From: www.sesow.com
For July 22, 2010

"Borderline, with Polleros and Coyotes"
oil on stretched canvas
30"x40"
contact sesow.com re: availability, click here
"31 Days in July Project", July 22, 2010.
Project started by Matt Sesow in 2003
background: cover story covering the growing frustration and controversy over Arizona's anti-illegal immigrant legislation.
polleros ('chicken wranglers') and coyotes help people across american border for a fee

Dana Ellyn "31 Days in July Project" for July 22, 2010

2010-07-29T20:06:00.000-07:00

From: www.danaellyn.com
For July 22, 2010:

Jumping into the Game

The US announces plans to strengthen existing sanctions against North Korea after blaming the country for the sinking of a South Korean warship. The US and South Korea also announced that they plan to hold "large scale" military exercises to attempt to deter future North Korean hostility.

Jumping into the Game
18"x24"
acrylic on canvas

7/22/10

Matt Sesow's "31 Days in July Project" Painting for July 21, 2010

2010-07-29T20:05:00.001-07:00

From: www.sesow.com
For July 21, 2010

"Tea Party"
oil on stretched canvas
30"x40"
contact sesow.com re: availability, click here
"31 Days in July Project", July 21, 2010.
Project started by Matt Sesow in 2003
background: cover story on riff between naacp and tea party over charges of racisim

Dana Ellyn "31 Days in July Project" for July 21, 2010

2010-07-29T19:56:00.000-07:00

From: www.danaellyn.com
July 21, 2010:

Diamonds Are a Girl's Best Friend?

President Obama signed a new financial reform bill today (July 21, 2010) which includes an obscure passage that requires thousands of US companies to ensure that their products don't contain "conflict minerals" from the Democratic Republic of Congo. Some hope that this will be a step toward the international community curbing trade on other items such as "blood diamonds".

This painting depicts a woman from the Congo dressed in the iconic pink dress and gloves that Marilyn Monroe wore while performing the song "Diamonds are a Girl's Best Friend" in the movie "Gentlemen prefer Blondes".

Diamonds Are a Girl's Best Friend?
12"x12"
acrylic on canvas

7/21/10

Matt Sesow's "31 Days in July Project" Painting for July 20, 2010

2010-07-29T19:53:00.000-07:00

From: www.sesow.com
For July 20,2010

"Birds and Bees"
acrylic/oil on stretched canvas
30"x40"
contact sesow.com re: availability, click here
"31 Days in July Project", July 20, 2010.
Project started by Matt Sesow in 2003
background: front page story covering a new gell that reduces aids risk in women

Dana Ellyn "31 Days in July Project" for July 20, 2010

2010-07-29T19:51:00.000-07:00

From: www.danaellyn.com
July 20, 2010:

Birds and the Bees

A study has found that a new vaginal gel can cut the risk of a woman's infection with HIV by 39% or more.

The simple talk about the 'birds and the bees' doesn't quite cover the realities of life. And teaching abstinence is not the answer either... as in the story of the Annunciation, abstinence is only 99% effective.

Birds and the Bees
14"x18"
oil on canvas

7/20/10

Matt Sesow's "31 Days in July Project" Painting for July 19, 2010

2010-07-29T19:45:00.000-07:00

From: www.sesow.com
For July 19, 2010

"Pig Slaughter, at liberty crossing."
oil on stretched canvas
30"x40"
contact sesow.com re: availability, click here
"31 Days in July Project", July 19, 2010.
Project started by Matt Sesow in 2003
background: front page stories on 'hidden world' of top secret employees of usa govt. and on 'seat hogs' on metro. liberty crossing is a local hideout for several top-secret usa govt. employees.
a story on 'sausage making' / secret washington, dc

Dana Ellyn "31 Days in July Project" for July 19, 2010

2010-07-29T19:29:00.000-07:00

From: www.danaellyn.com
For July 19, 2010:

Seat Hogs, Worker Bees and Sheeple

The Washington Post runs a front page story about 'seat hogs' - people who sit in the aisle seat and refuse to move over or spread out their belongings (or themselves) so nobody can sit next to them... even during the height of the rush hour commute. One of the stories inside the paper was about the suicide bombing in Kabul that killed three. The story described a man who ran to the site of the blast and saw the head of what he thought to be the bomber. He said "I wanted to kick the suicide bomber's head, but the security guards wouldn't let me". I depicted an image of that on the front page of the newspaper in the painting.

