Jenny Soep's

Scotland Visit -

2012-01-29T18:43:00.000-08:00

Quality quality gig tonight - Bonny Prince Billy. Pictures to come, along with drawings of RM Hubbert's wonderful album launch gig at Stereo on Friday supported by the right rivetingly off the wall 'Tattie Toes', plus some drawings of an alternatively and equally fascinating scientific music, poetry and art night at Inspace with Unravel (Aidan Moffat, Found as well as Chris Meade) last Thursday evening in Edinburgh.

Had a lovely rehearsal on Friday with Jer Reid and Monnica Deioanni for our trio piece at Sound Thought, The Arches. Tomorrow having a meeting about the fourth International Women's Day event I'm involved in, plus meeting with the rather fantabulous digital/animatory whizzkid Dave Sapien too for some projected digital drawing chat. All looking real good, enough to get rather excited about.

It's been a busy five days my friends, where I also managed to get my self - assessment/tax shenanigans dealt with, plus got a lovely 24 hours back with my Nana, my Folks, MacDuff the dog and Conan the cat. A good few pictures to upload so look again very very soon. Soon as I get back to my lovely Stockholm tomorrow night and crank up the Scanner. xx

Sound Thought, Wintercyle and Beyond

2012-01-20T07:50:00.000-08:00

Good to see we're up already on Sound Thought. Quite excited about the improvised collaboration (a trio) between myself, experimental musician Jer Reid and dancer Monica Deioanni. A development/continuation of the beautiful and epic project of separate duets over a one month period last winter by Jer Reid called Wintercyle http://wintercycle.wordpress.com/. Look it up.

Our performance at the Sound Thought festival, The Arches, Glasgow, is Saturday 3rd March, 6pm. See, hear, sense you there. :)

First Wintercycle drawing (Computer/Wacom Tablet combo with improvised monologue) from Audio/Visual Duet with Jer Reid - 'Christmas/Family/A Sense of Place'

Second Wintercycle drawing (Watercolour and Pencil, with accompanying improvised monologue) from Audio/Visual Duet with Jer Reid - 'Method/Experience'

Finally (for now) - I will be part of a charity event for Women's International Day on Thursday 8th of March, I will be having an exhibition and auction, at least one workshop in collaboration with Therapeutic Theatre and most probably some live drawing at the Women's International Day at the Old Hairdressers, Renfield Lane, Glasgow. This will be a culmination of a year of quite incredible, inspiring and beautiful events called Loop, and Loop De Loop, created by and (at least two) in partnership with Garterstitch. 50% of the money from drawings auctioned off will go towards the five wonderful women's charities that Garterstitch have been contributing towards since the first event last year. You really should read about what they managed, but just to give you a little idea of the massiveness of it, they collected nearly 20 million stitches of knitting from around the world. And put on a one day event, in one location, covered in aforementioned knitting, with 100 live events. Go now - 'read all about it!'.

Women's International Day 2012, 8th March, The Old Hairdressers, Renfield Lane, Glasgow. Check out the Garterstitch website for details and updates.

New Year? Already? Of course it is :)

2012-01-16T15:52:00.000-08:00

Välkommen. Nice to see you. Come in and warm your tootsies. There's snow here in Stockholm at the moment, which makes it look very pretty where I am at the moment. We've got a lilly that's got four white flowering heads on it, as well as it being allowed to still have the Christmas star lantern up so there's a lot of white and light. Today I drew the lillies lit by candlelight while it snowed outside. Felt quite magical. The candle has been burning all day in here, which has been lovely and heart warming. I've never let it do that normally, but today, a 'monday in January' it felt really great to do, so... I quite like the drawing too.

Saturday was Swedish Radio/Stockholm's Art's Birthday Party, a fantastic and hugely inspiring digital music and sound art festival. There were so many acts to witness, and I only scratched the surface. I will be keeping my wish list and following the other artists up whenever they're in a country that I too am in. :)You can see the drawings, and possibly some animated/timelapses of them too on my Facebook page - Jenny Soep/Drawing The Experience

I'll be drawing at RM Hubbert's Album Launch on Friday the 27th of January next week at Stereo, Glasgow. It's going to be a really lovely and exciting night with a whole plethora of the great and good musicians in/from Scotland. It's going to be the only time you'll ever see his album played live. I would thoroughly recommend you buy a ticket if you have not already. The mere fact that the fantastic Tattie Toes are supporting should be reason enough.

I shall also be part of a three person installation/trio on the 3rd of March (6pm) at the Arches, Glasgow as part of the Sound Thought Festival. It's a continuation of the audio/visual improvised duet I created with the experimental musician Jer Reid, as well as an improvised music/dance duet he created with Monicca Deioanni as part of his Wintercycle project last year. Which was magical incidentally. A month worth of duets with lots of different and exciting musicians, dancers etc. So if you fancy seeing some live projected drawing, dancing and music making - all improvised and in response to each other - then come on down. I think it's going to be a lot of fun.

Merry Christmas!

2011-12-19T07:07:00.001-08:00

Click on this to see a cheery Merry Christmas iPad Animation :D

So I made my first little iPad animated timelapse drawing to wish you all a Merry Christmas and God Jul! I hope you all have a lovely one, and indeed a great New Year and Festive Holiday. May you all be well, warm and in the best of company.

The quite simply brilliant Nisennenmondai

2011-12-01T16:13:00.000-08:00

The Antlers and Dry The River

2011-11-28T17:39:00.001-08:00

Link to Timelapse Drawing of The AntlersInspiring gig. Overwhelming amount of equipment - and that was without the amount which their airline lost. It's been a tough week for The Antlers (US), but great gig tonight with Dry The River from the UK. Two great bands that I look forward to following.

THE MIGHTY 'CIRCLE' + CHICKEN EL DIABLO

2011-11-28T08:40:00.001-08:00

Half an hour of Chicken El Diablo

An hour and 15 minutes of CIRCLE.

The Babies, The Strand

2011-11-27T04:12:00.001-08:00

Today's Inspiration - in Sounds, Visuals and Combos

2011-11-22T06:55:00.001-08:00

It's 15.54 and it's dark. But my afternoon has been significantly warmed by listening to Emma Swift on her show In the Pines - listen here http://ondemand.fbiradio.com/index.php?show=in-the-pines

Having just drawn and experienced the intense and dreamy voice, music and presence of Bill Callahan I was looking up twitter to see what was the current lowdown and found this amazing festival in Brussels happening all this week - http://autumnfalls.toutpartout.be/ - oh boy - it looks Great!

I've also been checking out another blog which has a very nice mix of artwork, listening recommendations, interviews and more. The artwork is big and bold and the site is easy to navigate, fun and inspiring. I hope I can tweak my own sites to be as simply enjoyable. Three girls are behind it and they have a few different places online that you can follow and be similarly inspired by.
http://theleftoversessions.co.uk/

I really must limit my investigations online. One inspiring article can branch out to two or more interesting links and it goes on from there. I was looking up a video this morning on the band Isosceles and it actually had this very theme running through the whole documentary - ie random inspirations leading onto even more inspirations and even collaborations. The art of random, and being able to follow the chase. Anyway, check it out on Central Station http://vimeo.com/29034684 and make sure to see the other 2 parts to it.

Central Station is itself worth checking out and is currently going through a major revamp. If you are an artist of any kind I would thoroughly recommend signing up and boosting your online presence via their suggestions and be in the running to win some promotion and/or cash prizes. See this link for more - http://community.thisiscentralstation.com/_Central-Station-v2-Latest-News/blog/5449958/126249.html

Finally, some audio visual stimulus. If you're in Glasgow on the 9th of December I would recommend going to see the one night launch of animator, director, audio-visual chap - Konx-om-Pax.
Details here - http://www.facebook.com/event.php?eid=317994184893560 including a good few links to his myspace, website and Vimeo - very much worth a watch. His Hudson Mohawk video did remind me of a video from a while back and which I prefer by inimitable and rather brilliant Rachel Maclean for the awesome Phantom Band which you can see here. It is EPIC! http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yH1qxYG78eQ

Meanwhile on the 9th of December in Edinburgh there is a rather special book launch of the Roughcut Nation project from 2009 which was basically the best Scottish street artists taking over and restyling a part of the esteemed National Portrait Gallery in Edinburgh. It was a fantastic happening, of which the resulting beautiful artwork/installation was divided up and auctioned off after a series of live music sessions involving the great and good in the Scottish music scene. So now there is a book. And I want one. (Oh, I suppose I should mention I was actually involved in some live projected drawing work when the marvellous John Knox Sex Club were strutting their stuff there - Magic :). JKSC will also be there to create music mayhem at the launch. I would thoroughly recommend the above. It's a free public event but you need to sign up for the free tickets.
http://www.facebook.com/event.php?eid=240242586038219

Finally, a very inspiring audio-visual project by sound artist John Keston where he manipulates the sound and film merely by touching the screen.
http://www.creativeapplications.net/maxmsp/voice-lessons-maxmsp/

So after that dry load of information, I really should stick up a drawing to break it up. Words and Pictures and all that. Ah, I'll leave it. I've been inside all day. I'm going out for a jog before drawing at a gig tonight. Walrus (SWE) and Mongst (CAN). It's a 'Mother' gig and I'd highly recommend it if you happen to be in Stockholm this evening.
Details - http://www.facebook.com/event.php?eid=263291350388197

I'll stick up some pictures of that.

Bill Callahan

2011-11-21T15:38:00.001-08:00

Bill Callahan, Final Song

Bill Callahan, with Neal Morgan on drums and Matt Kinsey on electric guitar

Brilliant and beautiful concert.
Blown away with the stunning wordsmithery, tight musicianship and Bill's deep violet voice.
Exquisite.

John Maus, Gary War, Another 'Mother' night...

2011-11-13T15:32:00.001-08:00

John Maus and Gary War were friggin' EPIC tonight. Yes.

Elation, Ecstatic Rage, Full On Physical Joy Warfare. If I had been pogo-ing in the air, it would have been complete, but I was constrained to the drawing. Great audience. Although they too could have been pogo-ing, though there were some. There were some screamers too. Everybody was indeed twitching, which was certainly encouraging for a Stockholm audience. The promoters, 'Mother' were playing some brilliant dance tunes afterwards and unfortunately I had to leave just as the party was starting. Next time.

Gary War, supporting John Maus

Animatory/timelapsey/drawing thing that happened with Maus and War tonight.

John Maus

Animations, Videos, Timelapses - Drawings

2011-11-10T10:01:00.000-08:00

Lucky Dragons make experimental music, but they are also facilitators for the collective music experience, making music and visuals tactile, celebratory, enjoyable, intriguing, interactive and fun.

No music created in one evening is ever the same as the next. You will likely walk away from one of these events feeling a wholesome sense of elation, tingling energy and more than just a feeling that you have connected physically and creatively (and perhaps also rather joyously) with other people, music and art.

This is a time-lapse of the iPad drawing I did of their live performance, stroke by digital brushstroke. This may be a sign of things to come.

Mother, Invader Ace, Olimpia Splendid, Sparrow & The Workshop, Barn Owl and then there's tonight...

2011-10-28T17:05:00.000-07:00

What a week!!! Two 'Mother' gigs starting with 'Lucky Dragons' beautiful set on Monday, then the feisty and gorgeous Sparrow & The Workshop supporting the vibrational dark intensity of Barn Owl on Wednesday - Last night

Invader Ace. F**king Brilliant.

Bill Wells & Aidan Moffat, RM Hubbert, Nalen

2011-10-28T17:04:00.000-07:00

Aidan Moffat & Bill Wells, with Robert Henderson on Trumpet and Stevie Jones on Double Bass. Brilliant, Dark, Oddly Endearing, Exquisitely played.

RM Hubbert supporting the above. Brilliant, Heart Warming, Genuine, Engaging.

Lucky Dragons, Färgfabriken, Stockholm

2011-10-24T15:46:00.000-07:00

Magic, as expected. Another splendid 'Mother' gig, and Färgfabriken is a pretty splendid space too! Looking forward to Sparrow & The Workshop supporting Barn Owl at Debaser Slussen on Wednesday, then another Mother gig on Thursday if I can make it - Details Below - then on Friday it's the mighty Aidan Moffat and Bill Wells supported by the inestimable RM Hubbert at Nalen. What a friggin' epic week.

