NO.4 editor in chief / CREATIVE DIRECTOR SORAAN LATIF
Editors MUSIC - DANIEL LEE HARVEY FASHION - ANNELISE SEALY
WRITERS ROBERT JONES ANNELISE SEALY FLORENCE ARNOLD MARCUS KUZVINZWA DANIEL LEE HARVEY SARAH TALLEY ANONYMOUS
FRONT COVER ANGIE WANG
CONTACT facebook.com/7sobm 7sobm.tumblr.com 7shadesmagazine@gmail.com 7shadesmagazinemusic@gmail.com
SPECIAL THANKS
LILY MAY NNEKA IDIKA
For all the people who have supported
ALEX LEE
us from the moment we started this /
SORAAN LATIF
lola de la mata / Alex / Mike lawley /
DESIGNERS AARON NELSON AUSTE KUZMICKAITE KARISSA SPARKES SORAAN LATIF
Annelise for literally being a life saver / my design team you guys have been amazing since day one
contents ART & DESIGN 006
MELANIE AUTHIER INTERVIEW
022
MICHAEL C. HSIUNG INTERVIEW
076
ANGIE WANG INTERVIEW
130
NANNA SOFIE RESEKE
MUSIC 058
SHLOHMO INTERVIEW
062
FLYING LOTUS LIVE AT THE ROUNDHOUSE
084
MR SCRUFF INTERVIEW
PHOTOGRAPHY 040
PSYCHEDELIC 090 FASHION
LANE CODER HIDEAKI HAMADA INTERVIEW
fashion 106
KAROLIINA BÄRLUND X R/H
120
PSYCHEDELIC FASHION
124
PRE FALL 12' REVIEW
MELANIE AUTHIER INTERVIEWED BY SARAH TALLEY
R
ecently Seven Shades of black had the opportunity to interview the Canadian artist, Melanie Authier. With an upcoming exhibition in Toronto, she’s answering questions about her own creative process. Her large and overpowering pieces exhibit the beautiful, and still very potent, power of abstract art. Both evoking and parting from her modernist predecessors, her pieces command attention and respect. With intellectual clarity and depth, her responses add a thoughtful insight to the somewhat mysterious work she creates.
Is there an artistic movement you identify with?
the organic, the technological and the natural,
eventually resolves itself into a convincing, if
flatness and depth, the atmospheric and the
disorienting illusionism.
There is not one particular artistic movement that
geological. Each work is submitted to a free-form
I identify with? My work is obviously indebted to
improvisation that draws upon an expansive
What mood are you hoping to create with your
the histories of abstraction but I don’t favour one
archive of expressionist and hard edge histories.
work?
over another. My paintings bring together visual
These heterogeneous forces mingle and co-exist
contradictions into one imaginary space. Each
in a dynamic exchange that stretches the limits of
I think that the psychology / personality of
painting presents a brimming jostle of pictorial
their points of reference. The goal of the work is to
each painting varies. Mood is not always easily
oppositions. The work presents a perpetual play
conjoin a disparate, contrasted array of painterly
controlled but it comes about out of the contrasting
between chaos and control, the synthetic and
facture to create a work that is disjunctive, but
elements in my work. The process of a painting
occurs as series of contrasts. Each mark attempts
You have done relatively large-scaled pieces,
intimacy that smaller works offer. Ultimately, it is
to usurp the prominence of the previous idea.
what is the thought behind that?
important to me that I continually paint on a range
Colour selection and the speed of my brush
of sizes because it forces me to recalibrate my
strokes are determining factors when it comes
I enjoy how large-scale paintings have the
proportions and the scale of brush strokes, and in
to creating a mood. The focus is to create a
capacity to confront and simultaneously envelop
general helps to keeps me on my toes creatively.
painting out of a balancing act of contrasts. The
the viewer. I think that they allow for a heightened
result approaches a Baroque sensibility. The re-
awareness of the viewer’s scale in relation to
combination of varieties of pictorial facture reveal
the scale of forms in the work. This disparity
elements of the irrational and the evocation of
can create a sense of disorientation that I feel is
If it has a ‘role’ it functions as a counterpoint to
unfathomable space.
quite dynamic. That being said, I also enjoy the
everyday life. It is the sounding board upon
What do you think is the role of art in society?
which we can reflect and contemplate the vital
illusion of depth as expressed through an abstract
own my work will often express that they notice
importance of cultivating ideas. It has the
visual language. The goal for each painting
forces at work in the painting over a prolonged
capacity to present an inner world in contrast,
is to present the viewer with an improbable
period of time.
or in relation to, our realities. Art is a sanctuary
environment. I do this by bringing together
for the imagination.
visual contradictions. For example: the way in
How do your ideas come to you?
which colour, texture, line and shape compete for What are you hoping to say to those viewing
room within the canvas. Each work presents a
I tend to begin with an idea of the type of space
your work?
brimming jostle of oppositions that the viewer is
I am aiming to create. I never work from source
invited to bring into a certain order. That order is
imagery or preliminary sketches but I will often
potentially different for each person. People who
have a representational type of space in mind that
I am interested in the idea of infinite space and the
I then translate into abstraction. For example the
Seven come to mind, and in no particular order…
I am continually trying to re-contextualize my
type of space one might encounter in landscape:
Thomas Helbig, Valerie Blass, Tomma Abts, Martin
visual language from one painting to the next.
a cave, underwater terrain, cliff façade etc…
Golland, Katharina Grosse, Luanne Martineau
Yes, I do think the way that my work looks has
Every aspect of my work is filtered through the
David Altmejd.
evolved –especially over the past 7 years. I only
language of abstraction, while utilizing strategies of representation. This often means playing
ever work on one painting at a time and each Did you always know you wanted to be an artist?
with ideas of fore-ground, middle-ground and background within the work.
painting informs the next. I try to continually create challenges for myself within my studio
Yes.
practice and I think that this allows for new ideas to develop.
