Art Feature Archives - ZO Magazine https://zomagazine.com/category/art-feature/ Sat, 24 Dec 2022 16:12:06 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=6.1.3 https://i0.wp.com/zomagazine.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/01/Separator-circle-w.jpg?fit=32%2C32&ssl=1 Art Feature Archives - ZO Magazine https://zomagazine.com/category/art-feature/ 32 32 65979187 Art and Social Therapy | Underground Interview with TIFFANY TALAVERA https://zomagazine.com/es-tiffany-talavera/ Mon, 03 Jan 2022 21:52:53 +0000 http://zomagazine.com/?p=22476 The post Art and Social Therapy | Underground Interview with TIFFANY TALAVERA appeared first on ZO Magazine.

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ERICCO STUDIO

. . . Creativity and LIFEstyle

Sol Poniente – Dugo

ERICCO STUDIOS has started a podcast series on art, life and the unique and invisible ties we all have through the “6 Degrees of Separation” syndrome we’ve been expounding on in this series as well as throughout the ZO community. This month’s podcast with Tiffany Talavera is one of those synchronous links that actually ties into one his clients that we featured in a previous design article . . .

Ericco:  Not long ago I was invited to stop by a local Art Exhibit in Thousand Oaks, California by an active and respected community arts leader, Len Linton, who is also on the board of the California Museum of Art Thousand Oaks.  Len and Judy Linton have been long time clients and we’ve grown close on a personal level.  So upon Len’s suggestion, I went to the CMATO Exhibit, and absolutely, wasn’t disappointed!

Ericco Studio mural at the Linton home

Len’s suggested exhibit was held in an intimate space.  The walls were filled with captivating works by accomplished visionary artists —  curated by Museum Director, Tish Greenwood.

For anyone who’s been to various art exhibits, you probably know, there must be something to engage and link you once you’re in the imaginary worlds that artists create; and for this event that link became Tiffany. She was in attendance with respect to her working affiliation at the Getty.  Her friendly, soft-spoken demeanor, effervescent personality, and comprehensive knowledge of art and the art world was quite fascinating and made it easy for me to stay awhile, comfortably hang out and talk. Upon leaving she and I exchanged info, and remained in touch, mostly through everyone’s new gathering place — social media.

Gudetama, Day at the Getty — © Tiffany Talavera

The Gudetama piece above really delighted everyone at the magazine! Now they all want one – lol

Tiffany: “Gudetama, Day at the Getty” is about a fictional character visiting the Getty for the first time, but behind the scenes as a staff member. I started this in November 2019 roaming with the figure until Co-vid shutdown. So I was only able to visit a third of the places I wanted to go.  I am hoping to explore more next year and complete this project. I wanted to make it a book, but it has turned into a storyboard for now.

I love Sanrio since my childhood, so this latest little character is just a way to celebrate where I work with a personal love of collecting a narrative of small things. It is done with respect for Sanrio and exploration.

Gude gets a cookie
We get some yummy snacks

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Everybody has fun at the Party!

Ericco:  After our initial meeting at the Exhibit, I became more acquainted with Tiffany’s many talents as we shared our creative exploits. So, when I needed a  formal written introduction to accompany a few of my art pieces to a client in Puerto Rico, I didn’t hesitate to ask her.

The Puerto Rico connection was through another 6-degree relationship, and it seems to continually guide and open the most wonderful doors.  Even in the midst of everything now going on in this “NOT business as usual world scene” – I’ve still been able to move forward, and even find new meaning in things I’ve often overlooked. The complex connections and intricate relationships that sometimes seem random have now taken on a deeper twist and more than ever, the role art can play in connecting us all is so very apparent.

Ericco Studio Puerto Rico Project

Tiffany: I started Needle felt (below) in April and this is my 4th creation started in July. It’s called “Yes Miss Potter” – Inspired by a conversation in my head between Beatrix Potter and Peter Rabbit.

Podcast with Tiffany Talavera, Getty Associate – Getty Museum Virtual Tour

Enjoy More from ERICCO STUDIO on ZO

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]]> 22476 ERICCO STUDIO — ON ZO https://zomagazine.com/ericcostudio/ Mon, 31 Aug 2020 23:24:03 +0000 http://zomagazine.com/?p=14497 The post ERICCO STUDIO — ON ZO appeared first on ZO Magazine.

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. . . Creativity and LIFEstyle

Sol Poniente – Dugo

ERICCO STUDIO has worked with ZO since before its current incarnation and curated our first Art Soirée. We’ve been supportive partners and avid fans of each other’s work from the beginning . . .

ERICCO STUDIO ARTICLES on ZO

ERICCO STUDIO developed a 17,000 sq. ft. artists’ building near the Los Angeles International Airport — CAb — for several years and sponsored ZO Magazine’s creative space there. In addition to supporting our ongoing film project and collaborating on a project for young artists, we were privileged to be a part of the unique artists’ gatherings featuring fashion, food, and the friendliest people we’ve ever met. We learned so much through that experience.

