EVADE DESIGNS // 2010

MOVED!

2010-08-20T23:45:00.000-07:00

Come to the new site / blog. EVADE DESIGNS

SWEDISH TRAVELS / HEJ / LINA BIRD

2010-03-25T03:01:00.000-07:00

Great times in Scandinavia.

Hard pronunciations, creative atmospheres, expensive ass beers, super duper public transportation, friendly company, odd electrical outlets, walking, funny clothes, coffee gatherings, cramped spaces, and Lina Bird.

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Went to a premier for a campaign that Lina and Kristian art directed for Tiger of Sweden. High fashion people. Sometimes when you see creative work / concepts it shows you how small your creative juices really reach. Last night I felt like a grain of sand. So much great work in this world, and last night I got to see why Lina had gone through those sleepless nights and long days. Proud of her. That's all I can say for now as this is all still hush hush until next week.

Lina and Kristian's baby: THE NIGHT STORIES

(Click it! They even did the type, two thumbs up)

The worldwide release is on Monday the 29th. More soon.

Take care.

VT WEDDING / LITTLE FAMILY

2010-02-25T09:32:00.000-08:00

My sister Sarah Rose got hitched last weekend to Larry Goldwyn. Such a great little gathering of close family and good food. It was so good to see everyone even though it may have been brief. Also added some new family members! Two new brother-in laws, excited to grow that family tree.

Big congrats to Sarah and Larry and little twinkle toes baby moo moo. Love that little rascal, growing up fast.

Walking, throwing moves and breaking hearts: ELI

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Great to be back in BTV for one night and see a bunch of old friends that I rarely get to see. Puts the present into perspective for me, shows me how far all of us have come in this rat race.

JASON DUERR / PARLIAMENT

2010-02-09T11:13:00.000-08:00

JASON DUERR spoke this morning at a career tools breakfast. Good food and knowledgeable code minds met full force. Jason tag teams DROPKICK (personal gig) along with SANDSTROM here in Portland.

Always great hearing about a part of design, or something closely related that inspires and shakes things up. Jason was on web coding when you were in diapers and the dot com boom exploded back in the 90's. Just imagine building a website with 216 colors and no connection speed to be heard of all while looking amazing for a high paying client. Quite amazing. I hear stories about how companies were just throwing money at these people, who were all new to the game as well. On the fly gotta know what your talking about kinda stuff. Stressful.

It was great to hear the man speak and put it all out on the table for all to hear. Thanks again Jason and AIGA.

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Ben Carlson sends a creative company that I can literally see out of my office window.

PARLIAMENT

I'm gonna go pay these guys a visit, a real treat to see their so close.

Take care.

DENVER / MARRIAGE / BEATLES

2010-01-21T20:45:00.000-08:00

Taking off early tomorrow for a 4 day Denver trip. The other side of the Rockies, right before those Great Plains. Hopefully see some people I see daily as well as annually at the show. Curious how this Denver stuff will unfold as it's previous location (Las Vegas) is hard to beat when it comes to late nights and heavy gambling. I will snap a few photos.

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Large life choices are being made. My Sister Sarah is getting married next month. I know that it's been in the cards for a while with the engagement, but she really sprang on me with the "you better be here in three weeks cause I'm getting hitched" jazz. Small, perfect little event she planned in the also small state of Vermont. Really looking forward to seeing the little nephew and all the other people I call family. Congrats Larry, Sarah Rose and Little Eli. Happy days you little family.

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My friend Dan at No Hope sends me a sweet link to some infographics by Micheal Deal on The Beatles. Seen parts of this project around the interweb, but here are some details.

ABOUT:

These visualizations are part of an extensive study of the music of the Beatles. Many of the diagrams and charts are based on secondary sources, including but not limited to sales statistics, biographies, recording session notes, sheet music, and raw audio readings.

Not many bands that you can really do something like this with. Lots of data, info and songs. Amazing stuff.

Take care.

JACKSON WY / DAY 4 / TETON ART

2010-01-04T20:06:00.000-08:00

TETON ART LAB is a non-profit collaboration of artists in Jackson Hole. When my friend Ben told me about the view from the place and some of the action that was going on their I was immediately intrigued. Real nice building, real ideas, real cool prints and overall a really cool project for the less contemporary art scene in Jackson Hole.

After a day of hiking up some mountains and riding down we pushed over to the TETON ART LAB for some drinks, printing techniques, scribbles, photos all while taking some DANAVA through the ears.

Thanks so much for having us Ben, solid way to end the trip.

Take care.

JACKSON WY / DAY 3 / HOT SPRINGS

2009-12-29T13:05:00.000-08:00

Granite Hot Springs. 10 miles on a snow trail to access these natural 112 degree hot springs here in Wyoming. That is a long walk in cold weather, so we decided to rent a snowmobile for quicker travel. The sled got a little banged up and the extra $30 dollar insurance most definitely was passed on. Hopefully "Man Randy" at the snowmobile shop will see things our way, he was a little fired up.

The springs pool was created in 1933 and has been an attraction for even longer. I forgot my suit back in Portland, not thinking I would be swimming in the dead of winter. Jumped in with the under garments and I couldn't get over that warm and peaceful water. Somehow Levin's knew we were swimming and brought a pair, I'm convinced he carries them around on the daily. Magical place in the mountains.

GRANITE HOT SPRING PHOTOS

Take care.

JACKSON WY / DAY 2 / SKI TOWNER

2009-12-28T18:03:00.000-08:00

Single digit temperatures, cowboy hats, wild game warnings, Harrison Ford, one trashy bar, rest and relaxation = Jackson Wyoming.

Woke up this morning to a bright sunlight in my eyes, first I have seen since mid Idaho from the day prior. Peeking out the windows I notice that we a surrounded by mountains and hills that were well disguised in the dark arrival of last night. Snow King Resort is the first thing I notice from the porch. Snow here is falling way below par this year, but it's still available if your willing to throw $90 bucks for some icy turns. Were gonna take the lift tickets and chairlifts right out of the process and just do some hiking.

Not much to report other than a visit to the National Elk Refuge. Seriously big animals that run around these parts.

Big updates tomorrow.

Take care.

JACKSON WY / DAY 1 / NW DRIVING

2009-12-27T07:16:00.000-08:00

Big day yesterday. 14 plus hour drive from Portland Oregon to Jackson Wyoming. 794 miles in my little pickup. My legs are still cramped and I'm shorter in size, I can only imagine what Levins feels like today. Overall a great haul, almost one third to the east coast.

TRIP EVENTS:

1 dead Ipod
6 hour of sleep for Levins
0 for Steve Mc
3 coffee's
1 tin of chewing tobacco
1 chemical material bunker drive by
6,203 weird noises from the truck
1 big Ben Carlson hug
2 safe and sound travelers

TRIP PHOTOS:

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Daily post for this trip, so check back soon. Hope your holiday is going swell.

Take care.

2009 HOLIDAY SEASON / TRIP

2009-12-22T13:19:00.000-08:00

Look out Ben! Levin's and I are coming all the way from PDX. Lets hope for open clear roads and skies.

One thing we will not be leaving without taking a photo of: GRAND TETONS

I snapped a couple film photos my last time through Wyoming back in 2004 and they came out like shit. I'm more prepared this time around, with a memory card waiting for pixels.

I vividly remember the size of those peaks and the orange glow that was sitting on them from the sunset, biggest thing I had ever seen. Made me want to watch Jeremiah Johnson all over again and learn how to live off the land.

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Happy Holidays! Found a sticky note that displays my type of enthusiasm.

Sticky Screen is a sticky homepage for constant reminders. Kinda nice compared to having them plastered all over my screens edge.

Have a safe holiday and be well.

-Steve

HALEY / JACKSON HOLE

2009-11-24T16:30:00.001-08:00

My family dog passed away earlier this month. My pops is real bummed as well as the rest of us, but it bit him pretty good. Haley was a loyal little cracker jack, and she would bark you up and down, but she meant well. Protecting her nest and the people in it. I remember letting her out on cold Vermont mornings into 2 feet of snow when she stood maybe 10 inches and thinking how rough it was for her to do her business buried in snow. I wouldn't even dare put myself in those shoes.

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The holidays are right around the corner and I have a trip planned for Jackson Hole Wyoming to visit one of my favorite people, Ben Carlson. Camera, snowboard, sleeping bag, pen and pad, thoughts of home, gifts and 1600 miles.

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Holiday cards are going out, if anyone is interested send me your address:

steven@evadedesigns.com

I'll wish you a happy holidays with a print piece.

Take care and Happy Holidays.

CORNDOG / HERO / WCT

2009-11-17T21:12:00.000-08:00

It's been a busy couple weeks. Lot's of new work coming in at Generation Creative, which makes the clock tick fast. One of the newer jobs is a logo redesign for National Corndog Day. Projects like this put the fun of what I do into the forefront, can't wait to start on this tomorrow morning and bread that job golden brown.

