"Redneck", I think I missed the type mark. Maybe I need to check out more books on typography because unless I'm handling it personally, type and I argue alot...
Thursday, September 24, 2009
The Long Drive - Redneck
"Redneck", I think I missed the type mark. Maybe I need to check out more books on typography because unless I'm handling it personally, type and I argue alot...
Scratching
Wednesday, was spent doing said scratchboard, and cleaning, and going to Halliday's potluck. Then coming home and trying to figure out the text for my redneck image. I have a strong feeling I missed the mark, but I'm allowing myself two out of three going bad, and this is my first time back in the saddle so to speak.
The next assignment I'm more excited about. I have to figure out this whole graphics vs. Illustration thing and once I do, I think I'll be ready to go, but I'm just not as good assembling things on the computer... Perhaps, I shouldn't try...
Tuesday was spent mostly printing after assembling some CC Now orders. The calenders are almost done and you know what that means....typesetting!!!!
Tuesday, September 22, 2009
Tuesday Tips - Letterpress
In an attempt to make my blog slightly more interesting, I thought I'd start a section called "Tuesday Tips". I can't promise they'll be good, and of course may be taken with a grain of salt since they are entirely my opinion. If people react well, then I'll keep it up, if not, I'll probably get bored of it and stop.
So with out further adeiu: here is installment number one: Letterpress
For the last four months or so I've been working at Hammerpress, letterpress and design studio. After pestering Brady, leaning over Matt's shoulder while he designs, and digging through everything I can get my hands on without being too intrusive, this is some of what I've found:
* Be creative with your type. Think of it in new ways. Turn wood type upside down and use the grain for an interesting background (do this only with wood type or previously damaged lead type, since lead is easily marred and wood can stand the strain). A row of lower case i's can quickly become a border placed end to end. Just because you don't have a lot of type, doesn't mean you don't have a lot of possibilities.
* Layer. First of all, all letterpress inks are more or less transparent with the exception of metallic. Use this to your advantage. Think about how shapes will look with another layer of ink on top of them, or how a layer of white underneath might make another color more dramatic.
Also, layer in the terms of your type. Reprinting the same layer in a different color, slightly off, will make a "shadow" that causes the second color to pop. For that matter, if you print the same layer right over the previous color, you might find the first color peeking through (especially with older type) and create a great sense of depth.
* Keep your hand on your paper until you can't anymore. Not too firm, but firm enough the paper is pressed against the timpin. This will help with registration - particularly larger pieces and fine details.
* When you pull your paper out - pull it straight up instead of at an angle. This will help avoid catching ink on the tail end.
* Color not dark enough? Add more ink (a little at a time of course), you don't necessarily need more packing. Too much packing could hurt the type, too much ink is just messy.
* Always print more than you need - up to one fourth of your total at least, you'll be happy you did.
* If you love something - print each layer in black on white paper, that way you can make a plate of it and reprints will be easy.
* Look everywhere for imagery. Old book title pages, vintage magazines, clipart books. Remember when you see a clipart book called "1200 images and ornaments", they aren't talking about christmas tree ornaments. Once upon a time, most of those things were actual type.
* Use the presses at school. This is my most important tip. Don't let the time you have on them go to waste. Finding an open press and type is incredibly hard when you're not at art school.
So with out further adeiu: here is installment number one: Letterpress
For the last four months or so I've been working at Hammerpress, letterpress and design studio. After pestering Brady, leaning over Matt's shoulder while he designs, and digging through everything I can get my hands on without being too intrusive, this is some of what I've found:
* Be creative with your type. Think of it in new ways. Turn wood type upside down and use the grain for an interesting background (do this only with wood type or previously damaged lead type, since lead is easily marred and wood can stand the strain). A row of lower case i's can quickly become a border placed end to end. Just because you don't have a lot of type, doesn't mean you don't have a lot of possibilities.
* Layer. First of all, all letterpress inks are more or less transparent with the exception of metallic. Use this to your advantage. Think about how shapes will look with another layer of ink on top of them, or how a layer of white underneath might make another color more dramatic.
Also, layer in the terms of your type. Reprinting the same layer in a different color, slightly off, will make a "shadow" that causes the second color to pop. For that matter, if you print the same layer right over the previous color, you might find the first color peeking through (especially with older type) and create a great sense of depth.
* Keep your hand on your paper until you can't anymore. Not too firm, but firm enough the paper is pressed against the timpin. This will help with registration - particularly larger pieces and fine details.
* When you pull your paper out - pull it straight up instead of at an angle. This will help avoid catching ink on the tail end.
* Color not dark enough? Add more ink (a little at a time of course), you don't necessarily need more packing. Too much packing could hurt the type, too much ink is just messy.
* Always print more than you need - up to one fourth of your total at least, you'll be happy you did.
* If you love something - print each layer in black on white paper, that way you can make a plate of it and reprints will be easy.
* Look everywhere for imagery. Old book title pages, vintage magazines, clipart books. Remember when you see a clipart book called "1200 images and ornaments", they aren't talking about christmas tree ornaments. Once upon a time, most of those things were actual type.
* Use the presses at school. This is my most important tip. Don't let the time you have on them go to waste. Finding an open press and type is incredibly hard when you're not at art school.