Starting in 2020, ZO collaborated with Ericco Studio to craft a private gallery and event space. The space is magical and has been growing steadily even amid the incredible circumstances now facing all of us as a result of the worldwide pandemic.

The Skin You're In © Ericco

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ERICCO STUDIO: Developer — Art Spaces: CAb (Crenshaw Artists Building)

ERICCO STUDIO on VIMEO

ERICCO STUDIO: Stylist — Art Direction: THE NARROWCAST/Music Video

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]]> 14497 Ericco Studio — 6° degrees of separation: Including an Interview with SHY CARTER https://zomagazine.com/shy-carter/ Sun, 21 Jun 2020 13:50:47 +0000 http://zomagazine.com/?p=11391 The post Ericco Studio — 6° degrees of separation: Including an Interview with SHY CARTER appeared first on ZO Magazine.

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Above: Shy Carter | Photo by Greg Noire

ERICCO STUDIO

. . . the intersections of ART always have a 6 Degree Ripple Effect

One of the greatest  gifts in my life has been my work as an artist. When I can successfully  mirror to a client, the God given talents I’ve received . . . the creative journey’s end product is as fulfilling for me as it is for my clients; and if I’m lucky, I get a chance to see the benefit of what’s been created overflow into their lifestyles — and even further — to those around them and beyond.

Ericco Studio — illustration featuring Shy Carter

Shy Carter — “Good Love” out now — Warner Music Nashville

Kane Brown — “Worldwide Beautiful” — Warner Music Nashville
(music collaboration with Shy Carter)

While  doing a faux finishing project  in Studio City, at the home of award-winning music writer and artist, Lauren Christy (another design story :-)), I crossed paths with Shy Carter. He was collaborating with Lauren on some of her music projects.  She introduced us, and it was an immediate click!

Every  client has a recognizable gift or talent. Its cliche ” ish” . . . but they love what they do, as do I — and this is where I start the creative ideas and bond. I can’t help but to view them as both Artist and “Life Architects” of their homes, careers and businesses. The stories and journeys they share are always the backdrop and inspiration for the designs that flow into my art for them, which in turn touches their life architecture.

These connections and developments are something I’ve pondered for years, and this article with Shy is a beginning way to share my thoughts on our artistic “6 degrees of separation.” The way we live always ripples into other lives, especially on a creative level . . .

After my initial introduction to Shy, and as we connected on a more personal level, I was truly inspired and blessed to be creatively drawn into the impromptu wedding arrangements for he and his soon to be wife, Jennifer. Lauren’s home became the destination and we had only one week to pull it all together between Christmas and January 1, with the wedding to be held on New Year’s Day!

Everyone pitched in and helped one another. It was a unique artistic gathering and one of the most beautiful weddings I’ve ever seen.

So much division is going on right now.  A strong common thread that links me and the client’s I work with has become increasingly evident to me.  These thoughts are very much connected to the work I did with the wedding and is something I think we can all relate too . . .  namely, the shared experiences of LOVE . . . right!

We are all affected and surrounded by the relationships in our lives. Those relationships create common emotions and experiences, be they friends or family.

  • Baby Shower Announcement - Original Art

  • Original Chairs - custom created for Impromptu Wedding

  • Finished Chairs - custom created for Impromptu Wedding

I did a quick sketch that was used for a cover invitation announcing the arrival of Jen &  Shy’s first born – baby boy!!!  It wasn’t much, just a quick little sketch, but made for a lasting precious moment. These moments are those we can all relate to.  With family and client relationships, often my smallest efforts have meant the most.

Another very strong observation I had when thinking about the shared common passions Shy and I have in common is – that of helping others.

Around this same time as the wedding, I was finishing up a faux finishing design project in a 7,500 sq. ft. luxury home in Granada Hills, CA. On my completion in showcasing the home, I was able to combine a fundraiser organized by Shy’s wife Jennifer, that focused on raising money to mentor young girls and also inner city youth.  The program mentored and instilled positive affirmations through a summer camp retreat. We all brought a widely diverse group together for a common cause. It was awesome and beautiful, and certainly rippled through all of our lives, including the youth it benefited.

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The “Party With a Purpose” was an opportunity to extend my creativity outside of the home and into LIFEstyles and helping others.

Noted artists from vastly different backgrounds came together to give of themselves and help others. Again, this is an example of the client relationship going deeper and extending out and deeply touching others.  Six degrees of Separation turning into a effective force to channel our common mindset of helping others.

Photo: Party With A Purpose collage. Shy Carter bottom right. What a cool afternoon! There’s nothing better than having fun and helping people at the same time.

