BIO:
Born in Philadelphia, but raised in Fresno, Luke Chueh (pronounced CHU) studied graphic design at California Polytechnic State University, San Luis Obipso where he earned a BS in Art & Design (Graphic Design concentration). He was employed by the Ernie Ball Company, working in-house as designer/illustrator where he created several award winning designs and was featured in the design annuals of Communication Arts and Print Magazine. Meanwhile, he also created, produced, wrote, designed, edited and published “E.X.P.”, a ‘zine dedicated to the “Intelligent Dance Music (IDM)” genre.
In 2003, Chueh moved to Los Angeles to further pursue a career in design. However, a lack of employment opportunities left him resorting to painting as a way to keep busy (a hobby he picked up while attending Cal Poly). He got his start when the Los Angeles underground art show, Cannibal Flower, invited him to show at their monthly events. Since then Chueh has quickly worked his way up the ranks of the LA art scene, establishing himself as an artist not to be ignored. Employing minimal color schemes, simple animal characters, and a seemingly endless list of ill-fated situations, Chueh stylistically balances cute with brute, walking the fine line between comedy and tragedy. Chueh’s work has been featured in galleries around the world, and some of his paitnings have also been reinterpreted into vinyl toys.
INTERVIEW:
When did you know that you wanted art to be your career?
I guess I’ve I first recognized my affinity to visual communication when I was 5 years old. Between age 5 and 18, I always knew I wanted to pursue a career in visual communications, whether it becoming a comic artist, illustrator, studio artist, etc. By the time I graduated high school, I settled on being a graphic designer. Graphic design seemed to be the safest option I had, career-wise, and it’s a decision I’ll never regret making. When I moved to Los Angeles, the graphic design well was dry, but I was introduced to the Cannibal Flower art shows from my friends at Syndrome Studios. After getting my start their, I eventually moved my way up into actual galleries compliments of my website. Speaking of which, it was my background and education in design, that helped me build my website, along with all my promotional materials (postcards, shirts, advertisements, toy packaging etc.), which helped me get to where i am today.
As an artist and an art enthusiast, could you please tell WOOSAAH what in your opinion is currently “hot” in the underground L A art scene?
If anything, I’d say the street art scene is definitely “hot” right now, compliments of “Exit Through the Gift Shop”‘s inclusion to the academy awards.
“The Colour Wheel Of Doom” at first it sounds like something you would get if you crossed Queer Eye For The Straight Guy with The Lord Of The Rings. In reality what is this badass colour wheel of doom and how is it applicable to your work?
This question literally made me laugh out loud. Since I started painting, I’ve always employed my “Color Wheel of Doom”. The way it works is I’ve assigned some sort of psychosis or tragic situation to a color. For instance, blue is associated with depression / sadness, red to violence / blood lust, green to pestilence / greed, orange to psychosis / madness, white suggests sterility, black is associated with darkened, and yellow, grey, and purple are “wild colors”.
Best sushi restaurant in LA?
My friends Ritzy Periwinkle and Heidi Johnson introduced me Hama Sushi. It’s no nonsense sushi at it’s finest. And Amanda Visell & Michelle Valigura introduced me to Honda-Ya, my favorite spot for Izakaya (Japanese “bar food”)
Luke I understand that you are a comic book and anime fan as am I. How have these visual mediums inspired you?
The comic medium has always been inspiring to me. I’m not sure if I could say that manga/comic art has directly influenced my current painting style, but it was incredibly influential to my early work. I used to sketch character driven stuff that was obviously inspired by manga styling. Lots of “mechas” and girls with guns. Basically I wished I was Masamune Shirow.
Autobot or Decepticon?
Decepticon! Decepticon’s fly. Also, their logo rules!
Luke you use a lot of juxtaposition and contrast in your pieces. Could you please explain the creative reasoning for this and why does it appeal to you?
I’m a serious believer in the idea of visual and narrative contrast, and that sense of contrast is something I consciously employ in my work. Dark and light, happy and sad, cute and brute. I think when you combine these contrasting elements, you create something compelling or interesting, and so i almost always try to incorporate some opposing elements in my work.
How does Luke Chueh define success? And have you achieved it in your opinion?
Success is the act obtaining a goal wether it be through hard work and perseverance, or straight up dumb luck. Have I achieved success? I can definitely say I’ve achieved certain goals I’ve set out for myself, but I’m always adjusting my goals, trying to obtain the next accomplishment. Have I obtained success? Yes and no. I’m happy with what I have, but I’m always working toward achieving something “bigger”.
Based on your body of work thus far, I imagine that if your art was ever adapted into a Saturday morning cartoon it would be the Itchy & Scratchy Show…would I be right?
Hah! Sure. Or maybe something closer to “Plimptoons” (by Bill Plimpton).
I am a big fan of “low-brow” art, you have coined a new phrase for the genre of work which you produce and you have dubbed it “post-brow”. Please explain to my readers what post-brow is and how it differs from low-brow art in your opinion.
