sherrisdigitalsketchbook

Towson Metals and Jewelry Club Sale

2009-12-08T23:15:00.001-08:00

The Towson University Metals and Jewelry Club Holiday Sale in the Center for the Fine Arts this past week was a success as always!

Thanks to everyone that came out and supported us!

Below are my earrings, I promise to photograph them properly soon.

For all of those that have wondered where I've been...

2009-10-21T15:06:00.001-07:00

For everyone that's been wondering where I have been and why I'm not posting here's the explanation.

I went to Canada before school started.

It was fabulous and I think I may need to move there permanently.

And then school started....

I'm currently working on my honors thesis and am very busy,
I've decided to set up a separate blog for honors related business.

If you care to have a look it's
www.sherrishawver.wordpress.com

Dentist.....

2009-10-21T15:03:00.000-07:00

So, Is it weird that every time I go to the dentist all I can think about is what kind of tools do they have and what do they do with the old ones?
I wonder if they would miss that one with the shiny pointy end?

Toxic Mushrooms.

2009-10-21T14:59:00.001-07:00

I saw these growing in my yard a while back.
Funny but I don't remember having ever seen these before but I may need to incorporate some sort of toxic mushrooms into my work somewhere.

Great quotes from a Good book

2009-09-15T17:50:00.000-07:00

I just finished reading Do Good Design by David B. Berman and it was fantastic.
Generally the "green" design reading materials tend to put me to sleep about half way through but this book is not only well written but interesting. I was compelled to stay up until 2am to finish it. I would recommend taking the day or two to give this book a go, it will be worth it.

Here are some of the quotes from the book that stood out:

"But rather than sharing our cycles of style, consumption and chemical addictions, designers can use their professional power, persuasive skills and wisdom to help distribute ideas that the world really needs" David B. Berman

"Imagine again a society's potential where the largest signs, the cleverest ads, the most prominent messages promote healthy behaviors" David B. Berman

"Design creates culture. Culture shapes values. Values determine the future. Design is therefore responsible for the world our children will live in" R. L. Peters

"We can't solve problems by using the same kind of thinking we used when we created them"
A. Einstein

"The next war will determine not what is right but what is left" H. Lubalin

Join the revolution:
www.davidberman.com/dogood

Building a Forge

2009-09-07T12:13:00.000-07:00

I am investigating the possibilities of building a forge.
Ellen Durkan was kind enough to let me take a look at her set-up.
This is the forge she built.

I was also amused to find out that the Blacksmithing Guild of Maryland is in my hometown so coal pickup wouldn't require much effort.

As a side note, while my parents are surprisingly accepting of my ambitions to build a forge in the backyard, they do not exactly respect the art form.
This is what my father thinks of my sculpture:
Yes, that is a wooden duck hanging from my ART.
This was after I told him in no uncertain words he COULD NOT put a bird feeder or wind chime on it.

Blackmithing: Week 2 at Peter Valley

2009-07-17T14:21:00.000-07:00

The Blacksmithing Studio at Peter's Valley, run by the fabulous Dick Sargent, who is if you didn't know, the man simply for tolerating girls in his studio and encouraging them to smash stuff.

Bill Brown the instructor for Into the Mystery, an introductory class in blacksmithing and sculpture.

Bill Showing us different methods using the power hammer.
Bill also encouraged much smashing.

I really love the power hammer.

My Forge, all lit and ready to go.
I am a master fire starter apparently.

Did I mention how much I loved the power hammer?

Me and my trusty left handed forge. (it's a joke, it's not really left handed)
There is nothing like the smell of burning coal in the morning.
Seriously.

My first sculptures. :)

A bracelet and twisted form of undetermined use.

Moving Metal @ Peters Valley

2009-06-19T08:16:00.000-07:00

Moving Metal with Joe Muench at Peters Valley this summer.

These are some of the forms he created. I found the whole experience to be amazing. I loved Peters Valley and I loved hammering the crap out of metal to make these crazy 3D forms!

This is Norman. He and Joe had a "raise off".
Norman raised old school.
Norman is 86? 96? I thought he was going to have a heart attack but thankfully he didn't.

Norman is the man.

This is Joe soldering.
Too bad I missed the shot of the torus falling of the soldering block and almost burning us. Needless to say: good times!

The finished torus.

Key Seams can be appealing when done correctly contrary to my previous opinion on them.

Joe makes a lot, and I mean A LOT, of his own tools including hammers (we made a nylon hammer while there) scrapers and stakes.

I cannot express to you how many times I whacked myself with a hammer this week but it was worth it, and after Joe "re-educated" me on how to hammer I only managed minor bruising.

He even "re-educated" some of us on proper binding methods.

These are more of his hand made hammers and stakes that are tailored for each individual form they are used to create.

I would post pictures of my samples but they are no where near as nice as Joes demos that you see in the pictures. I did manage to finish my spiculum which looks damn good if I do say so myself.

I had a fabulous time the first week at Peters Valley with Joe. He was a great teacher and an all around nice guy.

Thanks Joe!

PMA's Armor Exhib.

2009-05-26T15:51:00.000-07:00

PMA'S Arms and Armament exhibition.