The realities of living through a global pandemic, are causing most to stayclose to home. Small gatherings abound and so many businesses have simply had to stop. We’re all communicating more on social media, and talking more on our phones, rather than the quick texts we once relied on since we were so pressed for time.

It was just such a case recently, while I was doing a custom blue finish on a bedroom wall. Shy and I were catching up by phone and found that we were both working while social distancing, etc.  He was finishing up his new release in Nashville and I was working on a project in Hermosa Beach.  I showed him some of the project and commented that it would be a dope look on his new release and it was just that – an instant ripple reality!

Ericco Studio – Hermosa Beach Project

Here’s a photo of one of the walls I was working on.

Though this unique transitional time, I’ve realized how inter-connected and inter-affected we really are.

What happens to one populated group will have a ripple effect . . . which may come sooner or later to other groups, but it will have an effect. I can only do my part, and believe that enhancing the surroundings of others through creativity has a distinct effect all its own.  Art always creates a ripple because it is creation; and bringing imagination into reality is a force.

Many are still feeling the impact of being quarantined.  Everyone needs a little escape from that.

I found the song Shy did with Kane Brown recently did just that for me.  Shy and Kane, both from bi-racial parents, found commonality in their backgrounds, which resulted in a new song released under the Warner Bros. label.  Check it out above. It so strongly speaks to the times we’re living in.

We all enter our zone by doing what we love. Shy Carter’s zone is doing what he does best . . . Entertaining!

Custom T-Shirt for Shy Carter by Ericco Studio

Interview with Shy Carter

ERICCO STUDIO ON ZO

SkyeChristy the Band — Interview with Ericco Studio
SkyeChristy the Band — Interview with Ericco Studio
SkyeChristy the Band . . . catching up with SkyeChristy at my Hermosa project — a fun day at the [...]
ERICCO STUDIO — ARTFUL Lifestyle
ERICCO STUDIO — ARTFUL Lifestyle
ERICCO STUDIO . . . ARTFUL LIFEstyle — My Hermosa Beach Project http://zomagazine.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/05/Kenneth-Hope-Blue-Planet.mp3 Blue Planet — Kenneth Hope Creating ambiance [...]

ERICCO STUDIO: Developer — Art Spaces: CAb (Crenshaw Artists Building)

ERICCO STUDIO on VIMEO

ERICCO STUDIO: Stylist — Art Direction: THE NARROWCAST/MUSIC ViDEO

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]]> 11391 ERICCO STUDIO — ARTFUL Lifestyle https://zomagazine.com/ericcostudio-hermosa-beach/ Tue, 26 May 2020 21:48:50 +0000 http://zomagazine.com/?p=10549 The post ERICCO STUDIO — ARTFUL Lifestyle appeared first on ZO Magazine.

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ERICCO STUDIO

. . . ARTFUL LIFEstyle — My Hermosa Beach Project

Blue Planet — Kenneth Hope

Creating ambiance through artistic interior – exterior space and custom wall-finish treatments, is a defining hallmark of my career. Visual enhancement is one goal, but the true uniqueness comes in creating an extension of a client’s distinct and exclusive lifestyle.

… art for LIFEstyles is not only my work, but my passion.

The intersection of art, fashion, music and social interaction is trending like never before. Our circle of social gatherings is becoming smaller, and we stay in our homes – or the homes of those close to us more often. This offers a unique opportunity for us to step up our game in finding new ways to entertain our friends and family, and to reflect and share our LIFEstyles on a more personal and broader level.

That’s what I set out to accomplish in this Southern California, tri-level – 3,500 sq.ft. ($6M) Hermosa Beach home on the Strand.

The Calmness of the ocean, Serenity of the blue sky, the Sense of stability evoked by stone and marble, were all elements that, combined with the Client’s entrepreneurial spirit and passion for the arts, allowed me to successfully create a one-of-a-kind space that is a reflection of the heart of his unique LIFEstyle.

______________________________
Ericco

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THE STRAND — HERMOSA BEACH, CA

In addition to one of the most spectacular views in southern California, the house is now becoming an artwork in and of itself. The interior walls have become a flowing canvas, blending sea, clouds, sand, marble and textures that could possibly fool a few geologists 🙂

Ericco had to point out that one of the walls he had painted in the 1st floor bath was not stone.

Being the ZO investigators that we are, we then had to feel everything, and even then it was difficult to tell what was art and what was natural stone!

We’re going to start this tour on the main floor central core spiral staircase, and get Ericco to give us some insight to the process.  One word comes to mind, as the tour progresses and that’s . . . “Lit!”

Thanks also to Juli, currently working with Ericco Studio, for being our model.

____________________________
______________________
________________

ZO: So, it looks like the whole house has literally become your canvas.  How in the world do you plan for that?  Did the concept come all at once or do you start and see what develops?