I see the “Lowbrow” genre of art as being broken into three different generations of artists. The first generation would include artists like The Pizz, Robert Williams, Van Arno, Anthony Ausgang, etc. The second generation would include Gary Baseman, Tim Biskup, Camille Rose Garcia, Shepard Fairey, etc. And the third will include me, Greg Simkins, Audrey Kawasaki, Lola, Joe Ledbetter, etc. Since the first generation coined the name (from Robert Williams book “The Lowbrow Art of Robert Williams), and this third generation came about several generations since the originals, “Postbrow” simply made sense to me. I don’t really use that name, but at the time, when I coined it, it made sense to me.
What are your thoughts on the vinyl or designer toy scene in North America? And how does it feel to be apart of that whole art explosion?
I love the vinyl designer toy scene. I remember scouring the Kid Robot back catalogs a long time ago dreaming of one day creating something worth producing. Los Angeles and the Internet have been great for me, and I feel blessed to be able to be an active part of the scene.
Top Three Manga must reads.
Akira (the Anime is great, but the Manga is GENIUS)
Naüsicaa and the Valley of Wind (see notes on Akira)
and Deathnote (again, amazing art art, and amazing story telling).
Also, though I don’t consider this manga, Scott Pilgrim (it makes me smile and cheers me up).
On top of all this, I’m also reading D.Grey Man, Negima!, Battle Angel Alita, Gantz, Deathnote, Berserk, Claymore, and I just started reading Bakuman.
Luke you painted a picture of yourself shackled to the head of a teddy bear. Are bears and bunnies still your ball and chain? How accurate a depiction of your feelings was that piece?
That self portrait was inspired by my sales from one of my shows. Several years ago, for one of my shows I created a painting called “Mer-made”. The painting featured a girl, sowing to her own body, a fish, making herself into a mermaid. The painting was attempting to communicate the idea of how we go through extreme lengths to become the things we want to be (or something like that). It was one painting from that show that didn’t feature one of my signature animal characters, and it was the one painting that didn’t sell.
After that experience, I humorously declared my bear was my “ball and chain”, and that I would create a painting about this.
The thing is, what is the proverbial “ball and chain”? It’s your husband, or wife. And like any relationship, I truly love the characters I’ve created. Sometimes I’m afraid that they do lock me down to one place, but most of the time, I love my creation.
There a many reasons you picked up a brush and took it to canvas. What would be a reason for you to put your brushes down for good and walk away from the canvas?
If paint, brush, and canvas became detrimental to my health, and the wellbeing of those I love, then sure, I’ll give it up. But for the time being, I simply can’t see a reason why I should stop doing what I’m doing. Painting is not only fun and financially rewarding, it’s honestly very therapeutic, and there’s a LOT I’ve been working out with the help of this medium.
What is the next step in the evolution of Luke Chueh?
Hmmmm… I’d love to explore other mediums, such as animation, film, etc. As far as painting, my latest show “Contemptorary Art” features my first foray into approaching the work through a “contemporary art” frame of mind. In other words, attempting more conceptual ideas as opposed to narrative ones.
I can’t speak for other fans of your work, but the reason I feel so connected to what you create is because of your subject matter. Teddy bears and bunnies are sometimes the very first voices children use to express themselves and their feelings. Are the animals in your paintings your voice and commentary on life? Do you think people are attracted to your work because you take these beloved icons of childhood and super impose very adult themes onto them, things that we all can relate to at some level? You make them feel emotion?
I definitely think that collision of cute cuddly character and dark nihilistic scenario creates paintings most people can relate to (to a certain degree). If there was an underlying theme that ties most of my work together, I think it’s “innocence lost”, and that’s something everyone can relate too.
Luke you are currently running a solo show at Corey Helford Gallery between Feb 12 2011 and Mar 12 2011. The show is entitled CONTEMPTORARY ART. Can you please explain to WOOSAAH the inspiration behind this particular show? What do you wish to convey to your audience?
Contemptorary Art explores my love/hate relationship with the Contemporary Art world. The show features four thematic collections:
THE LABEL SERIES
The Label series is a series inspired by the typographic stylings of Barbara Krueger. There are three paintings in the series: “Lowbrow”, “Pop Surreal”, and “Contemptorary”.
The complete name of each of these paintings is:
Label Series : Lowbrow (and Still the Loser)
The reason why the paintings say “(and Still the Loser)” is because the way I see it, it doesn’t matter what you call the work in this genre, the contemporary art world will never take it seriously.
COMMUNICATION SERIES
The Communication series features five paintings. Based around the image of my bears head, it is as though I’ve run the bear head through a series of filters, exploring the history of visual communication through my familiar character. The five genres of which I’ve explored are:
Original: The original version of the bear head is based on how I classically rendered my characters.
Renaissance: This is how I imagine an artist from that period would have rendered the head of my bear… Sort of.
Cubism/Modernism: This is how my bear would have been interpreted through cubist/modernist eyes
Halftone: With the development of mass communication, the halftone screen became an essential development in print communication. Pop artist Roy Lichtenstein is famous for employing such a filter in his work.
Pixel: With the advent of computer technology, Photoshop etc. The pixel is the latest incarnation in communication technology. Contemporary artist Chuck Close is one of the more famous artist who’ve employed the pixel into his very portraits.