SWORDS! or eppes. Whatever.

GUNS! or pistols I guess.

This reminded me of the beetle collar's
overlapping plates.

I especially liked these shapes.

This would make a great neck piece!!!

GIANT STUFFED HORSE! Yep, giant stuffed horse.

The etching on the body armor was insanely complex.
Wish I had my actual camera on me but these shots arn't too bad for a camera phone at night.

Teeth Jewelry by Street Anatomy

2009-05-25T14:08:00.000-07:00

Street Anatomy
by Jenny Drucker

Ceramic Tooth Fairy Series, Untitled Necklace

Slipcast Porcelain, with silver catch and strung on hair

Slip cast Porcelain with Silver Ring Shank

I Love Carrotbox.

2009-04-22T17:40:00.000-07:00

In my quest for insect related jewelry design I found some really great work on carrotbox. Everyone should check out the site in their abundant spare time.
The bottom image is work from Elizabeth Goluch.
Check out Aaron Sault's Articulating Talon Ring and his rings with mammal hair.

Bibliography for ObamaArt

2009-03-13T11:22:00.001-07:00

Bibliography for Jewelry II

Cox, Patricia, Maggie McCormick Gordon. American Quilt Classics. Collins and Brown, 2001.

Eddy, Celia. The Quilter’s Recipe Book. Quarto Inc, 2005.

Fitzpatric Wyatt, Nancy, Leisure Arts Presents Big Book of Best-Loved Quilt Patterns. Oxmoor House Inc, 2002.

Tracy, Kathleen. Prairie Children and Their Quilts. Maringale Company, Washington, 2006.

Obama Inauguration and Washington Memorial photographs:

cyanatrendland.com
thecaucus.blogs.nytimes.com
www.phys.ufl.edu
fineartamerica.com
thebruceblog.wordpress.com
www.treehugger.com
www.windycityart.com
www.media-2.web.britannica.com
www.storywise.com
nsmp.wr.usgs.gov

Websites: The good, bad and ugly.

2009-02-17T19:45:00.000-08:00

While these websites are great for material and information I often wonder who was in charge of the design. While many would argue that they are clean and organized, I find myself wishing for more eye popping zing.
http://www.fastcompany.com
http://www.good.is/

Megan Auman does clean without being boring:
http://www.meganauman.com

And Annie's and Marcel Wander's sites are always fun to look at:
http://www.imogene.org
http://www.marcelwanders.com

I always find I am more drawn to stay and look at websites with black backgrounds. I would think many would argue this but black is more compelling to me, especially if they have a lot of pictures posted:
http://18kt.wordpress.com

Organized and upfront with photographs of work makes me happy.
http://www.baharal-gnida.com

And as much as I love Bruce Metcalf's work. Gray backgrounds are not pleasant. Period.
http://www.brucemetcalf.com
Sorry Doug.
http://www.dougbucci.com

There is something to be said for Flash movies as well. While this website isn't drop dead gorgeous it does look inviting with the enlarging images:
http://www.emmaville.com

My favorite :)
http://christianvsiriano.com
He can pull of gray and make it fierce.

DesignVend/ Social SnACTS.

2008-12-16T19:08:00.000-08:00

DesignVend: Social SnACTS at TU Center for the Arts

The final collaborative efforts of the Social Design and Entrepreneurship class.

Jenn and I sold our Trash Bling.
Amazingly I don't think any of us fell that were rollerskating.
I'm not sure about the ones that were just walking. I'll get back to you.

Rollerskates+70 Vending Machine=Pigtails Required.

I had my DWI Awareness coasters for sale.

The Trash Bling.

<-It's for socially aware rockstars like us.

Jaque making rollerskates for her sneaks since she couldn't rollerskate around with us, we love you Jaque!
Staples+Cardboard Wheels=Dedication.

Soup Time.

Social Design Project Two Photos

2008-12-16T19:00:00.000-08:00

My final pins for social design project two.
This is the Power on/off flashing pin.
It flashes red and green.

This is a photograph of my pro-Hydrogen Pin.
It lights up green.

Vessel Project

2008-12-16T18:44:00.000-08:00

Vessel Project:
Final Locket/Vessel.

While the hinge isn't perfect I'm certain that with a sterling version with a flange it should be much better.

Thank You Note - Similiar Light

2008-12-08T08:13:00.000-08:00

This is the piece I passed in Philly and thought of Taylor's Thank You trees.

Trash Bling Casting and Burning Plastics!

2008-12-02T16:38:00.000-08:00

Today Jenn and I cast more trash into gem stones with PVA and Envirotec resin. We added orange peel and wrappers from soda bottles and granola bars to our collection.

We also melted some delightful plastics in a small, poorly ventilated room! Who needs brain cells anyway. Overrated.
I did use rubber gloves if that counts for anything.
I will say that my favorite thus far is the shrunken Ramen wrappers. Now we are focusing on sterling and resin prong settings.