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I'm a hero in Sweden! This shit freaked me out, watch the whole thing, even if you can't understand Swedish. Thanks Lina Bird.

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First day of riding is coming up later this week, stretching as you read this.

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Wine Country Thanksgiving is kicking off next week. Planning on skipping around taking grape photo shots of all the winery's I can make it to in the Willamette Valley. Hoping for a crisp sunny day.

Take care.

LAIKA TYPE / GRAPE CRU BLOG

2009-10-28T16:44:00.000-07:00

LAIKA from Michael Flückiger on Vimeo.

Type is getting more dynamic. Stuff like this makes me wonder how design and media will apply in the far future. Mind blowing.

Watch the video and visit the site.

From Change the Thought.

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Grape Cru launches the Grape Cru Blog. Monthly food pairings and industry related trips, conquests, events and success stories will be posted here.

As far as the recipes go, I try to create something simple so store trips and receipts are as short as possible.

Make sure to check back, next months dish is already lined up.

Take care.

THE BABE / PONZI VINEYARD

2009-10-20T12:03:00.000-07:00

A blast from the past. Nate sent a link to a site called THE SELVEDGE YARD.

ABOUT:

The Selvedge Yard is about all the things that interest me– a menswear product, presentation & branding guy with a passion for people, places things & ideas of enduring heritage, quality, authenticity & character. But I’m not all old school all the time– I appreciate innovation & technology in all things.

Take a spin through this site, seriously. Thanks to Jon Patrick for taking the time to bring us back in time, if only for a few moments.

My grandmother is a huge baseball fanatic, and that's putting it lightly. Every holiday when I visit we watch the 2004 ACLS games 3 -7 Red Sox versus the Yankees when the Sox came back from three down to win the Pennant and finally take the world series. That dropped the curse of the man above, BABE RUTH. Check out these pictures of the BABE off the field.

One of the greatest players to swing a bat.

NOT TO BE MISSED EITHER:

THE BIKERIDERS / DANNY LYON
REBEL ROUSERS / BOBBERS & STRIPES
JOHN DELOREON'S NERVES OF STEEL

Amazing.

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PONZI VINEYARDS was founded in 1970 in Oregon's Willamette Valley and is internationally acclaimed for producing some of the World's finest Pinot Noir, Pinot Gris, Pinot Blanc, Chardonnay and White Riesling.

I took a trip out there this past weekend to investigate, taste, shoot images and catch up on their grape techniques. A great time with good people, and the wine is spectacular. I was even really into their sweeter whites which is a rarity.

PHOTOS:

1 / 2 / 3 / 4

Much thanks to the Ponzi family for all the hard work.

Take care.

JURY DUTY CALLS / SOCIALISM

2009-10-13T08:22:00.000-07:00

There's only two things the United States asks you to provide for them. One is paying taxes, the other is jury duty. And if you don't make any money, you don't even have to pay taxes.

I have been pushing off a summons since summer and finally bucked up and threw myself into the system. 95% of court cases avoid trial, but for that 5% it's war. Lawyers duel, the judge shapes the trial and the jury decides the verdict. Heavy stuff.

I have been in a larger case, missing much needed to be done work, but this shit is not to be missed. I really love watching how our system operates and the work it takes day in and out to make a fair trial actually happen. Apparently the DA and the Defendants Lawyer thought I would decide fairly, a big deal when someones future is at stake.

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John Stewart brings to our attention that Sweden is crazy, sarcastically of course.

Video 1 / Video 2

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Small updates in steady flow, I am pushing the new site in this mold, in the meantime I posted:

EVADE DESIGNS

A few works up.

Take care.

BIKE TYPE / DAILY DROP CAP

2009-10-01T14:28:00.000-07:00

BIKE TYPE is a two wheeled steed website dedicated to anything bike related, but it has a ton of bike graphic emblems, bike type and bike related company history for graphic geeks.

If you have some cash to spare, here are a few cool limited edition cycling posters available for purchase. Lance is back.

I want to see some of this down Hawthorne. Fixed gear has a whole new meaning, it's quite amazing what people are capable of.

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DAILY DROP CAP - You better believe I'm adding this to the daily bookmarks.

Take care.

PHOTOSHOOT / INSURANCE

2009-09-22T21:12:00.000-07:00

JARED SOUNEY takes some great photos for GRAPE CRU this past weekend. One of the few shoots going on the next few months as we prepare a bank of imagery. JARED posted some highlights on his website, here.

Thanks so much to JARED and his talents, and to all the people who showed for wine in the park.

Tomorrow the Flaming Lips are shooting a video of a naked bike ride in this same park. Hop on you two wheeler with no hands and get to Mount Tabor, no need for your shorts.

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Health insurance is tough business, lets help these executive richers keep some of the booty they have plundered for years. These actors agree wholeheartedly.

Give Congress a call if you agree, I mean if you don't. Congress - (202)224-3121.

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Currently Working:

Trade Show
Art
Websites (Personal / Commercial)
Christmas gifts (yes already)
Identities (juggling)

Lack of posts result. Busy is not bad though, it's just busy.

Take care.

GRAPE CRU / BOTTLED / CRETE

2009-09-08T21:47:00.000-07:00

GRAPE CRU! Soft launch! I am getting files and legal jazz organized before the full launch. It will be a bit before the store doors open but I wanted to share.

GRAPE CRU is an online wine store. Modern upscale approach with a inside-out pockets mindset. Art / Music / Dining / Craft collaborations will be just a few of the extra pieces to round out the GRAPE CRU community.

Planting the seed. More soon, stay posted.

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Water is scary! The TAPPED trailer. It's hard to even imagine not having clean drinkable water one day. I down a gallon at work everyday, from the tap from now on that is.

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Ryan Crete sends a bloody banger of himself from "one islan brah". Shark or reef he didn't say, I think it was a flip flop malfunction. Ryan is a practicing medical man of sorts, so don't let your friends pull out needles, give you drugs and close your gaping wounds without proper oversee.

Take care.

TIMBERS / DANA CARMEL

2009-09-05T16:43:00.000-07:00

PORTLAND TIMBERS. If your looking for a fantastic time in Portland, definitely make your way to PGE park and join the Timber Army. People take it seriously, some die hard fans that get real rowdy. Good to be in the thick of that devotion sometimes.

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DANA CARMEL writes an email to request some mouse clicking. She happens to go right up the priority list due to the fact that she is dating one of the family. Great tunes as well, make sure to check out the song Lets go to Bed. One of my favorites.

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With the long weekend in full effect, we are trying to get ready for hibernation. Some large projects about to burst their head over the completion horizon. More later.

Take care.

MOTOR BIKE / TRILLIUM

2009-08-31T20:32:00.000-07:00

THE UNIVERSE is a crazy place. Go to the link and get your knowledge melon split into fractions. Mind blowing how years and years of research and the little that we actually know about this place we call home. Plus it's free to watch.

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Static on the Brain gets tubular.

THE SURF REPORT

I'm the man with the waterproof matches" - Trip Montgomery

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Trillium Lake Fishing Trip FLICKR set from this last weekend. Not even a bite for this poor sap.

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MOTORBIKE purchase from last week. 1981 Yamaha Exciter. Took it out yesterday for an illegal spin around the block. Perfect fit for the perfect price. If anyone in Portland know of a motorcycle salvage yard, let me know. Need a few odds and ends.

Take care.

MILEPOST 5 / FOOZE BALL / MFNW

2009-08-28T14:55:00.000-07:00

MILEPOST 5 hosted the Manor of Art last weekend. Caught the tail end of 100 plus artists. The place used to be a retirement home of some sorts, lots of old awkward nooks and rooms. Some really cool installations and ideas, overall a great idea by Milepost 5.

Snapped some images with my phone, check out the Flickr gallery. Quality = Not top notch, bare with me.

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THE OFFICE in PDX may have closed their storefront on Alberta, but they are keeping their store going in the interweb world. They celebrated their 4th Anniversary with a party at SANDBOX STUDIO. Wild photography for big names. Industrial ceiling cranes for shooting large large objects. Photography is a science, blows me away.

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MUSIC FEST NORTHWEST is coming up next month. A few bands I will be seeing for sure:

1) Sunny Day Real Estate
2) Explosions in the Sky
3) The Lonely H
4) Saviours
5) Explode into Colors

Lets hope the overlapping is minimal.

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Hunting and gathering this weekend on a lake in the woods. Fishing for my dinner, lets hope their biting or I'm going hungry.

Take care.

POLITICAL PROMISES / CAPE COD

2009-08-21T03:54:00.000-07:00

AATTA-BOY SEPTIC has the right idea. Never forget that humor or company. Sold.

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LEVEL MAG / SOUNEY MEDIA put on a great informational video on HUFNAGEL CYCLES. Check out the video here.