Seat Hogs, Worker Bees and Sheeple
20"x24"
acrylic on canvas

7/19/10

Matt Sesow's "31 Days in July Project" Painting for July 18, 2010

2010-07-29T19:26:00.000-07:00

From: www.sesow.com
For July 18, 2010

"Suicide Bombers"
oil on stretched canvas
30"x40"
contact sesow.com re: availability, click here
"31 Days in July Project", July 18, 2010.
Project started by Matt Sesow in 2003
background: suicide bomb attacks in pakistan, afghanistan, and iraq.

Dana Ellyn "31 Days in July Project" for July 18, 2010

2010-07-29T19:09:00.000-07:00

From: www.danaellyn.com
For July 18, 2010:

American Tourist

A consultant service in China helps wealthy Chinese mothers travel to the U.S. to give birth .... guaranteeing a US passport and citizenship to the new baby. For a $1,475 fee, the expectant mother spends three months at a Chinese owned baby care center in California. Included in the fee; a room with cable TV, internet and for an additional $35 (per day), three meals per day.

American Tourist
18"x24"
acrylic on canvas

7/18/10

Matt Sesow's "31 Days in July Project" Painting for July 11, 2010

2010-07-18T17:46:00.000-07:00

From: www.sesow.com
For July 17, 2010

"Employee of the Month"
oil on stretched canvas
30"x40"
contact sesow.com re: availability, click here
"31 Days in July Project", July 16, 2010.
Project started by Matt Sesow in 2003
background: timmothy geithbwr gets more power and drug in mexico intensifies.

Dana Ellyn "31 Days in July Project" for July 17, 2010

2010-07-18T17:44:00.000-07:00

From: www.danaellyn.com
For July 17, 2010:

Dropping the Veil

This week, the French parliament voted to ban the full-length veil in public. This news didn't get much coverage in the American press. Today, on the opinion page of the Washington Post, an article on the veil ban made mention of the pioneering Egyptian feminist, Hoda Shaawari ... which inspired today's painting. "In 1923 Shaarawi founded and became the first president of the Egyptian Feminist Union, which sent her to an international feminist meeting in Rome. Upon her return, she removed her face veil in public for the first time, a signal event in the history of Egyptian feminism." (from the Hoda Shaarawi fan page)

Dropping the Veil
14"x18"
oil on canvas

7/17/10

Matt Sesow's "31 Days in July Project" Painting for July 16, 2010

2010-07-18T17:43:00.000-07:00

From: www.sesow.com
From July 16, 2010

"American Soldier"
oil on stretched canvas
30"x40"
contact sesow.com re: availability, click here
"31 Days in July Project", July 16, 2010.
Project started by Matt Sesow in 2003
background: obama's war in afghanistan continues. 37 American soldiers killed in afghanistan this month so far.

Dana Ellyn "31 Days in July Project" for July 16, 2010

2010-07-18T17:40:00.000-07:00

From: www.danaellyn.com
For July 16, 2010:

Bull and Bear

Monumental financial regulation bill passes in the Senate. Will we see a future with a bear or bull market?

Bull and Bear
20"x20"
acrylic on canvas

7/16/10

Matt Sesow's "31 Days in July Project" Painting for July 15, 2010

2010-07-18T17:39:00.000-07:00

From: www.sesow.com
For July 15, 2010

"Codependent"
oil on stretched canvas
30"x40"
contact sesow.com re: availability, click here
"31 Days in July Project", July 15, 2010.
Project started by Matt Sesow in 2003
background: Front page story on codependence of american troops on afghanistan elders

Dana Ellyn "31 Days in July Project" for July 15, 2010

2010-07-18T17:37:00.000-07:00

From: www.danaellyn.com

July 15, 2010:

Brand New Top Hat

The new cap that was supposed to control the gushing of oil in to the Gulf sprung a leak on Wednesday July 14th. The leak has been located and repairs are underway and then testing will begin anew. Depending on the outcome of the tests, a new "top hat" may be placed over the gusher.