Researching Early 20th Century Jewelry

2008-12-02T16:20:00.000-08:00

So research can be fun.
I was looking in the giant stash of grandma's ol' lady jewelry that my mom was compelled to keep for some giant bling rings that I could use for social design.
There was some interesting finds. And yes, I got my mom to do the rock star pose in the spirit of the moment.
Little does she know this is now on the internet.

Apparently 50's-80's designers really didn't look at the overall picture before putting something in mass production.
I'm not going to say what I believe this to resemble but I think you get the picture.

Sarah Coventry apparently outfitted Count Dracula.

And for future reference a pack of three hair nets were 39 cents back in the day.
What in the world do you need a hair net for anyway?

Droog list for Social Design

2008-12-02T04:12:00.000-08:00

List of trash to cast:

Paper, Tissue/Brown Bag/Paper Towel
Coffee Grounds
Coffee Filters
Tea Bags
Gum Wrappers
Food Wrappers
Newspaper Bags

Organics:
Strawberry Tops
Banana Peels
Orange Rinds

Garbage to Bling

2008-12-01T17:05:00.000-08:00

The garbage bling inspiration piece and original wax maquette.

The die made to compress trash into the 'bling form'

Jenn being meticulous in measuring for prong settings.

The first test casting of trash bling with pva and plastic.

After Action Review for Locket/Vessel Project

2008-11-28T12:28:00.000-08:00

After Action Review for Locket/Vessel Project.

What did you do well? Which actions and strategies led to success that you will continue to use?

My die was much better than the first project and everything worked out until the hinge location. The internal framing and overall locket was what I had wanted.

Which things did not work so well? These are areas to improve.

I would have liked more time, I wanted to make a copper maquette and then make the final in sterling but I ran out of time. I also didn't consider the location of the hinge relative to the design, on paper it worked fine opening on the side but in actuality the 'veins' overlapped. I had to move the hinge lower and thus had to make a smaller hinge without a flange because I had already cut the framing pieces. I'm also still not entirely sure why i couldn't replicate my volume on the original test pressing. I would have liked to have my texture but the piece looks complete without it as well.

What Ifs How could the project been more successful?
What are the best incarnations of the project?

I think the hinge and actual piece itself was well made. I would have liked to add a clasp and clasp for the chain. I think if I were to make a sterling version I would just need to leave a small flange for the hinge and it would improve the piece ten fold. I would in retrospect not spend an eternity sanding my metal prior to pressing because each step of the way it would just get scratched again. I spent way to much time finishing and filing only to have to go back and repair portions later.

The Mutter Museum

2008-11-23T06:30:00.000-08:00

First stop on my trip to Philly was the Mutter, a museum for medical science memorabilia and instructional models and specimens. If you can handle seeing a giant colon and bashed in baby heads you should check it out.

I enjoyed the thousand and one things extracted from throats. My favorite being a pin with "Perfect Attendance" on it. You can make 'em go to school but you can't make 'em smart.

I found some images from the museum.
These are from the new exhibit on lead.

Lead casting implements.

Lead stamps

Lead signet rings.

And this is just one of many creepy was models.

There is also a room full of organ pieces in formaldehyde, tres cool.
I do have to say that the room full of fetuses in glass jars did make me lose my appetite but you just can't stop looking at them.
I recommend going if you can handle this sort of thing.

2008-11-20T17:03:00.000-08:00

I saw these in Philly this past weekend while I was up there for the craft show and thought they would have been appropriate for my b-day. Instead there was a blazing inferno that almost set my hair on fire. Thanks Mom.

And in other news:
In the great debate over Geno's
vs. Pat's I vote Pat's for the
best cheese steak in Philly.

Biology Can Be Fun

2008-11-20T16:48:00.000-08:00

...but only when dead things are involved.

This is a fetal pig, bat, frog and crayfish. Or was.

After Action Review for Social Design Project 2

2008-11-20T04:12:00.000-08:00

After Action Review for Social Design Project 2

Sustains What did you do well? Which actions and strategies led to success that
you will continue to use?

I spent a lot of time researching my chosen topic of clean energy including hydrogen, wind and solar power. I also believe the finished product was well executed.

Improves Which things did not work so well? These are areas to improve.
Evaluate strategies and approaches that you used either consciously or unconsciously.

I would have liked to spend more time on the actual making of the pins as well as prototyping. My designs worked in theory but some translated poorly to the 3d object. I would also have revised the scale of the pieces had I been able to receive the LED lights sooner to know their actual size.

What Ifs How could the project been more successful?
What are the best incarnations of the project?

I really wish I could have acquired some solar paint to experiment with. I think the power button was the best graphically however the hydrogen pin was the best fabrication. I would also have liked to take photographs of the pieces on the body. The pin/button format worked well in my opinion as a method to promote clean energy and bring awareness of alternative energy choices; I just think that the actually symbol needs refining so it's more obvious to the viewer.

Ring Designs That Inspire

2008-11-13T16:27:00.000-08:00

Some pictures of interesting rings and fun ideas.
They are "cute" without making me want to kill myself.

These are images of rings off of the website:
http://www.thisnext.com

For all you single ladies out there...

Honestly, this is my favorite.
Maybe deep down Sherri is a minimalist after all.
Just don't give me any of that paint splatter crap.