ERICCO: First we decide on a Color Scheme . . .
each wall and room application, it’s color and the consideration of what is surrounding it, what furniture is surrounding it, and how it looks and coordinates with the whole environment.

ZO: The transformations that we see in these rooms are all as dramatic as night and day . . . Which room or wall did you start on and how do you make that choice, toss a coin 🙂 ?

ERICCO:  My client’s  take these decisions very seriously, as do I. The results of my art finishes, are not generally paint . . but materials, that unlike a painted wall that needs a fresh coat of paint every two years — in 10 years my finishes will look the same — or better.  Clients are generally making choices  that they plan on being as permanent as their LIFEstyles  — so it’s well planned.

ZO: Tell us about the living room and central stair transformation.

ERICCO: The client and I decided  to have the wall finish extend up the entire  stairway and wrap around  the upstairs as well, giving it overall a more expansive feel and immersive tranquility.

ZO: This open floor plan has become more than a great room. The transition from the beach to the living room, through the kitchen, and then into another front room entertainment – kind of begs the question, when is the party?

ERICCO:  lol . . . I’m working and looking forward to that too!! Actually, that’s something I did in the homeowner’s previous home — its 10 years later, and it’s still being talked about. LOL

ZO: Yeah, we were there — like we said, hope our invitation to this one is coming soon!  🙂

The old sliding doors. Wow, such drama now!

ZO: We really love the way the blue and white theme transcends through the entire house. It’s kind of like a continuation of the clouds.  This photo of the moon from the balcony is breathtaking.  Give us some of your thoughts on the cloud themes that seem to be such a part of your work.

Upstairs Cloud Room

ERICCO: This is basically a weekend  getaway  for my clent . . .  shades of blue have a calming effect. It also brings the extraordinary view in and extends and connects the interiors to the exterior panorama.

  • Ericco Studio - Hermosa Beach Project

Upstairs Powder Room (left)

ZO: We’ve seen variations of these interior murals in a few homes you’ve done.  The whimsy of this certainly adds a timeless feel to the bath. Renaissance architecture and styles were filled with this. What a thought provoking space.  Where does this inspiration come from?

ERICCO: I think this is an unexpected  surprise, and a source of uniqueness for visitors. Again, I like the guest to be entertained by the unexpected, and somehow inspired while in the home — but on a personal note. This was a personal request  by the homeowner. I did this same design (this time in blue) as a reminder of when the client made enough money to purchase his first mansion. I did this very same design in it, and he fell in love with it. Its a beautiful  reminder.

First Level Entertainment Room

ZO: Actually, this is my favorite room. What fun! I LOVE the depth . . . it takes me into the wall, kind of like a time portal – LOL

ERICCO: I especially enjoyed creating this wall finish in the entertainment room. The dimensional motif is hand-drawn and the painted design is intentionally meant to entertain visually, even when the TV is off and everyone is just chilling!

First Level Bathroom

ZO: You’ve done several large scale homes like this and projects in Puerto Rico since our last interview. We’re also very excited about the private gallery in NoHo we’re all working on to house some of your art collection and custom projects.  With all that’s affected the whole world this year, where do you see art going?

ERICCO: Art has always been a “personal thing” for me. Given our social environment and new realities, our creative NoHo space will cater to smaller groups and extend a more one-on-one experience — a more intimate, personal approach to an art encounter.

Don’t worry about a thing, ’cause every little thing gonna be all right. — Bob Marley

Ericco Studio has been a partner and advisor to ZO since its inception. We always enjoy the adventure of exploring the many creative spaces he creates magic for! We’re looking forward to updating this page as the work is completed. 

Thanks Ericco for treating us to a breathtakingly beautiful afternoon at the beach and for the pictures.  What a lovely day its been — ZO

ERICCO STUDIO: Developer — Art Spaces: CAb (Crenshaw Artists Building)

ERICCO STUDIO on VIMEO

ERICCO STUDIO: Stylist — Art Direction: THE NARROWCAST/MUSIC ViDEO

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]]> 10549 Frank Gonzales Soars to New Heights https://zomagazine.com/frank-gonzales-interview/ Mon, 20 May 2019 18:39:41 +0000 http://zomagazine.com/?p=5473 Every person under the sun has that one animal that speaks to them louder than others. For many, it’s cats. […]

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]]> Every person under the sun has that one animal that speaks to them louder than others. For many, it’s cats. For so many, it’s cats. Me? Rabbits and deer. For the incredibly talented artist Frank Gonzales it’s birds. Yes, those creatures of the sky found all around the globe in an array of sizes, shapes, and colors. Those are what drives Frank Gonzales’ art and what’s made it sought after. We talked about where the inspiration came from, sketchbooks, and what’s to come from him in the near future.

Kendra: Every artist has their thing and yours just happens to be birds. What first drew you towards these creatures of the sky? Were they something you were interested as a kid or was it an interest that came with time?