Brand New Top Hat
18"x24"
acrylic on canvas

7/15/10

Matt Sesow's "31 Days in July Project" Painting for July 14, 2010

2010-07-18T17:35:00.000-07:00

From: www.sesow.com
For July 14, 2010

"the Drunk Skipper"
acrylic on stretched canvas
30"x40"
contact sesow.com re: availability, click here
"31 Days in July Project", July 14, 2010.
Project started by Matt Sesow in 2003
background: Front page story on comparing exxon valdez (and talking about the 'heavily drinking skipper' responsible for the exxon spill)

Dana Ellyn "31 Days in July Project" for July 14, 2010

2010-07-18T17:34:00.000-07:00

From: www.danaellyn.com

For July 14, 2010:

Mama Grizzly

Sarah Palin's political action committee released a new video on YouTube with a montage of clips from past speeches. In the video, Sarah describes a "Mom awakening", using the analogy of being a moma grizzly ready to maul anyone who tries "to do something adverse toward their cubs."

Mama Grizzly
20"x24"
acrylic on canvas

7/14/10

Matt Sesow's "31 Days in July Project" Painting for July 13, 2010

2010-07-18T17:32:00.000-07:00

From: www.sesow.com
For July 13, 2010

"Splendor"
oil on stretched canvas
30"x40"
contact sesow.com re: availability, click here
"31 Days in July Project", July 13, 2010.
Project started by Matt Sesow in 2003
background: Front page story on how obama supporters are losing 'faith'. also the passing of harvey pekar (not on the front page)

Dana Ellyn "31 Days in July Project" for July 13, 2010

2010-07-18T17:30:00.000-07:00

From: www.danaellyn.com
For July 13, 2010:

Top Hat

BP puts a containment cap on the leaking well, called a "top hat".

Top Hat
18"x24"
acrylic on canvas

7/13/10

Matt Sesow's "31 Days in July Project" Painting for July 12, 2010

2010-07-18T17:29:00.000-07:00

From: www.sesow.com
For July 12, 2010

"Blacklisted"
oil on stretched canvas
30"x40"
contact sesow.com re: availability, click here
"31 Days in July Project", July 12, 2010.
Project started by Matt Sesow in 2003
background: Front page story on how president karzai of afghanistan wants some taliban members to be trimmed from UN blacklist. used picture of karzai in the day's post for the painting.

Dana Ellyn "31 Days in July Project" for July 12, 2010

2010-07-18T17:26:00.000-07:00

From: www.danaellyn.com
For July 12, 2010:

Three Ring (Media) Circus

This painting is a commentary on the newspaper's choice of what stories to put on the cover each day. Too often, a sports or human interest story dominates the front page and little or no coverage is given to many more pressing issues.

In the left ring, a clown poses holding the iconic "Hands of Victory" swords from Baghdad.
In the center ring, the bull represents Spain winning the World Cup and/or a reference to the economy (bull / bear market). A Hollywood starlet stands atop the bull to represent the fascination with movie stars and pop culture news.
In the right ring, a human cannonball is shot from a cannon decorated with the Israeli flag - a reference to Israeli's recent attack on the Turkish aid ships headed to Gaza (and the diverting of the Libyan aid ship that was headed to Gaza).
Flying through the air is an acrobat with an Uncle Sam hat pulled over his eyes to represent the unmanned predator drones being used by the US against the Taliban in Pakistan.

Three Ring (Media) Circus
30"x40"
oil on canvas

7/12/10

Matt Sesow's "31 Days in July Project" Painting for July 11, 2010

2010-07-18T17:21:00.000-07:00

From: w ww.sesow.com
For July 11

"Cute" (Obama and the media's War)
oil on stretched canvas
30"x40"
contact sesow.com re: availability, click here
"31 Days in July Project", July 11, 2010.
Project started by Matt Sesow in 2003
background: Front page story on a 'fox hunting ban' in the UK. wihout mention of 6 US soldiers that died in Afghanistan, but no front page story mention... instead a 'cute' picture of hound dogs

Dana Ellyn "31 Days in July Project" for July 11, 2010

2010-07-18T17:19:00.000-07:00

From: www.danaellyn.com
For July 11, 2010:

Atheist in a Foxhole

The Washington Post publishes a story on the front page about Britian's Conservative party's hopes of overturning the ban on fox hunting.

No prominent coverage is given to the six US troops killed in Afghanistan on Saturday (nor is there mention of the ongoing war and violence in Iraq). "Atheist in a Foxhole" is a reminder that, although it is rarely in the forefront of the news anymore, the US is still involved in two wars.... Afghanistan being the longest war in American history.