(For the Thursday Gig)

Two bands booked solely upon hearing a description of what they do and their great names.
Olimpia Splendid; Three Finnish gals playing guitar over a fuzzy and broken drum machine + a screaming circle.
Invader Ace; A Swede on guitar and a Norwegian on Tuba playing through a multitude of radios over a beautiful vintage drum machine
Happy to report that the music lives up to it
All in the basement in the BACK of Hemliga Trädgården (Midsommarkransen) between 19 and 00 and 50kr
http://soundcloud.com/olimpia-splendid
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4AxM0up6EXU
http://www.soundcloud.com/invaderace
http://vimeo.com/28168519
http://www.facebook.com/event.php?eid=284236824934084

2 weeks in Scotland

2011-10-20T21:53:00.000-07:00

Well it's been a whistle stop fortnight tour that went something like this -
Stockholm - Edinburgh - Cupar - Dundee - Cupar - Dundee - Cupar - Glenrothes - Glasgow - Kilchrenan - Glencoe - Kilchrenan - Glasgow - Edinburgh.

I've drawn the Cupar Arts Festival, created Christmas illustrations for the Bright Night International Performance Arts Group, drawings of the secret Sofar/Songs from a Room gig, Photo work for the gorgeous guesthouse www.roineabhal.com newsletter, an iPad drawing of Apparat at last night's gig at the Arches, drawings of the actors' rehearsals and show in Solar Bear's recent production of 'The Courage To Dream', drawings of the musicians mentors/mentees of The Fruit Tree Foundation and well, a few more drawings for friends and family I managed some quality time with. What a fortnight. Loads more drawings to come soon. But now it's 5.30am and I'm 'Getting Up' to catch the 7.50am to Stockholm.

Cupar Arts Festival 2011

2011-10-14T13:32:00.000-07:00

You can see some really great stuff at the Cupar Arts Festival. Here's some of the things I've been glad to experience, see, and hear. Get yourself down this weekend and see it - apparently it closes at 5pm on Tuesday, and it may be shut on the Monday - do check the website out at http://cupararts.org.uk/
If you can, I'd thoroughly recommend being around tomorrow night (Sunday 16th October) for Kathy Watt's Broth, Bread and Beer at the Silo. There will apparently be a big bonfire and some music. I would expect it to be fun at the very least.

The Ark's Last Gig, Gröna Lund

2011-09-16T17:36:00.000-07:00

Marisa Anderson, Bridget Hayden, Norberto Lobo, 'Mother' gig. Fantastic.

2011-09-15T17:49:00.000-07:00

The marvellous Marissa Anderson at Etablissemanget, Södra Teatern, Stockholm. Top stuff. Hope she finds her LPs and CDs soon. I fancy myself one. Thoroughly recommend this lady who’s like an old style blues bird, except not quite ancient and wrinkly enough.

Supported by the darkly beautiful and intense Bridget Hayden and the equally intense alternative acoustic guitar playing virtuoso Norberto Lobo from Portugal.Excellent excellent night.

Quality. Check them ALL out on their expansive European tours.

Etablissemanget, Södra Teatern, Stockholm.

A ‘Mother’ gig. I had high expectations and I was not disappointed in the least. I would thoroughly recommend checking out their nights, and the main man is a very fine DJ too.

(ps bear with me on the format of this page - just trying out what Blogger is trying to convince me is a new and better way of doing things - I'm not convinced yet - it's got some odd ways of disappearing text and not letting me format it the way I want. Patience...)

Drawing Pure Evil

2011-09-14T16:42:00.000-07:00

Drawing 'Pure Evil' tonight at his expo opening in Stockholm. See the main dude here -http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VhPzzKmD1x8

Patti Smith, Kronos Quartet, Polar Music Prize 2011

2011-08-29T15:52:00.000-07:00

Patti Smith being interviewed by Jan Gradvall
PMP Talks (45 MINUTES)

Today, 29th August, I had the great privilege to draw the legendary Patti Smith and the fantastic Kronos Quartet during the Polar Music Prize Talks ahead of the ceremony tomorrow. (I was also pretty stoked when Patti herself came up to me and asked to see my drawings of Kronos who were having their talk before her :)
She hasn’t seen the one of herself yet, but fingers crossed she loves it. I’m pretty proud of it myself. It’s half past midnight. I’ve been working on images, prints and signing them. Attending PMP events all day tomorrow with drawing tools in hand. About to pass out with a huge smile on my face.

Kronos Quartet being interviewed by Camilla Lundberg

PMP Talks (45 minutes)

Polar Music Prize 2011 – Patti Smith and Kronos Quartet

2011-08-22T07:02:00.000-07:00

Yes, it’s got to that time of the year again and really rather excited that this time I’ve got full backing and support of those lovely folk at the Polar Music Prize. Unbelievably excited to be drawing the incredible Patti Smith and Kronos Quartet – What an experience this will be! Just got to keep the drawing up to scratch. Draw draw draw.

I’ve just returned from an amazing month back in Scotland where amongst other things, was drawing at a beautiful production of Cryptic’s one woman show Orlando with the impeccably turned out Judith Williams, as well as a hugely fun Cry Parrot show with Foot Village, Bitches, and Ultimate Thrush. Blochestra and Aerials Up at King Tuts and a few other drawing shenanigans scattered around also.

I also had the huge joy of looking after my folks’ B&B for about ten days while they went on their first summer holiday in 12 years – a huge insight in the running of an upmarket establishment that relies on quality, great food, speed, location and great welcome. It is a big leap aside from what my ‘day job’ involves, and a huge amount of multi-tasking, managing a team, and responsibility for the team/home/family pets. I had huge respect anyway for my parents, but my Mum seriously is a wonderwoman for achieving what she does every day, with all the anomalies that each day brings.

I have to say I loved the routine of it, but also the challenge of providing different hot scrumptious breakfasts for a variety of different demands/guests all at the same time, all to their immediate whims. I had a great team working with me in Georgia from Italy, and Gerda from Holland, even my boyfriend Mattias and Dad’s secretary Jackie got roped in to help. It’s the busiest time of the tourist season and I found it immensely challenging and rewarding. I look forward to doing it again some time, but for now am quite pleased to have had a week’s camping holiday since, and now back in Stockholm to garner momentum for my new adventure here. Working Roineabhal B&B certainly put things into perspective

Here’s a tiny selection of some drawings from my recent trip to Scotland.

Foot Village put on by Cry Parrot at NiceNSleazy's Glasgow 16 July 2011 - Paper Drawing

Cryptic's Orlando with Judith Williams August 2011 - iPad Drawing

Cryptic's Orlando with Judith Williams August 2011 - iPad Drawing - The Beauty Within

Just had to post this! PORTISHEAD MIXTAPE!

2011-06-21T07:39:00.000-07:00

Hej! fran Stockholm where I'm currently hanging out.

Something to cheer you all up if you've been wearing wellies for the past month - this magnificent play list by the those indubitably inspirational and quite amazing Portishead along with ATP.

http://illbeyourmirror.com/mixtape/

It's a free playlist compiled of some of the hugely amazing great and the good who will be playing their (indoor!) weekend festival on the 23rd/24th July this year. If you haven't already got your weekend ticket, there are day tickets left and I would thoroughly recommend getting hold of one. This weekend would blow your mind.

But you should also get a ticket for the Flaming Lips performance of Soft Bullet which will be playing on July 1st. More details here - http://www.atpfestival.com/events/flaminglipsbulletin.php including being supported by Dinosaur Junior and Deerhoof - why would you pass this up people???

If you want to get tickets to both events and also do something charitable, go to the ATP fundraiser for the lovely London Alexandra Palace.

http://www.atpfestival.com/events/ibymportishead/news/1106161606.php

Exciting News - Polar Music Prize - Patti Smith and The Kronos Quartet!!!

2011-05-20T17:33:00.000-07:00

This is the post I put on my facebook page. It describes everything. :)

'can officially officially confirm that I, Jenny Soep, will be drawing Patti Smith and the Kronos Quartet at this year's Polar Music Prize. The drawings will be done during their talks, then made into prints to give to those attending the banquet the day after - this includes the Laureates themselves, the glitteratti of the music/entertainment/arts industry in Sweden, oh, and the Swedish Royal Family :D'

Jenny Soep Just bludgeoning myself to death with excitement. :)

Cool huh??

Also, my exhibition on Monday - come come! It's also going to be rather exciting since I will be 'test-drawing' a new arty iPad app that is soon to be launched all things going well. I've already tried it, and it has some beautiful qualities - I can't wait to try it out at the expo opening, and hopefully will have one of my favourite bands doing a spot so that I can do a drawing performance with a projector and screen no less!! It's all happening at the Arches this coming Monday between 6-8pm. Drop in for a glass of wine and an inspired peruse, would be lovely to see you there. :)

Exhibitions and Events - 'Loop de Loop' this Wednesday, 'Drawing Time & Attention - An Audience Member' on Monday

2011-05-16T17:43:00.000-07:00

Yes, it is like buses. Nothing for ages and then two come at once.

Well here's my big Double-Decker. :)

Firstly, this Wednesday coming, I am one of four artists to be organising this lovely 'Open Mic' event - a 6 hour music/dance/spoken word/improv/non-improv/knitted art 'happening'.

I'm hoping to facilitate as many folk of all ages and abilities drawing as are performing. A huge bulk of any profit will be shared out amongst five chosen women's charites - Apne Ap, Care, GWL, The Fawcett Society and The Women’s Support Project. You can see more details on our facebook page too. This event is an extension of the huge and beautiful event 'Loop' that was put on for the 100th anniversary of International Women's Day back on the 8th of March. You can also read about that project here. Running alongside is an exhibition of 16 drawings that I drew throughout the events of the original 'Loop', which are available on eBay with 50% profit also going to the women's charities.

Below is the poster for our event this coming Wednesday - hope to see you there!

Mono, Kings Court, Glasgow, 4-10pm, Wednesday 18th May

Details of where/when is on the poster too.

Then there is an entirely different exhibition in the Arches, Glasgow, officially opening with a free glass of wine on Monday between 6-8pm but don't feel bad if you can't make it, as it's on for a month until the 20th June. It is more specifically about me and the live performances I draw as well as the type of technologies I use to draw them.

You can see more information on the Arches Website and also you can click 'attending' on Facebook (Incidentally, the transcendentally gorgeous Emeralds are playing in the Arches that very same night supported by the John Knox Sex Club (a local favourite of mine) and Small Scale Collisions who I am yet to encounter. I do however also need to mention that Adam Ant is playing the ABC. Childhood crush - c'mon - who didn't??!

Click on the picture below to read the blurb about the exhibition, launch and address. I would also love to see you there, grab a glass and then me for a chat :)

Music Without Sound

2011-05-11T18:34:00.000-07:00

UWS's (University of West of Scotland)'s 'Music Without Sound' at the CCA today was a lot of fun, met and listened to some great folk speak, learnt about the incredible Sense Scotland, enjoyed being on the 'Music with Creativity' panel with Christopher Brookmyre, Sandy Hutchison and Icecream Architecture's Sarah Frood 'chaired' by David Scott, while also getting my hair cut on stage by the rather sharp suited/well coiffed musician/retro-hairdresser Marco Rea during the panel about fashion/hair/sex :D. Well that was certainly an experience. :) Here's a last minute sketch of the Scratch Orchestra that was quickly assembled at the end of the day.

You can check out this link that will tell you a bit more about the day too - http://www.musicwithoutsound.co.uk/

Catching Up - Take A Worm For A Walk Week, Beerjacket and Y'All Is Fantasy Island

2011-04-20T16:40:00.000-07:00

Take A Worm For A Walk Week's Album Launch, CCA, 07042011. Supported by OV and Remember Remember. Brilliant Night.

Y'All Is Fantasy Island's Last Ever Gig at Sneaky Pete's, Edinburgh 11th March 2011 supported by Loch Awe and Two Wings. Travesty that this was the first and last time I experienced YIFI.

Michael Cassidy supporting Beerjacket. Lovely choice.

Beerjacket - 1st drawing of him at Peenko's Tea Party at the Hidden Lane Tearoom 10th March 2011

Beerjacket - 2nd Drawing of the Night - Tonight was my first live experience of Peter Kelly aka Beerjacket. Talented chap, lovely singing and lyrics, great in the intimate space of the Hidden Lane Tearoom. I would thoroughly recommend these rare nights in. Remember to BYOB. Corkage fee, but worth it.