Who are five contemporary artists you enjoy?
Do you think your style is changing over time?
Do you think growing up in Montreal, or your
old enough to travel to the United States and
Do you have any exhibitions planned for
surroundings now, have influenced your work?
to Europe these works were my first access to
the future?
experiencing abstract painting in the flesh, rather Inevitably. –As a young art student I would often
than from a book or slide image.
go the Contemporary Art Museum of Montreal.
Yes. I will be in a big group painting show “60 Painters” that opens this Spring in Toronto, ON.
They have an excellent permanent collection of
Also the fact that Montreal is a multicultural city,
For more information about new projects and
Paintings by the Quebec art movement of the
and that it is both French and English, allows for
upcoming exhibitions please visit my website.
“Automatistes”. Hard edge abstraction is also
a certain dynamism and energy that I enjoyed
well represented at that Museum -particularly
while growing up there and that I continue to
by Guido Molinari and Yves Gaucher. Until I was
enjoy when I visit.
Melanie Authier's website
Michael C. Hsiung interviewed by Alex lee
M
eet Michael C. Hsiung, an LA-based artist who best characterizes himself by one large mustache, a thin yellow protective skin and a herbivorous diet. His art, made distinctive by his peculiar style, features whimsical caricatures, complimented by intricate line work and eclectic, fantasy-inspired choice of subjects. Michael has kindly agreed to answer a few questions for Seven Shades of Black, describing the origins of his artistic endeavors, the rise to relevancy within the art industry and his involvement with the Human Pyramids Collective. But most importantly, Michael opens up about his share of personal struggles that led him into finding his artistic muse. His story tells us it’s never too late to discover what you really want to do in life, and that the ability to do what you truly love for a living means so much more than anything else.
Hi Michael. Now, you are from LA, an area that has
up with my own storyline in my head which goes
quite an eclectic art scene. Tell us about yourself,
something like: all the mermaids are always
your art and what it is like being an artist in the
out, trying to meet sailors because mermen
LA art community
are highly undesirable due to their inclination towards drinking and general lack of interest
I'm a self taught illustrator/artist from Los
in the female mermaid species. Through my
Angeles, CA. Umm, let's see: I'm sort of a mix
drawings of mermen, I've gotten to explore and
between hyper/neurotic/mellow/obsessive/weird,
create more of their personality and mythos. It's
haha. My art is, I guess some what a mixture
pretty fun.
of the whimsical, fun, sad, and the awkward, usually focusing on character dynamics. My
How did your decision to go into art come about?
subject range from obese, hairy characters,
Has it always been a major part in your life?
misunderstood mermen, bears, centaurs, hawkbird men to fictitious warriors. I pretty much
While art has always been a major part of
work with pen, paper, and sometimes ink on
my life (my sister Pearl is a painter, and I was
paper. In terms of being involved with the LA art
always drawing ‘till about college), I never really
community, strangely I wouldn't consider myself
thought about pursuing art, mainly because it
directly involved but at the same time, I'd say
was something that Pearl was pursuing. So I
it's very accessible, open and exciting with tons
didn't really pursue that vocation, you know. I
of solid artists.
didn't really find myself wanting to go into art until years later, after I finished college in San Jose
What is the inspiration behind all the facial-hairy,
as an English major. I was sort of drifting around
mermen extravaganza?
career-wise after being laid off from working as a special ed aide for a high school. I was then
I think the inspiration behind the mermen was
hired at a background investigation company, I
and is a mixture of my interests with a splash of
know sort of weird right? Well, I was pretty much
the accidental. I think through sketching ideas
just working away thinking this was it, this was
and shapes I sort of zoned out and came up
my life. After two years there and getting out of
with a merman, which I felt was a great contrast
a bad relationship, my sister convinced me to
to all the mermaids out there. Eventually I came
move back to Los Angeles, so I stayed with her
and her boyfriend Scott in their tiny apartment
buddies' encouragement that I started drawing
in Koreatown. At this point I was sort of doodling
more and more. It wasn't until about 2007 that I
here and there, but didn't really start again ‘till
decided to go for it full-time.
my first 3 months in LA. I was hanging out with friends, including a buddy of mine whose art
You have a very distinctive style; tell us how you
career was just starting to take off. I'd go over
came to develop that certain style!
to his house to draw and then go out every night drinking with them. Drawing was sort of
To be totally honest, I'm not entirely sure. But I
born out of my hangovers in the mornings, but it
can guarantee that I always drew sort of bowling
was through Pearl's, her boyfriend's and my old
pin-thumb bodies haha.
Take us back to when you first started out as an artist. What were some of the worries and the difficulties that you faced as a new artist in the industry?
Oh there were tons of difficulties as well as worries when I first started out, mainly because I like, didn't know much about art techniques and stuff like that, and that I oftentimes felt very uncomfortable and unconfident about certain things like painting or even showing my work to amazing artists. It's great being your own boss in a way, but it's a difficult living: keeping yourself motivated, working, and, well, making sure your account doesn't dive in the red every month. I was lucky when I first started to get involved in various projects and etc., through folks finding me, but there are times when you have to figure out how to generate your own work and income.
That's not too easy, especially these days.
