ALEX ROSS: Artist of the Month

I didn't think of any word the first time I saw Alex Ross' works but... PHENOMENAL!

A master painter like him comes once in a lifetime and he has definitely carved an edge with his style and true to life rendition of iconic comics characters. In this regard, I think I've finally established that one of my criteria in choosing "artist of the month," is somebody that does something unique. A signature work. A style developed only by himself that when you see his artwork you can easily identify it as his, and with this, Alex Ross is tops.

I must suggest that Ross is one of the artists that elevated comics illustration into an art form. I haven't seen anybody that comes close to his picture perfect layout and rendering of super hero characters with the use of the traditional brush and paints. I must say he actually inspired me to use gouache paints, a medium he normally and masterfully uses, in my winning entry at the last Red Bull Art of Can competition here in Dubai. I even mentioned his name in my entry form as one of my inspirations. Although my piece was obviously waaaay too far... with the quality of his art, with the win I think somehow that I gave justice to his name.

Anyway, to all those who still argue that comics is not an art (oh yes they exist...) and to those who are familiar with the mastery and the artistry of the maestro... to thee again I say... YIELD.

Indulge more in Alex Ross' masterpieces in his official site that can be found here.

The 111TH PHILIPPINE INDEPENDENCE DAY Celebration in Dubai

HAPPY BIRTHDAY DAD!!! CONGRATULATIONS BARCA!!!

Yesterday, 27th of May will be one of the most memorable.

It was the day FC Barcelona made history by completing the "treble" (Triple or Grand Slam) a rare feat, only four teams have actually done this winning the Spanish Cup, Spanish League and yesterday the Champion's League. Not to mention they are the first Spanish team to pull this off. What's more awesome was that they did it against a very formidable foe, Manchester United who by the way is the defending champion, holder of the last "treble" accomplishment (1999), this year's Premier League Champions and considered right now to be the BEST football team in the world.

What's more interesting is that Barca won all these championship games in a span of 2 weeks. Showing consistency and desire for winning as a team and exposes the leadership and the motivational skills of their coach, Coach Josep Guardiola, who is only in his first season for Barca.

But more than Barca's rare feat yesterday..., it was actually my Father's birthday. My Dad is not a football fan..., 'cause it bores him to death. However, it gave me a good reason to rejoice his day even where far from each other. While he's in Manila celebrating another God-given year..., I am here in Abu Dhabi reveling the victory of my favorite football team. A toast to you Dad on your 61st birthday and a salute to Coach Guardiola, Messi, Eto'o, Henry and the rest of BARCA..., BARCA..., BARCA!!!

Artist of the Month: FRANK FRAZETTA

Frank Frazetta is an icon.

I believe that no single moment could have passed, to most Filipino illustrators at my age and the generations that are ahead of us, without thinking or have been somewhat inspired by the fantasy world created by Frank Frazetta.

I remember the times when the Internet was still alien to me, that I would scamper in bookstores, cut out magazines and wait for Xerox copies my Father would print, just to lay my eyes in Frazetta's works. But now a click of the mouse would lead you to a number of sites that feature his works and would make you appreciate what genius this artist has.

Known for his depiction of the characters Conan and Death Dealer he stamped his mark in the industry that it was like all portrayals of these barbaric figures in movies, TV, comics etc., should be based in what he has created. His paintings literally grab you and make you shudder in horror, as if your waiting for the next sword that would cut you and worst hack your head to God knows where.

There are lots of artists influenced by Frazetta and there are tons more who copied, imitated and based their style in his works, like Simon Bisley and Boris Vallejo, but no one comes close to the rugged beauty and heroic style of his fantasy art.

His mark will forever be ingrained to artists like me and his style will always be an inspiration. A classic, epic painting style that only he can fashion. Truly a mark of an ICON.

BYAHE TAYO!!!

Let me share this nice video and song promoted by the Philippine Department of Tourism entitled "Byahe Tayo." I don't know if the English translation would be "Let's Travel," but that's the closest meaning I could think of.

This video was done long ago, well not that long but for sure I was not in Manila anymore when this came out. (2005 maybe?) I've been an OFW for almost 5 years already..., and stuffs like this pumps me up especially when the month of June comes near. I saw a newer version by one of the most famous lady singers from a big Philippine TV Network but what I like better about the old one is the effort of putting well known Filipino artists together in one inspiring video. It even featured the late rapper Francis M doing what he does best.

It's nice to see the beautiful side of our country from time to time. This is one of the things that makes us OFWs sane and in believing that there is still hope for our motherland.