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A designer from NYC gets accused of a violent crime. Cat killin. Not sure if Sean Lynde is guilty, but he claims his innocence. Read more here.

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A Flickr roll of the latest McDonald family get together on Cape Cod. Muggy east coast beach bummin. Didn't catch a fish, but read a book. Win some, lose some.

Take care.

CAPE COD / ELI JOHN / HELLOVON

2009-08-18T13:34:00.000-07:00

Photographs with the family / beach have been coming along well. A big goal for this trip was to dial in my camera and capture some moments. The one above is a 1 year old's monumental discovery of where land and sea meet. My nephew Eli (above) was a beaching first timer and this shot wraps up almost all his emotions for the day.

I will be posting a full Flickr soon.

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HELLOVON is a huge inspiration of mine for a number of reasons. He posts a video of his new LA show SEMBLANCE which drops September 19th. Wish I was south for some jaw dropping next month.

Take care.

PRINTERS FAIR / PACKING

2009-08-12T19:13:00.000-07:00

The LETTERPRESS PRINTERS FAIR opened it's doors last Saturday. Lots of local vendors, type nerds, cool prints, typesetters, block prints, and smiles. Purchases by Jared and Nate (above left) gave a good handful walking out of the place, those are lead typesets. Heavy.

I met this guy working at the CC STERN TYPE FOUNDRY who gave me a quick download about his foundry that's coming soon to the Portland area. Heavy metal you can hang your hat on is right, the guy has 20 tons of AB + C's. I put my email on his list immediately. Check them packing all the goodness up for the move on their site.

Its amazing all those folks come out and celebrate their own creative printing talents, knowledge, and what makes them tick. Shit, most of the people in that venue print to survive. I did that more than once myself, tough competitive work.

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Packing up for summer vacation. Basically I'm stuffing my supplies into the smallest bag I can find, and of course trying to minimizing my items. Airlines are tightening up financially, makes me wish I was driving, all that leg room and fresh air. Instead it's a cramp economy middle seat red eye to Boston. I always have a few beers on the red eye to calm the flying nerves, but it always turns into me feeling like a complete tired ass when I arrive. Going to try to sleep, but I say that every time.

BOSTON for a quick visit then to CAPE COD.

Downing a few books:

The Road - Cormac McCarthy (Before the film comes out)
The Art of Dramatic Writing - Lajos Egri (so I can one day write films)

Take care.

JOHNNY MAC / CLAE / SHAKE

2009-08-11T16:37:00.000-07:00

CLAE has some real nice shoes and I'm in the market. Retail and online price is upwards off $100, but if you scrounge on ebay you can score your size for almost half. Black is gonna be just about right for me, keep those things clean as long as possible.

Or maybe a color venture such as: 1 / 2

Either way I like the clean and modern skateshoe-ish approach.

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My brother John has been playing out at some open mics in San Francisco. He has really been getting into recording and playing guitar over the past few years so we were really proud when he sent us this link. In his words:

hey bro!

wanted to send you this link to the hotel utah site.

http://theutah.org/artist/johnmcdonald

They hold the most popular open mike in the city and they record every performance which is cool. here are couple song's I played there. The recording on "Speeding" got all fucked up in the beginning, but clears up after bout 30secs. I gotta work tonight and tomorrow but I'm gonna call you sunday so we can talk about vacation! Can't wait!

-johnny

The second song is about John and I driving across country together back in 2003, hits home. Thanks for sending John, see you soon.

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Keeping my mind out of the gutter on this one, but seriously. It's More like, do you wan't to stand there jack hammering your arms in a near sexual position.

The shake weight.

Take care.

NIDECKER / TYPERADIO

2009-08-05T16:04:00.000-07:00

The Nidecker / Core 77 contest results came through today. I was able to get a board together just in time to compete with the globe. I really had fun pushing this graphic just by letting it be itself. I really put in no outside snowboard culture, input or selling points into the mix, just a few inspirational ideas flushed out and mashed together. With a basic CMYK build and a few cool iconic doodles later, I pushed it into the critique station. For a larger image click HERE.

Check out the competition on CORE 77. One that stuck out to us: Christopher DeLorenzo

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TYPERADIO is a sweet little internet radio station on type / design. It's cool how the design community shares information / stories / blogs / tricks of the trade and such. They spill all their secrets while I reach out with my ears and thoughts. Well not exactly.

A few thick accents on there, but it's cool to learn on how international designers / geeks go about things on the day to day.

Give a listen.

Take care.

ORGANIZATION / ARON JANCSO

2009-08-03T18:52:00.000-07:00

In the process of moving you find items that slip onto the back burners of your memory. This block print above was from one of my favorite college courses, print production. Going through old items I stumbled upon it. I remember being introduced to the large world of print back in early 2001 through my technical schools field trip to KBA back in Williston Vermont. Walking next to an offset printer that was half the size of a football field really kicked me into the realization on how small my little graphic world really was. Note to self, more hands on printing.

The above was for a wine label, Real wine. Pretty straight forward concept. Inspired by this REAL company, more than sure.

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ARON JANCSO is from Hungary. He is a type addict and his favorite letter is "G".

Keep it up Aron. Type like this gets my wheels turning.

Take care.

DESCHUTES RIVER / SAFE FARMING

2009-07-28T13:18:00.000-07:00

Been a week since last post, I'm still getting everything together at the new place, trying to enjoy this summer and also starting a new business venture (more soon). Basically busy.

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I went on a Eastern Oregon adventure and made my way to Maupin Oregon for a one night river raft / camp out. My left leg is real sore and if you take a peak at these pictures you'll understand why. I'll be keeping all limbs inside the raft next go round.

Pictures: 1 / 2

The high desert of Oregon is a wild west place. Rolling hills, rattlers, dry grass, volcanic rock and not a tree in sight. Thanks to all that invited me and Manny for keeping me alive on the river.

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My sister has been participating in some wholesome causes lately and sent me a petition to S top Inhuman Animal Farming. I agreed with her cause and got excited when I found out who the petition was heading for, Mr. Obama. Now I'm sure this is one of the last things on a long list being put in front him on a certain day by an associate of sorts, but I'm glad to be part of a cause that straightens up some farming acts. Not all farms are similar to the old ones I've seen in Vermont, I've seen some gnarly stuff just driving out west that makes you think twice about machined animal product. Not to mention that Fast Food Nation movie.

Way to go Sarah, I'm glad you have a stable head on those shoulders.

If you feel similar, sign up above.

Take care.

POWER COUPLE / VIDEOGRASS / HOME OWN

2009-07-20T18:50:00.000-07:00

My co-worker and knowledgeable friend Andy Love is off in Maine getting married. Congratulations to both you and Carrie and may you have many happy days. The office is eerily empty this week at Generation.

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And to blab more about Andy, I have been playing his bands new album all day today and I love it more and more with each listen. SUMMER ONO, great band name for this time of year.

Another summer band I have been keen to are THE DODOS who are coming to PDX in October. See you there. These dudes whoop a percussion, key and string ass. Good energy. They actually made a song for Ashley called ASHLEY. Makes me think of her every time.

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VIDEOGRASS has a premier tonight here in Portland at the ACE HOTEL. Might bike down and check it out tonight. See you there.

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Nate Betteker closes on his fucking house! Cheers and toasts tonight. Thanks for letting me crash Nate.

Take care.

MOVING / CLONE THIS

2009-07-14T21:55:00.000-07:00

Busy, life and such. Moving but not settled, actually stored up in my friends garage. Homeless for the time being, really not that bad once you find your dailys in the mess of the move.

I will be posting more when settled, hopefully as soon as Saturday.

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A clip of a throw in board submission above. Theme = human development.

Take care.

2009 TYPE / BIKRAM YOGA

2009-06-30T21:07:00.000-07:00

THE BEST FIRST HALF OF 2009 at LETTERCULT. Really promising year already. Click, scroll and be dazzled.

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BIKRAM YOGA. I never thought I would ever pay to, let alone sit in a 105 degree room for 90 minutes while preforming a flying tortoise. I was talked into a cheap monthly agreement and ended up trying this newer form of relaxation. I'm not a complete believer, but I did almost float out of the place in a more relaxed state of mind and I think that's worth a few bucks. Watching peoples reactions when I talk about it alone is worth the money.

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Tim Bro is on a global domination tour with his girlfriend Taylor. He posts a blog about his happenings / adventures. Tim, we wish you and Taylor safe travels. Update often! Creep on Tim's whereabouts HERE.

Take care.

RENT / JAMIE MIDDLETON

2009-06-23T17:47:00.000-07:00

RENT the Broadway show came through Portland and I was lucky enough to catch the show. Glad I read the plot before diving head first. The singing was high, crowds were loud, all making it a bit hard to grasp off dialog alone. I am amazed on the production of these Broadway shows. Live band, perfect choreography and acting / singing all coming together with stage hands and such, holy shit. Actors in today's big films get a break every scene, these performers just go and go for a whole 2 hours straight. Training and rigorous practice is the only explanation. Overall a real inspirational and informative experience. Highly recommended.

