Ellis Gallagher!

Meet Ellis Gallagher, street artist from Brooklyn, NY. He creates art from shadows made from everything on the street. Amazing amazing amazing!

Another great video interview on CurrentTV.

N. Korean tension

North Korea is preparing for a missile launch and doing everything it can to make it happen. Two American journalists from Current TV (founded by Al Gore) reporting on North Korean refugees who fled inhumane conditions, were arrested and indicted on charges of "hostile acts" against the communist state. Details on nytimes.com.

All this amidst tensions surrounding North Korea's test launching for a long-range missile. The North claims this missile will carry a satellite and responded to Japan's order to shoot down any missile that enters Japan's airspace; North Korea will consider an interception as Japan waging war on the North. More on current tv. Another report on Bloomberg.com.

This is serious shit. All the while the North Korean people have absolutely no say in the matter. As much as the rest of the world looks down on this country, the real story is the injustice and inhumanity that goes on continuously at the cost of the people. It is not their fault they were born into the conditions they live in. And when reporters try to bring to light these realities, they are used as pawns to further a nuclear agenda by the North's government.

I wish the best for the two reporters Laura Ling and Euna Lee. They don't deserve to be punished for engaging the world "in a discussion in a knowledgeable way". This segways into a discussion on the roles of a journalist. Check out this article on the Knight science journalism symposium on reportr.net.

Tjejsaijten

Great photo of one of the Olsens (not sure which...) I found browsing a new fashion blog I ran into tonight. Tjejsaijten. -that word looks like someone just tapped randomly on the keyboard- I definitely am not very knowledgeable when it comes to what's hot and who's who in fashion, that's just not my field of expertise...but as far as I can tell the Olsens are very into high-fashion. Go them. Wish I had the means to live like that.

Last Night's Party blog

I'm in a hotel room with two naked porn stars and a pin-up model, partying. The vodka is ¾ done. It's 2 a.m. The phone rings.
She speaks. So are you serious? You want to take pictures of me?
Yes. I can do it tomorrow if you're around.
Why not tonight? Are you busy?
The girl on the other end of the line is my bank teller from this afternoon. My Washington Mutual teller wanting to come over right now when I'm hanging out with these crazy girls and take pictures. Bad, bad idea.
Yeah, ok. Perfect. Come over.
I tell the girls to get dressed so we don't freak her out when she gets here.
The bank teller calls back.
I'm nervous, you know, my body isn't perfect. I recently broke up with my boyfriend and I gained a few pounds. Is that okay?
She's on speaker phone and the porn stars are making "Oh, she's so cute..." faces.
I like your curves. Don't worry about it. Come over.
More drinks.
She knocks on the door. Shh, shh... She's either gonna freak out or, I don't even know.
I open the door. She looks into the trashed hotel room.
She speaks.
You know, I don't mind if you guys wanna get naked.

Last Night's Party's blog. I can't believe I didn't see this before. Some great entries. Take a look.

Animal~

I really like Miike Snow...great recent find for me. Their new track Animal is wonderful but I'm really digging Treasure Fingers' remix. Free download on RCRD LBL. Check out all of Miike Snow's tracks available on RCRD LBL here. His last.fm profile here. And of course Myspace music page here.

Lebron-mazing!

Earth Hour 2009

Earth Hour tomorrow night 8:30-9:30 local time. Let's all pitch into the global effort to slow warming. The idea is for everyone to take one hour out of the year to switch off all our lights. More info go to the Earth Hour website.

Two fav artists: Banksy & Fairey

New auction piece for "undies auction" where celebrities auction off their undies for a charity. Check out the article linked to the image. Arrested Motion is a great new art blog I found. Check it out.




Shepard Fairey is another one of my favs at the moment. He's been around for some time and as a fellow RISD alumni I can relate to his work very easily. As you may know Fairey is suing the AP after the AP released a statement that Fairey needed rights to make his famous Hope poster for the Obama campaign. Here's the story on nytimes.