It's flashback time and also my first time to upload a video here in blogger... so enjoy!

KOMIKON 2009 "SUMMER FIESTA"

Time Of Humanity

Ngayong araw na pong ito gaganapin ang one-man exhibit ni Darwin "Japat" Guevarra, bise-presidente at isa sa mga founding member ng GuhitPinoy UAE, sa Tashkeel Gallery, Dubai. Pinamagatang "Time of Humanity" ang exhibit na ito at iso-showcase niya ang mahigit 40 artworks na may iba't-ibang rendition ng central theme which is about 'TIME.' Ito rin marahil ay continuation ng kanyang style at subject ("System of Humanity"; see photo below) na ipinanalo niya sa nakaraang Sheikha Manal Young Artist Award na kung saan nakamit niya ang Grand Prize.

Japat is continuously making his mark in the Dubai art scene making him one of only a few Filipino Artists given a chance to have a solo exhibit in one of the prime art galleries in the UAE. Japat and his works have been featured in different publications here in the Emirates and one of the recent was a documentary being made by artist and film maker Katy Chang.

Aside from spearheading GuhitPinoy UAE in Dubai, Japat will soon be busy sharing his creative skills as he was chosen to teach photography in one of the clubs supported by the Philippine Consulate in Dubai.

Featured Artist of the Month: ANDRZEJ DRAGAN

In a wink of an eye, in one of my uncool hours I just decided to put up this feature in my blog, "The Artist of the Month." Interestingly, this could urge me to constantly blog at least once a month and maybe soon thereafter I will add other monthly features so as not to be downtrodden by my inactivity and idleness. This feature will showcase artists that I find extraordinary in their contribution to the field of Visual Arts.

So..., first up is, ANDRZEJ DRAGAN.

I was completely stunned and humbled the first time I saw his work in Digital Camera Magazine. It was like..., hey, this is something that I cannot do. Until of course I saw some Photoshop tips to "Draganize" a photo. But still, his images are the stuffs that take you aback and make you admire their intriguing beauty and subject. Although, I don't freaking know how to exactly pronounce his good name, at first it sounded like he's an old veteran photographer the likes of Elliot Herwitt and James Nachtwey, until I found out he's just in his early thirties. This man is a genius..., he graduated cum laude in his Phd in Quantum Physics, winner of various international music composing competitions and one of a kind artist/photographer. Geez... he is an epitome of a Renaissance man.

Here are some of his compelling images and the link to his site.

Comics Workshop in Cadiz City

Mukhang tuloy na tuloy na ang Komiks workshop na co-sponsored ng GuhitPinoy sa pangunguna ni kaGuhit John Becaro na gaganapin sa Cadiz City, Negros Occidental. Isang malaking responsibilidad ang dala ni John sa activity na ito, subalit dito natin makikita kung gaano ka-passionate ang mga kasama natin pagdating sa kanilang role bilang advocates of Komiks art.

Mabuhay kayo John sampu ng mga kasama mong organizers. We pledge our support to you and in this event.

Salute!

What Else Do I Do?

I do a lot of drawings, illustrations and storyboards here in the agency I'm working with but some friends are asking what else do I do aside from these.

Well, being a Graphic Designer requires me to use CG tools like Adobe Illustrator and Photoshop. Aside of course from page layout software like InDesign and Quark Express, I personally use on my PC, Corel Painter X for digital painting and Strata 3D for dimensional drawings. However, when new iMacs came in our office we haven't got the chance to install 3D tools on it. So, I have to go back using Photoshop for presentations that require a little 3D effect, and here are some it.

Photoshop is a very useful tool for this purpose, you just have to have an eye for perspective to make it look real. And you know what? If there's one thing that these presentations really do is..., it make me save time doing "mock-ups" for the client. No cutting, no pasting, no dirty work. Just present it to them like showing pictures and that's it! Don't leave the imagination to them or you'll get nowhere. Haha!

GUHIT PINOY UAE BRIEF HISTORY

I am a humble member of this group we founded more than a year ago, and up until now I feel blessed to be one. So here is a brief history of our organization that has grown by leaps and bounds but never forgets to touch the ground.

GUHIT PINOY UAE BRIEF HISTORY

"Guhit Pinoy UAE is a duly recognized and registered organization of professional and budding Filipino artists under the auspices of the Philippine Consulate in Dubai. Founded by a group of visionary artists hailing from different backgrounds and expertise, Guhit Pinoy started with a dozen members and grew into one of the biggest all-Filipino art group in the UAE. With diverse visual arts disciplines such as painting, photography, graphic design, sculpture, illustration, fashion design, filmmaking and even modeling, Guhit Pinoy has already produced award-winning talents in national and international arts competitions.