Atheist in a Foxhole
11"x18"
acrylic on wood

7/11/10

Matt Sesow's "31 Days in July Project" Painting for July 10, 2010

2010-07-17T19:04:00.000-07:00

From: www.sesow.com
For July 10, 2010

"Fish (with COREXIT dispersant)"
oil on stretched canvas
30"x40"
contact sesow.com re: availability, click here
"31 Days in July Project", July 10, 2010.
Project started by Matt Sesow in 2003
background: Front page story on "Seafood with a side of dread" how fishermen are hurt by the BP spill/eruption. COREXIT is the dispersant used by BP to hide the oil, break it up, take it out of sight. it is toxic and there aren't tests for it yet in the fish people eat.

Dana Ellyn "31 Days in July Project" for July 10, 2010

2010-07-17T19:02:00.000-07:00

From: www.danaellyn.com

For July 10, 2010:

Seafood with a Side of Dread

The BP oil spill in the Gulf Coast has far reaching consequences through the seafood industry.

Seafood with a Side of Dread
14"x18"
acrylic on canvas

7/10/10

Matt Sesow's "31 Days in July Project" Painting for July 9, 2010

2010-07-17T19:01:00.000-07:00

From: www.sesow.com
For July 9, 2010

"Swapped"
oil on stretched canvas
30"x40"
contact sesow.com re: availability, click here
"31 Days in July Project", July 9, 2010.
Project started by Matt Sesow in 2003
background: Front page story on how US and russia reach deal on spy exchange. picture from post of freed russian prisoner igor siutyagin.

Dana Ellyn "31 Days in July Project" for July 9, 2010

2010-07-17T18:59:00.000-07:00

From: www.danaellyn.com

For July 9, 2010:

Swap

The United States and Russia negotiate an historic spy swap.

Swap
22"x28"
oil on canvas

7/9/10

Matt Sesow's "31 Days in July Project" Painting for July 8, 2010

2010-07-17T18:58:00.000-07:00

From: www.sesow.com
For July 8, 2010

"Freedom (with gitmo detainee)"
oil on stretched canvas
30"x40"
contact sesow.com re: availability, click here
"31 Days in July Project", July 8, 2010.
Project started by Matt Sesow in 2003
background: Front page pictures and stories about how lebron james, a basketball free-agent, is worth 100 million dollars, how cuba sets free 52 dissidents (using picture of happy fans from spain world cup semi-final victory). gitmo prisoner added to reflect obama's so far broken campaign promise to close gitmo.

Dana Ellyn "31 Days in July Project" for July 8, 2010

2010-07-17T18:56:00.000-07:00

From: www.danaellyn.com
For July 8, 2010:

Her Humble Highness

Historic budget cuts are being put in place in the financially ailing Britian. It is said that even the queen is making changes by freezing royal staff salaries and cutting some staff (which includes a royal piper that serenades her each morning outside her window and an official swan counter).

Her Humble Highness
14"x18"
oil on canvas

7/8/10

Matt Sesow's "31 Days in July Project" Painting for July 7, 2010

2010-07-17T18:53:00.000-07:00

From: www.sesow.com
For July 7, 2010

"Queen, with inbred"
oil on stretched canvas
30"x40"
contact sesow.com re: availability, click here
"31 Days in July Project", July 7, 2010.
Project started by Matt Sesow in 2003
background: Front page story regarding the queen's visit to the UN, and also a picture depicting the heat in DC, a dog in a tub of water, reflecting the 100 degree+ temperatures.

Dana Ellyn "31 Days in July Project" for July 7, 2010

2010-07-17T18:51:00.000-07:00

From: www.danaellyn.com

For July 7, 2010:

Albatross, Albatross

On July 7, 2010 The Washington Post front page headline read, "(Michael) Steele seen as an albatross for the GOP..."
On a personal note, I have never wanted children - seeing them as an albatross for the life I want to lead.

Albatross, Albatross
18"x24"
acrylic on canvas

7/7/10

Matt Sesow's "31 Days in July Project" Painting for July 6, 2010

2010-07-17T18:50:00.000-07:00

From: www.sesow.com

For July 6, 2010

"A Bear, a Bull, and a little donkey"
oil on stretched canvas
30"x40"
contact sesow.com re: availability, click here
"31 Days in July Project", July 6, 2010.
Project started by Matt Sesow in 2003
background: Story on front page how democrats are worried and targeted by wall street , and they may loose support based on finance reforms.