Things to do: not procrastinate
I spent Monday sorting out bank problems and getting back into the groove of screenprinting. It is a little like riding a bike, however I did forget how runny the INKubator's emulsion is.
Cool news that has to do with screenprinting:
1. The lead singer and manager of Hearts of Darkness is interested in turning my scratchboard heart into a t-shirt for their band. H.o.D. is a huge band in K.C. terms and this could mean good publicity for me.
2. I'll be selling version 2.0 of the anniversary poster at the show, and at 10 dollars a piece, I have a good feeling about this. Joe thinks they'll make some money. Who could say no? Three color, high quality art. I want to do Pistol Club t-shirts and/or posters as well, but with Adam arriving, I don't think I'll have time.
Post screen prep, I went to the Brink with some of the other members from the INKubator. It was one of the girl's birthday and we celebrated with Grits night, a bluegrass jam party, and grilled cheese.
I left around 9:30 and came home to watch Mad Men and finally make a break through on my illustration piece. Good for me.
***a printing side note***
Eric has been generous enough to offer his Heidelberg services. He works at another print shop where they make polymer plates and he is going to get me in on that so I can fast and easily make small items. I'm thinking I might make plates of my zine since all I need is a run of 250, that could be made in 30 minutes.
Cool news that has to do with screenprinting:
1. The lead singer and manager of Hearts of Darkness is interested in turning my scratchboard heart into a t-shirt for their band. H.o.D. is a huge band in K.C. terms and this could mean good publicity for me.
2. I'll be selling version 2.0 of the anniversary poster at the show, and at 10 dollars a piece, I have a good feeling about this. Joe thinks they'll make some money. Who could say no? Three color, high quality art. I want to do Pistol Club t-shirts and/or posters as well, but with Adam arriving, I don't think I'll have time.
Post screen prep, I went to the Brink with some of the other members from the INKubator. It was one of the girl's birthday and we celebrated with Grits night, a bluegrass jam party, and grilled cheese.
I left around 9:30 and came home to watch Mad Men and finally make a break through on my illustration piece. Good for me.
***a printing side note***
Eric has been generous enough to offer his Heidelberg services. He works at another print shop where they make polymer plates and he is going to get me in on that so I can fast and easily make small items. I'm thinking I might make plates of my zine since all I need is a run of 250, that could be made in 30 minutes.
Monday, September 21, 2009
LBD, trousers, d'orsay heels and such
Didn't do much yetserday, much to my chagrin.
I redesigned the Hearts of Darkness poster, something that would be easier to screen print. Looking at the other version there would probably be six layers that I'd have to do, and I can't trust the red at Arts INKubator, so it will have to remain a digital print flyer.
Then I went to Barnes and Nobel and read myself through a bunch of fashion books and got some tips on make up. After reading enough fashion, they all say the same thing. Maybe I'll make my own version - condensing everything into a "Tuesday Tips".
Oh, btw, Trillian. I'm hooked on Esquire.
After that I came home and watched more Golden Girls followed by a desire for a redneck break through that I didn't get. Damn eye-catching design!
I redesigned the Hearts of Darkness poster, something that would be easier to screen print. Looking at the other version there would probably be six layers that I'd have to do, and I can't trust the red at Arts INKubator, so it will have to remain a digital print flyer.
Then I went to Barnes and Nobel and read myself through a bunch of fashion books and got some tips on make up. After reading enough fashion, they all say the same thing. Maybe I'll make my own version - condensing everything into a "Tuesday Tips".
Oh, btw, Trillian. I'm hooked on Esquire.
After that I came home and watched more Golden Girls followed by a desire for a redneck break through that I didn't get. Damn eye-catching design!
Sunday, September 20, 2009
Movin' and Groovin'
Jen, from Hammerpress, and her boyfriend are moving in together and I thought I'd spread the moving help karma and volunteered my services.
Jen's old apartment is on the third floor of a stair entrance only building. I was wondering how I was going to work off eating at the pizza buffet the night earlier, but that problem was solved for me.
I arrived at noon and a half hour later another pair of Jen's friends joined the work force, followed by another couple an hour or so later. With the seven of us, it took maybe three hours to load everything up in the U-Haul and four cars. Car was brimming with art she'd collected from working at a frame shop, gallery, and of course Hammerpress.
It took maybe an hour to unload everything into her beautiful and expansive new place. Jen is living on the second floor of an old home on the corner of a lovely tree lined street. The kitchen is very large and has built in cabinets. There is a dining room with a rounded wall almost over take by windows, hardwood floors, and a Kansas City must - a porch.
After everything was finished we porched it - eating Papa Murphy's, drinking PBR and talking about Kansas City.
I said my goodbyes a little after 5 and came home to take a nap before preparing for a soiree.
After a nap, some non productive watching of Golden Girls, and going in circles with my redneck comps, I finally got ready for Madeline's (the woman who runs the zine around here) 30th birthday party.
The invite said black tie, so I dressed up in my black pencil skirt, gold tank top (with sequin trim), red shimmery cardigan, and my new fabulous black sequin barrett. Even before I arrived at the party I received many compliments from some wedding guests next door. (Speaking of wedding, it was all vintage themed and they had ribbon dancers, the type that hang from the ceiling, as entertainment)
When we arrived, many people had not followed the invite's orders and were dressed very casually. However, a few people, like Halliday, did dress up and looked great.