Guhit Pinoy UAE is the local chapter of Guhit Pinoy Global, the founding organization established by a group of Filipino comics illustrators from Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. With hundreds of thousands of Filipinos working overseas, it was no wonder that the organization swiftly grew legs and gained momentum. Guhit Pinoy has now truly gone regional and even global, with chapters all over Asia and the United States. Most of its founding members are currently affiliated with multinational advertising agencies such as Fortune Promo Seven, Impact BBDO, Memac Ogilvy, J. Walter Thompson, Publicis, McCann Erickson and others. Some of its international members are veteran artists working in multinational production firms like Walt Disney, DC Comics, Marvel Comics, Pixar, DreamWorks, Warner Bros., and 20^th Century Fox.

Born of a passion for creativity, Guhit Pinoy UAE is a product of individual minds coming together to craft an organization of artists whose main purpose is to promote Philippine arts. Thus, its initial project was a group exhibit held at the Global Village in Dubai inside the Philippine Pavilion during the 2007 Dubai Shopping Festival. Entitled “Unang Guhit” (First Stroke), the show was met with enthusiasm by the international community, thereby inspiring other Filipino talents to join the young organization. 

Guhit Pinoy UAE regularly hosts some of the most exciting and stimulating art activities and sessions for Filipinos in the country. Likewise, the group actively participates in various art competitions sponsored by public and private institutions all year round. Its socially-oriented activities include participation in last year’s Environmental Clean-up Drive held in Mamzar Park sponsored by Dubai Municipality. Future initiatives include creating a program to assist distressed Overseas Filipino Workers (OFW) as well as establishing fund drives to support charitable institutions in the Philippines.

Recently, Guhit Pinoy joined the national art competition, Red Bull Art of Can 2008 edition, through a group entry entitled “Unified Chaos”. The collage/mixed media piece was a product of true collaboration—springing from each member’s abundance of artistic gifts and generosity of spirit. The output reflected Guhit Pinoy’s guiding credo of teamwork and unity. To cap 2008 calendar of events, Guhit Pinoy UAE with the other international chapters, took part in the 4^th Philippine Comics Convention held in Manila last November at the University of the Philippines, which was attended by hundreds of comic book enthusiasts.

To date, Guhit Pinoy UAE boasts of fifty (50) members residing in the UAE and more than a hundred online members. Guhit Pinoy Global members are spread around the globe and represented by these chapters: GP-Riyadh, GP-Jeddah, GP-UAE, GP-Beirut, GP-China, GP-Manila, GP-Bacolod, GP-Singapore, and GP-California.

Guhit Pinoy continues to spread its wings by providing a creative venue for people who have a genuine love for the arts and an intense passion for life."

- GPUAE Founding Members

In Support of Gary Granada's Case

I saw this posted in Soundcloud, tried researching the issue and found Gary Granada's argument valid. As an OFW living here in the UAE for the past five years, updating myself with Philippine news by watching GMA shows online, I can say I have nothing against the questioned institution. What I would like impressed here is the right of artists like us to claim recognition for what we humbly do. I don't know Mr Granada personally, what I know about him is the song "Bahay" which he composed and won the 1988 KBP Musicfest. I remember watching Gary singing this on TV with my Mom, who was herself a Quezon City Teacher's Choir soprano. 

So, is Mr Granada just up for the moolah or is he really fighting for justice? Is he standing up for us/artists or just seeking sympathy? You tell me, after you listen to this. 

KONG HEI FAT CHOI!!!

Happy new year to my Chinese roots!!!

And since 2009 is the Year of the Ox, let me post this artwork I did entitled, "My Year." You can also see some other works from my animal series all done with graphite.

We got tons of references from our image library here in the company so I thought..., why not draw it during my spare time. So, here they are... enjoy and Kong Hei Fat Choi!!!

"MY YEAR" Graphite on paper, 29.7cm X 21cm. Abu Dhabi 2009.

"BEAUTY" Graphite on paper. 2009.

"PRIDE" Graphite on paper. 2009

"THE FRIEND" Graphite on paper. 2009

"TUSK" Graphite on paper. 2009

Thank you... TIME OUT DUBAI.

I had an interesting interview recently from one of the popular 'zines here in the UAE and this is what came out of it. It was rather short cause I was actually in the office when Christopher Lord, the Arts and Culture Editor of Time Out Dubai, who was actually one of the Red Bull Art of Can judges, called me for this phone chat.