I thought the Braille rings were fun.

While I hate giant gemstones I like the wire usage.

I like the design, hate the texture.
But then again we've established that all of my work is "clean".
In fact, if I hear the word clean used again in crit I may have to go postal. I'm concerned that that is the only thing people have to say as a compliment on my work. Clean. grr.

History of Ring Design Research

2008-11-13T14:33:00.000-08:00

Here for your viewing pleasure is a compilation of different rings and their uses through out history. The next project will be to make an experimental ring using unorthodox design and application. The first step is to identify both ancient and current ring design.

Roman ring circa 1st-3rd century AD

http://www.ancientresource.com/lots/ancient_jewelry/jewelry_rings.html

Roman Rings
" Small stones with engraved designs and sometimes inscriptions were used widely in the ancient world. At times used for personal decoration, they were also used as amulets, or as seals."

http://www.usc.edu/dept/LAS/wsrp/educational_site/uscarc/seals.shtml

Roman pierced gold ring.

Hinged ring, 2nd–1st century B.C.; Hellenistic
Greek
Gold with garnet
http://www.metmuseum.org/TOAH/hd/hjew/ho_2005.278.htm

The Claddagh Celtic ring.
This ring has many origins and folklore stories associated with it. This site list all of them if you care to know. The Claddagh has been a traditional Irish wedding band since approximately the 17th century and also has connotations attributed to it depending on how the wearing orients the ring.

And of course everyone knows about the current trend of engagement rings and wedding bands.
Many wedding bands now are being inscribed and decorative in nature but the classic use of a set diamond in the engagement ring still stands as the most prominent design.

The Marquis diamond setting.

The fabulous trend of Mood Rings from the delightful 1970's.
(shudder)

Contemporary work from Phil Carrizzi.

Works by Salima Thakker

Organic ring design by Lori Swartz

A Rapid-prototyped ring. Rapid prototyping or laser printing now allows for models to be made for casting or conceptual work to be made in 3d.

More R & D

2008-11-12T18:17:00.000-08:00

I've been browsing for trash/upcycled jewelry and so far nothing very exciting.
Most of the supposed trash jewelry is just what I would term ephemera and more from a crafter-scrapbooker point of view.

This is a Recycled Magazine Cuff

These first three are from a website for Eco-Artware.
http://www.eco-artware.com/catalog/bracelets.php

A Subway Token Bracelet

While fun, not really what I had in mind when I went looking for trash/garbage incorporated into jewelry.

Vinyl Record Cuff

This is Trash Jewelry by James Jensen, a dutch artist.
I still get the impression of found objects more than trash.

Upcycled Products:

2008-11-12T14:39:00.000-08:00

Upcycled Products:

Yogurt container bracelets
on Etsy

http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=11220116

http://www.washingtoncitypaper.com/blogs/craftybastards/category/upcycling/

Baby shoes
Cigarette Lighter Rings
and
cassette wallets/purses
from Crafty Bastards

Social Design Final Project: R & D

2008-11-12T14:18:00.000-08:00

Jenn and I have decided to use up cycling to create compressed refuse jewelery. I'm thinking organic material as well as wrapping/packaging components pressed or coated to form giant bling rings. Like garbage ring-pops without the licking, unless you're very brave.
I found an intriguing new idea I heard about from a friend about compressed heather being formed, sliced and polished. This website has these so-called heather gems for sale
http://www.twenga.co.uk/dir-Jewellery,Pendants-and-medallions,Celtic-pendant/Colour-Purple-3-18833
but this site actually explains the process:
http://www.family-crests.com/index.asp?PageAction=VIEWCATS&Category=280
The result is similar to most agates but has a Celtic/Scottish ethnicity because of the use of heather.

Locket: Process Shots

2008-11-08T17:49:00.000-08:00

Here is how I want to orient my locket to open.
It is my hope that this actually works. My hinge may need to be microscopic.
Pray for me.

This photo shows how far I got on Friday. I soldered my internal framing and filed. and filed. and fiiiiiiiled.
At present my locket is super glued and waiting on a hinge seat to be filed.
I am terrified.

Teeth Update

2008-11-08T17:39:00.000-08:00

Here's an update of the teeth situation. For all of you that missed out on the cow teeth, browse earlier posts from last spring.
I found that working them raw was kinda eww so I left these hanging in the woods all summer.

They look much cleaner.
I'm helping to feed birds and whatever is munching on these guys and cleaning my cow teeth at the same time.
I'll let you know once I've decided the final purpose my teeth shall serve.
Look out Jan, senior project is coming!

DWI Simulator

2008-11-06T16:13:00.000-08:00

Here are the pictures from the DWI simulator at TU.
I thought this was well timed with my DWI Awareness Project.

It starts at BAC zero and goes up to BAC 11 simulating the impairment of alcohol.
I crashed into a mini van.

(It's harder than it looks.)

Thanks to Jacqui for taking the fab photos and laughing at our expense.

Here is Jenn kicking some driving while under the influence butt.

She made it all the way to BAC 11 without crashing.
I only made it to around 6.

