EL TRAVO COLLABO 2011

Panel #1- Albert Ramos of San Francisco, CA

2011-08-03T11:25:00.000-07:00

Greetlings artlings.

I come to you bearing gifts of creativity and joy. Now bask in the glory of the first panel of the project! Yes, you heard me right, I actually have an update on the Panel #1 [aka S.L.U.G]! and it's bad ass! And honestly, I wouldn't expect anything less than badassery from an artist like Albert Ramos. This guy is probably the most talented and disciplined person I have ever met and I'm honored to call him a friend. He's from Barcelona, Spain and has been studying Fine Art at the Art Academy University and is currently pursuing his Masters while training to get into the best physical shape of his life. Oh and did I mention he kicks ass and takes names at various national art competitions? Excuse me while I go look at my own work and slit my wrists. No, but in all seriousness, Albert's hard work and talents are quite evident in his work. His work conveys a clear understanding for anatomy, dynamic symmetry and energy and his true dedication to the arts is evident in his intricate detail and pattern work. Albert is also known for spontaneously busting out into B-Boy break moves and toprocking mid-conversation. It's just fantastic, really.

Don't forget to check out his website so you can verify my words as TRUTH! Cliiiiiiiiiiick...HERE.

Hello, my name is Albert Ramos. I am from Barcelona, Spain but I currently live in San Francisco, CA. I draw and paint people, things, and sometimes, places.

What is your earliest artistic memory?

I remember drawing super heroes and monsters with my buddy Edgard after lunch break. Everybody thought we were weird.

What are three words that describe your artwork?

Frustration, pain, accomplishment

What inspires you?

Great painters, dead or alive, traditional or contemporary. Persian rugs, patterns, geometry. Science and philisophy. My students. Spain, my family, and especially the memories I have of them.

What is your goal in life?

To be a full time painter and make a conformable living with my art, without selling out, is probably the number one thing on my list. Also, I want to be able to snatch 165 pounds over my head, single handed. And ultimately, I just want to be a better Albert.

Name something you love and why.

I love strength and power training because deep in my heart I want to be a silver back gorilla.

What makes you angry?

Copy-cat painters, modern society, crowds, television, propaganda, politicians, hipsters, hippies, street art posers... and the list goes on, but let's not talk about hate and focus on the good stuff, right?

What was your favorite toy as a kid?

I loved knives, shurikens and my pair of nunchucks when I was a kid. Then one day puberty kicked in and I started loving spray cans more than anything else in the world.

What is your favorite toy now?

Olympic barbells

What is your dream art project?

I want to find my own voice, I want people to look at my paintings and say "This is an Albert Ramos painting."That is going to take a long time, yup.

What have you been listening to while you have been working on your art recently?

Recently, I prefer silence, if the studios around me are quiet. If there is noise around me and I need to isolate myself, I play random music from Zingaro to Elphomega. Anything goes, really.

If you were a cocktail on a drink menu at a bar, what would your name be?

It would be a mocktail [non-alcoholic cocktail], and I would be called "Raging Ramos"

If you could go back in time and talk to "8 year old YOU", what would you say to him?

I would warn myself about who to trust and who not to. I think I would even make a list and give it to myself.

If you could collaborate with any artist [living or dead], who would it be and why?

I would go back to the late 1800's/ early 1900's and collaborate with Gaudi, Fortuny and Casas. Kicking it at "Els Cuatre Gats" in Barcelona, sketching with the greatest.

What is the best advice you have ever been given?

I have been given plenty of advice throughout my life. Painting wise, the best advice I have ever been given is "The Subject of a painting will determine the way the painting should be painted" by Kevin Moore.

If you had a chance to say one sentence for the whole world to hear, what would you say?

Listen you fuckers, you screw heads. Here is a man who would not take it anymore. A man who stood up against the scum, the cunts, the dogs, the filth, the shit. Here is a man who stood up. I always wanted to say that like Travis did.

That's totally more than one sentence, Albert! But since it's Taxi Driver, I'll accept it. NICELY DONE MY FRIEND~ Gorgeous work on the panel and wonderful words of inspiration, I couldn't ask for anything more! Panel #1 crew is killing it right now and I can tell this piece is going to be insanely amazing by the time it's finished. and by the way, there's only one artist left on the bill for this one- Justin Delacuesta of Sacramento. He's another solid artist with great skills and I know he'll finish it off in style.

Go forth and spread the word of COLLABORATION my art lovers!

ELROD

Panel #8- Phillip Garza of Ontario, CA

2011-08-02T19:55:00.000-07:00

Gather 'round children, gather 'round! It's time to hear from our resident SoCal blogger, Ms. MellyMel Sanchez of LA [hoodeehoo]~

Hey Everyone!

You’re in for a treat with Panel # 8. Its made its way from the Bay to LA and back again! I have to say this panel has to be one of the most diverse group of artists to work together. I love how Elrod set that up!

Well, I’m excited to introduce you to one of the most talented people I know, Phillip Garza. I’ve known Phillip forever and always admired his mad skillz as an artist. As a youngin’ he started drawing portraits of artists such as Al Green from album covers. Into the 90’s he got into graff work and focused on tagging and airbrushing. That reminds me, I never did get my airbrush Tigger shirt. Back in the day he went by the name SOED, and still uses it as his mantra “start over each day”.

Lately, Phillip is focused on his creative roots of drawing portraits of people and realism with a 9b pencil on vellum Bristol. Check out some of Phillip’s work on his site here and appreciate the beautiful work he contributed to the project. Nice work SOED! -MellyMel

My name is Phillip "SOED" Garza, I am from Ontario, CA I.E reppin'.

What is your earliest artistic memory?

Trying to draw graff style pieces when I was 8. I used to carry around a shoebox with magic markers and paper.

What are three words that describe your artwork?

Honest, emotional, graff-fite

What inspires you?

Everything around me inspires me. my wife, my kids, my family, friends, assholes in line at the grocery store, everything. For my contribution I was inspired by all the people in the words that have to find the courage to face another day for whatever damn reason. If you go to school and there is a little dickhead that messes with you, you find the courage at the end of the day to say "you didn't get the best of me". To me, that person is rad or if you lost a loved one for whatever reason reason- death, divorce, incarceration- and you find the strength to hold on to everything because falling apart would be the easy thing to do. This piece was for every one on the grind and looking at a stack of late notices, for every single mother that makes sure her kid has twice the role model potential in herself to make up for what should have been a man. I did this for everyone that faces their struggle head on and says "What you got today fucker?".

What makes you angry?

Way too many things to list but my current list of things that anger me: People that drive and disregard the safety others from being drunk, texting or any other general jackassery. When you ask for extra ranch and they give you one. People who can't get past what was cool to them when they were 17...can't stand that shit. If hip hop is dead what are you doing to resurrect it? Sorry about that. Oh yeah, and I still can't find my iPod.

What was your favorite toy as a kid??

Star Wars Boba Fett.

What is your favorite toy now?

I'm not comfortable answering that. Next question.

What is your dream art project?

I usually react impulsively, so I am going to say a portrait if Einstein with a tattoo sleave of all of the characters from the Flinstone universe.

What have you been listening to while you've been working on your art [recently]?

My musical tastes vary. I was listening to Big Sandy, Vicki Tafoya, Errol Dunkley, Frankie Sugar Chile Robinson, Los Gatoe Locos, Downset and a lot of risque blues from the '40s and '50s.

If you were a cocktail on a menu at a bar, what would your name be?

I would be a glass cold and tall, filled with a drink called "Fukitol".

If you could go back in time and talk to 8 year old YOU, what would you say to him?

There are going to be a lot of people in your life, some of them good, a few of them not so good. Always try to be one of the good one in someone else's memories. Oh, and really does hurt later in life from popping your knuckles so please stop now.

If you could collaborate with any other artist [living or dead], who would it be and why?

I have so many people I look up to artistically, it would be hard to pick. For me, I would definitely say I would love to work with anyone that digs what I put out there and can vibe off of my interpretations. We can figure the rest out as we talk about the project.

What is the best bit of advice that you have ever been given?

Act as though you have some damned sense- My Mom

If you had one chance to say one sentence for the whole word to hear, what would you say?

If you are unhappy with something, in your life, fix it and when you order a burger at Tommy's, get the chili on the side [you get more so you can dip you fries without have to pay for the chili for the fries].

The panel has already made her great trip back home to the bay and is in the hands of the man, SAUNDERS HILDRETH. I anticipate great things from you, Panel #8. You will bring honor and glory to your family.

From the bay to the I.E- 402.1 miles

Good night and stay classy, San Diego.

ELROD

Panel #9- Emilio Villalba, San Francisco CA

2011-07-12T18:55:00.000-07:00

Hey there friends,

I must say, there are many things in this wonderful world that bring a smile to my face, but nothing makes this girl grin from ear to ear like a new panel on the collab! I am so pleased to present to you Panel #9! The artists on this bill are some of the most talented and hard-working heads on the project and I am honored to work with them all.

First up on Panel #9 is my very dear homie, Emilio Villalba [mijo!]. I've known Emilio for a few years now and watched his artistic style go from digital, to

abstract, to traditional and all the way to his very own unique style that I have come to love. His current work pulls from traditional dynamic symmetry with a fresh contemporary feel. If you check out his website, you'll see a nice variety of his skills- Check it out, it's some GREAT stuff- http://emiliovillalba.wordpress.com/

My name is Emilio Villalba and I am from Southern California [currently living in San Francisco] and I am a student.

What is your earliest artistic memory?

In 3rd grade I drew a tiger and won an award.

What are three words that describe your art work?

Spirit, Body & Mind

What inspires you?

Energy!

What is your goal in life?

To maintain energy

Name something you love and why.

Music is a thing, right? Maybe it a dependency issue i have with music. I grew up with music and I wouldn't go a day without it.

What makes you angry?

Los Lakers not making it this year!

What was yoru favorite toy as a kid?

My nintendo and Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtle action figure collection

What is your favorite toy now?

My 1994 Cavalier!

What is your "dream" art project?

Working with Kieran Collins. STREET ART coming soon...

What have you been listening to while you've been working on your art [recently]?

Panda Bear's latest album

If you were a cocktail on a menu at a bar, what would your name be?

Don't know... would I be gluten free?

If you could go back in time and talk to "8 year old YOU", what would you say to her/him?

Chancho....when you are a man, sometimes you wear stretchy pants, in your room...is for fun.

If you could collaborate with any artist [living or dead], who would it be and why?

Lou Reed, He's the coolest.

What is the best advise you have ever been given?

"You've got to be environmentally friendly"- Kieran Collins [yesterday]

If you had a chance to say one sentence for the whole world to hear, what would you say?

