http://www.clarklovesme.com Clark Loves Me Mon, 27 May 2013 00:35:42 +0000 http://www.clarklovesme.com en http://www.clarklovesme.com/Anna-Lappe http://www.clarklovesme.com/following/clarklovesme.com/Anna-Lappe Mon, 27 May 2013 00:35:42 +0000 Clark Loves Me 5206898 Shifting The Paradigm On Sustainable Agriculture with Shifting The Paradigm On Sustainable Agriculture with http://www.clarklovesme.com/Charles-Youel http://www.clarklovesme.com/following/clarklovesme.com/Charles-Youel Thu, 23 May 2013 18:17:15 +0000 Clark Loves Me 3469901 What Happens When Your Vision Becomes Real? Charles Youel founder of ARTCRANK knows. A Visual & Written Essay by ClArk PAtrick. <img src="http://payload58.cargocollective.com/1/7/229796/3469901/_B6E7191editweb_9.jpg" width="650" height="975" width_o="650" height_o="975" src_o="http://payload58.cargocollective.com/1/7/229796/3469901/_B6E7191editweb_9_o.jpg" data-mid="21792937" border="0" align="left"/> Charles looking dapper as per usual. <img src="http://payload58.cargocollective.com/1/7/229796/3469901/_B6E7003editweb.jpg" width="650" height="885" width_o="650" height_o="885" src_o="http://payload58.cargocollective.com/1/7/229796/3469901/_B6E7003editweb_o.jpg" data-mid="21792694" border="0" align="left"/> Charles at the office taking care of business! <img src="http://payload58.cargocollective.com/1/7/229796/3469901/_B6E7016editweb.jpg" width="650" height="824" width_o="650" height_o="824" src_o="http://payload58.cargocollective.com/1/7/229796/3469901/_B6E7016editweb_o.jpg" data-mid="21792695" border="0" align="left"/> ARTCRANK poster for the 2010 San Francisco show hanging on the wall of Charles's office. <img src="http://payload58.cargocollective.com/1/7/229796/3469901/_B6E7018editweb.jpg" width="650" height="806" width_o="650" height_o="806" src_o="http://payload58.cargocollective.com/1/7/229796/3469901/_B6E7018editweb_o.jpg" data-mid="21792696" border="0" align="left"/> Official ARTCRANK adult beverage glasses. Party. <img src="http://payload58.cargocollective.com/1/7/229796/3469901/_B6E7025editweb.jpg" width="650" height="417" width_o="650" height_o="417" src_o="http://payload58.cargocollective.com/1/7/229796/3469901/_B6E7025editweb_o.jpg" data-mid="21792697" border="0" align="left"/> Posters for shows from around the world. Awesome. <img src="http://payload58.cargocollective.com/1/7/229796/3469901/_B6E7057editweb.jpg" width="640" height="841" width_o="640" height_o="841" src_o="http://payload58.cargocollective.com/1/7/229796/3469901/_B6E7057editweb_o.jpg" data-mid="21792714" border="0" align="left"/> Charles repping a little hometown pride. Cycle Minneapolis. True dat. <img src="http://payload58.cargocollective.com/1/7/229796/3469901/_B6E7070editweb.jpg" width="650" height="905" width_o="650" height_o="905" src_o="http://payload58.cargocollective.com/1/7/229796/3469901/_B6E7070editweb_o.jpg" data-mid="21792716" border="0" align="left"/> I use to live in ATX. It's a solid biking city. And a place that knows how to party. <img src="http://payload58.cargocollective.com/1/7/229796/3469901/_B6E7118editweb.jpg" width="650" height="653" width_o="650" height_o="653" src_o="http://payload58.cargocollective.com/1/7/229796/3469901/_B6E7118editweb_o.jpg" data-mid="21792722" border="0" align="left"/> I asked Charles if there was anything that was representative of the poster shows besides the posters themselves... and he pulled out these babies. Poster clips of course! <img src="http://payload58.cargocollective.com/1/7/229796/3469901/_B6E7101editweb.jpg" width="650" height="898" width_o="650" height_o="898" src_o="http://payload58.cargocollective.com/1/7/229796/3469901/_B6E7101editweb_o.jpg" data-mid="21792719" border="0" align="left"/> The custom designed ride. And yes, Charles rides it often. <img src="http://payload58.cargocollective.com/1/7/229796/3469901/_B6E7210editweb.jpg" width="650" height="530" width_o="650" height_o="530" src_o="http://payload58.cargocollective.com/1/7/229796/3469901/_B6E7210editweb_o.jpg" data-mid="21792735" border="0" align="left"/> More Art? Charles and I agree - yes, please!!! <img src="http://payload58.cargocollective.com/1/7/229796/3469901/_B6E7199editweb.jpg" width="650" height="911" width_o="650" height_o="911" src_o="http://payload58.cargocollective.com/1/7/229796/3469901/_B6E7199editweb_o.jpg" data-mid="21792731" border="0" align="left"/> Charles outside his office. A regular guy with an idea, a personal project, a passion, and an artful life that lead him to create the ARTCRANK movement. I feel like everyone already knows about ARTCRANK, but if you don't (don't admit that to anyone and...) check out the website for the full story, background, and information about upcoming events. In short, ARTCRANK is a poster show for bike people. The website explains: Bikes are the world’s most fun, accessible way to get around. Posters are the world’s most fun, accessible art form. ARTCRANK™ brings them together. ARTCRANK is a show of bicycle-inspired poster artwork that introduces people to talented local artists and sends them home with affordable, original works of art. Every ARTCRANK show features posters created by local artists from the host city. Admission is always free, and posters are priced to let everybody take home at least one. It's a simple awesome idea and that's what makes it so great. Charles and I first met in 2008 shortly after I had created my own cycling related personal project called Unite Bike. We met to connect over our intersecting passion for art and cycling. The vision behind my project was slightly different than Charles, but we were both really excited to meet and find ways to work together. Although we didn't end up working directly together after our initial meetings ARTCRANK grew by leaps and bounds and changed Charles life. When we reconnected for this photo shoot it was a really great opportunity for Charles and I to catch up on all the growth his personal project has experienced since it's first poster show in 2007. It's grown so much it has become Charles full time job and has him on the road for much of the year going to events all over the country and aboard. I asked Charles when he first envisioned ARTCRANK if he had hoped his once small personal project would grow into what it has become now. He said, "When I first came up with the idea for ARTCRANK I thought it was something I would do once. I thought it was something I would do for my friends, for fun, and that would be it. I had no idea how big of a response the show would get." Going on to say, "After that first show, since the response was so great, I thought, people really appreciate this... so I'll do it again... and it kept going from there. It's funny because the only possibility I hadn't planned for was the one that has happened since... that it would become as successful as it has." Talking with Charles about ARTCRANK really re-inspired me about how important it is to do the things you love wether or not you know what the outcome will be. It's entirely possible Charles original vision might have only happened once. Maybe only his friends would have shown up and maybe it would have only been something worth doing simply because he wanted to put into the world his creative vision. Charles launched his idea without any expectations of where it would lead, without fear, and without resources simply because he cared enough to make it happen. Creating from that place is the best way to go. When you live and work as an artist you often hope and dream of having your work reach an audience. You want to be successful and make a living from the ideas and art you put out into the world. But, the hard part is that you never know what might connect, when, or why. As an artist you don't get to decide if other people will ever care about what you do or not, but if you love what you do at least you can always come back to that. In case you haven't noticed yet this project is all about the love, and not just about me showing and telling you about all the people I love and why. It's also about helping remind you that if you love an idea enough than you have to do it... no matter what. No matter if it loves you back. Even if you can't imagine how it would ever pay off for you in the future... that's the beautiful point when the world might just give you some real love back. Loving your life, your work, your art, and your people without expectations is hard to do. But, if you can get there the love you put out into the world will shine back on you and your life just might be changed forever. Charles knows it's true. Thanks bud for following your heart, your art, your passion, and keeping your vision alive! Be sure to check out and follow all ARTCRANK news on the inter-webs here: Facebook, Twitter, Flickr, Vimeo <img src="http://payload58.cargocollective.com/1/7/229796/3469901/Unite_Bike_2_lowresweb.jpg" width="650" height="436" width_o="650" height_o="436" src_o="http://payload58.cargocollective.com/1/7/229796/3469901/Unite_Bike_2_lowresweb_o.jpg" data-mid="21866125" border="0" align="left"/> Here is the original 2008 Unite Bike group photo that was made into a poster for the 2009 Minneapolis ARTCRANK show. I worked on the Unite Bike project from 2008-2011. It isn't currently an active project of mine for a number of reasons, but it is something I intend to re-vision and reinitiate someday. What Happens When Your Vision Becomes Real? Charles Youel founder of ARTCRANK knows. A Visual & Written Essay by ClArk PAtrick. Charles looking dapper as per... http://www.clarklovesme.com/Jenny-Dalton http://www.clarklovesme.com/following/clarklovesme.com/Jenny-Dalton Thu, 23 May 2013 18:17:13 +0000 Clark Loves Me 3469897 A Wonderful Reconnection With Jenny Dalton. A Visual & Written Essay by Clarrk Patrrick. <img src="http://payload58.cargocollective.com/1/7/229796/3469897/Images__0614edit_1web.jpg" width="650" height="984" width_o="650" height_o="984" src_o="http://payload58.cargocollective.com/1/7/229796/3469897/Images__0614edit_1web_o.jpg" data-mid="21547207" border="0" align="left"/> Oh, mysterious and magical Jenny. <img src="http://payload58.cargocollective.com/1/7/229796/3469897/Images__0606editweb.jpg" width="650" height="914" width_o="650" height_o="914" src_o="http://payload58.cargocollective.com/1/7/229796/3469897/Images__0606editweb_o.jpg" data-mid="21547205" border="0" align="left"/> Jenny