This is a shot of us with our DWI tickets.
There's nothing like a coffin at social events to really brighten up the mood.

My Halloween.

2008-11-01T04:03:00.000-07:00

So for my Halloween, Me and my gun toting friend (Who is in no way associated with any police force near by that would question his actions) decided to go shoot my Wreck this Journal.

This is forensic science at it's best. Cardboard, wet wash cloth, newspaper and 2x4 is there to catch the bullet.

He aims.

He fires and scares the hell outta me so I jumped.

And here my friends is my now bullet-ridden Wreck this Journal and the spent bullet. He was upset he didn't hit the bullseye. He states there was a breeze...and a dog barked in the background. And the log rolled.....ect.
Hooray gun powder.

Get WIRED

2008-10-29T08:58:00.000-07:00

So far I've been able to read my new issues of both Wired and Good Magazine. I am really impressed with Wired, especially this issue on new products, food production and green energy, and all the cool gadgets discussed (even if Wired condemns blogger as Old Skool to Twitter)
You should check it out, it's a great deal less than most of the mags I subscribe to, it's only 10 bucks for 12 issues. Can't beat it.
If not check out the website. The how to google smarter/ ie wiki article is interesting and social designers should read about hydro-energy in the article below. I believe Jan brought up hydrokinetic generators in class.
http://www.wired.com/
http://blog.wired.com/wiredscience/2008/10/hidden-vortex-i.html

Harnessing The Power of The Sun

2008-10-28T19:00:00.001-07:00

Ok, so I've decided that Solar Paint is not happening. I also have come to the conclusion that despite attempts at reassembling calculator parts, alas they are never going to go back to a functioning state. I am not an engineer. Destruction I can do. Rebuilding not so much.
I have purchased some phosphorescent paint in acrylic and latex for automobiles. I also found this ridiculous and convenient site to order every kind of flashing LED known to man. Don't laugh, they have a red to green LED. Virtually impossible to find!
www.FlashingBlinkyLights.com
They should be here in time to light up my solar, wind and hydrogen power symbols. I hope.

Bee Hives = Good

2008-10-28T04:06:00.000-07:00

These = BAD.
That is all.

Progress For Jewelry III

2008-10-28T03:53:00.000-07:00

I am almost finished filing my die to perfection. I will take it through a trial run today and see if I need another layer.

My Hinge prior to soldering. In this picture you can see my attempt at lining up the knuckles on a steel pin and making sure they are straight.

The Search for Solar Power

2008-10-28T03:48:00.001-07:00

Step One: Destroy a calculator.
Step Two: Arrive at the fact that even though you now have a solar panel, you have no knowledge of how to wire it to a LED, if it has enough power to light said LED or the ability to actually do so.
Step Three: Beat with Hammer.

Interesting 2nd Life/Maple Story News

2008-10-23T16:49:00.000-07:00

Everyone on Second Life should check this out. It gave me a laugh.

Online divorcee jailed after killing virtual hubby:

http://news.yahoo.com/s/ap/20081023/ap_on_re_as/as_japan_avatar_murder

Never Blog When Angry

2008-10-20T13:13:00.000-07:00

Apparently every other person on the planet is sick today.
I just spent 3 and a half hours waiting for one prescription. This is after having spent 60 bucks for a doctor to tell me I'm sick. I had to wait an hour for that ingenious diagnosis.
So, long story short all I have accomplished today is:
a. I found a one dollar calculator to dissect.
b. I purchased some phosphorescent paint as back-up. (which is technically solar powered)
c. Picked up the book: How to Make Almost Everything at the library.
d. Lost all faith in the health care system.

Interesting Solar Powered Items From ETSY

2008-10-19T17:06:00.000-07:00

A solar powered bug-bot
http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?ref=sr_gallery_1&listing_id=15297164

And a light up happy face.
http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?ref=sr_gallery_8&listing_id=13246977

Not a whole lot on that horizon with good design and solar power in my opinion.

Solar Powered Toothbrush

2008-10-18T18:17:00.001-07:00

I came across some solar powered toothbrushes in my investigation of solar energy. I'm hoping that small scale solar panels are within my reach for my project.

This was one version found at Gizmodo.
This site appears to be a site for gadgets and cool items.
They have everything from WiFi detecting sneakers to video eye wear.
http://gizmodo.com/gadgets/gadgets/solar-powered-toothbrush-028046.php

I'm a little concerned about how lazy one has to be to have some of the items I came across. I mean really, if you're going to make a solar powered item, why would you make a toothbrush? The movement of your hand up and down on your teeth is just too taxing? Sigh.

Mutter Museum

2008-10-18T18:03:00.000-07:00

I absolutely must go to the Mutter Museum in Philly.
It sounds like a place I need to see.
http://www.collphyphil.org/mutter.asp

Their treasures include:
-The plaster cast of the torso of world-famous Siamese Twins, Chang & Eng, and their conjoined livers
-Joseph Hyrtl's collection of skulls
- Collection of 2,000 objects extracted from people's throats
- Cancerous growth removed from President Grover Cleveland
- Preserved body of the "Soap Lady"

"Opening on October 27, 2008, The Devouring Element: Lead’s Impact on Health examines changing notions of the utility and danger of lead and human health from classical times until the present."