Catchup - Mogwai and RM Hubbert, Stockholm

2011-04-11T07:12:00.000-07:00

RM HUBBERT

One man and his accoustic guitar, speaking with a Weegie accent in between intricately beautiful flamenco based instrumentals before the anticipated noise onslaught of Mogwai, captivates and beguiles the Stockholm audience. Known for their lack of emotion, my Swedish chap remarks in admiration at how Hubbert moves them to applause his candid intimations on his chronic depression and the tragic incidents which fuel his music. No mean feat from a very warm, humble, highly talented and deserving chap.

Mogwai, featuring the many pedals and various stances/trainers of Stuart Braithwaite, as well as two appearances of Dominic Aitchison and 1 and a half of Barry Burns :)

There is little room for error from a Mogwai set so it was a tickle to witness somebody's pedal having a moment. Cue Stuart - 'Mass Hypnosis - The last 30 seconds did not take place - the future starts from 'now''.

I adore 'flaws'. Makes me engage with live performances by such highly creative humans much more. Neither do I see them as 'flaws' more as 'chance' or 'opportunity'.

This is possibly one of my favourite belongings, nay 'gifts' this year.

The colour, statement and subject hold a lot of significance for me.

I normally am termed 'photo' instead of 'band artist'. Bliss.

It is now in pride of place on my iPad cover.

Like I mentioned before, I will be spending a lot of time in Stockholm for the foreseeable future, so it was a real pleasure to see/hear, draw and meet Mogwai and RM Hubbert playing a sold out show. They played at the very nice Debaser Medis - great place, great sound, great location.

WIDE DAYS - BTBW (FANTASTIC) SEMINARS ON THE MUSIC INDUSTRY

2011-04-07T17:24:00.001-07:00

The drawings from Born To Be Wide's 'Wide Days'. The other drawings will make their way on here one way or another, in their own good time, like all good things.

Wide Days - Making Touring Pay

with Robert Hicks(Rockness co-founder and tour promoter), Jason Edwards (booking agent, 13 Artists), Michael Lambert (Moderator/Manager/Musician), Keren McKean (Music Manager), Caroline Winn (General Manager, Hebrides Ensemble)

You can tell this is my first iPad sketch of the day where the time limit has escaped me - I was also writing screeds down on a seperate sketch book. Hopefully you can see that my method improves throughout the day :)

Wide Days - Write a Killer Bio - with Neil Cooper

Wide Days - Not Just SXSW

with David Balfour (Fine Tunes/Records of the Day), Shaun Arnold (goNorth), Olaf Furniss (BTBW/Moderator), Richard Caesar (Un-Convention), Allan McGowan (Conference Consultant)

Wide Days - Making Money with PPL - with Dan Millington

Wide Days - Digital DIY vs Record Labels

with Stewart Henderson (Chemikal Underground), Matthew Young (Song By Toad), Olaf Furniss (BTBW/Moderator), Scott Cohen (Manager/The Orchard), David Balfour (Fine Tunes/Records of the Day).

Wide Days - Online Promotion with Inner Ear's Dougal Perman and Andy McGolgan

Wide Days - Music in Films

with Caroline Gorman (Rage Music), Eleanor Yule (Film Director), Vic Galloway (BBC Radio Presenter/Moderator), Malcolm Lindsay (Composer), Huw Williams (Soundtrack Film Festival)

Wide Days - Music Making Money with Scott Cohen

Keynote - Olaf Furniss (BTBW) in conversation with Barry Wright (Co-Founder Regular Music)

Excellent reviews of the day, which are much more informative, can be found at Peenko, Popcop and IsThisMusic?

-----

'Thoughts'

Well it's been quite a day.

I feel washed out. 5 hours sleep and up at 6.30am feeling quite chirpy, sun shining. Nipped off to Edinburgh with my packed lunch, portfolio and drawing materials, and proceeded to draw the fantastic BTBW Wide Days music industry event on my iPad between 10am-6.30pm, train ride back to Glasgow, then drawing the album launch of Take A Worm For A Walk Week from 9pm-11.40pm.

Have just got back into my room, it's 1.27am, and I think I'm going to hit the hay.

But not before I mentioned my iPad learning curve documenting BTBW, my upcoming commission to draw a wedding, the backlog of 30 or so drawings I need to scan and upload to the blog (because I certainly haven't been idle since you last heard from me, simply that I've been a bit overwhelmed with work), the 2nd Children's book that I'm working on, and the fact that I'm decanting my room/workspace to move to Stockholm - an adventure I've finally accepted the challenge of. :)

With that, I leave you. Goodnight.

International Women's Day, Loop and Inspirational Women

2011-03-08T15:55:00.001-08:00

The following are the 16 drawings created between 10am and 10pm.

It was a very emotional day.

Glasgow Women's Library - What's your Dream Library?

Daniella Nardini reads from 'Women Who Run With Wolves'

Kate E.Deeming - Women Dancing - Why We Have, Why We Should

Kate E.Deeming - Women Dancing - Why We Have, Why We Should - The Dance Off

Dancers of Scotland with Kim Moore and Robin Masson

Dancers of Scotland with Kim Moore and Robin Masson 2

Dancers of Scotland with Kim Moore and Robin Masson 3

Circle Dancing - The Main thing to remember is to keep moving the way you are currently facing

Maryhill Integration Network - Costumes From Around The World

The Men Folk - Half The Sky

The Madrigirls

Cora Bisset - Stitched Up

Skye Reynolds and Florencia Garcia Chafuen Rigg - Secrets

Pauline Goldsmith - The Ukeladies

Lisa Fannen - Dialogue

The Final Dance to Adopted As Holograph

Well, I've just come back from drawing all day at the Tramway. 10 am - 11pm with an hour away for an errand, and half an hour for an interview and quick dinner break.

It's been bloody intense, emotional, exhausting, inspirational, enlightening, fun, sad, moving, captivating, involving and momentous.

Females and Males of all different shapes, sizes, ages, inclinations, colour, culture, innovation and creativity proliferating the epic yet cosy performance space peppered with the awe inducing collection of 20 million 'stitches' - multicoloured woollen patches presented and curated in various forms taking over the Tramway like guerilla knitted elastoplast for the soul. 20 million stitches of the 100 million that signify the amount of women missing in the world today.

'It is estimated that 100 million women are missing from the world today for reasons of gender discrimination. These reasons include: gender provoked infanticide and abortion, the sex slave industry, and the channelling of resources and medical care to the men in communities first (eg vaccinations). They include the consequences of poor education, and preventable complications in child birth, and conditions like fistula.'

http://garterstitch100.posterous.com/pages/bigknit

At least 15 drawings were created of - but not all - the 100 events that were due to happen today. I do need to check them tomorrow. For now though, rain battering on my bedroom window, it's time to rest in a dark room with no expectations, for a new day tomorrow.

To my mum, nana, sister, good friends and to all the other great and deserving women in the world, Happy International Women's Day. I doff my cap to you all.

MusiCircus and Mondo Morricone

2011-02-27T10:24:00.000-08:00

A layered drawing of the multitudinously talented and colourful MusiCircus Tag Team orchestrated by the wonderful Matt Ev and his beautiful assistant Stewart Smith :) One of the many inspiring, engaging, participative, wonderful and fun music happenings taking place throughout the second MusiCircus event curated by the marvellous Rosemary James.

A favourite picture of a favourite day - singing, dancing, drawing, drinking beer, eating great food, experiencing different types of music in different ways, all on a sunny spring day with good friends that turned into a lovely evening. One of those all time amazing times that have more than fully engaged all my senses. Brilliant, and thanks.

After all the above at MusiCircus I then went for a great curry at Banana Leaf just up the road from Tramway, before getting the train to the Arches for Mondo Morricone, where criminally, RM Hubbert was playing a beautiful gig in the adjacent arch to Mondo Morricone where I was also having some drawing fun. The only non positive point to the entire day, was not being able to be split into two folk, to enjoy both evening concerts. But I will see RM Hubbert play again. Mondo Morricone was a one off. Drawings to come soon, soon.

So after Billy Bragg buying my picture of him from last week's gig, drawing Efterklang on Thursday, Goblin on Friday, MusiCircus and Mondo Morricone yesterday amidst good wholesome Spring sunshine, tonight I'm off for some raucous fun courtesy of the John Knox Sex Club. It's been the best week in yonks.

Goblin, Glasgow Film Festival, The Arches.

2011-02-25T17:59:00.001-08:00

Great to witness this.

Efterklang, Billy Bragg and Beyond

2011-02-24T18:41:00.000-08:00

I won't deny, it's been a trying year, as I'm sure ANYONE has experienced, let alone those that are particularly creatively inclined. That's not to say it's been a dull year, far from it. But after having a spell of lacking somewhat in confidence, I've finally realised I'm good at what I do, and I should keep doing it until it no longer excites, frustrates and educates me.

This last week has taught me that I am STILL learning, and that is a great thing.

I am engaged, inspired, captivated...plus I seem to have streamlined my materials and myself that I get pleased with the improved efficiency of my learned approach. It is satisfying to see that I have learned, and modified, and adapted. It is also good to recognise that I've been doing this for 11 years now, more concentrated in the last 6, and that I still lose myself in it.

So I guess I'm doing what I'm meant to be doing.

And then there are the bonuses. Like today, it became official that Thee legendary Billy Bragg bought one of my drawings. This put the icing on the cake of a week of two other collectors also buying my drawing of Robyn at last year's Polar Music Prize, as well as my ATP drawing of the amazing and unforgettable Daniel Johnston, plus a good wholesome smattering of print orders. Not forgetting a HUGE amount of compliments and feedback courtesy of the fans on Billy Bragg's facebook page after he made a post about me and my drawing - 227 likes and 50 comments - not bad :)

Then for the first time in a few soggy cold weeks, the sun shone all day. Moreover - frustrating as it was - there were at least three great gigs on tonight, one of which I attended and created one of my all time favourite drawings - most definitely aided by the top class band performing :)

The three gigs tonight were the SXSW fundraiser at Stereo for Kid Canaveral who's recently been welcomed into the talented and eclectic fold of Fence Records. Sharing the bill with him was the burgeoning greatness of Randolph's Leap and the wonderful Martin John Henry formerly of De Rosa. Then there was Cry Parrot's night at Sleazy's with the crazy assed Vialka, the very splendid Tattie Toes and an improv super group made out of Jer Reid (Dawson, Issho Taiko Drummers), Shane Connolly (Tattie Toes, The One Ensemble), Douglas Marwick(7VWWVW) and Stevie Jones (Arab Strap and many more). At times like these one wishes one had a few spare clones kicking about. But they probably wouldn't draw. They'd just get drunk and dance...and then I would kick them. :)

So the concert I actually attended with pencils in tow was that of the marvellous Efterklang - hailing mostly from Denmark, although scattered about via Nashville, Berlin and Copenhagen. I was very fortunate to be surrounded by some lovely voiced uber fans who sang along to most every song, in a mostly pleasing way - there was a bum note in there somewhere:) Tonight was part of Efterklang's last tour for a while to concentrate on album work and other projects. They've been touring fairly solidly for 3 and a half years so I guess they're allowed a break. They played after the beautiful film screening of An Island - Watch It!! - a collaboration with the infamous film/visual/audio artist Vincent Moon.

Efterklang, Oran Mor, 24022011 featuring Heather on Piano, Peter on Violin, Mads on Laptops, Dan on Guitar (who mysteriously evaded getting drawn...), Caspar on Vocals, Rasmus on Base, Thomas on Drums. Brilliant.

Libyan troubles, Supporting your local indie record shop, Billy Bragg, Wet Sounds and Margins Festival

2011-02-21T08:27:00.000-08:00

Well, it's been quite a weekend.

For a start, keep yourself updated with the awful situation in Libya right now - this link is particularly good and seems to be regularly updated faster than any other source of current news - please share - http://revolution2.moonfruit.com/

Regards independent record and music shops needing our support that in turn benefits the musicians - Avalanche record shop in Edinburgh posted this. We need to think as a community.