"Everything is connected and everything matters... now isn't that cool?" - I Heart Huckabees

Now that you've gotten to now Emilio and his art, drop him a line in the comments and show him some love! He's on the fast track to successes in the art world and I have no doubt we will see more great things from this guy. Thank you so much for your time and for sharing your talents with us, the world is a more symmetrical place because of you.

NEXT on the list for Panel #9 is making me so excited, I can hardly contain myself- REKALone of the Seventh Letter Crew is gonna lay down some fresh work on the panel down in good ol' LOS ANGELES, baby! Holy hell, you better be excited too!

Spread the word! Spread the love! Spread the ART!

ELROD

And the Winner Is....

2011-06-28T07:27:00.000-07:00

HEEEEEY LAAAAADIES!

The vivacious ladies of Panel #5 have done it! With their skills and charm combined, they managed to OUT-collaborate the boys in a furious battle of the sexes and I have to say, this battle was a close one. Big ups to Jen Oaks, Janelle Cuba, Erin Hamilton and Corrin Duran, you ladies are amazing and your panel is one serious work of art.

Honorable mention to the Boys- Ed He, Oscar Padilla, Eddie Schiffer and Kevin Sechelksi for putting together a killer panel and making the battle a memorable one. You guys still kicked ass and your panel is ridiculously awesome.

Thank you to everyone who partook and voted during the battle! More collaborations on the way!

ELROD

Panel #1- Lindsey Chesus, Redlands CA

2011-06-15T12:57:00.000-07:00

Well, look who it is!

Panel #1 has made contact! Man, I am so happy to see this panel back on the road and gettin' all dolled up by our collaborators. The most recent artist to have her way with the panel was the pet portrait pro from Redlands, Lindsey Chesus. Her addition to the sad pharaoh is completely suiting and looks feakin' fantablulous [you see, the thing about being a blogger is I can write as horribly as i can, with no regrets. "Fantabulous'' is now a word, k?] When I first met Lindsey, she was rockin' the craft scene up in Berkeley and I was sad to see her leave the area to go back to her homeland down in SoCal. It's so great to see her back on the art train and pumping out these killer pet portraits. Check out the goods and her website here!

Oh and may I just say that this panel is turning out to be one of my faves? YUP.

My name is Lindsey Chesus. I am from Redlands, CA, and I paint, sew, decorate, draw and lots of other crafty things.

What is your earliest “artistic” memory?

I remember taking art classes in school and thinking how easy and fun they were. Also, I used to draw with chalk a lot in the front of my house.

What are three words that best describe your artwork?

Saint Feline of Metallic Wonder (I know, it's four words :) )

What inspires you?

Mucha, old religious art, cats, dogs and shiny colors

What is your goal in life?

To enjoy myself as much as possible

Name something you love, and why.

My Aunt, for showing me art at a young age and my animals.

What makes you angry?

Bad things- Bad drivers, bad art, bad people etc.

What was your favorite toy as a kid?

I wish it were some cool and hip artsy thing, but I loved Pound Puppies and Polly Pocket. Those kinds of things made my imagination go wild.

What is your favorite toy now?

My animals, if they could be toys. I play with them, so it counts, right?

What is your “dream” art project?

Designing a pet food or pet treat design with my cat Ben on it. And I would like to paint an animal picture (preferably my cat Ben), and have it auctioned off to help the ASPCA.

What have you been listening too while you’ve been working on your art [recently]?

Louie Armstrong, some other 1930s-40s music, and also nothing at all. I do my best work in silence because it helps me focus on the art and zone out.

If you were a cocktail on a drink menu at a bar, what would your name be?

Kitty Kolada

If you could go back in time and talk to “8 year old YOU”, what would you say to her/him?

NOTHING! Haven't you seen Back to the Future?! That would devastate my whole existence.

If you could collaborate with any other artist [living or dead], who would it be and why?

ELROD. Because with our love of sparkle, we could create a great mexa-cat God.

What is the best bit of advice that you have ever been given?

Life is for the living. Don't waste your time doing things that don't make you happy.

If you had a chance to say one sentence for the whole world to hear, what would you say?

If you had a pet, there would be world peace.

One Mexi-Cat God coming right up! And may I just say that you can totally go back in time and talk to your young self and get hooked up! Remember Biff Tannen in BTTF II? You could have a freakin' casino and be the ruler of a slum town... BALLIN!

So, how about it? Lindsey's cat goddess is perfect for this panel, no? There's still two more sick artists following this act and I can guarantee this panel is going to be a real crowd pleaser. Next to attack panel numero uno is an insanly talented master of his craft, Albert Ramos of San Fran-sicko. Minds, prepare to be blown. Much love to Lindsey~ your work was well worth the wait, darlin'.

Panel #1 mileage recap- during its first leg, it went from SF to Campbell and put 53.17 miles on it. Then, from Campbell to Redlands, it's a 408.22 mile trip. New grand total for the maiden panel is 461.39!

More updates on the way!

ELROD

FINAL ROUND! Battle of the Sexes Finale

2011-06-09T21:23:00.000-07:00

Hey art lovers~

OoooooOOoooh I'm so happy right now... We have the next two panels all complete and ready for you to gawk at. EVEN BETTER, it's the ::GONG:: Battle of the Sexes panels! Hell yeah! Now we get to check out what the two teams created in an effort to out-collaborate each other.

As usual, we're gonna start with my girls, heeeeey ladies!!!!

Last up on panel #5 is Ms. Corrin Duran of Covina, CA. Corrin is known for her bold and bright artwork and from what I have seen, she carries on very upbeat/ happy themes. She's got a feel-good vibe and it totally resonates in her art. I think this panel was perfect for her because it already had that sweet babe lounging out all mellow with her jams and flower patterns~ totally made for Corrin's aesthetic. Check it out and enjoy her interview:

What is your earliest “artistic” memory?

My earliest memory would have to be trying to throw a tag on the ground with my chalk...hahah. I remember drawing brick walls and writing on them.

What are three words that best describe your artwork?

Colorful,eclectic and fun

What inspires you?

Graffiti,robots,monsters and myloved ones.

What is your goal in life?

To make sure I fulfill some purpose in life. Also to travel and do art.

Name something you love, and why.

Avocados!!! because they are just so damn good!

What makes you angry?

When people complain about something continuously when they can change it.

What was your favorite toy as a kid?

Cabbage patch kids. My mom would watch my little cousin and I would steal all his diapers and baby food and use them for my dolls. They were well taken care of hahaha

What is your favorite toy now?

I-pod. I can't go anywhere without it.

What is your “dream” art project?

I really want to start a graffiti magazine. I have so many flicks and ideas.

What have you been listening too while you’ve been working on your art[recently]?

recently it's DJ Sneak,Aesop,The Black Keys and Kaskade

If you were a cocktail on a drink menu at a bar, what would your name be?

Well... I prefer beer but as a cocktail i would say CHUNKY BUT FUNKY!

If you could go back in time and talk to “8 year old YOU”, what would you say to her/him?

Dang this question is kinda deep. I would say "pay attention in school this stuff does really matter in the real world."

If you could collaborate with any other artist [living or dead], who would it be and why?

I would have to say Brandon Boyd. I'm a huge fan of his art and his lyrics.

What is the best bit of advice that you have ever been given?

Any advice my parent's usually give is right on but the one thing that always sticks with me is " You can't make everyone happy so do what is best for you."

If you had a chance to say one sentence for the whole world to hear, what would you say?

Love yourself and never stop learning.

AWESOME. Girl rocked the panel and someone stick a fork in it, THIS PANEL IS DONEZO, BABY! Hell yeah! These four ladies definitely created something special here. A glorious babe jamming out to some tunes as the vibes and flowers float about to the beat... goooorgeous! Shit, I really wish I was better writer so I can put into words how I feel about this battle... it's amazing you guys!

And now that the ladies have showed us what they got, it's time to see what the boys have retaliated with.

Last up on Panel #4 is a truly talented artist and bonafide hustler from Houston, TX, Kevin Sechelski. I met this guy through the NeoPopStreetFunk board show and I've gotten to know his art and work ethic relatively well... The boy can hustle. He works in real estate, graphic design, fine art, AND is a daddy/husband.... HOW DOES HE DO IT???

My name is Kevin Sechelski [shell-ski]... I live in Houston, Texas and work in real estate, graphic design and fine art.

What is your earliest "artistic" memory?

Growing up i was always drawing and creating things...Mt older brother would come home from school displaying 80's heavy metal omages drawn on his schoolbooks by other kids in class. I remember trying to draw them myself over and over again until I got it right.

What are three words that best describe your artwork?

Emotional, intense, and ever-changing...

What inspires you?

I really want to inspire other people...I want to create a reaction or conversation and be able to communicate a thought or idea. I want people to feel something inside that makes me look back when they walk away. I said one time that art should punch you int the stomach and leave you gasping for air...

What is your goal in life?

Man this is a hard one... I feel goals change every five years but at this point my one goal is to be the best dad and husband I can. Art wise, i would like to stay consistent in showing my work and maybe one day try to become a full-time artist. Also, maybe making it on the cover of Juxtapoz Magazine would be kinda cool too.

Name something you love and why.

Beer! Because it makes my face happy!

What makes you angry?

People's bandwagon approach to politics...seems like no one can think for themselves these days...

What was your favorite toy as a kid?

I had an E.T. doll that never left my side...

What is your favorite toy now?

My gas powered skateboard...

What is your "dream" art project?

I would love to do a complete installation at a major contemporary museum...

What have you been listening to while you work on your art [recently]?

Manchester Orchestra, Mumford & Sons and some old 80's rap...

If you were a cocktail on a drink menu at a bar, what would your name be?

"Dyn-O-Mite" that's a little J.J from "Good times"

If you could collaborate with any other artist [living or dead], who would it be and why?

Kinda wish I could collaborate with the 10-year old version of me. Life has different visions of mind from different age points.

Or Robert Rauschenberg.

What is the best bit of advice that you have ever been given?

"Treat each opportunity as if it's your last"

If you had a chance to say one sentence for the whole world to hear, what would you say?

"If you're not happy with your life, stop bitching and do something about it"

Ok, no for reals, I LOVE his bit of advice part... man, good shit homie! But what do you all think about his work that completed the Boys' panel? Pretty sweet, right???? Thank you for partaking in el collabo, Kevin. You really helped make this project a memorable and exciting one. Keep up the work and I just know that one day we will be seeing you on the front cover of ALL the art magazines.

