Bobby Creger

Friday 3 May 2013

Pick Me Up Graphic Arts Festival

I have recently attended the Pick Me Up Graphic Arts Festival at Somerset House. As this was the first time I had ever gone, I didn’t quite know what to expect, assuming I’d find a room of art prints mounted on the walls. I was pleasantly surprised to discover that there was so much more.

As I approached Somerset House, I could see a hoard of creatives queued up all the way down the side of the building. Loud music from inside could be heard, flooding out the front entrance.

Following the sound, I made my way in. As soon as you step inside, the display begins. Amazing pieces of artwork greeted me; One of my favourites being by illustrator and good friend, Robert Sae-Heng, whose playful, colourful characters dance around their canvas.

In addition to mounted prints, there was a very colourfully-entertaining live band playing(I believe their name was 'Heavy Pencil' and they're also some big time illustrators), workshops, sculptures, a bustling bar and plenty of goodies to purchase and take home.

Some other artists whose work I really loved were Katie Scott(Snake, below left) and You Byun(Jellyfish, Below right).

I left with a new appreciation for the various forms of graphic art and also as a fan of some new artists whose work I discovered that night. This event highly exceeded my expectations and I look forward to returning next year!

[B]

Friday 22 March 2013

ART FOCUS : Zarina Liew

Zarina by Canon @ London Fashion Weekend

I think there are two reasons why I love Zarina Liew's artwork. I believe it combines two very beautiful types of art; Manga and Fashion Illustration, both of which are very dear to me.

There's an innocent, playful side to Liew's pieces, with the characters, their expressions and poses, which look as if they were born from Liew's own fantastical, anime world. At the same time, there's a very feminine, elegantly-fashionable, mature side, with delicate blowings of watercolours and Parisien-style pencilling, leaving just the right amount of detail in every piece.

Zarina was kind enough to answer a few questions for me.

B: What is your inspiration for your work?

Z: "Anything and everything really – mainly fashion though because I follow the main trends/catwalk shows and fashion blogs too. But I could be inspired to paint a beautiful outfit that I need to “draw out of my system” or by an event or moment that I want to illustrate. I believe it’s healthy to seek out inspiration, in order to bring out inspiration in your own work!"

B: When and where did you start making art?

Z: "I’ve been drawing ever since I can remember, but I never went through the “art route” at all, in fact, I studied Psychology at university! I only started drawing seriously about 5 years ago. It’s a continual development; I think you always have to keep practicing, trying out new things..."

B: What is your favourite aspect about making your art?

Z: "The freedom to draw whatever I want! Ha! And being able to create something interactive – I always get feedback about my work and that is really exciting – knowing that I’m putting my work out there, and someone loves it, I feel like I’m creating for other people’s visual pleasure in a positive way. That’s really fun."

B: Can you also please explain what Cobalt Cafe is?

Z: "Cobalt Cafe is really a visual hub of all the creative things I do – fashion illustration, self publishing, art workshops, traditional art. It’s a pipe dream that will eventually become a physical space – a place for me to showcase art, hold workshops and open up a little cafe perhaps. I’d love to be able to create a creative and relaxing place of interest, I guess, watch this space?"

I didn't hesitate to purchase a number of Liew's prints at the recent London Super Comic Convention (which I politely asked her to sign and she happily and humbly agreed to do for me). The idea of framing them and hanging them around the house fills me with joy.

Thank you again, it was a pleasure meeting you and I look forward to more of your work!

Visit Zarina's website for more art and information at www.cobaltcafe.co.uk

[B]

Friday 7 December 2012

Wrap Your Head Around These

Introducing

A new label by New York based designer Anthia Lott specializing in designer headbands.

"I needed to find something that could help me out on those bad days when my hair has a mind of its own." - Lott

I'm sure we can all relate. Sometimes you just can't be bothered to style your hair before leaving the house. Or it's been a while since you had your hair cut, and it's in that awkward growing phase?

Turn your "Laziness" into Luxury and dress your outfit up or down with these stylish yet conventional pieces.

The 'Etched In Black' headbands come in a variety of styles, colours and materials. Limited edition pieces are also available.

Prices range from $45 - $85

And if you like these, 'EIB' are currently in the process of designing a clothing line which will also feature menswear.

Get yours here:

http://www.shopetchedinblack.bigcartel.com/

[B]

Thursday 6 December 2012

Legs Alive

Let your legs do the talking this winter with some graphic print leggings.

Pair with a black coat, black ankle boots, a shiny, patent clutch and some oversized, white-rimmed shades for a funky, sleek 60's inspired look.

- O W N I T -

[B]

Shadow Class

All I want for Christmas is... this outfit!

I've just styled this on www.Polyvore.com and it would only cost £1,785. BARGAIN

A mixture of textures and silhouettes with a little shimmer from gold metals and black leathers. Sleek, mysterious, unconventional, androgynous, edgy, dark...perfect for a cold, dark night on the town.