Dana Ellyn "31 Days in July Project" for July 6, 2010

2010-07-17T18:48:00.000-07:00

From: www.danaellyn.com

For July 6, 2010:

Pieta Pelican

BP is falling far short of in their cleanup efforts - only skimming or buring a fraction of what they promised regulators that they could.
One rescuer tells the following story about their work trying to save the oil soaked animals in the Gulf; "He had Frank Sinatra blue eyes...My friend was holding him and she felt him take about four more breaths... he just died in our arms."

Pieta Pelican
20"x20"
oil on canvas

7/6/10

Matt Sesow's "31 Days in July Project" Painting for July 5, 2010

2010-07-17T18:45:00.000-07:00

From: www.sesow.com
For July 5, 2010

"Plutocracy"
oil on stretched canvas
30"x40"
contact sesow.com re: availability, click here
"31 Days in July Project", July 5, 2010.
Project started by Matt Sesow in 2003
background: Front page story how "BP still does big federal business, $980 million in pentagon sales"

Dana Ellyn "31 Days in July Project" for July 5, 2010

2010-07-17T18:43:00.000-07:00

From: www.danaellyn.com
For July 5, 2010:

It's No Use Crying Over Spilled Oil

Oil continues to spew from the Deepwater Horizon well.
The Defense Department continues to purchase an immense amount of fuel and petroleum products from BP.
A Taiwanese ship called 'A Whale' is the world's largest skimmer - it arrived near the spill on Saturday but is currently hindered by bad weather in the Gulf.

It's No Use Crying Over Spilled Oil
18"x24"
acrylic on canvas

7/5/10

Matt Sesow's "31 Days in July Project" Painting for July 4, 2010

2010-07-17T18:40:00.000-07:00

From: www.sesow.com

"Cat and Mouse"
oil on stretched canvas
30"x40"
contact sesow.com re: availability, click here
"31 Days in July Project", July 4, 2010.
Project started by Matt Sesow in 2003
background: Spys from Russia caught in the USA, tracking them down described as a game of cat and mouse.

Dana Ellyn "31 Days in July Project" for July 4, 2010

2010-07-17T18:34:00.000-07:00

From: http://www.danaellyn.com
For July 4, 2010:

Fireworks, Flags, and (Don't Forget the) Fear!

The Washington Post published an article today on the front page about the administration's top officials who have the daunting task of guarding the nation's safety (this article appeared on the Post's website 2 days earlier). The timing of the article perhaps is meant to remind us all that the 'boogeyman' is still out there as we celebrate this 4th of July.

From the article:
"The actual physical threat to America today from abroad, in reality, is worse than it as in the Cold War."
"The NCTC...produces a daily threat matrix, which averages 15 or more wide-ranging terrorist threats agains American interests, outside Iraq and Afghanistan."
"We don't anticipate too well where stuff comes from in these wars. Our ability to predict is pretty lousy."
"The enemy America's fighting...killed 3,000. But they would like to kill 30,000 or 300,000. ... They have no limits in what they'll do to kill us."

Fireworks, Flags
And (Don't Forget the) Fear
12"x12"
acrylic on canvas

7/4/10

Matt Sesow's "31 Days in July Project" Painting for July 3, 2010

2010-07-16T12:12:00.000-07:00

"Nighthawks"
oil on stretched canvas
30"x40"
contact sesow.com re: availability, click here
"31 Days in July Project", July 3, 2010.
Project started by Matt Sesow in 2003
background: Front page story on 'nighthawks' working in obama administration all night to ensure US security. image inspired by 'nighthawks' painting by edward hopper.

Dana Ellyn "31 Days in July Project" for July 3, 2010

2010-07-16T12:08:00.000-07:00

From: http://www.danaellyn.com

July 3, 2010:

66 Children

Sometimes it's what doesn't make the news that is important. On July 3rd 1988, Iran Air Fligh 655, a civilian airliner, was shot down by US missiles killing all 290 passengers (including 66 children). The US government says the crew mistakenly identified the civilian plane as an enemy F-14. The US has never admitted any wrongdoing, responsibility nor have they apologized to Iran.