OK! So, what have you? WHO DO YOU THINK WON THE BATTLE???? Did Jen, Janelle, Erin and Corrin take the title with their colorful babe panel, or did Ed, Oscar, Eddie and Kevin impress you with their hilariously awesome work??? THERE CAN BE ONLY ONE [well, technically FOUR, but ONE PANEL].

LETS DO A RECAP AND SOME SEXY CLOSE-UPS OF ALL THE ARTIST'S WORK!

On the ladies panel:

The hot bikini babe done by JEN OAKS of Berkeley

The beat box and jay bird by J DUB [Janelle Cuba] of Moreno Valley

The gorgeous tattoo work and floral designs by ERIN HAMILTON of Oakland

Sound and color vibrations by CORRIN DURAN of Covina

Back of the panel! Artist sigs!

And one final look at it!

Now for the BOYS!

The fighting cock of fury by ED HE

The Colonel by P.DILLA [Oscar Padilla]

Dino-riding robot by EDDIE SHIFFER

Whale and prints by KEVIN SECHELSKI!

Back of the beast

And for your final viewing pleasure...

Seriously you guys, this battle was bad ass and you have got to take a sec and give these artists some love in the comments area below. Tell us all what you did about this battle and WHO DO YOU THINK WON????

To the winner goes the bragging rights!

Cast your votes and thank you all so much. Peace, Love and Art!

ELROD

Panel #8- Jessi Kempin of San Francisco, CA

2011-06-08T19:48:00.000-07:00

Hey all,

Today we celebrate the birth of a new panel baby, and it's name is Panel #8. The first artist to welcome this glorious love-art child is the wildly awesome Jessi Kempin of San Francisco. Ms. Kemp is not only a strong advocate for the proper burial of small animals [like art st

ore pet fish, or little dead birdies on the sidewalk] but she's quite the fabulous mixed media artist as well. I got a chance to catch her work at a group show in North Beach and her work totally put a smile on my face. Her addition to the panel is super precious and a little somber, but it still made my lips do that smiley thing...

Just to add a little context to her work, Jessi moved her fridge and found a sweet little dead mouse holding a precious nut close to his heart... imagine him using his last little bit of energy holding onto that nut....[tear*]. Sweet little mouser:

Hello ! I am Jessi Kempin. I was born in Germany, raised in Seattle, schooled in New York City (at Parsons),

 and just moved to the fine city of San Francisco in October 2010. I work full time at the coolest art store in

San Francisco, Artist and Craftsman Supply (in North Beach). When I'm home, I'm breathing life into my own

business, Year of the Pig Studio (www.yearofthepigstudio.wordpress.com) and also yelling at cable cars from

my roof.

What is your earliest “artistic” memory?

It would have to be drawing food. I used to go around my house and make my family "order" from a menu I'd

written up. Once they'd "placed" their orders, I'd rush to my room to draw their food. A plate of fries. A sandwich.

 An ice cream. Whatever they wanted. And then I would "serve" them their food thereafter.


 What are three words that best describe your artwork?


Whimsical, playful, and colorful.

What inspires you?

I wouldn't be creating if not for other artists inspiring me, naturally. but in general ? I am inspired by animals

and industrial city landscapes. I'm enamored with powerlines and have been for a long while.


What is your goal in life?

If I had it my way, I'd spend the rest of my life painting in a studio and taking photographs - selling my work

in galleries. I want my work to hang on walls in as many corners of the world as possible.


Name something you love, and why.

Horses. For their strength, wisdom, and compassion. 

What makes you angry?

When people mess with my family, friends, and/or animals; I am loyal beyond belief and will do anything to

 protect them.

What was your favorite toy as a kid?

It's a toss up between 'My Little Ponies,' 'Breyer Horses,' and 'Playmobile.' oh, and let's not forget 'Polly Pocket.'

What is your favorite toy now?

My cameras. Nikon (entirely manual, I never graduated to digital), Holga, and Polaroid SX-70.


What is your “dream” art  project?

That's tough. I've always wanted to do a large scale mural - like the side of a building, filled with all sorts animals

and cities and colors.


What have you been listening to while you’ve been working on your art [recently]?


 Most recently it's been Radiohead's new album The King of Limbs, The Radio Dept., and Young Galaxy's album

 Shapeshifting.

If you were a cocktail on a drink menu at a bar, what would your name be?

"Kokomo" (it's a long story).

If you could go back in time and talk to “8 year old YOU”, what would you say to her/him?

I would tell her that everything happens for a reason, so stop trying to control the uncontrollable.

If you could collaborate with any other artist [living or dead], who would it be and why?

Probably Aubrey Beardsley - he was a genius.

What is the best bit of advice that you have ever been given?

"Everything will be okay in the end. And if it's not, then it's not the end."

If you had a chance to say one sentence for the whole world to hear, what would you say?

This too shall pass

Bravo, my friend, BRAVO. Many thanks and much respect to Jessi for sharing her talents and words with us.

What do you think? Do you like her homage to the dead fridge mouse? I LOVE IT.

Next up on the agenda for Panel #8 is a trip down to SOCAL to an artist by the name of

Phillip Garza. He already did the work on it, so give me a few days to catch up and get his post

 all set up. Promise it will have been worth the wait!

See you again tomorrow with another catch up post!

Much Love,

ELROD

Panel #2- Gilbert Goodwin of Reno, NV

2011-06-06T21:08:00.000-07:00

Hello friends!

My name is Elrod. You might remember me from previous postings such as the ones I posted OVER A MONTH AGO. Holy Cripes! My deepest apologies to all of my collaborators who have continued to work hard and keep creating beautiful pieces of art while I got distracted for a hot minute there.

BUT ENOUGH ABOUT ME.

Today we're going to catch up on long lost panel #2! Last time we saw her, she just left the hands of photographer David Rogers in Provo, Utah, and from there she traveled across the state and over to the biggest little city in the world, Reno! Out there, the panel made good friends with an inspiring word smith and experimental artist by the name of Gilbert Goodwin. Between his kills with rhymes, his tricks on his skateboard, and his talent with a brush, Gilbert is basically a walking piece of art. He was more than excited when he found out about this project and it thrills me to see him creating visual art again. Let's do this thing!

My name is Gilbert Goodwin. I am originally from Riverside ca. Now residing in reno nevada.

I mostly skate, make music and try to be an artist in my own way. I guess I chill too.

What is your earliest “artistic” memory?

Making a paper machete face when I was in school real early I used pencil sharperner shavings as eyes

everybody thought that was cool. That and ninja turtles, I was always getting down on those!

What are three words that best describe your artwork

Simple. Complex. Cool.

What inspires you?

Life insipires me. All things.

What is your goal in life?

To be happy, for sure .

Name something you love, and why.

My skateboard- Its my escape.

What makes you angry?

Anger and hate take up too much energy wheres the love?

What was your favorite toy as a kid?

Ninja turtles and fireworks, hands down.

What is your favorite toy now?

My tye dye beer cozy!

What is your “dream” art project?

To buy a house and put a mini ramp next to the bbq.

What have you been listening too while you’ve been working on your art[recently]?

Alot of everything: Sabbath, Biggie, my own stuff, Alot of instrumental love music. Night Nurse.

If you were a cocktail on a drink menu at a bar, what would your name be?

Miller High Gump. The pinnacle of beers.

If you could go back in time and talk to “8 year old YOU”, what would you say to her/him?

Dont steal that car in 9th grade!! haha just kidding. I dont know really, no regrets. Invest!

If you could collaborate with any other artist [living or dead], who would it be and why?

Richie Valens or Jim Corce. I grew up with my dad playing their music on the guitar and I've

always loved there music. It seems like they both got taken out in their prime. Just to sit in on a session

would have been awesome.

What is the best bit of advice that you have ever been given?

Un dia a la ves mi cristo!

If you had a chance to say one sentence for the whole world to hear, what would you say?

LIVE 4 DIE 4!!

Thank you Gumpilla the Killa! you work is tight and it's a treat to have you bestow your talents upon us. Keep doing your thing and SK8 or DIE!!!

Mileage- From Provo UT to Reno NV- 579.84, and a total of 1978.85 [from original starting point of Chicago, IL]. Next up on the bill for this panel is Kim Webster of Sacramento CA. Get a sneak peek at her skills on her website here!

Get ready because you're all getting updated on a new artist EVERY DAY until I catch up with this beast, cool?

Peace,

ELROD

BATTLE OF THE SEXES: PART 3

2011-04-28T14:47:00.000-07:00

DANG ELROD BE TAKING DAYZ. Sorry it took so long for me to actually post this!

Panels #4 and #5, a.k.a The Battle of the Sexes Panels, have just finished another round and it's time to share the goods.

LADIES FIRST!

Man, what can I say about Erin Hamilton of Oakland CA, other than her skills are OFF THE HOOK. I mean, seriously, this girl is packin' heat! She's been studying illustration at at the Academy of Art and her work is no joke, bad ass. You HAVE TO check out her site and get to know her other work, soooo worth the time! See how hyped up my sentences are?! THAT'S how excited I get when I see her work!

Ok, I'll just calm down and let you see for yourself what I'm talking about:

My name is Erin Hamilton, I've lived in California for 11 years, Texas is where my family lives, but we moved a lot when I was young. (Colorado, Ohio, Canada: my Dad is a musician and University Professor and liked to travel).
I'm a visual artist (painting, drawing, design) and am currently working on my MFA in San Francisco at the Academy of Art University with a degree in illustration.

What is your earliest “artistic” memory?

I remember making this 2 ft tall cutout decorated snowman in 2nd grade that my teacher loved best of all the winter themed art in class, or so it seemed to me, but it was probably just a beginning point for my art-ego driven delusions.

What are three words that best describe your artwork?

Diverse, detailed, playful

What inspires you?

The architecture and energetics of different cities, nature (trees/plants/animals/bugs) people; friends and strangers, watching the early morning commuters on the bart train all sleeping like babies in business suits, movies, life/death/beautiful/ugly contradictions.

What is your goal in life?

To be happy, healthy, and wealthy (sounds cliche, but it's truly my current list of goals)

Name something you love, and why.

Having a day with no agenda or plans because it's rare to have those days right now, and I often take them anyway, then experience the self-employment anxiety of not working "enough".

What makes you angry?

Being angry makes me angry.

What was your favorite toy as a kid?

Horses

What is your favorite toy now?

My bike.

What is your “dream” art project?

I'd like to work on a film or video someday.

What have you been listening to while you’ve been working on your art[recently]?

Radiohead, Lali Puna, Cocorosie, Subtle, my upstairs 11 year old neighbor who plays Jazz trombone and piano (not by choice, though entertaining on occasion; have you ever heard an 11 year old play "Thriller" or Stevie Wonder songs on a Trombone? So good/bad!!!), and random stations on Pandora.

