Investigate.Conversate. Illustrate

Illustration for Bryant Terry's new book "The Inspired Vegan"

2012-01-27T23:05:00.000-08:00

Just got the book from the homie today and its DOPE! This book is filled with great recipe’s and great atmosphere. Each recipe is complied with music, quotes, a story, and or film that inspired the recipe.

I first saw Bryant Terry when the book “Grub” came out. He was speaking about the book at a Borders book store.Very renaissance and contagiously passionate about his mission. Fast forward six or seven years later, this is his third book of recipe’s after Grub and Vegan Soul Kitchen and I've got a piece in "The Inspired Vegan" yall!

Along side the songs and the recipes are some great illustrations and graphics by artists such as Favianna Rodriguez, Jidan Koon, Rachel Konte, and one of my biggest mentor’s; Brett Cook. All of the pieces relate to the recipe, and or food. For example, the chapter my piece is on celebrates the spirit of Shirley Chisolm with several recipes and songs. From Ginger beer, tostones, and citurs sorbet to Brand Nubian, Bob Marley, The Abysinnians, and poems of Staceyann Chinn.

The brother is on his A game, with positive press from Huffington Post, NY Times, countless Chef's and Oprah to name a few. Please go check him and his beautiful family out for your self though, pick up the book at your local bookstore and thumb through it. A lot of us talk about eating healthier, but here is a simple tool to do it. I'm not a vegan, but I find the recipes, the stories, and the inspiration very fresh and empowering. Check out this video on Urban Organic TV too.

Character 26-Paikea

2012-01-26T15:48:00.000-08:00

Was watching "Whale Rider

" again recently and thought it'd be fresh to see a more teenage Paikea on a motorcycle, super heroin style. Shout out to Keisha and to Witi Ihimaera, author of the story the film was based on.

Siaira on Muphoric Sounds

2012-01-23T11:24:00.000-08:00

Got a lot of words for this musicians talent, but I wont go into it too much here, except that I support her sound and love her music. Go read about her here on Muphoric Sounds

Jazz Portraits 18-John Coltrane (Tenor/Alto Saxophone)

2012-01-16T21:41:00.000-08:00

Hands down John Coltrane is the illest Jazz musician ever , to me. He is my all time favorite and I wish that I could explain why. I waited before doing his portrait because of the gravity, then decided just to doodle something quick (a younger photo). Enjoy the process and let it go. I still remember discovering my step dads cassette recording. It was a white tape, the greatest hits that had Giant Steps, My Favorite Things and so many more. In addition to those songs, Aisha and Lush Life are some of my favorites of his music. Then of course there’s his solo’s on Kind of Blue. I could go on…. Big shout out to Jimmy Garrison, Elvin Jones, and McCoy Tyner.

January Love and Light Switches

2012-01-10T15:04:00.000-08:00

Newness, heres the link to get em in your spot. Love and light!

Positive Wall Affirmation- "Action!"

2012-01-08T23:03:00.000-08:00

Here is the first PWA of the year, a very fitting word for a mountain of when, "Action!" (link)

Short Story Year Wrap Up

2012-01-06T12:26:00.000-08:00

Here is a collage of all the short stories I created this year. After hitting a slump with a story I was writing and illustrating about me and my son, I decided to take a break from it and to just “play”. These are the results of that play, it was fun, challenging at times, eye opening, and very therapeutic. As you can see in the pieces, some of them ride the line between what is children’s book illustration and what is comics. That was intentional, no borders, no particular medium constraints, just experimentation. This year I’m already working on extending this play and intensifying the focus with “fun” still in mind. If you click the “short story” label below this post you will see the original stories in more detail. And please comment and let me know which resonated with you. You reading this will be a big part of intensifying this process of exploration this year. Peace, love, and light. Happy New Year.-Rob

Short Story 10-Lowridin' Mother & Daughter

2011-12-31T19:30:00.000-08:00

Ayanna and her mother Dolores were living a dream. They bought their rusty 61 Chevy Impala on a road trip to see grandma. When the two told grandma and the family that they were going to turn the junker into a beautiful lowrider complete with front, back, and side to side hydraulics; the family thought they were crazy. But, it takes an unordinary person (or persons) to make dreams come true. They built it! Their very own car to go cruising in. They would later start a car club and name it “A Lady’s Car Club”.

Inspiration 11

2011-12-26T16:16:00.000-08:00

From top left to right:Mc Lyte's 1st LP-Lyte as a rock (it'd been awhile, needed to hear it again), Amulet-Incredible graphic novel im reading w/ my kid, we're on #3! Chaz Bojorquez-master calligrapher, Soul Train 09 ads-caught this at Atlantic st, Black Diamond Shining crew (Dead Eyes, Ras Terms, and Ash Rose n this shot), Maroons of Jamaica by Mavis Cambell, Textiles by Colectivo Raahuna-dope styles, Illustration by zine maker Travis Fudge, Suitable 4 Framin' graffiti zine-homie Nisha is in this along w/Spie, "21 Story of Roberto Clemente" by Wilfred Santiago-incredible story/book/art, Juggaknots 1st LP-Clear Blue Skies!, Decolonize Wall Street-Cuz its a great necessary statement, The Zapatista Reader edited by Tom Hayden feat hella writers, Aja Monet-amazing poet who got lines 4 days, Just Cause/ Causa Justa becuse they've taken on some great work, Oban-Star Racers-just watched some of this w/ my kid.Cool animation collab btwn French and Japanese animators.

Muphoric Sounds 20- Lonnie Liston Smith

2011-12-24T00:00:00.000-08:00

If you get a chance to cop this LP, please do. The whole thing is dope. I have the vinyl somewhere, but I think the tape cassette laying around my moms collection kept me going back to it. That joint Digable sampled for "NY is Red Hot" is on there too. Wow, the 20th! Muphoric Sounds piece! Couldnt doctor this photo, will do later. For now just go listen...

In The Trunk w/ Lonnie Liston Smith

TiRon, Amanda Blank, & The Avalanches

2011-12-21T21:49:00.000-08:00

TiRon

Amanda Blank

The Avalanches

December Love+Light Switches

2011-12-21T15:17:00.000-08:00

Last pair of the year folks. Light switch plates for gifts or for you. Man, a whole bunch of them got scooped up at Pueblo Nuevo last weekend. Gotta make some new ones.

Shop here

Positive Wall Affirmation: "Step Frwd" (forward)

2011-12-20T13:34:00.000-08:00

The new year is about to start! This is a reminder to let go of things that are weighing us down and move forward "now". In case you've just tuned in PWA- (positive wall affirmations) are meant to have a good reminder near you in your home, office, studio, classroom, etc. In the past the words I've painted like "Breathe" or "Health is Wealth" have helped me and the folks who purchase them to live a bit lighter. I make these by using hand made or found materials and paint. Hope you enjoy.

This is the fifth in a series of small paintings I'll be doing which are:
-Hand painted
-Positive Word Affirmations
-Typography & Symbols
-Made for wall hanging

To purchase or see my shop

Chaz Bojorquez

2011-12-19T16:42:00.000-08:00

Check out this Chaz interview. This is one of my favorite artists.I first saw his work in a documentary called "Graffiti Verite" in 95.

Scbwi summer conference, The Good, The Ugly, Imix, & Amoeba

2011-12-15T22:24:00.000-08:00

This summer I went to the 40th annual SCBWI Summer conference. This was a well organized event I was referred to while going back to school to finish my BFA. I don’t know many artists personally who specialize in Children’s Books and I am a new comer to the field, so I went as a student of the game. It was hella (very) interesting and well worth the trip from the Bay Area to L.A.

I was able to pay the conference entry fee through the “QUICK Grant” which is awarded by Creative Capacity Fund to obtain professional development. Originally a year ago an instructor suggested I go, but I was unable to pay the fee then. This year I decided to find a way. The entry fee was around $500. The grant paid for over 90% of that cost. But renting a car, food, etc was another expense.

The SCBWI stands for Society of Children’s Book Writers and Illustrators. It’s an organization that provides a membership based community of writers and illustrators who are either published or starting out like me. It is an additional source of information, regional advise, special events (like this one), grants, and even special awards. They’ve been around for quite a long time. And to tell you the truth, I’m glad I became a member. Joining did not get me a book deal, and it didn’t give me “the answer”, it was another step forward that has made me more knowledgeable.

The information packet contained detailed information on each day of the 4 day conference which included key note speakers, critiques, workshops, networking sessions, portfolio reviews, a book sale, guides to the industry, and a lot of helpful tips. The hotel was luxurious and huge! The conference took up three floors of this massive place and every day we heard from key note speakers in a huge banquet hall equipped with sound system and video monitors.

The Good!
-I met people in my field! I know a lot of artists, but not many children's books illustrators/writers. It was paramount that I go expand my horizons by meeting some new people.