Check out Fairey's explanation for the lawsuit on his website. It is an interesting read and I agree with him 100%. At that, an artist should not have to explain himself. It is a subjective medium. It makes no sense that he needed permission to use the photo and compensation for its production. Fuck that I say! If that principle were applied, any artist who painted, drew, or represented another object by means of realistic representation should owe money to whomever produced the photo. Nonsense. Inspiration is not a right of ownership.

White House Open for Questions

First ever Interactive Online White House Town Hall. I think the Obama administration is making a great effort to let all of us know that we are the government; making the White House more accessible than ever.

Here's the full transcript on nytimes.com.

Fitness First Ad Campaign

N=5 's ad campaign for Fitness First.  Guilt is an amazing way to get results.  I would head straight to the gym if I sat on one of these benches...

Gay Porn Star Identical Twin: Keyon Goffney

I came across this article on the Details site the other day.  It is provocative to say the least.  Keyon and Taleon Goffney, identical twins from Camden NJ, do what is necessary to make it.  

I think the article, long-winded as it is, emphasizes what it is about Keyon that is so easy to latch on to.  His modeling career is inextricably linked to his bizarre history, but you can't help but relate to it.  

I keep coming back to why it is I am drawn to this story; it is only unique in its specifics.  Bizarre and perverse as it may be to some, the story of survival is in a sense the "American Dream"; in Keyon's words "It's a hustle.  Just like anything else".      

Kogi!

I ran across this story on npr.org today.  This is a must listen!  

Kogi is a tweeting Korean taco food truck (Site-note: the word "kogi" is Korean for meat, it is pronounced Goh-gi).  The concept in itself is a mouthful but apparently it is all the rage in L.A. atm.  So, me being Korean, and in a very non-Korean part of Denver, I don't get enough Korean food to begin with.  When I saw this my mouth just started watering.  

The fans of Kogi twitter to find out where the next stop is and of course twitter to rage all about it.  Lines are hours long and the food reviews are off the charts.  Check out the story on npr.org.  

FREQBOUTIQUE.COM

Freqboutique.com is Denver's new afterhours. Watch out cuz we are finally gonna get what we've been craving for in the afterhours scene. With summer on the horizon it is the perfect time to gear up for what's in store. Finally, there is something to look forward to when you're ready to continue the party.

Up 'til now there was no option for those of us that like to party VIP and in style after the clubs. Post-2AM is non-existent in Denver. Not anymore! Freqboutique is here. Check out the website for upcoming events and promotions.

R U Professional - Mae Shi

I recently discovered Mae Shi. I absolutely love this song/video. Never thought I'd connect w/ an artist that loves Christian Bale as much as I do...

Boob Scarf!

Need I say more?

Big Brothers, Big Sisters...

From Patrick Sandri's portfolio on Behance.net: Big Brothers Big Sisters Big Macs Big Boobs and Big Deals. Something about these images that are both perverse and Warhol-esque.

Perverse in a arty controversial way; taboo subjects are portrayed in a pop-art manner. At the same time they are almost subtle in a way. There are actually photos of some of them in public places and they seem so out of place and humorous yet people walk right by them without even noticing. There is a cheeky dycotomy of ordinary and taboo.

the cobra snake

I absolutely love Last Night's Party. Something about wild and crazy party pictures-even of strangers-that make me feel so good.  The Cobra Snake is another great site along these lines; not quite my scene but great moments nonetheless. Enjoy!

FanBridge

I listened to a very interesting segment on NPR's Morning edition today on the drive to work. It was about an investor Chris Sacca and his latest venture FanBridge. I hate to get boring on everyone and talk business...as I am definitely not the most business savvy person you will meet but there is a lot of relevance to this new idea that is emerging.

I wouldn't do it justice so I will just link you to the article on NPR: FanBridge Makes A Profit Connecting Fans, Band

I think that the interesting part of this story is not in the success of the Chris Sacca but in the innovative ideas that are coming out of and benefiting the artist community. One might be drawn to say that despite the troubled economy, creativity endures; but the truth is as the saying goes:

necessity is the mother of invention.