If you were a cocktail on a drink menu at a bar, what would your name be?

Tall glass of water, no ice?
I don't know, I usually only go to bars to hear music ...
Ok I got it: "eboogie" (it's a nickname given to me by 2 different people independent of each other; I like to dance like a freak I guess)

If you could go back in time and talk to “8 year old YOU”, what would you say to her/him?

Sweet long haired little girl, please oh please, DO NOT cut the sides of your hair shorter than the back and then feather your bangs, or you will look like a boy, later find out that your haircut is called a "mullet", and have to look at that haircut boy-phase on the family photo wall FOREVER.
AKA, The wall of shame (sorry Mom).

If you could collaborate with any other artist [living or dead], who would it be and why?

I'd like to do an art/music project with Bjork because she has such a unique, playful, yet hardworking persona and sense of freedom to what she does.

What is the best bit of advice that you have ever been given?

Don't worry so much.
(I'm still working on that)

If you had a chance to say one sentence for the whole world to hear, what would you say?

Leanne, this is too much pressure.
The whole world?
Is there a translator for people who don't speak english?
Hmmmmmmm......
I think I'd find the most bass thumping awesome song I could and just play it really loud and hope for a big ol' dance party and a little less fighting.

Beautiful! Thank you, Erin. I am so honored that you took part in the collabo and you rocked it...hardcore.

Time to see what those rascal boys are up to! Last time we saw the panel, it looked like a showdown between a rooster and Colonel Sanders [a la Ed and Oscar] and now we get to see what my boy Eddie Shiffer of El Centro did! Eddie is a wildly talented guy from the south that paints great political and energy-fueled oil works and I've witnessed him dappple into some super cool mixed media work as well. Check his website and enjoy his interview!

Aaaaaand it looks like Eddie is keeping the theme of "hilarious"!

My name is Eddie Shiffer I’m from the Imperial Valley in Southern California. The Imperial Valley is a county that shares a border with Mexico and Arizona. Many of my works deal with border issues, race, social injustice, capitalism, lack of accountability, and the duality of not belonging here or there. For the better part of my adult life I have been I teacher. I have being a tutor, a substitute teacher, a kindergarten teacher, a high school art teacher and even a community college instructor. I like to convey ideas and give people the tools to create their own. That’s why I love art, it allows me to teach and create at the same time.

What is your earliest “artistic” memory?

Drawing Fred Flintstone on the back of an envelope with one of my cousins. Mine was a little skinny if I remember correctly.

What are three words that best describe your artwork?

Political, cultural, opinionative…or blah blah blah…

What inspires you?

What inspires me are random thoughts, television, news, political issues, people, cartoons, music, coffee, food, and all things good and not so good. Life is just full of events both big and small that mold and inspire me to make art.

What is your goal in life?

Just to do the best I can, finding joy in the small things, and not owe anything to anyone.

Name something you love, and why.

What I love is the look on the face of someone who just got it. This happens a lot when you are teaching. It could be something as simple as 2+2=4 but the look lets you know that person has just learned something that they will use forever.

What makes you angry?

What makes me angry is laziness, complacency, and lack of motivation and squandered opportunities. I have had so many brilliant students with everything handed to them on a silver platter and many of these students have no ambition to do anything. This drives me nuts.

Side note, “stupidity” an intermediate painting student came up to me and asked me what colors make red. WTF, really! At least that’s what crossed my mind but I didn’t say it out loud. Once I told her red is a primary color and you can’t mix colors to make red she went back and told her group of friends that they couldn’t mix colors to make red.

What was your favorite toy as a kid?

I didn’t have a lot of money but, I some how ended up with the twins from G.I. Joe Tomax and Xamat, I thought that was so cool. I always cheered for the bad guy too. Cobra!

What is your favorite toy now?

All my toys are gone now, but gel medium and encaustic wax keeps me entertained.

What is your “dream” art project?

It would be a Mural. It would involve artists from both sides of the U.S. and Mexican border paintings on the fence at the same time and we would cross back and forth between counties without any papers. We would all be illegal artists and there would be no way of telling us apart. Then at the end of the project you could stay in whatever country you want to stay in.

What have you been listening too while you’ve been working on your art[recently]?

Tom Waits, Beatles, Juan Gabriel, Cafeta Cuba, Gypsy Kings, Leonard Cohen, Talking Heads, Dan Auerbach, Al Green and a radio station called Jose, “Nunca sabes lo que va tocar” It plays all the songs from my mother’s generation that I grew up hearing.

If you were a cocktail on a drink menu at a bar, what would your name be?

I would be called “Mister Mister”

I would be a mixture of a Redheaded Slut, a Jack and Ginger, and Don Julio Tequila. I don’t know what that would taste like but I bet you would go blind if you had more than two.

If you could go back in time and talk to “8 year old YOU”, what would you say to her/him?

Play more and make a lot of friends, quit being so shy and take a lot of chances. Then I would give myself some money so I could buy some candy.

If you could collaborate with any other artist [living or dead], who would it be and why?

Leonardo Da Vinci, I think he’s “the most interesting man in world,” The Dos Equis man would be jealous. If he were alive in our lifetime he would have invented Post-its. That’s whom I would pick

What is the best bit of advice that you have ever been given?

“Fuck Them or Fuck’em.” This had gotten me in and out of a lot of trouble.

If you had a chance to say one sentence for the whole world to hear, what would you say?

If you have anything extra food, clothing, shelter, good advise or even a story, pass it on to someone who needs it.

Good message, great art! Thank you Eddie!!!! Your dinosaur-riding robot shall go down in history as the best dinosaur/robot tag team...EVER.

We're almost finished with the battle!!! Just two more artists left, Corrin Duran of Covina and Kevin Sechelski of Houston! Let's wait and see what they do and then I will need all of YOU to cast your vote and decided who wins the battle.

My love and respects to all,

ELROD

New Panel ALERT

2011-04-28T13:57:00.000-07:00

Hey ya'll,

Ready for some fresh work? while we're waiting on some updates to come in, we went ahead and kicked off a few new panels! Let's start off with Panel #6 that started lasted week. Here is the lineup of the talent that will be gracing the panel this time around:

Kieran [K.E.A.C] of San Francisco, CA

Danee123 of Thrift Shoppe Designs in Riverside [woot woot!], CA

Bri Wisengrad of Sin City, NV

Nicky Davis of Cypress, TX

The first person to get nasty on the panel is my girl Kieran Collins. I've seen this artist flourish over the past year and her work is getting more more solid every time she picks up a paint brush. I wish you could all see her work in person because photos just don't cut it! The textures and colors I find in her work are so well thought out and satisfying. I'm really digging how she attacked the collabo project! She went all out and covered the whole thing with a simply sweet sidewalk scene and plastic bag.... that plastic bag is the most beautiful thing I have ever seen...

I'm kieran, and apparently I lag. And am terrible at e-interviews.

I was born and raised in Orange County but have been on the east coast for the better part of my life. I do art school and make art bits.

What is your earliest “artistic” memory?

I distinctly remember tracing platypuses. And also making a drawing of a soccer cleat that read "go for your gole!" Apparently, self-ascribed creativity trumped grammatical correctness.

What are three words that best describe your artwork?

Intimate, textured, processual.

What inspires you?

Shapes, contrast, history, dialogue.

What is your goal in life?

To earn a living making art that is altruistic in nature. And to find an exact copy of my childhood dog, Nikki (dachshund/corgi mix)

Name something you love, and why.

I love chickpeas. I really do. Because of taste, versatility and nutritional value. And I love Italy, for most of the reasons other people love Italy.

What makes you angry?

Slow walkers, umbrellas, and being rushed.

What was your favorite toy as a kid?

Candy

What is your favorite toy now?

Pervy, Leanne. Honestly. I guess it would be my rectangle gauge.

What is your “dream” art project?

A collaborative in the distant future with Emilio Villalba at the MoMA (any location)

What have you been listening too while you’ve been working on your

art[recently]?

Glasser, Erik Satie, and The Xx. I also like Lady GaGa but dont listen to her that much- and I dun' care.

If you were a cocktail on a drink menu at a bar, what would your name be?

Tomboy Collins

If you could go back in time and talk to “8 year old YOU”, what would you say to her/him?

"I like your platypus. Keep at it. Consider studying art in college, not psychology."

If you could collaborate with any other artist [living or dead], who would it be and why?

Thats hard. Vuillard? Just to steal stylistic choices. Or perhaps Claes Oldenburg, to learn how he thinks- I like the tactility of his work, and his breadth of concept. Or Ruscha. I could go on and on.

What is the best bit of advice that you have ever been given?

Read.

If you had a chance to say one sentence for the whole world to hear, what would you say?

I actually don't think I'm qualified to say anything. It seems pretty presumptuous. Maybe I would handout Silly Putty or friendship bracelets?

Also want to say that the panel was inspired by a place in Italy, but it is namely an imagined space now.

Thank you, Kieran. And that plastic bag really is a beauty :)

#6 is off and on the road and is on her way down to the doorstep of my dearest homie and on of Riverside's leading stencilists, Danee "Thrift" Barrera of Thrift Shoppe Designs. Get ready for some fantastic work, because it's on it's way!

Much love and respect to you all,

ELROD

Panel #3- Gian Norte of Montebello, CA

2011-04-22T13:46:00.000-07:00

STICK A FORK IN HER, THIS B*TCH IS DONE! Yup yup, we finally have the first complete panel of El Travo Collabo 2011!!!!!!

But before I get into THAT, I want to introduce you all to MellyMel of LA! She is my long lost sister and partner in crime and I have asked her to guest write on the blog for our next Collabo artist, Gian Norte. Melly has been heling me recruit fresh faces from the LA area, and she's kind of a big deal, you know? haha, get into this post RIGHT. FREAKIN. NOW.

Hey everyone! Your lovely host asked me to guest write and introduce you to my talented recruits from LA (and a few just outside of LA city limits). My name is Melinda, or Mellymel if yo’ nasty! I happen to be a fan of ELROD’s and by some sick fate we met on the intrawebs. You know when you’re randomly searching through your friend’s profiles (like you never done that before) and find out, “wow! This vata has my artwork as her profile picture!” type of fate. Well, she saw her piece as my profile picture on the social network scene and it blew her mind in a good way (so I’m guessing?). After a few emails and a lot of laughs, I realized I met my soul sista and knew we would make a hardcore art hustlin’ team.