Tell us a bit on what your creative process.
unhappy with what I'm drawing. When I do end
trouble for you to come up with new ideas for
up drawing something I like, it comes to me more
your work?
subconsciously, like it'll be something I read or saw that might give me an idea, but I only see
Oh man, I feel very un-prolific, especially when
Well, I used to just sit down and draw my mind
the connection after I've finished. In that sense,
compared to some of these talented folks out
off, but nowadays I really have to get inspired
I guess you could say my creative process is
there who are constantly putting out great works
and/or work through ideas. But generally, after I
chaotic, accidental, and organic at times, but
and projects. I'd say the last two years have been
shower and all that stuff, I sit down, grab a piece
mostly just chaotic.
the hardest for me to come up with new ideas
of paper, and start sketching away. Sometimes I go through days or weeks where I am just
for art work. Before I was drawing, I wasn't too You seem to be a very prolific artist. Is it ever
aware of what art was out there, and now that
I’m more connected, you start over-analyzing
I mainly became involved with HP through a Flickr
and over-think ideas instead of just letting it out.
friendship I had with one of their artists, Pacolli.
Sometimes when I get frustrated with drawing,
One day, she sent me an e-mail about coming
My ultimate goal as an artist is really just being
I try and draw the most fucked up things I can
out to Los Angeles for an HP group show, so my
able to keep making art as a living. Maybe throw
think of. Doing so reminds me to have fun and to
girlfriend Rachel and I offered to put her up. It
in health insurance, travel, and some more meals
sort of get back to that attitude of drawing what
was through that show and etc. that I got to know
in there, and I'm set.
I want, not what I think I want.
some of the folks, and I was invited to join the collective. I was and am still really happy to be
How did you became involved with the Human Pyramids Artist Collective?
a part of it. They rule!
As an artist, what is your ultimate goal?
Michael C. Hsiung's Flickr
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Lane coder words by lily may
There’s something about landscape / environment
Coder is no newbie to the photography world,
photographs that never really sparked an interest
boasting an impressive list of magazines and
for me. Maybe it’s because I have seen one too
papers which he has had his work published
many ‘landscape’ albums on Facebook, with
in; Vogue, Nylon, V and The New York Times to
a few hundred of your typically bland shots
mention a few. This is of course appropriately
of a beach and occasionally the classic; long
accompanied by an equally as impressive list
exposure waterfall. But I have to admit; coming
of exhibitions held and awards received. Inspired
across the very talented Lane Coder’s work was
at the age of 19 by a friend, Coder discovered a
a breath of fresh air for me!
passion for photography and didn’t look back. His passion shines through in his photographs.
Coder’s landscape / environment photography
of muted colours gives Coders’ photographs an
skills are beautifully displayed and perfectly
almost vintage feeling to them, invoking emotions
executed in his series ‘Los Angeles 2003’.
of nostalgia in the viewer. Each image feels
Flawlessly composed, these images are extremely
relatable because it is suburban, each location
strong and bold with clever use of lines and light.
seems so distant but still some place you feel you have been before. I think this creates a sort
The series’ images seem almost surreal without
of magic in each photo; the viewer already has
the presence of any human subjects in what would
his or her own story behind each image. This is
be their normal environments. Strangely enough
what I believe a great photo should do, create
these images still feel close to home. The use
a connection between both photographer and viewer and this is exactly what Lane Coder has achieved with ‘Los Angeles 2003’. I take my hat off to you sir.
Lane Coder's website
Shlohmo interviewed by Daniel Lee Harvey
S
hlohmo is one of the most innovative and youngest producers to emerge from the L.A beatscene. His sound envisions a dreamscape for us listeners to slip into when the rest of reality gets overwhelming. His album Bad Vibes which was released in August 2011 has impressed many reviewers and for me it’s a breath of fresh air. Every track is a component of hip hop abstraction, the way he blends the moans of the guitar with the vocals and the ambiance of nature is like the very creation of human DNA. It’s unique; there is no other sound that comes close to it. When we hear a track with those elements, we instantly know it one of Shlohmo’s and that in itself is something very difficult to do when there is such a wave of beat makers all striving do the same thing. I got the chance to speak to him to find out more...
First of all, where are you currently located and
Who would you consider to be your influences
what have you been up to?
in music?
only featured on the podcast you did for XLR8R.
Why have you been teasing us with those tracks I just moved to New York at the end of 2011 after
Bob Dylan, Three 6 Mafia, M83, D'Angelo, Tom
for such a long time? Do you have any intentions
spending 3 years in San Francisco and Oakland.
Waits, Drake, Burial, Sly, Four Tet, GG Allin.
on releasing them fully?
So, when did your taste for producing actually
Your album ‘Bad Vibes’ is one of my favourite
Ha I don't know. I had some plans for them at
start?
music releases of 2011, what was your overall
the time, but they all fell apart somehow and
concept when putting it together?
now those tracks feel too old. I think they had
Well, I played guitar and bass in bands when
their place back then, but it would feel weird to
I was real young, but I kinda fell off that by the
Thank you! The overall concept was kind of a
put them out now.
time I was in middle school. Something made
lack of one. The only real idea I had for it was
me want to start making rap beats when I was
that I wanted to make it really personal; I wanted
There are a lot of production gadgets available
like 14, so I'd take samples into GarageBand
to use my voice and play all the parts. Guitar;
now that have automated tools to make it that little
and make really shitty beats. I did that for a few
bass; keys; record all the sounds and what not. I
bit easier for an individual to create music. I read
years and then got into making house for a few
happened to be really bummed out at the time so
somewhere you prefer to use basic equipment;
more years. I think by the time I was 17 or 18
I just let the music reflect that. After I got into that
do you feel that you have more creative freedom
I had more of an idea of how to use programs
mode of recording, the rest just kind of came out.