-I learned many insider tips about the business. Things that the website does not come out and say, like for example. If you are a member of this organization, when submitting manuscripts or portfolios, some publishers will give Scbwi members first peek.

-I met some elders. Its comforting to know that there are people who do this successfully and can earn a living doing what they love.

-I got to see what my competition looked like. There were tons of portfolios out there, and tons of people both new and experienced to ask questions of. Most were open and helpful.

-Most of the art I saw was phenomenal!

-It affirmed my suspicion that there is a desperate need for someone, anyone with the guts to put bilingual and children of color focused books at the fore front. Both of these are barely a blip on their radar (in my opinion). It’s unfortunate for them because I felt like they’re blind to a lot of people by not being more inclusive of more diverse stories. But, it’s good for me because it showed me a wide-open opportunity.

-I got encouragement from pro’s first hand. When I submitted my portfolio for the competition I didn’t win, but one of the judges came up to me and spoke to me about my work after wards. That was extremely helpful!

-I gathered information and resources. Eventually I want to be able to share what I know about this business with others. I wouldn’t be able to share much if I didn’t go to learn from events like these.

The Ugly!
-No People of color (POC)! There were about 2000 attendees including presenters. About 5% of them were people of color. Specifically, No Men of color! Out of the people there, 70% of them were women. Brothers!! We need to be involved in this! When I go to the major book stores, even the black owned stores it is hard as hell to find a book that shows a positive, thoughtful, or even edgy image of a father of color taking care of his kids! That has got to change. Fail!

-Bi-lingual books. Ok, beyond just welcoming POC and making them a constant presence at an event like this, it is important to acknowledge language. Spanish and Chinese (mandarin/Cantonese) are the most widely spoken languages around the world next to English. But, no mention of bi-lingual books! None! Wack! Unacceptable!

-The cost. Most young artists, students, and aspiring illustrators or writers cannot afford $500, plus a plane ticket if they don’t live in LA, plus room and board. This event is grand, the hotel is grand, but they need to figure out how to cut costs somewhere so that more young people can attend. The majority of the women there were over 40, probably with regular 9-5 jobs. What about recent college grads? After the last day there were extra workshops that could have been useful to me, except for the fact that the cost $300 each

-Children! Here at a conference about children, there were NO children at the event. No young speakers, no classes invited, beyond the illustrated books, not one single image or mention by kids them selves. I feel like children although young have a lot to offer the discussion on how to make better children's books. Also, I am a young parent. What if I wanted to go but needed childcare? That was not an option, and it should be. Especially for single parents.

Highlights: I attended a workshop with Pat Cummings and Priscilla Burris. These two women (both women of color) gave some warm, stern, to the point insight on the business and their experiences. For example, most art instructors will tell you “make postcards of your work and send it out to publishers like crazy”. But what you don’t know is that an average art director (in charge of hiring illustrators) receives something like 100 postcards a day. That’s about 500 a week, or 2000 a month! It’s hard to get noticed in that race. An important note Pat and Priscilla made was to target your favorite books by finding out edited, art directed, illustrated, wrote them. Then send a specific collection of work and letter to that specific art director or team, because it shows that you are not just throwing work out aimlessly.

Steven Malk -I went to Stevens workshop about breaking into the business. Why? I did my homework before I got there and found out that he represented (he’s an agent) several of my favorite children’s book illustrators like Kadir Nelson and Adam Rex. What I found out is that illustrators work ten times harder than I thought they did. He gave a slide show about what kind of work he receives, what stands out and why. Now, some of you are saying “so what, what’s he know?”. Well, its an illustrators job to get paid well to do what they love. I mean, imagine working on a story you love for an entire year and being paid to do just that. And, I’ve seen the work of his clients. It’s tip top! I don’t want to be like his clients, but I wanted to know what information he would give. One of the jewels was that art directors get tired of receiving postcards. He showed personalized dummy’s (a mock up of a story in book format) and specially sewn together fabric/paper promotional pieces. It’s not all about money, but this definitely made me want to step my game up.

Sarah Stern - Sarah is one of the newest staff members to Scbwi and she made an impact on me because she remembered me. Months before I attended the event, I sent my work to various publishers, agents, etc in an effort to produce, work, and learn. One of the people I contacted and sent my work to when I first became an Scbwi member was Ms Stern. And when I checked in at the front desk, she remembered my work and my name before she saw me. That helped ease the anxiety of being one of maybe 10% of people there under the age of 50, and being probably the only man of color there, period!

E.B. Lewis -This brother was very nice. I was sitting outside in between workshops eating lunch. A little frustrated at what I didn’t see there, but trying to appreciate what was in front of me. I offered my food to anyone around me as a way to just make conversation and network. Low and behold, one of the people I talk to was E.B. Lewis! If you’re not familiar with his work look up “I love my hair”. This brother not only gave me advice, but he acknowledged me, my concerns, and my questions. All without an ego or authoritative tone. To hear about his work and his life helped me focus and be present.

Imix/Mi Vida- What the conference lacked in books about people of color and bi-lingual childrens books I got from Mi Vida (Highland Park) book section managed by former book store owner Elisa Sol Garcia (Imix). The store was beautiful. I swear East La is one of the only places I’ve been where I see Chican@s playing electric guitars and singing rock or punk songs. Artist Oree Originol took me on a brief tour and when I told him I wanted to see books, this is where he took me. The store breathed life back into my heart because it showed me again what is possible. The collection of books was seriously like nothing I’ve ever seen and I’m thankful to know there are people out there who care about telling stories that are often ignored by whites and mainstream society.

While I was on my way down there I drove by myself and got a chance to work out a lot of things in my head. Although I hate driving in traffic, I love riding to music so I just enjoyed driving through La’s west and East side, seeing all the people, all the stores, the smells, sounds. I know some folks hate L.A., but I was comforted by it. Lots of beautiful people out there. Also, when I got there I got a chance to hook up with Oree. We rode to the Iron Lak (spray paint)store because they were having a store opening with some dope pieces on the wall. There we also ran into Graffiti veterans from the bay Estria and Vogue. A good night indeed. Lastly, I stayed with my cousin Tremaine who I hadn’t seen since my grandfather passed away. We hadn’t really kicked it for several years so it was wonderful to see him , go to Amoeba Records, and just catch up, offering advice and sharing stories with this young father to be.....

Typography 17 -Yesterdays New Quintet (Y)

2011-12-10T13:46:00.001-08:00

Two of my favorite songs by YNQ are "Uno Esta" and "Little girl". Not sure when I first heard of Madlib's group YNQ, but I think it was on a Stones Throw sampler. I bought one of the vinyl lp's years ago and fell in love with the simplicity of the loops and rhythm.

Shabazz Palaces-Black Up

2011-12-06T21:38:00.001-08:00

Rappers, take notes!

Original art+Store

2011-11-27T13:49:00.001-08:00

Some original art that Ive had too long, that would probably look better in yo' house.

Plus some small things you can give as a gift

La Piel Que Habito, Outside the Law, Flowers of Evil

2011-11-26T14:42:00.001-08:00

These are some great films I saw recently.

Typography 16- Stuyvesants

2011-11-22T17:06:00.001-08:00

I think I first became hip to the work of Darien Victor Birks and Allan Cole by seeing the site FLWRPT. I then started to hear something about them making music and when the “Stuyvesants instrumental LP dropped it was bananas! I’ve had this joint on rotation in my mp3 player ever since it came out and have seen various folks connect with it. My favorite joints from the LP are “Fire (Untrue)” , “Seldom Seen”, and “Greene St. Anthem”. Before living in Bed Stuy (Brooklyn) I probably wouldn’t have appreciated the different vibes a street or area has. But my kid used to attend a school on Greene St so it does stick out in my mind. Anyway, if you’re not up on these cats, go check out their work, its free to download. And if I’m not mistaken they just came out with some new material

. Hype design and music! Check out the letter S for Stuyvesants! Greene Ave. Anthem by The Stuyvesants

Celebrate You (TYS Show) art process+photos

2011-11-16T01:52:00.001-08:00

Here are a few photos from the recent "Celebrate You" show my crew put on in Oakland the week of the tear gas and the first attack on the Occupiers. We had been planning this show before the Occupy movement started and felt although we didn't call it 99% or use the term "Occupy" in it, that it related. The folks we chose to paint in this show are activists, teachers, community members, artists, friends, and loved ones.

I chose to paint my aunt Felicia who just passed away recently from cancer, my home girl Ericka's children because theyre beautiful babies and I believe that along with adults, childrens images should be present. I also painted Lateefah Simon, one of the baddest activists you'll ever meet from SF. I met her while working in SF Juvenile Justice system. And lastly my son. My photos of the others from the show suck, so I'm going to try and put them up later. But, I did take some cool shots of my process painting my little one.