played me a few little numbers. It was wonderful in the afternoon light. <img src="http://payload58.cargocollective.com/1/7/229796/3469897/Images__0624editweb.jpg" width="650" height="856" width_o="650" height_o="856" src_o="http://payload58.cargocollective.com/1/7/229796/3469897/Images__0624editweb_o.jpg" data-mid="21547209" border="0" align="left"/> Dancing fingers with dancing feet. <img src="http://payload58.cargocollective.com/1/7/229796/3469897/Images__0550editweb.jpg" width="650" height="886" width_o="650" height_o="886" src_o="http://payload58.cargocollective.com/1/7/229796/3469897/Images__0550editweb_o.jpg" data-mid="21547201" border="0" align="left"/> Jenny with her new favorite instrument. A childhood throwback. <img src="http://payload58.cargocollective.com/1/7/229796/3469897/Images__0751editweb.jpg" width="650" height="975" width_o="650" height_o="975" src_o="http://payload58.cargocollective.com/1/7/229796/3469897/Images__0751editweb_o.jpg" data-mid="21547210" border="0" align="left"/> As a singer and songwriter... there's always a need for the writing spaces and places. <img src="http://payload58.cargocollective.com/1/7/229796/3469897/Images__0779editweb.jpg" width="650" height="957" width_o="650" height_o="957" src_o="http://payload58.cargocollective.com/1/7/229796/3469897/Images__0779editweb_o.jpg" data-mid="21547214" border="0" align="left"/> One last summer rose to brighten the fall room. <img src="http://payload58.cargocollective.com/1/7/229796/3469897/Images__1024editweb.jpg" width="650" height="910" width_o="650" height_o="910" src_o="http://payload58.cargocollective.com/1/7/229796/3469897/Images__1024editweb_o.jpg" data-mid="21547218" border="0" align="left"/> <img src="http://payload58.cargocollective.com/1/7/229796/3469897/Images__0854editweb.jpg" width="650" height="927" width_o="650" height_o="927" src_o="http://payload58.cargocollective.com/1/7/229796/3469897/Images__0854editweb_o.jpg" data-mid="21547217" border="0" align="left"/> The new and improved Jenny D! On-tour and coming to an awesome town near you! I have been buds with Jenny Dalton for 5 years or so-ish and it seems like our lives track along very similar lines. In the time we've known each other we have each gone through our own ups and downs... always trying to come out the other side just a little bit more wise and humbled - and inspired. When we got together for this shoot we had a total blast hanging out and had a wonderful dinner together. We also talked a lot about where we were at in our careers and in our lives across the board from our current relationships to the things we're most excited about now within our given artistic mediums. One of the things I love about Jenny now more than ever is her renewed spirit and energy towards her passion in music. She's put together an awesome touring schedule, writing all new stuff, putting herself out there in new ways, and doubling down on her reasons for being... living and creating as an artist. I've realized in my own career that we all go through phases in our process of creating and it's wonderful to be able to have creative friends and partners like Jenny who continue on through all the phases good and bad. As I get a bit older I feel like I'm starting to understand further the importants of rough patches or down cycles in ones creative work. Jenny and I talked a lot about this during our shoot because we've been riding similar waves over the years. I've always loved Jenny as a person and really appreciated her music, but I especially love what's she's doing now and have a sense her best work is ahead of her. Wine, cheese, and a million other things always get better with age. I think Jenny and I or both on that track... no overnight stardom over here... just a couple of good friends doing what we do, growing, and by-gosh maybe putting better work out into the world too. In Jenny's case - I know so. XOXO - Lets keep on truckin' Jenny!! Clark Loves You! Jenny Dalton's Website Her Twitter Page Her Facebook Page And here's a track from Jenny's last EP that feels a like a good track for this fall day. We both share a connection with Colorado.... to the mountain top and beyond. Enjoy! A Wonderful Reconnection With Jenny Dalton. A Visual & Written Essay by Clarrk Patrrick. Oh, mysterious and magical Jenny. Jenny played me a few little... http://www.clarklovesme.com/Osama-Esid http://www.clarklovesme.com/following/clarklovesme.com/Osama-Esid Thu, 23 May 2013 18:17:12 +0000 Clark Loves Me 3383822 Inside the mind of Osama Esid. A Visual & Written Essay by Clarx X. Patricx. <img src="http://payload54.cargocollective.com/1/7/229796/3383822/_B6E7283cleaneditweb.jpg" width="650" height="849" width_o="650" height_o="849" src_o="http://payload54.cargocollective.com/1/7/229796/3383822/_B6E7283cleaneditweb_o.jpg" data-mid="21234444" border="0" align="left"/> A portrait of Osama. <img src="http://payload54.cargocollective.com/1/7/229796/3383822/_B6E7267editweb.jpg" width="650" height="975" width_o="650" height_o="975" src_o="http://payload54.cargocollective.com/1/7/229796/3383822/_B6E7267editweb_o.jpg" data-mid="21234440" border="0" align="left"/> Osama praying to the Gods of creative energy and magic. <img src="http://payload54.cargocollective.com/1/7/229796/3383822/_B6E7288editweb.jpg" width="650" height="975" width_o="650" height_o="975" src_o="http://payload54.cargocollective.com/1/7/229796/3383822/_B6E7288editweb_o.jpg" data-mid="21234445" border="0" align="left"/> Behind the scenes. <img src="http://payload54.cargocollective.com/1/7/229796/3383822/_B6E7297editweb.jpg" width="650" height="874" width_o="650" height_o="874" src_o="http://payload54.cargocollective.com/1/7/229796/3383822/_B6E7297editweb_o.jpg" data-mid="21234446" border="0" align="left"/> Osama showing me some of his homemade lighting rigs... impressive stuff. <img src="http://payload54.cargocollective.com/1/7/229796/3383822/_B6E7311editweb.jpg" width="650" height="719" width_o="650" height_o="719" src_o="http://payload54.cargocollective.com/1/7/229796/3383822/_B6E7311editweb_o.jpg" data-mid="21234463" border="0" align="left"/> Got cameras? Osama does... <img src="http://payload54.cargocollective.com/1/7/229796/3383822/_B6E7317editweb.jpg" width="650" height="975" width_o="650" height_o="975" src_o="http://payload54.cargocollective.com/1/7/229796/3383822/_B6E7317editweb_o.jpg" data-mid="21234467" border="0" align="left"/> Shelves of the photo scientist. <img src="http://payload54.cargocollective.com/1/7/229796/3383822/_B6E7314editweb.jpg" width="650" height="898" width_o="650" height_o="898" src_o="http://payload54.cargocollective.com/1/7/229796/3383822/_B6E7314editweb_o.jpg" data-mid="21234466" border="0" align="left"/> Osama's work on the walls. <img src="http://payload54.cargocollective.com/1/7/229796/3383822/_B6E7329editweb.jpg" width="650" height="1033" width_o="650" height_o="1033" src_o="http://payload54.cargocollective.com/1/7/229796/3383822/_B6E7329editweb_o.jpg" data-mid="21234468" border="0" align="left"/> More... <img src="http://payload54.cargocollective.com/1/7/229796/3383822/_B6E7350editweb.jpg" width="650" height="1001" width_o="650" height_o="1001" src_o="http://payload54.cargocollective.com/1/7/229796/3383822/_B6E7350editweb_o.jpg" data-mid="21234470" border="0" align="left"/> More.... <img src="http://payload54.cargocollective.com/1/7/229796/3383822/_B6E7391editweb.jpg" width="650" height="976" width_o="650" height_o="976" src_o="http://payload54.cargocollective.com/1/7/229796/3383822/_B6E7391editweb_o.jpg" data-mid="21234471" border="0" align="left"/> I spent the day with Osama and his daughters. We took a quick snack break from our rigorous day of shooting. <img src="http://payload54.cargocollective.com/1/7/229796/3383822/_B6E7402editweb.jpg" width="650" height="888" width_o="650" height_o="888" src_o="http://payload54.cargocollective.com/1/7/229796/3383822/_B6E7402editweb_o.jpg" data-mid="21234472" border="0" align="left"/> Want a slice? <img src="http://payload54.cargocollective.com/1/7/229796/3383822/_B6E7411editweb.jpg" width="650" height="884" width_o="650" height_o="884" src_o="http://payload54.cargocollective.com/1/7/229796/3383822/_B6E7411editweb_o.jpg" data-mid="21234474" border="0" align="left"/> One of Osama's beautiful, smart, and funny little ladies. <img src="http://payload54.cargocollective.com/1/7/229796/3383822/_B6E7416editweb.jpg" width="650" height="938" width_o="650" height_o="938" src_o="http://payload54.cargocollective.com/1/7/229796/3383822/_B6E7416editweb_o.jpg" data-mid="21234476" border="0" align="left"/> She's got my number. <img src="http://payload54.cargocollective.com/1/7/229796/3383822/_B6E7425editweb.jpg" width="650" height="777" width_o="650" height_o="777" src_o="http://payload54.cargocollective.com/1/7/229796/3383822/_B6E7425editweb_o.jpg" data-mid="21234493" border="0" align="left"/> Fruit face! <img src="http://payload54.cargocollective.com/1/7/229796/3383822/_B6E7461editweb.jpg" width="650" height="975" width_o="650" height_o="975" src_o="http://payload54.cargocollective.com/1/7/229796/3383822/_B6E7461editweb_o.jpg" data-mid="21234498" border="0" align="left"/> More of Osama's prints. (Found under his bed of course!) <img src="http://payload54.cargocollective.com/1/7/229796/3383822/_B6E7468editweb.jpg" width="650" height="839" width_o="650" height_o="839" src_o="http://payload54.cargocollective.com/1/7/229796/3383822/_B6E7468editweb_o.jpg" data-mid="21234499" border="0" align="left"/> Hello Kitty. Hello portfolio. <img src="http://payload54.cargocollective.com/1/7/229796/3383822/_B6E7470editweb.jpg" width="650" height="864" width_o="650" height_o="864" src_o="http://payload54.cargocollective.com/1/7/229796/3383822/_B6E7470editweb_o.jpg" data-mid="21234501" border="0" align="left"/> Anywhere in Osama's house you can find a print... <img src="http://payload54.cargocollective.com/1/7/229796/3383822/_B6E7523editweb.jpg" width="650" height="975" width_o="650" height_o="975" src_o="http://payload54.cargocollective.com/1/7/229796/3383822/_B6E7523editweb_o.jpg" data-mid="21234502" border="0" align="left"/> Oh, hello