when sticking to the analogue?
and what I actually wanted to produce. But it's
I know you released ‘Glue Stick’ as part of a
still changing all the time.
compilation, but ‘Tall Grass’ and ‘VOR/off’ were
I just feel like creativity comes from you, and not
I actually feel really unproductive. If I could bring
their heads and listen, then that's where I'm at.
the machine you’re using.
myself to spend the amount of time necessary
It's weird though because my music is really
for myself to feel productive, there would be like
all over the place, so I feel like I can't always
In the space of three years you have managed
five times the amount of material. But I'm far too
please everyone. There's always somebody
to release so much material: several EPs and a
lazy for that shit.
who would rather hear the mellow stuff when I'm playin’ dance-y shit, and there's always cats
full length LP; a beat tape with a free selection of unreleased treasures; a fair amount of remixes
What is your approach when playing live?
who wanna dance when I'm playin’ ‘Bad Vibes’.
and a new EP is coming up again. Where do you
I just like to feel connected to the crowd. If they
I haven't quite found a balance yet.
find the time?
want to dance and jump around and shit, then that's what I wanna do too. If they wanna hang
I must congratulate you man for making ‘ Pretty
Boy Swag’ into a blissful anthem. I didn’t know such
Quite recently, you did a remix of the DJ Khaled
Honestly just Drake. But I've also been listening
a thing could be achieved. How do you approach
track ‘I’m the One’, featuring Rick Ross, Lil Wayne
to a lot of my friends' music. D33J, Groundislava,
tracks like this and others you have remixed?
& Drake. Is this leading onto a project you have
Evenings, Salva, and Tomas Barfod. Then I've
in mind?
also been revisiting all the old Three 6 Mafia and
It's never a plan, it's just kinda like "I like this.
hypnotized minds CD's that I found in my old
What if it sounded like this..."
I just wanna produce for these cats.
bedroom; Club Memphis + Underground vol. 1.
You also released an EP in late December last
In today’s circle, there are a lot of beat makers
Last of all, if you were to be sent to an alien
year, ‘Shlo-Fi’, under record label Error Broadcast.
starting up early. Do you have any words of advice
civilisation in space to teach them about the
It was originally one of your earlier digital EPs
to give them?
music that planet Earth can offer, and you were
from 2009, so what made you want to release a physical copy of it?
only allowed to take 3 things with you (records or Just do you. Doesn't matter what program you
musical figures), who would you select and why?
use or any of that bullshit, as long as you have Error Broadcast approached me and asked if
the drive to do it, you'll keep doing it. Do it if it
Just to fuck their heads up I'd bring Crunchy
I wanted to put it out on vinyl. Even though it's
makes you happy.
Black, Gary Wilson, and Kool Keith. Then if they
over two years old and some of the first music I
were thinking about destroying Earth, they might
ever made as "Shlohmo", I still felt connected with
What music are you listening to at the moment
the songs and thought it was worthy of getting’ it
and who would you recommend our readers to
on wax. I also wanted to see my photos printed
check out?
big on the cover.
not. Or they might do it faster, I don’t know.
Shlohmo's facebook
Flying lotus live at the roundhouse words by Marcus Kuzvinzwa and Soraan Latif Photography by Tim Kantoch
B
ack In October the staff here at Seven Shades of Black where lucky enough to receive two tickets to see the one and only, Flying Lotus at the Roundhouse in London. The show was one of only a handful that took place that year, in London, Paris & Los Angeles. In collaboration with the visual label ‘ANTIVJ’ who provided a stunning backdrop to the show, Kutmah and Martyn were supporting acts on the night.
It being our first time at Camden’s prestigious arts
assistant the exact change) Inside the room.
and music venue, The Roundhouse and seeing
Flying Lotus is the founder of the L.A based record label 'Brainfeeder' which formed back 2008.
Flying Lotus (aka Fly Lo) real name Steve Ellison
Flying Lotus a L.A based experimental hip hop
The label promotes the freedom of alternative
live, our expectations where on point. The venue
producer, who prominence is highly recognized.
electronic artists to showcase their art; however
itself is spacious and extravagantly designed in
His most talked about 'Cosmogramma' is a
they want with no constraints. It holds some of
a sleek and fashionable manner. A section was
perfect example into the marvel that is that 'Fly
the most prestigious artists in the beat scene.
reserved for Fly Lo merchandise including shirts
Lo' sound. The jazz based album touches on
Including Samiyam, Tokimonsta ( interviewed
& stickers; the iconic Brainfeeder shirt was also
multiple levels of musical technicality and finesse.
in issue three ), Mono/Poly and many others.
available on the night. ‘Flying Lotus' cufflinks
'Do The Astral Plane' being a crowd favourite
were also available (if you gave the kind sales
on the night.
To start of the show the Dj/producer Kutmah
said 'it's make me feel like I'm drunk but I'm not.
When it came to Flying Lotus’ set we were
took the stage. Playing some of the hardest
Kinda of like I'm on a cloud but my feet are deep
wondering where he was going to grace the
bangers and slow jams I've ever heard and some
in the soil & one with the earth' personally we
stage. As the visuals started the mad scientist
staff favorites. Samiyam's 'Kitties' and a couple
couldn't think of a more excellent interpretation.
emerged from den and graced us with the first
of Onra's to name a few. He also played a lot of
The song features Dirg Gerner who does the
song of the night Flying Lotus, SpaceApe, &
unreleased material that we hadn't heard before.
vocals of the song and as a listener you can feel
Kode 9 – Kyron. Being part of the ear splitting
Some of which was by the artist Flako. 'Broken
the chemistry to the song. As per every concert
screams of joy for his arrival this pretty much
Toy' and 'Lonely Town' from Flako's latest album
there was the one fan that was a bit too inebriated
summed up the atmosphere of the show.