Frank Gonzales: It was definitely an interest that came in time. It was a result of a lot of playing and experimenting. Trying to find my own voice in my work. It was really general at first and became much more specific as my interest grew. Lately, botanical elements have been at the forefront and I’m much more selective with birds.

Kendra: You’ve said that you often look at pictures and do your interpretation. Do you ever take a sketchbook to the park or the woods?

Frank Gonzales: Oh, I’m always taking a sketchbook with me. I don’t work in it as much as I would like these days. I try to make it habitual to carry around, but truthfully the sessions are a bit farther and few between. Life can be a bit demanding with full-time work, studio time and family life. It’s not an excuse, but now that you asked the question I appreciate the reminder to work in it more. Haha!

Kendra: How do you feel that your way of approaching your subjects varies from those who sit at like the zoo and sketch animals?

Frank Gonzales: I appreciate both approaches. There’s nothing better than drawing from observation. However, working in the studio from references allows you to take more time to build up the subject.

Kendra: Was there any other route you wanted to travel besides art, or did you always have your heart and mind set on art school and being an artist?

Frank Gonzales: I was pretty set on art. I’m a big music head so maybe something involving music for sure. I also sometimes think I should go back to school for horticulture. I would love to have my own desert natural habitat on my property. That would be dope!

Kendra: I was so happy to see your art is at the Children’s Hospital in Orange County. As someone who has spent a lot of time in a hospital (not for me, but my fiance), the art does really lift the spirits. How’d that come about, getting your pieces in there?

Frank Gonzales: Oh man! I was happy as well! It’s quite an honor to have work in a place of healing and in an institute that does so much good for children. It was purely luck on my part. The person who manages the hospital’s collection reached out to me which made the experience much more spectacular!

Kendra: What are your plans as far as the rest of 2019 is concerned? Will you be doing any shows, showing in any new galleries? Let the people know what you have going on.

Frank Gonzales: I’m going to be in an upcoming group show by Hashimoto Contemporary from San Francisco hosted in Portland by Antler Gallery. I will also be including some works with Visions West Gallery in Montana. It’s amazing how opportunities pop up. That’s all I have scheduled at the moment. We’ll see how 2019 progresses!

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]]> 5473 VINN WONG https://zomagazine.com/vinnwong/ Wed, 24 Apr 2019 20:21:17 +0000 http://zomagazine.com/?p=4101 The post VINN WONG appeared first on ZO Magazine.

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“Colour is the core of our visual language” — Vinn Wong

“Moonlit Shore” — Brian Crain

VINN WONG

HAUNTED

Artists Statement

From About Page — Quiet Conversations — Vinn Wong:

Vinn started painting as a way to record his life in ways that words couldn’t. With a rocky childhood and also problems with self-acceptance, many deep emotions were bottled up and painting gave the artist a way to let it all out.

“It was like writing a diary knowing that nobody would be able to read your secrets, and it eventually became my one safe place to express my deepest insecurities and doubts.”

After years past by, Vinn’s art now always comes from a good place in his heart.

“It had helped me through the rough times and had given me a voice that comes from love and positivity. Painting has become a way for me to materialize verses of my life no matter good or bad into something beautiful.

“Surge” – © Vinn Wong
36.5x26x2cm Mixed Media on Wood Panel

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E-Interview by: WINNIE LUK

E-Interview by:
WINNIE LUK

1...How would you describe your style? How has your style evolved over time?

Timelessness — © Vinn Wong
73×51.5×2.5cm Mixed Media on Panel

Vinn: Abstract expressionism works are often distinguished for their impulsive traits. I was like that when I was younger. My works were gestural and full of impulses. Now however, my works are much more delicate, thought out, and meticulous. The way I like to paint requires much more patience. Each piece takes over a month to finish and I think this is majorly reflective of my maturity as a person.

2...What are you trying to communicate through your art?.

Utopia -Original Abstract — © Vinn Wong
73x103x3cm Mixed Media on Wood Panel

Vinn: My art always comes from a good place. I’d like to make people fall in love with colour by putting it front and center in my works. My works are also about discipline. Each piece requires meticulous blend work that is both time consuming and requires the utmost patience.

3...What is the one item you use in your work that you couldn’t do without?.

Vinn: I couldn’t go without my tissue paper for painting. I started painting with unconventional tools because I couldn’t afford a good brush. I was frustrated with how bristles kept coming off and so I started painting with other things. At first, it was a feather I picked off the road. Then it went on to spare sponges from my mother’s kitchen… even hammers…and now tissue paper.

I’ve been using them for so long that it has become a huge part of what I make. I’ve developed a touch and feel for them and now. The softness varies from type to type each giving a different look and I’ve been bringing colour to life with them ever since.