buddy.... always time for a good laugh. <img src="http://payload54.cargocollective.com/1/7/229796/3383822/_B6E7556editweb.jpg" width="650" height="858" width_o="650" height_o="858" src_o="http://payload54.cargocollective.com/1/7/229796/3383822/_B6E7556editweb_o.jpg" data-mid="21234503" border="0" align="left"/> "Hold on, a quick call." <img src="http://payload54.cargocollective.com/1/7/229796/3383822/_B6E7565editweb.jpg" width="650" height="919" width_o="650" height_o="919" src_o="http://payload54.cargocollective.com/1/7/229796/3383822/_B6E7565editweb_o.jpg" data-mid="21234504" border="0" align="left"/> At the end of the day Osama's talent extends far beyond photography.... These little munchkins have one hell of a father too. So........... where to begin when explaining the magic of Osama? Well, I guess I could start by saying that the first time we met I loved this guy and I loved his work. Osama has a huge amount of energy- positive energy. His mind is constantly turning and he loves telling you about what projects he's working on, what he's thinking about, showing you work he's done in the past, and always asking if you'd like him to lend you some of his homemade camera equipment. His generosity is amazing. The first day I met him he offered to lend me thousands of dollars of stuff because he loves photography that much-- and he wants the world to have more art in it. Osama has developed a name for himself in the fine-art photo world with his work showing in galleries around the globe like at the: Kashya Hildebrand Gallery, Universe In Universe Gallery exhibitions, and Masasam Gallery, but when he talks about his work his successes are the last thing he might mention because he's way too excited telling you about a new camera he's building or a new technique he's working on. His focus is single-mindedly on exploring the world through the camera. Osama doesn't know what's going on in the photo-world scene, he doesn't follow the latest blogs, or trending news, because he's too busy creating and spreading his positive energy to the world. I know way too many photographers now who are focused on the negative aspects of our business and art, but Osama doesn't have time or space for that in his mind. Beyond the insane amount of positive energy this guy puts out into the world- his work is truly amazing as well. He's a master of old-school techniques and his studio is really like a mad scientist laboratory. He builds his own cameras, lenses, lights, and everything else you could imagine needed in the photographic process. One of his bodies of work was created by hand coloring all of the final images. The final images are amazing! That type of dedication is truly inspiring to me. I hope that Osama and I can be friends, creative buddies, and positive energy producers for a long time together because I definitely love this guy and his inspiring work. Thanks Osama for the love you put into your work and your life. You're making an impact. (And I know I need to get over to the studio more often... working on it!!!) Please, please take a moment to check out some of his amazing imagery here: Osama's Portfolio Also, check out his cool studio here: A video of Osama's studio Inside the mind of Osama Esid. A Visual & Written Essay by Clarx X. Patricx. A portrait of Osama. Osama praying to the Gods of creative energy and magic. ... http://www.clarklovesme.com/Scott-Baumgartner http://www.clarklovesme.com/following/clarklovesme.com/Scott-Baumgartner Thu, 23 May 2013 18:17:10 +0000 Clark Loves Me 3442080 In the studio with Scott Baumgartner. A Visual & Written Essay by Clarkus A. Patrick. <img src="http://payload57.cargocollective.com/1/7/229796/3442080/_B6E4583editweb.jpg" width="650" height="835" width_o="650" height_o="835" src_o="http://payload57.cargocollective.com/1/7/229796/3442080/_B6E4583editweb_o.jpg" data-mid="19109303" border="0" align="left"/> Scott holding one of his hundreds of handmade sculptural objects that he has spend more than 3 years creating. <img src="http://payload57.cargocollective.com/1/7/229796/3442080/_B6E4467edit_3web.jpg" width="650" height="975" width_o="650" height_o="975" src_o="http://payload57.cargocollective.com/1/7/229796/3442080/_B6E4467edit_3web_o.jpg" data-mid="19109259" border="0" align="left"/> <img src="http://payload57.cargocollective.com/1/7/229796/3442080/_B6E4471edit_4web.jpg" width="650" height="975" width_o="650" height_o="975" src_o="http://payload57.cargocollective.com/1/7/229796/3442080/_B6E4471edit_4web_o.jpg" data-mid="19109260" border="0" align="left"/> <img src="http://payload57.cargocollective.com/1/7/229796/3442080/_B6E4489edit_2web.jpg" width="650" height="1002" width_o="650" height_o="1002" src_o="http://payload57.cargocollective.com/1/7/229796/3442080/_B6E4489edit_2web_o.jpg" data-mid="19109263" border="0" align="left"/> <img src="http://payload57.cargocollective.com/1/7/229796/3442080/_B6E4498editweb.jpg" width="650" height="429" width_o="650" height_o="429" src_o="http://payload57.cargocollective.com/1/7/229796/3442080/_B6E4498editweb_o.jpg" data-mid="19109265" border="0" align="left"/> A grouping of Scott's extra-worldly objects in a set to be photographed. <img src="http://payload57.cargocollective.com/1/7/229796/3442080/_B6E4503editweb.jpg" width="650" height="608" width_o="650" height_o="608" src_o="http://payload57.cargocollective.com/1/7/229796/3442080/_B6E4503editweb_o.jpg" data-mid="19109266" border="0" align="left"/> Scott at work on a new stain glass window. <img src="http://payload57.cargocollective.com/1/7/229796/3442080/_B6E4508editweb.jpg" width="650" height="893" width_o="650" height_o="893" src_o="http://payload57.cargocollective.com/1/7/229796/3442080/_B6E4508editweb_o.jpg" data-mid="19109275" border="0" align="left"/> Insane cuts for the layout. <img src="http://payload57.cargocollective.com/1/7/229796/3442080/_B6E4515editweb.jpg" width="650" height="975" width_o="650" height_o="975" src_o="http://payload57.cargocollective.com/1/7/229796/3442080/_B6E4515editweb_o.jpg" data-mid="19109276" border="0" align="left"/> <img src="http://payload57.cargocollective.com/1/7/229796/3442080/_B6E4532editweb.jpg" width="650" height="975" width_o="650" height_o="975" src_o="http://payload57.cargocollective.com/1/7/229796/3442080/_B6E4532editweb_o.jpg" data-mid="19109292" border="0" align="left"/> <img src="http://payload57.cargocollective.com/1/7/229796/3442080/_B6E4544editweb.jpg" width="650" height="975" width_o="650" height_o="975" src_o="http://payload57.cargocollective.com/1/7/229796/3442080/_B6E4544editweb_o.jpg" data-mid="19109293" border="0" align="left"/> Hand-built and hand-carved wood frames for Scott's photographic series specifically of the handmade sculptures. <img src="http://payload57.cargocollective.com/1/7/229796/3442080/_B6E4546editweb.jpg" width="650" height="809" width_o="650" height_o="809" src_o="http://payload57.cargocollective.com/1/7/229796/3442080/_B6E4546editweb_o.jpg" data-mid="19109294" border="0" align="left"/> Close-up of the many layers of paint and finish on the frames. <img src="http://payload57.cargocollective.com/1/7/229796/3442080/_B6E4557editweb.jpg" width="650" height="417" width_o="650" height_o="417" src_o="http://payload57.cargocollective.com/1/7/229796/3442080/_B6E4557editweb_o.jpg" data-mid="19109295" border="0" align="left"/> The studio. Scott's home. <img src="http://payload57.cargocollective.com/1/7/229796/3442080/_B6E4560editweb.jpg" width="650" height="804" width_o="650" height_o="804" src_o="http://payload57.cargocollective.com/1/7/229796/3442080/_B6E4560editweb_o.jpg" data-mid="19109296" border="0" align="left"/> Tools of the trade. <img src="http://payload57.cargocollective.com/1/7/229796/3442080/_B6E4569editweb.jpg" width="650" height="914" width_o="650" height_o="914" src_o="http://payload57.cargocollective.com/1/7/229796/3442080/_B6E4569editweb_o.jpg" data-mid="19109298" border="0" align="left"/> <img src="http://payload57.cargocollective.com/1/7/229796/3442080/_B6E4579editweb.jpg" width="650" height="975" width_o="650" height_o="975" src_o="http://payload57.cargocollective.com/1/7/229796/3442080/_B6E4579editweb_o.jpg" data-mid="19109301" border="0" align="left"/> A mosaic Scott made with hand-tumbled and polished stones. <img src="http://payload57.cargocollective.com/1/7/229796/3442080/_B6E4586editweb.jpg" width="650" height="975" width_o="650" height_o="975" src_o="http://payload57.cargocollective.com/1/7/229796/3442080/_B6E4586editweb_o.jpg" data-mid="19109305" border="0" align="left"/> <img src="http://payload57.cargocollective.com/1/7/229796/3442080/_B6E4527editweb.jpg" width="650" height="760" width_o="650" height_o="760" src_o="http://payload57.cargocollective.com/1/7/229796/3442080/_B6E4527editweb_o.jpg" data-mid="19109328" border="0" align="left"/> Another window in progress. <img src="http://payload57.cargocollective.com/1/7/229796/3442080/_B6E4517editweb.jpg" width="650" height="792" width_o="650" height_o="792" src_o="http://payload57.cargocollective.com/1/7/229796/3442080/_B6E4517editweb_o.jpg" data-mid="19109324" border="0" align="left"/> The hands of the greatest craftsman I know. Oh, Scott. Where do I begin? I’ll start with a bold statement. Scott is without a doubt the most talented craftsman I know. The paintings, sculptures, mosaics, stained glass windows, gardens, and really everything he does are all created from a place very few people understand. The type of care and attention to detail he puts into his work is unprecedented. I first met Scott while living in an artists loft space in St. Paul 5 years ago. The woman in the office said when I moved in, “There’s a very talented artist living on the 5th floor, but he’s kind of a recluse, so it might be hard to get to know him.” I knew right away we’d end up becoming friends. Reclusive people are my kind of folks. It did take a year or so before I actually met Scott, but we connected on our shared passion for photography and have become good friends since then. One of the things that makes Scott different from many other artists I know is that much of, if not all, the work he creates comes from a somewhat dark place. Scott creates to resolve, work through, and process his inner demons. He creates art as a way to get through