We partied late and I ended up staying over and cooking a breakfast of my go-to spicy potatoes. They went over well.
Anyways, it was a great birthday party, and a wonderful Saturday.
Jen's old apartment is on the third floor of a stair entrance only building. I was wondering how I was going to work off eating at the pizza buffet the night earlier, but that problem was solved for me.
I arrived at noon and a half hour later another pair of Jen's friends joined the work force, followed by another couple an hour or so later. With the seven of us, it took maybe three hours to load everything up in the U-Haul and four cars. Car was brimming with art she'd collected from working at a frame shop, gallery, and of course Hammerpress.
It took maybe an hour to unload everything into her beautiful and expansive new place. Jen is living on the second floor of an old home on the corner of a lovely tree lined street. The kitchen is very large and has built in cabinets. There is a dining room with a rounded wall almost over take by windows, hardwood floors, and a Kansas City must - a porch.
After everything was finished we porched it - eating Papa Murphy's, drinking PBR and talking about Kansas City.
I said my goodbyes a little after 5 and came home to take a nap before preparing for a soiree.
After a nap, some non productive watching of Golden Girls, and going in circles with my redneck comps, I finally got ready for Madeline's (the woman who runs the zine around here) 30th birthday party.
The invite said black tie, so I dressed up in my black pencil skirt, gold tank top (with sequin trim), red shimmery cardigan, and my new fabulous black sequin barrett. Even before I arrived at the party I received many compliments from some wedding guests next door. (Speaking of wedding, it was all vintage themed and they had ribbon dancers, the type that hang from the ceiling, as entertainment)
When we arrived, many people had not followed the invite's orders and were dressed very casually. However, a few people, like Halliday, did dress up and looked great.
We partied late and I ended up staying over and cooking a breakfast of my go-to spicy potatoes. They went over well.
Anyways, it was a great birthday party, and a wonderful Saturday.
Saturday, September 19, 2009
Thrifty
Friday I work at Hammerpress for free. Tuesdays and Thursdays are my only days that I get paid, however, Fridays I usually print, which is odd, but somehow understandable. Currently I am printing the many layers that go into the flying dirigible calender - which is a surprising amount. I've got three down and I think three more to go - which will be finished some time next week.
Before lunch I finished packing the remaining orders needed for the next two weeks and then post lunch/nap I printed the silver layer of the calender.
At the end of the day Brady and I talked about a poster he has in mind for the Land of Nod - something based off my wood type piece - that I'll get to work on maybe the week after next. Finally some typesetting. I've been itching to get my hands back in those drawers.
Even though there was a show going on at the Pistol, I can't say I was too interested and instead Halliday, Terry (an awesome girl Halliday introduced me to), and I went thrifting.
We hit up the best spots up north in Gladstone. First was the DAV which I always score excellent finds, and this time was no different. I came away with an intricate belt, sequin gold top and vintage dress, which I later found I couldn't fit in (no fitting rooms at DAVs') but will resell for more than i bought it I'm sure.
Second was this slightly more expensive shop called Plato's Closet. There were a number of cute items, but a bit more pricey than I was anticipating so in the end all I found to buy was a gold belt, but since the limit for debit cars was five dollars, I left empty handed.
Third we went to Salvation army and I was more successful there, which isn't usual. I found a navy blue pencil skirt that fits beautifully and a jean high waisted 90's skirt that I'll have to hem, but fit well enough it had to come home with me.
Finally, I went shopping in Terry's give away clothing bags and found a cute jersey dress, mexican peasant top to go with my pencil skirts, and tan bulky sweater that will be nice as it gets cooler.
The things that I was looking for - pencil skirts and wedges - were difficult to find and I think I'll end up ordering my wedges online, after all it isn't the season for them, but I need them for working at the Gap.
I didn't get to Forever 21, and I might go on Sunday since that is where I really wanted to shop. The zipper on the pencil skirt I bought from there a little bit ago (January maybe?) has gotten stuck and I am in need of a casual black pencil skirt, so I'm thinking I should just go back.
Oh, I also want a leopard print cardigan. I saw one at Urban Outfitter's - perfect - a bit grungy, but still chic, although the price tag was too high. A silver sweater. I want that too, all of the one's I saw at thrift stores were too large for taking in properly, but I'm going to get one with my next paycheck, not many worries there.
I'm thinking of making Tuesdays a "tips" day and maybe having Fridays a "I'm obsessed with..." day. We shall see...
Before lunch I finished packing the remaining orders needed for the next two weeks and then post lunch/nap I printed the silver layer of the calender.
At the end of the day Brady and I talked about a poster he has in mind for the Land of Nod - something based off my wood type piece - that I'll get to work on maybe the week after next. Finally some typesetting. I've been itching to get my hands back in those drawers.
Even though there was a show going on at the Pistol, I can't say I was too interested and instead Halliday, Terry (an awesome girl Halliday introduced me to), and I went thrifting.
We hit up the best spots up north in Gladstone. First was the DAV which I always score excellent finds, and this time was no different. I came away with an intricate belt, sequin gold top and vintage dress, which I later found I couldn't fit in (no fitting rooms at DAVs') but will resell for more than i bought it I'm sure.