In these photos you will also see Yoshi and Bounce of the TYS crew, and our homie Evan Bissell. So many artists helped us like Brett Cook, David Platford, Oree, Kerri, Anthony, DJ Leydis, DJ Wonway, Plinio, Eli, El Taco Bike,and many more. It takes a lot to pull together a show y'all. A lot of time, money, energy, and planning. We didn't set out to sell any of the work, just to share it. And we set up a community painting/drawing space inside the gallery in so artists could get down on the theme which was to celebrate yourself, your family, friends, and those who've inspired you along this path called life. There was also a selected photo timeline of people we've met on our travels as a crew. More photos will come. What was inside the space is now in the window front on 2930 Telegraph ave in Oakland California, if you cant make it by check out what the space is about. Its being curated by Evan Bissell and Brett Cook. Free for anyone to see. Thank you if you came out to see it.

Jazz Portraits 17-Dorothy Ashby (Harp)

2011-11-12T14:05:00.001-08:00

I found Dorothy's music through hip hop. INI+Pete Rock to be exact. I'm syill digging into her sound but my favorites of her's so far are "Drink" , "Heaven and Hell", and of course "Cause I need it". If you can tell me the name of the LP Pete Rock sampled "Cause i need it", i'll send you a drawing. :)

Occupy Oakland, Tear gas, Reclaimation, General Strike

2011-11-09T01:23:00.000-08:00

I'm not going to say much even though y'all know I talk a lot. Just that I support revolutionary change. I'm not going to attempt a run down of the Occupy movement, go google it. Protests ain't new, they ain't the BE all to END all either, rather they're a strategy among many to rally sleepy heads and to let oppressors know what time it is(we see you). There have been hella organizations, teachers, artists, musicians, regular working class folk like your momma or mine, and activists in the bay working for education, jobs, immigrant rights, freedom of speech, media objectivity, LGBTQ rights, Human Rights, etc etc. This Occupy movement, inspired by uprisings in the middle east is growing from these everyday fighters here in the bay and across the nation. I was skeptical at first, still am, but like you I am curious. So I went to an action in SF against Wells Fargo and I went down to Occupy Oakland with my son. Yes I work, yes I'm a parent, yes I have freelance shit to do, and many projects bubbling, but this is a pivotal thing happening!

See my photos from the camps before the police came in and shredded a peaceful act of protest. The photos at night are from the infamous night OPD shot teargas at all of us who were out there, and a few shots from the peoples response to the police and Mayor Jean Quan's after that. Oakland's first general strike for decades.

What has happened? Oakland joined the Occupy movement, along w/ San Francisco and several hundred other cities. People, not just hippies, but ordinary people like bus drivers, navy officers, students, etc have been sitting together through the nights at city hall breaking into groups and making decisions about how to let Oakland residents know what is up and to make demands. On a local level, Oakland has just shut down several schools. In the past year or so they've cut many jobs, cut libraries, de-funded school, the death toll from violent murders has been hovering above 100 for i don't know how many years, programs, increased police funding, and people here are pissed off. What happens if the city ignores them? Strike! I mean, if you knew half of the shit corporations like Citibank and Wells Fargo, Goldman Sachs or even folks like Standard Oil have done with US tax payers money here locally and internationally...you would be real pissed off too. And they claim there's no money for basic shit? Bull! Stuff is hot out here and it's about to heat up.

On a positive note, my son, my family, mom, step father, my crew, and countless homies including some of my kids school teachers came out to the day of strike and it was a beautiful day. The media estimates 4-5000. I say there was more like 30,000 out there. Families, union workers, kids, queer folks, hood folks, folks from all over the bay came and shut the port of Oakland down. My son was so inspired, many tmes that day he began shouting with his friends all by himself. Adults and kids around us joined him and handed him a megaphone. Proud Daddy moment for sure!I don't watch much TV, and have had some shaky net access for the past month, so I'm sure there are many reports on Oakland (google it), but I like what Davey D had to say here. I'm brainstorming how I can contribute artistically to inspire and inform. The post about the TYS show we did the same week of the strike is coming up. Oh yeah, and Oakland took back the downtown occupy space after the cops tried to barracade it. For all you nay sayers and fence riders, in the words of James Brown "Get involved" if what you want to say is not being said.

East Bay Edibles x Tamales La Oaxaquena

2011-11-07T11:02:00.000-08:00

When I was living in West Oakland I met a very generous, loving, and talented family. Carolina Santos, her momma Oliva, and her son Isaac (who my son often played with). Carolina, my friend and old neighbor often offered to let me try the food her mom and her made, but one day I tried the mole her mom made and was floored. The best I have tried ever! Delicious. Living next door to her family I got to hear about how challenging it is to run a business centered around food. The catering they do, the wins, the losses, the customers who are supportive and the ones who couldn't begin to imagine the amount of history, dedication, and hard work go into the tamales they eat. I vowed to lend a hand artistically, but fell short of my initial promise. So when I got the word that Carolina wanted to do an article about the business I jumped at the opportunity to do some illustration. As I have mentioned food related art in the past year; it goes right along with the work I've been developing. And this family business needs the attention of anyone who appreciates good food and the history of Mexican food. Not only do these two make delicious food, but they can tell you stories about what life was like in Oaxaca Mexico and why that is important to how they make the food.If you want to know more about them I highly suggest checking out this issue of East Bay Edibles. The article is called "Something Spicy, something sweet". Edibles, in case you don't know it is a national magazine about good food, the people that sell it and grow it. Hit up Carolina at tamalesoaxaca@gmail.com or call em at 510-613-5836

Big shout out to Edibles editor Cheryl Koehler for publishing the piece!

Muphoric Sounds 19-Hugh Masekela

2011-11-06T00:57:00.000-07:00

One of my favorite

Masekela joints. Pulled this one out of the dusty boxes of my memory for yall. Hope you enjoy. Go listen at Muphoric Sounds

November Love and Light Switch (switch plate)A

2011-11-01T22:14:00.000-07:00

hh, fell off with my switch plates. But I'm back on it and more to come as usual. What do you think? I was having fun with the brazilian color combo. Heres the shop listing

Sometimes it gets shelved -RIP Guru

2011-10-27T12:05:00.000-07:00

This is a piece that never got to see a final. Although it wasnt exactly what my client was going for, I liked it. Rest in peace to the incredible GURU. Yall remember "The Conspiracy"? Rings true still today.

Typography 15-Thelonius Monk

2011-10-17T14:42:00.000-07:00

T is for Thelonius!! When i was a young teen I remember buying a best of Thelonius LP. I listened to this dudes cd over and over again. Epistrophy is a dope song that was on there, but my favorite from that CD was "Trinkle Tinkle". Something about the speed and weirdness of his playing on there to me suggested happiness and absolute craziness! You can hear two version here. Version 1 and version 2.

Character 26 -Morpheus

2011-10-14T12:30:00.000-07:00

Did you know a woman named Sofia Stewart, not The Wachoiski Bros wrote the original story for "The Matrix"?

Short Story 9 + Process

2011-10-12T13:07:00.000-07:00

In the age of flight schools there were communities that taught young people of all tribes and ages. At these schools they learned about science, problem solving, mathematics, our story, art, spirituality, and magic. When an outside visitor and his cohorts threatened to destroy these schools of progressive thought and action, the students sought to defend it. And defend it they did, using all the elements of the earth at hand. Some flew on air and land, others flew on water. Descendants of one of planet earths most ancient tribes; "Sena" the oldest of the girls in her surfing class and "Galbadon" who was in the beginning boys surf class escaped a major catastrophy in the northern temple. They were to become the new guardians of the sacred water stone............

A note about this process and these stories: If you are just tuning into my short stories series , let it be known that these are experimental short stories with experimental painting/drawing/ writing technIques. I seek to tell stories about children and people of color that are both real and fantasy, but grounded in reality. I'm working "it" so to speak. If you are viewing this, let me know what you think as I continue to explore my practice of telling stories on a larger scale. Also, check out the drawing process. Click the "short story" label below the post and you will see more like this one...

Inspiration 10

2011-10-10T23:49:00.000-07:00

Inspiration board. Starting from top left. Aryz -Dope Writer from Barcelona. Def Sound+Nikko Gray's "Lunar Sun Light". The 656 crew!Love these folks. Aurora from La Casa Azul because she is creating a bookstore in Harlem focusing on books by Latin@ authors/illustrators. Janine Macbeth because she's fundraising to publish her own childrens book. Dustin Nyugen-a dope illustrator who does a lot in watercolor. Shabazz Palaces-lead by former Digable Planet Butterfly is on some ill coded rhyme shit. Uprisings in North Africa/Middle East included something like 15 countries such as Egypt, Bahrain, Libya, Yemen, and is still happening now. Dont know who did the type w/ the scissors, but I like it. Rage against the Machine-Mincho hooked me and my son up w/ some classic joints, like "Renegades". Illustrator Dan Santat, incredible storytelling skills! Thanks to Hard Knock Radio I heard Dr. Joy DeGruy drops science on race & post traumatic slave syndrome. The Wall Street occupation which is history now! Don't be fooled by the media, there are thousands of people out there in Manhattan, and nearly 900 related actions like it from NYC to the Bay Area. Imix Books (Sol!). I had the chance to meet the owner of Imix Books, a constant force of knowledge specializing in books by/about Latin@ stories; now at "Mi Vida" in Highland Park. Brave New Voices-Youth Speaks! Yo, I was definitely jaded on Poetry, but I took my cousin to see the Grand Slam Finals and we were both jumping up cheering! Lastly, an incredible illustrator, Sean Mack from Detroit. Check these folks,events, things out!