life, not as a celebration of it. The most amazing thing for me about this is that the work he creates is so beautiful. It’s so hard to believe that his inner demons, fears, and pain could drive the creation of such aesthetically amazing final pieces. I know Scott well enough to know some of his best work was created during his most painful times. Although he has never said this to me, I feel as though his way of dealing with his pain is to create amazing things, things so wonderful you can’t help but appreciate them when they’re done. It’s like a giant fuck-you to everything bad in the world. Creating incredible art punches negativity, sadness, pain, and fear in the face. Scott is a good decade older than I am, but we’re on a similar path. After a certain point in your life there is no turning back from who you are, and what and why, you do what you do. We create in different mediums and for different reasons, but we share at least one common motivation – to envision, create, build, and project beauty into the world. Perhaps the artists’ highest ideal is to help take us all to a beautiful place that we wouldn’t find on our own. Scott’s art can bring you to that place. Scott – I know you suffer for your work, but you’re suffering is the world’s gain and even if it feels like no one else cares or understands what you do and why I deeply appreciate your art. Keep creating. In the studio with Scott Baumgartner. A Visual & Written Essay by Clarkus A. Patrick. Scott holding one of his hundreds of handmade sculptural objects that he... http://www.clarklovesme.com/Stacy-Schwartz-Carl-Atiya-Swanson http://www.clarklovesme.com/following/clarklovesme.com/Stacy-Schwartz-Carl-Atiya-Swanson Thu, 23 May 2013 18:17:07 +0000 Clark Loves Me 3469896 Poetry reading and dinner with Carl Atiya Swanson & Stacy Ann Schwartz. A Visual & Written Essay by Clarkus A. Patrick. <img src="http://payload58.cargocollective.com/1/7/229796/3469896/_B6E6151editweb.jpg" width="650" height="900" width_o="650" height_o="900" src_o="http://payload58.cargocollective.com/1/7/229796/3469896/_B6E6151editweb_o.jpg" data-mid="18786717" border="0" align="left"/> Double trouble. JK. Double awesome! <img src="http://payload58.cargocollective.com/1/7/229796/3469896/_B6E6098editweb.jpg" width="650" height="828" width_o="650" height_o="828" src_o="http://payload58.cargocollective.com/1/7/229796/3469896/_B6E6098editweb_o.jpg" data-mid="18786436" border="0" align="left"/> A portion of Stacy's collection of VIP radness. <img src="http://payload58.cargocollective.com/1/7/229796/3469896/_B6E6099editweb.jpg" width="650" height="787" width_o="650" height_o="787" src_o="http://payload58.cargocollective.com/1/7/229796/3469896/_B6E6099editweb_o.jpg" data-mid="18786511" border="0" align="left"/> Old-timie love. <img src="http://payload58.cargocollective.com/1/7/229796/3469896/_B6E6106editweb.jpg" width="650" height="921" width_o="650" height_o="921" src_o="http://payload58.cargocollective.com/1/7/229796/3469896/_B6E6106editweb_o.jpg" data-mid="18786518" border="0" align="left"/> Stacy's Jack White Holga. The perfect cross-section of music and photo goodness. <img src="http://payload58.cargocollective.com/1/7/229796/3469896/_B6E6108editweb.jpg" width="650" height="975" width_o="650" height_o="975" src_o="http://payload58.cargocollective.com/1/7/229796/3469896/_B6E6108editweb_o.jpg" data-mid="18786522" border="0" align="left"/> An album cover Stacy shot. Big pimpin'. <img src="http://payload58.cargocollective.com/1/7/229796/3469896/_B6E6112editweb.jpg" width="650" height="943" width_o="650" height_o="943" src_o="http://payload58.cargocollective.com/1/7/229796/3469896/_B6E6112editweb_o.jpg" data-mid="18786531" border="0" align="left"/> Oh, hello. <img src="http://payload58.cargocollective.com/1/7/229796/3469896/_B6E6113editweb.jpg" width="650" height="825" width_o="650" height_o="825" src_o="http://payload58.cargocollective.com/1/7/229796/3469896/_B6E6113editweb_o.jpg" data-mid="18786538" border="0" align="left"/> Paraphernalia. Of the photo kind. <img src="http://payload58.cargocollective.com/1/7/229796/3469896/_B6E6126editweb.jpg" width="650" height="839" width_o="650" height_o="839" src_o="http://payload58.cargocollective.com/1/7/229796/3469896/_B6E6126editweb_o.jpg" data-mid="18786547" border="0" align="left"/> The homestead. <img src="http://payload58.cargocollective.com/1/7/229796/3469896/_B6E6134editweb.jpg" width="650" height="932" width_o="650" height_o="932" src_o="http://payload58.cargocollective.com/1/7/229796/3469896/_B6E6134editweb_o.jpg" data-mid="18786674" border="0" align="left"/> Carl. The man. The myth. The legend. <img src="http://payload58.cargocollective.com/1/7/229796/3469896/_B6E6165editweb.jpg" width="650" height="975" width_o="650" height_o="975" src_o="http://payload58.cargocollective.com/1/7/229796/3469896/_B6E6165editweb_o.jpg" data-mid="18786730" border="0" align="left"/> Smiles from the dream team. <img src="http://payload58.cargocollective.com/1/7/229796/3469896/_B6E6176editweb.jpg" width="650" height="813" width_o="650" height_o="813" src_o="http://payload58.cargocollective.com/1/7/229796/3469896/_B6E6176editweb_o.jpg" data-mid="18786742" border="0" align="left"/> What a funny! <img src="http://payload58.cargocollective.com/1/7/229796/3469896/_B6E6195editweb.jpg" width="650" height="840" width_o="650" height_o="840" src_o="http://payload58.cargocollective.com/1/7/229796/3469896/_B6E6195editweb_o.jpg" data-mid="18786755" border="0" align="left"/> Carl and William Seward Burroughs II. Thinkers. <img src="http://payload58.cargocollective.com/1/7/229796/3469896/_B6E6197editweb.jpg" width="650" height="856" width_o="650" height_o="856" src_o="http://payload58.cargocollective.com/1/7/229796/3469896/_B6E6197editweb_o.jpg" data-mid="18786766" border="0" align="left"/> Carl's art in the archives. (Eye painting by Garrett Perry.) <img src="http://payload58.cargocollective.com/1/7/229796/3469896/_B6E6198editweb.jpg" width="650" height="984" width_o="650" height_o="984" src_o="http://payload58.cargocollective.com/1/7/229796/3469896/_B6E6198editweb_o.jpg" data-mid="18786779" border="0" align="left"/> (The woman is a drawing by Egon Schiele in the collection of the Minneapolis Institute of Arts.) <img src="http://payload58.cargocollective.com/1/7/229796/3469896/_B6E6199editweb.jpg" width="650" height="996" width_o="650" height_o="996" src_o="http://payload58.cargocollective.com/1/7/229796/3469896/_B6E6199editweb_o.jpg" data-mid="18786792" border="0" align="left"/> Explaining themes that reoccur in Carl's work. <img src="http://payload58.cargocollective.com/1/7/229796/3469896/_B6E6207editweb.jpg" width="650" height="932" width_o="650" height_o="932" src_o="http://payload58.cargocollective.com/1/7/229796/3469896/_B6E6207editweb_o.jpg" data-mid="18786863" border="0" align="left"/> On the walls. (The Masculine Energy print is by Cave Party.) <img src="http://payload58.cargocollective.com/1/7/229796/3469896/_B6E6241editweb.jpg" width="650" height="780" width_o="650" height_o="780" src_o="http://payload58.cargocollective.com/1/7/229796/3469896/_B6E6241editweb_o.jpg" data-mid="18786874" border="0" align="left"/> On the arms. <img src="http://payload58.cargocollective.com/1/7/229796/3469896/_B6E6264editweb.jpg" width="650" height="812" width_o="650" height_o="812" src_o="http://payload58.cargocollective.com/1/7/229796/3469896/_B6E6264editweb_o.jpg" data-mid="18786921" border="0" align="left"/> Carl reading poetry. I'm super amped to check out his recommendation. <img src="http://payload58.cargocollective.com/1/7/229796/3469896/_B6E6283editweb.jpg" width="650" height="914" width_o="650" height_o="914" src_o="http://payload58.cargocollective.com/1/7/229796/3469896/_B6E6283editweb_o.jpg" data-mid="18786933" border="0" align="left"/> Stacy showing me some images from her published photo book. She's got me beat on that front. Awesome stuff. <img src="http://payload58.cargocollective.com/1/7/229796/3469896/_B6E6291editweb.jpg" width="650" height="871" width_o="650" height_o="871" src_o="http://payload58.cargocollective.com/1/7/229796/3469896/_B6E6291editweb_o.jpg" data-mid="18786949" border="0" align="left"/> Keep on clickin'!! <img src="http://payload58.cargocollective.com/1/7/229796/3469896/_B6E6292editweb.jpg" width="650" height="879" width_o="650" height_o="879" src_o="http://payload58.cargocollective.com/1/7/229796/3469896/_B6E6292editweb_o.jpg" data-mid="18786963" border="0" align="left"/> Where do I begin with these two? Stacy and I have known each other for six-ish years now from being out-and-about in town mostly at music venues and other such happenings. She always had and still has a camera in-tow whenever I see her. When I spent the day with Stacy & Carl I got an even more in-depth view into the insane degree, volume, and depth of projects these two individually and collectively work on. Stacy does: Photos. -- She creates a huge amount of various photo projects in both film based and digital formats, most often with a music focus. Law. -- She has a law degree and works with other creatives on all sorts of legal projects making their lives easier. Records. -- Sometimes she still picks up shifts at the awesome local record store The Electric Fetus. Music Booking. -- She runs a booking agency called Damaged Goods - that works with events like The Stone Arch Bridge Festival, Art-A-Whirl, and Vita.mn's Music & Movies series to book music and entertainment. Edumacation. -- Beyond all that she works at the McNally Smith College of Music. She will be teaching graduate and undergrad classes in music business there in the fall. I'm sure I've left something out, but jeez how much can one person do? (Stacy, don't answer that.) Carl does: Writes. -- As much as possible but with sometimes painfully long gestation periods. (So he says...) He write for Cake In 15, occasionally for mnartists.org, and other outlets. He writes mostly to try and get out the word on what's happening around him, but also to attempt to articulate an experiential world view where the arts are critical and valuable. He loves interviews and interviewing as it is often more interesting to have artists talk about their life and work than simply react to stuff. (Amen brother.) Theater. -- As