Electro-chic

I found the most fab site today. De La Sade has the most amazing leggings. I must get some for my Vegas trip! Don't forget to check out some amazing photos on this site as well.

Groovy Clocks

Look at these great recycled vinyl record wall clocks! Great idea by The Grateful Thread. I absolutely love retro-inspired art and decor. Yet another item to add to my ever-growing wish-list.

The IAC Building - Frank Gehry

I can appreciate Frank Gehry architecture for what it is but 'til now I've only seen his works as enlarged sculptures. As visually stimulating the gestural works are, the functionality of spaces seemed generally second-thought.

The IAC building however, has a gestural quality that connects with my subtle sensibilities as an artist. It is a virtual delineation of the layers of functional spaces; the street level that glows with life and vibrance, the shrouded level above offers privacy, and terraces above that which offers tremendous views of New York City.

I feel like I am so far from the world of architecture, as it's been months since I've been laid off at abe, but when I see myself admiring works like this, it brings me right back to the things I appreciate so much in architecture...the fantastic coupling of art and life. Concept and construction. Gesture and function.

YES WE DID!  

Last Night's Party

I love this blog.  Check out lastnightsparty.com.  You can live vicariously through the snapshots you'll find of the most off-the-wall parties you wish you were at last weekend.  From massives to house-parties and everything in between,  this blog captures the essence of "PARTY" in every sense of the word.  

Vending - what?

I saw this in I.D. today.  What's weird is I ran across it before while I was inter-web surfing but it didn't process like it did today.  I mean, you've gotta think, it'd be kind of rough being the guy who stocks these bad boys...but I digress.  

I have been all for everything over-the-top and loud lately.  You can't help but be affected by today's pop culture; neon is in, super-bright colors and disco chic flavors, as well as in-your-face typography-based graphic design are all the rage.  

These vending machines by bikedispenser.com are an ingenious idea.  Green in every way as well as convenient, these babies are automated rental stations.  You swipe your bikedispenser card and voila~ your bike is dispensed.  Not only that, the whole contraption is designed with some class.  I wish we had these in the U.S.

iPod Solar Charger

You can find Solios ipod and mobile phone charger at Ethics Girls.  This little guy is so relevant for the times.  It's not only handy but green.  The company even plants trees so the production of these devices is carbon neutral.  What a great way to carry through with the sustainable message they are selling.  It comes with a kit of various tips for cell phones, USB cable, and 12V adapter.  Now to see if it'll work w/  my iPhone!

Minitel Rose

Minitel Rose is part of a group of producers from Western France, called Valerie.  Valerie has a great blog worth checking out as well.  Other artists in the group include The Outrunners, College, Anoraak, Maethelvin, and others.  

I am in love with all the great up and coming electro artists out there but for some reason the French just do it with amazing ease.  Minitel Rose is my fav out of the bunch so far; very 80's retro sounding, catchy, dancy, and still good 'ol dirty electro.  These guys are a buzz in the electronic music blog world and I'm glad I found them before they hit it big...and you know they will before long.   Their first album "The French Machine" is out this month on May 28th.  I cannot wait!  

Below are a list of blogs that I've found have some tracks available for download.  Check out Minitel Rose's Remix myspace page for some free tunes as well.   

Hipster Runoff

The Fader

Trash Menagerie

Chromeo-Fancy Footwork

Just released official video for Fancy Footwork by Chromeo. Directed by Ben Levine. Enjoy!
Chromeo - Fancy Footwork from Chromeo1 on Vimeo.

Purple Crush-Shopping on the Dancefloor

Love it!

Stefan Bruggemann

Check out some Stefan Bruggemann.  I love his work because you really get into the artist's head; in just a few textual elements.  Its simplicity and boldness befits the time.  Nevertheless, it is ironic and humorous on so many levels.

Bravo!  

Dancefloor Mayhem

So I've been on this hunt for the latest and greatest dance music. dancefloor mayhem is my new spot to discover the best of electro, house, techno, breaks, hip-hop, and the list goes on.  Plus there are a ton of high-quality songs and mixes for download.
 