Let me know if you would care to join me on a jaunt to see revolting scientific marvels!

Invention Nation on SCI Channel

2008-10-17T10:41:00.000-07:00

For my Design and Social Entrepreneurship class I am working with the idea of creating wearable objects promoting clean energy.

In my ramblings throughout different media I uncovered a great episode of
Invention Nation, a television show on the Science Channel,
where the guys ride around in search of great innovative design:
all from a van that runs on used cooking oil.

http://science.discovery.com/videos/invention-nation-biodiesel.html

The episode explains a lot about the making and use of biodiesel.
There is also a video online about solar panels and how to make them.
Hopefully, I can find someone with internet that I can watch them on.
Just an FYI Satellite Internet is TERRIBLE.
http://science.discovery.com/videos/invention-nation-solar-panels.html

Image from:
www.greenoptimistic.com

Top Design on Bravo

2008-10-17T07:28:00.000-07:00

If you haven't become addicted to Top Design then you must start watching it on Bravo!
http://www.bravotv.com/Top_Design/season/2/episodes/index.php?episode=7

Here are some examples of the latest challenge.
Room design for the future.
Everything from space-age to floating pods.

Some were successful.
Some had silly fans on the walls.
Some were whimsical.
Some were a little frightening.

Although I do have to say Eddie won quote of the day on this episode...
In summary he said that his creation was the Golden Clone.
but that ' no offense, but sometimes two good looking people end up with totally busted kids'
Truth. Too bad your design is a little busted as well.

Modern? If you say so.
I was unaware IKEA+pink+safari=next millennium.
I'll be sure to get my Range Rover ready for hunting big game. There's nothing like the ecologically friendly future of slaughtering lions, tigers and zebra for decoration.

Is science better than art at TU?

2008-10-17T06:59:00.000-07:00

I ask, is the science department any more worthy than the art department?
Why is it that after semesters of 'green' projects, recycling, upcycling and social design I see this forward thinking trash can over in Smith?

I want to say this was called an octocycle: it has a little hatch on top for cans and is made of a corrugated material. I can't see to find them online but I do remember the side saying it was new/in development. I'll let everyone know once I track down the source.
We should have these!!!

Gorilla Tactics at Bob Evans?

2008-10-17T06:52:00.000-07:00

I thought this was really fun.
It reminded me of the gorilla tactics of our social design project. Even though the restaurant obviously produced these stickers I believe someone should make them and post them every where.

This sticker on bathroom mirrors tells customers that they should be washing their hands for 20 seconds and that is equivalent to one whole verse of 'Old MacDonald'.
So everyone, the next time I'm in the restroom I want to hear everyone humming a little eieio!

Bibliography for Social Design Project 2

2008-10-15T18:40:00.000-07:00

Bibliography for Social Design Project 2

http://gizmodo.com/gadgets/gadgets/solar-powered-toothbrush-028046.php
(Solar powered teeth cleaning utensils)

"Carbon's New Math" Bill McKibben. National Geographic Magazine. October 2007. 33-37
(article on how to deal with global warming)

"Green Dreams" Joel K. Bourne Jr. National Geographic Magazine. October 2007. 38-57
(article on biodiesel and alt. fuels.)

http://www.inhabitat.com/
(article on solar energy and so much more. Great Site!)

http://www.nwf.org/polarbear/
(National Wildlife Federation)
https://online.nwf.org/site/SPageServer?pagename=ClimateAction
...and what they support for energy options.

http://www1.eere.energy.gov/hydrogenandfuelcells/production/
(US Dept. of Energy)
http://www1.eere.energy.gov/hydrogenandfuelcells/tech_validation/
...and the downside to hydrogen technology at present :(

http://www.hydrogen.energy.gov/production.html

http://www.stopglobalwarming.org/sgw_feature.asp?id=10
(Leonardo and global warming, link to An Inconvenient Truth with Al Gore)

http://clean-air.org/
(Link to NASA Scientist Dr. James Hansen's writing on connecting the scientific dots.)

http://www.hydrogenenergy.com/
(Joint collaboration of BP and Rio Tinto)

Last Day of Grinding Fun :(

2008-10-11T08:17:00.000-07:00

Friday was the last day of our internship with Ken and Julie Girardini.
I am sad.

We finished our clocks though and I'm happy they are all done!

Ken gave us a demo on making jury shots.
Here are two that we worked on.
Hopefully I can work with them again, perhaps at ACC.
The experience was so wonderful, I'm going to miss them!

Project Runway

2008-10-10T18:57:00.000-07:00

It's down to the finale people. I think we all know who we want to win and who we hope has a serious wardrobe malfunction. Frankly, I hope her head blows up and takes her little retro dresses with her.

Check out the reunion show ProjectRungay has made up. It's Fabilicious.
http://projectrungay.blogspot.com/

(Being sick isn't to bad when there's bitchiness abound to entertain me!)