What makes this refreshing is that I was able to express somehow that there is an ongoing struggle of 'Filipino Artists' hunger to expose their works,' in this country. And if by any means I could have started the fire with this comment... so be it, I have to thank Christopher and Time Out Dubai for printing it.

Guhit Pinoy UAE regular art session held in Safa Park, Dubai. December 2008.

Image courtesy of Arian Marcos.

TIME OUT DUBAI 22 December 2008

What's happening in this painting?

It's about the different nationalities of the UAE all rushing after a diet red bull can. This is supposed to be the last one in the country, and the mob is rushing to get it. (You can read the rest of the interview here)

Red Bull Art of Can - Dubai 2008

You can finally see the official coverage of the Red Bull Art of Can 2008 in this link...
http://www.redbullartofcan.ae/

Don't forget to click the Media Space to see the Official Press Release or click here for... Red Bull's International Website.

Kindly visit the Gallery too, to see stunning works of art made by the Emirates' awesome artists!!!

Other links...

THE NATIONAL Newspaper by Ed Lake

---- The National Newspaper - Snippet

GULF NEWS by Amelia Naidoo

GULF NEWS Xpress Magazine by Pauline M. Forte

BUSINESS 24-7 Middle East Edition by Bindu Rai

WE DID IT!!!

This is one of the most unusual feeling i've ever felt in my entire life.

Last time I felt this was during my wedding and now..., after several years of painful struggles here in Dubai and Abu Dhabi I've finally come to claim a worthy prize. A prize aspired by many artists around the world, and here in the Emirates... We finally did it!!!

Yes..., the Grand Prize winner in the last Red Bull Art of Can 2008 edition here in the UAE!

My piece that I just posted down there, won it for us. Us, yes..., because there were several important people for me that played a vital role for this victory.

First of course is my wife Maria, who just arrived here in Abu Dhabi a few days before I actually started this piece. The angel who was always standing beside me, during the nights I created this work and up to the night we claim the award. My best friend, my strength, my inspiration.

My colleagues from GuhitPinoy UAE, Japat Guevarra, Ferdie Bernales, Jeff Quinones, Melissa Guevarra, Edward Yap, Orly, Bernard, Melchor, Jon, Jorald, Raks and all our members this trophy is ours.

GuhitPinoy Global this is for us too! Thanks for the motivation guys... especially to Edbon S., Randy V., Val P., Sonny DS, Gil Arceo, Dell Barras, Mark C., Marboy M., and to all KaGuhit... Tagumpay natin lahat ito!!!

My company here in Abu Dhabi, that sustains my living, Viola Communications and the rest of the gang. Thank you for all the good words.

My mother-in-law who believed in my creativity even before I officially became her son. To my wife's brothers and sisters and all my relatives I offer this to you.

And of course to my father Bob Turda, who served as my guiding light and introduced me to the world of arts. To my sister who always believes. My mother who's up there with God's angels watching all these triumphs. Thanks for being a part of me.

TAGUMPAY ITO NG LAHING PILIPINO! KARANGALAN PARA SA PILIPINAS! MABUHAY ANG DUGONG PINOY!!!

To God be the Glory!

I AM LEGEND

This gouache painting entitled "I Am Legend" (The Last of the BullyCans) got me qualified as a finalist in the recent 2008 edition of the "Red Bull Art of Can" national competition here in Dubai. Tomorrow, December 04 will be the Awards night and the regular exhibit will run from Dec 05-19 at The Galleria, Mall of the Emirates, Dubai.

Inspired by the movie of the same title, the fictional painting depicts the story of the last Red Bull can in the UAE. Artwork size is 122cm X 60cm, mounting board using gouache paints.

AJAAJ – The First UAE Superhero

I’ve heard about this comic book superhero some months back but didn’t mind until I saw a print ad of its theater play version. I thought it might be selling well that’s why the producers thought of bringing it on stage. It was shown at the Dubai Community Theatre and Arts Centre (DUCTAC) last August and ran for a month.

Ajaaj is touted as the first UAE superhero and set in the year 2020. The book was released in a hard cover format with a 44-page maiden issue which can also be downloaded in their website. Cover illustrations and promotional pages are excellent and could be so far the best that they’ve done here in the region. On the other hand drawings from the inside pages especially of the current episodes are just fair enough for their target audience who are basically kids from primary and secondary schools.