Now for the next artist on the panel and my first recruit to El Travo Collabo familia, Gian Flores Norte. I’m so stoked to introduce Gian’s work to the world. Gian is a true Angeleno, born and raised in East LA. I’ve known Gian for a few years now. We met when Gian worked with Mr. Cartoon at Last Laugh and I worked next door at Upper Playground. When he wasn’t hustlin’ Last Laugh gear to peeps, he was hard at work in his sketchbook. I knew when I saw Gian’s work that he had some dope skills creating his own signature line work. Always on his grind, he’s been busy tattooing and making a name for himself in the art world. He’s created some innovative installations and bold work on canvas that remind me of some tripped out amoeba. The colors and shapes he creates are so uninhibited and fresh. He’s definitely someone you want to keep an eye on! Gian’s work can be seen on Saturday, April 23rd at Soundbite Studios in Echo Parque. Get to know more about Gian and check out his interview AND his sick art HERE.

What is your earliest “artistic” memory?

GN:It was during kindergarten and for halloween we had to paint the pumpkins we had in class and my favorite color at the time was orange so i painted my pumpkin orange i remember my teacher telling my mom "he's going to be an artist"

What are three words that best describe your artwork?

GN:Organic, Amoeba-like, complex

What inspires you?

GN:Life, more like everyday life things I see on an everyday basis as well as street art graffiti on city streets, murals too.

What is your goal in life?

GN:My main goal, my main goal is to be able to do exactly what I love which is artwork and live on just doing that and not only life but live well. I want to have my art in galleries and have installations around the country and be a famous tattoo artist also.

Name something you love, and why.

GN: I love authenticity, whether it be in someone a place somewhere you eat or just in general. I think people and things that are authentic are lacking these days and things are more becoming mass produced, and everyone is trying to fit in with the way society wants people to want. I want love seeing original authentic artwork, i love authentic people, restaurants, ideas, places, like something you dont see everyday or that is rare to see.

What makes you angry?

GN: Conformity. I really hate how everybody wants to flock to a certain image of how they think they should look or what they should buy or what they should be doing. I know for a fact i've conformed in the past but I always knew i wasn't being true to myself. I believe everyone has something to offer the world as themselves as their own people.

What was your favorite toy as a kid?

GN: Wow this is a hard one lol! Well, me and my brother grew up watching predator and aliens and reading comic books. I can't zero in on just one, my favorites were all my toy guns especially the ones that made a shot sound, and all my predator, alien, spiderman,venom and marvel character toys.

What is your favorite toy now?

GN: My iphone lol. I can do so much from just the palm of my hand and it's a great way to stay in touch, plus Ihave some pretty sweet games on here too.

What is your “dream” art project?

GN: My dream project is to make a 10-16 foot instillation piece of one of my piece's but as you would assume in 3D.

What have you been listening too while you’ve been working on your art[recently]?

GN: Recently i've been listening to allot of rock, but the one band I listen to allot when i'm working is the Arcade Fire.

If you were a cocktail on a drink menu at a bar, what would your name be?

GN: Heavy kick, because when you drink me I want you to feel like someone kicked you off your feet lol

If you could go back in time and talk to “8 year old YOU”, what would you say to her/him?

GN: Don't be afraid of anyone or what anyone is going to tell you because you're gonna grow up into the person you want to be.

If you could collaborate with any other artist [living or dead], who would it be and why?

GN: Oh hands down Alex Pardee. I love Pardee's work the thought he puts into each piece is so well thought out and in depth and just his use of color and his line work is so on point.

What is the best bit of advice that you have ever been given?

GN: Don't ever let anyone tell you what you can and cannot do/be because only you and no one else are in control of your own destiny. Be truly You, Believe that there's no one bigger.

If you had a chance to say one sentence for the whole world to hear, what would you say?

GN: Amongst all the fighting and hate that our world is consumed with, has all this racism and killing and hate made the world a better place?

Well said. Thank you Gian for sharing your ameobic love and wise words. And a HUGE thank you to MellyMel for helping me with EVERYTHING! Without her, I fear this project would not exist. She has helped me plan and execute my vision and I shall be forever grateful to have her in my life. We familia now, hermana.

BUT, HEELLLOOOOOOOO! You guys! We JUST finished the FIRST complete panel of the project!!!!!! Let's take a trip down memory lane and see how this baby grew!

First- Elizabeth Amento of San Francsico:

Second- Sarah "Holla Back" Holbach of San Diego:

Third- Forest Stearns of Oakland:

Fourth- Gian Norte of Montebello:

BOOM! BANG! POW! Killed it!!

That's FOUR amazing artists and 1,772 miles of traveling!!! God, I love this project so much.

Take it all in, my friends. Tis a beautiful thing that we did here. 4 people with no prior connection, have created this single piece of traveling art and are now connected for life. And they did such a fantastic job. This panel has so much life and character and you can easily sport each artist's style. Job well done! It pains me to do this, but I must now wrap up Panel #3 and put her in storage until the shows begin next year. Or maybe this needs to be hanging in my office until then... hmmm.....

I love you all.

ELROD

BATTLE OF THE SEXES : PART 2

2011-04-08T15:17:00.000-07:00

ROUND TWO, PAINT!

Hey all, welcome back! First off, thank you all who have shared El Travo Collabo with all of your friends! It is so cool to have people contacting me and asking me

about what we're doing and to hear them get all excited really just makes my day. Help spread the word and the art by posting a link to your facebook so we can get more followers- the artists on this project deserve to have as much exposure as they can get!

Ok, let's get down to it- Last we left off on the Battle of the Sexes panels, Ed He of San Francisco painted a crazy man-rooster [yeah, you know...a cock] on the boys panel while Jen Oaks of Berkeley went all out with a sexy bikini babe on the ladies board. Both panels have since left the bay area and traveled in opposite directions- the ladies panel went down to SoCal, while the boys' went to Roseville [out past Sacramento]. Let's catch up on the two panels, and of course, LADIES FIRST!

The second stop on the road for the ladies panel is down in sunny Moreno Valley with tatoo artist Janelle "JDUB" Cuba of Inkaholics. She's a tattoo artist and an all around bad ass and I HAD to have her on the project! After participating in a mini art group show at the Rogue Elephant Gallery in MoVal with her, I hit up Janelle kind of random style via the facebooks and asked her if she would be interested in the project. This girl was perfect for the bill and she was more than down to contribute to the project. Check it out!

My Name is Janelle Cuba aka JDUB. I was born in Honolulu, HI. and currently reside in Moreno Valley, CA. I am a tattoo artist, and have been tattooing for the past 8 years.

What is your earliest artistic memory?

My earliest artistic memory is in kindergarten, when I did my first watercolor that I still have to this day. (Thank you for framing and keeping that for me mom!)

Three words that describe your art:

Free, easy, and heart.

What inspires you?

My family. they have always encouraged, supported and lifted me up in whatever I do... and I am thankful for that.

What is your goal in life?

My goal in life is to breathe everything in, accept whatever comes along and roll with it the best i can, bettering myself everyday [hopefully!].

Name something that makes you angry.

I think the number one thing that makes me angry is people who are inconsiderate of others.

What was your favorite toy as a kid?

My favorite was my Popple... hahahaha! I don't know if anyone remembers Popples [they were awesome].

What is your favorite toy now?

Hmmm... I don't think I have one. I wanna say my nephews. they are like toys but waaaaay better.

What is your dream art project?

My dream art project is to work with children, and illustrate a book about it.

What have you been listening to lately while you work [on your art]?

I listen to all types of music, mainly underground hip hop, classic rock and some punk rock. I do have my guilty

pleasures... I like a couple of one hit wonders from back in the day and a little bit of mainstream nonsense [that I will not name.. hahaha].

If you where a cocktail on a bar menu, what would your name be?

I actually do have a cocktail that was named after me [where i actually got "JDUB"]. I specially ordered it so much that the club named d "JDUB".

If you could go back in time and talk to 8 year old you, what would you tell him/her?

I would tell myself to save more money and pay attention in high school!

If you could collaborate with any artist, living or dead, who would it be?

If I could collaborate with anyone, it would be Pablo Picasso, just because he was free, the art was honest, there were no rules with him... and it seemed like he was an awesome person to hang with.

What is the best bit of advice that you ever been given?

Always do your best, never lie. ... 'cause you will always get caught.

If you had a chance to say one sentence for the whole world to hear, what would it be?

"Rock and Roll will all your HEART!"

Big ups to JDUB for getting down on El Collabo and for sharing all the goodness with us. Her boom box addition to the panel is crazy cool and that gloomy bird is too sweet~ LOVE. Bright, bold and ROCKIN'! Just like Janelle :)

Speaking of rockin' folks, let's keep this party rollin' and check in on the boys! The second artist to paint on the Boys' panel is none other than my brother from a different mother [a really sweet mother who makes thebomb diggidy arroz con pollo], Oscar Padilla aka P. Dilla. Oscar is another artist that I met super randomly and asked him to take part in the FIRST Travo Collabo [2009]. He also rocked the first panel of the project and it's so good to have him partake in the festivities again. He's a muralist from the East Bay who is now based out of Roseville, CA. His work is always bold, bright and are sure to give you a smile. So, remember how Ed He did that cool ass fighting rooster? Well, rooster, meet the Colonel. Colonel Sanders:

"He's an evil sunomabetch!"

What is your earliest “artistic” memory?

My earliest artistic memory was when I went to George Hall Elementary, out in San Mateo, The school had a art contest for “Keep San Mateo Beautiful”. I remember my older sister, Denisse, won and received a plaque. As the younger sibling, I followed her lead and strived to work towards receiving recognition for something I created…I’m still working on it.

What are three words that best describe your artwork?

How about two? WINNING!!...DUH!!

What inspires you?

I’m inspired by other people, I’ve always been inspired by things I’ve been through, but lately, i’ve been more inspired by others. I paint what they think up, I like it because it challenges me to think outside my normal relm of imagination and dip into someone elses.

What is your goal in life?

Success, however it may come. I want a family and want to make sure that they are well taken care of.

Name something you love, and why.

As corny as it sounds, I love my girlfriend Amy. She has kept me grounded and more level minded than I’ve ever been. She’s always pushing me forward and she’s always been a huge support. I also love my truck, her names Betsy. She keeps me busy and out of trouble, but she is a fucking gold digger!! Always taken money out my pocket.

What makes you angry?

I get angry when I see people that grew up in a good household, who had lots of good opportunities, and a great upbringing that try to act “hood”. People that didn’t know what struggle was, that didn’t grow up seeing their parents struggle to be able to offer them a better life and then they grow up disrespectful and they act “gangsta”. It really irritates me. My family didn’t come from a wealth background, and we grew up in small one bedroom apartments with one car households, but what we lacked made us humble, it made us appreciate things. I don’t think you can appreciate something when you’ve had it all your life.