COLORFIELD SERIES
The Colorfield series is inspired by the works of Mark Rothko and others. There are two paintings in this series. Those paintings are “Colorfield Series : Red” and “Colorfield Series : Blue”
The idea behind these paintings is the exploration and study of color on the human psyche. The Colorfield series features a small bear sitting in a field of color and textures. The “Red” version obviously being a field of red, and the “Blue” painting, a field of blue.
What I hope to extract from these paintings is two totally differ interpretations of what the audience interprets from the colors, though the images are essentially identical. From the blue, feelings of depression of forlorn. And from the red, the sensation of brooding, or quiet anger.
TEMPLATE SERIES
The idea behind the Template series is basically explores the idea of “it’s not the glass that tells the story, but rather what’s in the glass itself”. I’m creating 6 paintings based on a template image of the shape of my bear character. Each painting, despite being confined to the shape of my bear will explore widely different styles and emotions.
AUDIENCE PARTICIPATION TEMPLATE SERIES
To further elaborate on this idea of the “not the glass, but it’s contents” I’m opening the show up to audience participation. During the show we will have available to the audience a blank template for audiences to fill with their own ideas. We also put these images on display with the show.
What is currently on your IPOD?
I’ve been listening to lots of pod casts, like This American Life, and Radiolab. The new Mogwai and Radiohead albums. Some Muse, Coldplay, Beatles, Pink Floyd, DJ Shadow, Nine Inch Nails, and also, some old Laibach have been on heavy rotation.
How many sketch books do you own and where is your favourite place to sit and just draw?
I have a couple dozen sketchbooks from all the way back to my college days. And my favorite place to draw is usually in my room, on my bed, in front of my television.
Do you believe in the adage “What doesn’t kill you makes you stronger?” If so why?
Yes and no. I believe what doesn’t kill you makes you stronger, up till your in your late 30’s, at which point, that which doesn’t kill you will most likely leave irreparable damage.
In the past you have mentioned that you are a fan of the truly awesome and great artists Gary Baseman and Mark Ryden. If you were given the opportunity to ask each of them only one question what would it be?
Dear Gary and Mark – After listening to my theories and speculations concerning the art business and how I might fit in it particularly, is there any advice you’d care to share with me personally to help me make that next step up the ladder?
Artistically what would you like to do that you have not done yet?
I’ve got a lot of ideas planned for my future shows, all of which feature explorations outside of my recognized visual lexicon. I guess I’m basically saying that i have ideas and styles I’d like to explore, and I definitely have plans to do so.
In closing, Luke I would like to thank you so much for taking time out to conduct this interview with WOOSAAH. I adore your work and will remain a true fan always. I wish you much continued success in your life and career. I look forward to seeing more super sic work form Luke Chueh! Do you have anything you would like to leave as a last comment to the readers of WOOSAAH?
Thanks you for the delightful interview, and thank you for the support. Keep up the great work!
BIO:
Frank Kozik was born in Madrid, Spain in 1962. At the age of 14, he moved to the United States and settled in Austin Texas.
Credited with single handedly reviving the “lost” art of the concert poster, Frank’s creative career grew largely out of his enthusiasm for Austin’s growing underground rock scene in the mid-eighties. Starting with black and white flyers for friends bands posted on telephone polls, his reputation grew as an artist who’s work was graphically compelling as well as culturally gripping. With hundreds of full-color, limited edition, silk screened posters under his belt for such renowned artists as Nirvana, Pearl Jam, The Red Hot Chili Peppers and The Beastie Boys, he has also been the subject of many magazine articles such as Newsweek, Rolling Stone, Spin, and Details.
Not limited to the rock world, Frank has also done work for Nike, BASF, Slim Jim and MTV. His newest venture, fkozik.com, is an interactive site dedicated to creating a place for fans to go as well as purchase his art, both of which are firmly dedicated to producing the ultimate in collectible show posters and prints.
INTERVIEW:
Frank, I have loved your work from the gig art days right on up to your current days in vinyl. When I first found out that you were an avid toy collector, as I am I was so super stoked. So in your opinion, what is it about toys which make us collector’s go metal for them?
Well..they are sort of perfect. Cool to look at, you can touch them, you can put them anywhere..much more fun than a drawing or a painting.
Can you describe the feeling you had the first time you ever saw a vinyl toy?
‘what the hell is that I WANT IT”
What makes Frank Kozik want to get up in the morning?
Fear and greed…oh and having to pee.
I’ve heard that you are really into political pop art pieces, especially the busts. What is it about those particular pieces that get you jazzed up?
I love political art and really tacky social realism art…so this is my version of that.
What artists are you currently into?
Lately I have been really fascinated with 1960’s and 1970’s logos and lettering on commercial vehicles and race cars.
In my mind there is something seriously cool about the concept that a “toy” can be a 3 dimensional piece of art. However, there are some out there which say that “designer or
vinyl toys” are not art, simply a fad. What are your thoughts on this?
Not a fad..I think it’s a very new interesting form of pop art. And its here to stay.
How many toys do you have in your own personal collection?
Maybe 1000
What can we expect from Mr. Frank Kozik in 2011?
More of everything basically..new political busts, more cute stuff.
Frank, when I look at your work past and present, I see a lot of dark humour in it. Is that intentional just to fuck with people (lol) or is it just you being you?