New Music-Shabazz Palaces

2011-10-09T01:38:00.000-07:00

The homie Bounce put me onto this and Ive been hitting repeat on quite a few of their songs since. Can you guess the voice rhyming on this track?

Oh oh, Baby Boy, 656 in NYC, La Casa Azul, and "We Like it like that"

2011-10-07T17:46:00.000-07:00

My friend Janine Macbeth is self publishing her first children's book.F the publishers, F the agents! She's doing it on her own. Support her kickstarter campaign if you have the time! Its a book about Dad's who are present! Like Ed Og said "Be a father to your child".

The homies from 656 Comics are at the NY Comic Con from October 13-16th. Please go suppor them if youre in NYC.

Also, check out "La Casa Azul", its a pitch to start a local book store in NYC with a focus on Latin@ authors. Again, support and pass along widely. Folks are saying to hell with the talking and "doing it!"http://www.indiegogo.com/LaCasaAzulBookstoreNYC

40K in 40 days campaign, La Casa Azul Bookstore from Lucha Libros on Vimeo.

Just came across this! Looks dope, people telling a story that needs to be heard!!

September Love and Light Switches

2011-09-30T12:31:00.000-07:00

Its the end of a busy month. Lots of work, projects, and making space for rest. Here's the latest in the light switch series. For the new viewer to this, I have been painting these as a way of small income, abstract release, and practice for many things. If you know someone who just got married or just moved into a new home, tell em! To see my etsy shop and more like these GO HERE.

Jazz Portraits 16 -Dizzy Gillespie

2011-09-26T13:13:00.000-07:00

A titan of Jazz Music! Some of my favorite Dizzy songs are "Night in Tunisia" and "Manteca"

Positive Wall Affirmation- "Health is Wealth"

2011-09-15T10:13:00.000-07:00

Here is the fourth in my PWA (Positive Wall Affirmation) series. I started these as a bridge to several things. One , making positive reminders for myself and anyone else who could use them. Two, to practice painting typography and building tiny things. Three, I'm going to be raising funds for my kids school, so ten percent of any pwa sales will go to my kids school. Hey im in the PTA, except we dont call it that. Its a bilingual school so we call it Unidos y Adelante! Check out the rest of the series by clicking the tags, then keep your eye out for magazines that might feature an item like this. More to come! This phrase because......if I have my health I feel wealthy.

Health is Wealth

PS: This series was featured in the Etsy Artists of color Blog .Check them out if you haven't yet.

Amulet (Graphic Novel) + Casual (MC)

2011-09-14T23:14:00.000-07:00

I think the first time I saw Kibuishi's work was at a TYS house. My homegirl Erin and Cece's house in Bklyn. Either they or Shaun had one of the "Flight" books.Been watching his work since then. This book has some amazing storytelling in it. Except when I read it I make up my own soundtrack. Imagine this old Casual song/ Domino beat in the background! Perfect marriage!

Character 25-Jedi Ahsoka

2011-09-13T17:58:00.000-07:00

I have a little one and we watch Star Wars Clone Wars occasionally. He likes the clone Rex and I told him I thought the Jedi Ahsoka Tano was fresh. I imagine her here more grown up though. Enough that dude's from other planets would be definitely giving flowers!

Ciudad Juarez Fotos, Video, Words, y 656

2011-09-06T21:49:00.000-07:00

This summer I traveled to Ciudad Juarez, a border town in Northern Mexico. Someincredible and beautiful people from the 656 Comics crew invited me out. 656 Comics is an international award winning crew of Comic Book creators, who do their part to educate and work with young artistic minds from all walks of life in Juarez. As a growing production house of comics, they have independently published theirwork, spoke at universities and conferences, contributed to anthologies, and given back to their city's youth by bringing art to them by any means necessary. And in one of the most dangerous cities in Mexico, that is no small accomplishment!Their stores about life on La Frontera are illustrated with care and attention to detail. They are written with a serious but humorous satire that mirrors the changes that have been happening in the city over the past decade. I am super blessed to show you some photos, video, and share some thoughts about what it was like to kick it with them.
This August I was flown down to El Paso Texas, then driven over the border into Ciudad Juarez. I had been communicating with “Pancho” and “Oliver” of 656 for over two years. I had been introduced to their work by Samax at Ghetto Manga and immediately hit up the crew when I was still art directing Come Bien Books to collaborate. We spoke over the phone and through email, but it was nice to finally meet in person. 656 main crew consists of Francisco, Oliver, Laura, and Marcos. There is another cat who’s in the crew but I didn’t get a chance to meet him. Below you can see some covers from their incredible stories!

Day One
I was picked up from the airport by The US consulate in Ciudad Jaurez who sponsored my trip. Big shout out to the US Consulate, because if it wasn't for them I wouldn't have been able to meet such amazing folks.The homie Juan Pablo “JP” came to get me and immediately took me to see a place I was super excited about, Cinco Puntos Press! Located in El Paso, this is one of the premier publishers of bilingual books and it is one of the first publishers I sent my art to. Dope people, great store, truly an honor. Next I got a new sense of what it was like to be in a foreign country for the first time in a long time. We went to a taqueria in Juarez and I realized I had a lot to learn about how things work in Mexico. First, pesos. I’m told that 11 pesos equals a dollar or something like that. Anyway, when I paid for my tacos they told me I could pay in dollars…What??For reals? Too easy, its going to take more practice to learn pesos. I think it's also very fucked up that the US is the only country using miles or gallons when in Mexico and so many other parts of the world they use kilometers and liters. I think small things like this are to cut us off from the rest of the world. Anyways, here you see some photos of the stop on the workshop schedule.

The first workshop was at MUREF (Museo de la Revolucion en la Frontera). This was located in the middle of town and was a beautiful museum. The inside was beautiful and as I was lead on a tour of the museum I was told that this museum was dedicated to the history of the Mexican Revolution with artifacts, newspapers, weapons, photos, and memorabilia of Pancho Villa, La Adelita, and Emiliano Zapata. The workshop I was to give was meant to be with 20 or 30 kids and there was something like 50 or 60 people there! It was a big challenge for me to give it all in Spanish too, to a room of kids, parents, elders, and museum officials. I was nervous but once we started communicating and laughing it was hella (a lot of) fun. The youth were inspiring. Super creative, skilled, excited, alert, and engaged. After two hours of exercises and group work I spent the next 30 minutes trying to humbly take the praise I was given by the folks in attendance. Everyone was so nice, asking to take photos with me, or asking for drawings. Some even gave me their drawings! I fought back the tears as I was truly touched. To see more photos from this event like the one below go to SOMOS Frontera/El Paso Times.

In addition to the large attendance, I was asked to answer questions with the occasional camera interview of the local Television media.

I was happy to do this, albeit a bit nervous. But, this event was not about me. It was about giving the kids who attended another perspective on how art is used. Ciudad Juarez has been ravaged by Narco violence and the murder of thousands of women near the maquiladoras (factories) run by US and Mexican companies. In the last 5 years the amount of homicides has risen from 300, to 500, to 750, to more than a thousand. The reporters kept asking me why I came there and the kids thanked me for visiting they’re city. It wasn’t until I started doing some more reading about the death toll that I realized something like 1000 people had already been murdered in the city. Check out these articles 1 and 2 . 656 are part of the solution though, defying the negativity that seems to be the only thing people hear about Juarez, to talk about something else. Art.

That night Juan Pablo, Oliver and Marcos of 656 took me to a local Mexican reataurant after arguing about which place they should take me to so I wouldn’t get sick, bored, or dissatisfied with the food. Went back to the hotel and rested, watching novelas and Harry Potter en television.Here is the crew in front of Muref.

Day TwoConference in the University TECNOLOGICO DE MONTERREY campus Cd. Juarez. This was a heavily guarded university that was farther out of the central city. They told me it was the nicer part of town. It was a beautiful building that I spoke in. There I got to meet Laura Ramirez a university instructor and the one behind a local library called Ma’Juana. The class was very cool, small in comparison to the previous day. With the kids I did a powerpoint presentation talking about me, how I started in art, my influences, and my crew. It was cool to look back as I spoke about memories and homies and it was cool for these kids because they spoke English as well as Spanish. So they got to practice their English skills with me. I did a very brief workshop with them about mural sketch design where I talked about messaging, legibility, and audience of a mural. It was fun and the folks who could stay for the entire thing were very laid back.