an actor, writer and administrator, he powers forward his theater company Savage Umbrella. He loves theater because it combines all art forms - visual, physical, aural - and it is a catalyst for conversation and a filter with which to discuss ideas bigger than just ourselves and entertainment. Business. -- Carl is an MBA student at the University of St. Thomas and works at Springboard for the Arts (Check them out!). He knows that artists need to make a living, and the value of art to a creative and growing economy can't be under-estimated. So he's trying to make sure it's not. (Double props here.) PR. -- He sidelines on projects with/for his friends, and spun off a company, Crown & Sparrow - to help promote them. Stacy & Carl together do: Write, organize, and promote Cake In 15. Other stuff. Garden. Bike. Eat. Hang out with each other. And sometimes cook friends like me dinner. Rad. I feel like I should write in greater detail about all of Carl & Stacy's projects, but if you haven't heard of either one of these folks yet... the links above will get you started. And if you're interested in what they're doing - reach out to them and connect. At the core, these two are connectors. Both Stacy & Carl put a huge amount of effort into exploring the people, projects, arts, music, and culture that makes our city and beyond so great. They are explorers on a constant hunt for inspiration to in-turn produce things that inspire. For all that they do there is a type of fluidity behind it. It all fits together. And it makes sense for who they are as people. It's awesome to see a pair work on so many things together and still maintain their own unique characteristics and point of view as well. I feel like these two set the bar for the super couple. Two hyper-productive awesome artists - together. But more than that, my favorite thing about both of them as individuals is their passion and promotion for others in the arts. Sure, Stacy is a dedicated and passionate photographer, but more than that she tirelessly promotes the work of others. And sure, Carl is a deep thinking writer, actor, and theater man, but more than anything he is also a promoter of other artists. They are like a vortex of giver supporters for artists on all levels. We shared a similar sentiment on the evening we hung out for this project - which is that although we don't love all art, music, theater, poetry, photography, painting and on-and-on and so forth - we appreciate that ALL artists care enough to create the work that they do. And that the work by artists that we do love and appreciate is something we'll always find a way to promote to anyone who is willing to listen. So, Stacy and Carl - thank you kindly for going out of your way to find the time, effort, and care - to promote the work of others - more often than not above and beyond the promotion of your own work. The greatest advocates of the arts are also in many cases the greatest artists. Keep on working towards the greatness. Poetry reading and dinner with Carl Atiya Swanson & Stacy Ann Schwartz. A Visual & Written Essay by Clarkus A. Patrick. Double trouble. JK. Double awesome! A... http://www.clarklovesme.com/Karen-O-Bryan http://www.clarklovesme.com/following/clarklovesme.com/Karen-O-Bryan Thu, 23 May 2013 18:17:05 +0000 Clark Loves Me 3469894 Summer chatting with Karen O'Bryan. A Visual & Written Essay by Clarky Patrick. <img src="http://payload58.cargocollective.com/1/7/229796/3469894/_B6E6072editweb.jpg" width="650" height="975" width_o="650" height_o="975" src_o="http://payload58.cargocollective.com/1/7/229796/3469894/_B6E6072editweb_o.jpg" data-mid="18502979" border="0" align="left"/> Painter, jewelry maker, illustrator, and fine artists - Karen O'Bryan looking radiant on a hot blustery summer afternoon. <img src="http://payload58.cargocollective.com/1/7/229796/3469894/_B6E6073edit2web.jpg" width="650" height="956" width_o="650" height_o="956" src_o="http://payload58.cargocollective.com/1/7/229796/3469894/_B6E6073edit2web_o.jpg" data-mid="18502982" border="0" align="left"/> <img src="http://payload58.cargocollective.com/1/7/229796/3469894/_B6E5962editweb.jpg" width="650" height="685" width_o="650" height_o="685" src_o="http://payload58.cargocollective.com/1/7/229796/3469894/_B6E5962editweb_o.jpg" data-mid="18502957" border="0" align="left"/> A few of Karen's new paintings. <img src="http://payload58.cargocollective.com/1/7/229796/3469894/_B6E5961editweb.jpg" width="650" height="706" width_o="650" height_o="706" src_o="http://payload58.cargocollective.com/1/7/229796/3469894/_B6E5961editweb_o.jpg" data-mid="18502954" border="0" align="left"/> Happy fishes. <img src="http://payload58.cargocollective.com/1/7/229796/3469894/_B6E5950editweb.jpg" width="650" height="990" width_o="650" height_o="990" src_o="http://payload58.cargocollective.com/1/7/229796/3469894/_B6E5950editweb_o.jpg" data-mid="18502951" border="0" align="left"/> <img src="http://payload58.cargocollective.com/1/7/229796/3469894/_B6E5978editweb.jpg" width="650" height="954" width_o="650" height_o="954" src_o="http://payload58.cargocollective.com/1/7/229796/3469894/_B6E5978editweb_o.jpg" data-mid="18502958" border="0" align="left"/> Karen at work in her studio. <img src="http://payload58.cargocollective.com/1/7/229796/3469894/_B6E5944editweb.jpg" width="650" height="581" width_o="650" height_o="581" src_o="http://payload58.cargocollective.com/1/7/229796/3469894/_B6E5944editweb_o.jpg" data-mid="18502948" border="0" align="left"/> <img src="http://payload58.cargocollective.com/1/7/229796/3469894/_B6E5984editweb.jpg" width="650" height="832" width_o="650" height_o="832" src_o="http://payload58.cargocollective.com/1/7/229796/3469894/_B6E5984editweb_o.jpg" data-mid="18502960" border="0" align="left"/> A new painting in progress. <img src="http://payload58.cargocollective.com/1/7/229796/3469894/_B6E6006editweb.jpg" width="650" height="814" width_o="650" height_o="814" src_o="http://payload58.cargocollective.com/1/7/229796/3469894/_B6E6006editweb_o.jpg" data-mid="18502964" border="0" align="left"/> Karen showed me around her house. This is a part of a small collection of things she has picked up during her travels. Little creatures and curiosities. <img src="http://payload58.cargocollective.com/1/7/229796/3469894/_B6E5928editweb.jpg" width="650" height="923" width_o="650" height_o="923" src_o="http://payload58.cargocollective.com/1/7/229796/3469894/_B6E5928editweb_o.jpg" data-mid="18503018" border="0" align="left"/> Karen's fiancée likes to collect skulls and other such creepy-ish types of items. Fun! <img src="http://payload58.cargocollective.com/1/7/229796/3469894/_B6E5942editweb.jpg" width="650" height="276" width_o="650" height_o="276" src_o="http://payload58.cargocollective.com/1/7/229796/3469894/_B6E5942editweb_o.jpg" data-mid="18502946" border="0" align="left"/> A sampling of Karen's extensive jewelry work. <img src="http://payload58.cargocollective.com/1/7/229796/3469894/_B6E5937editweb.jpg" width="650" height="818" width_o="650" height_o="818" src_o="http://payload58.cargocollective.com/1/7/229796/3469894/_B6E5937editweb_o.jpg" data-mid="18503019" border="0" align="left"/> I'd wear that. If I were a women. <img src="http://payload58.cargocollective.com/1/7/229796/3469894/_B6E5938editweb.jpg" width="650" height="530" width_o="650" height_o="530" src_o="http://payload58.cargocollective.com/1/7/229796/3469894/_B6E5938editweb_o.jpg" data-mid="18503020" border="0" align="left"/> <img src="http://payload58.cargocollective.com/1/7/229796/3469894/_B6E5939editweb.jpg" width="650" height="805" width_o="650" height_o="805" src_o="http://payload58.cargocollective.com/1/7/229796/3469894/_B6E5939editweb_o.jpg" data-mid="18503023" border="0" align="left"/> More of her jewelry. <img src="http://payload58.cargocollective.com/1/7/229796/3469894/_B6E6028editweb.jpg" width="650" height="929" width_o="650" height_o="929" src_o="http://payload58.cargocollective.com/1/7/229796/3469894/_B6E6028editweb_o.jpg" data-mid="18502969" border="0" align="left"/> Another fun litte critter that a friend made for her. <img src="http://payload58.cargocollective.com/1/7/229796/3469894/_B6E6038editweb.jpg" width="650" height="985" width_o="650" height_o="985" src_o="http://payload58.cargocollective.com/1/7/229796/3469894/_B6E6038editweb_o.jpg" data-mid="18502972" border="0" align="left"/> Light in the studio. <img src="http://payload58.cargocollective.com/1/7/229796/3469894/_B6E6063editweb.jpg" width="650" height="829" width_o="650" height_o="829" src_o="http://payload58.cargocollective.com/1/7/229796/3469894/_B6E6063editweb_o.jpg" data-mid="18502976" border="0" align="left"/> Karen and I had a long conversation about living and working as artists. She had some wonderful thoughts. It was a total pleasure to spend the afternoon will another truly happy person. <img src="http://payload58.cargocollective.com/1/7/229796/3469894/_B6E6079editweb.jpg" width="650" height="932" width_o="650" height_o="932" src_o="http://payload58.cargocollective.com/1/7/229796/3469894/_B6E6079editweb_o.jpg" data-mid="18502984" border="0" align="left"/> One of the reasons I wanted to feature Karen is because I appreciate her work (& blog). I particularly love her paintings. Her work projects a light-hearted, feminine, simple, and classic type of aesthetic to me. I like her use of simple and clean lines, and her color patterns and choices. Her work feels happy. Perhaps her work projects a sense of happy calmness because Karen is that way herself. I think it is often the case that artists naturally create things that are external representations of their internal-selves. It's interesting because in the times I've interacted with Karen in the past she's always seemed to be in a good mood, happy, friendly, and genuinely nice. And I suppose I never thought about it very deeply until we sat down for this project that she acts that way because that is how she feels about her life. She is one of those people who is actually a deeply happy person. Although it's sad to say I think generally speaking, we all know from our friendships and experiences in our own lives - how rare it is to interact with or know someone who is content on another level, in a deeper, more honest, and more