66 Children
12"x36"
acrylic on canvas

7/3/10

Dana Ellyn "31 Days in July Project" for July 2, 2010

2010-07-16T10:53:00.000-07:00

From: http://www.danaellyn.com

July 2, 2010:

Last Call

"Last Call" was inspired by three of today's top news stories on the cover of the Washington Post.
1. 'Casablanca Rick's Bar of Kabul', a long time favorite bar of expats in Afghanistan closes its doors for good. (*Lamp and wall design inspired by Rick's Bar in the movie Casablanca)
2. Work runs dry at an oyster shucking plant in the Chesapeake bay (that imports much of their oysters from the Gulf) due to the BP oil spill. (*The pearls in the painting drip with oil)
3. Senator Byrd is taken to the Capitol where he will lay in repose. (*Bird finneal on the lamp).

Last Call
18"x24"
acrylic on canvas

7/2/10

Matt Sesow's "31 Days in July Project" Painting for July 2, 2010

2010-07-16T10:40:00.000-07:00

http://www.sesow.com/31days.htm

"Byrd, Bees, and a cyclops head"
oil on stretched canvas
30"x40"

contact sesow.com re: availability, click here
"31 Days in July Project", July 2, 2010.
Project started by Matt Sesow in 2003
background: Sen. Byrd passes away and is laid to rest. former 'exhalted cyclops' of the kkk turned US senator

Description of the "31 Days in July Project" from Matt Sesow's website:
"The following series of works are part of Matt Sesow's "31 Days in July Project", conceived, invented by, and begun in 2003 by Sesow.
Each day in July, Sesow begins a unique painting (30" x 40") in response to an article or series of articles on the front page of the Washington Post print edition. All 31 paintings are completed by midnight July 31st.

This project occurs each year during the month of July. Results will be posted here on sesow.com and are usually available for sale to collectors and galleries."

Matt Sesow's "31 Days in July Project"

2010-07-09T13:12:00.000-07:00

One of my favorite living artists, Matt Sesow is doing a painting to represent each of the 31 Days in July. He began the annual ritual in 2003 with his then girlfriend (now wife), Dana Ellyn and has been doing it every year since.

As part of Matt's 31 Days in July Project each of the full time painters begin a new piece of work each day. They give themselves until the 31st at midnight to complete all paintings for the project. Each piece represents their response to the days corresponding news and is posted for sale on their respective websites when completed.

It's important to have successful LIVING artists to look up to. Both of these artists are undeniably talented, wonderfully expressive and bloody brilliant. And the best part is they're also extremely focused, hard working and very dedicated to their work.

I love that they represent themselves (as far as I know) and that anyone can afford to purchase one of their pieces. You can find incredible art on both their websites for under $1000 (and many for less than $500)! It's true - see for yourself, www.sesow.com and www.danaellyn.com.

They are incredibly inspiring and I always look forward to seeing what they do next. As a tribute to them I am posting each of their paintings from this year's "31 Days in July Project" :)

http://www.danaellyn.com/7_10/july1.html

Puppeteer
(In the theater of war)

Dana Ellyn
24"x48"
acrylic on canvas
7/1/10

http://www.sesow.com/paintings/july2k10/july12k10.jpg

"Imperialism"

Matt Sesow

oil on stretched canvas
30"x40"
$700
"31 Days in July Project", July 1, 2010.
Project started by Matt Sesow in 2003

Art Collective.

2010-05-22T21:49:00.000-07:00

So, I went to a meeting of artists today. A woman named Kim Villagante posted a message on Craigslist asking if any local artists wanted to get together to share ideas etc. I couldn't make the first meeting, but was able to be there tonight. We decided to call our collective the Main Street Art Collective.

It was the first time I had met with other artists. I think there are about 10 of us and all seem to have varying backgrounds, styles. During their first meeting they decided we'd do a group show which I'm looking forward to.

Anyway, the reason I'm blogging about it is because it brought my attention to the question, "What kind of art do you do?" I have been thinking about this a lot over the last few months because I've been transitioning back towards creating images that are more literal manifestations of whatever I'm going through (or have gone through) rather than more abstract. So.... going back to creating paintings like "Holes" or "Think Straight" and moving away from creating paintings like "Many" or "Pieces of Color 5". It's still expressionism, still self-taught and still amateur but is less abstract and more symbolic -- or illustrative, I suppose. I'm still attempting to somehow materialize my cognitions and emotions.

Going to the meeting was an interesting self-challenge. I have confidence in many areas of my life, but my art is not one of them. I seem to be rather insecure about everything I create. Instead, I would like to feel more settled or even proud of what I make.