To see more photos from this workshop go to Communidad fronteriza

After that Pancho, a young Graf Writer named Bash, and Laura took me to eat Argentinian food. Ahhh, superrrrRico! Over lunch I listened closely as they spoke about the university, the work they do, the city, and how they get by. I also learned a lot of slang words. Mexicanos in Juarez remind me of hustlers or players in Oakland. They speak rapidly, but very smoothly. Words like “nekte” which means “connection” or “hook it up” were hard to miss. “La Bronca” which is like the obstacle, the problem, or the barrier. Chavo, which is more common, like a “dude” or a “boy”. Chingon, more difficult to explain. “Fucking”, “fucking cool”, ??? Heard that word a lot along with “Guey”, which means fool or the Bay Area equivalent to “blood”. There were others like “Frio como nariz”, “Estas Pedo”, and “No Mames Guey” , which means don’t suck or stop trippin fool!

Later that night I also went with Pancho and his son to see Transformers 3 en Espanol. I wanted to see some independent flicks like “Amorres Perros or “Y la LLuvia Tambien” but my folks explained to me that theaters that showed them were no longer common in Juarez. Many businesses and people had picked up and left the city. That night my weakness for frosty drinks got the best of me. I forgot about the water in the icey I drank and got my stomach “fuuuuuucked up!!” It was rough night!

Day Three
Next day after resting in my old school hotel in the middle of the hood and hoping my stomach would recuperate, I had another workshop at "Companeros" with a group of teenaged comic writers and illustrators. Before this I got to walk around the hood next to "Companeros" that does literacy work, and data gathering about drug use by young folks in the city. A cool place with very laid back staff. That afternoon 656 asked me to talk about how I’ve fundraised with my crew and how I saw self promotion/ or self marketing, which was really fun to talk about. I Began by showing examples of my work and by doing a new workshop Ive been working on for a year now called “Sequential Storytelling”. It involves elements of Film, Children’s books, Graphic Novels, and Comics.

The youth there were mostly writers so it was a challenge to make it relevant to them as a visual artist. Talking about funds and promotion I delved into websites, blogs, social media, the law of attraction (which I’ve been studying), and sites like IndieGogo or Kickstarter. But, I have a lot to learn, because it isnt so easy to throw a party there with all the violence. And not everyone has access to a video camera or editing equipment to make a fundraising video. In the end, I stressed the importance of letting everyone around you know about what it is that you do creatively.

After that I got the chance to have lunch with some other folks. A young comic creator named Rexito Marana was with us, his work is definitely worth checking out. But after eating at a local joint called VIP’s (like the Mexican version of Ihop) my stomach got to me. It wasn’t a pretty site. Had to crash because I was super sick. Did my best to rest that night so I wouldn’t miss the next day’s workshops with the babies!

Day FourI get to see the babies! Ok, I must admit how much I love kids! I was missing my son too (who was away in Ecuador) so it felt good to be around little ones. I met many young kids at Ma’Juana library, which is an independent library. It was in another hood in Juarez that was very different from where my hotel was. No paved roads. Very old house. It kind of reminded me of Mississippi where my grandfather was from, except much much more densely populated. The library was dope though! There wasn’t anything like it for blocks in any direction. There's a beautiful mural on the front and when I walked inside it was like children's book heaven. Tons of books in Spanish ranging from picture books, encyclopedia’s, comics, and other assorted art books. It was very inspiring to see because Laura and Francisco/Pancho of 656 built the library largely from their own books, buying abroad, and getting donations. It was like a mini version of an all Spanish language bookstore I saw in Jackson Heights Queens once. They had classic’s like “En El Desvan” and new ones like “La Peor Mjuer en todo el Mundo”. So after sadly turning down a bowl of home made Posole because my stomach still hurt, I got to meet the little ones from around the way. Some were as big as 11 or 10 and some were only 3. They were all super cute, smiling, laughing, and staring at me like with curious eyes. I did a basic drawing workshop with them using letters and characters and they got into it, drawing with crayons, pencils, makers, and whatever was available. More photos at Communidad Fronteriza

After that I got to meet some of Laura’s family and some more cool folks from the neighborhood. Everyone I must say without a doubt was beautiful, humble, generous, hilarious, creative, and loving. I am eternally grateful for my short stay among the 656 Crew and their extended familia. They left me with some copies of their comics, a few independent Mexican and Spanish films, and even some books for my son. I missed them as soon as I got to the airport. I headed out with Laura dn Juan Pablo to do some shopping in El Paso just because I still had a bit of time and I enjoyed kicking it with them. JP even gave me a Julieta Venegas CD! I love me some Julieta (Tijuana, MX)!

And that was my trip. Despite what the media says about Juarez, what i've heard about the Femicide, Maquiladoras, or Narco Violence I found the folks I met to be super tough and ready to change the world. If you know any artists out there who are doing their best to create beautiful art, serve their community some how, and are not afraid of learning a few new words let me know. I will pass them to the 656 crew. Likewise, if you are in the US and you want to support this group, hit them up! Buy their books! Tell any young brown creative writers or aspiring comic artists that they CAN do it. This crew is proof of that, and they’re on their way to New York’s Comic Con this October (check this link to see how "Diverse" the event is and you'll see why I ask for you to support their stories). Go visit their table, give them a pound and a hug for me. Love yall my Ciudad Juarez Family! Thank you to Pancho, Oliver, Marcos, JP, Laura Ramirez, 656, The US Consulate, Muref, Companeros, Ma'Juana, all the young students and artists I met (never give up! follow your dream, and change it all), and all the media that covered the workshops. Si olvido su nombre, perdon. Yo estaba enamorado con todo que estaba pasando en frente de mis ojos! -Rob/Tres

If you want to get in touch with 656 hit them up on Facebook, Twitter, Youtube, Deviant Art, or Blogger. Love and light!

Here are some screen shots of some of the press the workshops got while I was there.

Jazz Portraits 15-Bobbi Humphrey

2011-08-29T22:15:00.000-07:00

I found Bobbi through hip hop music, and again this is one of the ways my love and appreciation for her music has grown. You remember which group sampled "San Francisco Lights"?

I also love "My Little Girl" and my all time favorite BLACKS AND BLUES!
Bobbi was one of the first female instrumentalists to be signed to Blue Note, recording several LP's w/them and is still alive and playing today! Give thanks to creativity where ever you may find it.

Sounds on Monday

2011-08-29T20:27:00.000-07:00

Always loved this song. Their Lp was super slept on! Asheru/Blue Black

Ayah and DJ Jazzy Jeff! Great LP! If they had a video for "maybe we can just" Id be in it!
Lunar.Sun.Light. by ∂eƒS❍und & NiKK❍ GR▲Y
Def Sound + Nikko Gray .Oooh, this song is SEXY! Slowly making a wave is Def Sound from the Illav8r crew. Just getting hip to Nikko Gray too, but I love her voice.

Character 24-Rufio

2011-08-28T22:15:00.000-07:00

Anyone remember this film? Always wished we could have gotten more backstory. Fuck it;a whole damn movie about the character "Rufio". This is my version of him if he left never never land for a few years and came back.

Muphoric Sounds 18- Colourbox (uk)

2011-08-28T10:49:00.000-07:00

Love this record by Colourbox. I think I broke my dads old mixtape that had this record on it. It was filled with original dub mixes and cats rewinding the record only to start it again. Check out this remake of the classic Dennis Brown/Augustus Pablo joint..."Baby I love You so". This is part of my "In the Trunk" series on

Muphoric Sounds

Typography 14- Digable Planets

2011-08-23T11:02:00.000-07:00

"D" is for Digable Planets. I first heard of them like everybody else through Cool Like Dat. My dad actually told me I should check them out, I think. Then I kept listening to them even when the second LP came out and most forgot about them. I went to see them perform at the Fillmore in SF in 95' when Blowout Comb was brand new, then again in 2006. Through LadyBug's individual releases, Butterfly's "Cherry Wine", and Doodlebug's solo work as C.Knowledge they're still standing strong! Peep this video of them live in Toronto. Two of my favorites:
Pacifics (NY Is Red hot)
Graffiti feat Jeru Da Damaja

Quick Piece at SF Arts Institute

2011-08-16T00:50:00.000-07:00

One of my mentors and one of the illest artist's I know Brett Cook invited a bunch of folks to come through and paint with a class of students he was teaching over the summer. It was nice to be back at the SF Arts Institute and cool as a slurpee on new years to work with the fam Yoshi, Cece Carpio, Ms Sarai, Evan Bissell (as always), and the students from Brett's class who were all very talented. Here's a few quick photos from my cell phone and Brett's Flickr.