Sunday I caught up with a dear friend who I'd been meaning to catch up with for too long. We met at the gorgeous Hillhead bookclub for the boutique vintage and craft market Granny Would Be Proud to have an exciting little snoop - there's so many fun and cool things there and very affordable! You can have a bit of fun dressing up for a vintage style photo, try some delicious cupcakes, some very dainty and quirky hair accessories and vintage glasses frames, some delightful and grin-inducing fun at Bunny's table checking out her Tennents, other beer and various sweetie jewellery, not to mention the big variety and quality of vintage clothing, china and jewellery in the last place you'd find damp and dust. It's a lovely thriving craft movement that should be visited and supported. Neither is it all girly driven, with things for the dapper chap too. Not all the same stall holders are there every time, it's normally twice any given month, so do check it out. The Hillhead Bookclub restaurant/bar is a converted old cinema, with gorgeous interior and intimate while also very family friendly atmosphere, tho' this might have something to do with the organiser supplying a lot of minutae to this particular event

Fred, the gal behind it all is moving to Manchester where it sounds like she's found a fantastic and equally quirky venue for her growing GWBP boutique empire where even the chefs in the restaurant will be tailoring their food to fit the well thought out theme of the craft market. The attention to detail at the one in Glasgow was certainly admirable and really a pleasure to experience.

After that, I cycled my trusty ridgeback over to the North Woodside leisure centre for Wet Sounds, a totally immersive music and sound experience. I was glad I turned up a little later as apparently it was hoaching at 5pm. I turned up around 7pm for another 40 minutes, which if I'd known it would finish 20 minutes earlier than it's advertised time, I probably would have made the effort to be a tad earlier myself. In saying that, it was a pretty cool experience, with subtle blue, red, and green alternating stage lighting shining down from the upstairs changing rooms, with some lighting underwater - one participant likening it to the film The Abyss. A little discontertingly, about 4-5 scuba divers were under the water with big packs on their back - I didn't really pay them much attention to see whether they were wearing actual underwater speakers on their backs, I was more distracted by the sounds above and below water, trying to experience the separate, the combined, while realising my swimming lungs ain't what they used to be. :)

But grab yourself a float under your legs, lean back, scull and occasionally bump into other contented and slippery individuals. The sounds itself were a mixture of collected everyday as well as film samples, with continuously evolving soundtrack. The only part I recognised was the typing scene in The Shining where Jack Nicholson is aggressively chastising his meek wife Shelley Duvall for disrupting him. This was under the water, with a sinister drone above. The lighting had changed to an eerie blue. Yep, I loved it. :) It's £10 so I recommend you make the most of it if you can catch one, and stay in the water the whole 3 hours until you're resembling something from Cocoon.

The whole of Burnt Island were there, I just focused on Rodge for once.

(Yes, it's another iPad drawing :)

The Adorable Dan Wilson/Withered Hand (iPad Drawing)

So after the swim and a duly enjoyed snicker bar, I wheeled off to the third and final night of the Margins Book and Music Festival at Stereo in time to catch the headline literary legend Tom Leonard speak truth and beauty - 'it's a part of being free and honest' - commanding attention with his gravelly vernacular. Afterwards, the bands were on including Where We Lay Our Heads, Burnt Island and the hugely engaging and beautifully humorous songs of Dan Wilson aka Withered Hand who delivers his songs with equally self-deprecating joviality.

It was only £1 quid to get in, and if I'd had any cash to spend I would have invested in ANYTHING on the Cargo Publishing/Margins Fest Merch Table. It looked like a candy shop of desirables. The Year of Open Doors, Withered Hand and something from Alan Bissett sounds like what's going on my Birthday wish list.

Meanwhile I have to say I can't help but be pretty chuffed that after drawing the excellent and inspiring Billy Bragg, he wants to buy one of the pictures, as well as giving me some lovely publicity on his facebook page which has garnered a lot of attention and some highly entertaining commentary - http://www.facebook.com/photo.php?fbid=10150092698692471&set=a.249499147470.158205.44905697470&comments

I can't wait to share a presspit with someone knitting their experience :)

The actual concert was a rescheduled one because of our epic snow storm where Billy was trapped on the motorway south of Blantyre for about 10 hours. It was a brilliant concert, with Billy invigorating and encouraging rather than pontificating. Very entertaining and absolutely inspiring, I really was buzzing with positivity afterwards. Billy and his right hand man Grant on sound were solid chaps, great to meet them as well as his pal Nicola. After offering me a beer, and some good chat on drawing, the Clash, and 'snow in a can' they went off with his rider of beers to visit the Glasgow University Occupation at the ex-Hetherington Research club. Top bloke.

Billy Bragg is a master of words. So this is the wordy one.

Paper/Watercolour Drawing

He is also a man of poignancy.

Paper/Watercolour Drawing

Darkstar and Zoey Van Goey

2011-02-16T17:46:00.000-08:00

Darkstar at Nice'N'Sleazy's, Glasgow. Great and Throbbing and Dark. Loved it.

Zoey Van Goey's 2nd Album Launch. Brilliant and lovely. Always so.

Born To Be Wide - Music Photography Panel

2011-02-04T06:47:00.001-08:00

A great night of banter, advice and anecdotes - couldn't help but be aware of the music photography heavyweights sat relaxed and aware of their legendary status, but it was great to experience the fresher faces of Christine Kernohan's thoughts and beautiful and inspiring imagery as well as hear self taught photographer Alan Dunlop's experiences.

Would have been good to have an iconic photo of each artist projected as they spoke, but since it did take the form of an informal chat I imagine this would have been quite tricky and even distracting. We did predominantly see Mr Cummins photos, incidentally he was also doing book signings this afternoon at Avalanche music store in Edinburgh's Grass Market and promoted the fact he had limited edition Joy Division postcards he was selling. Notes taken.

Inspiring, levelling and I'm sure quite a bit of an eye opener for budding 'live music photography' enthusiasts.

Main conclusions of the night? Perhaps that you're not doing yourself or the photography industry any favours by continually giving away your art, time and skills for free. Also diversifying with personal projects as well as 'bread and butter' work will motivate your creativity, inspiration and survival. Never give away the rights to your photos as you can then make money from your photos eternally - look at it as your pension. Load them onto a photo stock agency and/or speak to someone specialised in licensing. And above all, regardless of infinite all nighters, jostling for space in a press pit, the controlling PR companies/promoters - if you don't enjoy what you do, don't do it.

I might just add a final quote from one of the speakers 'See if they die, you're quids in - Seriously - always work with someone who looks unhealthy'. :)

Panel Speakers -

Kevin Cummins – www.kevincummins.co.uk

Alan Dunlop – www.alandunlop.net

Christina Kernohan – www.christinakernohan.com

Brian Sweeney – www.sweeneypix.com

Audio Visual Ecstasy - 'Art's Birthday Party 2011' in iPad Drawings

2011-01-17T11:28:00.000-08:00

Brian Williams aka Lustmord - Detail

Brian Williams aka Lustmord - Overlord of Sodra Teatern

The Mighty 'Lustmord' aka electronic music/sound artist Brian Williams. The whole of the theatre was captivated in his sinister, black & painfully perfect visuals and rumbling compositions. (Bar one enthusiastically clapping dude

Known more for his music and sounds created for films like The Crow as well as eyeball twisting soundscapes for bands such as The Melvins and Cradle of Filth, here was an absolute legend basking in the pleasure of dominating the audience's attention like some dark inwardly chuckling overlord.

I had the brief but innate pleasure of experiencing some of his talk the evening before with sonic samples at the incredible purpose built Audiorama - 'Audiorama is acoustically and visually designed for the exclusive listening experience. It can hold a seated audience of 70 people, and houses 21 speakers in separate channels, surrounding the listener from floor to ceiling. In addition, the room is equipped with dynamic, programmable light enabling great possibilities during playback.' Sounds incredible right?

The Magic State

Detail of the artist Nadine Byrne of The Magic State, playing visual screenings and live electronic music centering on the female human body.

redUniform - detail

redUniform

Detail from 'redUniform' aka the multi talented musician/visual artist/inventor Fredrik Olofsson from Sweden who developed this piece of wizardry during 6 months as Artist-in-Residence at IAMAS, Japan. See http://www.fredrikolofsson.com/f0blog/?q=node%2F303performance for more specific details.

I had the brief but innate pleasure of experiencing some of his talk the evening before with sonic samples at the incredible purpose built Audiorama - 'Audiorama is acoustically and visually designed for the exclusive listening experience. It can hold a seated audience of 70 people, and houses 21 speakers in separate channels, surrounding the listener from floor to ceiling. In addition, the room is equipped with dynamic, programmable light enabling great possibilities during playback.' Sounds incredible right?

Part of the 'Art's Birthday Party 2011' taking place at the esteemed Stockholm Södra Teatern and featuring a mighty line-up of exciting audio/visual artists from Sweden and abroad, spread over 3 great locations.

Just a Quickie...

2011-01-10T15:01:00.000-08:00

So I've been creating various different things in the past week, catching up with 'bizness' and quite excited about a project in particular that myself and sound designer Gav Fort are beginning - the 'findings so far' to be performed at the annual 3 day Sound/Thought festival at the beginning of February, our particular night being the 5th.

It takes place at the inimitable Arches multi-arts venue, and will be audio/visual. That's all I'm saying.

Meanwhile, here's a quick sketch I did on my iPad while the view rushed past from the train to Edinburgh. A beautiful snowy day.

Off to Sweden on Wednesday with a huge suitcase full of books pillows and some stupid old computer that no-one would steal but it sure is heavy! I'm having to take out books and leave them behind. :( But a stint in Sweden is on the cards, and the slow shift of 'stuff' is officially starting.

Just a few more trips to cart this lot over...(cough). Yep, think I'll need to stop being such a squirrel and sell it, donate it, or worse.

Little extra discoveries.

2011-01-03T17:51:00.000-08:00

St. Vincent (Annie) and David Byrne have been collaborating inspired by the lovely intimate little show they saw with Dirty Projectors and Bjork, the video of which I saw a wee while back and loved.

St.Vincent has/have been on my radar for a little while now, and I have to say, I very much enjoyed this video of her/their tour I've just watched. Better get her the next time she's over this way.

January Ensues - Monday - Research, Inspiration, Activities and Future Plans

2011-01-03T15:56:00.000-08:00

The lovely open plan fire place at my parents house during Christmas - my first official drawing on my very own iPad. With the annoying and way too sticky 'muvit' stylus that doesn't exactly 'muvit' very well. :) But we'll make friends never the less.

(The above is a wee bit of fun/birthday message for the artist who 'inspired' me to buy Inspire Pro, complete with a wee quick sketch of an owl from Legend of the Guardians, another animation that I really fancy seeing. Saw 'How To Train Your Dragon' the other night - excellent :)

So, moving on.

Today was very much a research day. As well as a drawing day. 2011 is most definitely the year of drawing drawing drawing in SO many different ways.

Discovered some new art and artists, including the very intriguing Gordon Robin Brown, the folk behind the massive multicoloured sculptures in the CCA that I saw recently who I found to be Joanne Tatham and Tom O'Sullivan - the sculptures will apparently be unfolded on some unused land that could otherwise be used for the great good/surrounding communities, though this I need to check up on. Then there was the great international video/multimedia artist Nam June Paik who's retrospective show is on at the Tate Liverpool until March. I so very very much need to see this show. I can't believe I've only just learned about him - he apparently heralded the arrival of the internet way before it was a reality. For any artist interested in multimedia and/or interactive art this is a MUST.

Then there was Interpretive Touch Drawing - Which appears to be intuitive reflections of the 'soul' in response to live events, poetry readings, lectures, live music. The music on the video isn't my sort of thing, but I like the process and I'm sure it can be very therapeutic. Might give it a try for some automatic drawing responses, a path I'm leaning to follow this year instead of drawing what I see with my eyes, but more the images I see with my mind in response. Try to tap into that ol' subconscious of mine to music that irritates, moves and motivates me to respond emotionally and dynamically.

Regards checking out art collaborations for the benefit of society - I found this image from the front cover of Scotland's free arts magazine Variant - the last panel discussing collaborating with a Police College particularly interests me. I've had lots of experience with primary aged children, and not so much with Secondary aged which I feel a real desire to do as it's the one part of society I know least about.

So today I did some normal paper & pencil sketching of Basil the dog as I took him for a walk in the park, a quick sketch of myself feeling a tad more determined and forward looking about this year than I felt last night. I also bought a couple of new apps for my iPad and tried one of them out via recommendations from a couple of artists who lives across the Atlantic. Thanks L and F - I'm much looking forward trying them out. As many art apps as possible. I was inspired to get Inspire Pro as it was on sale - if you're lucky and read this quick you might get it also, as well as ASKetch for super cheap. I played around with Inspire Pro and managed to start to enjoy some drawing. Not too keen on my current 'muvit' stylus from playline that I'm trying as there is too much friction. Thinking of regularly daubing it in talcum so it glides better. I'll give ASKetch a try tomorrow.