It was cool to see so many younger folks at the show as well. I know I have found a new appreciation for theater.

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JAMIE MIDDLETON goes live. We bartered, and the deal came down to creating a website for a painting. Good deal on both are ends I believe. I hope the web presence brings some sales and gigs along Jamie.

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ALICE IN WONDERLAND due out March 2010. A little early on the ball with this one, but look at those images. Freaking freaky Tim Burton film. I can already taste my popcorn and sour patch kids.

Take care.

CANON REBEL XS / DOCK SIDER

2009-06-10T16:52:00.000-07:00

Picked up a new camera today. Really excited to play around with it, a large upgrade from previous point and shoots. 10.1 MP and I'll use every pixel. I was looking at starter SLR kits and it was between the Canon above and a Nikon D60. Craigslist is always a bit of a scare with larger purchases, but when the suns out make hay. Screaming deal.

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Checking out a OREGON BEAVERS game tomorrow. First timer and kind of ashamed of that fact. I used to live right near the ballpark and now that I don't.....

Well you get it.

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Stopped by HOLDEN OUTERWEAR today for a quick Nate pickup. Grabbed lunch to celebrate the new image taker. Cool gig that's going on over there, I have to give it to Mike and Scott. Spectacular location for an office. Pearl district = Needs more random wanderings and happy hour sit ins in the near future. Went to the Dock Sider for lunch, quite the history over there. Check it out, scandalous.

Take care.

MASTER BARBER / FOR SALE

2009-06-05T10:35:00.000-07:00

The above image is the identity of BART GARMON's barber shop here in Portland. I have never been personally but I have a hair farming roommate that highly recommends. Master barber is a tier in the hair industry that sounds tough to reach. I guess everyone from his grandfather down is a barber including brothers and such. I wonder how clean cut everyone is at their family reunions. Bart is located on 518 SE Morrison if you need a blade shave or a quick trim. (Thanks kyle)

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The Ben Rose Home from Ferris Buellers Day Off is for sale. Sold.

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Columbia Distributing employees requested a Shepard Fairy inspired poster for a new champagne promotion there pushing internally. I was handed an image of the president over there and I pushed back with this. I guess the reaction had some rolling on the floor, I would smile if someone vectored up my mug as well. (Thanks Ashley)

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Quite busy the past few days, and the upcoming week is looking more than booked. Gotta push it all out of the way for when my Dad (Big Steve) comes to town next weekend. Call the local authorities.

Take care.

MT SAINT HELENS / DDC

2009-05-25T16:54:00.000-07:00

MOUNT SAINT HELENS.

There used to be a top on it, then it blew seventeen miles north and caused the largest landslide known to man. No big deal right? I took this photo above from where vulcanologist David A Johnston stood when the blast happened, his body was never found. His last transmission to Vancouver Washington:

"Vancouver! Vancouver! This is it!

...and it was.

Harry Randall Truman, a WW I veteran and stubborn Spirit Lake Lodge owner refused to leave his peaceful home when evacuation for the volcano was a do or die situation, he was buried with his lodge on May 18th 1980.

Amazing stuff. So many people effected by elements far below the soil. The earth is a living being sometimes forcing me to remember how small I really am.

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One of my all time favorite designers AARON DRAPLIN is having a solo ART SHOW at THE OFFICE on Alberta in PDX. You can bet your bottom dollar I will be purchasing one of these, a whole swarm of inspiration in there.

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Fellow designer / east coast friend APOLLO BEY will be visiting this weekend from Jersey. Planning out graphical inspirational PDX activities along with cheap eats. Wicked.

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Happy Memorial Day everyone. I am thinking of my Grandfather and staying very thankful today.

Take care.

LOOONG WEEKEND / TENNIS

2009-05-22T12:23:00.001-07:00

I learned a while back that I need to focus on certain activities that I have already picked up and dial them in. Maybe playing the bass guitar again without sucking, or creating more time for artwork, or just try picking up my skateboard without feeling like I was gonna break an ankle. I don't like to feel stretched thin like a drum over a whole bunch of half wrapped goals. I'm also a fan of the jack of all trades but I just don't feel like I fit that mold, so I try and prioritize my time as I see fit.

And right fucking now extra time = TENNIS!

I can't tell you what the brand new attraction totally is just yet, but man, that game is fun.

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The new racquet I am going to purchase for maximum serve leverage for a guy of my stature.

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Wesley Yendrys got some serious talent for a seventeen year old.

He posts about how a design studio in São Paulo - PS.2 created a set of type geek memory cards. This is going under the "things I need to purchase" folder. I love that game.

Thanks Nate.

Take Care

ELEVATED PRESS / BORIS BONEV

2009-05-15T10:52:00.000-07:00

ELEVATED PRESS goes live, and all the hard work was well worth it. It was just an idea late last year, now it a living breathing system. Identity all the way down, real fun project.

Thanks to Adam + Heather for thinking of me and Dan for the code smoothing.

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BORIS BONEV does some type work / study / experiments. Click through, capturing stuff.

Take Care.

BEAT YO / BIZNESS

2009-05-11T16:01:00.000-07:00

Brooke snaps and writes up an article about how to carry your board, I stand and look stupid. Now that's the way you knock out a write up. Sometimes you just gotta pick apart the little things.

Check it out HERE. Be sure to check out the Todd Richards / Timbro articles as well, it always adds smiles to the day.

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Bizness cards brought to a whole other dimension. This guy goes nuts on quality, bit over board for my taste. Keepin it simple has a lot of advantages, this dude says that's "crap".

To each his own. (found on Iso50.com)

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Eric Carl is a real nice guy for sharing the book World of Logotypes. This book is absolutely amazing, Eric scanned and polished everything so you and I could cruise through in awe. Download it from his BLOG. Whoa, thanks.

Take Care.

TRINCHERO / HORSE SHOES

2009-05-09T15:08:00.000-07:00

Grapes, history and science. Amazing how some people are born into a passion. I got to meet wine maker Mario Monticelli from Trinchero in Napa Valley. We had a dinner paired with different wines that he has created over the years. It was inspirational to hear him talk about how he paints flavors together and creates something minimal yet very fufilling. It really is a detailed art form. It's wild that he creates for different senses (taste and smell) while my own work is strictly almost always visual. Then I thought about design creating on a more multi sense plateau, wierd stuff.

Thanks again to the Columbia Distribution Crew for the Invite, Mario at Trinchero and Chef Ben at Columbia Edgewater for the seriously insane menu he provided.

The most rad thing about the whole experience was being told about the food and wine from both the creators, and watching them tell you about all the hard work, time and love that went into their final solutions.

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The Laggner boys put some horseshoe pits in my back yard today, back stops, sand, the whole deal. Form and technique is what I'll start with, ego bruising is how I'll finish. Those two can throw man.

I typed in horse shoe and got this guy. Put up your dukes.

USA FREEHAND COMPETITION / BRIDGETOWN

2009-05-06T18:01:00.000-07:00

The USA FREEHAND COMPETITION took place last Friday at THE NIGHTLIGHT. Base for the whole concept grew off someone taking me to the hole over my shit freehand drawing of the USA (top left hippo thinger), so I handed the pad and pen over to my table mates. I did some measuring and scaling and the winner is:

NATE BETTECKER!

This dude even started states and look at that Alaska (top right), maybe to much time in the car or just to much time in general, who knows. Congrats Nate, I promised a sixer and it will be delivered.

I think we all lost here actually, lets learn the lay of our land a bit better people. Much thanks to the DDC for creating the canvas for us pad pushers. Order some up: FIELD NOTES

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BRIDGETOWN PRINTING has been rather nice to me the past few days. I got a free tour, lunch and a really cool contact over there on Swan Island. Designer / Printer relationships = hand in hand. Communication.

They offered an Adobe CS4 event today at the Portland Art Museum which I attended. Information flying fast in heavy doses, it's amazing how many ways you can skin a problem.

Thanks again Tonia.

SEB LESTER / KEEP CALM

2009-04-30T16:48:00.000-07:00

Only a slice of a fraction from the amazing prints from SEB LESTER at KEEP CALM GALLERY. If I had some money to burn and kick, this would be on it's way to Portland.

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Taylor Brubaker updates. Dig around and find stuff. 10 points if you know the name of that transmission sign on the opening page.

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Take Care.

RAY SISON / VIDEOS

2009-04-27T18:53:00.000-07:00

RAY SISON does some real nice work in the type department. I have been browsing inspiration / concepts for some spec work in the wine department these days. Flushing a first round soon.

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30 Ways to Die of Electrocution. A little morbid but these illustrations are great. Click through.

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Vincent from ISENSEVEN creates an amazing video of some of the times we have here in Portland. Colors and tunes drizzled over some PDX in April. High quality work. Brenden pulls this together from the audio end of things. Check it out.