  • Distant Shores - © Vinn Wong

  • Enigma - © Vinn Wong

  • Haunted - © Vinn Wong

  • Healing Tide - © Vinn Wong

  • Timelessness - © Vinn Wong

Vinn Wong’s work can be viewed on the following sites:

vinnwong.com
Patreon

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]]> 4101 TIFFANIE MANG https://zomagazine.com/tiffaniemang/ Wed, 24 Apr 2019 01:02:55 +0000 http://zomagazine.com/?p=4061 The post TIFFANIE MANG appeared first on ZO Magazine.

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TIFFANIE MANG

“A Gentle Dissolve” — Thievery Corporation

Tiffanie is an illustrator and concept artist based in Los Angeles. A graduate from the University of Southern California with a BA in Animation and Digital Arts, her last job was working in Gdansk, Poland at Breakthru films as an animator on Loving Vincent, the world’s first fully hand painted feature film.

Now back in Los Angeles, Tiffanie works as a concept designer at BartKresa Studio, a leading 3-D projection mapping studio specializing in creating transformative experiences for shows all around the world. Always inspired by nature and the outdoors, Tiffanie’s main hobby and passion is plein air painting, which she also teaches classes for.

Painting above: Sunrise While Walking to Work © Tiffanie Mang

E-Interview by: WINNIE LUK

E-Interview by:
WINNIE LUK

1...From where do you draw inspiration? Is there a place you go to feel inspired? Who are some other artists, past or present, that you admire?

Tiffanie: I definitely draw inspiration from nature and architecture for my illustrations and plein air. I am always observing my surroundings, and often times when I get excited about certain lighting and colors at different times of a day, I build my story for an illustration around that. There is no set place I go to get inspired — I am always trying to find inspiration wherever I go.

There are so many artists who I admire and look up to. I love Sargeant, Sorolla, Schmidt, Monet, Turner, and Degas just to name a few. Contemporary artists that I look up to in animation and fine art are Pascal Campion, Mike Hernandez, Chris Appelhans, Tadahiro, Uesugi, Christophe Lautrette, Chien Chung Wei, Joseph Todorovitch, and Jeremy Lipking, Of course many more as well!

  • Air BnB View - © Tiffanie Mang

  • Aku Piece - © Tiffanie Mang

  • Carmel - © Tiffanie Mang

  • Elmat Noon - © Tiffanie Mang

  • Gdansk Clouds - © Tiffanie Mang

  • Newport Beach - © Tiffanie Mang

  • Sitting with Friends - © Tiffanie Mang

  • Us and the Moon - © Tiffanie Mang

  • © Tiffanie Mang

2. What is the greatest aspect of working as an artist?

You can create art ALL the time! There is no greater fun than that.

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3. What are you trying to communicate through your art?

© Tiffanie Mang

© Tiffanie Mang

I am always trying to tell a story that everyone can relate to in my art. If it is an illustration, I try to capture sweet, charming, or sentimental moments that I observed or felt, and create one image that tells a story with the composition, color, and lighting. With my plein airs, I always try to capture the atmosphere and lighting of the landscape in the brush strokes and color palette; I never try and replicate the colors that I see, but more like the colors I felt while observing the landscape and soaking in its beauty. I always try and experiment with different color harmonies to make colors vibrant against and sing with each other.

© Tiffanie Mang

© Tiffanie Mang

4. As an artist, what does “success” mean to you? “Creativity”?

Success to me is an ever-changing goal that I am always trying to reach as an artist. I believe that to be a successful artist, you should never consider yourself completely successful, but should always strive to push for something more. To attain success, I must push myself all the time to go out of my comfort zone. It does not necessarily mean just being “creative” when designing, but it is when I feel like I have put my soul and identity in the piece and have been true to the original concept I first brainstormed. When the emotion and message I am trying to convey is adherent in the brush strokes and color, that’s when I consider a piece a success.

5. What was it that made you decide to pursue art as a career?

I had been going to art classes since I was 6, so art was always in my life. However, I wasn’t sure I want to try and pursue art and animation as my career until I watched Avatar by Spielberg and was amazed at the visual effects of the film. While studying animation at the University of Southern California, I slowly discovered that my passion in the film industry was working as a visual development artist and brainstorming conceptual ideas during the early stages of creating a film.

During these last couple of years, I have gotten the privilege to study under various mentors who have helped me discover my passion for plein air painting and illustration even more. Now, I am currently working as a painter and animator on the film Loving Vincent with Breakthru films, where we are making the first fully hand painted feature film about the life of Van Gogh.

6. How would you describe your style? How has your style evolved over time?

© Tiffanie Mang

© Tiffanie Mang

I would describe my style as very loose, free, emotional, and organic. I used to love very detailed, intricate paintings but now I and attracted to pieces that carry the impression or essence of the subject. I am always inspired by color and light- I am constantly observing my surroundings and noticing how people interact, how the light is affecting the atmosphere, etc. My style is constantly evolving even though I don’t always notice it- I think as I technically improve in painting, I unexpectedly discover new fresh ways to put down brush strokes and experiment with different color palettes.