So then there's a multi-arts party in Stockholm very conveniently while I'm there for a week which sounds absolutely excellent -

'In three venues there will be experimental sound art, performance art, noise, electronica, techno, video art, art-pop, art-rock and DJs.'

Right up my street :)

Finally, for a bit of woman power to make sense in the world, seeing as how the 100th anniversary of International Women's Day is happening on the 8th of March this year, I looked up two links - the first from a fellow artist/musician Kim who shared this link (if you can knit - go for it, or even better, learn!). Then finally this empowering video of first Halla Tomasdottir, a female financial advisor from Iceland discussing the past, present and necessary future for a sustainable economy in Iceland and the global community, with an extra beautiful video afterwards about four African women with very different dire needs being given the help and support to then share it with others.

Just before Christmas, Wintercycle, Jer Reid, Music and Art

2010-12-21T02:40:00.000-08:00

Wintercycle Duo with Jer Reid - Picture 1 - Wacom/Computer Drawing - 10-15 mins

Wintercycle Duo with Jer Reid - Picture 2 - Paper/Watercolour Drawing - 10-15 mins

The above drawings were done with - and to - Jer Reid's beautiful and inspiring simultaneously created 'soundtrack' on Thursday 16th December as part of his Wintercycle collaborations. A cathartic experience, really quite stupendously wonderful feeling afterwards. My own voice unexpectedly became part of the performance as I spoke throughout on my thoughts of Christmas, family, love while latterly discussing the tenuous process of 'drawing the experience' when drawing from the imagery in my head inspired by Jer's music, recall, distractions, loss and gain via head to hand translation as well as unexpected influences. A gentle but powerful process in an intimate and encouraging space. Some very lovely feedback too. Which is nice :)

Wintercycle is a truly wonderful project, bursting with promise, potential and excitement before each 31 highly unique one-off performances. It's only £1 and every session is recorded sonically, and through Jer's own poetic reflections on his site http://wintercycle.wordpress.com/. An absolute gem to be discovered every day. If you could make one, it would be wholly worthwhile and even enlightening. Every day from 5th December until Tuesday 4th January 2011.

Something completely unrelated but just came across this chap Colter Jacobsen's memory work and found it amazing. http://www.sklatch.net/thoughtlets/memory.html

Also, too late now for Christmas, but my friend put me in touch with this blog and it's got some fantastic stuff on it, with great little background's/reviews too. I'm all up for crafts at Christmas. Next time. :) http://wannekes.blogspot.com/

Approaching Christmas

2010-12-21T01:40:00.000-08:00

As I write this, an apricot glow illuminates the old square church tower and frosted trees infront of a smokey platinum blue horizon. I have a lovely big window that lets me see to the end of my snow covered street in the suburbs of Glasgow. Christmas is in 4.5 days, my Swedish boyfriend is flying in from Stockholm on Christmas Eve, and as long as we can get our arses up to my folks house in the Highlands, Christmas will be magic. It always is at our house. Sure we have our arguments and heated stress that the timing of everything for the Christmas meal isn't quite on target, but my Mum is indeed an amazing cook (also world porridge champion 2007 incidentally :) and all senses will be in a high state of anticipation.

I have been blessed with a creative and DIY proficient family, my mum in particular who will have the family home decked out in hand crafted decorations, the Lodgepole Pine tree will be standing on the warm wooden floor surrounded by restored antique furniture, long heavy rich drapes hanging, ceiling-floor windows distracting you to the chuckling iced up river outside...there's almost too many things to describe that make it all magic, but I'll give it a try.

There's no tinsel in the house. Everything is wooden, glass, paper, painted leather, perhaps some plastic, but not obviously so, the wreaths made by mum have pine cones, dried orange slices, moss, holly leaves, pine branches, some delightful vintage ribbons, some 'tasteful' artificial red berries to give that extra snap of colour, swags of similarly decorated swags of lodgepole pine branches hang on each rustic wooden door. Simple clear glass fairy lights shine amongst the branches of the tree, lighting up an array of varying little wooden and glass decorations, all well-loved and collected over quite a few years.

The smells of warmed pine needles (which incidentally don't drop off - that's one of the extra perks of the beautiful Lodgepole Pines), a real wood fire, delightfully hot and potent mulled wine, toasted Stollen bread with real butter accompanied with a glass of bucks fizz to toast Christmas morning, then later the smells of roast turkey, pigs in blankets, beautifully roasted potatoes and vegetables, deep glistening fruity red cranberry sauce, tangy sweet and rich in taste, the smell of cracker-snaps and the wearing of gold and silver paper crowns, not to mention the blue inferno of the lit Christmas puds :)

We do indeed play board games afterwards too when we're too stuffed to move, after all the dishes have been done and the massive gas stove has been duly cleaned - which doesn't take long when we all chip in. TV is rarely watched save for some movie suitable for all including Nana who's 90 years young. That might be after the games, considering Christmas dinner is normally eaten at about 5 there's tonnes of time left afterwards for entertainment.

The whole of Christmas day is spent at home, although we may have time for a wintry afternoon walk with the family dog MacDuff, our big hairy and mischievous Spinone and if we're honoured with the presence of the family cat Conan, it's an extra slice of entertainment.

The celebrations will have started the night before by going the very lovely midnight mass - full of warm wishes and camaraderie, singing carols and noting everyone's bright eyes. Dad has a somewhat tune-challenged voice, so my sister and I are normally trying not to gut ourselves during the carols. Dad has in the past been caught reading a crime novel or dozing during the service. It always ends with well wishes, hugs and card/gift exchanging before a small bite to eat/drink/cath-up in the Priest's house before heading home, adaptable to how much snow/ice is on the roads.

This year Mattias my boyfriend is joining us, and I hope he enjoys sharing what the rest of us find special about Christmas. It's always been magical, but it is about the family, all coming together from wherever we're based and showing we care by giving thoughtful presents. It is absolutely not about the biggest or flashiest present, which I've always found terribly ostentatious - folk trying to outdo each other so their kid can go to school and be the envy of all the others. You shouldn't feel worth is measured by material wealth, but by the love, understanding and trust of those you care about, and all lending a hand to make one particularly beautiful time of the year truly special. Merry Christmas to you all, may you be with your nearest and dearest, be well fed, warm and happy.

CENSTA PARTY

2010-12-03T20:52:00.000-08:00

Recoat Gallery Live Painting

Awards being handed out

Audience watching the beautiful film Chez Galip by Bobby Niven

Live Visuals by Florence To, with some revellers

Live Visuals by Florence To, with some revellers Detail

Live Visuals by Florence To, with some revellers, 2nd Image

CENSTA PARTY, SUBCLUB

These drawings are of the festive/birthday/book launch-ish party of the very exciting art(s) collective Central Station which is based in Glasgow and the rest of the world. It's online, it's a community. There's sh*tloads of exciting artists, film-makers, collectives, designers, galleries, initiatives, ideas...etc etc etc.

So me, I was commissioned to document this splendid happenng in my unique style with something alternative and new - my mobile phone.

Drawings were created live on my Nokia XpressMusic mobile phone. The actual drawing screen is c.7x4cm and I draw with the attached stylus (which is easy to lose. In a nightclub, perhaps I should paint it glow in the dark for easy retrieval).

Photos feature in the images entitles Florence To, the photos featuring samples of her visuals in the background. To put it mildly, she's a rather exciting art person/veejay/fashion designer/generally pretty cool chick. Keep an eye out for her.

Lloyd Cole, Broken Record, Sodra Teatern, Mosebacke, Stockholm

2010-11-18T16:45:00.000-08:00

Lloyd Cole and his 2 accomplished compadres.

Lloyd Cole - Detail

It was a brilliant concert in a perfect venue, so many classics as well as songs from the new album, great audience and the sound was excellent. Great to draw a legend. Top night.

Doubt anyone will appreciate how difficult it was to draw though! It was on an iPad, but the calibration of the pen was out by about 1.5 centimetres in quite an off kilter way. This made drawing SUPER tricky. Wonder if anyone will appreciate how sodding tricky it was. Still pleased with the result though :) A bad workman blames his tools...

Instal - 2nd Installment (Plus Resonance Radio Today)

2010-11-14T08:07:00.001-08:00

Steven Anderson 19.05 - 15 minutes

Repeated readings, beautiful singing, and the porting of collected clothing.

Christopher DeLaurenti, N30:Live at the WTO, 19.30 65 minutes

I should add that this drawing was done in the dark, so I couldn't see it being made, I was solely aware of the boundaries of the page/sketchbook by touch alone. The writing reflects on the page what sides of the room that I was hearing the recordings. Predominantly the loudest noises/words/(the demonstrators) were coming from the right, with the Police Radio Off the the left and upwards. Fascinating experience, half embodying the recorded event.

Iain Campbell - 20.45, 15 minutes (10 minutes)

An expression of conditioned helplessness from mass media/consumption.

Florian Hecker, Speculative Solution, 23.10, 40 minutes

Marvellous. Most active and creative audience participation.

Neil Davidson, 22.00, 15 minutes

Spontaneous combustible sound.

Catherine Christer Hennix, Zero Time, 22.25, 65 minutes (continuous loop)

Intense. Most appreciated it from lying down stance.

Tam Dean Burn/Resonance Radio, Carpark/Clydeside/Bridge/Science Museum Coffee Break, 12.20 - 14.10 Random listening and notetaking.

Garlic Fart Bubbles not included. But just about as comforting.

--------------------------------------------------------------

More written notes added tomorrow. Perhaps.

Suffice to say, was a much more resonating experience during the 2nd day/evening of Instal.

1st Installment of Instal - Friday Night.

2010-11-12T17:51:00.000-08:00

Instal: Barry Esson Introduces

Resonance Radio Orchestra with Tam Dean Burn

" " [sic] Tim Goldie

Lucio Capece & Christian Kesten - The Borders play Sunno(((

Diego Chamy, Jean-Luc Guionnet & Seijiro Murayama

Matthieu Saladin

Mattin: Object of Thought

-----------------------------------------

No Disc, , Em, Eject. - Matthieu Saladin

I can't hear what I sound like - Mattin: Object of Thought

Why does the 'song' sound better than (that)? - Diego Chamy, Jean-Luc Guionnet & Seijiro Murayama

Flash, Crash, (Neon White BatBat), Whistle, Crunch, Ker-Chunk - " " [sic] Tim Goldie

So Barry asks me, since Sir Sean Connery's too auld, Gonne walk in a spiral Tam? Make it mathematical, a bit of mathematics willnae hurt anyone..., so I'm gonna talk on this mobile, which is a pretty lightweight thing, for 48 hours - it's just the battery that weighs 7 kilos - which is why I've got this rucksack. Resonance Radio Orchestra with Tam Dean Burn

(These phrases are brief summaries written in the order of me remembering the events of the night, starting with the most uncomfortable due to its poor delivery, and omitting the one I momentarily forgot, 'Lucio Capece & Christian Kesten - The Borders play Sunno(((' which made me feel only slightly uncomfortable, slightly weak, and wishful that I'd wanted some soup)

The drawings were created on my mobile phone in series that slightly differ from each other, unless the repetition is significant to a long moment/pause.

I would like to add in retrospect, that last night opened my eyes to how many boundaries I've placed upon myself as an audience member/viewer/listener. I can blame my drawing for my lack of audience interaction, however I still wish I'd got up and danced in the sonically active darkness and communally composed chaos that was Mattin's piece, while also wishing I'd read out the label given to me by Lucio/Christian reading 'Do we really need someone on stage pretending to make us think?'

I will state that when I was given this piece of paper, I was aware of the action though ignored the performer while he searched his pocket for his piece to give me. I then fobbed it off to my friend to read out, whilst loudly proclaiming it in my own mind. I had also been struck by the negative psychology of it - Should I read this out and inform the audience that the performers had planned it all along, and in doing so, accentuate it in their minds, or shall I leave them to wonder the performance's relevance to themselves. Whatever, there were enough elements to the performance to make it a little confusing. I haven't quite sussed it all in my head, yet. The longevity of it perhaps making it all the more successful.