Take Care.

BOARDIN / ANTICS

2009-04-24T14:17:00.001-07:00

Not exactly sure where this image originated but I liked it well enough to put up. Box in a box, within another box. Box it up, good to go.

Brooke Geery documents last weekends events. The recent weekends have been packed full of play time. Really good spring thus far but I need to get focused and put some work in, all in due time.

BRENDEN JOHN plays this Saturday at DUKES LANDING. See you there. Thumbs up to LEVINS for the promotional poster. Not to be missed.

Take Care.

BOSTON BRUINS / JASON THIELKE

2009-04-20T16:09:00.000-07:00

The BOSTON BRUINS are in a heated long rivalry series with the MONTREAL CANADIANS. Growing up in the middle of these two hockey giants I soaked in some of the undying passion for the sport. Being from Mass I always stuck with the state side Bruin fan base, but I had a few friends that went north to Montreal. I hope they are all holding back tears as we close in for the kill. Go Bruins!

JASON THIELKE has some flowing yet streamlined art drawings that caught my eye. Cool works and a cool site scroll when going through his work.

Take Care.

FREEMAN / FIND YOUR LUGGAGE

2009-04-16T13:10:00.000-07:00

FREEMAN gets clean and simple. Based out of Montana they create hand built steel folding bikes that fit into well crafted bags. Overall the presentation is amazing and if it were not for the hefty price tag I might have been on one of these today instead of my current steed. Imagine riding this green machine (above) to your nearest airport, disassemble, fly to a far away land, reassemble, then peddle to your nearest hostel.

And if all goes a rye and you can't find your biked luggage at your final destination then check here: IS THIS YOUR LUGGAGE. This guy might have found it, photographed it and all it's contents.

Take Care.

B-DAY THANKS / THE OFFICE PDX

2009-04-09T18:07:00.000-07:00

Brooke Geery turned a year older and we celebrated around the ramp. Thanks for for putting this video together Brooke. Thanks Nate for all the sweet eats and all others that came together to share a nice day in my backyard. Oh, and Levins for that fantastic photo / gift that now hangs in my bathroom, amazing.

---------

I went to the OFFICE yesterday to see Mike Klein from ADIDAS ORIGINALS and BRIAN (misplaced the last name) from RUMBLEFISH speak. Both discussed breaking into the design industry for entry level designers, what they look for in a creative and how they deal with the day to day office politics. Lots of students hearing about how it really goes down in this competitive industry. Real blunt and inspirational.

Buy from the OFFICE and support a great local passionate dedicated business.

Be well and come skate at my place.

FOOD PREP / RAMP FINAL

2009-04-08T12:22:00.000-07:00

Summer is upon us and I am really excited to get outside and soak up some vitamin D.

Above is a contraption I would hang in my kitchen any day. Bamboo Appetito.

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In seventh grade I have wanted to build a mini ramp. I hassled my Dad for years to build one of these suckers in the garage, and all my Dad saw was lumber costs and lawsuits. Well fourteen years later I finally got my wish. Shelled out some money and placed a nice smooth mellow mini right in my backyard. If you want to skate near some barbwire give me a shout at steven@evadedesigns.com.

Brooke (above) gets some last weekend, and Jared captures. Transmission dude gives a smiling approval.

Take Care.

JUSTINE LAI / LAST NIGHT

2009-04-01T16:25:00.000-07:00

JUSTINE LAI is a painter that currently lives in Oakland. Provocative paintings of herself in bed with historical US Presidents. I really didn't know how to react at first, I enjoy her technique but I just couldn't understand the approach. I dug a bit deeper and the explanations behind her works:

In Join Or Die, I paint myself having sex with the Presidents of the United States in chronological order. I am interested in humanizing and demythologizing the Presidents by addressing their public legacies and private lives. The presidency itself is a seemingly immortal and impenetrable institution; by inserting myself in its timeline, I attempt to locate something intimate and mortal. I use this intimacy to subvert authority, but it demands that I make myself vulnerable along with the Presidents. A power lies in rendering these patriarchal figures the possible object of shame, ridicule and desire, but it is a power that is constantly negotiated.

I approach the spectacle of sex and politics with a certain playfulness. It would be easy to let the images slide into territory that's strictly pornographic—the lurid and hardcore, the predictably "controversial." One could also imagine a series preoccupied with wearing its "Fuck the Man" symbolism on its sleeve. But I wish to move beyond these things and make something playful and tender and maybe a little ambiguous, but exuberantly so. This, I feel, is the most humanizing act I can do.

-----------

On a more serious note, THINGS I did last night.

Thanks for the laugh Bobby over at Kitsun Noir.

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If your hungry and in Portland check out BELLY TIMBER. Seriously good restaurant in a house operation on Hawthorne. Half size entree choices are amazingly rare when dining fine. Service was beyond informed and friendly. Check it out.

Take Care.

DUMPSTER USE / STEELWOOL

2009-03-29T15:21:00.001-07:00

A creative way to recycle garbage dumpsters. I never knew they could produce such fun environments. Good thinking.

Working on a new identity project for a friend. Can't spill yet but it's streamlined with the biking world. Doing some initial conceptualizing and research and was pointed to STEELWOOL BIKE CO.

Being a newer member of the bike community here in Portland, I can safely say it's the most fun form of transportation I own. Not because you get soaked or cars scream by you at 50 mph, because it's efficient, environmentally friendly and just plain good for you. I save myself almost 60 dollars a month just for pushing the peddles up and down.

Take Care.

BILLY MARKS / LEM VILLEMIN

2009-03-28T03:44:00.000-07:00

THE BERRICS. Berra and Koston = Brilliant. Business as usual.

Is it that easy? Lem makes it look like taking steps.

The ramp is in progress, getting excited.

Take Care.

WTWTA / FAMILY DINNER

2009-03-25T15:22:00.000-07:00

The official trailer for WHERE THE WILD THINGS ARE. I remember reading this book over and over, let's hope that Spike really diggs his nails into this one and brings out this classic book onto screen in good fashion. It's hard to tell from the trailer for me. See you there.

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Nate is the host among hosts, and he started a weekly gathering of folks from around town. Friends, food and laughs are a must and there is also a weekly theme. Last week was soul food and I about didn't fit out the door when I left. This week we are hosting at my place on 17th and Brooklyn. Theme is Breakfast, Breakfast for dinner or Brinner if you will. PJ's are more than decent attire for this occasion, purely just to be cozy and have less work to do when you arrive home after a few bloodies.

Come over for PORTLAND FAMILY DINNER!

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Our thoughts are with Brenden today. A spleen rupturing is tough on any person. I even watched him drink beer the whole next day barely able to laugh, but hanging in there tough. Oh yeah two broken ribs too, ouch.

Get well man, were thinking of you.

DETROIT REAL ESTATE / MOISES SAMAN

2009-03-20T10:15:00.000-07:00

MOISES SAMAN is a photographer based out of New York.

From his site:

Moises Saman, born in Lima(Peru) in 1974, grew up in Barcelona(Spain) until his late teenage years, then moving to the United States to attend California State University, Fullerton. Shortly after graduating with a degree in Communications Moises moved to New York and became a Staff Photographer at New York Newsday from 2000-07.

Since 2001 Moises has concentrated on covering the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, the wars in Afghanistan and Iraq, as well as projects in Pakistan, Nepal, Haiti, Lebanon, El Salvador, and Cuba.

Absolutely powerful imagery in my favorite photo medium, black and white. Do NOT miss this guy, I clicked through for almost an hour just in complete awe. Be thankful that we live in such a prosperous land. Grounding stuff.

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If your looking to buy some real estate and have a few hundred in the bank, well you can buy a new home. No guarantees on working plumbing or heat but houses in Detroit are selling for as little as $1. My co-worker didn't believe what he was hearing so we checked it out and, it's all true. No hang ups, just a bad area in an unlucky part of town. Some people have started to buy up a lot of these homes and try to build small art community's.

Check out: POWER HOUSE PROJECT

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I see this mug almost everyday at my house, that's cause he pays half the rent. Yobeat capitalizes on a good lookin man. That snow looks good too.

Take Care.

BRENDEN JOHN / TOKO

2009-03-18T15:02:00.000-07:00

Oddly enough it's a beautiful day here in Portland. Spring is in the air and the Happy Hours coming alive. I will be stepping three floors down to Clark Lewis for a cold one on a nice day.

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BRENDEN JOHN is playing a show tonight at Kelly's Olympian. For all you east coast Portland kids, get up and get to it. I have a good feeling about this one. A few new band mates will be appearing as well.

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TOKO. New works (for me) and an interesting way to present web design, right on screen. Nice touch. Dig around. A cool Q + A on the ABOUT page.

Also check out his blog ENVIRONMENTAL.

Take Care.