The site however is appealing and informative, it gives you all you need to know about the characters. It also lets you download latest pages from current issues and even has a dramatic trailer. http://www.ajaaj.ae/english/trailer.html

To pioneer in this industry is very refreshing in this region with conservative cultural background and it’s a good start to say the least. However my point of view dictates that the comic book needs a lot of consistency especially with the illustrations. At this point it was like Mark Waid doing “Kingdom Come 2” after Alex Ross did the first one. Got my point?

Ajaaj is produced by WATANI, a social development program headed by Mohammed Baharoon, Deputy Coordinator General.

THE RICHEST CITY IN THE WORLD

“You’re wrong…, it’s not Dubai.”

I chanced upon this article from CNN a month ago and was excited to share it with you. Why? Because I could not believe that I am actually here, living in it, the richest city in the world. Oh yeah, I thought too it was Dubai, but it’s actually Abu Dhabi the capital of United Arab Emirates. Here, where I’ve been working for a couple of years now and where the Emirates Palace, the most expensive hotel in the world was built. And contrary to some stories, that you have to pay to be able to gawk the luxurious edifice, it is totally untrue. Fact is, I got to gawk several times not only its gold plated doorknobs and walls but also expensive Picasso art pieces during one of its public exhibits. 

To find out why Abu Dhabi is right now on the pedestal, read the article here: http://money.cnn.com/magazines/fortune/fortune_archive/2007/03/19/8402357/index.htm

So, you know why this conservative city is on tops?

I’d rather not repeat and discuss what Barney had to say about this city ‘cause what I’d like to show are the projects that will soon be built here. From what I see, it could somehow rival Dubai’s stunningly outrageous skyscrapers and construction projects. Moreover, some of these will eventually put the capital in the world’s top tourist destination, being found only here than anywhere else in the globe. 

Folks here now is the future of Abu Dhabi… and I haven’t listed them all..., yet.

Tameer Towers

The Gate Towers

The Corniche Hotel

Reem Island Development

The Strata Tower

The Fairmont Hotel

Diamond Ring Hotel

Etihad Towers

Abu Dhabi World Trade Center

Abu Dhabi Convention Center

Ferrari Theme Park

And these are my favorites...

The Louvre Abu Dhabi

Guggenheim Museum Abu Dhabi

Abu Dhabi Performing Arts Center

Awesome eh?!!!

Pictures are copyrighted by their respective owners and used for the sole purpose of promoting Abu Dhabi as a new haven for tourists. - Author

GuhitPinoy at Komikon 2008

GuhitPinoy Global will be participating in this year's Komikon 2008 which will be held at the UP Bahay ng Alumni this coming 22 November in Quezon City. Founding member Edbon Sevilleno is currently in the Philippines to organize and facilitate GuhitPinoy's participation in the said event. The group was able to acquire 2 exhibition booths wherein artworks, illustrations and other masterpieces of the members will be showcased.

It is a well anticipated event where GuhitPinoy members from all over the globe are expected to come and be reunited with other veteran komiks artists. Randy Valiente and Marboy Macalindog, GuhitPinoy Manila moderators will be playing hosts for the members.

Here are the posters of the 4th edition of Komikon organized by our good friends from The Artists' Den and UP Luna Rock.

Here's the link to the official site... http://komikon.blogspot.com/

I'm doin' some sketches lately that eventually turned into final pieces. I usually start by sketching a hero pose and then build a whole scene from there. Not the typical process but works well for me.

"THE BARBARIAN"

Pencil on paper

"DATU"

Pencil on paper

Coloring the Masters

Isang napakalaking karanasan para sa akin na sa edad kong ito ay inabot ko pa rin ang mga mahuhusay nating dibuhista sa Komiks ng nakaraang tatlong dekada. Sa message board ng GuhitPinoy (Drawing Board), ay mapalad ko silang nakakadaupang palad, o sabihin nating nakakahuntahan sa pamamagitan ng Internet. Maliban sa nakapagpapalitan kami ng kuru-kuro at komento ay nagagawa din naming magpakitaan ng mga dibuho, drawing, painting atbp. At isa nga sa kahanga-hangang feature nito ay nakakapag-kolaborasyon kami ng mga gawa.

Simula ng ako ay bumili ng Pen Tablet ay nahumaling ako sa pagkukulay digitally sa Photoshop, at dito nga sa blog kong ito ay nai-post ko na ang ilan sa mga katas ng kakaibang teknolohiyang ito. Masasabi kong nabawi ko na ang pinambili ko ng art gadget na ito at higit pa.