I also want to add someone commenting on his depression at the poor audience answers in the show by Diego, Jean-Luc and Seijiro. Most of those selected randomly with a microphone became unwilling to pause, to compose, to answer with a notion of what they really felt or thought. This experimental festival Instal, by its nature should have audience's expectant of their active engagement, their boundaries impermanent, constantly questioning rather than taking it in passively, not to answer impulsively 'no' to the question 'Do you know what improvisation means?' Audience members were instead rendered nervous high school students unwilling to proffer an answer that illuminated their ignorance publicly. However, this festival is all about the beautiful mistake, the willingness to make oneself feel uncomfortable for progressive enlightenment, it's about identifying what boundaries there might be, and then crossing them, and above all, surely its about the fun of discovery?

Remember Remember people. Remember Remember.

2010-11-05T18:59:00.000-07:00

North American War

iPod Drawing

Remember Remember

Paper Drawing

Tonight was the EP Launch of renowned multi-instrumentalist and all out music geenyus Graeme Ronald who's birthday it was today, of all days. Cue 'Non-fiery-but-almost-as-equally-fun-firework-stage-set-design by Robbie, Jack and Judd (was also Jack's birthday too). Apologies if I've got one of the artist's name wrong. Judd did the owl on the tree, and the other two did the amazing gadgetry/rest of the wizardry stuff.

Supported by North American War fronted by the sinister yet sultry Anna.

The music by Graeme and his highly skilled troup were on fire themselves. Bloody brilliant. That's all I'm going to say. Oh, and 'Epic'. Okay, that will do now. You'll just have to see RR live yourself if you haven't managed already. Also check out their great video 'Imagining Things' by Gregor Barclay.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3VQbFP5fqfM

Happy Birthday! The List's 25th Birthday Party

2010-10-25T07:07:00.000-07:00

The List has been an indispensable publication regards finding out about things enjoyable, entertaining and enlightening in Scotland and beyond (up until The Skinny came along!). Friday night was it's quarter century birthday.

Fantastic Line-Up, a 'Loud Room' with Come On Gang (First experience of them - Excellent and fun!) King Creosote, Errors - as well as - curated by upcoming publishing company Cargo, a 'Quiet Room', which got less so as the night progressed.

So attached above are a couple of 'mobile phone' drawings, one of the acerbically talented Malcolm Middleton playing beautiful instrumentals with an occasional teasing amount of lyrics as his latest guise 'Human Don't Be Angry', with the other drawing of Alasdair Roberts legendary self.

This was a night off for me however, so I was merely there to observe and listen, not to draw. It was difficult though, and my lack of drawing distracted my attention.

Bear in mind these drawings are less than half the size when I'm actually drawing them. Disadvantage to Nokia 5800 XpressMusic is that it doesn't zoom like Brushes or Sketchbook Pro on your iPod/iPhone/iPad can. You just get what you see though it makes for some interesting stylistic mark making. (These particular pictures were lots of fun to make!) I can admit that. I will.

Sounded like a great line-up of DJs/dance music from the likes of JG Wilkes, Kris Wasabi, Joe Howe and the Pretty Ugly DJs, though I'll be honest, I missed most of them. Also missed Den Haan as spent most of the night in the 'literary' room where I saw the very lovely and superliciously talented Anneliese Mackintosh, RM Hubbert, playing a really heartfelt performance, as well as the young and gifted Allan Wilson who was selected for the very exciting new collection/book from Cargo Publishing - 'The Year of Open Doors'.

Left around 2.15am after the totally magic Graeme Ronald of Remember Remember, his many gadjets, gismos, pedals and guitar, not discounting his can of Iron-Bru. (Also, I swear to god, he has a pedal like the one from the spaceship in Flight of the Navigator, I kid you not!) I can't WAIT for his album launch coming up at Stereo on 5th of November (Remember Remember Kids, Remember Remember.) It will be AMAZING.

I wonder how Hidden Doors went during the weekend. I hate not being able to be in two places, or even 3 at one time, but a girl's got to do, what a girl's got to do. I also missed Ballboy, The Just Joans and The Bobby McGees as part of Edinburgh's Popfest. Grrrr.

Norfolk Court Flats, The Gorbals, Demolition

2010-10-03T12:31:00.000-07:00

10-11.15am in the rain on a not exactly warm October morning, a little hungover, a little cold, wondering when the building is going to explode. Or implode. Implode would be better - I didn't bring a helmet.
The drawing did start with a lot of dark watercolours, but the rain washed it away.

11.15-12.12pm still in the rain on the same 'not exactly warm' October morning, a little hungover, a little cold, wondering when oh when oh when is that sodding building going to explode. Or implode. Implode would be better - I still don't have a helmet.

12.30pm, and two long sirens later, no longer is it raining on this 'warming up' October morning, still a little hungover and getting a bit hungry, more than a little cold but WELL happy I just witnessed the excitement of a building going ''BANG-B-BANG!!- RUMBLE!!- CRUMPLE!!- PHWOOPH'' as the massive muddy cloud envelops it's neighbouring twin, which one day will endure the same fate. (I hold back my feverish maniacal cackle. That place used to be a home. I'm sure lots of people are sad, but hopefully a lot of people are happier.)

Sasha Frere-Jones, New Yorker Journalist, thinks I'm alright :)

2010-09-30T16:15:00.000-07:00

A drawing of the Björk interview at Skandia Cinema

http://sashafrerejones.tumblr.com/post/1082777648/a-drawing-of-the-bjork-interview-at-skandia-cinema

Excerpt -

'Above is Jenny Soep’s “paper memory” of the Björk interview. (Click here for PDF of original—this 500-wide image is too small. Several family members are upset that the image doesn’t look like me. I think the effect is just fine. The hands are pretty good, as is the nose.)'

The above excerpt and link is to the blog from the 'Hailey Ehsteemed Dood' from the New Yorker (and other pretty damn fine publications too) who was the official interviewer for Bjork at the Polar Music Prize, gives me a mention -http://sashafrerejones.tumblr.com/post/1082777648/a-drawing-of-the-bjork-interview-at-skandia-cinema. Ya wee beauty Sasha :D I would also like to add that I was late for the interview because of a traffic jam on the road from Skavsta airport, but still the organisers were well up for me drawing and ushered me upstairs at the back. Couldn't see a blinking thing really, so I'm utterly gobsmacked he reckons I got his nose and hands :D

What a Week - DRN CONVENTION, JONSI, AND ROCK CHIC

2010-09-19T09:06:00.000-07:00

Jónsi

Well, what a week indeed. Infact it was so full and fascinating I completely forgot to write it up! 1 day only now till I head for Sweden until Sunday, then back to fair Glasgow for 3 days before I head to Moscow where I will be having lots of fun doing a week of music inspired art workshops to a range of ages from 2-13! Can't wait :) Have been advised to take warm clothes.

So the Jónsi week began with a lost and found train journey at 6.50am from Glasgow to Brighton, where with a second journey re-planned out and executed I arrived there half an hour before I had been initially due to. All hail the milk of human kindness and that lovely lovely train guard.
Thus my itinerary for the next few days was set in motion. 'Get to Brighton, meet up with some great friends in the evening - Don't get drunk! Wake up and refine presentation for the Drawing Research Network Conference at Brighton University, Enjoy at least a couple of talks, remove heart from mouth, do my own presentation/workshop flawlessly (or at least impassioned and engaging!), relax, enjoy the company of other drawing professionals in the golden glow of post-presentation, then gather art materials and paper for drawing Sigur Ros's Jónsi, whose own performance is later that very evening. Great co-incidence, and very much a 'killing of two birds with one stone' affair.

For those not in the know, I have arranged with Jónsi and his manager that I draw 3 concerts of his current UK tour, so tonight being my 2nd, the 5th of Sept. in Glasgow being my first. The aim is to gather up a visual collection of improved knowledge of his stunning show, involving beautiful projections, animations, special effects and ultimately gorgeous music. The third and final one in the UK will take place at the HMV Apollo in London on the 26th of November. It's sold out, so if you can get a hold of a ticket via a respected ticket re-selling site and can get to London, I would thoroughly recommend it - this final show will have the full works, the mighty skill and creativity of London company 59 Productions who designed and made the visual effects. It is a piece of art, and one of the best live music performances you will witness for quite a while.

So after the wondrous concert at the Brighton Dome, it was time for my last night in the fair seaside resort before I headed off to London for a couple of meetings and a night on a thames barge with some great friends and a good bottle of wine. :) Travelled to Glasgow the next day, with one nights grace before the highly anticipated Rock Chic charity event the next night.

It went over and above my expectations - what a great night! Totally class entertainment - when there wasn't a band playing, there was a fashion show with a fab choice of clothestuff, a brilliant cocktail maker/juggler/man of dynamite, stunning sparkly cocktails or glasses of fizz on entry into the venue, very tasteful balloon, flower and glass table decorations, a stall with brilliant, quirky and very tasty little custom-made cakepops, along with projected music doodling by yours truly, and masterful veejaying by Scott. Also my drawings wouldn't have been possible without Jazz's expert light wizardry. Drawings below, and lots of money raised for the Paul O'Gorman/Beatson Leukaemia Research Centre in Glasgow.

Figure 5

Attic Lights

Pooch Poochettes

Soul Foundation Beginning

Soul Foundation - Getting into it - Total Visual Carnage! Yes!!

Belle & Sebastian - A New Song

2010-09-09T02:14:00.000-07:00

An excellent little video on a 'quite famous' band entering a new phase of existence and music economy after a hiatus following their successful existence in the crumbling old one. Great little piece with Zoey Van Goey, Maple Leaves, Wake the President, Butcher Boy and Remember Remember offering thoughts on the situation of the current Music Industry.

Belle and Sebastian are curating a fantastic second version of the Bowlie Weekender which was the initial 'Music Festival in a Holiday Resort' model that spurred on the amazing ATP festivals to have occured since.

December 10-12th, berths are nearly sold out. So get yer best music appreciating pals together and get in there. It's going to be amazing.

BOWLIE 2 TICKETS HERE

Jónsi, 02 Academy, Glasgow, 05092010

2010-09-07T16:49:00.000-07:00

Exquisite, bustling, quiet, beautiful, frenetic, joyous, a call to arms and to hope, a call of the wild, of nature, of seasons to show that the world still turns, life exists and will survive. A peacock tail of sun rays in a period of economic gloom. En masse, the little man can turn things around.

What a show, really, seriously. The unique sounds, imagination, atmosphere and sense of play from the multi-talented Jónsi and friends. The award winning UK based 'Fifty Nine Productions' is the team behind the amazing special effects and stage design. It really is something special, and will make any gig you can make, one to remember. Shows are indeed selling out though, so really you need to act fast or check on reliable ticket reselling sites. They do exist - a friend of mine got tickets to the November London show for face value. And that show my friends, will definitely be something to talk about.

So this picture, is phase one. My first impression. As you can tell, I noticed a lot. Keep your eyes peeled for the 2nd picture I do at the Brighton Dome next Tuesday.

Some fun on the iPad. Calvin and Hobbes-esque...

2010-09-07T00:46:00.000-07:00

Purely to take advantage of having a 100% bonafide iPad!iPad!iPad! in my grasp, I have been using it to get to know the wonders of Sketchbook Pro and it's little foibles too. Could still learn WAY more, but as it is, I didn't make full use of all the tools since I am primarily a line based drawer. But this is what I managed in a week of having it. The drawings were based on a friend and his girlfriend who are very much bouncy, happy, mischievous, very busy and creative folk themselves. I'm sure you'll notice some added accessories and tweaking to some classic C&H images, and some scenes designed completely by myself. Rockin'. :) The scenes are all things they plan on doing together. Très romantique non?

Team Calvin and Hobbes

Just Doing Nothing

Tigerbike

Jive Dancing

Going Adventuring

Stargazing

Gardening

Toasty/Fireside

Finding some free time

Going Into Business

Ticked Off - Getting Stuff Finished.

Polar Music Prize Drawings continued.

2010-09-05T16:25:00.001-07:00

Little Children played a short set at Restaurant Riche where there was an aftershow party. Beautiful decor inside, a lot of plaster of paris moulding around huge arched mirrors, lots of reflections, lovely setting, cool place. Lots of characters in there too.