SALEM / WILLAMETTE VALLEY VINEYARDS

2009-03-16T17:12:00.000-07:00

Made a small trip down to SALEM Oregon this past weekend to see the capital among other things. Rose Standing had prepared some Cornish game hens for Saturdays dinner, Ashley and I were more than eager to visit for that sole purpose. Before dinner we stopped at Ashley's old place of employment, WILLAMETTE VALLEY VINYARDS. We took a small tour, learned, tasted and made a few small purchases. Really cool place if your looking to taste some wine or get out and back in to Portland on a schedule. More pictures to come.

Much thanks to the Standings for having me. I have never sat so long at the dinner table after enjoying a good meal. History, laughs and good times all around.

-------

If you believe in what you see
Then I have seen heaven lay before me
I have seen the clouds in all their beauty
Like a raging see that floats above me
I have seen the trees when not
A whisper was passing through their leaves
I have seen each flowers heart and soul
Not one color is the same
Even in misery no one has a flower to blame
I have seen the blue
That only speaks what's true
Of innocence and shame
Of all the people of all their games
I have seen the gold in all it's
Glory it never grows old
I have seen the water that
supports the earth like it's daughter
The combination of all things
In, out, and above the outcome
Will always be the same, Love.

-Ashley Blair Standing

The poem above was published back in 1994 when Ashley was 10 years old in Admist the Splendor. I was really impressed. Quite deep for such a young age.

-------

On a working note, I have been working alot on Jones Soda's new smart drink project GABA. I'm gonna have to put this stuff to the test, I could have used a can today.

Take Care.

RUBBER JOHNNY / POMPEII

2009-03-10T16:25:00.001-07:00

Rubber Johnny is a eerie character in an APHEX TWIN video. Not sure how the concept was developed or how they make that creepy head move like that, but I watched from beginning to end. I'm fascinated with sounds in films, not just being visually entertained but having the sound / noises melding to create a solid feel or mood. This one is has high intensity all over it.

Now to bring it back a few years, PINK FLOYD in Pompeii. Let's ship several techs, our gear and 50 sheets of LSD to a amphitheater in Italy, then record half our album in front of no audience. Pink Floyd impresses me because they use the same instruments as every other band but create such a dynamic sound, it's just great music.

Listen. Take Care.

ENTERTAINED / CUT AND PASTE

2009-03-10T08:12:00.000-07:00

I went to the IMAX and witnessed the new WATCHMEN movie. I was really impressed with the storyline and character developing from the early 1900's. I was also really surprised by the amount on gore shown for a blockbuster, another level but necessary in my eyes. Maybe it's my aging ears, but wow that shit is loud. My popcorn spills at every suspenseful burst.

Cut and Paste went off without a hitch. Great event for anyone in the creative field and people looking for solutions under pressure. One of my favorite designers was a judge, I will leave it at that. Two points for finding me in the crowd in the sixth image. Bar bill was large, drinks were small and spirits were high. Place bets on me coming in "hot key" hot next year.

Take Care.

DURING DEADLINE TIMES / UNTIL THEN

2009-03-04T13:13:00.000-08:00

When busy times come along I tend to sometimes lose my priority scale and invite more projects into the spinning wheels. These less valuable reach outs actually sometimes end up being the grout and inspiration that was needed to smooth it all out. Let's discuss:

GARDEN - Tilled up my raised bed only to find out I'm a little early for seeds. This is going to be a roller coaster with many calls home to mom for advice from her green thumb. Not being raised in the North West I scoped out a couple websites for getting dirty in our part of the globe. Found this a helpful tool: North West Garden News.

RAMP - This is already in the works. I'm just planning sizes, costs and materials. This has distraction written all over it. Brenden, get your ankles ready for positive things.

2009 Alberta Art Hop - Type, type and more type explorations. Still banging out the kinks here but stay posted on this one.

And that's just the banana on the split.

ATTENDING:

Breeze Block is hosting some photographers from PDX on Friday. Levins, Pinski and Mark Warren Jacques. See you there.

Cut and Paste is going on this Saturday. I will see you there.

DEQ Test at Oregon DMV. Wish I wasn't seeing you there.

Until then...

TURN THIS MUTHA OUT / BOTTLE BLASTER

2009-03-02T10:54:00.001-08:00

MC Hammer pushes the limits, from the hammer pants to his dance moves. I wonder if he's that intense every time he walks out of a car? Some early 1990 type in the beginning for you typer-graphical folks. I remember putting this tape in and jumping around with my brother, I would give $20 bucks to do that right this moment, to that same song.

You don't drink fast enough! Next time you go to hang out with a few of you drinkin buddies take this contraption (aka Fun faster) with you. It's kinda like that guy at the party in highschool that shotgunned by himself for an hour and then told you he loved you type of deal. Bottle blaster!

Take Care.

CODY HOYT / TAX MAN

2009-02-26T12:14:00.000-08:00

Cody Hoyt shows some impressive mixed media explorations. Cody went to school in Boston Massachuestts for printmaking. Enjoying his mandala styled pieces and all the little things to look at within them. So much happening. I actually have an email out to see if I can purchase a print. Cross your fingers.

Tax time is always a good time for me to thank my number crunching Dad all the way back east. Thanks for taking care of Uncle Sam for me Pops. I owe you!

Take Care.

LEVI VAN VELUW / NWFA

2009-02-24T14:18:00.000-08:00

Levi van Veluw is a multidisciplinary artist, he lives and works in the Netherlands.

Thats all I got from his Bio on his site. Levi seems like the kind of interesting guy you would want to grab a beer with, just going purely off his his work. He uses himself as a canvas and expresses with many mediums that cover his human form. Check out the light foil video below.

Great site as well.
Found on Kitsune Noir

I have been attending Northwest Fighting Arts since last June. March will be my last month due to cost cutting and sub-par attendance. Great place to go for Boxing and Maui Thai training if anyone interested. If you like to mix it up without getting curbed by hoods check it out. Kinda bummed about leaving really.

Take Care.

COMPLETELY CONNECTED

2009-02-20T14:42:00.001-08:00

Well thats that. I am now an AT&T subscriber, just like that. All for Apple and their stinking Iphone.

One very nice gift from my lady Ashley for my day of birth. I owe her big.

I have been hesitant to make the switch for a number of reasons, one being I will always be on the damn internet instead of soaking up my surroundings. Shit, and I know if I go back to a regular phone it's gonna be like carrying a rotary phone around.

I have to share this: The 50-dollar logo experiment.

So funny and true. Cheeses of Nazareth? haha.
Found on the DDC site.

Take Care.

26 Years Young

2009-02-19T17:05:00.000-08:00

Years old? Years young is more like it. So many older people always tell you how young you are when your pushing a decade under them, but I always said that your only as old as you act. I am a firm believer in that. Take in every good moment in the now, and act for the future ahead.

Thanks to everyone that sent kind words my way today. You have made my day.

Take Care.

VALENTINE O MINE / PREZ DAY

2009-02-17T18:11:00.000-08:00

Play then work was the motto the past few days around here. Started Feb 14th off with a late rise and then some turns up at Meadows. Sun and snow mix very well when your a patron of a local resort.

Driftwood then Clark Lewis for a serious 5 course meal. When a restaurant has no barrier between you and their kitchen, you know they are confident in what they do. First time paying a corking fee for this guy. Much thanks to Ashley for supplying the 2004 Jordan Cab. Sleep then ensued.

Happy presidents day to all. It's wild to think how all 44 completed at least a four year term, many years of history.

Take Care.

15 MINUTES / RED WINE BY THE BUCKETS

2009-02-11T11:55:00.000-08:00

Ride SBA7 Design Contest 2009 from evo on Vimeo.

The SBA7 was a hit. Larger turnout this year, better art and free beer for all. Thanks to Nate, Kyle for coming and Joel Brinson for putting us up for the night. Head to toe on the couch with two other guys was interesting, but I slept rock like.

Ms. Standing, the new wine rep of the crew has been supplying us with copious amounts of fine wine from all over the globe, and I have been learning slowly about getting high class. I thought Charles Shaw was just fine until about a month ago. Some of the Vineyards she has been kind enough to let us sip grape off:

Jordan 2005 Cabernet Sauvignon
Mt. Veeder Cab
Stag's Leap Wine Cellars Merlot
Fransican Merlot
Ruffino Reserva Ducale DOCG 100% Sangiovese Chianti Classico
Bodega Colome Reserve Argentinian Malbec
Chote des Rhone, Caves des Papes
2006 Panther Creek Shea Vineyard Pinot Noir

I'm getting into it. Thanks Ashley.

Cheers.

LITEN LJUS LAGER

2009-02-10T14:45:00.000-08:00

The Swedish lager Liten Ljus Lager (Little Light Lager) gets the treatment from Amore in this package design and identity development. This has been around on a bunch of packaging sites but I really enjoy the type and color so I wanted to post.