When I'm insecure, I become preoccupied with my perception of what I believe other people will think. Or I use "Will this look good in someone's living room" to dictate colors, shapes, composition etc.

I first started drawing when I was about 9 I think. I used drawing combined with writing to express my thoughts and feelings. I would usually only write and draw when I was experiencing something upsetting. For example, I remember doing several stick man pictures with journal-like entries about my parents separation. It was an extremely difficult time that would impact our family greatly during the years that followed.

I also remember realizing the power of art when I came across a Van Gogh painting in one of my mom's Art History Books when I was about 13. At the time, I felt very alone in some of my experiences. But when I saw Van Gogh's colors, movement and intensity I realized I was not alone. For the first time I knew that even if I never related to anyone again, I could always relate to this guy. It created an important connection for me. And that moment was pivotal.

I never thought of myself as a writer or an artist (or even a creative person) until my adulthood. But I continued to write and draw as a way to work-stuff-out. I've since burned some of my journals/sketchbooks but still have about 20 of them stashed somewhere in the back of a closet.

There have been a few periods during my life that I almost solely relied on drawing or painting to survive. I mean that quite literally. Those periods were during times of great duress caused by intense emotions and images. They were during times when there simply were no words to describe or process what I was experiencing. Words didn't work because I wasn't fully developed enough to make any sense of the experience, didn't have the vocabulary to process it or because I needed more than mere words to process it.

One example is after my sister's death. I was very impacted by it and for a loooong time couldn't seem to "get it out of me". Or at least move through it. I felt a need work through it, but not being able to almost made it worse. So I turned to felt pens and oil pastels to create shapes and colors that seemed to provide me with a better sense of expression.

Is that art? I don't know. But it is what I intuitively do and will continue to do it whether it is art or not. None-the-less , I think it is an interesting question.

Another Sketchbook Project

2010-04-07T17:46:00.000-07:00

I've been working on another Sketchbook with the Art House Coop. This one is called The Fiction Project and is supposed to be comprised of at least 51% writing. And like the other project, I received a random topic to help give me some parameters to work within. My topic is "This is where we start".

Instead of writing a fiction story and adding pictures to help explain my words, I decided to create pictures and then use words to help explain my images. I've only created about 7 pages and have another 33 to go. I'll keep you posted.

So, after thinking about my topic, "This is where we start", I decided to make my theme about different states of being. At the time that I decided to use this theme, I was intending on exploring the different states of being experienced by those affected by any kind of mental illness. I wanted to explore everything from mild anxiety or depression to extreme fragmenting or psychosis. There isn't enough general awareness about such states and I wanted to contribute (even in this smallest way) to generating awareness about them. But after drawing a few pictures, I realized I could only draw from what I've experienced (whether it be my own state of being, something I've read or my experience of someone else's state etc). I realize this was too limited. So now I'm incorporating all states of being (ie emotional states, perceptions of self, perceptions of others in relation to self, internal conflict, thoughts, memories,perceptions etc). Regardless of what state of being I'm depicting, they are all MY observations or experiences. So, the images are all subjective expressions.

I have to go make dinner now but I wanted to write more. I wanted to describe why I'm allowing myself to create very child-like images for these Sketchbooks. And I wanted to write about what artists paint and whether it matters whether their inspiration is derived from intrinsic or extrinsic sources. I recently had a lengthy discussion with a friend about artists and their various states of being as well as the validity of certain kinds of art - particularly art that is self taught and strictly inspired by one's own emotions, thoughts, perceptions, memories and experiences. But, I am hungry and need to eat so I will leave those topics for another time.

This blog has moved

2010-03-31T19:39:00.001-07:00

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Sketchbook Project Exhibition

2010-02-18T16:07:00.001-08:00

The Sketchbook Project is exhibiting at 303 Grand in Brooklyn on Friday, Saturday and Sunday.

The Sketchbook Project
Friday, February 18th 8:00-11:00pm (with a Q&A session from 7:00-8:00pm)
Saturday, February 19th 8:00-11:00pm
Sunday, February 20th 12:00-2:00pm

303 Grand
303 Grand St
Brooklyn, NY 11211

Also, check out a feature that is running in Time Out NY this week about the exhibition and project! It also features interviews with four NYC based artists who participated.