What was your favorite toy as a kid?

Grant! I got this 12 inch G.I. Joe action figure. He had a scar on his face from the war!! He came with guns and ropes and awesomeness!!! I swear I had that toy for hella years, then one day I tied him to the back of my bike, to prove to my friend that my G.I. Joe was tougher than his, I was wrong…Grant’s plastic chest broke open, his rubber head went rolling into the gutter, and all that was left were his two non-bendy rubber legs. *tear* Damn you for reminding me Leanne!!

What is your favorite toy now?

My favorite toy now is probably my fixie, I love that thing, other than that, my PS3 that my girlfriend hates.

What is your “dream” art project?

My dream project would probably be to paint the side of a building with a bunch of close friends and some ice cold brews.

What have you been listening too while you’ve been working on your art[recently]?

I listen to a shuffle mix of Credence Clearwater Revival, Tupac, The Black Keys, Hendrix, Marley, B.I.G., Elvis Presley, and a couple old school bands like Zepplin and ACDC. Its like P90X for your earlobes, musical confusion.

If you were a cocktail on a drink menu at a bar, what would your name be?

Butterface. It would make anyone look good.

If you could go back in time and talk to “8 year old YOU”, what would you say to her/him?

“Quit playing with that thing so much, it’s gonna fall off!”

If you could collaborate with any other artist [living or dead], who would it be and why?

Probably Salvador Dali. I think it would have been great to try to not sleep for hella days and start to dream while I was still awake. I read that he use to do this for inspiration.

What is the best bit of advice that you have ever been given?

Growing up my mom didn’t always agree with me on things, but she would always say the same thing, “Si te hace feliz” I’ve continued to live by those words, sometimes for the worse, but I’ve learned. It’s always stuck with me.

If you had a chance to say one sentence for the whole world to hear, what would you say?

Do what makes you happy no matter who you hurt, if they care, they’ll see you happy and will be happy as well.

Thank you, hermano. I am forever grateful for you participating in the project and for believing in my vision- And your Colonel is effing ridiculous and I love it! hahaha! You can check out more of Oscar's work here.

So what do you all think? Did Janelle's boom box blast your face off your head or did Oscar's evil colonel make you laugh your feathers off? Tell us all who you think took Round 2 in the Battle of the Sexes!

Mile Math:

Panel #5 Ladies- From Berkeley to Moreno Valley- 477.59 miles

Panel #6 Guys- From San Francisco to Roseville- 117.06 miles

Next up for the ladies is Erin Hamilton of Oakland and for the guys it will be Eddie Schiffer of El Centro. Both are amazing artists that I deeply admire and I'm dying with anticipation to see what they do!

Much Love and Respect to You All,

ELROD

Panel #3- Forest Stearns, Oakland CA

2011-04-05T09:02:00.000-07:00

My Friends!

Thank you for returning and thank you to all of you who have been sharing this artistic endeavor with your friends! I've been scoping out [stalking] the facebook comments on the links and it's so cool to see what people think of this madness! Please share this with as many people as possible and always feel free to send new artists my way. I'll be recruiting new artists in a few weeks so feel free to send me as many talented people as you know! [email to mexakitsch@yahoo.com]

This time around, we're checking in on Panel #3 which was back in the bay

for a few days with the prolific Mr. Forest Stearns! Pretty much, prolific is the best word to describe this artist [I'm convinced he should just go and get the word legally attached to his name since it is used so often when referring to him] but you could also throw in ingenious, relentless, mad-skilled, always moving, always pushing... dude knows how to get sh*t done. And he does it well.

Here is the newest addition to Panel #3 by Mr. Stearns! Low and Three-Toed Slow baaaaaby!:

Heeeeeeeey! How tight is that? Best part is that you can check out his blog and you can read aaaaall about his creative process for this piece here. Dang, so fresh! Let's get inside his head a little more:

Good afternoon, My name is Forest Stearns, and I am from a town in the Cali mountains called Sonora, from then on I have lived in various places and had many jobs. From Alaska to Yosemite, Pittsburgh to Humboldt, SoCal to Oakland. I am an only child that both loves and hates graffiti, gravity and poison oak. Thankfully there has always been creativity and love in my life, constant inspiration, nature, athletics, problem solving, and adventure. I have studied art empirically and academically as long as I can remember and now it is a way of life. I am a strong advocate for education, communication and accessibility. A questioner of ownership and control. A huge fan of fun. I love spending time with my girl and our team of friends. And I love my job as an illustrator in Oakland it allows me to practice my skills and push my limits every day, draweverywhere.

What is your earliest “artistic” memory?

My mother is super industrious and as a child I have endless memories of her doing calligraphy, logo design and glass engraving, my father built cabinets and I was in his shop as a tike creating things with wood and nails. Outside of the house I have another super early interesting 3/4 year old memory; of going to a small sculpture gallery in my home town where a guy had built 3D dioramas of alien encounter stories. It was amazing, I was a small kid and I can still see pieces in my mind. They were beautifully made and ultra convincing. Pretty rad to see as a young guy, I think this is why I like aliens so much now.

What are three words that best describe your artwork?

Strong, bold, adventurous

What inspires you?

Loud textured sophisticated bass-ridden organic electronic music, animals in your backyard, letter science, sunny day bike riding to the farmers market, great meals with juice and coffee, catching characters with my team, Smart worldly people willing to have tasty conversations, the hard work and never ending love of my mom and dad, Epic views from mountain tops, hearing my girl laugh, smiles of strangers, old people dancing, ninjas and friendly cats and dogs.

What is your goal in life?

To do what I love best for the people who see it as the most valuable.

Name something you love, and why.

Sushi dinners with friends because of the wasabi and the laughter and the hot tea and the chopsticks.

What makes you angry?

Racism, hate, bigotry, road rage, inconsideration, and poor design

What was your favorite toy as a kid?

frogs, snakes, legos, dirt, chalk, and my bike

What is your favorite toy now?

my sketchbook and my bike

What is your “dream” art project?

a transglobal multimedia live art music tour through festivals, preschools, town squares, city centers, space stations and universities, getting people stoked on sustainability, responsibility, communication, education, compassion, and resiliency.

What have you been listening too while you’ve been working on your art[recently]?

Amon Tobin, Aceyalone, Telefon Tel Aviv, Blackalicious Cinematic Orchestra, Beats Antique, Mimosa, Bonobo,

If you were a cocktail on a drink menu at a bar, what would your name be?

The mover and shaker, (never on the rocks)

If you could go back in time and talk to “8 year old YOU”, what would you say to her/him?

Read more, ask more questions, and Tell the people that you love that you love them.

If you could collaborate with any other artist [living or dead], who would it be and why?

I would take figure drawing with Egon Shellie and Gustav Klimpt because their work is spooky, tight and brilliant, catch tags with Twist and Dream because they care about style from the micro to the macro, build alien sculptures with Lee Bontecou because she is on some next level thinking, sketchbook session with James Jean because he is a legend of prolificness, talk god and myth with Joseph Campbell and Richard Dawkins because they understand, illustrate an album cover with Amon Tobin because he builds universes, ride my bike with Einstein because he showed up and rocked, Garden with Michael Pollan because he works with the seasons and celebrates the harvest, and grow mushrooms with Paul Stamets because he will save the planet.

What is the best bit of advice that you have ever been given?

Build an Empire, Breathe, Practice, Enjoy, and Live Up.

If you had a chance to say one sentence for the whole world to hear, what would you say?

Go Practice!

Wow, thanks for all those wonderful words Forest! And so much love to you for getting down on the Collabo AGAIN! For some of you that don't know, El Travo Collabo began in 2009 and Forest was among the first group of artists to collaborate. Look in the side bar on the right, last panel on the bottom... that's the one!

Feeling mighty inspired right about now, friends! I love to hear form someone who is so into what they do with all their heart, mind, and soul. The passion just drips from these words and I am so thrilled to share this with all of you admirers out there. Follow Forest's blog and you can be sure to see marvelous and BIG things coming from him [as if his previous projects have not already blown my mind... painting onstage with DJ Shadow and whatnot... tiiiight].

MATH-A-MILEAGE! ::Reaches for abacus:: OK, so she went from SF to SD and put down 483.38 miles and now we're adding her trip from SD to Oakland ::slides little wooden beads back and forth:: So now Panel #3 is looking at 3 artists and 982.77 miles! We have one more SoCal aritst to go, GIAN NORTE of Montebello, CA and then she arrives back to the homeland for some finishing touches a la ELROD [me!]

See ya'll next time! Peace and so much love to you all!

ELROD

Panel #2- David Rogers, Provo UT

2011-03-29T10:56:00.000-07:00

My friends! I bring with me good news and artistic splendor for we shall finally have another update on Panel #2!!

Before I get into the business, I'd like to share a few words on the nature of the project. I know we all have busy lives and daytime jobs and even families, so I am continuously honored everyday when someone tells me they'd be willing to squeeze my project into their schedules. For that reason, I can't hold it against anyone who keeps the panel longer than one week. Hell, I've even lagged on a project for months [Anna, I'm totally working on your stuff!!!!] The only reason I put a deadline on the project is because as artists, we tend to get very busy and sometimes distracted and sometimes we're trying out some new techniques through trial and error which is both fun and scary. This is totally what happened to my man David Rogers when he got his hands on the panel. His craft is photography and he is good. He is DAMN good. He wanted to try out some new stuff on the project and so he gave it a few tries before he came up with the final product. Here is a snippet from the email he sent me about his process, which I found to be quite hilarious:

"At this point I'm freakin' out trying to figure out why you would send this obviously cursed panel to me! The demons spoke to me while I slept, cursing me in Latin phrases while eternal melancholy hovered over my head...there was no end to the terror.

As the twinkie wrappers piled up in a tall pile next to my bed I suddenly realized that this is art and I can do what I want. I went to the trash can, picked out the panel and got to work. I cut a wooden panel, painted the edges of it black and stuck my photo to it using a adhesive that won't come off until the dinosaurs come home! I drilled some holes in the panel and stuck my work over my past attempts using screws to hold it in place. I hope you know that we can never be friends again."

The unpredictability of this project is one thing that I can't get enough of and I hope everyone on the bill feels free to do what they will with it! And yeah, deadlines suck, but we all know that if we didn't have them... well, you know [don' make me say it].

THE BUSINESS! Here she is [and David!], in all of her cross-country glory!

What is your earliest “artistic” memory?

When I figured out that oil paints were good for something other than eating (around age 23).

What are three words that best describe your artwork?

Colorful, symmetrical, sketchy.

What inspires you?