Subalit, higit sa financial blessings na naibalik sa akin nito, ay iba pa rin talaga ang sayang naidudulot ng acknowledgment at papuring ipinararating ng kapwa mo artist, lalo na kung ang mga ito ay yaong mga taong hinahangaan mo pa. Ilan sa mga nagkaroon ako ng pagkakataong magalaw at makulayan ang mga obra ay ang mga beteranong sina Sonny Delos Santos at Val Pabulos na mga kasama rin namin sa grupong GuhitPinoy. Sa kanilang pahintulot ay binigyan ko ng kulay at buhay ang tig-isa nilang gawa na parehong may makaluma at classic na tema.

I tried hard to preserve the richness of strokes that these two veteran illustrators executed in their artworks. After all it is their illustration that is central to this piece. The colors I applied are just to set and add the mood. I am an advocate of the principle that coloring an art piece, especially comics illustration is to compliment and not to steal the limelight from it. I have seen several DC and Marvel comics that fell into this trap of digital coloring. Maybe they were so engrossed by the power of this technology that they forgot who's really behind the artwork. 

I hope I did justice to the awesome works of these two respected komiks illustrators.

"I went, shared, gave my all, then left with nothing but fun."

"THE SINNERS"

Line art-Sonny Delos Santos

Colors-Myke Turda. Photoshop CS2_Pen Tablet

"THE BARBARIAN"

Line Art-Val Pabulos

Colors-Myke Turda. Photoshop CS2_Pen Tablet

Great Art for a Great Rock n' Roll Band!

So much has been talked about the inclusion of our fellow-Filipino Arnel Pineda with the 2008 Journey line-up and with so much member changes particularly in the vocalist spot it seems like they are just a sports team going through an annual draft. This time however, it looks like they got the better end of the deal and got the number one pick after a long wait. Finally, they were able to form their Dream Team now with the arrival of our kababayan Arnel. And Journey had never been formidable than before, well at least during the post-Perry era.

I've been surfing the Net like man-possessed everyday just to read significant news about the band. From their concert in Chile, to their European gigs and now their 2008 US Concert Tour. Last i've heard they're having a concert in hometown Manila, February of next year, that would surely put my annual leave in chaos. Bon Jovi had a concert here in Abu Dhabi a few months back and I didn't watch it. I guess I found the reason why and another to visit home earlier than I already planned.

Meanwhile, I saw this nice piece of artwork from the Journey website (which I already added a link here in my blog). Produced by ZVue, a Journey preloaded MP3 player containing all the songs from their new Revelation album. I first saw the "scarab" art in the jacket and thought it was all the same as the old Journey covers but here when applied to a cute player was totally freakin' awesome.

So here it is, a nice piece of art for a great rockin' band!

Zakat Fund Storyboard

I got a chance to do a quick storyboard for Zakat Fund which are usually given to us and should be finished all in the same day. The shoot was done last month and will be aired in local TV this August. I got a nice compliment from the French Director who did the commercial and he made sure I heard it from one of our executives. Woooa, Thanks!

Done with Photoshop CS3 using Wacom Tablet.

GUHITPINOY UAE Na!!!

Ito ay isang mensahe sa aking mga kasama sa GuhitPinoy UAE, para sa isang matagumpay na aktibidad na ginanap noong nakaraang Biyernes sa Safa Park, Dubai.

"Sa isang meeting na ginanap noong Hunyo ng mga officers ng GuhitPinoy Dubai ay napagkasunduan na gawin nang GuhitPinoy UAE ang opisyal na pangalan ng samahang ito. Ito ay sa isang simpleng kadahilanang inaabangan po natin ang paglago ng grupo sa labas ng Dubai. Sa katunayan ay may mga miyembro na po tayong naka base sa Sharjah at isa nga po dito ay ang ating Treasurer na si Jeff Quinones. Samantala sa Abu Dhabi naman ay ang inyong lingkod na may halos dalawang taon na ring naninirahan dito.

GuhitPinoy UAE na!!! Opo at dito natin sisimulan sa pangalang ito ang pagtaguyod sa isa sa pinakamalaking Art Organization sa bansang ito ng UAE. Bagamat gaya ng prinsipyong nais ibahagi ng mga opisyales at core members ng grupong ito... hindi po sa bilang o dami ng miyembro ang basehan ng isang matagumpay at malaking organisasyon kung hindi... "sa mga proyekto at aktibidad na may kaugnayan sa sining at kung paano tayo magiging makabuluhang institusyon sa ating ginagalawang komunidad."