That’s me making myself laugh alittle.
What one toy do you currently NOT have that you MUST have?
One of the 3 foot tall Playge Squadts at the rotofugi gallery in Chicago.
Can you name one positive thing about being an artist and one negative thing about being an artist?
Positive: no boss, work when you feel like it.
Negative: shit costs money so you have to work all the time.
Frank, you once stated that you were sick and tired of the music scene, and it began to get old for you so you decided to get out. Do you believe you will ever get tired of the toy scene?
Not really, as it is totally different and basically just involves internal fantasies and not rooms full of people.
Frank you are always on the Kidrobot boards interacting with fans and fellow collectors, which I think is fucking wicked, seriously. Some artists out there today are “too busy”
to make the time for their fan base, which I think is pretty sad. Why do you believe fan interaction is important?
It only seems fair. I haven’t been on the forums much lately, but still answer all meassgaes and emails, and always will.
There is a false stigma about being an artist, which is still prevalent today. Society will have you believe that in order to be considered a true artist you must live in poverty in a
hovel somewhere. They would have you believe if you take money for you art you are a “sell out.” What are your thoughts on this?
I used to be broke. It sucked, having money is much more fun.
One of your more prolific pieces and one of my favourites is the bust you did of Mao with the Mickey Mouse ears. I think it’s quite tongue and cheek. Can you share the thought process behind it?
Well…all the toys: Made In China..so..
Any final thoughts, do you have any upcoming events or shows which you would like to plug?
Comiccon in San Diego in July 2011….will be there all 5 days!
Thanks Frank, it was really great to have the opportunity to speak with you. I wish you much continued success and have fun at Comiccon.
BIO:
About TerryTerry Moore writes, draws and publishes comic books through his own imprint, Abstract Studio. His first series, Strangers In Paradise, was a 107-issue epic that ran from 1993-2007. Beginning in 2008, Terry launched his current series, Echo, a sci-fi series about atomic power and two women who share the same body. Terry has also worked for Marvel, DC, Dark Horse, Image and others. His work has won many awards, including the Will Eisner and Harvey Awards. Abstract Studio business and travel is managed by Terry’s wife and partner, Robyn.
INTERVIEW:
The series Strangers In Paradise continues to grow in it’s popularity even though the series has been finished for some time now. Why do you feel the story has such staying power and an expanding fan base?
TM: The story is about our internal lives, things we all have in common. That’s what I was going for. The sequence of events was always secondary to how the characters reacted.
Terry, SIP is one of my most favourite comics EVER! The story has a distinct voice, which is different and unique. As a reader you are able to identify with the characters. Where did the idea come from to write this fantastic series?
TM: Well, it’s a different time now, so it may not sound like much, but in the years before SiP, women in American were angry, fighting for their rights in society. Yet , they were still so easily hurt and vunerable to the people in their lives. Sound like any characters you know? That’s the short answer. The complete answer is so long I wrote a book about it, The Strangers In Paradise Treasury. It explains the development of the SiP characters through comic strips over several years leading up to the comic book.
I am a big supporter of the independent book scene in general. I feel that the best stuff out there is contained on the pages of indie books/comics, and if they were no more the literary world would be a pretty boring place. What is your opinion of the current indie comic book scene?
TM: It’s still there, it’s still crucial, and it’s just as good as it ever was. Sadly, there is no more sense of cohesion or movement with it in comics. The public attention has moved away to other things. But the world keeps producing talent, whether we pay attention or not. The mainstream readers are missing out on some wonderful stories.
Terry, what are the pros and cons to writing an indie or creator owned comic?
TM: It’s freedom versus obscurity. Which one do you want? Achieving the best of both is like winning the lottery.
Could you please tell us a little about your creative process?
TM: It’s a lifestyle. I live for the story I’m working on and lose sleep over the next one. My wife is totally in sync with my lifestyle, which makes it possible, God bless her. But everything I see, hear or do goes through a filter of “can I use this in a story?”. I don’t have set hours, I just do my thing all day every day into the night. I’ve found most working writers and artists are the same.
The Lesbian/ Bi-sexual community has effectively adopted you as one of their own. As a straight male, how are you able to capture the voice of females so accurately, and sincerely?
TM: It’s a complex answer. Age and maturity has a lot to do with it. Losing my looks in my 20’s and becoming socially invisible played a big role, compelling me to spend the rest of my life wondering about social interaction, what women want and what makes them visible or invisible. It’s all very psychoanalytical, I’m sure. Thank God I’m a writer and can put this stuff to good use.
Regardless of your indie work or your gigs with major publishers like Marvel and DC. Strong female characters are a staple in your writing which is something you unfortunately don’t see enough of in the comic world. Are there any women in particular who have inspired you the most?
TM: I like strong, but flawed women who keep trying. That sounds familiar, right? But that list would be anybody from Eleanor Roosevelt to Natalie Wood to Kim Deal. I mean, all three are on that list, but that just shows you how wide my world is. I never run out of inspiration.
What are some of the new and exciting projects you are currently working on?