The people I photograph. When I see them enjoying the photos I just took, it makes me want to just keep shooting more...also Rembrandt.

What is your goal in life?

To return from whence I came.

Name something you love, and why.

I love telling people that Jackoson Pollock is the greatest artist of the 20th century (I just like to see them roll their eyes).

What makes you angry?

That Polaroids are so dang expensive nowadays!

What was your favorite toy as a kid?

Those bears that you squeeze and their nose does something fun. Dang, what were those called?

What is your favorite toy now?

My plastic skateboards.

What is your “dream” art project?

To hook fuzzy balls on El Camino's all across America with Leanne, naturally.

What have you been listening too while you’ve been working on your art[recently]?

Mostly stuff by Enya (gotta' keep it mellow).

If you were a cocktail on a drink menu at a bar, what would your name be?

Appletini (also my nickname in highschool). [I thought it was D Money, money....mooonay]

If you could go back in time and talk to “8 year old YOU”, what would you say to her/him?

"Don't worry! You'll grow into your mustache."

If you could collaborate with any other artist [living or dead], who would it be and why?

I'd work with JR, traveling the world and putting up giant poster size photos on buildings (if you don't know who he is, look up his "Face2Face" projects).

What is the best bit of advice that you have ever been given?

"Don't ever do photos for free." (too bad I haven't been charging lately).

If you had a chance to say one sentence for the whole world to hear, what would you say?

"Give Peace a Chance" (naturally).

Funny you mention Enya, Daveed. I was driving to my mom's house on Sunday and that return to innocence song came on And I hadn't heard it in a LONG time [not since I last watched Man of the House with Jonathan Taylor Thomas]. You know, the one with the shaman indian guy chanting in it all "Hiiii yiiii yiiii, oh hii yii yii" hahaha yeah, you all know EXACTLY what I am talking about. Crap, that's going to be in my head all day now.

MILEAGE! From Chicago to Provo- 1,399.07 miles! Daaaaaamn Gina! Totally the longest leg ANY of the panels have done yet! and that's across 5 states too! Impressive #2, impressive. By the time this highly articulated and well-written blog is finished being typed up, #2 will be in the care of some very VERY good friends of mine in Nevada's biggest little city, RENO! We'll check on her in another week but in the mean time, keep you reading glasses on because updates from the other panels are rolling in!

Thank you all for stopping by and please help me spread the word of El Travo Collabo to your friends! Any and all promotion would be awesome! The world must know of the goodness that is El Collabo!

Much love and good vibes,

ELROD

BATTLE OF THE SEXES: PART 1

2011-03-24T18:51:00.000-07:00

JEN OAKS vs. ED HE

I have soooooo been waiting for this round to begin! OOooooh, this is going to be some fun because its time for the first update of the Battle of the Sexes round! Just to keep it proper, we’re going to begin with LADIES first ~

First up on the Ladies Panel [aka Panel #5] is Jen Oaks of Berkeley CA. Jen’s style is fabulously girlie and I think it was love at first sight with her art. I could probably spend all day staring at her luscious ladies and plump pinups without ever getting tired of them and just seeing one of them sprawled out on the panel is really putting me over the edge here. Is it hot in here? While I open a window, check out her website and take in a nice eyeful of her work and maybe have a laugh or two [her web comics always put a huge smile on my face]:

www.jenoaks.com

and how about some KITTY BON BON for good measure?

I'm Jen Oaks! I'm from Oklahoma City and now live in Berkeley next door to some chickens. I make pretty prints and buttons and things, and the occasional web comic, but lately I've been drawing babes. Currently I'm working on a fat gi

rl pinup calendar for 2012.

What is your earliest “artistic” memory?
I remember my preschool teacher telling my parents I had "serious artistic talent" because I drew a lacy

border on my valentine heart. Also, when I was six, I drew the scene from Mickey's Christmas Carol where Scrooge is being visited by Marley's ghost. There are leg chains and everything, and it has "Scrooooooooge!" at the top.

What are three words that best describe your artwork?
pretty, funny, colorful

What inspires you?
The gorgeous Bay Area. My menagerie of awesome, brilliant, bizarre friends and all of their talents. Crazy people on public transportation. Design blogs. Ridiculous, decadent fashion editorial spreads. Babes in general.

What is your goal in life?
That my husband and I can support ourselves -- and a future family -- by doing what we love. And also to live somewhere with a porch and a garden. And could I maybe get a window that doesn't look at the

backs of people's fences?

Name something you love, and why.I love springtime in Oklahoma because it's completely schizo and you have to check the weather every two hours. I miss it a lot.

What makes you angry?
Pretty much everything I read in the news that isn't a story about animals being awesome.

What was your favorite toy as a kid?

I played with dirt for hours. I made little villages out of mud, leaves and twigs, and then populated the villages with My Little Ponies. They usually met their demise via the lawn mower. And yes, I did love my Barbies.

What is your favorite toy now?
Ink, pixels, and texture.

What is your “dream” art project?
You'll find out when you get the postcard invite. :)

What have you been listening to while you’ve been working on your art[recently]?
Girl Talk, Department of Eagles, Midlake, Broken Social Scene, Tame Impala, Neon Indian, lots of other d-baggy hipster music I'm apt to get judged by.

If you were a cocktail on a drink menu at a bar, what would your name be?
Fizzy Thunderthighs

If you could go back in time and talk to “8 year old YOU”, what would you say to her/him?

"BE YOURSELF!"

If you could collaborate with any other artist [living or dead], who would it be and why?
I'm dying to do something with one of the many incredible comic artists I admire. I see a sexy mashup in there!

What is the best bit of advice that you have ever been given?
"Quit comparing. Do what you do."

If you had a chance to say one sentence for the whole world to hear, what would you say?
"Be excellent to each other."

FOR REAL. And what a HAWT way to start the piece, amirite??? Bikini babe jammin’ to some tunes... lookin real good to me! What do you all think?? Big thanks to Jen for doing her thing and rockin’ out a solid start for the ladie’s panel! She’s another one to keep a close eye on. I feel big things are about to come from this lady.

Let the competition begin because here comes the boys team with a little sumthin’ sumthin’ on the Guy's Panel [aka Panel #4] from Ed He of San Francisco. Ed is currently a Master’s student for painting and his work is no joke, LEGIT. I can honestly say I’ve been impressed with just about every piece of work I have seen of his and I envy his oil painting skills like crazy. Bums me out that he doesn’t have a website [AHEM*...ED] so you’ll just have to take my word when I say all of his work is amazing. But for now, you can see what he did on the Boy’s panel... which is pretty appropriate and RIDICULOUS, hahaha:

What is your earliest “artistic” memory?

Copying some other kid's farm animal drawings in 1st grade. He was good!

What are three words that best describe your artwork?
Time, Work, Payoff.

What inspires you?

My peers and instructors

What is your goal in life?
Survive with pencil and paper.

Name something you love, and why.
Learning!, because it's fun!

What makes you angry?
Lack of common sense.

What was your favorite toy as a kid?
Transformers from the 80s.

What is your favorite toy now?
Macbook Pro.

What is your “dream” art project?

Book cover illustration

What have you been listening too while you’ve been working on your art[recently]?
Epic movie soundtracks on Pandora.

If you were a cocktail on a drink menu at a bar, what would your name be?
Sake Bomb'ED lol

If you could go back in time and talk to “8 year old YOU”, what would you say to her/him?
"drop your homework and get drawing!"

If you could collaborate with any other artist [living or dead], who would it be and why?
Howard Pyle. He was an amazing teacher.

What is the best bit of advice that you have ever been given?
Practice Practice/ Wrap it around.

If you had a chance to say one sentence for the whole world to hear, what would you say?
Don’t be a pussy

Dude, did you seriously just paint a cock on the panel? LOL *face palm*

Ok, so what do you all think? Who’s in the lead so far? Did the sexy bikini girl rock your world or where you too busy placing bets on Ed’s fighting rooster???

Next up to battle are JDUB of Moreno Valley for the girls and P. Dilla fo Roseville for the guys!

Ready. Set.

GO.

Peace,
ELROD

P.S- This is the SECOND time an artist [Jen] has mentioned having The Christmas Carol as part of an early childhood artistic memory, LOL, remember Ryan Martinez's interview? Check it.

Panel #3- Sarah Holbach, San Diego CA

2011-03-21T21:27:00.000-07:00

Hey there collabo appreciators and collaborational art enthusiasts-

I welcome you back to another edition of El Travo Collabo 2011. On this weeks episode, we're checking in on Panel #3 which just left the hands of the sweetest crafty-hands-cute-face mcGee of them all- Sarah Holbach of San Diego. The girl does everything from painting, to sharpie-marking, to sewing, to building, to teaching and positively influencing the youth of tomorrow. Let's do this.

(planets of igloos. tepees. cities. houses. diamond constellations. quote courtesy of carl sagan. we are made of starstuff. ink, thread, nails, and love.)

hi. i'm sarah holbach, and i live in sweet san diego. i do handfuls of random things, mostly to keep me from ever

having a grown up 9-5 job. i teach art and literacy programs in four different cities, sew costumes and other goodness for

the new children's museum (contemporary art museum for kids in sd. magic), doodle my life away, and take a few classes here and there.

What is your earliest “artistic” memory?

taking scraps from the wood pile on the side of the house and torturing the poor things with glitter, puffy paint and berry juice from the backyard. The abstract beauties were then taped together to form rolie-polie communities. nice.

What are three words that best describe your artwork?

soft. domestic. warm.

What inspires you?

wildflowers on the sides of the freeway, a swatch of fabric, an accidental doodle while trying to make a pen work.

What is your goal in life?

live simply, be happy.

Name something you love, and why.

meeting good, genuine people. despite the piles of negativity and greed around us, i enjoy believing that people are inherently honest and wonderful if they are given the chance to be. there's nothing like human connection.

What makes you angry?

wanting to do and learn fifty different things, and only having enough time for five.

What was your favorite toy as a kid?

the speak and spell. creepy. and my plastic lizards.

What is your favorite toy now?

sharpies and thread.

What is your “dream” art project?

creating a life size, semi-functional soft home. felting the walls, stitching up furniture, and opening it up to all for free nap time.

What have you been listening too while you’ve been working on your art[recently]?

this might sound lame, but i've been really enjoying silence. i can hear the birdsongs mixing with the freeway outside of my window, and i've really fallen in love with it.

If you were a cocktail on a drink menu at a bar, what would your name be?

magicface.

If you could go back in time and talk to “8 year old YOU”, what would you say to her/him?

high-five. you're gonna be ok.