Jazz Portraits 14-Madlib the Beat Konducta

2011-08-09T17:50:00.000-07:00

I might need an extra page to count all the Madlib (aka Quasimoto, Beat Konducta, YNQ, Madvillian, Jaylib) beats I keep on rotation. This cat is like one of the illest and most prolific Jazz Musicians on the beat machine you ever heard. How about
So Much
Dear God
Basic Instinct
Mystic Bounce
support his music here

Short Story 8 + Children's Book Progress

2011-08-03T15:18:00.000-07:00

The Story Context: On a cold day in Brooklyn a father and son take a journey together to cure a cough.They not only encounter obstacles, but they have fun getting past them.

In this scene: "After me and my Dad prepare the veggies and fruits, we juice them and drink to our health. The juice is both delicious and invigorating making us feel stronger and lighter with each gulp". -Saj

So, this week I'm stepping one foot closer to publishing my own Children's book. I'm heading to the SCBWI (Society of Children's Book Writers & Illustrators) LA conference where I will do away with the challenge of not knowing many other young artists working in the field. I started scribbling on post its for this story two years ago and I've re written and redrawn several times. The process you see here is a product of that practice. You see the sketch, the color examples I did in Photoshop, and the process of rendering it using watercolor and ink. Each time I paint stories, i learn a little more. And each time I talk with folks in the Children's book, Comics, or Storytelling field I learn more. I'll be blogging about it once I get back and showing photos from it. Wish me luck.

Typography 13- Bebel Gilberto

2011-08-02T12:51:00.000-07:00

B is for Bebel!Bebel has one of the most beautiful voices. I heard her music for the first time in 2001 and have loved her sound ever since. I wish more US vocalists would collaborate with international musicians. Two of my favorite Bebel songs are August Day Song and the DJ Spinna remix of Ceu Distante. to see more of my typography project, click on my portfolio or the "Jazz" label below.
Ceu Distante (Dj Spinna Remix)(1) by RobertTres

Jazz Portrait 13-Cassandra Wilson

2011-08-01T23:54:00.001-07:00

I remember when i met Cassandra Wilson, I was so nervous I couldn't think of what to say except that my grandfather was from the same state she was from as she smiled and signed my cd. My dad used to listen to her and that's how I fell in love with her sultry voice. Remember "You Move Me" and "Darkness on the Delta"? Ms Wilson, if you're looking at this portrait, its not meant to be an exact portrait, just an expression.

Roy Ayers Project

2011-07-25T09:47:00.000-07:00

Roy Ayers Project: Who is Roy Ayers? (Trailer) from Roy Ayers Project on Vimeo.

Inspiring work this crew of film makers is doing. We as a hip hop/music community owe a lot to Roy.

Mara Hruby

2011-07-25T00:26:00.000-07:00

I rarely take the time to write about NEW artists on Muphoric Sounds, something which Im going to try to remedy in the coming year. The last new artists I wrote about were Mario & Malice from Seattle, but here's a hometown hitter worth listening to. Check out Mara Hruby on Muphoric Sounds and give a shout out to Amanda Lopez, because thats how I saw her.

MARA HRUBY

Character 23

2011-07-21T00:26:00.000-07:00

Don't have a name for her yet, you got one? Just knew i wanted her to be a cool looking warrior lady. But still, a regular every day person.

Soulfood Junkies trailer

2011-07-19T00:39:00.001-07:00

Soulfood Junkies Teaser from Byron Hurt on Vimeo.

Cant wait to see this, as it relates to the diabolical plan. if you saw Bryan's last film, you know he's about to bring it! lots of feelings will be hurt, and many of my traditions and yours will be questioned. God is change.

July Love and Light Switches

2011-07-18T17:16:00.001-07:00

The double light switch is a gift for a very good friend, who has helped out me and my crew more times than I can remember. BUT, the individual light switch is yours (yes yours!) if you can tell me which historic Jazz Bassist played on this song/ LP. In honor of one of the best groups ever, hit the comments and you got it.

Warming up

2011-07-17T12:05:00.001-07:00

I draw lots of kids to warm up while listening to Madlib.

Inspiration 9

2011-07-10T00:38:00.000-07:00

Top left to right...Dani Jones-dope Illustrator, King-(La Soul Group)The Story, Stic Man (Dead prez)-Workout LP, Kazu Kibuishi-Illustrator/Comic Creator, Joe Olson-Concept artist, Dr. Boyce-Makes some interesting arguments for Black folk/poc, Mara Hruby-talented vocalist, James Morehouse Project-Where TYS recently completed a mural! Shaun Tan-Amazing children's books illustrator, Jen Wang-Illustrator/comics creator, Open Veins of Latin America by Eduardo Galeano-heavy/mind blowing book! I missed people watching, so this week i sat for an hour or so just watching folks walk by...Oakland Leaf-An organization whom i'm currently working for w/amazing kids/folks/staff. Buddhist prayer letters. Tulips-because brotha's like flowers too (hint-ladies!). Octavia Butler's "Parable of the Talents"-just finished reading this...amazing!

Again, this is when i talk briefly/show what has caught my eye, ear, or interest recently...

Jazz Portrait 12- Headnodic

2011-07-09T15:47:00.000-07:00

The twelfth in a series of drawings, scribbles, or paintings of people I consider to be Jazz and all that it encompasses. If you're not familiar with Bay Area producer "Headnodic" of the mighty Crown City Rockers/ Mighty Underdog Crew you better ask somebody. Two of my favorite Headnodic beats are "The Drive", "Something", and "one from his new lp coming up "Turn your radio up".

Typography 12 -Kat 010

2011-07-09T12:50:00.000-07:00

Just ran into this sister yesterday while she played a gig w/ Headnodic (both from Crown City Rockers) and copped the Natural Phenomenom LP, which i'd been meaning to get for awhile. Two of my favorite joints on her instrumental LP are "Phosphorescent Waves" and "My Mirage" which you can hear on itunes. Or you can visit her site at KAT010.com

Muphoric Sounds 17

2011-07-08T22:59:00.000-07:00

"In my world, full of pleasant dreams , i see a bird"

This is one of my favorite groups of all time! I thought not that many people knew about Cymande when i first picked up their record about ten years ago, but when I heard Wonway playing Bra and some of their other joints I realized I wasn't the only one who cherished their sound. Please click on the link and go to Muphoric to hear the song I chose from the "Second time around" LP. And please look for their LP's. They are more than worth it.

IN THE TRUNK

Short Story 7 + Process

2011-07-04T00:20:00.000-07:00

La India ( a hyper intelligent 5th grader) had twenty seconds to go before security at Atlantic Trading Company International alerted their security against hackers. It took her, Desiree, and Sol three hours to break past the fire wall, embedded security code, encrypted file folders, and finally the account password. Poised, ever ready and calm, India's fingers touched the screens light as feathers. Sol looked on eagerly awaiting while Desiree prayed to "La Virgen" to keep them out of jail so they could move onto junior high school.

Process: I had fun experimenting with painting digitally for this one. My biggest influences for digital painting right now are Kazu Kibuishi and Dani Jones. Both exceptional illustrator/ storytellers. How am I doing? :)

The Boondock Squad CD cover

2011-07-03T11:18:00.001-07:00

Brother Pele linked me with these musicians who make a dope mixture of punk, rock, metal, and many other influences. Starting earlier this year me and JT (vocalist)started to work on the design. Check out the process as I tried to think of something subtle to match the energy of these talents young cats' music. I finally got to see them perform live this week at the ALAY open mic and man I was impressed!!! You need to go see them LIVE. Best punk/hip hop show I've seen since Game Rebellion in Brooklyn. Anyways, hit them up on Facecrack or twitter. If you say you support real music, not that fake commercial shit, buy a cd at i-tunes or at Amoeba. Its called "This is what happens when monkeys make music"!

CCR en Espanol, Urdu, and Arabic

2011-07-02T16:23:00.001-07:00

Two years ago I illustrated the "If an agent knocks" booklet for the Center for Constitutional Rights in NYC. It's a historic document meant for activists, cultural workers, and regular citizens standing up for their rights. Because the US government and intelligence agencies often watch, surveille, arrest, torture, and even kill folks who step out of line, documents like these are important. In January they asked me to redo the cover which was translated into Arabic, Urdu, and Spanish. This was challenging because of the language barrier, but a very rewarding process. I worked with art director Qa'id Jacobs again who is an incredible artist/dj in his own right. We also worked with graphic designer Ahmed Foula who checked the word translation and they all did an incredible job. If you want a book, comment or email me and i'll send you one.

Center for Constitutional Rights
Original English Cover

Positive Wall Affirmation "Flex-a-bility"

2011-06-25T18:32:00.000-07:00

I know its spelled differently, but this is the next in the series of positive wall affirmations. So many things change, and they always will. I try to stretch every now and then in order to be flexible for those changes. Again, these are positive phrases or words meant to hang around as a positive reminder. luv and light.