_ were played. 'Lonely Town' was highly loved by
and took the stage for him and danced to his
the crowd, a fellow witness of the audible love
hearts content.
Part one written by Marcus Kuzvinzwa.
Before Flying Lotus took to the stage fellow Dj
sets could be labeled as “techno” or “house”
I must admit I was slightly surprised at how well
& producer and label artist Martyn’s took his
. He managed to weave the different genres
his tracks were being received. This wasn’t the
place upon the podium and gave us a taste of
together by the use of the glitchy sound that is
usual type of crowd that I had been used to
what he had to offer. His set was fragmented
recognisable to the Brainfeeder label. Earlier
when I have been at an event playing techno or
between styles and genres, crossing and
in the month Martyn released his latest album
deep house. Even when he dropped in a more
blending between abstracted sluggish white
Ghost People on Brainfeeder label. It was no
aggressive sounding dubstep track it wasn’t
noise, Chicago house and the rhythmic pounding
surprise that he played a couple of the thumping
turning people away from the dance floors, this
of Detroit influenced techno. It was all done within
techno track on the night from the album such
is full credit to the way Martyn mixed. After he
the context of the night; it wasn’t dis-coordinated
as,"Horror Vacui" and my personal favourite from
was finished the main man took to the stage
or cornered into sections where each part of his
his album,"Popgun".
himself along with a visual feast.
The visuals that came on during Flying Lotus’
events. They all seem to lack the basic principles
the start of the set, abstract visual lines carving
set were nothing short of specular. While Kutmah
of combing music and visual arts together. This
into the stage or the fantastically sophisticated
and Martyn had only a few spotlights shone on
is something that was most certainly addressed
patterns and shapes gliding across the scene,
them during their respective sets, which was not
by AntiVJ, a European based group who have
it was a joy to witness.
a bad thing by any means, the visual artists at
an already impressive cv showing off their visual
AntiVJ truly put on a show that pleased the eye
talents at Nuits Sonores and Mapping Festival
As amazing as the visuals are nothing was going
when Flying Lotus came on the stage.
among numerous other projects. As Flying Lotus
to detract too much attention from Flying Lotus.
mixed and cut into through his set the visuals
He was hiding behind the triangular podium
As we have all probably witnessed the visual side
would change in sync with the blissful tracks he
that was put in place especially for him waiting
of live events seem to be all but ignored during
played. Whether it was the cosmos at easing in at
to pounce. Grinning throughout the duration of
his performance ehe first track he played was
of “Kill your co-worker”, “Zodic Shit” all featured
favourite of the evening was when he laid down
his rework of Lil Wayne’s “I feel like dying”, It
and of course “Astral plane” got a suitably huge
his remix of Mr Oizo’s “Stunt” which was one
didn’t take much longer after that for the crowd
reaction from the already buzzing crowd.
of the few tracks I knew the second it hit the
to start moving frantically. He showed off his
speakers. The only downside to the evening
typically deep catalogue of record from Tyler the
Mixing in with all the usual tracks you expect to
was that his set was cut short for some reason,
Creator’s “Yonkers”, The Rolling Stones’ “Paint it
be featured in his set including of course other
due to a technical hitch. He more than made up
black” towards the end of the show and even a
label mates like Tokimonsta was the intricate
for this though spending a good half hour at the
dubstep remix of Waka Flocka Flame's "Hard in
and sophisticated jazz influenced sounds that
very least speaking to the fans, taking pictures
Da Paint”. Of course the majority of his set was
would slow down the pace of the evening before
and promising to listen to music that was being
constructed out of tracks that he crafted, the likes
the pace would pick up again. My personal
handed his way.
Give your ears a break with Music of today with our Daily classics post on Facebook. Just click anwhere on the page and be inspired by the past.
ANGIE WANG INTERVIEWED BY SARAH TALLEY
A
ngie Wang, an illustrator out of Portland, agreed to answer some questions about her pieces. A unique force within the world of illustration, her work unties popular cultures and styles with a sense of fantasy and mythology. Her use of strong colors and fluid lines create a movement that is immediately striking. With an honest critique of the art world at large and a humble explanation of her own illustrations, Angie’s words and thoughts seem to enhance the already moving visual scenes she creates.
Your illustrations appear to have a narrative
the Iliad describing Achilles' shield where the
a lot of cultural currency, I like to do something
aspect, what do they mean to you?
art has a narrative nature, like writing, and that
about it. Which, for me, usually means drawing it.
resonated with me--it reminded me of the fairy My Ancient Greek professor once told me that
tale illustrations I loved as a kid.
How does your use of color play into your work?
Does pop culture influence your illustrations?
That was a practical necessity at first. When
writing is temporal and art is spatial. So, he said, the upside of writing is narrative and the downside is that it isn't as present and immediate
I worked with black and white, I balanced
as art is. On the other hand, the upside of art
I really like the idea of a community drawn
compositions using the visual weights of patterns
is its immediacy and the downside is its static
together by shared enthusiasm. I'm a fangirl at
and textures, but when I moved into color (never
nature. But he went on to talk about a part in
heart, so when I admire something a lot and it has
having learned color theory) I just couldn't make
"normal" palettes work. I wasn't able to balance
Micah Lidberg, Shimura Takako, Susumu
but I draw more from manga, editorial illustration,
muted colors or pastels against the black lines, so
Katsumata, Jillian Tamaki, Uno Moralez, Hellen
fairy tale illustration, and video games than
everything I'd ever figured out about composition
Jo, Leonetto Capiello, and Eyvind Earle, I have
anything else.
had been thrown off--until I finally realized that
in the past been influenced by Arthur Rackham
the only way I could get my sense of composition
and Henry J. Ford.