Little Children played about 4 or 5 songs of Ennio Morricone/Western styled music. Really well done. This drawing was done on the iPad. Very useful little device that! You can check their myspace out at http://www.myspace.com/littlechildrenmusik

Robyn was excellent. It's hard to perform a cover of such a seminal piece by such an identifiable voice and formidable presence as Bjork, but she rose to the challenge commendably. Bjork released her first album at age 11, Robyn at age 12, interestingly enough.

I've decided to add in this picture even though I'm going to 'doctor' the face to make it look more like Robyn. But this is mostly what I drew on the night (legs added later), and I'll add the later 'updated' version. I like the image though, and the way the words have turned out beside it.

Robyn drawing edited.

Don't think Human Nature could be performed by a better musical pairing. A great take on Bjork's song, and I'm sure very intimidating to be doing so in front of the great lady herself. The singer definitely got into it and obviously enjoyed herself. Backed by the Royal Stockholm Philharmonic Orchestra, there was fantastic build up and beautifully composed 'quiet'. Terrific.

http://www.myspace.com/wildbirdsandpeacedrum s

All Is Full Of Love - Bjork

In one of the intervals they showed this amazing video (also one of my favourite songs too), which is (to me) a futuristic take on the creation of geisha. Although to be honest, it's probably more just about creating companions. It really is beautiful. I drew most of this on the night but added a bit more detail from the actual video.

The Polar Music Prize

2010-08-31T10:28:00.001-07:00

Ennio Morricone's 'Deborah's Theme' performed by Barbara Hendricks. Incredible.

What a powerful and beautiful ceremony to be a part of. Captivating and inspirational, the music fills your senses aurally, visually and emotionally. Discovering more about the person behind the amazing compositions, and witnessing their humanity, will be unforgettable. Björk being pretty much my all time favourite musician/artist, and my ability to get swept away by Ennio's music made this particular pairing for the prize a monumentally auspicious event.

It was also a real joy to witness - with drawing - Björk's talk with The New Yorker's Sasha Frere-Jones. Although my flight and late connecting bus meant I had to creep in upstairs at the back, along with my short-sightedness, it wasn't the most dynamic of drawings, but I do like how the text has taken on a music like pattern, dominating the 'reportage' with floating rhythms. This picture to come, along with sketch of Wildbirds & Peacedrums. Ane Brun gave my favourite tribute to Bjork, her voice very unique in itself, although Robyn and Wildbirds & Peacedrums were excellent too.

All in all an amazing night, though I think a different seating/drawing arrangement is necessary - bit tricky balancing a paint pallette, water, brushes, pencils, board and paper, while needing to let Mr Tuxedo and Miss Ballgown get to their seat, never mind the constant standing/ovations for the Royal Family and prize winners ;).

Here's one of the videos of the performance where you get to spot me!

http://www.polarmusicprize.org/prize-ceremony/2010-2/

Check me out at 07.08 minutes right after the documentary on Ennio Morricone (and yes, I've been greeting a bit), and then again drawing Barbara Hendricks - I'm a little hard to spot the second time - Dark grey clothing, light blue scarf between two men in tuxedos. Third row, right of the middle - there's a woman in the front with a pink dress. I'll try and find the exact time for that one. There might be more sightings but I haven't had time to look yet.

Marie Ledin, the daughter of Abba's manager Stig Andersson who started the Polar Prize emailed me today to thank me for my Barbara Hendricks picture and is looking forward to the other ones.

Cool huh? :D

KMR'S No Dancing - Adam Stafford, Deathpodal, RM Hubbert and PAWS

2010-08-28T05:50:00.001-07:00

I expected the night to be great and it was. Could have been more people though - c'mon! Poster was great, venue was great, acts were great. What did people have to do last night? You're all just a bunch of dancers.

What have I been up to? Tangents...and sweary words!

2010-08-26T15:31:00.000-07:00

Taken from 'Blitzy Boy's Night On The Town'

Ah, it's all been a bit chaotic recently. I've been working on a lot of doggy illustrations for a lovely children's book called 'Blitzy Boy's Night on the Town' written by Maria Walker Cairnie about a group of doggy pals who know the value of friendship and having a good time with your mates. Based in Glasgow, it's been very much inspired by a lot of dogs, and a few folk too, who I've happened to meet in the city. Suffice to say it describes a theoretical slice of what it might be like if dogs had places to hang out and have fun without their owners. It's been great fun and I look forward to working with Maria on the next book in the series, which all support the interactive events she has produced including the Blitzacise class for kiddies and this upcoming Saturday - Raining Cats and Dogs If you've got kids and you're into dogs, I would suspect it might be a lot of fun!

I also recently found out I will be flying out to Moscow in October to teach a week of arty stuff to a school there. The hope is to do drawings inspired by music and is for all ages from age 2 up to 13 - it's going to be some project!! Really rather excited about it. Will keep you posted on developments.

Sunday I'm flying out to Sweden and will be attending the Polar Music Prize on Monday with sketching tools in tow. Björk and Ennio Morricone will be receiving their prize from the King of Sweden himself. I think I possibly might die of excitement. They've put me really near the front while Mattias will be sitting up on a balcony somewhere! Don't know if I'll be drawing on paper or iPad yet. Will have all the materials at hand anyway, so will be decided nearer the time. Did you know Bjork is doing the soundtrack for the animated film 'The Moomins and the Comet Chase'? That is going to be two loves in one!

Speaking of comets, here is a little video of the recent comet shower as seen from the Joshua Tree National Park, sound track by Sigur Ros - gorgeous little film - see it here - http://vimeo.com/14173983

I've also been in talks with Jonsi (of Sigur Ros) and his manager and have organised to draw three of Jonsi's concerts on his UK tour. Having watched the videos on the 'Making Of', the whole show looks like it's going to blow my mind. It looks amazing. I urge you to check out his website, music, and especially the videos. It's going to be really special drawing his show - Iceland really has created some phenomenal musicians.

What else have I been up to? I guess I should put my recent (and first ever) drawings on the iPad - more to come soon.

Quickbeam - click to get a link to their myspace - lovely stuff.

And then there was the guinness fuelled soiree in the oldest pub in Glasgow - The College Bar. Rich pickings for salt of the earth character in there I tell y'! I needlessly worried that my boyfriend Mattias who's from Sweden might have difficulty enjoying or understanding the banter that was being thrown about, but he was right in there insulting them back. Guess having a healthy obsession with Rebus, Cracker, Ian Rankin and UK comedies like Monty Python and more recently those by Armando Iannucci equipped him with a certain sensitivity. Paper and pencil supplied by the lovely College barman Stuart, drawings were then left with the boys to copy and distribute amongst themselves. Warning: Expletives abound. :)

College Education from Alan, Howard, Jake and Jim.

The long suffering College bar man Stuart.

FISH, ARCHES, 08082010

2010-08-09T17:34:00.000-07:00

A moving night. Fish in great voice, and terrific stage presence. A lot of emotion emanating from an adoring audience.

One Creative Scotland TV Pilot

2010-07-31T20:01:00.000-07:00

Tragic O'Hara

Emma's Imagination

David Duffy

David Duffy, Tragic O'Hara and particularly Emma's Imagination were great on the intimate stage of the 'acoustic' studio B, playing on the small (and very warm) stage infront of the fairy light studded midnight blue drapery . Bigg Taj and Louie were f**king brilliant in studio C which was cosily decked out in some retro patterned interior decor by the 'Made in the Shade' gang.

Thumbs up to Clare Kelly and The Tollhouse folk who obviously slogged some hours to get it organised and functioning so well. Very entertaining night, great space, some intriguing artwork, and a very lovely vibe about it. Jim Gellatly was cutting a mean shape with his mohican - that greeny-blue is definitely a good colour.

The sets were running a little late I think, as there were still two bands to play when I left around 11pm. But it was so bloody convenient for me to get there! No 75 from Kings Park all the way to right outside the studios. Mega. :) I'm well up for more gigs there.

Don't know when/if we get to see the TV pilot, but fingers crossed for them, and best of luck with all their editing this week.

Owls, 2nd Hand Marching Band, Sarah Banjo, and RM Hubbert

2010-07-29T18:51:00.000-07:00

Yep, as I'm writing this at 2.51am there is an owl hooting in the street outside - brilliant! Hope it eats the slugs and snails that have been massacring my basil and sunflowers. Wee bawbags.

Anyway, asides from that.

Been experimenting with my iPod touch and I think I'm finally managing to make friends with it, though blow me if the rubber bit on the end of my special stylus isn't wearing out and producing burning smells! I have to say, the NOKIA appears much more dependable so far, simpler, although I have just recently purchased 6 new stylus since I've lost 4 already. It's just so easy to lose that darned stylus when you whip your phone out your back pocket/handbag/shirt pocket etc. I wonder how long 6 will last me. :)

Anyway. Just going to upload the iPod drawings I did tonight, plus a few more showing my progression from total rubbish, to getting used to it.

Great night tonight at the 13th note. Second Hand Marching Band, Sarah Banjo (freshly heard and much enjoyed), and RM Hubbert. Class line-up, finished off nicely with Peter, the band leader, leading everyone to sing a chorus at the back of the room, and those that had been notified/seen his posting about writing a verse (see my post below) stood very tentatively around a microphone with their 15 seconds of fame or complete humiliation thrust upon them in friendly manner. I felt the latter.

Nah, not totally. I'm pretty sure my singing was sh**e, as my voice has been locked away in a cupboard for 3 years and I've been shouting through the keyhole all day, hence tonight I was warbling away quite unlike the nightingale I fancied. It's all in the words of the verse right? Ha.

Intense though. Felt like a baptism of fire, but luckily everyone was freakin' nervous so I didn't feel quite so bad. Apparently all the verse writers/singers will get a cd through the post of their efforts. I'm looking forward to experiencing that! ;)

Damo Suzuki, and this Thursday at 13th Note - Marching Orders with the Second Hand Marching Band

2010-07-26T15:27:00.000-07:00

I did not go to see Damo Suzuki on Saturday at the CCA, Glasgow.

Since my decision not to go and see him play 2 performances - one with Vars of Litchi, and the other with the Glasgow Sound Carrier Collective featuring members of Ug and Tattie Toes amongst others - my stomach has been in knots at my knowing creative sado-masochistic deprivation. I missed, what sounds like, a total experimental, exciting, improvised quality evening of legendary status, with the chap who was found busking in a street in Germany only to be recruited that night as front man of the leading avant garde krautrock band Can. This was back in the days when their experimental music/artforms were kicking boundaries open with the force of a cornered man witnessing his freedom diminish.

This blurb is from the CCA website. Cry Parrot incidentally are a great collective that are increasingly becoming respected for booking excellent and quality experimental/revolutionary musicians/artists

'The goal is simple, for musicians to communicate with each other and with the audience. There are no ego's involved. Musicians send smoke signals to each other. They respond in kind. Damo selects musicians who have the potential to communicate freely and who are able to respond honestly to each other in the here and now. This also involves a respect for and dynamic communication with the audience. Both Damo and Can refer to this process as Instant Composing. Each concert is a unique event. There are never any rehearsals. Mistakes are moments of opportunity. For the musician, this process is in equal parts exciting and terrifying.'

With so much mirroring my own style of drawing music, why oh why oh why did I prioritise an alternative. I have my reason, and I'll just have to suffer it. But damn. I really wish I'd gone.

Meanwhile, I'm unable to attend this great little event, but I would thoroughly recommend it for any musically tainted folks with an itch to get creative. Second Hand Marching Band are great folks, as is RM Hubbert. Both with beautiful musical talents of their own. Check it out.

http://www.thesecondhandmarchingband.co.uk/me/

Vile Imbeciles, 13th Note, Glasgow

2010-07-08T16:23:00.001-07:00

They were great. They played to a non-audience and they were still great.

Infact, they ARE great. You better see them next time they're up.

Iain Campbell was also entertaining with his collection of detritus with sound making potential. I don't think anyone could replicate the dark menace in which his crisps were munched. A John Cage/found sound/simultaneously creative piece.

Cheer produced an inspired aural atmosphere for all that he was playing to a vacuum of non-audience. This chap is talented, but it's the second time I've seen him and there's been a distinct lack of folk. Is he too experimental? Does he support those that are too 'alternative'? Are there too many venues in Glasgow now?

Glasgow is indeed spoilt for places to play and to listen. As an audience, we've become lazy in our aural learning capacity. Is it possible to have too much music-oriented enlightenment? It is however much easier for bands to hone their talents at live performance, with the support of technicians and promoters. As long as the lack of an audience doesn't dishearten. Persistence get's you everywhere.