Fuck'n love it!

Last.fm

Last.fm is the go-to-site for anything music related. I'm trying to think of the right word to describe it but really, there is no one word or phrase that best describes it. The official slogan "The Social Music Revolution" touches on the essence of what this is all about.

I first came across this site when a friend of mine suggested I check it out; knowing I am the type of person who loves to organize everything nice and neat. I was first taken by the ability to track your what you listen to on iTunes. You create a profile on the site and the more music it tracks, the more it gets to know your music taste.

Last.fm recommends artists weekly, based on what you are listening to. Of course there are a whole host of groups you can join, catering to different interests, and these groups are an incredible network for finding virgin music. You can also search for music by artist, album, song, you name it.

Each artist has a page that displays other similar artists as well as an overview as well as listener stats, charts, album info, and more. You can listen to clips from songs, and sometimes there are full tracks to listen to and/or download. It's wonderful. I could go on and on but really you need to just check it out.

Enjoy!

N.E.E.T. Magazine

N.E.E.T. Magazine. I love this site! Anyone into indie fashion would love this magazine. From clothing to art to fashion blogs and much, much more. This is one of my favs.

Renewable batteries

USB-Cell has produced a great sustainable product that is practical and simple in design and concept. This is something everyone needs: a rechargeable battery that is USB-adaptable for fast, easy, convenient charging. I need to get myself some of these. Batteries are such a waste; use it until it runs out of juice and out it goes to the dumpster.

Change

We attended the Adams County Democratic Assembly yesterday (12.08.08) at the Adams County Fairgrounds. At the caucuses in February, Stephen and I volunteered to be elected delegates for the Adams County Democratic Assembly. We were both inspired and moved to do our part to contribute to the movement of change that is becoming so evident today.

We both support Barack Obama enthusiastically and thought this would be a good opportunity to be a part of the process that we have been so oblivious to; frankly, until recently (the past couple years), I have developed a healthy skepticism to question everything. Of course this tendency has been fermenting through my college years, but only in an abstract way. The reality of the absurdities of the right-wing evangelical policies that are choking out all reason in America today is the seed that is bringing out this need for change. I cannot just sit back and do nothing as Bush and the Republican party argue for a war in Iraq, insist on invoking fear in Americans by feeding us bullshit, doing nothing to alleviate our dependance on foreign oil or advancing our own economic and technological future by investing in new sustainable technologies, allowing domestic spying on Americans and trampling on our privacy while protecting the corporations that assist in the process...just to name a few atrocities that are considered acceptable by the government and accepted by Americans.

We need a new government. Not one based on old politics. We need a president that is not jaded or affected by the same old way of doing things. Hillary fits right into this old politics based on undeniable ties to the special interest lobbyists, broken promises, and a disconnect from the needs and passions of the real people. Have you once heard Hillary talk about her work in the community centers and inner city neighborhoods? She does not have a real understanding of the underprivileged. She votes to approve the war and of course is part of this anti-Bush campaign to bring the troops home. She votes for pro-NAFTA legislation and champions the Workers' cause to keep their jobs from going overseas and "fix" NAFTA. She says she is "proud" to be runnning against Obama, then mocks him, and uses negative campaigning against him attacking him with untrue statements. And I don't know if anyone else has noticed but her slogan and image has changed so many times throughout this campaign, I don't know if she has multiple personalities, or the more reasonable conclusion to make is that she is imploring every tactic possible to get what she wants. She has no ideals, morals, or even the wisdom to realize that when she endorses herself and McCain to have the experience a candidate needs to be president, she is dividing the party as well as praising the candidate that promotes the same ideals she is supposedly running against.

Change??? All I see is a conniving political machine willing to say and do anything to get into office, w/out concern for the ideals that make this party worth fighting for. She is not real. For these reasons I have to take action and do my part to keep another political robot from being elected for Presidency.