What is your process like when beginning a piece?
could hold their own. Basically, the colors I use
Is there a particular art movement you identify
I usually start off with an idea like "bone flower" or
are the only way the picture looks right to my eyes.
with?
"polka-dotted wolf pelt" or "meteor" and work from
back was by using highly saturated colors that
there, thinking, "What is the heart of this idea?" Right now I'm influenced by Utagawa Kuniyoshi,
Not really. Maybe the indie comics community,
The famous impressionist Paul Gauguin once
Has the psychedelic art scene influenced you
said that “all art is either plagiarism or revolution�,
at while you were moulding your creative style?
do you agree with this assessment? Actually, not at all. A lot of the psychedelic It's not how I think about art. I mean, when it
elements in my art come from editorial illustration--
comes to reading, I'm interested in intertextuality
when an editorial illustration is taken out of
and how stories build off each other: fairy tale
its context, it suggests a completely bizarre
remixes, fanfiction, borrowing, subverting.
narrative. Why is this man putting his hand in a
Similarly, in art, I'm interested in playing with
tree made of smoke? Why does this person have
the language of connotations and rich cultural
flowers coming out of every orifice? You know,
symbols--unicorns, Greek goddesses, fursuits,
that sort of thing.
sun, wolves, baseball, etc--and connotationrich compositions. So I feel like "plagiarism or
What's the story behind the girls that keep
revolution" is a catchy but simplistic idea, lacking
appearing in your work?
in nuance. Come to think of it, the most common expression What are you hoping to express or convey with
on their faces is a sort of confused sadness.
your illustrations?
There are things they regret leaving behind, and they're scared of the future.
I'm interested in conveying oppressive environments, wistful or ambivalent feelings,
As an artist do you have any areas in your work
and bizarre happenings. The idea that resonates
that you would like to explore or develop in the
the most for me is that this is the weird, cruel,
future?
beautiful, unfair world you live in, and you have to live in it.
I'm interested in tackling different forms of perspective next. Oblique projection, isometric,
How has your experience been moving within
etc.
the art world? Do you have any shows coming up in the future? In the illustration world, it's been absolutely wonderful. I've gotten to meet a lot of artists I
I'm in a group show at Wieden + Kennedy in
admire greatly, and I'm making a living doing
February, but I'm not much of a show person, to
what I love.
be honest. I like inexpensive open-edition prints, mass-market books, people's enthusiasm driving
You have three words to choose to describe
sales; not so much originals, limited editions,
your artwork, what would those words be?
scarcity driving sales, which I sort of feel like the gallery thing is all about.
Intimate, claustrophobic, and inexplicable. Angie Wang's website
mr scruff interviewed by Robert Jones
ongevity in British music has become a seldom achievement as the industry crossed into the digital world a decade or so ago. The mainstream now returning to a time akin to the teen pop explosion of the sixties, the nation's recent music history has centred upon label made groups or imported cross atlantic chart goliaths. Mr.Scruff has not only proceeded to go against the grain of this trend for short lived careers, but also carved a foothold in the consciousness of the general public in a fashion most subtle. Exceeding twenty years worth of material, Mr.Scruff has acquired a cult following,of which religiously attend his live sets that stretch onwards into the night for up to six hours. His work can be appreciated in the everyday, be it the ever familiar likes of "Get A Move On" or the iconic Mr.Scruff imagery which adorns tea brewing paraphernalia and more.
The world of Mr Scruff has left its mark on many
My DJ sets always evolve. Each gig is different
Inspiration seems infinite for you; where does this
people without them necessarily knowing. Would
as I prefer to be inspired by the atmosphere in
motivation to keep creating stem from?
you prefer more immediate recognition rather
the venue, rather than plan the music in advance.
than a gentle nudge and someone's face lighting
The only constant is the presentation; all night
Musically, there is so much new and old music to
up when they recognise your work?
DJ sets, lights down low, my visuals, and a nice
inspire me. I get excited by the connections that are
cup of tea.
made between different musical styles whilst DJ-
A gentle nudge is fine. My approach to publicity
ing, and apply that same freewheeling approach
and awareness is to make my work easily
What's the latest creation to be allowed out of
to my studio work. As well as music; life, humour,
available to people online, if they want to hear
the Mr Scruff studio for our ears?
family and friends are a constant inspiration.
good art it will spread naturally by word of mouth,
The latest single is 'Feel It!'; a kind of bottom
Do you see any new artists that remind you of
which in the long term creates very loyal and
heavy, tough, moody and melancholy slow house
how Mr Scruff started out many moons ago?
strong support.
thing. Plus, I have recently done a soul/funk/jazz/
or find out about it. If you work hard and create
How is the live set developing from previous tours?
disco/house DJ mix for Southport Weekender,
A few younger artists have a similar broad
alongside DJ Spinna.
approach to DJ-ing and production‌Dusty from
Munich is one and Floating Points is fantastic,
between song craft and studio craft for you, or
And finally; should 2012 happen to be the end
although his music is a lot better than mine was
are they two sides of the same coin?
of civilisation, what is the plan for Mr Scruff and
at his age!
one last hurrah? For me they are very similar. The writing and
Which album or track should we listen to for an
production aspects of making music go hand in
insight into your world?
hand for me, and I work on both at the same time.
A massive party!