After Action Review for Social Design Issue One

2008-10-10T18:44:00.000-07:00

After Action Review for Social Design Issue One

Sustains What did you do well? Which actions and strategies led to success that
you will continue to use?
I was very pleased with the results of Gocco'ing the coasters. I want to investigate a double or triple process with this. I also likes the guerrilla fun of the parking space.

Improves Which things did not work so well? These are areas to improve.
I would like to have been able to place the parking space in a bar/restaurant location but that was unlikely to happen without a slew of issues.

What Ifs How could the project been more successful?
Had I had more time I would have re-designed the coasters to have the black and yellow background. I would also have placed the parking space in a public parking lot and ran away.

I am currently talking to a dispatcher at a semi-local taxi cab company about sponsoring my coasters with their information on the backside. They are based out of Balt. County and seem really all for my project. Hopefully there will be more to come on that!

Sundance Channel Makes Me Happy

2008-10-10T17:57:00.000-07:00

So, I figured out how to make my blog come back after playing around while home sick. I'm very pleased because I was quite close to a nervous breakdown over it being awol.
While home lazing about and feeling terrible I got a chance to watch some Sundance channel.
I think everyone should check out the new show Iconoclasts as it has some episodes relevant to our social design class. I was hesitant to watch at first because I'm not a huge Tommy Hilfiger fan and he created the series. The first episode I watched was Quentin Tarantino and Fiona Apple. While Tarantino is fun to watch Fiona had a despondent look of boredom the whole episode.
In relation to social design, I watched an episode on Isabella Rossellini, actress/model known for the film Blue Velvet (which everyone should see) and Dean Kamen. (Dean is the inventor/entrepreneur that created the Segway and ibot) Dean Kamen is the man. His house is built around a giant engine, it's powered by a wind turbine, his machine shop in his house is something to behold and finally he got Isabella Rossellini on a Segway. He has 2 helicopters and his own private jet, all because of a redesign he created in high school. The guy is amazing. Check it out!

Coasters in Action

2008-10-03T16:38:00.000-07:00

Here are the pictures of my installation for social design.
I finally had a chance to take them out to a bar/restaurant and put them into place. The first bar said no way and sent me packing.

I apologize for the grainy pics but the owner wasn't too thrilled with flash photography during happy hour.
He did however allow me to place them on the bar and even let his bartenders serve drinks on them.

I was surprised at the reactions however, a lot of people thought they were funny.

I guess the people smiling and laughing weren't driving home shitaki'd.

After a while most of the people in the bar had one under their beverage. Unfortunately many didn't even notice or if they did they didn't care.

Bibliography for Vessel Project.

2008-10-03T16:15:00.000-07:00

References for Vessel Project:

Subject Matter:

http://www.phobiaq.com/
http://www.phobia-fear-release.com/list-of-phobia-definitions.html

Vessels and Containers:

The Metalsmiths Book of Boxes and Lockets. Tim McCreight. Hand Books Press, 1999.

Miscellaneous Research:

http://madmuseum.org/SEE/upcoming%20exhibitions/Elegant%20Armor%20The%20Art%20of%20Jewelry.aspx
http://www.ganoksin.com/orchid/archive/
http://www.uncrate.com/men/gear/misc-gadgets/nanda-clocky/

NYC cont. Moma and more.

2008-10-01T22:05:00.000-07:00

Moma Design Store

The store had some items I recognized and some that I thought were a little bizarre. Here's a Tord Boonte lamp.

This was the front of MOMA.

Ont he way to the bus station;

Taking in a little architecture.

Window shopping.

With only 30 mins until departure:
we decided when one is on 5th Ave one should go into Saks.

Here's Megan looking adorable. I'm sure this hat probably cost too much for my budget but it was cute.

Now what in the holy hell is this?
Going for tea with Queen Elizabeth perhaps?
I look like the mad hatter.

This is way more snazzy.
Sunglasses and ski hats are goin g to be all the rage, just wait.

NYC cont. Felissimo

2008-10-01T19:11:00.000-07:00

After lunch Megan and I went back uptown to go to Felissimo gallery.

Felissimo had a wide array of products and innovative design from Japan.

I was surprised to see my fav pens that I pay 4 bucks a pop for were there and thus a Japanese design.

Here's the smallest mobile garden.
Everything in the 5 or 6 floors was really cute and fun.
I think most of Japan must be way more fun than Americans.

A giant ball of Hello Kitty fun.

Snazzy silverware. Funny but I don't remember seeing any cool chopsticks though. My personal pair at home is Hello Kitty. Everyone loves Hello Kitty.

I think it's a light. I'm not sure how I feel about this one ladies and gents. Looks like a glowing...well never mind about that. I don't think I like it.

Moving on to Union Square...

2008-10-01T16:11:00.000-07:00

Moving back up-town:

Union Square:
Farmers Market

National debt counter on the side of this building was interesting.
The design was actually very visually pleasing in a we're screwed kind of way.

We had a minute to look at shoes while waiting for a table.

I loved these boots.
The graffiti graphics are fab.

Yummy.

More Yummy.

We ate at Max Brenner. Everything there involves chocolate, even my spinach and goat cheese omelet.
Anywhere that has a vat of chocolate is good for me.

I love NY, they even have great design on their candy.