TM: Echo has 2 issues left. Big finish. After that I will publish a How To Draw book, one chapter at a time in comic book format. When there are enough chapters I will collect it into a book. In June I will launch my third series—not yet announced. Also, I’m working now as an guest artist on a book by one of the big two. Can say who or what yet because they haven’t said anything publicly—have to wait my turn!
Female fans rave about your work and the ability you possess to give characters real voices. What do male readers take away from your work?
TM: Pretty pictures? No, seriously, I have an equal number of men and women readers, I think. I get the same feedback from both, so give men their chops. Most men are very sympathetic to women and would make excellent companions, despite what the news and television portray.
What is a typical day in the life of Terry Moore?
TM: Alarm clock, cereal, email, script, drawing board, lunch, drawing board, music, Coke Zero, 4PM snack, draw-erase-draw-erase endlessly, smell dinner! Eat, draw, kiss wife goodnight, draw, stretch, scan, clean in photoshop, play guitar, go to bed. Repeat every day for years and years.
Independent comics provide diversity in content, creators, and readership. Do you feel diversity is lacking in main stream comic books? And if so why?
TM: I don’t want to publicly criticise. It doesn’t help. I just, when I see something I like, I encourage that. Hopefully, the dynamics of how we move as a mass will bring it all back to something good. We, the comic book industry, are a little scattered right now because we’re losing our old touchy-feely relationship with the audience as they dissipate behind digital screens. It’s an evolutionary time in that we’re watching the death of one system and the birth of another. If mainstream isn’t diverse enough, they’ll know it soon enough and adapt or die.
Terry you have been interviewed by many people over the course of your career. What is the one question you hate being asked?
TM: “Where did you get the idea for Strangers In Paradise?” But I understand. Life is a never ending stream of newcomers asking “What’s all this? What’s going on?” It’s all good.
Can you share with the readers something about yourself that the general public doesn’t know about you?
TM: I drove race cars for three years in the SCCA. I’m an excellent driver, very fast.
Terry would you please give the readers out there who are unfamiliar with your book Echo a little introduction to what the story is about?
TM: It’s about a woman who invents an atomic alloy, who is then killed in the opening pages of the book and comes back to life inside another woman. Hence the title. The two women go after the killer, but they also must stop a super-collider from testing the woman’s alloy, because if it does, it will destroy the world. I haven’t read the ending yet, but I’m betting they don’t make it.
Terry I have a 4yr old son who is completely nutso over superheroes. I find that most young boys are attracted to comics and it is usually a great gateway into the world of reading for them, at least that’s what I’ve personally discovered with my son. Do you have any advice for parents out there who are under the impression that comic books are paper junk? What title recommendations would you suggest that may help to change their opinion?
TM: Comics led me into reading at an early age, and I’ve heard the same from many male readers. It worked for my son, too. When he was 5 or so I took him to a comic store to see the comics about his Saturday morning cartoons, and that’s when I first saw the indy comics that inspired me to make SiP. Now my son is a grown man with an English degree, so I think that worked out well for both of us.
My suggestion is to let the child pick out books about cartoons he already likes. Then one thing leads to another. Bone is in all the schools now, so they may know that one already. My highest recommendations also for Amelia Rules and Mouse Guard, just to name two.
Terry, as you know I am a huge fan of your work and so it was an absolute delight for me to speak with you. I would like to take this opportunity to thank you for making some time in your busy schedule for WOOSAAH. I wish you much continued success in the future and in closing is there anything you would like to say?
TM: Thank you, Elle. Just, keep reading comics and I’ll keep making them!
BIO:
Amanda Visell’s fine art career sprouted from continuing failure. A high school drop out and Cal Arts reject, she moved to Los Angeles to pursue a career in traditional animation eventually finding her way to stop motion animation as a designer and sculptor, working on stylized projects for shows like The Simpsons and the feature film Elf. The challenge of mastering new tools and techniques in this medium taught her to be able to visualize her own style. She has been exhibiting her paintings and sculptures internationally since 2005 including Disneyland USA and has created a thriving world of characters as designer toys.
INTERVIEW:
On your blog it would appear that your artistic career seemingly sprouted from “failure.” Could you please explain to the readers of WOOSAAH how you were able to take a perceived failure and turn it into such wonderful success? What is your secret recipe?
On success? I dunno I guess I think that’s imaginary. I work hard, and I work hard to be able to work hard.
What or Whom inspires you as an artist?
Lotsa stuff, currently japanese/swedish design combos, pastries, wallpaper.
Amanda what is your opinion on the current vinyl toy scene? Which artist’s work resonates with you?
I think I have an f*ing huge Bwana Spoons collection. If he was in Tiger Beat I would have a poster of him.
Are vinyl toys/designer toys art or toys?
Yes.
Amanda I am a huge fan of your “Girls” posters, especially the one featuring a young girl dressed as a Knight riding a steed. The main caption reads “I CAN SAVE MYSELF” strong words indeed. Where did the idea for this super rad concept originate? And why do you believe it’s such an important message to send to females of all ages?
I feel shitty about just making art that just appeals to me. Im trying to use what little voice I have to make an impression, a positive one. I think it suits me to make posters instead of yelling at parents in grocery stores. Although I do that too.
Amanda, I have read that you are a bit of a “cheesehead” you know a person who loves her cheese. What are your top five favourtie cheeses?