7. What are some of your favorite pieces, and why? Which is your most personal piece?

My favorite pieces are probably the ones that I resonated most with at the time I saw my inspiration. They are the ones that are not necessarily the most detailed or took longer to create- sometimes pieces that I whip out in an hour or two are the ones that I consider most successful. My favorite digital piece up to date is titled “An Artist’s’ Thoughts” (see slideshow below). It shows a girl sitting by a large window, notebook by her on the couch, gazing out through the rainy glass. I painted this one at a more darker time in my life, when I wasn’t sure what to do next and felt confused, but I felt something good was going to happen in the near future- I didn’t know what and when. I painted it spontaneously at a coffee shop, and was surprised at how many people connected with it, even though it wasn’t the most technically well executed piece.

8. What has been one of the most difficult aspects of working as an artist? What advice do you have for people experiencing similar difficulties?

Art is always difficult, and that is the beauty of it. The challenges one faces constantly trying to find his or her voice is what helps one grow stronger and squeeze the creativity juices. For me, one of the most difficult aspects is trying to find my personal style in my art after learning from so many amazing artists. Sometimes, my mind can be cramped when I like someone’s work too much, and I end up trying too hard to “copy” his or her style. In the end, the illustration turns out awful and I have spent more time trying to just be a replica of someone else. I have learned how valuable it is to take tips from people and soak in aspects of their work that I like, and then mold it into my own unique style.

In the working field, sometimes you cannot always paint in your style when the client is looking for something else. As an artist, one has to be flexible and adapt to many different styles. The more styles you can paint in, the more likely you are to be hired at different companies.

9. Where do you see yourself heading in the next 10 years?

That is a tricky question — right now I want to do so many things that I actually can’t quite decide. But I do know for sure that I want to work in the animation field for a bit more, teach classes in plein air painting, and eventually establish my own studio where I can create and art direct my own short or feature film.

  • Coffee Shop

  • Cloud Watching

  • An Artist's Thoughts

  • Lisbon

  • Morning Bookworm

  • Dogwalking

Trailer for Thralled (below) is an interactive experience that takes place in 1700’s Brazil and seeks to take the player on an allegorical and surreal journey of a runaway slave, Isaura, who searches for her baby son that was taken away from her.

More of Tiffanie’s work can be viewed at the following webpages:

TiffanieMang.Squarespace.com
Instagram
Facebook

All art on this page © Tiffanie Mang

*Please do not copy work from this website
and please do visit the artists’ pages for more info!

Tiffanie Mang is originally from San Diego, California. She is a graduate of USC with a major in Animation and Digital Arts.At the time of our first interview, her creative projects included working as Art Director and artist on Thralled, an award winning interactive experience on Mac, PC and Ouya — and an inspired stint working with Breakthru Films.

Update on her webpage: She’s a sucker for tiramisu, huskies, dark chocolate, croissants, and sunsets . . .

The post TIFFANIE MANG appeared first on ZO Magazine.

]]> 4061 Thierry Baptiste | Lenny White https://zomagazine.com/thierry-baptiste/ Tue, 23 Apr 2019 15:52:25 +0000 http://zomagazine.com/?p=4010 The post Thierry Baptiste | Lenny White appeared first on ZO Magazine.

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THIERRY BAPTISTE — LENNY WHITE

“You Can’t Stop Me” — Andy Mineo

Thierry Kojo Baptiste has been associated with ZO for many years. Thierry Baptiste or nothingHe is an outspoken, opinionated, wonderfully colorful, self-described “BEAST STYLIST!”

Baptiste is also a singer-songwriter — self-employed and “Loving It” at Broad Ripple BarberShop

We’re loving the art from Baptiste’s photo-filming of “The Storm” with photographer Lenny White. Lenny is currently associated with Pride Studios and studied at the Academy of Art College in San Francisco, CA. His present passions are for event and fashion photography — and as you see from “The Storm” — “drama!” 🙂

The Storm Concept:
…Loctician/Stylist — Thierry Baptiste | Fashion Designer — Nikki Blaine | Choreographer — Nick Owens
Photographer: Lenny White @ Pride Photography
Videographer: Sonny Bates

Style Team: Bankhead The Barber, Diauna Lovett, Zori Zanell, Heather No, Nakia Style
Bow ties: Hudson Bows
Models: Zenobia, Melody, Keyma, Cortez, Bankhead, Justin

.
.
*Please do not copy work from this website
and please do visit the artists’ pages for more info!

Thierry Baptiste with Vidal Sassoon

CREATIVITY CAN CHANGE THE WORLD!

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SPONSORS, CONTRIBUTORS, and ARTISTS
in all Creative Disciplines.

