Geeks & Games

I grew up playing video games - (a bit unusual for my generation). I had multiple atari's, and my dad always figured we should know computers, so we had "the latest" computers of the time, featuring 4 colours.  The games were very basic, and the characters left much to the imagination. But I now find myself drawn to what's become known as 8-bit graphics. Its that old-school, blocky characters (think early mario or zelda).

I'm creating a plastic-canvas iPad case. This is the pattern I designed.

The great thing is, there are many ways that these can be incorporated into an art project. Quilting & cross-stitching both use the square as a starting shape. I've also noticed an increase in "geeky culture". Theres now clothing and accessories designed for adults. While I may not be comfortable enough to wear it, I admire the style.

I attended a printmaking workshop last year. This was one of the prints I created.

Imaginism Studios

Imaginism Studios is a group of highly talented artists that specialize in pre-production visualizations and children's book illustrations. They're also running a really cool artist school called Schoolism. These artists have worked for the likes of Disney, Sony, and Warner. Bobbi Chu has written an awesome book on how to become an artist called "The Perfect Bait" (available for download from the iTunes app store). I love pictures that tell a story, and these guys are pros!

They also have an app that allows you to download their printed sketchbooks; I've picked up a few of them. I love seeing the raw sketches, and learning about what the artist was doing while they were sketching.

You know what else is awesome? They're based in CANADA! Toronto, actually. But still cool.

Where do you get your ideas?

There are many news sites and blogs I follow and check on a regular basis.

Photojojo: They're in the business of making photography fun. They send newsletters with nifty photo assignments, and have a marvelous crafty book showing what you can do with the photos after you've taken them. Many of my GD11 photo assignments are inspired by them. Their photo store has tons of cool gadgets too!

Petapixel: News on photography, interviews with photographers. Their blog is always interesting.

The Fox Is Black: This site sparked the idea for creating my blog. Features artists and designers.

Pugly Pixel: I love this blogs tutorials! And the posts are on design and photography.

Curbly: I was recently introduced to this do-it-yourself design site. There's many projects I'm interested in trying.