Commercial Alternative: All day alternative music fest at Mono

2010-07-05T08:01:00.000-07:00

Great day, poorly attended (I'm assuming) due to crappy weather, but to be honest, c'mon Glasgow! It was an indoor festival!

My personal highlights were Remember Remember and The 1990's, as they were so bloody tight - Remember Remember had the most amount of folk I've seen in it yet, was bordering on epic, and was great to meet Graeme's Mum who was the most vibrant one in the crowd - go Margaret! I can definitely see RR headlining a main stage somewhere. Top class.

Was the second time I've seen The 1990s live, and I really want to see them again. They just blast energy off the stage and they just meld together so well. Great songs, music, musicianship, presence and engagement with the audience. Bloody brilliant. When oh when will they play the UK again?

Great to discover Astral Planes, and finally hear/see Girls Names, Golden Grrrls, and Peter Parker. (Numpty that I am I completely didn't recognise Roz from Peter Parker who also plays in Miss The Occupier. Different hair, though I had my sneaking suspicions it was the same girl from photos of PP I'd previously looked up! Twat-head strikes again.) Peter Parker snarl out a sexy fifties rock/punk flavour, delivered in tattoos, scratches and pouts. Like it, a lot.

Astral Planes was also sexy and snarly reminding me a bit of Chrissy Hind, Patty Smith and The Kills. Girls Names produced really creative and mesmerising sounds and songs - Beautiful!

Golden Grrrls I've been meaning to see for a while now, with their drummer Eilidh who is great and has been with other bands I've meant to see but never managed. Looking forward to where they head with this.

In all, it was a quality line-up and I would definitely see them all again. If I hadn't been experiencing the mother of all stomach cramps and wanting to vomit for the latter half of the night, it probably would have been one of my best days in the year, especially if I hadn't retired at the end of the night and gone home. I mean seriously, what a lame-ass.

Mono is most definitely one of the top three magnetic poles for experiencing GREAT music in Glasgow if not the UK. The building doesn't provide the best accoustics, but for the consistently great gigs that play there, the fantastic music shop, expos, food, top class beer as well as their own home-made ginger beer, best drinking sun-trap courtyard and the relaxed atmosphere, you really can't beat it.

(Drawings will come)

This week: Swimmer One and WPM at Creation Studios,

2010-06-28T15:49:00.000-07:00

(Isn't this a great poster by (if I've got it right)

Dep Downie?)

There's a keek load of stuff on this week. With what I've talked about below, plus New Works New Worlds at the Arches, Glasgow from Wednesday to Saturday, George Burt's improv guitar with the wierd and wonderful kinetic sculptures of Sharmanka Gallery as part of the 'First Thursday' monthly evening event at Trongate 103, plus the Kelburn Garden Party this weekend with Broken Records, Meursault and Panda Su to name a few, it really is going to be tricky deciding what to do, where to go. Especially since I bet there's also a keek load of great stuff in other places I haven't mentioned. I forgot to also mention Cryptic Nights this Thursday at the CCA, Glasgow. Why why why, is there only one of me...

Friday night in Dundee is the launch party of the Guerilla Gallery, hosted by the most entertaining and talented visual wizzos RetchyVSmash - Check out their website to see what beautiful and what 'f**king nuts stuff' they do. And if you want to submit five of your best digital images (no videos this time) email them at guerrillagalleryinfo@gmail.com (deadline this Wednesday).

Y'know Andrew Eaton, arts editor of The Scotsman? Well he just happens to be in a cracking band called Swimmer One and they're playing Glasgow this Sunday at 'Words Per Minute III' at Creation Studios with his band Swimmer One - check out their myspace. http://www.myspace.com/swimmerone

Also check out the Words Per Minute site for the full line up - www.wordsperminute.org.uk Everyone should go to every WPM. It's a feast for all the artistic sensibilities you may have or didn't know you have. Inspiring, entertaining, affable, engaging and great quality. Organised by a few of those involved with Discombobulate, it is guaranteed that your culture-o-meter will whoop up to the next level in a very enjoyable manner. 3.30 - 6pm with DJ sets by Miaoux Miaoux between 6-7pm. £2

However, it kind of unfortunately clashes with some of the cracking all day music festival 'Commercial Alternative' with The 1990s, Phantom Band, Remember Remember, Comet Gain, Spectrals, Golden Grrrrls, Astral Planes, Peter Parker and Girls Names. If the tickets haven't already sold out, get one. It's going to be a really brilliant day of music. The very very nice poster is designed (I think, if not please someone correct me) by the rather talented Dep Downie of Monorail Music himself. I hope they're selling copies of the poster too!

- http://www.monocafebar.com/ £20 (+ bf) if there are any tickets left - phone 0141 222 225

Also on Sunday is the 'Say No To Plastic' vintage summer sale is on at the Oran Mor (church) at the top of Byres Road.

http://www.saynotoplastic.co.uk/ 12-5pm £2

I'm pretty sure you could manage a wholesome piece of all three Sunday events if you're super organised and mobile, but otherwise, keep wishing for the invention of a speedy clone machine.

King Creosote, and Admiral Fallow w. guest appearance by Ken McCluskey and Pictish Trail

2010-06-16T17:55:00.000-07:00

What a great gig. Beautiful. Nearly had me in tears at least twice. (But I'm a girl, that's allowed...Hah! If I was a guy, I'd be the same!) Kenny Anderson has a voice that melts butter. Admiral Fallow were stoked at their support slot. Every time I see they them they're great, Louis is a brilliant word-smith, singer and musician and they all work well together. Hope to catch them at a headline gig, as the amount of time I had already left me wanting more. Found them particularly hard to pin down tonight, so I drew a bit from memory.

Definitely one of the best gigs I've been to this year.

P6 SHOWCASE, THE GORBALS, PAST PRESENT AND FUTURE

2010-06-15T16:20:00.000-07:00

This is a little sketch I did (on my Nokia mobile phone again) of the wonderful show tonight by the P6 classes from Blackfriars (who I've been doing a drawing project with), and St Francis which is just along the road from them.

It never ceases to amaze me in all the many schools I've taught, how every student is different and so full of talent and potential. I get the feeling from Blackfriars that they're really focussed on finding out the potential in every one of their students, celebrating their achievements from getting in the finals of a national competition with their dance troup, to ice skating, running and even doing a bit of gardening.

This particular show dealt with The Gorbals in the past, present and future involving drama, writing, dance, breakdance and a bag load of new found confidence. The Caledonian Club from Caledonia University were behind this inspiring project which was showcased in the beautiful St Andrews on the Square also involving participation from The Gorbalites, a group of 50+ who had a good few things to show the 'kids' but where they seemed to really collaborate with them too.

With great special effects on a large projector screen, top acting, great costumes, and LOTS of scene changes, it was a high class production which really brought the community together, and a lot of proud, inspired parents, family members and teachers. These kids had so much humour, skills and ideas that they brought with them, which were made reality with guidance from students and tutors from the university. The show dealt with bullying, grafitti, litter, and other modern day issues, while also looking at activities and the sense of community in the past and present. The future really got the imaginations going, and all of it was tied together with adverts from the era for Zoom Washing Powder!

Really great to witness it, and really cool to afterwards get a roll and sausage/bacon, tunnocks tea cake and wine or juice to wash it all down. :)

Have an Atomic Day, and just remember, Education Changes Lives!

TechnoLashings

2010-06-14T02:04:00.001-07:00

I need to leap the void into new technology. Ah, the endless possibilities...

Free Palestine, Edinburgh Demonstration against Israel

2010-06-06T07:00:00.000-07:00

Yesterday I attended the demonstration in Edinburgh to free Palestine, decry the killings aboard the aid flotilla, and request an international boycott of Israel.

My week started with an awareness of limited knowledge on the situation, and has since concluded with hopefully a much more educated understanding.

When the time came at the end of the march and demonstration - a massive turnout of 5000 people - for significant speakers to say a few words, I had to agree with most of what was said. Certain valuable points were met with roars of approval from the crowd of demonstrators, however their lack of voice to support one impassioned speaker with his hope to retaliate to Israel's recent act by returning in increased numbers of ships but with lethal intent. 'We will Kill You!' was met with silence from the listeners which though still spoke measures, should have been peppered with disagreements.

I do not believe in 'getting even' which is what another speaker suggested, but the overall message rang true - Israel needs to accept talks with the democratically elected Hamas to heal the fractured state of Palestine and work on a solution of communal living in peace. South Africa managed it, Northern Ireland managed it, and as much as Britain and the USA have played their part in the mess in the first place, and though the atrocities committed by both sides must not be forgotten, they now need to assist in persuading Israel that it is a necessary action for the peace and well-being of these two states.

The aim behind the aid flotilla was to gain international attention and focus on the totally unjust situation Palestine is in, and work towards ending the blockade.

As Henning Mankell put it (the Swedish writer of Wallander and one of the peace protesters on board the aid flotilla) -

"So as not to lose sight of the goal, which is to lift the brutal blockade of Gaza. That will happen.

Beyond that goal, others are waiting. Demolishing a system of apartheid takes time. But not an eternity."

Henning Mankell.

Washington Irving Single Launch, Mono, Glasgow

2010-06-03T16:58:00.000-07:00

Great night. Drawings to come toute de suite. Unfortunately missed the lovely Randolph's Leap (made up of six folk which has grown from the one that I saw last time). Another time soon.

Jarv from Endor was good, and I was super impressed with The Social Services. Washington Irving were on top form. If I hadn't been drawing, I would have been swinging someone around by the arm or any other spare limb on offer.

Pictures to come.

Allotment, Govan and the John Cage MusiCircus, Tramway

2010-05-30T16:42:00.000-07:00

A very cool photo of me painting with UV paint at the NTS Allotment project in Govan.

By the lovely Judy Chee.

RM Hubbert, MusiCircus, Tramway

Ruth Morley, MusiCircus, Tramway

Ug! MusiCircus, Tramway

Drawing Ug! MusiCircus, Tramway

Hummingwards, MusiCircus, Tramway

It's been a busy weekend. Been doing some not bad improv painting to some quality improv music using ultraviolet paint on a big black wall under U.V. lighting (inhale of breath) as part of the last instalment of Allotment by NTS (National Theatre of Scotland), which has been the most fun I've had in ages. What a great project and special thanks to Fergus and Roy for initially having me on their proposal, to Caroline and Angie for producing the show, to the most cool Kai - the helpful Art Director, and to Fi, Kate, and Peter for all their top wisdom, help and lovely selves! It has been such a cool experience.

So that was three days of my life.

And then there was Tramway's John Cage MusiCircus full of Music Frolics and Mayhem and beautiful things. It really has been such an inspiring, engaging and fulfilling weekend. If I get any picture's I'll stick 'em up. (As you can see, pics have been stuck up). Night night for now. It's been intense.

Support Popcop's Plight!

2010-05-20T14:23:00.001-07:00

Ah, that's a good punchy tabloid heading if ever I saw one! But it's for a bloody worthwhile cause. The Google monster has salaciously and unjustly consumed 3 years body of work of this fine fellow who if anything has hugely promoted and supported the Scottish and Internationally creative music scene. I had always been impressed at his finger on the pulse and grasp of how best to facilitate the eager music fan into discovering quality bands, musicians and artists working with as well as pushing the boundaries of pop, all for nowt but his enthusiasm to support.

This coming Sunday on Song by Toad you can read an exclusive article on Jason's plight though there are already a few places where you can read a very worrying, disturbing, disgusting and downright frightening abuse of power on the very folk who are supporting their peers in the creative industries. See below for links.

Incidentally, please join the following facebook page to show your support -

For anyone who's ever lauded their favourite band online/offered encouragement to the music underdog/practised their right to free speech/enlightened anyone with a band or song they haven't heard/is excited by the great possibilities for art and music that the internet affords but is utterly utterly disgusted by the giant corporations who shoot down the very people supporting the cause -

http://www.facebook.com/group.php?gid=117117618325342

http://songbytoad.com/2010/05/the-internet-needs-some-sensible-fucking-laws-please/

http://www.theskinny.co.uk/article/99337-the-pop-cop-rallies-against-google

http://www.musicalliancepact.blogspot.com / This site also gives you instructions on how to email google at support@blogger.com to request his site be re-instated or at the very least get his content back.