Seeing this more simplistic beer design made me look a little deeper into the beer package design market you can say. At first glance, this beer says sparkling spritzer of some european form or another to me personally, nothing close to my regular intake of cheap wash here in the states. But, I like that. It's like a breath of fresh air with a cold 5.2% down the hatch. When it's all said and done I will be skipping the "on special" isle if I see this in the cooler.

Cheers.

CARBON FOOTPRINT AWARDS / GENERATION

2009-02-09T16:24:00.000-08:00

Big things happening over the past few days. One of the more special events was finding out that an eco project started by Atomic took off really well. The GENERATION crew had a large hand in the process of getting RENU off the ground, graphically of course. Above is a boot GENERATION helped creatively drive. Jason over at Atomic did an amaing job material wise and got this thing 80 percent bio-plastic and dropped the eco-toxicity 58% as well. It's great to be graphically part of a good cause, it's a little more rewarding then trying to just sell a prouduct.

This boot won best in show at ISPO for the Eco Responsibility Award and we couldn't be happier over here. For more info visit HERE.

Back soon, take care.

OLLY MOSS / TIMBRO

2009-02-04T16:16:00.000-08:00

Seriously talented Olly Moss proves younger talent can bring heat. He taps into many sub categories of design throughout his portfolio. Smart executions / ideas, great illustrations, clean type usage and all at 21. His client list is nice as well, but he is looking for a full-time gig according to his website.

Another great straight forward website from Olly. Go check it out.

If your looking for a good read and a bunch of laughs check out Timbro's Worst Day Ever on Yobeat. Tim lives up the street from me and has been making me laugh since we met in 2004. He's writing a bit for Yobeat now so stay posted.

Take Care.

GC CLIENTS AND SUCH / WINERY

2009-02-03T15:20:00.000-08:00

The last GENERATION trip to the SIA show in Vegas went as planned. Meetings with Austrians = Check, Blackjack loss = Check, and Seeing some familiar faces = Check. All in all it went really well. Glad to be home though. The air here is lighter.

This weekend will be a traveling adventure. Down to King Estate Winery in Eugene for a night on the Vineyard, then up to Seattle at EVO for a the SBA07 event. Good times to be had at both ends and a lot to do before I get to point A.

Take Care.

SIN CITY 2009 / THE LAST SIA IN LV

2009-01-27T16:15:00.000-08:00

Im really gonna try and put it all down on the line this year and place a few bets. Watch out wallet, bills, coming paychecks and shit, maybe the whole salary. I'm not much of a gambler, but I always regret not playing a single thing when strolling into Vegas. Lady luck be by my side.

Be back to Portland in a few days.

With the economy in disarray my Dad sends me a link to some logos that represent the current state of affairs. I want these negative suckers pulled out of the gutter and put into the positive. Scared me with all this visual loss. Thanks Dad.

SBA7 / SEATTLE BOUND

2009-01-23T13:02:00.000-08:00

Got an email today from Casey over at Ride snowboards. I entered the SBA7 contest again this year. Real fun putting something together for yourself with no big money or branding tied to it. Last years event was real fun, I got top 7 last year so I booked up to Seattle to meet a few of the people who make this all happen. I met some real cool people and still to this day stay in touch with a few of the other artists. Watch out Appollo!

If you can come on down to EVO and see the gallery, it will be up all month.

Take Care.

PRINTS FOR PRESIDENTS

2009-01-22T16:14:00.000-08:00

Two good things come together. When things warm up here in Portland I'm going to piece together one of these little things. Backyard BBQ with horseshoes and a ramp sounds just about perfect in these cold times.

Went and saw Brenden John last night with a few friends. Every show gets better and better. Get'em B.

Till warmer times (hopefully tomorrow).

BIG DAYS IN THE NOW

2009-01-21T16:11:00.001-08:00

Yup, you can feel it in the air. Two big thumbs up from this guy and millions more. I was listening to NPR and caught a great comment by an inaugural attendee:

"I wanted to be a witness something that will be in the history books of our childrens children."

It made me think about the future and past of this country, and how far we have come and the hopeful future. All race aside, the dude is down right inspiring and itching to get into one of the most difficult jobs the country has to offer.

Just excited to see Bush haul ass back to Texas and Obama bring some fresh thinking. We need it.

Take Care.

BENSKI WITH BEN SKIS

2009-01-14T11:33:00.000-08:00

This post is dedicated to Ben Carlson.

I was tearing through some old ski designs for a quick brainstorm and came across some real fun stuff Ben and I worked on together. I have always enjoyed Ben's work through his hands on approach. Much of Ben comes through his work. We are thinking of him today here at the office.

Hi Ben.

OBJECTIFIED

2009-01-13T14:49:00.000-08:00

Something I will be watching out for this Spring. Objectified.

Here is a bit more:

Objectified is a feature-length independent documentary about industrial design. It’s a look at the creativity at work behind everything from toothbrushes to tech gadgets. It’s about the people who re-examine, re-evaluate and re-invent our manufactured environment on a daily basis. It’s about personal expression, identity, consumerism, and sustainability. It’s about our relationship to mass-produced objects and, by extension, the people who design them.

---------

Getting ready for SIA among other things. More soon.

Take Care.

HAPPY NEWS YEAR!

2009-01-07T12:20:00.000-08:00

2009 and back in the swing like that. Feels good to be back in Portland riding my bike and clicking the mouse.

Above is a poster I helped with at GENERATION, mostly putting the gloves and illustration together. It came out last fall but I wanted to share.

Something nice to check out. Great colorway.

Take Care in 2009.

VERMONTED FOR THE HOLIDAY

2008-12-30T11:16:00.000-08:00

Long time, no post. I have been taking some time away from the machine and seeing family. Really refreshing to get away for a bit, it stirs the ideas up and gets me excited for January.

My Dad got almost all the episodes of THE THREE STOOGES, and we put them to good use. Morning coffee, wood fires, and guitar were regular as well.

Also got to meet this little turd. First and only nephew ELI.

Back to Portland tomorrow for a slight move and flushing out some of the thoughts from the trip.

Take Care.

KIDS ARE GETTIN HURT / GOOD APPLES

2008-12-15T16:32:00.000-08:00

These apples man, I ate em up. Real good, real organic, real great description. No lies in the packaging. Photo by Andy love.

My firends Tim and Nate know how to throw a get together. Last weekend was no different. Good stories and good people. Although when morning came they decided to hit the streets. Yobeat tells a great story of having fun after a solid night out.

HOLIDAY SENDER / TONYA HARDING

2008-12-07T11:24:00.000-08:00

I have created a holiday card for family, friends and good people. Send your address to Steven@evadedesigns.com if you want to receive one this holiday season.

I recently found out I live within a 50 mile radius of Tonya Harding. I grew up in and around hockey rinks so I saw my fair share of the toe pick dancing in my life. I remember when the whole scandal went down when I was younger. I'm not gonna say she's nuts, but she is now competing in professional boxing. You have to read for yourself, quite a story of ups and downs.

Take Care.

1984 SPOT / FRIDAY

2008-11-22T13:05:00.000-08:00

It's been busy at the shop for the last few weeks so my boss decided to take a short day and go to the bar early afternoon. I got the slow burger, it's claimed to be the best burger in Portand. I have to say, it was delicious. If you have time and nine dollars go down to SLOW BAR and grab one. After that we went back to the office where I was uprooted in a game of Foosball. Thanks again Drew.

Had some time to kill this morning with Kyle and we stumbled into THE HORSE BRASS. It's a little slice of England on Belmont and 46th. Got an English breakfast which rivals all else and watched some soccer. If your a beer guy or girl they have quite the selection. Also have an older bartender that just jumped off the boat, and that adds a bit more value to the place for me.

Watch this all the way through and try to keep up. It's funny that I was only 1 years old when Rodney was pulling stuff like this out in Japan. I bet that guy can dance.

Take Care.

TOUCHPHONICS / GIVING THANKS

2008-11-19T11:43:00.000-08:00

A longtime friend of mine Adam Flick has been putting in some work. Based outta San Francisco, TOUCHPHONICS has come along way since the days of Essex Vermont. Glad to see he is gathering crowds. Like that Obama poster Adam.

Lots of good memories from our younger years.

Him and his girlfriend will be coming up to visit for Thanksgiving and Erin and I can't wait to have them. Adam and Heather have also been developing a new creation which I was lucky to creatively help out with, but more on that later. Deep fry that turkey NATE!

Take Care.

MOMBAMA / COFFE TIME

2008-11-12T23:32:00.000-08:00

I get some real nice postcards from my Mother. Most are ocean front shots of Cape Cod where she lives. Then every once in a while I check the the mail and get one of these (above). A just thinking of you-inspirational card that also touches into hundreds of years of heritage, prosperity and hope - kind of deal. Wow Mom, you are very warm. I cannot wait to go to P-Town and see the sunset.