"FLEX-A-BILITY"

Ride the train, plane, bike, wave, etc. slap

2011-06-23T23:09:00.000-07:00

Feeling Wes Felton's "The Dream"

and that new TEEKO song too "Smile Pains"

Character 22 -Ghost Dad

2011-06-23T20:13:00.000-07:00

Was watching this last week for the first time in a long time and made me think of doing my own version of ghost dad. People of color and science fiction is something id like to see more of. What say you?

Jazz Portraits 11- Ejigayehu "GIGI" Shibabaw

2011-06-21T22:22:00.000-07:00

Can't remember how i stumbled across Gigi (Ethiopia), but i loved her voice as soon as I heard it. Here's one I like "Gole" and Mengedegna

Typography 11-Jneiro Jarel

2011-06-19T22:58:00.001-07:00

Its colorful, translucent, psychedelic, and well anyone who's heard this dudes production will feel me on the weirdness/freshness of Jneiro Jarel's ( Dr. Who Dat, Shape of Broad Minds, Willie Isz)sound. Peep
Amazonica and Soul Starr and Memories

June Love and Light Switches

2011-06-18T20:19:00.000-07:00

Fell off for a month, but im back on for now. Felt like some earth tones.

HERE

Sa Pilipinas upon us

2011-06-17T23:28:00.000-07:00

Yo, have been noticeably absent from the blog. Been finishing up a huge mural (fotos/video coming soon)at a local high school,sending off loved ones(and my heart) to fly across the globe, and helping my crew prep for their journey to The Philippines by helping to print posters/shirts/ and package them! Yes lawd, it is finally happening, my crew is traveling on our 3rd mural tour. Here is the video clip, if you need a refresher. If you know of any magazines, journalists, or artists out there please holler at me, as I will be doing my best to get press to the walls they paint. Erin Yoshi, Cece Carpio, Miguel "Bounce" Perez, and Shaun Burner will be out there collaborating w/ The Estria Foundation, Palawan University, Anak Bayan, and so many more. Check out the homie Pele and Kerri on the Jeepney photo! The folks will be in: Manila, Baguio, and Palawan. For those of you my folks who donated your hard earned scrilla (money), your gifts are on the way! If you don't get yours, please holler at me. Some of you already have, thanks! The homie Pele put together a few workshops for us about what its like out there and I have to say Im super juiced to learn more about how organizers, activists, and artists work together out there to create change.

Muphoric Sounds 16

2011-06-05T22:14:00.000-07:00

Here is the 16th installment of my "in the trunk" series on Muphoric Sounds. If you love hip hop samples you've probably heard Mr. David Axelrod's music before. I still remember the times when I would get ecstatic about just putting on a record and finding something incredible that no one had ever heard before. Take a listen to this one

HERE

Black Coffee-Even Though

2011-06-05T00:12:00.000-07:00

Big shouts out to Alex Cespedes for putting me on to this producer. I heard this exactly when i needed to. Before living in Brooklyn, I probably would have never dug house. But....with new cities, new people, and new experiences we grow. Stay strong yall and dance no matter what.

Short Story 6

2011-06-01T21:54:00.000-07:00

150 years from now Atoure walks through the abandoned courtyard with her youngest son. He has been attending flight school for nearly all his life and is maturing into quite the free spirit. Although he is the smallest of his class and the bigger kids tease him, he has listened well. Atoure talks slowly with her Caribbean accent, but she is incredibly excited just like her boy, who is "flying" after all. Truly flying!

Positive Wall Affirmation "BREATHE"

2011-05-31T21:17:00.000-07:00

I was trying to think of a name for this and i think I have one. These are hand made paintings that i am selling. I am a working artist and i choose to paint what i like. This particular series of ideas for your wall is based on my recent experience in meditation and on just reinvigorating my life and my outlook with "positivity". Sure things are not always peachy (calm & bright), we all make mistakes, but these are declarations of positive feelings and actions, that are made to be hung on a wall. Therefore, "positive wall affirmations". This is the second in this new series that I'm having fun making, cutting, hammering, gluing, and painting by hand. Big shout to Mister bouncer who shot the photo.

Whatever you are facing, breathe through it and trust your struggle. You are the master of your own destiny. Once you decide it, it's done.

BREATHE

Jazz Portraits 10- Freestyle Fellowship

2011-05-30T12:52:00.000-07:00

The Freestyle Fellowship is one of my favorite groups(Mikah 9, Peace, J Sumbi, Self Jupiter, & Aceyalone) and i don't care if you don't consider them to be a part of "Jazz" history. I do! If you are unfamiliar with FF I suggest you check out the documentary This is The Life to get an idea of the soil they grew up in. Listen to "The Sun took a Day off" .Been listening to these cats since 93'.

Character 21-Karate Kid/Jaden Smith

2011-05-28T13:08:00.000-07:00

"Dey Suffer" by Richy Pitch feat. Yasmeen

2011-05-25T21:37:00.000-07:00

The conversation for this joint began back in august of last year. I been paying attention to this dudes work here and there since he did a joint called Day to Day w/ Apani B Fly (incredible song). I hit him up to collaborate and the rest is history. Coming out on the London based BBE Records this song features some dope production by Richy and some incredible vocals by singer Yasmeen from Ghana. The entire record is full of slaps that were the result of a....check out Richy Pitch's site to learn the full story. And check out some of the process of making this. It's already been reviewed on Okay Africa, Shakara, Tropical Bass, and i admit it looks pretty fresh to see it on I-Tunes too! Support good music.

'Dey Suffer' Richy Pitch feat. Yasmeen by richypitch

Chimamanda Adichie-The power of storytelling

2011-05-24T22:19:00.000-07:00

Got this from Mitali Perkins' blog, very insightful.

Book Cover "Y U Gotta Call it Ghetto?"

2011-05-23T10:22:00.001-07:00

This past winter I started working on this book with my homie, a great Poet and now a PhD LeConte J. Dill. This is a project she started with youth from the East Oakland Youth Development Center almost a year and a half ago. This is a collection of some beautiful poems about what youth in the east go through on the bus, in the street, at school, and in their neighborhood. Please demand it in your local book store. Holler at me if you need the isbn number. Or, check out the site! Thank you LeConte! Thank you Eoydc!

http://www.yugottacallitghetto.com/

Short Story 5

2011-05-20T07:35:00.001-07:00

Eun Mi and her brother Jorge were in last place and gaining on the other contestants. This was the third year and a row that they competed in the cave races and Eun did not want to lose again. Jorge was scared and barely helped guard their box cart, but Eun kept pushing at full speed. As they came closer to the next turn.....

Jazz Portrait 9-Amel Larrieux

2011-05-17T11:40:00.001-07:00

I changed the song 3 times already cuz its been one of those days. Feelin "We can be new" today, feelin kinda blue.

Featured on "African Digital Art"

2011-05-16T15:28:00.000-07:00

I happen to be browsing through African Digital Art and saw that one of my character's was on there. Wow! Been trying to get featured on this site since it started! If you are unfamiliar with ADA, please check it out. It's one of the few high quality sites that feature illustrators and other artists of color worldwide. The two pieces featured were on the Weekly inspiration pages for WEEK 66 and WEEK 56. They were "The golden Child" and "Our Daily Bread".

Character 20-Carrying the Gumbo

2011-05-16T14:29:00.001-07:00

Water Writes Mural-Oakland, Ca

2011-05-12T11:15:00.000-07:00

This mural was spear headed by the Estria Foundation and involved the collective painting, volunteering, and assistance of over 80 people. I have been helping by painting people and birds, beavers, water, and many other things while standing on lifts 40-50 ft up in the air (scared as hell-real talk!). But ultimately extremely proud to participate and be a part of such a monumental piece of Oakland's new history and Estria foundations message of art+ knowledge spreading + and information. One of the reasons that this city got it's name is because of the immense amounts of natural streams, rivers, and small bodies of water that were once so prominent. That is why there are and were so many trees and so much greenery. on this project you have tons of talented writers and artists out there.But which of them is giving you style and substance? Peep the youth, hella bay legends, my crew, and folks who are not only painting, but learning. Check out the links below on the wall. Much love and light.

The Oakland Unveiling:
Thursday, May 19 · 4:00pm - 7:00pm
Parking Lot @ 21st Broadway. Oakalnd, CA

DJ Agana. DJ Baby Tiger.
BRWN BFLO.
HOPIE.

Arts+Crafts with Recycled Materials.

Photo Booth with finished Mural.

More Performers & Lots of Love

COLORLINES Article on the wall.

Positive Wall Affirmation "ENERGY"

2011-05-10T12:08:00.000-07:00

Had a lot of fun painting this. Whats it for? The little space in your heart, right next to your desk. What did I use? An old wooden frame, some paint, and a lot of smiles. If you dig it, please spread the love. Positive energy to you....

ENERGY

Typography 10-Nina Simone

2011-05-09T00:06:00.000-07:00

Love me some Nina, have you heard her version of "here comes the sun"? This is another letter from my Jazz series.