2010-01-11T19:35:00.000-08:00

Well, it's 2010.

I've been extremely busy over the past couple of months due to Christmas, work, the new year and...I got a PUPPY!

She has been keeping me very busy, but I am loving every moment of it. However, I do feel like it's been months since I've painted anything - and that's not too far from reality.

This month I completed my "And Suddenly..." book and sent it back to Atlanta so it could go on tour and end up in New York. Community art is cool.

I also just spent a few hours working on another tree for the tree series. It felt great to have a paint brush in my hand again. I'm mostly happy with the painting, but it's not finished quite yet.

I'm hoping to get about 10 paintings into a North Van salon before the end of January (just coordinating times with the owner) and will certainly post their location as soon as I get them up.

Anyway, just wanted to write a quick update since it's been way too long since I posted last. I hope you are all enjoying 2010 so far and I'll talk to you soon!

Anonymous Art Show

2009-11-13T15:48:00.000-08:00

This year I'm participating in the North Vancouver Arts Council and CityScape's 5th annual "Anonymous Art Show".

It's a group exhibition and fundraising event that allows anyone to enter. All art must be 2 dimensional on 8x8x1.5 inch canvas with artist information on the back only so all pieces can be sold anonymously. All pieces that are submitted and are within the exhibition guidelines will be shown.

Each painting will be sold for $100 with 50% going back to the artist and the other 50% staying with the Arts Council (to go towards community programs, projects and events).

The exhibition will be at North Vancouver's CityScape Community Art Space. It will open on Thursday, November 26th at 7:00pm and continue until Saturday, December 19th, giving the community an opportunity to purchase original art in time for Christmas :)

Now I've got to go so I can paint at least ONE before the deadline which is tomorrow!!

Sketchbook Project (Art House Coop)

2009-11-04T23:26:00.000-08:00

I've been busy lately :)

I'm still in the midst of finishing Tree #6 but I've also been creating at least a "sketch" per day for the Art House Co-op Sketchbook Library Project. I love what they are doing and I love that I'm part of a collective of people from around the globe. I love looking through the submission photos and seeing what everyone is doing.

How it works:
Anyone can sign up to participate. For a small fee ($17 I think?) you get a moleskin sketchbook and a randomly chosen theme (1 of 30 previously created by Art House). Mine is "And suddenly...". Then you simply fill up your sketchbook how ever you want and send it back in by the deadline (I think it's in March 2010).

The Co-op take all the sketchbooks on a mini tour for shows in multiple U.S. locations before settling back into their permanent location in Brooklyn, NY. There will be a library created for them where visitors can "sign out" the books (all the sketchbooks come to you with a bar code and library card) while visiting.

Pretty cool.

Trees, Trees and More Trees

2009-10-29T20:18:00.000-07:00

Tonight I'm working on another tree for my Tree Series. This one will be similar to the original "Tree" but with a greater contrast between shapes, colors and textures and no shapes, minimal color and smooth texture.

I'm still going to use oil paint for the spaces around the tree since I can usually get a very smooth finish with oils. Oils also blend much easier than acrylics and I want a very smooth, soft and blended appearance for the outside areas.

I'll also still use acrylics for the inside of the tree. Acrylics allow me to use multiple colors quickly and freely without them mixing together (even if they come in contact with one another). I want the inside to consist of multiple shapes, lines, colors and textures. I want the colors to be in their purest form so they are strong and vibrant. I'm trying to create a sort of multiplicity or movement - free flowing, raw and expressive. And in contrast, I want the areas around the tree to be very still, beautiful, calm and almost bland.

The shape of the tree itself is also important to me. I draw and re-draw for hours (no idea why it takes hours - I just keep drawing and drawing and drawing until I think it looks "right"). I use white chalk on the canvas so I can easily wipe it off and draw again. I like interesting and slightly odd or awkward curves and lines.

The challenge will be painting inside of the tree freely and expressively without going beyond the boundaries of the tree itself.

Why do I all of the sudden feel like I'm philosophizing and writing in metaphors??? Who knew I could get so deep about a tree painting...

Anyway, I finished creating the shape of the tree last weekend and now I get to figure out how to best go about unleashing the shapes, colors and textures!

I'll keep ya posted :)

Welcome!

2009-10-28T16:56:00.001-07:00

Hello - And welcome to my blog!

I"ll be posting over the next few days, so please come back and check it out soon!