Second was this slightly more expensive shop called Plato's Closet. There were a number of cute items, but a bit more pricey than I was anticipating so in the end all I found to buy was a gold belt, but since the limit for debit cars was five dollars, I left empty handed.
Third we went to Salvation army and I was more successful there, which isn't usual. I found a navy blue pencil skirt that fits beautifully and a jean high waisted 90's skirt that I'll have to hem, but fit well enough it had to come home with me.
Finally, I went shopping in Terry's give away clothing bags and found a cute jersey dress, mexican peasant top to go with my pencil skirts, and tan bulky sweater that will be nice as it gets cooler.
The things that I was looking for - pencil skirts and wedges - were difficult to find and I think I'll end up ordering my wedges online, after all it isn't the season for them, but I need them for working at the Gap.
I didn't get to Forever 21, and I might go on Sunday since that is where I really wanted to shop. The zipper on the pencil skirt I bought from there a little bit ago (January maybe?) has gotten stuck and I am in need of a casual black pencil skirt, so I'm thinking I should just go back.
Oh, I also want a leopard print cardigan. I saw one at Urban Outfitter's - perfect - a bit grungy, but still chic, although the price tag was too high. A silver sweater. I want that too, all of the one's I saw at thrift stores were too large for taking in properly, but I'm going to get one with my next paycheck, not many worries there.
I'm thinking of making Tuesdays a "tips" day and maybe having Fridays a "I'm obsessed with..." day. We shall see...
Finally...
Okay, so I hate going back and writing updates, I need to get in the swing of writing every morning instead of a week after. So instead of writing a whole post for every two days or so, like I've been intending, here is a choppy yet full update from the last week.
Here is a quick recap of the last week:
- Was hired at the Gap after an interview (pwned it) and had Urban Outfitters fall over themselves to get me into an interview (semi pwned it, if only I could capture that hipster spirit).
- Following day had JCrew ask me in for an interview, pwned that one too.
- Possible manager (keyholder) position to be had at Gap.
- Power went out - candles?
- Started illustration project - chose "redneck" as slang term
- Poster for Hearts of Darkness
- Date with guy from Craigslist - hails from a small town in Nebraska, a little too into politics...
- Hot haircut then rockabilly night. Now I look like I'm over 18; plus no more split ends (yey!).
- Going through too much eyeliner phase
- Cut Copy, LCD Soundsystem, Rolling Stones
- Power and Light District - stinks!
- New bar in West Bottoms, ran into Brady, again....
- American Royal time! BBQ weekend is fast approaching.
- Typesetting! (Coming soon). Printing calenders for now.
- Card stuffing - gigantic christmas orders.
- Collaboration with Eric (Coming soon)
- Adam (V.) to be visiting - next week ?!?!
- West Bottoms bike rides and evenings "porching it" with stuffed peppers wrapped in bacon (omg!)
- Lost inch and a half from hips - tuna based diet is working
- Oh, and riding my bike to work, that helps too.
Here is a quick recap of the last week:
- Was hired at the Gap after an interview (pwned it) and had Urban Outfitters fall over themselves to get me into an interview (semi pwned it, if only I could capture that hipster spirit).
- Following day had JCrew ask me in for an interview, pwned that one too.
- Possible manager (keyholder) position to be had at Gap.
- Power went out - candles?
- Started illustration project - chose "redneck" as slang term
- Poster for Hearts of Darkness
- Date with guy from Craigslist - hails from a small town in Nebraska, a little too into politics...
- Hot haircut then rockabilly night. Now I look like I'm over 18; plus no more split ends (yey!).
- Going through too much eyeliner phase
- Cut Copy, LCD Soundsystem, Rolling Stones
- Power and Light District - stinks!
- New bar in West Bottoms, ran into Brady, again....
- American Royal time! BBQ weekend is fast approaching.
- Typesetting! (Coming soon). Printing calenders for now.
- Card stuffing - gigantic christmas orders.
- Collaboration with Eric (Coming soon)
- Adam (V.) to be visiting - next week ?!?!
- West Bottoms bike rides and evenings "porching it" with stuffed peppers wrapped in bacon (omg!)
- Lost inch and a half from hips - tuna based diet is working
- Oh, and riding my bike to work, that helps too.
Tuesday, September 15, 2009
Hearts of Darkness
More Updates coming, but here is some art.
Poster for a large show coming up later this month. To be silkscreened, but now it is just a digital file. Original heart drawing is a scratchboard image.
Saturday, September 12, 2009
Week in Review - some more
Monday, September 7th
I didn't so much. I think I caught up on Project Runway and worked on my ideas for my Illustration assignment. I talked to Adam(V. as Adam P. is on a roadtrip) for a long time and I want to say I went to Barnes and Nobel, in fact I know I did and I locked myself out of the car. I was feeling pretty low all Monday and couldn't get myself out of it. I moped, watched Golden Girls, and got myself a library card.
The KC library isn't very big although there are lots of branches. I couldn't figure out which on is the central branch, but Halliday tells me I should go to downtown KCK. I checked out a book on Voodoo and a book on Cowboys - like I said. I'm on a cowboy kick.
Tuesday, September 8th
It rained and subsequently I've been covered in bug bites due to mosquitoes breeding and finding me to be extra tasty.