Well, Im not a pro, but I can tell you some good cheese experiences. -hot goat cheese on a salad-halloumi-pretzels with hot cheese sauce in the mall. Shout out to south hill!-apple cheddar pie-sharp cold cheddar.
How did you get hooked up with Kidrobot?
I was working my usual corner, when I noticed this car kept driving by. Not unusual, but the car itself was flat white and smelled like plastic. They were just asking directions, but I made them pay my fee for the whole night. The rest is magic.
Amanda, what are some of the new and interesting projects you are currently working on?
topsy turvy croc, concrete multiplane sculptures.
Tell us about SWITCHEROO, who are they and how did it come about?
Switch and eroo are mortal enemies thrown together out of mutual hatred for being employed. Michelle and I have a similar story, only in ours she started as my boss.
What makes you happy?
Boy, million dollar question. The house from Parent Trap.
What makes you sad?
Uhhh, this question is kind of a downer.
Do you have a favourite piece of art which you have created? Do you have one that is near and dear to you?
Of my own, no. Michelle has made some ceramics that I take, like for real take, I love them.
Are you a collector of anything?
Dog bites, some toys, some art, pens out of ink, ex friends.
Amanda, I am so loving your “Never Smile At A Crocodile” piece! Mostly cause I really dig alligators and crocs, gecco’s and other weird animals. I really wanted to own that but the cash flow was low. On the Switcheroo site you dictated some very specific conditions to consider prior to purchase. I think it was a rather bold and cool idea. What was the reasoning behind it?
Can’t talk about this one.
When you actually have some time to yourself and your not working, how does Amanda Visell like to spend her day?
I dont know but that would be an interesting day. Actually if I have an extended break (like a day) I tend to compulsively draw. Also tv. and google.
You’ve worked in various art mediums over the years, which one do you enjoy the most or are you the most comfortable working with?
Eh, I like being able to switch it up. Everything gets redundant.
What pisses you off?
That is a looong list. I really hate bad customer service.
Best gift anyone has ever given you ever?
Love.
If you were not an artist what profession could you see yourself in?
Well my actual jobs were projectionist, video store clerk, bouncer, hostess.
What piece of art, painting, sculpture, etc has made the biggest impact on you as a person?
I took a terrible class once on color theory, the teacher pointed out that everything man made has been touched by an artist.
Can you tell WOOSAAH about your artistic process?
I dont think there’s an equation. Then it’d be math.
Amanda I would like to take this opportunity to thank you very much for agreeing to conduct this interview with WOOSAAH, it has been my priviliage. You are an extremely talented artists and the first lady to represent on this zine, Woo-Hoo!? In closing do you have anything you would like to say?
mmmmmm. no.
Thanks!
Brilliant physicist roommates Leonard and Sheldon meet their new neighbor Penny, who begins showing them that as much as they know about science, they know little about actual living.
Big Bang Triva Question : What is Penny’s original hometown?
Answer: Omaha Nebraska
Comic Book Geek Triva: From the X-Men, who does Storm marry?
Answer: The Black Panther
MY LOVE FOR THE BIG BANG THEORY!
Posted on: January 25, 2011
So this section of my zine has nothing to do with art or toy culture directly, however has everything to do with pop culture and the current world we live in. In the category named “I Heart The Big Bang Theory” I will be posting episode guides and general news etc. This is my favourite show on television currently and I have been a loyal follower of it since the first pilot aired on September 24 2007. So if you are a fellow fan please check in and as always feel free to comment.
ELLE ROLLINZ
- In: Interviews
- 1 Comment
BIO:
Brent Engstrom is a Kansas native and has been drawing since the age of two or three. He grew up with a twin brother who is also an artist. Brent currently illustrates for Nickelodeon and Mad Kids Magazine, among other publications.
He is a Topps veteran artist and paints Wacky Packages, Hollywood Zombies and Garbage Pail Kids trading cards. Brent also commits to personal projects, such as his comic creation “Monkeyboy” and showing art in galleries.
Recently, he painted a vinyl toy for the Osaka Pop Star Devil Dog Art Show. He enjoys family life with his wife, Tracy, and one-year-old miniature schnauzer, Jackson.
INTERVIEW:
ER: Brent, you are best known for your amazing work on the Garbage Pail Kids and Wacky Packages series of trading cards. How did you get involved with Topps?
BE: I pretty much just sent Jeff Zapata my portfolio and said I was interested in painting GPKs. I painted a sample GPK painting and I got the job. My sample painting was of Armless Aaron. Leyon Dejarnette’s awesome painting ended up getting used, but my next two paintings made it into the set. Shortly after that I worked on a Lord of the Rings sketch card set and I’ve been drawing sketch cards for Topps ever since. It’s been fun working on a lot different movie franchises. One of my personal favorites is Star Wars. Shortly after I started painting GPKs, Zapata gave me the opportunity to paint a Wacky Package. It was titled Vulture Valley Gravola Bones (Fred Wheaton concept) and it ended up being used as a bonus card. That was for Series 5 and I didn’t work on them again until Series 7. I ended up painting 19 titles for that release. The Wacky Packages postcard series have been really fun to work on too. I recently finished up GPK Flash Back Series 2 and I look forward to future Wacky Packages and GPK sets!