Crank Boots x East Bay Edibles x BB Vol.1

2011-05-05T10:45:00.000-07:00

The article is out! This past month I wrote and illustrated a short piece about Cranky Boots Pops. for East Bay Edibles magazine. EBE is a magazine about East Bay (Bay Area) food companies, restaurants, farms, sustainable practices, chef's, local food artisans like Amanda and Aland, and so much more. I first read this magazine about a year and a half ago and I've been wanting to contribute to it artistically since then.

Cranky boots was a perfect fit. Not only to contribute to the magazine, but to help spread the word about the delicious popsicles they make. First, I interviewed them for the coming Zine "BB Vol. 1" and asked them some questions about how they stay healthy. Then, I wrote an article based on more questions, their feedback, and that of the editor. Check out some of the questions that didnt make the magazine, but will end up in "BB Vol.1" very soon. If you'll recall, i did some hand written artwork for one of their events last year. Big shout out to Aland and Amanda for letting me write about their efforts and draw their faces. And a big shout out to Cheryl the editor of East Bay Edibles, which is an international magazine with over 70 participating cities.

What was your goal or mission with CBP when you first started and how has it
changed?Our goal has always been to build and maintain community. The ways we build and help maintain community are vast and various, but the goal won't ever change. Our mission is to bring some joyous essence of summer nostalgia to everyday folks, while at the same time doing our part to bring about social justice and awareness.

What’s in these popsicles?
Whole organic fruit, minimal sugar, a small amount of water, a whole lot of soul, and love.

Why do you use local or organic ingredients?
It’ s important for us to support not only our community, but the Earth's health. The closer we do things to home, the more accountable we are to not only our environment but to the people of our community.

Where do you sell your product? Any stores?
We mostly sell at community festivals. This year, we'll be at Doof-a-palooza, San Francisco's Gay Pride Parade, and a bunch of other places like Mandela Foods Cooperative in West Oakland. We’re working on selling them in a couple of local coffeehouses and bars around the East Bay, but nothing is solidified, yet.

How can people try your popsicles or get in contact with you?
Stay tuned to our blog. We're always talking about where we'll be and what we're doing. Our first festival event is Doof-a-palooza, which is in May, after that they can hit us up at the Gay Pride Parade in San Francisco.
http://crankybootspops.blogspot.com
http://twitter.com/crankyboots

April Love & Light Switches

2011-04-28T21:36:00.000-07:00

Here are the April joints, some more interesting handmade stuff coming soon because they're fun to make. Whats life with out fun?

Jazz Portrait 8-Wille Bobo

2011-04-27T00:50:00.001-07:00

Neck bones is one of my all time jams and if you didnt know, his son Eric is dope too!

Proud Dad Moment

2011-04-25T13:08:00.000-07:00

Yes we will little one! Some drawings my son did the other day.i always love his drawings, but this one surprised me!

Diabolical plan revealed, sort of

2011-04-25T00:00:00.000-07:00

So, I've been talking about this project with friends for long enough. Time to unleash a preview.The diabolical plan is taking shape....Stay tuned

"Our greatest glory is not in never falling, but in getting up every time we do"
-Confucius

More of the process

2011-04-24T19:37:00.000-07:00

I've had some obstacles I've gone through or around in the journey to publishing my first Children's Book recently. Mostly I sent out a lot of work, got some responses and offers back, some rejections too. Also i joined the Society of Children's Book Writers and Illustrators. Through there I was able to meet some folks in the biz. The more I try, the more clues I pick up. Thought you'd appreciate seeing a page that i sent out...This is a scene from my book..It's about the journey to a healthy food practice! The journey of publishing is full of struggle, but we as creatives must never give up.Ever.

Run Away, Roo, Sunday kind of love

2011-04-21T22:49:00.000-07:00

"Woke up and realized I was free...to be anything if it was in integrity with what I dream"

Muphoric Sounds 15

2011-04-20T19:29:00.000-07:00

One of my favorite instrumental jams comes from "Thee Midniters" from East Los. The first time I heard it was in the film Mi Vida Loca as a cover song. Check it out

Character 19

2011-04-19T10:21:00.001-07:00

Your description of what he's doing goes here _______.

Short story 4

2011-04-18T13:04:00.000-07:00

Binghi attended Montego Bay Elementary school on 4th street. It was the year 2086. He was eleven years old now, and coming into his abilities. While waiting for his Papa to cook coconut lamb stew he decided to practice the "balancing" lesson from his fourth period mental physics class. He had already finished his homework, and changed into his playing clothes on the rug. If he could keep the papaya from falling this time, maybe he could finally impress the shy girl from Morocco.....

Inspiration 8

2011-04-11T11:45:00.000-07:00

Inspiring people/things. Georgina Anne Muldrow-Singer, composer. "Water Writes" murals+water+Estria Foundation, Zetta Elliott-Author/Activist"A Wish After Midnight", The Akonadi Foundation-for supporting artists!East Bay Edibles-I have a piece in the next issue,"Black Science Fiction Society",Nathalie Mvondo's "Multiculturalism Rocks" Blog-dope resources, super down to earth sister! JDavey-just listen. Movement Ink, design company by brother Rene Quinones. Art of Tatsuyuki Tanaka-dope animator/illustrator. Ashay By The Bay- childrens books w/ a focus on African American kids. Amara Tabor Smith-Our Daily bread+"Deep Waters", super dope performing artists! Mshindo Kuumba, incredible illustrator/comics artist."Reading in Color", blog about YA novels+ focus on people of color. Tambien La LLuvia-great film w/Gael Garcia Bernal. And "Art of Living" meditation/yoga/breathing course from super humble folks.Thats all folks...

Typography 9-Robert Glasper

2011-04-06T23:56:00.001-07:00

R is for Robert Glasper and FTB is one of the first joints that introduced me to Robert's work. The brotha plays piano and he's dope!!

Jazz Portrait 7-Meshell Ndegeocello

2011-04-04T12:01:00.000-07:00

Papillon and Love Song #3 are two of my favorites from this incredibly prolific, talented, and beautiful lady. Meshell writes, sings, and arranges, but she plays the hell out of the Bass!

My Teaching/Learning Memories

2011-03-29T22:21:00.000-07:00

I started teaching in 2002 I believe. As a volunteer first, then as a paid instructor. It was two of my high school teachers, Mr. Hodari Davis and Ms Julia Luna that gave me my first shot. I haven't really stopped teaching since then, I've taken breaks though. I've taught all over the Bay Area (Richmond, Pinole, Berkeley, Oakland, SF, Palo Alto, San Rafael)and when i moved to Brooklyn NY I had the chance to teach in Brooklyn, Manhattan, and Queens. Working with Trust Your Struggle (amazing educators/artists) Ive done workshops in other states too like Connecticut, Massachusetts, Arizona, and more I'm forgetting.

I've worked with small classes and small organizations, and huge classrooms and huge organizations. All different races and ages. Beautiful classrooms and stuffy basements. Thousands of kids, so many lessons learned from each of them. All the energy, frustration, curiosity,rebelliousness, slang, and wisdom they give when you share time with them has made me who I am. Its made me a better artist, a better man, and a better father. Don't get me wrong there have been some kids I've had to exercise super patience with. But those were usually the ones who needed to feel acceptance and love the most.

In the past two years I've pulled back from teaching greatly.I've worked with some really great teachers, artists, and coordinators.But none of them could mask the feeling that I was not reaching my students. There are times when I wished I could take my kids out of the school completely. Sometimes the system in which we as educators are working in is archaic, brutal, toxic, and poisonous. The kids are hyper intelligent, and they sense it. Sometimes I get the feeling that they've seen me the same way I see the system of public education. One which used to have countless classes in cooking, musical instrumentation, and art. All of them were gutted, cut, or eliminated from East Oakland to the South Bronx. Why? When you take away a human's ability to express themselves a whole array of shit happens to them psychologically and culturally. Mix that with outright lies about our history and who we are, and you've got a bomb ready to explode.

Anyway, I won't go into a deep discussion about the factory of public education or how the US Government views its working class, poor, shit even some middle class people. It's a forever changing puzzle. Sometimes obvious, and completely mind boggling at others. What i will say is this. After turning down several offers to teach last year, I'm taking up my dry erase marker and hand written agenda's again. Not only that, I would like to work with some educators who are down to flip the script. Check out some of these memories from teaching the babies, mine and yours. Much respect to all the educators out there. Don't matter if you wear sneakers or a tie, you are touching someone's life when you teach what you know, and allow them to do the same to you. Love and light.

March Love and light Switches-RBG

2011-03-29T13:55:00.000-07:00

I called this month's Light Switches"RBG", just because of the colors I felt like using on it. For folks in the U.S. and abroad, if you know of a local store that would sell hand made items like these in your city, PLEASE hit me up. My Light Switches are currently at RPS Collective (Oakland) and Art Artillery Gallery (SF).