Work was more packaging. Actually, other than the Heidelberg, there has been very little printing in general. We finished the calenders and I figured out what I'm going to get everyone for Christmas. If anyone has a certain poster they'd like, speak up now or forever hold your peace when Christmas time comes.
I also imagined what I'd do to the Pistol if it were my own and thought about how I'm going to take advantage of the platen press the Arts Inkubator is refurbishing. I need to find plates....
Called the bike shop - ol' rusty is finished!
I didn't so much. I think I caught up on Project Runway and worked on my ideas for my Illustration assignment. I talked to Adam(V. as Adam P. is on a roadtrip) for a long time and I want to say I went to Barnes and Nobel, in fact I know I did and I locked myself out of the car. I was feeling pretty low all Monday and couldn't get myself out of it. I moped, watched Golden Girls, and got myself a library card.
The KC library isn't very big although there are lots of branches. I couldn't figure out which on is the central branch, but Halliday tells me I should go to downtown KCK. I checked out a book on Voodoo and a book on Cowboys - like I said. I'm on a cowboy kick.
Tuesday, September 8th
It rained and subsequently I've been covered in bug bites due to mosquitoes breeding and finding me to be extra tasty.
Work was more packaging. Actually, other than the Heidelberg, there has been very little printing in general. We finished the calenders and I figured out what I'm going to get everyone for Christmas. If anyone has a certain poster they'd like, speak up now or forever hold your peace when Christmas time comes.
I also imagined what I'd do to the Pistol if it were my own and thought about how I'm going to take advantage of the platen press the Arts Inkubator is refurbishing. I need to find plates....
Called the bike shop - ol' rusty is finished!
Week in Review - Greaserama 2.0
Sunday, September 6th
Originally, I had intended to go to Greaserama for only one day, but Saturday night, one of the Ship patron's gave me their two day pass.
So after a long walk exploring the West Bottoms with Joe, we went for day two.
The second day wasn't as exciting as the first. There were less people, fewer cars (originally there had been 800) and the bands weren't as good. I missed seeing Halliday by an hour and so Joe and I wandered around until dusk.
I was asked to model with more cars, this time I was wearing a black pencil skirt, black three-quarter length shirt, stockings with a seam up the back, my red cardigan, and my hair looked brilliant - without hairspray at that. I was even asked to do more model work and given a photographer's number for later.
Post Greaserama; Joe and I grabbed mexican and then crashed a wedding happening next door since we were already dresses up. I didn't have any wedding cake (personally that is rude) but I did snake some pineapple and these amazing meatballs that I am kind of wishing I had right now...
Originally, I had intended to go to Greaserama for only one day, but Saturday night, one of the Ship patron's gave me their two day pass.
So after a long walk exploring the West Bottoms with Joe, we went for day two.
The second day wasn't as exciting as the first. There were less people, fewer cars (originally there had been 800) and the bands weren't as good. I missed seeing Halliday by an hour and so Joe and I wandered around until dusk.
I was asked to model with more cars, this time I was wearing a black pencil skirt, black three-quarter length shirt, stockings with a seam up the back, my red cardigan, and my hair looked brilliant - without hairspray at that. I was even asked to do more model work and given a photographer's number for later.
Post Greaserama; Joe and I grabbed mexican and then crashed a wedding happening next door since we were already dresses up. I didn't have any wedding cake (personally that is rude) but I did snake some pineapple and these amazing meatballs that I am kind of wishing I had right now...
Week in Review - Greaserama
Saturday, September 5th
Greaserama. My first rockabilly car show, long overdue. Finally I had a chance to dress up vintage and not be the only one. It took place at Boulevard Drive-in, the same one where I'd seen Inglorious Bastards.
Saturday, I met up with Halliday and we went to Greaserama. Our objective was to arrive by one pm, but we more realistically arrived at two.
I looked smashing. I know I'm saying so myself, but if one can gauge by other's reactions, I stand correct in my opinion. I wore a brown pencil skirt with blue top - red cropped cardigan and gold 1940's-ish wedges. My hair was styled, not to perfection as it has been awhile since I've done rolls, but to satisfaction.
Halliday and I were asked four times to pose with people's cars/each other.
We listened to all of the bands (one an hour between 2:30 and seven) and roamed the lines of cars. There were a few things I was surprised about:
The first being the number of pimped out bicycles. There was almost a whole section dedicated to bikes. Since people were coming from as faraway as California, there was a large camp out section and the bikes overflowed the grass of the area and were interspersed through out the cars. All of the bikes were vintage of course, but it was surprising to see none the less.
The second was the number of families and lack of singles. Almost everyone attending was a family. There were a number of small children ranging from babies to pre-teens. There were almost no ladies not with their man and a few more, but still small amount of men came with out their lady.
The third, and most surprising of the surprises was how few women were dressed up. There were some, but when I say maybe a dozen, I wouldn't be exaggerating. Sure - there was plenty of red lipstick and bandannas, but most women were in jeans and tennis shoes. For some reason I expected there to be more pinups. Maybe I follow too many vintage forums online, but I expected this would be the sort of event where ladies would do their hair and wear adorable dresses/retro fashions. If there is any place to look glamorous, it is at a rockabilly get-together.