Mr Scruffs Facebook Maybe one of my SoundCloud DJ sets would be
HMV are soon to revive their stock of vinyl; where
better, long 5-6 hour sessions that pull you in..
is your favourite place to trawl through records and find an undiscovered gem?
Making music, making a brew, or drawing? Piccadilly Records in Manchester, Honest Jon's in Music. By a very long way.
London, and Underground Solush'n in Glasgow for new music. Kingbee Records in Manchester
Is there an obvious difference of importance
and Crocodisc in Paris for second-hand records.
Hideaki Hamada interviewed by anonymous
Let’s start with the basic question; at what age
not is inconvenient and troublesome. But this
did your interest in photography begin?
waiting in time is necessary. That is to say, it is a stance we take toward photography.
I started to shoot when I was in high school. Shortly after my eldest son was born (2005),
What kind of challenges do you face as a film
I became more aware of shooting. Thereafter,
photographer in the digital age?
I got a medium form of a camera, Pentax67. It changed my view of the photography.
It's cost and time, but I think both of those things are necessary for film photography.
After looking through your Flickr account and your website I can infer that you have a preference for
In the descriptions of many of your photographs
film photography. Is there any particular reason
you credit Kodak film. It seems as though Kodak
why this is?
is moving to file for Chapter 11 bankruptcy at the end of the month. What sort of impact will the end
Because for me I think it's important to shoot
of Kodak have on your personal photography?
by film. In film photography, you will certainly experience a feeling of excitement while you
To be sure, I like Kodak, especially Portra's colors
wait for your photos to develop. Perhaps you fear
and tones. However, I not only use Kodak, I often
that you may not have taken the photo skillfully.
use FUJIFILM. So Kodak's end will be not really
Therefore, waiting to know if you succeeded or
a bad thing. Rather, I worry about film's end.
Do you think that film photography will ever be completely replaced by digital photography?
Maybe 100 years later. But now, don't you think that eventually people look for colors and tones like films in digital photographs.
What is your opinion on digital retouching?
You know, it's a merit of digital photography. That's just the way of it.
The two boys you feature in your photographs, have they always been willing models?
They sometimes hate to be models. They will hate it more in the future. Therefore now is the precious moment that cannot be replaced by anything.
Are the boys your children? How old are they?
have mentor/teacher?
Yes, they are my sons. My eldest son is Haru, 6
Perfectly self-taught, but I always got many
years old, Mina is 4 years old.
inspirations from people who like photographs around the world. There are so many things that
In some of the photographs the boys themselves
I learn from them.
are taking pictures. Do you teach them how to take photos, or are they just playing?
You have a very identifiable style to your photos, how did it develop into what it is today?
I often tell them how to use their cameras. They always enjoy shooting. Amazingly they carefully
I have seen so many photographs. And finally
think about composition! Here is Haru's Flickr.
I found my own style, but it keeps changing even now.
Are you a photographer for fun and personal projects, or is this your profession?
Do you have a favorite lens?
It's my personal project. But sometimes I take
I like SMC Takumar 6x7 105mm F2.4. It's the
pictures for my jobs.
most-used lens in my works. It has great tone and bokeh.
Are you a self-taught photographer, or did you
Hideaki Hamada's Flickr
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Karoliina B채rlund x R/H A Finnish tour de force for the photographer and design duo written by Annelise Sealy
Karoliina Bärlund is a Finnish photographer
Inspired by the nature of the Nordic region and
hailing from Helsinki. Having completed both
a hint of what refer to as ‘black magic’, their
a BA in Photography at the University for the
designs comprise of minimal silhouettes coupled
Creative Arts and an MA in Fashion Photography
with a muted palette and intricate prints. The
at the prestigious London College of Fashion,
use of unusual fine materials such as bamboo
she continues to pursue her dreams and aims
jersey and ecological reindeer leather add to the
to better herself ‘day by day’. Inspiration comes
Finnish charm.
to her from the world around her; people; nature; art; and music. See her next exhibition, shot in
Karoliina Barlund's website
Iceland, at Blackall Studios in London (opening
R/H's website
10th February).
Only a few seasons old, R/H is the brainchild of Hanna Riiheläinen (R) and Emilia Hernesniemi (H). Forming a friendship whilst studying at the University of Art & Design in Helsinki, they each went on separate career paths before reuniting to form a design duo.
PSYCHEDELIC FASHION Written by Nneka Idika
T
he psychedelic movement is sure to conjure up
The A/W ‘11 season saw the quiet integration
some pretty iconic imagery. Namely, Woodstock,
of psychedelic inspired furs on the runway
Pink Floyd, and the ever fashionable tie-dye
ranging from Missoni to Sonia Rykiel’s striking
tee. These days, however, designers are doing
textures and colours. The natural progression
more with the major cultural influence than just
of this can now be seen for the S/S ‘12 ranges.
making tee shirts. This year, much more than
Influenced by a long running trend in art and
in recent years, the influence of pop art and
music, designers like Manish Aurora and Jeremy
psychedelic culture can be seen, not only on
Scott are using prints and colours that evoke the
catwalks across the world, but across all mediums
same whimsy seen throughout the 1960s and
of art and design.
70s. From metallic to patterns that have more than just a splash of colour, this trend can be seen as the realization of a cultural phenomenon that never quite disappeared.
The main objective in the use of pop art inspired
pieces seems to be the juxtaposition of classic
and transform it into something that is thought
trends like the A-line skirt and the collared shirt
provoking and interesting. This can range from
with eye-catching patterns and fabric. This
the mild and understated to the outlandish and
The use of pop art and psychedelic inspired
melding of styles is not meant to distract the eye
iridescent artistry reminiscent of Warhol’s Factory.
design isn’t necessarily something that has stuck
but to subtly enhance what we see as a classic.