Obama is not affected by Washington and still in touch with the average Americans' needs and goals in life. He is an advocate for change and will not stand for the same "business as usual"; but on the same token he is not naive to the realities of politics. He is consistent; he was against the war then and is against the war now. And for these reasons I feel the responsibility to not only support Obama but really do my part in the Democratic process to oppose the Republicans. I am moved. I really want to do my part to take back my country. This presidential race has done one important thing. And that is invoke a sense of ownership and pride, for many people, for the very first time in our lives. Michele Obama spoke for the majority of Americans today when she said she is proud to be and American for the first time in her adult life.

I have to say though, that I was definitely not expecting a joy-ride the entire way. The Adams County Democratic Assembly this weekend was a taste of two sides of the political process; excitement and painful. The painful part came when we had to be there at 7:30AM on a Saturday...ouch. Once we got inside (there was a huge line to get in), we checked-in and casted our preference votes for the Democratic presidential nominee. Then we waited a good two hours for voting to finish and the Adams County Assembly to begin. Most of which was formal introductions, and jibber-jabber that really didn't mean much to us. The bulk of the Assembly was taken by candidates for state senate and congress seats making their stump speeches. We made it 'til about noon and left.

I have to say I was a bit disappointed that we left early but all that was left on the agenda was some more speeches. We did our part and voted, as well as meeting some interesting people on both sides. The atmosphere was cheery and excitement. There was one older lady that went up to the mic to make a point of order. She wanted the chairman slow down and explain the process since she was a first time delegate (she said she switched from the Republican Party). She asked a few questions and then a few people in the assembly starting booing her and one even told her to "shut up and sit down". Unbelievable. I could not believe they did that to her. She was only being honest and really she was speaking for the majority of us in the assembly that were first-time delegates as well. Suffice it to say, it put a slight damper to the day but overall, it was a fulfilling experience.

Just Jack

I just discovered Just Jack this weekend. I love the fresh dancy sounds. There are some hip-hop rhythms that you can pick up but it is very dancy and fun.

Jack said it best himself, "I never had heroes and never wanted to be like other musicians", he says. "I have no affiliations to anyone, I'm not part of a gang, I'm not a part of a scene and I don't have a sound that's obviously a part of a scene. I'm Just Jack."

The sound does not fit neatly into a genre...it is Just Jack. There is a bio on last.fm and be sure to visit Just Jack's website. The newly released album Overtones is wonderful. My favorite song Starz in Their Eyes makes me want to dance! Enjoy!

Obama For Change

Remember to vote this Tuesday! Obama supporters - pass this video along to all your friends and family!

Earth Hour 2008

Join the effort to make a difference this year. Earth Hour is an ingenious idea to bring people together to save energy and reduce global carbon emissions.

If you're like me you feel like the little efforts you make at home and work on an individual level do not add up to much of a difference but something like this really makes a tangible impression on the realness of the climate crisis we are facing as well as the realness of the impact you can make to reverse the warming trend. Sign up and let's together make a change!

Recycle Cell Phones

The Secret Life has a page dedicated to informing those of us who are interested in being less wasteful.

AWDIO

Awdio is a great concept. I love it. For those of us that love to stay in front of the mainstream and be in the know of all the great new music around the world.

The world's hottest clubs and hot spots are at your fingertips...

You can listen in on what is being played at a huge selection of the hottest clubs, bars, and lounges around the world. And it's all live.

More Screens

Thomas Phifer's Salt Point House is featured in this month's Architectural Record.  I thought it would be a nice comparison to the Tattoo House.

The minimal use of materials and the clean straight lines results in a very modern form.  This is in sharp contrast to its context and makes for an interesting juxtaposition.  The verticality of the screens mimics the trees that surround as well as create a semi-transparent effect that maximizes views throughout the house.  The ribbon-windows reflect the trees and adds another layer of transparency.  The shadows cast into the house adds yet another layer and brings the outside in.  

The Salt Point House assimilates within its context in a very simple yet poetic way.  Amazingly the porousness of this design addresses the beauty of its surroundings and optimizes the practicality of providing privacy with screens.