About six, Terry, Halliday's friend joined us and just after the last band played we grabbed some Mexican food before parking our car for the night's movies.
The movies were incredibly odd and I fell asleep.
When I arrived home, Joe was downstairs at the Ship (the speakeasy in the basement). It was a rare opening of the joint and Joe introduced me to the folks lounging around. Oddly enough Brady was there with his girlfriend.
Champagne was poured and free drinks offered, an excellent opening to Greaserama.
Greaserama. My first rockabilly car show, long overdue. Finally I had a chance to dress up vintage and not be the only one. It took place at Boulevard Drive-in, the same one where I'd seen Inglorious Bastards.
Saturday, I met up with Halliday and we went to Greaserama. Our objective was to arrive by one pm, but we more realistically arrived at two.
I looked smashing. I know I'm saying so myself, but if one can gauge by other's reactions, I stand correct in my opinion. I wore a brown pencil skirt with blue top - red cropped cardigan and gold 1940's-ish wedges. My hair was styled, not to perfection as it has been awhile since I've done rolls, but to satisfaction.
Halliday and I were asked four times to pose with people's cars/each other.
We listened to all of the bands (one an hour between 2:30 and seven) and roamed the lines of cars. There were a few things I was surprised about:
The first being the number of pimped out bicycles. There was almost a whole section dedicated to bikes. Since people were coming from as faraway as California, there was a large camp out section and the bikes overflowed the grass of the area and were interspersed through out the cars. All of the bikes were vintage of course, but it was surprising to see none the less.
The second was the number of families and lack of singles. Almost everyone attending was a family. There were a number of small children ranging from babies to pre-teens. There were almost no ladies not with their man and a few more, but still small amount of men came with out their lady.
The third, and most surprising of the surprises was how few women were dressed up. There were some, but when I say maybe a dozen, I wouldn't be exaggerating. Sure - there was plenty of red lipstick and bandannas, but most women were in jeans and tennis shoes. For some reason I expected there to be more pinups. Maybe I follow too many vintage forums online, but I expected this would be the sort of event where ladies would do their hair and wear adorable dresses/retro fashions. If there is any place to look glamorous, it is at a rockabilly get-together.
About six, Terry, Halliday's friend joined us and just after the last band played we grabbed some Mexican food before parking our car for the night's movies.
The movies were incredibly odd and I fell asleep.
When I arrived home, Joe was downstairs at the Ship (the speakeasy in the basement). It was a rare opening of the joint and Joe introduced me to the folks lounging around. Oddly enough Brady was there with his girlfriend.
Champagne was poured and free drinks offered, an excellent opening to Greaserama.
Week in Review
Thursday, September 3rd/ Friday, September 4th
Thursday at work was spent packaging more orders.
Later on Adam called and picked me up to go to Kurt and Cody's cousin's house in Overland Park; a Kansas suburb of KCMO.
Adam was incredibly jealous of my digs at the Pistol and probably would have jumped me for them had he not been on the first leg of his two and a half month roadtrip.
I went over to Kurt and Cody's Aunt's. Adam, the twins, their cousins, and I hung out until late sitting around a bonfire telling stories and shootin' the shit. Adam and the twins are on a few month roadtrip across the U.S. From Kansas City they went to Saint Louis to Chicago and on into Michigan.
I ended up spending the night and after a large, well made breakfast, Adam packed the van and the guys took me home. They reiterated how jealous they were of living at the Pistol and we tried to imagine the greatness that could be if such a place existed in Portland (at that rental price of course, ha, a girl can dream)
The rest of the day was spent in bed since I was sick as a dog, but I did pry myself out for a few hours to enjoy First Friday with Halliday.
Thursday at work was spent packaging more orders.
Later on Adam called and picked me up to go to Kurt and Cody's cousin's house in Overland Park; a Kansas suburb of KCMO.
Adam was incredibly jealous of my digs at the Pistol and probably would have jumped me for them had he not been on the first leg of his two and a half month roadtrip.
I went over to Kurt and Cody's Aunt's. Adam, the twins, their cousins, and I hung out until late sitting around a bonfire telling stories and shootin' the shit. Adam and the twins are on a few month roadtrip across the U.S. From Kansas City they went to Saint Louis to Chicago and on into Michigan.
I ended up spending the night and after a large, well made breakfast, Adam packed the van and the guys took me home. They reiterated how jealous they were of living at the Pistol and we tried to imagine the greatness that could be if such a place existed in Portland (at that rental price of course, ha, a girl can dream)
The rest of the day was spent in bed since I was sick as a dog, but I did pry myself out for a few hours to enjoy First Friday with Halliday.
Thursday, September 10, 2009
Monday, September 7, 2009
I guess this is part of moving on...
I've been real busy/down lately and I'll update what I've done the weekend, probably sometime tomorrow.
It is finally settling in. Adam and I aren't together and it isn't the end of the world, but I sure do miss him. Kansas City is lonely, but Portland is too and honestly, sometimes that's life.
My heart hurts right now and I'm not really sure what do about it. Wait? Of course. I don't really have any other option. I've made alot of decisions for good or bad, and well... give it sometime and we shall see where they lead me.
God - I feel like you have something in store for me - wanna give me a clue sometime soon, because right now I feel pretty lost.