  • Thierry Baptiste | Lenny White - The Storm

Contact Thierry Baptiste, Lenny White and Style Team at the following links:

Thierry Baptiste — @thierrybaptiste
…THIERRY KOJO BAPTISTE LOC FAN PAGE
…THIERRY BAPTISTE — YOU TUBE

Lenny White —
…Facebook: Lenny_Pride Photography
…www.pridephotographyinc.com

Nikki Blaine — @nikkiblainecouture

Nick Owens — @naojoker

Hudson Bows — Twitter/Instagram: @hudsonbows

Kimmie Houchens — Instagram @nubiansoul75
…Facebook: Nubian Spheres
…Etsy: Nubian Soul

Get Baptized

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]]> 4010 THERESA DURANT https://zomagazine.com/theresa-durant/ Mon, 22 Apr 2019 22:43:07 +0000 http://zomagazine.com/?p=3964 The post THERESA DURANT appeared first on ZO Magazine.

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Photo above: “Imperfectly Perfect” © Theresa Durant

“Back To Eden” — Rutt

THERESA DURANT

Theresa

Theresa Durant’s most striking works deal with not only depth of feel – but depth of “heart” . . . the kind of heart that ponders creation and humanity. She often connects such thoughts with her postings . . . “As we grow up, we realize it becomes less important to have more friends and more important to have real ones.”

ZO is developing daily and we are all hoping to not just offer more artistic experiences but ones that will touch you and communicate something thought-provoking, inspiring and real . . . enjoy!

CREATIVITY CAN CHANGE THE WORLD!

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  • © Theresa Durant

  • © Theresa Durant

  • © Theresa Durant

  • © Theresa Durant

  • © Theresa Durant

  • © Theresa Durant

  • © Theresa Durant

  • © Theresa Durant

  • Photo: © Theresa Durant

  • © Theresa Durant

  • © Theresa Durant

  • © Theresa Durant

  • © Theresa Durant

  • © Theresa Durant

  • Photo: © Theresa Durant

  • © Theresa Durant

  • © Theresa Durant

  • © Theresa Durant

  • © Theresa Durant

  • Foggy Morning in Hanford - © Theresa Durant

More of Theresa’s work can be viewed at the following site:

Theresa Durant Photography

“When someone can make you see what once was your broken world as being beautiful, they are worth keeping around ~ To those special people I say thank you . . . I cherish you in my heart with great love . . .”

© Theresa Durant

The post THERESA DURANT appeared first on ZO Magazine.

]]> 3964 SŁAWA KŁADOCZNA-GRYTA https://zomagazine.com/slawa-kladoczna-gryta/ Mon, 22 Apr 2019 22:03:13 +0000 http://zomagazine.com/?p=3926 The post SŁAWA KŁADOCZNA-GRYTA appeared first on ZO Magazine.

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SŁAWA KŁADOCZNA-GRYTA

“Promise” — Drew Tretick

We at ZO were touched by the simple beauty of Sława expressing that she loves nothing more than to —

show ordinary things from an unusual (photographic) perspective.

“Everything has its own charm . . . its own claim to fame.” – Sława

Sława’s photography is a wonderful complement for a lot of the poetry and writing that we feature on ZO. We merged her work with an experimental writing piece we are developing by Zerr Her. The article is entitled: “POUNAMU | Rain and ART” We are terming this our PhiloDrama Series – and gearing the writing around the elements (wind, fire, rain and ice.)

Sława Kładoczna-Gryta

Sława Kładoczna-Gryta

 

Photo: © Sława Kładoczna-Gryta Photography — “Rain 4”

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  • © Sława Kładoczna-Gryta

  • Birth - © Sława Kładoczna-Gryta

  • Birth - © Sława Kładoczna-Gryta

  • Black Petal - © Sława Kładoczna-Gryta

  • Car - © Sława Kładoczna-Gryta

  • Cloud and Steel - © Sława Kładoczna-Gryta

  • Kinzo Lock - © Sława Kładoczna-Gryta

  • Landscape - © Sława Kładoczna-Gryta

  • Leaves - © Sława Kładoczna-Gryta

  • Leaves - © Sława Kładoczna-Gryta

  • Leaves - © Sława Kładoczna-Gryta

  • Life - © Sława Kładoczna-Gryta

  • Living - © Sława Kładoczna-Gryta

  • Minimal - © Sława Kładoczna-Gryta

  • Moon - © Sława Kładoczna-Gryta

  • Walks by Night - © Sława Kładoczna-Gryta

Contact Sława Kładoczna-Gryta at the following links:

SŁAWA KŁADOCZNA-GRYTA FOTOGRAFIA

Sława Kładoczna-Gryta Photography – Facebook

© Sława Kładoczna-Gryta – Little Emily 2

 

The post SŁAWA KŁADOCZNA-GRYTA appeared first on ZO Magazine.

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