humble way. Karen and I talked about a lot during my visit, but perhaps the best part for me about our time together was feeling her happiness - because it exudes from her being - which made me feel better too. That's what real happiness does. It makes other people feel better. It makes the world a better place. Just like happy people - happy art makes the world a better place too. So, Karen, thank you for your wonderful happy art and for the positive energy you spread to the world through your very existence. Merci Beaucoup! You can purchase some of Karen's wonderful work here. Summer chatting with Karen O'Bryan. A Visual & Written Essay by Clarky Patrick. Painter, jewelry maker, illustrator, and fine artists - Karen O'Bryan looking... http://www.clarklovesme.com/Mike-Davis http://www.clarklovesme.com/following/clarklovesme.com/Mike-Davis Thu, 23 May 2013 18:17:02 +0000 Clark Loves Me 3383824 My day party with Mike Davis. A Visual & Written Essay by Clark Dr. Dre Saint Patrica. <img src="http://payload54.cargocollective.com/1/7/229796/3383824/_B6E5289editweb.jpg" width="650" height="924" width_o="650" height_o="924" src_o="http://payload54.cargocollective.com/1/7/229796/3383824/_B6E5289editweb_o.jpg" data-mid="18322711" border="0" align="left"/> Mike D. in the house. Smokin' big killa gettin' high in the Benz. Aka - chilling on the stoooop. <img src="http://payload54.cargocollective.com/1/7/229796/3383824/_B6E5173editweb.jpg" width="650" height="629" width_o="650" height_o="629" src_o="http://payload54.cargocollective.com/1/7/229796/3383824/_B6E5173editweb_o.jpg" data-mid="18322693" border="0" align="left"/> It was kind of hard getting ahold of Mike. His manager keeps him on a short leash. <img src="http://payload54.cargocollective.com/1/7/229796/3383824/_B6E5182editweb.jpg" width="650" height="588" width_o="650" height_o="588" src_o="http://payload54.cargocollective.com/1/7/229796/3383824/_B6E5182editweb_o.jpg" data-mid="18322697" border="0" align="left"/> His secretary was scary too. <img src="http://payload54.cargocollective.com/1/7/229796/3383824/_B6E5184editweb.jpg" width="650" height="738" width_o="650" height_o="738" src_o="http://payload54.cargocollective.com/1/7/229796/3383824/_B6E5184editweb_o.jpg" data-mid="18322698" border="0" align="left"/> Once I found out he was working on the new top secret Avatar 2 logo... I could tell why he's got so much protection. This guy is on top. Big deal kind of business. <img src="http://payload54.cargocollective.com/1/7/229796/3383824/_B6E5192editweb.jpg" width="650" height="725" width_o="650" height_o="725" src_o="http://payload54.cargocollective.com/1/7/229796/3383824/_B6E5192editweb_o.jpg" data-mid="18322699" border="0" align="left"/> Bullet proof glass office. Gangsta. Get off my Mac tower yo. <img src="http://payload54.cargocollective.com/1/7/229796/3383824/_B6E5199editweb.jpg" width="650" height="396" width_o="650" height_o="396" src_o="http://payload54.cargocollective.com/1/7/229796/3383824/_B6E5199editweb_o.jpg" data-mid="18322701" border="0" align="left"/> So, if you're not already familiar with Mike Davis he is one half of the Burlesque Of North America empire. <img src="http://payload54.cargocollective.com/1/7/229796/3383824/_B6E5241editweb.jpg" width="650" height="928" width_o="650" height_o="928" src_o="http://payload54.cargocollective.com/1/7/229796/3383824/_B6E5241editweb_o.jpg" data-mid="18322703" border="0" align="left"/> Pinball in the office. You know how we do. <img src="http://payload54.cargocollective.com/1/7/229796/3383824/_B6E5257editweb.jpg" width="650" height="821" width_o="650" height_o="821" src_o="http://payload54.cargocollective.com/1/7/229796/3383824/_B6E5257editweb_o.jpg" data-mid="18322707" border="0" align="left"/> CO CO CO as in NabiscHo. <img src="http://payload54.cargocollective.com/1/7/229796/3383824/_B6E5309editweb.jpg" width="650" height="885" width_o="650" height_o="885" src_o="http://payload54.cargocollective.com/1/7/229796/3383824/_B6E5309editweb_o.jpg" data-mid="18322852" border="0" align="left"/> Taking a break to talk world domination with another local design maven Dan Black of the Landland crew. <img src="http://payload54.cargocollective.com/1/7/229796/3383824/_B6E5324editweb.jpg" width="650" height="936" width_o="650" height_o="936" src_o="http://payload54.cargocollective.com/1/7/229796/3383824/_B6E5324editweb_o.jpg" data-mid="18322712" border="0" align="left"/> Fresh off the press. Logo Anthology Miniprint. <img src="http://payload54.cargocollective.com/1/7/229796/3383824/_B6E5327editweb.jpg" width="650" height="975" width_o="650" height_o="975" src_o="http://payload54.cargocollective.com/1/7/229796/3383824/_B6E5327editweb_o.jpg" data-mid="18322713" border="0" align="left"/> Bruce Lee style. Karate chop in yo face. Year Of The Dragon print. <img src="http://payload54.cargocollective.com/1/7/229796/3383824/_B6E5331editweb.jpg" width="650" height="956" width_o="650" height_o="956" src_o="http://payload54.cargocollective.com/1/7/229796/3383824/_B6E5331editweb_o.jpg" data-mid="18322716" border="0" align="left"/> Slow down son! Mike D. posters worldwide. <img src="http://payload54.cargocollective.com/1/7/229796/3383824/_B6E5343editweb.jpg" width="650" height="975" width_o="650" height_o="975" src_o="http://payload54.cargocollective.com/1/7/229796/3383824/_B6E5343editweb_o.jpg" data-mid="18322717" border="0" align="left"/> Buy this here, bro. <img src="http://payload54.cargocollective.com/1/7/229796/3383824/_B6E5366editweb.jpg" width="650" height="818" width_o="650" height_o="818" src_o="http://payload54.cargocollective.com/1/7/229796/3383824/_B6E5366editweb_o.jpg" data-mid="18322733" border="0" align="left"/> Downstairs in the screen printing studio. Making sure the ship is sailing. <img src="http://payload54.cargocollective.com/1/7/229796/3383824/_B6E5412editweb.jpg" width="650" height="433" width_o="650" height_o="433" src_o="http://payload54.cargocollective.com/1/7/229796/3383824/_B6E5412editweb_o.jpg" data-mid="18322742" border="0" align="left"/> Mike showing me his flat file of all his previous work and his extensive collection of posters from other designers. Rad stuff. Kind of wish I was a designer looking through it. <img src="http://payload54.cargocollective.com/1/7/229796/3383824/_B6E5198editweb.jpg" width="650" height="832" width_o="650" height_o="832" src_o="http://payload54.cargocollective.com/1/7/229796/3383824/_B6E5198editweb_o.jpg" data-mid="18322848" border="0" align="left"/> In case ya didn't know, now ya know. Since 2004 Mikey D. has been one of the organizers of the annual Dre Day birthday party. <img src="http://payload54.cargocollective.com/1/7/229796/3383824/_B6E5179editweb.jpg" width="650" height="526" width_o="650" height_o="526" src_o="http://payload54.cargocollective.com/1/7/229796/3383824/_B6E5179editweb_o.jpg" data-mid="18322695" border="0" align="left"/> Mike is also an insanely good DJ. Mike recently took first place in the Red Bull Thre3style Chicago qualifier and will move on to the US finals June 21-23rd in Orlando FL. <img src="http://payload54.cargocollective.com/1/7/229796/3383824/_B6E5407editweb.jpg" width="650" height="426" width_o="650" height_o="426" src_o="http://payload54.cargocollective.com/1/7/229796/3383824/_B6E5407editweb_o.jpg" data-mid="18322739" border="0" align="left"/> I first met Mike in the late 90's when I was still in high school. He and his friends, a crew of graf writers, fine arts painters, designers, skaters, rappers, and ballers of all kinds had a warehouse office space that looked like a scene out of The Last Minute or Hackers. As a high school kid I had no fucking idea what was going on in there... but I knew it was pimp as shit. Way back in the day Mike was a part of the team that put out an insanely dope graffiti magazine called Life Sucks Die. I remember thinking at the time, "Damn, this is your job? Ah, sign me up." Mike and the entire crew of creative masterminds that shared that space are now all successful creators in their mediums and have moved onto to bigger and better ventures. Burlesque was born out of that crazy time and it's definitely worth a minute to read the full backstory. The thing that's cool about Mike to me is that even though his career has grown a ton since I first met him he's the same cool guy he always was. Mike is super down to earth. You would never have any idea how talented of a designer he is or how good of a DJ he is unless someone else told you or you came across his work first. Besides that the dude works crazy hard. It's funny because I think there is still this myth about people who do anything creative for a living that we all sit around thinking about shit all day without getting anything done. If you spend 5 minutes on the Burlesque website your mind will explode with how much work Mike and his creative partner Wes Winship have put out over the years. I'm really amped to know Mike and always excited to see, learn, or hear about his new projects. Mike - thanks for inspiring me and putting things out into the world that are worth putting up on the wall. High-school kids (and the rest of us) all need something to look at everyday to remind us how awesome this world really is. If you'd like to hear more of Mike's DJ skills be sure to check out his monthly party EXTRA LARGE in the First Avenue Record Room along with the one and only Jonathan Ackerman. The next round is right here: <img src="http://payload54.cargocollective.com/1/7/229796/3383824/extralargejune2012.jpg" width="500" height="787" width_o="500" height_o="787" src_o="http://payload54.cargocollective.com/1/7/229796/3383824/extralargejune2012_o.jpg" data-mid="18351550" border="0" align="left"/> My day party with Mike Davis. A Visual & Written Essay by Clark Dr. Dre Saint Patrica. Mike D. in the house. Smokin' big killa gettin' high in the Benz. Aka -... http://www.clarklovesme.com/Gabe-Douglas-the-4onthefloor http://www.clarklovesme.com/following/clarklovesme.com/Gabe-Douglas-the-4onthefloor Thu, 23 May 2013 18:17:01 +0000 Clark Loves Me 3469886 A day of rocking out with Gabriel Douglas front man of the 4onthefloor. A Visual & Written Essay by Clark P. Ditty. <img