It is finally settling in. Adam and I aren't together and it isn't the end of the world, but I sure do miss him. Kansas City is lonely, but Portland is too and honestly, sometimes that's life.
My heart hurts right now and I'm not really sure what do about it. Wait? Of course. I don't really have any other option. I've made alot of decisions for good or bad, and well... give it sometime and we shall see where they lead me.
God - I feel like you have something in store for me - wanna give me a clue sometime soon, because right now I feel pretty lost.
Thursday, September 3, 2009
Museums and jobs
Guess who is in town?
If you guessed my old friend Adam Poolman, you'd be correct (and if you guessed his roommates Kurt and Cody - bonus points).
I woke up and wasted time listening to an audio book until I got a call from Adam. He invited me to meet him and the fellas at the Nelson-Atkins museum and then hangout from there. As I've never been to the Nelson-Atkins andit is very near the plaza (which is where I needed to do more job application rounds) it was like hitting two birds with one stone. We agreed to meet up at 1:45.
The Nelson Atkins is Kansas City's largest and best art museum, well maybe not best, but most classic. Surprisingly, it is free with a suggested "donation" box at the entrance, which I didn't see til I left, so it was free.
The collection was impressive, well for what I expected there to be. The layout was excellent; a literal floorplan of art history smoothly transitioning from one movement to the next - starting in ancient egyptian and ending in cubist/modernist.
The four of us probably spent three hours looking through the museum, mostly focusing on the first floor and the American art section of the second. My favorite pieces were on the second - one called "Brutality" then a selection of works by Thomas Hart Benton - oh and this one was great too, but then I'm totally digging cowboy art right now.
If you guessed my old friend Adam Poolman, you'd be correct (and if you guessed his roommates Kurt and Cody - bonus points).
I woke up and wasted time listening to an audio book until I got a call from Adam. He invited me to meet him and the fellas at the Nelson-Atkins museum and then hangout from there. As I've never been to the Nelson-Atkins andit is very near the plaza (which is where I needed to do more job application rounds) it was like hitting two birds with one stone. We agreed to meet up at 1:45.
The Nelson Atkins is Kansas City's largest and best art museum, well maybe not best, but most classic. Surprisingly, it is free with a suggested "donation" box at the entrance, which I didn't see til I left, so it was free.
The collection was impressive, well for what I expected there to be. The layout was excellent; a literal floorplan of art history smoothly transitioning from one movement to the next - starting in ancient egyptian and ending in cubist/modernist.
The four of us probably spent three hours looking through the museum, mostly focusing on the first floor and the American art section of the second. My favorite pieces were on the second - one called "Brutality" then a selection of works by Thomas Hart Benton - oh and this one was great too, but then I'm totally digging cowboy art right now.
I left Adam and Co. around four because I was a mix of staving and in need of picking up applications. I hit the Gap, J.Crew, Anthropologie, and Urban Outfitters; all in the Plaza. All I did was look smashing, introduce myself to some managers and collect applications.
Originally, I had planned on meeting back up with Adam for dinner, but I was so hungry, I couldn't wait and instead visited Halliday at Teadrops and ate a salad.
Wednesday, September 2, 2009
Fall Fashions
It is that time of the year, fall. Granted the weather is still summery, but the best part of the wardrobe season is upon us.
Pumps are the shoe of the season (as opposed to flats in spring, boots in winter, sandals in summer) and the weather tolerates - possibly my most favorite article of clothing ever - sweaters. Nothing says fall like a pencil skirt, light sweater and cardigan.
The other benefit to fall is the weather can tolerate all of the layers that vintage dressing requires. Winter is too cold to worry about vintage trimmings - who can wear skirts when their legs are freezing? Summer is too hot and spring, well for whatever reason I just don't have the hankering, probably because most of my retro inspired clothing is for fall.
But back to fall fashions.
I love tights. Last season it was the trend to layer a solid color (say plum or burgundy) under a patterned black or brown. I loved this since it makes the wearer seem as though they are wearing fancy patterned tights, but in reality are playing a trick. Personally, the patterned tights are to delicate to wear alone anyway, so the second layer is not only insulating, but prevents easy tears in the decorative pair.
I'm not sure what the trend will be this year, and I doubt I actually find out anytime soon, since I don't watch the runways, am too poor to buy magazines, and don't have a Nordstrom near me (which is where I usually take my cues from).
I'm told plum is going to be in again, but you know - it seems like a remnant from last year that the consumer is enjoying more than a product out of the fashion scene. I have my bets on Mustard, Burnt Sienna, Navy Blue, Burgundy, and Cranberry. Mad Men has been a big fashion inspiration and so I think many of the colors will be drawn from the corporate palette of the sixties (which I believe is why we're seeing Burnt Sienna and Mustard). However, this year's earthy colors seem more subdued than last year's jewel tones - maybe a reflection of the economy?
Pumps are the shoe of the season (as opposed to flats in spring, boots in winter, sandals in summer) and the weather tolerates - possibly my most favorite article of clothing ever - sweaters. Nothing says fall like a pencil skirt, light sweater and cardigan.
The other benefit to fall is the weather can tolerate all of the layers that vintage dressing requires. Winter is too cold to worry about vintage trimmings - who can wear skirts when their legs are freezing? Summer is too hot and spring, well for whatever reason I just don't have the hankering, probably because most of my retro inspired clothing is for fall.