ER: Do you collect anything and if so what?
BE: I collect comics and books. Mostly books about comics or artists I like. I really like underground comix, so I buy them up whenever I find them. I still buy a few new comics too. I collect strange old toys and little odds and ends. I’ve really tried to limit what I collect because it can consume your living space. Basically I collect small things. Also, I grew up collecting trading cards and now I’ve been getting back into that since I’ve started working on GPKs and Wacky Packs.
ER: I am a comic book fan so I’m always interested in anything related, and I noticed on your website, http://www.brentengstrom.com you have your own comic called Monkeyboy. Could you please tell us (WOOSAAH readers) who is Monkeyboy and what is his story?
BE: Monkeyboy is a character I created when I was a kid in high school. When I went to college, for two years I wrote and drew a daily “Monkeyboy” comic for the school newspaper. I learned a lot about inking and basic storytelling by having a comic to work on everyday. Since those days I’ve had a weekly Monkeyboy webcomic and he’s appeared in a few different publications, including Nickelodeon magazine and the pages of the Savage Dragon. Some day I’d love to publish a monthly Monkeyboy comic.
ER: Favorite Garbage Pail Kid of all time?
BE: I have a personal attachment to all the GPKs I’ve painted. If we go back to when I was a kid and collecting, I really liked Shrunken Ed. It was simple, just a shrunken head pinned up to the wall. It’s hard to pick a favorite though. It’s more about how they all made me feel. I sort of got the same feeling looking at old sideshow freak banners as a kid. They made me feel not quite right and sort of scared, but I knew I liked them a lot.
ER: Brent, what can fans expect from you this year? Is there anything you would like to share?
BE: I’m always thinking of new comics to submit to publishers, hopefully something will get picked up. I also have a daily webcomic that I hope to get back on track. It’s called “The RISE” and can be found at http://engstrom-rise.blogspot.com. I’ve been busy with other jobs and I’ve let it stay stagnant for awhile. Hopefully I’ll be working on a new Wacky Pack set this year. I think my next project will be Wacky Package Postcard Series 7. GPK Flash Back Series 2 will be out in February. I drew some sketch cards for Wacky Packages Old School Series 2 and Star Wars Galaxy 6. Another thing to look out for is an Italian comic called “PUCK!”. I’ll have some comic work in the next issue. Also an annual magazine called “Royal Flush” recently featured my comic work, so I hope to do more for them this year. I’m constantly updating my blog at http://monkeyboycomic.blogspot.com and I always post what I’m working on.
ER: I have been a fan of the sketch cards pretty much since they came out. It is pocket sized art which is new and innovative, that gets me excited. It seems that more and more people are taking the art of sketch cards seriously which is great. I’m lucky enough to own a “Swell Mel” which you did for me custom..yay, that I LOVE by the way! Why do you think sketch cards resonate so much with people, and do you see this particular form of art growing even more so?
BE: Sketch cards are still new and they have exceeded my expectations for sure. It’s kind of cool getting involved in something early on and I hope the future of sketch cards is bright. They seem to just keep getting bigger and bigger. There’s a thrill to finding them in a pack. Like stumbling upon and capturing Bigfoot. At least that is how I felt as a kid when I found a rare card. The last Wacky Packages set had sketch cards and they’ve really been popular among the fans, so they look like they are here to stay awhile. I’m glad you like your Swell Mel card by the way.
ER: Brent, as an artist, what would be your dream job?
BE: I’m pretty much doing it. The GPK and Wacky Pack work has been great. I also get to write and draw my own comics, so I’m really happy. Someday I hope to publish my own monthly comic book though.
ER: Which artists have influenced you the most through out your life or career?
BE: A lot of the underground guys like Robert Crumb and Jay Lynch influenced me greatly. GPK artists like John Pound and Tom Bunk have been a major influence on me the last few years of course. As a kid, superhero comics had a big influence on me. Jack Kirby was one of my favorites as a young kid and still is today. When I was 12 a new comic called “the Savage Dragon” came out and I loved it. It was great to be able to start from the beginning of a comic. Up until that point, comics seemed like they had been around forever. You’d buy a new issue of the Hulk or something and it would have # 234 written on it or something like that. I always felt sort of overwhelmed, like I would never have them all. So Erik Larsen was a huge influence. He writes and draws every issue. It just seemed like the best way to make comics. The fewer hands in the pot, the better the final comic turns out, in my opinion.
ER: Brent, you’ve published a book entitled “Spanning Time”. The cover of the book is pretty funny, on the cover you guys remind me of the Oakridge boys or something off a 1970’s album lol. Can you tell us a bit about how this book came about, and what inspired it?
BE: It started out of boredom. Me, my twin brother and a friend were living in a small town with hardly anything to do, so we decided to see who could grow the best beard. We started by shaving on the same day and then letting our beards grow for about 5 months. At the end, we got a family portrait to document it. It snowballed from there. That was about ten years ago and we still go and take pictures with different facial hair a few times a year. My wife is in a lot of the newer ones and she has taken it to the next level. She is un-bearded of coarse, but she adds an element of authenticity to the portraits. I guess that’s the whole point. To be able to walk into a portrait studio and look completely out of the ordinary, but have the person taking the picture assume that’s how you really live your life.