src="http://payload58.cargocollective.com/1/7/229796/3469886/_B6E5050editweb.jpg" width="650" height="899" width_o="650" height_o="899" src_o="http://payload58.cargocollective.com/1/7/229796/3469886/_B6E5050editweb_o.jpg" data-mid="18036729" border="0" align="left"/> Some men are born to be rock stars. Can you see the lighting and thunder in this man's eyes? Gaber brings the rock. <img src="http://payload58.cargocollective.com/1/7/229796/3469886/_B6E4944editweb.jpg" width="650" height="890" width_o="650" height_o="890" src_o="http://payload58.cargocollective.com/1/7/229796/3469886/_B6E4944editweb_o.jpg" data-mid="18036690" border="0" align="left"/> Gaber and I have both been super busy dudes over the last few years - slash - decade... so hanging out at his house for a day having him play me new tracks he's been working on was a really great time. <img src="http://payload58.cargocollective.com/1/7/229796/3469886/_B6E4956editweb.jpg" width="650" height="898" width_o="650" height_o="898" src_o="http://payload58.cargocollective.com/1/7/229796/3469886/_B6E4956editweb_o.jpg" data-mid="18036693" border="0" align="left"/> <img src="http://payload58.cargocollective.com/1/7/229796/3469886/_B6E4959editweb.jpg" width="650" height="726" width_o="650" height_o="726" src_o="http://payload58.cargocollective.com/1/7/229796/3469886/_B6E4959editweb_o.jpg" data-mid="18036695" border="0" align="left"/> <img src="http://payload58.cargocollective.com/1/7/229796/3469886/_B6E4971editweb.jpg" width="650" height="843" width_o="650" height_o="843" src_o="http://payload58.cargocollective.com/1/7/229796/3469886/_B6E4971editweb_o.jpg" data-mid="18036699" border="0" align="left"/> You can almost hear it.... <img src="http://payload58.cargocollective.com/1/7/229796/3469886/_B6E4973editweb.jpg" width="650" height="936" width_o="650" height_o="936" src_o="http://payload58.cargocollective.com/1/7/229796/3469886/_B6E4973editweb_o.jpg" data-mid="18036700" border="0" align="left"/> <img src="http://payload58.cargocollective.com/1/7/229796/3469886/_B6E4997editweb.jpg" width="650" height="863" width_o="650" height_o="863" src_o="http://payload58.cargocollective.com/1/7/229796/3469886/_B6E4997editweb_o.jpg" data-mid="18036702" border="0" align="left"/> Like all good bros from back in the day we had a few brews to keep it real. <img src="http://payload58.cargocollective.com/1/7/229796/3469886/_B6E5006editweb.jpg" width="650" height="569" width_o="650" height_o="569" src_o="http://payload58.cargocollective.com/1/7/229796/3469886/_B6E5006editweb_o.jpg" data-mid="18036706" border="0" align="left"/> After chilling out at his pad for a while Gaber needed to get some gear and vinyl from his super pimpin' touring bus for an in-store performance at the Electric Fetus later in the evening for a limited edition album he just released. <img src="http://payload58.cargocollective.com/1/7/229796/3469886/_B6E5018editweb.jpg" width="650" height="975" width_o="650" height_o="975" src_o="http://payload58.cargocollective.com/1/7/229796/3469886/_B6E5018editweb_o.jpg" data-mid="18036707" border="0" align="left"/><img src="http://payload58.cargocollective.com/1/7/229796/3469886/_B6E5027editweb.jpg" width="650" height="922" width_o="650" height_o="922" src_o="http://payload58.cargocollective.com/1/7/229796/3469886/_B6E5027editweb_o.jpg" data-mid="18036709" border="0" align="left"/><img src="http://payload58.cargocollective.com/1/7/229796/3469886/_B6E5036editweb.jpg" width="650" height="975" width_o="650" height_o="975" src_o="http://payload58.cargocollective.com/1/7/229796/3469886/_B6E5036editweb_o.jpg" data-mid="18036710" border="0" align="left"/> Gabe's touring bus is awesome. Full sleeper cabs, bar, hot tub, hot dog machine, time machine, machine guns, rock and roll machine. I could def. roll around the country in this ride. <img src="http://payload58.cargocollective.com/1/7/229796/3469886/_B6E5056editweb.jpg" width="650" height="975" width_o="650" height_o="975" src_o="http://payload58.cargocollective.com/1/7/229796/3469886/_B6E5056editweb_o.jpg" data-mid="18036733" border="0" align="left"/><img src="http://payload58.cargocollective.com/1/7/229796/3469886/_B6E5063editweb.jpg" width="650" height="953" width_o="650" height_o="953" src_o="http://payload58.cargocollective.com/1/7/229796/3469886/_B6E5063editweb_o.jpg" data-mid="18036735" border="0" align="left"/> All aboard..... next stop Nashville. <img src="http://payload58.cargocollective.com/1/7/229796/3469886/_B6E5078editweb.jpg" width="650" height="975" width_o="650" height_o="975" src_o="http://payload58.cargocollective.com/1/7/229796/3469886/_B6E5078editweb_o.jpg" data-mid="18036736" border="0" align="left"/> One of the 4... onthefloor..... kick drums that is. <img src="http://payload58.cargocollective.com/1/7/229796/3469886/_B6E5083editweb.jpg" width="650" height="867" width_o="650" height_o="867" src_o="http://payload58.cargocollective.com/1/7/229796/3469886/_B6E5083editweb_o.jpg" data-mid="18036738" border="0" align="left"/> Gaber's long time friends, former housemates, and baller local band Roster McCabe playing a couple tracks before the 4onthefloor performance. They also contributed tracks to the limited edition album. I've shot album covers for Roster McCabe for years and always love working with those guys. <img src="http://payload58.cargocollective.com/1/7/229796/3469886/_B6E5115editweb.jpg" width="650" height="877" width_o="650" height_o="877" src_o="http://payload58.cargocollective.com/1/7/229796/3469886/_B6E5115editweb_o.jpg" data-mid="18036741" border="0" align="left"/> Adding to the collection.... Before his in-store set. <img src="http://payload58.cargocollective.com/1/7/229796/3469886/_B6E5140editweb.jpg" width="650" height="925" width_o="650" height_o="925" src_o="http://payload58.cargocollective.com/1/7/229796/3469886/_B6E5140editweb_o.jpg" data-mid="18036747" border="0" align="left"/><img src="http://payload58.cargocollective.com/1/7/229796/3469886/_B6E5131editweb.jpg" width="650" height="825" width_o="650" height_o="825" src_o="http://payload58.cargocollective.com/1/7/229796/3469886/_B6E5131editweb_o.jpg" data-mid="18036742" border="0" align="left"/> Here's Gabe bringing it for the solid group of fans who came out for the special release and signing. It was a fun set and I had a great day getting a chance to catch up with my buddy. The End. Or perhaps it's the beginning. When I decided to do this project I sat down and wrote up a list of people I've gotten to know over the years that are artist that I really DO love - and Gabe was one of the first people to come to mind. I met Gabe close to the beginning of my career when I use to be the 'official' in-house photographer for the Varsity Theater in Dinkytown. I would go to the Varsity four nights a week to shoot bands live. It was a test for me and a way to improve my shooting skills. I literally shot more bands in one year than there are days. Gabe worked at the Varsity Theater when I was putting in those power years of shooting music and I spent countless nights hanging out there with him and the rest of the staff. It was a crazy, special, and wonderful time. Everyone there knew that Gabe was insanely passionate about music - and that he was constantly motivated to start his own band. Erik Stromstad, who managed all aspects of the music scene for the Varsity for years, Gabe, and I would spend many nights after shows hanging out, cleaning up, talking about music, listening to music, and debating (All Erik & Gabe here, I was an innocent bystander) the merits of any given band, genre, song, or anything related to music. I know a lot of people who are passionate appreciators, listeners, and creators of music, but very few as passionate or committed as Gabe. The interesting thing about Gabe is that he always partied way harder than I did... not a huge accomplishment because I've always been the weak link in the party chain, but I think because he partied so hard no everyone, myself included, realized how hard he was working on his own music and building the successful band that he has now. He's like an Olympic athlete of rock.... parties hard, but works even harder. All of Gabe's and the 4onthefloor's recent success is well-earned and growing and I couldn't be more proud to say... "I knew him when..." Gabe - I tip my hat and raise my glass to you sir. Keep on rocking in the free world! It has been a wild ride so far. Cheers to the future. Also, in case you're wondering... it is true, Gaber and I use to spend a lot of time together getting drunk on On Tuesdays. Make sure to support and keep tack of Gabe's the 4onthefloor tours here: the 4onthefloor. Like the 4onthefloor's Facebook Page. Follow the 4onthefloor's Twitter. Follow Gabe's solo projects here: A day of rocking out with Gabriel Douglas front man of the 4onthefloor. A Visual & Written Essay by Clark P. Ditty. Some men are born to be rock stars. Can you... http://www.clarklovesme.com/Brock-Davis http://www.clarklovesme.com/following/clarklovesme.com/Brock-Davis Thu, 23 May 2013 18:16:59 +0000 Clark Loves Me 3396597 My telepathic day with Brock Davis. A Visual & Written Essay by Clark Patrick Yo Yo Ma. <img src="http://payload54.cargocollective.com/1/7/229796/3396597/_B6E4232editweb.jpg" width="650" height="975" width_o="650" height_o="975" src_o="http://payload54.cargocollective.com/1/7/229796/3396597/_B6E4232editweb_o.jpg" data-mid="17730392" border="0" align="left"/> Brock telepathically sent me a message to come over and meet him at the mushroom table. I dropped everything. It was time. <img src="http://payload54.cargocollective.com/1/7/229796/3396597/_B6E4338editweb_14.jpg" width="650" height="921" width_o="650" height_o="921" src_o="http://payload54.cargocollective.com/1/7/229796/3396597/_B6E4338editweb_14_o.jpg" data-mid="17730398" border="0" align="left"/> We started our day at the "mushroom" table... wink, wink, if you know what I mean. No, but seriously we had coffee at the mushroom table. <img src="http://payload54.cargocollective.com/1/7/229796/3396597/_B6E4347editweb.jpg" width="650" height="987" width_o="650" height_o="987" src_o="http://payload54.cargocollective.com/1/7/229796/3396597/_B6E4347editweb_o.jpg" data-mid="17730399" border="0" align="left"/> We talked about art. <img