But back to fall fashions.
I love tights. Last season it was the trend to layer a solid color (say plum or burgundy) under a patterned black or brown. I loved this since it makes the wearer seem as though they are wearing fancy patterned tights, but in reality are playing a trick. Personally, the patterned tights are to delicate to wear alone anyway, so the second layer is not only insulating, but prevents easy tears in the decorative pair.
I'm not sure what the trend will be this year, and I doubt I actually find out anytime soon, since I don't watch the runways, am too poor to buy magazines, and don't have a Nordstrom near me (which is where I usually take my cues from).
I'm told plum is going to be in again, but you know - it seems like a remnant from last year that the consumer is enjoying more than a product out of the fashion scene. I have my bets on Mustard, Burnt Sienna, Navy Blue, Burgundy, and Cranberry. Mad Men has been a big fashion inspiration and so I think many of the colors will be drawn from the corporate palette of the sixties (which I believe is why we're seeing Burnt Sienna and Mustard). However, this year's earthy colors seem more subdued than last year's jewel tones - maybe a reflection of the economy?
I have much of my wardrobe now, although some items have been falling apart and are in need of replacement - my black wedges, flats, belt, etc - things I wear the most. Eventually I'll need tights because I'm bound to rip the pair I have, but I'll cross that bridge when I come to it. I really want a pair of jedi/riding boots, but I don't have the calves to support them or maybe better said, I have too much calves to support them. Ah well.
p.s. I love those teal heels. I can't find them in teal in my size, however Zappos has them in black. Paycheck? Hmm, maybe savings....
Tuesday, September 1, 2009
Back at the Press
Monday, August 31st
First day back to school - if I'd been in Portland that is.
Instead, I worked on my scratchboards, job applications, looked for cracks on the inside of my eyelids, and cleaned like a bat out of hell. I made the Pistol shine. There must be a gallon of Murphy oil on all this wood.
Oh, and I started my West Bottoms (Top of the Bottoms) sketchbook. We'll see how that goes.
Today
Since today is the first of the month, today is also the first of my new regiment - counting calories, waking up early, and exercise. I've stocked up on healthy foods and am in the process of getting my bike fixed, this is bound to work.
I arrived at work at ten, and it felt like I'd never left, except for the fact my water bottle had gone missing that there were some changes to the decor. I packaged orders all day which was fine, there really wasn't anything to print.
I talked to Brady and we decided I will be working three to four days, two paid and two not. Eric's hiring has made it so I couldn't get my original three, but the press he operates cranks out 2000 prints per hour(going slow), so I can't argue his presence. For now, I will probably do a fair amount of order filling, because they are inbetween print jobs. However, I proposed the idea, and Brady and I are going to attempt to catalogue his type at some point. It'll give me something to do and help him in the long run - meanwhile I will be free to fondle the type and get may hands on everything from A to Z.
Tomorrow I don't have work since we are adjusting to the new schedule, but Thursday I do, and maybe Friday since it is First Friday.
After work I came home, took a nap and then started cleaning some more in an attempt to make this place presentable since Eric said he was going to come over for some dinner and the show.
He arrived around 8 and I had made chili and green beans (mostly because that is all I have). We talked about Art and Hammerpress until the show started. Eventually his friend joined us after the auction ended next door and she enjoyed the chili as well.
It was a good night and I feel like I'm back in the charmed (maybe cursed?) groove of the Pistol.
First day back to school - if I'd been in Portland that is.
Instead, I worked on my scratchboards, job applications, looked for cracks on the inside of my eyelids, and cleaned like a bat out of hell. I made the Pistol shine. There must be a gallon of Murphy oil on all this wood.
Oh, and I started my West Bottoms (Top of the Bottoms) sketchbook. We'll see how that goes.
Today
Since today is the first of the month, today is also the first of my new regiment - counting calories, waking up early, and exercise. I've stocked up on healthy foods and am in the process of getting my bike fixed, this is bound to work.
I arrived at work at ten, and it felt like I'd never left, except for the fact my water bottle had gone missing that there were some changes to the decor. I packaged orders all day which was fine, there really wasn't anything to print.
I talked to Brady and we decided I will be working three to four days, two paid and two not. Eric's hiring has made it so I couldn't get my original three, but the press he operates cranks out 2000 prints per hour(going slow), so I can't argue his presence. For now, I will probably do a fair amount of order filling, because they are inbetween print jobs. However, I proposed the idea, and Brady and I are going to attempt to catalogue his type at some point. It'll give me something to do and help him in the long run - meanwhile I will be free to fondle the type and get may hands on everything from A to Z.
Tomorrow I don't have work since we are adjusting to the new schedule, but Thursday I do, and maybe Friday since it is First Friday.
After work I came home, took a nap and then started cleaning some more in an attempt to make this place presentable since Eric said he was going to come over for some dinner and the show.
He arrived around 8 and I had made chili and green beans (mostly because that is all I have). We talked about Art and Hammerpress until the show started. Eventually his friend joined us after the auction ended next door and she enjoyed the chili as well.
It was a good night and I feel like I'm back in the charmed (maybe cursed?) groove of the Pistol.
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