Andy Love, a teammate - numbers - design guy - pumpkin pie lover gives us all a tune to drink coffee too. It gets me going even without the joe. Just look for the cup.

Take Care.

MARIO WAGNER

2008-11-11T20:45:00.001-08:00

Just surfing the net today at work and rolled across MARIO WAGNER. Collage style artwork above for Playstation. Old future. Hmmm.

Take Care.

44th PREZ / LISA CONGDON

2008-11-05T13:39:00.000-08:00

One step towards healing. Phew. Really glad I could be part of the process this election.

LISA CONGDON really puts it together and makes great art. Hands on type of stuff, really nice.

BUSSELED INTO BUSY

2008-11-03T20:39:00.000-08:00

Thanks to JESSE MALLON for this today (above). He reminded me to get my laundry done this evening. Also off the checklist is a roast that I prepared for slow cooking tomorrow, voting, plane ticket purchase, some deadline design work, and a few emails. I did miss giving myself a haircut but that can wait till tomorrow, after I watch some change in Washington. More than hopeful over here.

Take Care.

NISSAN FROM 1996 / RUST BUCKET

2008-10-28T15:19:00.001-07:00

I have a big place somewhere inside of myself for older boxed trucks. I bought this same make and model above almost threee years ago and I'm about to own pay my last payment. Thing is, here in Portland, she sits mostly, and I have been terrible about the regular maintanance. I'm bringing her to the shop tomorrow.

If your ever looking for a great mechanic in the Portland area check out Defresnes Auto Repair. Some of the best mechanics I have ever done business with, family run. My first visit the grandmother of the owner gave me a ride to work, and then picked me up and dropped me off to a fixed vehicle. I will always be grateful.

TAP'D NEW YORK

2008-10-23T18:56:00.001-07:00

I was emailed this link today from a creative staffing agency here in Portland. The nice bottle caught my eye and here is what the scoop was all about:

Tap'dNY is a New York City bottled water company with a local twist, a knack for honesty and a beautifully designed bottle. They work with NYC's public water system to source the world's best tasting tap water, purify it through reverse osmosis and bottle it locally, leaving out ludicrous transportation miles. They offer an honest and local alternative to thirsty New Yorkers, giving them a smarter choice: to drink their own (award winning) water.

Read their manifesto to see what they stand for.

SMART.

MR MATT STUART

2008-10-19T02:51:00.000-07:00

MATT STUART takes photos. Shoot pigeons. Check it out.

WORDS ARE PICTURES

2008-10-14T20:48:00.000-07:00

CRAIG WARD loves his type and we love him for it. Take a look through some great typographic thinking.

CUT N PASTE / RED SOX NATION

2008-10-11T10:03:00.000-07:00

There was a good chunk of time spent on the new Hestra ad campaign by Generation. It was full of process and creative thought. Above is me cut and pasting illustrations in the beginning stages. All in all I learned mostly about client relations, graphically of course. Important shit.

Go SOX! I am an underdog kinda guy, but if I didn't follow the RED SOX I would be shunned by both sides of the family. Until I was five I was a pure bred MASS-hole, and most if not all of my family still resides in Massachusetts. Before all these years of big money and championships there was just a hopeful, cursed team that seemed to always fall in high standing. It's been painful, but mostly, it has kept the fans alive season after season. I just can't take the bandwagon jumpers.

BLINDED BY SNOWBLINDED

2008-10-09T21:35:00.000-07:00

SNOWBLINDED by Anthony Cozzi captures some great places in nature. Enjoy.

FEELIN BETTER / GLOBAL STANDINGS

2008-10-08T19:28:00.000-07:00

I have been out of commission the past few days. Really fell under, but I took care of the situation and took some time for myself to heal up.

Feeling good and partly because of the debate that took place last night. A town hall "style" debate never really took place but some good explanations came from Obama that gained some undecided votes. 27 days until we can move forward. Finally.

If I could have asked a question, it would have been more along the personal "How many cars do you own" lines. It's a fair question.

BLACK & WHITE

2008-09-30T17:02:00.000-07:00

DEPTHCORE has a new pack of "Noir" based imagery. For those of you who don't know I really push my black and whites. Some real nice photoshop work in here. Check it out: NOIR

OFFICE IN THE WORKS / SUMMER BBQ

2008-09-27T09:36:00.000-07:00

The new GC office is coming together nicely. My chair rolls for miles on this new floor.

A few friends are having a goodbye summer BBQ this afternoon which should be nothing short of incredible. I am bringing a small game hen, and I'm going to char it black.

I'm also bringing new Portland resident Brendan Shinoski to come settle in the festivities. For you who like good tunes and haven't heard the NIGHT BIRDS before, Brendan plays some great tunes. He already has some Portland show lined up, show some support.

PALIN NAMING

2008-09-25T10:42:00.001-07:00

I know I know, the whole Palin craze these days, but I found this site that gives you a Palin naming as if you were part of the family. She has a few name ideas.

Steven McDonald, if you were born to Sarah Palin, your name would be:
Shot Corrugated Palin

One hell of a name. Give it a try here.

HIPSTER WHO?

2008-09-24T12:45:00.000-07:00

ADBUSTERS rolls out a shaking finger and slaps it all over today's Hipsters.

Not really sure what the term defines in actuality, I think everyone's got there own take on what is and isn't hip. I laughed at a few of the claims and descriptions that were a little out there, but some nice writing none the less. Someone is taking this shit very seriously.

Take a read through and find out if your hip, or just a hipster. Make sure to read some of the comments and feedback, some people don't take so kindly to the harsh words.

Take Care.

50 GIG POSTERS / CHANGING TO FALL TUNES

2008-09-17T18:58:00.000-07:00

50 GIG POSTERS. Take a cruise through, the best part is you get a link to the creators sight. The above poster is done by METHANE STUDIOS. I love the old church in the wind and how the placed this image landscape. Here's another from HEADS OF STATE which I like even more for Beck.

Beck has had me on one of his songs called Gamma Ray this summer from his new album MODERN GUILT. I got to see some spec work for becks new album, they do not fuck around when it comes to creative for his albums.

LYKKE LI is has some fun summer-time tunes. I have been playing her for a couple months and I'm not tired yet. I tend to remove myself from bands that get real large unless there is a real connection to the music. I foresee MTV and all that but I still like her artistic direction and quaint voice. Take a look and listen.

SIXPACK FRANCE / PALIN / SHORT & TALL

2008-09-16T21:05:00.001-07:00

SIXPACK FRANCE has some great artists that create just down right great stuff such as above. Go check them out and enjoy.

I can't get over the guns that have been pointed in our presidential race for November. I have been enjoying the promises and lies all wrapped up into clips of put downs. I will have to say that the ladies at the VIEW gave McCain a good run. Take a look at the clips.

As for Palin, I don't even know what to say. Matt Damon is all fired up and makes a few great points.

Here is one for the short guys. Crazy.

Take Care.

PRINT MAFIA / 8 YEARS

2008-09-12T16:51:00.001-07:00

PRINT MAFIA has some exceptional works. Let them explain why:

We live and work in Bowling Green, KY and have been creating gigposters and many other forms of rock-n-roll art since 1997 when Print Mafia™ was formed. We make our posters the old fashioned way - we design without the use of computers (well sometimes we get our typefaces there), and hand pull each color of our silkscreen editions. Our tools are Xacto knives, copy machines and our archive of found images and illustrations - Old School Cut and Paste. Our posters have the look, feel, and texture of having been unearthed from another time and place-but what always “gets people” is that what we do is for very modern, present-day events.

Found through Change the Thought.

Eight years ago today I asked my lady if she would be my gal, and through all the trials of growing up and high school / college we have stayed together. I'm not even the same person I was when I asked her to be my girlfriend, but somehow she has stuck with me. Happy anniversary Erin. Sushi at your favorite joint and the new Coen brothers film is a great for the occasion.

Have a good weekend.

HOLDEN 08/09

2008-09-09T21:15:00.000-07:00

I have always liked holden. Small, simplistic, and quality product. They also have a really expressive site with a ton of video shot by for hours of viewing pleasure. Cruise around the interactive product detail, it caught me by suprise. Neat.

Take Care.

ATOM SMASHING / BIRD SHIT

2008-09-08T09:29:00.000-07:00

I timed my bike ride to work this morning. Down the hill into the city, over the bridge to the east side in 13 minutes. I have the route all laid out. Fast, faster than traffic. I wasn't going that fast cause a bird shit on me about 200 feet from my work. Bird poo is weird, it's watery but not completely disgusting like dog shit. So I cleaned up and then I remembered back on April 9th or 10th when my friend Tyler was visiting PDX, he got shit on real bad, it made my incident look minor.

With all that aside I was reading some news this morning and caught this article on the worlds largest atom smasher. I had seen something similar posted about a month ago but this week is when they fire it up. Some people believe it will kill us all. I think it will make the Never Ending Story into a real life adventure for some brave scientist.

Take Care.