GuhitPinoy UAE na!!! Nais din po ng samahang ito na pag-isahin ang lahat ng mga artistang Pilipino dito sa bansang UAE, hindi lamang sa kanilang lokasyon... (Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Sharjah, Fujairah, Ajman, Ras Al Khaimah at Umm Al Qwain) kundi pati na rin ng ibat-ibang organisasyong Pilipino. Ang GuhitPinoy UAE ay kaisahan ng mga miyembro ng ibat-ibang samahan na may kanya-kanyang linya ng sining. May pintor, iskultor, photographer, designer, modelo, writer, ilustrador atbp.

GuhitPinoy UAE na!!! Ito po ay patuloy na paanyaya sa lahat ng may pusong Pilipino at may pag-ibig sa sining, nagmamahal sa ating kultura at handang ipagmalaki ang pagka-Pilipino. Bukas ito sa lahat ng nais magbahagi ng kanilang talino at galing sa larangan ng sining biswal.

GuhitPinoy UAE na!! Tuloy-tuloy na ang mga aktibidad ng ating grupo kung kaya't lagi po kayong tumutok sa site na ito para sa mga darating pang kaganapan. Ang 1st GPUAE Sketching and Photography Session na ginanap noong nakaraang Biyernes sa Safa Park, Dubai ay isa lamang po sa marami pang nakalinyang proyekto natin. Kung kaya't inaanyayahan namin kayo na patuloy na makihalubilo at makibahagi.

Sa pagkakataong ito ay nais ko pong magpasalamat sa mga dumalo sa nakaraang aktibidad ng GPUAE noong Biyernes. Salamat din sa mga nagbahagi ng pagsasaluhang pagkain. At higit sa lahat maraming salamat sa aming dalawang magagandang binibining modelo na si Abba at Mitch. Sana ay hindi kayo magsawa na ibahagi ang inyong mga angking galing."

Muli maraming salamat mga kaGuhit at mabuhay kayo!

The MightEs

I just finished a big project for a company in Dubai and here is the poster that I made for them. These characters are drawn separately and I just composed this final layout in Photoshop. The good thing about this is that, I had the freedom of using different softwares; Photoshop, Corel Painter and Illustrator, thus making it easy for me to add different textures and effects. The art director was also fond of exaggerated human muscles and he allowed me to explore undefined contours of human anatomy making this piece unnatural.

And in case you're wondering why their faces are all visible and different from the rather familiar heroes you know, these are the employees of the company with their superhero suits on.

A Night in Picasso's Life

The visit we had at the Picasso Exhibit in Emirates Palace was one for the ages. It was one of the things that I had done in my life that will forever be ingrained in my mind. What you expect in an event of international importance is what you will actually experience. 

T'was a perfect Tuesday night after work, a weekday, not too much people and traffic. We knew beforehand that cameras were not allowed in the show so I prepared myself and patched up my "photographic memory." The audio gadget however, that the exhibitors provided was truly amazing as it explains the story behind each of Picasso's artwork. From the paintings to the sculptures, from the drawings to his scribbles you'll be continually amazed of his genius. And as you learn the reason behind the creation you learn to admire the creator. 

However, I am still not a fan of his work but I respect the art that goes beyond it. I respect the man and recognize the struggles he had to go through. For me, his works are mere products of what was going on during certain periods of his time. It was the manifestation of the influences and the emotions that he experienced in life. And upon seeing the hundred and so pieces of work from this brilliant mind I can say that his art are not the paintings, not his ink drawings or bronze sculptures, not his doodles and sketches on paper, not his writings and poems. Picasso's art was actually his life. 

I didn't have any camera to save a remembrance and to gamble with my mobile phones' could cause me penalties that'll spoil that already memorable evening. However, might I forget the titles and names and the night we went to Emirates Palace, the images of Picasso's work will remain fresh in my memory till I have my grandchildren around to impart my story, of their "Lolo's night in Picasso's life."

Paalam Mang Joe...

Naaalala ko pa nang madalas akong buhat-buhatin ni Mang Joe (Joemari Mongcal) sa loob ng mga haligi ng Artist's room sa GASI noon. Hindi ko rin makalimutan ang paghatak niya sa akin noong maliit pa ako sa isang picture taking kasama ang grupo ng mga batikang nobelista, illustrator at letterer sa isang outing sa Montalban. Hanggang ngayon ay nakalarawan pa rin sa aking isip ang saya ng araw na iyon. Isa siya sa mga malapit na kaibigan ng father ko noon sa Komiks. Kung mayroon mang bukambibig ang Mother ko sa mga kaibigan ng pamilya ay isa si Mang Joe doon. 