If you could collaborate with any other artist [living or dead], who would it be and why?

i'd love to work with niki de st phalle on one of her giant playground sculptures. the childlike imagery and colors bring so much joy to my insides. or friedensreich hunderwasser, for the simple joy of spending days doodling hills and houses while talking about breaking rules and window rights.

What is the best bit of advice that you have ever been given?

nothing good happens after midnight. thanks, dad.

If you had a chance to say one sentence for the whole world to hear, what would you say?

go outside, breathe the air, notice the details, value both silence and words

Hey bar keep, gimme another shot of MAGICFACE. On second thought, make it a double.

Well said my sweet friend. And thank you for partaking in this project and sharing a little bit about yourself and your creativity with us all. Snaps for Sarah, ya'll *SNAPS*. This panel is totally unlike any panel in the travo collabo series- this is the first time a non-paint-like medium [nails and thread] have been incorporated on work surface. Which is bad ass and about time! Don't be afraid to experiment with some craziness on her artists... she's a tough and sturdy girl, she can handle it. Once again, much love to Sarah, muah!

Ok, time for some math. Let's see, we started in San Francisco, up at the VERY tip top point of the city [North Beach] and we scooted on down to the VERY bottom of the state to San Diego. That puts us at [and i'm doing door-to-door calculations here... it's not including travel routes of the delivery men or postal service] 499.39 miles! Juuuuuust a smidgen under 500, not bad.

As you are reading this, the panel is being projected out by non other than the man himself, Forest Stearns of Oaklandish CA. Brush up on your Forest literature and eye candy here and BE. EXCITED. B-E EXCITED.

The launching of a *NEW* panel is taking place this week, more info and art coming soon to a blog near you.

peace,

ELROD

Panel #1-Paul Mendoza Nicholas, Campbell CA

2011-03-14T21:12:00.000-07:00

NOW WE'RE GETTIN' SOMEWHERE!

I'm so proud to present to you all the latest and the greatest on panel #1 that was laid down by one hell of talented artist, Paul Mendoza. Paul lives out in Campbell CA and his work is truly something to admire. Check out his work and add him on the facebooks here:

Paul Mendoza ART

Paul graced the panel with his signature slick and bold patterns that I love so much. Did you see his " ICONOCLAST/ B!shop SHAKUR" piece in his photo album? SWOON. I have had the pleasure and honor of working alongside [or rather "hanging" alongside] Paul at two venues- Artillery AG in La Mission, and PAK Gallery in SOMA. Which, by the way, are two sweet spots you need to check out, if you haven't already. Especially Artillery, those guys got it going on!!! Check out their website and swoop by one of their art openings- They throw a proper party fah sho.

Alright alright, now that we showed you the goods and promoted the homies, how about some more artist love? Enter the interview [GOOOOOOOOOOONG]:

My name is Paul Mendoza Nicholas a.k.a Slip2mikoo, a.k.a Kid Clutch, a.k.a Papong, a.k.a Juicy from Campbell, CA and I (try to) paint.

What is your earliest "artistic" memory?

When I was about 4 or 5 years old back home in the Phillippines: I'd use to watch my older brother, cousins and their friends draw all of these bad ass Transformers/Go Bots cartoon characters on the street with chalk, rocks and coal. I remember getting mad whenever it rained and washed all of their work away.

What are three words that describes your artwork?

RAW. INFECTIOUS. SOUL.

What inspires you?

INSPIRATION? My family has always been a constant so I always try to pay tribute to them whenever I can. but, my inspiration comes from everywhere. A single parent working multiple jobs to raise their young? That's inspiring, A blind person trudging along a busy city equipped with nothing more than a walking stick? That's hardcore.

What is your goal in life?

Man, These questions are DEEP! Goals? I don't know really, but maybe just to make my family, especially my Mama, proud and to keep moving forward until I realize my full creative potential, and make as much of a positive impact in the places I've been and with the people I meet.

Name something you love and why.

Halloween! it's a gateway to many of my favorite things. Fall, holidays, NBA season opens... Halloween is definitely underrated.

What makes you angry?

IGNORANCE & ARROGANCE. I'm getting pissed off just saying those words.

What was yoru favorite toy as a kid?

I remember playing with marbles a lot as a kid. I didn't have toys, but I remember loving marbles. That was my earliest hustle. I'd borrow two or three marbles from some of the kids playing and by the time it was time to go home, I'd end up with both pockets compeltely filled with marbles. Plus, I could always use them as projectiles for my slingshot.

What is your favorite toy now?

Now? I'm more of a collector I guess and I think I have a budding CD & DVD/BluRay hoarding problem. Help.

What is your 'dream" art project?

My life is my dream art project SON!

What have you been listening to while you've been working on your art [recently]?

My musically gifted bay area brothers: Wasted, KALDERA and One Over Eight.

If you were a cocktail on a drink menu at a bar, what would your name be?

Slip2miPoison?

If you could go back in time to "8 year old you", what would you tell her/him?

Buy Google stocks. Plenty of it.

If you could collaborate with any other artist [living or dead], who would it be and why?

Dead: Diego Rivera. Alive: My older brother, Jun Nicholas. I remember him doing some radical and original shit back in his adolescent years that would still be radical and original to this day! I don't see him half as much as I'd like to now and I'm still trying to chase his shadow [artisticly].

What is the best bit of advice that you have ever been given?

"Be Real" - Mom

If you had one chance to say one sentence for the whole world to hear, what would you say?

Stand for nothing, fall for everything AND strength in unity, not numbers. (That's still one sentence...)

Well, that may have been a run-on sentence, but I never got a passing grade in English, so I'll let it fly. What do you guys think? Pretty tasty shit, right [licks fingers like they got bbq on them], mmmmHMMMM.

So, from SF to Campbell, this little darlin' has traveled 53.17 miles and is now on her way to make one of the longest legs of her journey to Redlands down in SOCAL [woopwoop] to the doorstep of my friend Lindsey Chesus who crafts like no one's business. I am predicting some mixed media getting thrown on the panel, but who knows. You artists have been keeping me on my toes and I'm not sure what to expect actually... oooooh, I dig it!

Ok then, one more week or so for another update on Panel #1, but we should be getting updates from the other panels within a few days.

PLEASE STAND BY.

Peace,

ELROD

p.s- I literally just noticed the little music bar coming out of the bullet hole in the pharaoh's head, LOL I love little secrets like that!!! more more MORE!

Battle of the Sexies

2011-03-07T15:28:00.000-08:00

I mean Sexes. I mean art is sexy.

ROUND TWO!

This time, we're gonna get down with a little friendly competition, boys VS. girls style. 2 panels, one with all female artists, the other with all guys. The winning panel will be decided by YOU, the viewer and what do they win? Well, duh- the coveted collabo bragging rights!

Here is the line up!

Panel #4:

1. Ed He- San Francisco

2. P. Dilla- Roseville

3. Eddie Shiffer- El Centro

4. Kevin Sechelski- Houston

Panel #LADIESROCK [5]

1. Jen Oaks- Berkeley

2.J DUB- Moreno Valley

3. Erin Hamilton- Oakland

4. Corrin Duran- Covina

And who knows... your girl ELROD might even throw down on this one. I've been itching to get my hands on one of these panels!

Check back next week for the progress on this competition, it's gonna be legit.

Peace and Much Artists Love to You ALL

ELROD

Panel #1- Ryan Martinez, SF

2011-03-04T11:28:00.000-08:00

Daaaaaaang, slacker! Ryan Martinez FINALLY passed off the panel in the #1 spot to the next artist on the bill and we can FINALLY see what it's looking like... Hahaha Ok, Ok, I won't try and make him feel any worse about it. I mean, he did a pretty awesome job on it. Plus, I'm not even one to talk. I'm queen of the slackers so I guess it's only appropriate that he painted a glorious golden king on the panel- Check it!

http://www.illestratedvisions.com/

I've been an admirer of Ryan's work for a while because he's always hustlin' his art and doing sweet ass live painting gigs at clubs in the city. Here's the short list of some folks he's collaborated with already:

Fedde Le Grand

Laidback Luke

LA RIOTS

The Crystal Method

Snoop Dogg

Kaskade

Donald Glaude

DJ Dan

Doc Martin

Mark Farina

DJ Heather

Playboy

DJ Colette

Miguel Migs

Lisa Shaw

Julius Papp

The Martinez Brothers

Luckyiam from the Living Legends

DJ Swamp

VJ Vello Virkhaus

So, OF COURSE I had to ask him to get down on the project! Make sure you check out his website and follow his work because this guy is making moves and it'll be cool to see where his ambition and talents take him~

What is your earliest “artistic” memory?

Drawing my mom as she worked in her office and copying the backs of disney vhs covers to pass time, namely Mickey's Christmas Carol

What are three words that best describe your artwork?

music, nature, life

What inspires you to create?

Feeling my chest rattle as I walk into a bass heavy nightclub or music festival. watching smoke twist around in the sunlight. a beautiful woman.

What is your main goal in life?

To inspire and be smiling while i do it.

Name something you love, and why.

Electronic dance music. because it is universal and makes me move like a jabbawockee

What makes you angry?

Dumb mutha fuckas, and smart mutha fuckas who get shit twisted

What is your dream

project?

To be part of the dopest live art collab in Golden Gate park, while doing a live vj set on stage with BT and Thievery Coorporation, at Sunset... on DMT

What has been coming out of your speakers when you've been painting recently?

Dubstep, Glitch, and Electro. namely Skrillex, Pretty Lights, Pendulum and Rusko. BT is always a constant as well...

If you were a cocktail on a drink menu at a bar, what would your name be?

The Supernova, or Skinny Nova

If you could collaborate with any other artist [living or dead], who would it be and why?

Vello Virkhaus, concert visuals, vj. vsquaredlabs.com Ive actually already had the pleasure of working with this video genius. got to edit some of the original pink floyd concert footage in his studio for ultra music festival in miami! would love to mix my live painting/ digital illustration with his vj work at some of the biggest music events in north america...

What is the best bit of advice that you have ever been given?

Just keep doing whatever it is that you are doing...

If you had one chance to say one sentence for the whole world to hear, what would it be?

"I am IllestRated, Hear me ROAR!!!"

Right on homie, thanks for getting down with this project! NEXT on the list is a fella by the name of Paul Nicholas Mendoza. I've shown my art with his twice before and i always get great vibes from this cat. His work is fantastic, can't wait to show you more!

You'll be hearing from me next week for a few new updates and THE BEGINNING OF ROUND 2!!! Two new panels will be getting set out into circulation and 8 new artists will be lined up to do the dirty.

Thanks for being a part of this, artists AND spectators... I appreciate you all more thank you'll ever know.

Love and Respect,

ELROD