ER: What is the toughest part about being an artist?
BE: I wouldn’t say any of it’s that tough. Sometimes deadlines can be tight. I’ve had a lot of things that have to be done overnight, so I don’t sleep much during big projects. I’m just glad to be getting work!
ER: What is the most rewarding part about being an artist?
BE: I guess creating something from scratch and seeing it printed and sitting on a store shelf. MAD Magazine used to put out a magazine called MAD Kids. I was drawing a regular comic page for them for awhile. It was a character I created and I wrote and drew it. The character’s name was “Billy Blevins, Boy Inventor”. It was a dream come true to be working for MAD and with a character I made up. The magazine isn’t being printed anymore, but it was fun while it lasted.
ER: What is your favorite medium to use when you are creating?
BE: I really like drawing comics. My favorite way to ink them is with a little brush I dip in an ink well. It’s sort of an outdated way to draw, but I think it looks the best. I’ve really grown to love painting with acrylic paint too. I used to be sort of afraid of it, but with painting so many GPKs and Wacky Packs it’s become my chosen medium.
ER: Brent I know you enjoy working on comics, have you ever thought of doing a collaboration with anyone? Or developing anymore indie based projects and graphic novels?
BE: Yes, everyday! I have a new comic I’ve been developing recently. So far I’ve been drawing characters and thinking of the story line. It’s in the really early stages, so I can’t say much about it, other than I’m really excited about it. I’ve also been talking to one of my favorite comix artists Jay Lynch. He also works on GPK and Wacky Packs, so I’ve gotten to know him over the years. We’ve talked about collaborating in the future!
ER: I heard that you are an Erik Larsen fan, and you dig Savage Dragon. I too enjoy the work
of Mr. Larsen. What makes Savage Dragon a personal fav?
BE: I’ve mentioned the Savage Dragon earlier and my reasons for liking it. Heck, I still buy every issue that comes out. Erik Larsen was nice enough to let me draw 2 back-up stories for Savage Dragon issues 105 and 106. He even colored the pages. It was really amazing to have worked with him. I was able to use Monkeyboy in the story, so it was my first professional comic work and the first printed appearance of Monkeyboy!
ER: You have done some work on the DC Legacy and Marvel Masterpieces trading cards, and those cards are actually some of my son’s favorite trading cards. Do you have a superhero that you really enjoy drawing?
BE: When I was a kid the Marvel trading cards were some of my favorite cards to collect. It’s cool to draw any superhero from Marvel or DC, but my favorite would have to be the Hulk. I grew up loving that character.
ER: I read somewhere that you had pen in hand and have been drawing since you were a kid. I suppose one can assume that it was in your blood to develop a career in visual art. However, if you had not been able to become a professional artist, what do you think you may have chosen as a profession?
BE: It’s hard to say. Since I developed my drawing skills my whole life, my other job skills are pretty limited. I’d probably be working in a used book store or driving the Oscar Meyer Weiner mobile or something.
ER: Top five favorite songs?
BE: I don’t really have five favorite songs. I really enjoy rap music and I have some rappers I really like, but I can’t say a favorite song.
ER: In closing I would like to thank you Brent for taking time out to speak with me. I am totally a fan of your work and I wish you the best for the future and much success. Do you have any final thoughts or words you would like to share please feel free.
BE: Thanks for interviewing me. It’s been fun. One more thing. I have a piece in a group show at the Bear and Bird Boutique and Gallery. It’s for The Super Punch Tarot exhibition. It opens Saturday, March 5, 2011 and runs through April 23, 2011.
Brent Engstrom
http://www.brentengstrom.com
http://monkeyboycomic.blogspot.com
http://engstrom-rise.blogspot.com
A Suckadelic Interview With The Man, The Legend, The Artist, The Sucklord
Posted on: January 10, 2011
Gay Storm Trooper
Beyond all the self-generated hype around Suckadelic products, the Sucklord’s thoughtful and scathing social commentary and unassailable geek-cread all add up to the making of a legendary brand. I really dig bootleg toys, like the shit which comes out of Mexico or the Czech Republic, China. I think for me the main attraction is because those toys are imperfect and have flaws, and so do I. The flaws are what make the toys interesting.
and let the rebels hire me to some more dirt for them.
structure and requires sacrifice. I’m not sure everybody is suited to this lifestyle.
Smurfs
Spiderman and His Amazing Friends
Dungeons and Dragons
Pac-Man
Wacky Racers
Superfriends
Wheelie and the Chopper Bunch
Josie and the Pussycats in Outer Space
“CHEECH & CHONG” – BY SCOTT DERBY
Gallery 1988 has a new show running from January 7 2011-January 29 2011 “IS THIS THING ON?” dedicated to those celebrity crack ups we’ve all come to love over the year. This show’s subject matter is really interesting and definitely reflexs pop culture icons in comedic entertainment. If you are interested in finding out more about the show or purchasing prints please visit http://www.nineteeneightlyeight.com for more info.
“Down By The River” – Craig Parillo
woosaah 