Meadham Kirchhoff’s Spring 2012 ready to wear
around exclusively because of its use in art and
This inoffensive obtrusion into our psyche allows
collection is a prime example of the striking and
exposure in popular culture. Psychedelic culture
us to see beyond the aesthetic value of a classic
animated fixtures that bring to mind an almost
is a child of an absurdist version of reality and
and embrace that it can be redone with more imagination than initially thought.
daring but wonderfully executed.
counterculture that has manifested itself in high Alice in Wonderland delicacy and innocence,
fashion. The decision not to reign in fashion
coupled with an underlying maturity. No two
as a never-ending cycle of ‘been there done
The manifestations of the trend range from Jean
looks are alike as the pop aspect takes hold
that’ moments is one of the reasons that pop
Charles de Castelbajac’s use of cartoonish prints,
and inspires these looks. From multi-coloured
art inspired looks may remain on the scene for
to Henry Holland’s gingham and Dalmatian print
and multi-layered skirts to bejewelled hot pants
seasons to come.
inspired creations. Like the counterculture of the
paired with bright tights, Kirchhoff brings to mind
1960s, these designs seek to take the ordinary
a Candyland game board that is aesthetically
PRE FALL '12 REVIEW
Written by Florence Arnold
P
‘Pre-Fall’ is like the little brother to the main runway
well maybe a little bit, this December ‘Pre-Fall’
shows that everyone knows and loves: ‘Spring/
2012 gave us some mouth-watering pieces good
Summer’ and ‘Autumn/Winter’. Much like its little
enough to rival the big dogs…
sister ‘Resort’, ‘Pre-Fall’ has been quietly growing over the past couple of years into a fully-fledged
Key trends to look out for this include coats (lots
member of the fashion show family.
of them), preferably in wool, felt or, for the more daring, neoprene. Sporty layering was also a
No longer dismissed as just a made-up time of
strong theme, a styling tool somewhat necessary
the year concocted to ensure the fashion world
at this time of year, with toggles, zips and visible
keeps on coming up with yet more goods - ok
seams all making an appearance.
Shapes, structures and materials for a more lady-
up in many collections again.
like silhouette included jersey draping, pleating,
collection that was feminine but thankfully not overly girly. Memorable pieces included a rather
cinched in waists, lace, leather and A-line skirts.
Highlights came from Proenza Schouler, Philip Lim
fabulous textured, collarless Mongolian wool coat
Colour palettes consisted predominantly of
3.1, Theyskens’ Theory, Helmut Lang, Thakoon,
with oversized fuzzy pockets and a two-tone
greys, pewters, charcoals and marls. These
Burberry Prorsum and Calvin Klein Collection.
marl and black wool blazer nipped in neatly at
more subdued tones were mixed in with orange
They delivered us a medley of clothes that will
the waist.
tones in fizzy sorbets and salmons, veering
sit nicely in that tricky sartorial time between the
to rusts and brick. Pops of neon yellow were
end of summer and early autumn.
interspersed with greens in bottle or jade. Sand, taupe and the firm favourite - camel, also cropped
The continuation of the waist as a focal point was evident in many designers’ offerings this season,
Thakoon came up with a typically well-tailored
resulting in some sophisticated and flattering
tailored pieces. Burberry Prorsum showed tweed
through to a selection of laser cut dresses perfect
wearable pieces here, most notably the thick
30s pencil skirts and double breasted coats,
for an autumnal evening cocktail.
ribbed polo necks and slim peg-leg trousers in
which were a true British Heritage triumph, along
bright cobalt blue, combined with quilted jackets
with some classic chic from across the pond via
Moving on to some sporty separates, Proenza
and matching bags - sure to get the fashionistas
Calvin Klein Collection.
Schouler triumphed with their alpine-inspired
squealing with delight.
outerwear, including the aforementioned Francisco Costa revealed a beautiful selection
neoprene jackets with matching skirts. Toggles
And if alpine’s your bag take a trip to Narcisco
of structured and subtle garments including a
abound, with even the dresses for after hours
Rodriguez for some ski-wear inspired roll-necks
pleated, heather A-line dress-coat with cinched
après-hike receiving the rain-mac feel. Don’t
and slim leather pants, matched with oversized
waists and plenty of scope for workwear/daywear
let this put you off though, as there were many
removable fur sleeves that would make a real
talking point on the mountainside.
with elegant noir blazers, or the sweeping high-
brush with colour provided a backdrop to their
necked dresses. Covetable and cool – always
statement leather jackets, in moss, emerald and
a winning combination.
pale mint green.
Theory. Olivier Theyskens’ fans will be pleased
And last but certainly not least, a worthy mention
So yes, we may never know what Pre-Fall really
to note that the collection was just as slick as
for Helmut Lang. Lang can always be relied
means, but in the meantime we can borrow their
his previous offerings; sporty but with a touch of
upon to provide some chic and understated
clothes like an annoying little sister.
gothic glamour. It felt like a collection you could
pieces that will have you wishing for an apartment
slip on for a stroll in the autumn evening sunshine.
in Brooklyn and an unlimited clothing budget.
Take for example the leather backpacks teamed
Clever jersey draping and a rather unexpected
Continuing down the more casual route were newcomers to the Pre-Fall market; Theyskens’
Nanna Sofie Reseke
This was taken during chr years ago, when I was sta grandparents’ old house, bed I slept in. It was the la family and I spend our ch together in that house.
ristmas two aying at my this was the ast time my hristmas
I finished it in one night because I could not s
sleep.
I never really figured that camera out. So many pictures always ended up looking like this.
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