src="http://payload54.cargocollective.com/1/7/229796/3396597/_B6E4349editweb.jpg" width="650" height="807" width_o="650" height_o="807" src_o="http://payload54.cargocollective.com/1/7/229796/3396597/_B6E4349editweb_o.jpg" data-mid="17730400" border="0" align="left"/> We chilled. Relaxing and maxin'. <img src="http://payload54.cargocollective.com/1/7/229796/3396597/_B6E4400editweb.jpg" width="650" height="433" width_o="650" height_o="433" src_o="http://payload54.cargocollective.com/1/7/229796/3396597/_B6E4400editweb_o.jpg" data-mid="17730404" border="0" align="left"/> <img src="http://payload54.cargocollective.com/1/7/229796/3396597/_B6E4378editweb.jpg" width="650" height="1014" width_o="650" height_o="1014" src_o="http://payload54.cargocollective.com/1/7/229796/3396597/_B6E4378editweb_o.jpg" data-mid="17730402" border="0" align="left"/> The mushrooms kicked in..... Wait, I mean we talked about art. <img src="http://payload54.cargocollective.com/1/7/229796/3396597/_B6E4044editweb.jpg" width="650" height="958" width_o="650" height_o="958" src_o="http://payload54.cargocollective.com/1/7/229796/3396597/_B6E4044editweb_o.jpg" data-mid="17730343" border="0" align="left"/> Then we went to Brock's office. He showed me a new project he's working on. (I found out one of Brock's big creative secrets - he draws with both hands. At the same time. Think about that one ladies. Think about it. Both hands+same time. Damn son!) <img src="http://payload54.cargocollective.com/1/7/229796/3396597/_B6E4009editweb.jpg" width="650" height="903" width_o="650" height_o="903" src_o="http://payload54.cargocollective.com/1/7/229796/3396597/_B6E4009editweb_o.jpg" data-mid="17730351" border="0" align="left"/> He sang me a ditty. It was really great - about a farmer, old McDonald, who had this farm that was destroyed by GMO's and industrial-agi... something like that- heart warming. A crowd pleaser, for sure. <img src="http://payload54.cargocollective.com/1/7/229796/3396597/_B6E4080editweb.jpg" width="650" height="975" width_o="650" height_o="975" src_o="http://payload54.cargocollective.com/1/7/229796/3396597/_B6E4080editweb_o.jpg" data-mid="17730354" border="0" align="left"/> Then Brock's headed exploded and one million tiny toys poured out of it. Ahhhhh!!! Mushrooms. <img src="http://payload54.cargocollective.com/1/7/229796/3396597/_B6E4091editweb.jpg" width="650" height="806" width_o="650" height_o="806" src_o="http://payload54.cargocollective.com/1/7/229796/3396597/_B6E4091editweb_o.jpg" data-mid="17730355" border="0" align="left"/> In honor of his achievements for tiny-toy head exploding skills and world peace. I awarded Brock G.W. Davis the congressional tiny trophy for advancements in tiny bio-technology and super string theory. A tiny band played tiny horns. It was a wonderful ceremony. <img src="http://payload54.cargocollective.com/1/7/229796/3396597/_B6E4145editweb.jpg" width="650" height="975" width_o="650" height_o="975" src_o="http://payload54.cargocollective.com/1/7/229796/3396597/_B6E4145editweb_o.jpg" data-mid="17730357" border="0" align="left"/> We made a block tower. With letters. (That spelled secret spy messages for the Chinese. But, keep that on the DL.) <img src="http://payload54.cargocollective.com/1/7/229796/3396597/_B6E4168editweb.jpg" width="650" height="853" width_o="650" height_o="853" src_o="http://payload54.cargocollective.com/1/7/229796/3396597/_B6E4168editweb_o.jpg" data-mid="17730363" border="0" align="left"/> Brock had to consult his tiny horse for some outstanding invoice issues. The conversation was slightly heated. <img src="http://payload54.cargocollective.com/1/7/229796/3396597/_B6E4198editweb.jpg" width="650" height="814" width_o="650" height_o="814" src_o="http://payload54.cargocollective.com/1/7/229796/3396597/_B6E4198editweb_o.jpg" data-mid="17730379" border="0" align="left"/> We took our afternoon nap. You know what they say. Rest fuels the mind. Rest = mind fuel. (write that down.) <img src="http://payload54.cargocollective.com/1/7/229796/3396597/_B6E4205editweb.jpg" width="650" height="786" width_o="650" height_o="786" src_o="http://payload54.cargocollective.com/1/7/229796/3396597/_B6E4205editweb_o.jpg" data-mid="17730380" border="0" align="left"/> The afternoon was very productive. (Nap powered.) <img src="http://payload54.cargocollective.com/1/7/229796/3396597/_B6E4208editweb.jpg" width="650" height="849" width_o="650" height_o="849" src_o="http://payload54.cargocollective.com/1/7/229796/3396597/_B6E4208editweb_o.jpg" data-mid="17730389" border="0" align="left"/> Text from Hilary. Brock was all like, "What up girl? Did you get my new shirt at Tarzay?" <img src="http://payload54.cargocollective.com/1/7/229796/3396597/_B6E4212editweb.jpg" width="650" height="856" width_o="650" height_o="856" src_o="http://payload54.cargocollective.com/1/7/229796/3396597/_B6E4212editweb_o.jpg" data-mid="17730390" border="0" align="left"/> "No 50 million yen... and tell Zuckerberg, he's more like Suckerberg! Oh, snap.... Where's my ice-latte." <img src="http://payload54.cargocollective.com/1/7/229796/3396597/_B6E4261editweb.jpg" width="650" height="871" width_o="650" height_o="871" src_o="http://payload54.cargocollective.com/1/7/229796/3396597/_B6E4261editweb_o.jpg" data-mid="17730393" border="0" align="left"/> At some point humming birds, butterflies, and rainbows appeared. There was also a faint smell of a pine forest. This guy... let me tell you. Like St. Francis over here. <img src="http://payload54.cargocollective.com/1/7/229796/3396597/_B6E4416editweb.jpg" width="650" height="921" width_o="650" height_o="921" src_o="http://payload54.cargocollective.com/1/7/229796/3396597/_B6E4416editweb_o.jpg" data-mid="17730406" border="0" align="left"/> Finally, at the end of the day. We meditated for 15 years. But, only 1 second had passed by. Brock Davis changed my life. Everything is now clear. I love you all. Clark Loves You. The End. Did you like my story? Haha. Um, but for realzy. Brock Davis is about the only person I know who doesn't need mushrooms to be a 100% pure thorough(lazer)bred creative genius. Everyone in the Twin Cities advertising scene knows Brock is the king. Brock dominated the ad world in town for a long time and is now freelance.... aka - moving onto world domination - - One tiny idea with a big impact at a time. Beyond his towering creative abilities, on a personal note, as I've become friends with Brock over the last few years I can say in total sincerity he is one of the nicest, most kind-hearted, friendly, insanely funny, and genuine people I've met in this business since I started my career. The advertising world can be a harsh industry at times especially when the motivations of its leaders, movers, and shakers, get too caught up with the bottom line and they lose sight of the engine inside the machine... their creatives. The people without whom this business would not run. But, that's the best part about Brock. He's not really an Ad Man and he never was. He is an artist. An artist so good that there are absolutely no boundaries in his world. It's a beautiful thing really... a world without boundaries and unlimited possibilites. Thanks for the inspiration Brock - - In both the human and artist department. Your tiny ideas make my tiny days feel much larger. View and support Brock's work here: It Is The World That Made You Small Brock Tumblr Brock Davis Portfolio & Store Behance Flickr Threadless Twitter Society 6 Here are some of my fav's from Brock's extensive body of work: <img src="http://payload54.cargocollective.com/1/7/229796/3396597/1aacd50501175e28991a4c593f99d31a.jpeg" width="431" height="619" width_o="431" height_o="619" src_o="http://payload54.cargocollective.com/1/7/229796/3396597/1aacd50501175e28991a4c593f99d31a_o.jpeg" data-mid="17772810" border="0" align="left"/> <img src="http://payload54.cargocollective.com/1/7/229796/3396597/3b4aebe586a121931bbecfa97b8b1cd9.jpeg" width="526" height="640" width_o="526" height_o="640" src_o="http://payload54.cargocollective.com/1/7/229796/3396597/3b4aebe586a121931bbecfa97b8b1cd9_o.jpeg" data-mid="17772818" border="0" align="left"/> Editorial art. <img src="http://payload54.cargocollective.com/1/7/229796/3396597/6fe7855062ebc131185dc7f21694f8fd.jpeg" width="500" height="450" width_o="500" height_o="450" src_o="http://payload54.cargocollective.com/1/7/229796/3396597/6fe7855062ebc131185dc7f21694f8fd_o.jpeg" data-mid="17772822" border="0" align="left"/> Awesomeness. <img src="http://payload54.cargocollective.com/1/7/229796/3396597/8bacdcfd645555a0c535a2a77bd4ddb8.jpeg" width="500" height="450" width_o="500" height_o="450" src_o="http://payload54.cargocollective.com/1/7/229796/3396597/8bacdcfd645555a0c535a2a77bd4ddb8_o.jpeg" data-mid="17772824" border="0" align="left"/> Double awesomeness. <img src="http://payload54.cargocollective.com/1/7/229796/3396597/8d37b08687d4eafd6cd4f4a6d8599c04.jpeg" width="600" height="450" width_o="600" height_o="450" src_o="http://payload54.cargocollective.com/1/7/229796/3396597/8d37b08687d4eafd6cd4f4a6d8599c04_o.jpeg" data-mid="17772826" border="0" align="left"/> Dark side of the Doritos. <img src="http://payload54.cargocollective.com/1/7/229796/3396597/973338266c0de27306ef2aed64cb8d0e.jpeg" width="600" height="419" width_o="600" height_o="419" src_o="http://payload54.cargocollective.com/1/7/229796/3396597/973338266c0de27306ef2aed64cb8d0e_o.jpeg" data-mid="17772834" border="0" align="left"/> My credit score. <img src="http://payload54.cargocollective.com/1/7/229796/3396597/all.jpeg" width="670" height="297" width_o="900" height_o="400" src_o="http://payload54.cargocollective.com/1/7/229796/3396597/all_o.jpeg" data-mid="17772836" border="0" align="left"/> Buy these for your children now. No, but seriously right now. <img src="http://payload54.cargocollective.com/1/7/229796/3396597/870661228690475.png" width="500" height="450" width_o="500" height_o="450" src_o="http://payload54.cargocollective.com/1/7/229796/3396597/870661228690475_o.png" data-mid="17772841" border="0" align="left"/> Oh, jeez, what a cool bear. I have to admit when I was a kid I always wanted to be a cool bear. Pipe dreams... pipe dreams I tell ya. My telepathic day with Brock Davis. A Visual & Written Essay by Clark Patrick Yo Yo Ma. Brock telepathically sent me a message to come over and meet him at the...