Subalit ngayong araw na ito, sa aking pagbukas ng Message Board ng mga Komikero ay tumambad sa akin ang isang napakasamang balita mula kay Mang Dell Barras.

Pumanaw sa isang vehicular accident si Mang Joe sa may Baclaran. Dali-dali akong tumawag sa Father ko sa Pilipinas upang ibalita sa kanya ito. Lungkot at gulat ang naramdaman ko sa kanya. Marahil sa kadahilanang apat na araw rin mula ngayon ay dadalaw naman ang aming pamilya sa labi ng mother ko para sa ikalimang taong death anniversary niya. 

Muli kong nakita si Mang Joe after more than thirty years sa 2nd Komikon na ginanap sa UP Bahay ng Alumni. Hindi ko akalain na dito uli kami magtatagpo sa paaralang humubog sa pagiging ganap na artist ko. Subalit habang pinagmamasdan ko sila ng tatay kong nag-uusap ay hindi mawalay sa aking isip na ang dalawang taong ito talaga ang mga unang naghulma sa akin at nagbigay ng unang edukasyon sa larangan ng pagdidibuho. Sinubukan muli akong buhatin ni Mang Joe gaya ng ginagawa niya sa akin noong maliit pa ako, pero ang yakap at akbay lang niya ay sapat na sa amin upang ibalik ang alaala ng nakaraan.

Paalam Mang Joe... at kung sakaling magkita kayo ng Mother ko, pakikumusta ako sa kanya.

Kuha namin nina Mang Joe (nasa gitna) kasama ang tatay ko (nasa kaliwa) sa 2nd Komikon sa UP Bahay ng Alumni.

"Painting is all about sign"

"Painting is all about sign."

Does this quote sounds familiar? Well of course, it was uttered by nonetheless than the great Spanish painter and co-founder of the Cubist movement, Pablo Picasso.

I am not a Picasso fan. I am not into cubism or abstract art either. I am as I say, has always been a realist when it comes to art style. But I am an artist and artists should never stop learning. Artists must learn to respect and learn from each other. Learn from each others experiences, skills and knowledge.

I remember when I was browsing some books in our college's F.A. library and saw Picasso's pre cubism works..., leaning into the academic and classical realism, that was the time I realized why so many people admire this man, particularly the evolution of his style.  We also had this film showing of the movie Surviving Picasso, whom Anthony Hopkins starred in and you could see how all of us (students in a somewhat activist-filled institution) got affected by this man's principle and idealism. Set aside his political views and moral perspectives, I find him as a typical artist/painter like us who just needs to survive day to day struggles of life. Reason enough why I would go to his exhibit.

Wow, I am going to a Picasso Exhibit. Yes, a dream come true for anyone. Artists or not. Seldom do we get the opportunity to admire firsthand and up close the works of these famous individuals who graced the walls of the equally famous galleries of the world, and this is my chance. Picasso's works will be exhibited here at the Gallery One of the Emirates Palace in Abu Dhabi from 27th of May - 4th of September. Picasso Abu Dhabi - Masterpieces from the Musee National Picasso Paris, will feature 183 of his works including paintings, sculptures and works on paper some of which came directly from his studio.

Still, I am not a fan. But maybe after I see this genius' showcase of his masterpieces I could be one.

Here are some of the paintings that will be featured in the exhibit...

Self-Portrait. 1901, Oil on Canvas

Portrait of Olga in Armchair. 1918, Oil on Canvas

Three Figures Under A Tree. 1907, Oil on Canvas

The famous...

Portrait of Dora Maar. 1937, Oil on Canvas

Jacqueline with Crossed-hands. 1954, Oil on Canvas

All pictures are from the Picasso Exhibit Official site  http://www.artsabudhabi.com/picasso_default.htm

The Filipino Invasion

When I went for vacation last February in Manila, I was fortunate to snatch up the famous Volume 2 Issue 4 of Comic Book Artist (CBA) in Fullybooked, The Block branch in SM North Edsa. 

For those who don't know, it is the issue where it featured the CBA interview with the great Alex Nino and the prolific Tony DeZuniga. It is also where it showcased the first batch of Filipino illustrators that migrated to the States to find better luck in DC and Marvel comics which the editors interestingly titled "The Filipino Invasion."

Here are some inspiring pages from Alex Nino, and the intro page of the Filipino Invasion segment wherein they used Nestor Redondo's Darna splash page in color.

Sorry for the awkward images. These were just taken with an IMac built-in webcam.