NYC cont.

2008-10-01T14:06:00.000-07:00

These are pictures of store fronts on the way to and from Pearl to MOSS. This one on the left was the street. I'm not sure exactly what it is but it was shiny.

Across the street from Pearl on Canal St. is a rubber store boasting any kind of rubber you would ever want. The other corner had a plastics store.

Very cool items.
A lot of ICFF design work.

Finally we arrived at Moss. Big shock, the 17,000 US sofa is still there. They did have a few new pieces, mainly furniture and a snazzy light bulb lamp that I wanted for my very own.

After Megan and I met up with my friends Rob and Chi that live in NYC we went to the bestest place on the planet.

I managed to walk out having only bought one Munny, a zipper pull Munny, a Dunny and a Canibal Funfair. If you don't know what I just said GO THERE!

Gocco and DWI Statistic Coasters

2008-09-30T04:11:00.001-07:00

The Gocco machine is amazing!
(once you get a blue screen :)

Here's the inked screen waiting for me to press the image onto the coaster

Tah Dah.

This is the front side to my DWI awareness coasters.
Stay tuned for photos of them in a bar/restaurant.

Social Design: DWI/DUI Installations

2008-09-30T03:40:00.000-07:00

The DWI/DUI Parking Space.

Made for those that insist on driving while under the influence and risking themselves and others.

Hopefully the reflective tape will keep them from hitting
a. a pedestrian
b. vehicles, mainly mine
c. the curb
d. the building behind the curb
e. ME

Below, Jenn illustrates proper parking procedures when using the drunk driver spot.

Or at least common parking procedures for someone that under the influence.

Here comes the law.

They thought it was paint. I was very pleased :)

After Action Review # 1

2008-09-29T19:43:00.000-07:00

Design Problem One: Deconstruct/Reconstruct

Sustains What did you do well? Which actions and strategies led to success that
you will continue to use?

I made a good die before it slid apart on me in the press.
I really like the form I chose to use and hope to make a smaller version to use for the pin swap. Liz is determined I should have flocked tick/spider/men pins and I am down with that.
I feel that my timeline should have been written out so you could read it lol.

Improves Which things did not work so well? These are areas to improve.

I really wish I had noticed the shift before pressing the die and thus bending the brass plates inward. I would have saved myself an entire day of filing had the pieces matched better. At this point the die is unusable with out new brass plates. I also think I should have tried the natural rubber more in the project portion. I used it with my original sample pieces but didn’t want to risk my luck with the project.

What Ifs How could the project been more successful?
What are the best incarnations of the project?

Some of the pressings were more voluminous even though I pressed to the same psi and with the same durometer. These actually fit together better than the other slightly smaller forms from the very first pressings. I annealed the later pressings with the annealing torch so tht may be the contributing factor. Next project I will be using duct tape to hold my die. I don’t see why that would be a problem and it will hold up better.

Downtown to SoHo

2008-09-29T19:03:00.001-07:00

Places to see on the way to Moss.

Most of these are going up 7th ave.

I freaking love these cars.

NYC - MAD Opening

2008-09-29T18:28:00.000-07:00

We started out trip to NYC with the grand opening of MAD
The Museum of Arts and Design.

Balloon boy here is part of a installation by Jason Hackenwerth.

This is a list of all the artists I saw of interest that I want to check out later:
Mary Ann Scherr *Janna Syvanoja *Arline M Fisch
Tone Vigeland *Verena Sieber-Fuchs
Kiwan Wang *Heather White Van Stolk
Barbara Walter *Helen Shirk *Harlan Butt
Fran Reed *Steffan Dam *Devorah Sperber
Johnny Swing *Long-Bin Chen *Borris Bally
Tamiko Kawata *Nancy Warden *Emiko Sao
Marilyn Levine *Jin-Sook So *Susie MacMurry
Norma Minkowitz *Yuken Tekya
Paul Villenski *Chakaia Booker *Stuart Haygarth
Michael Rakovitz *Hew Locke *Do Ho Suh
Tara Donovan *Sonya Clark *Terese Agnew
Andy Diaz Hope *Laurel Roth

I apologize if I spelled any names wrong.

Friday

2008-09-29T18:08:00.001-07:00

Today I was at Ken and Julie's finishing up my clocks and getting a demo on how to photograph your work. Ken showed us all sorts of neat tricks and how to get the best photo for gallery submissions as well as portfolio photos.

Thursday

2008-09-29T17:57:00.001-07:00

Shown in this photo is my first prototypes for my DWI/DUI project in social design.
I was still awaiting my blank coasters to come in and was getting frantic so out came the spray paint.
Actually I just like the fumes.

The stress was starting to get to us so we made a runway.
Note: Tim Gunn is being drawn in for effect.
I'm still a little upset no one has decided to re-dress the Project Runway doll. I guess they like my recycled stewardess look.
I know Tim does.

Social Design Bibliography

2008-09-24T15:00:00.000-07:00

Social Design Bibliography:

Drunk Driving statistics and general information:

http://www.madd.org/
http://www.alcoholalert.com/drunk-driving-statistics-maryland.html
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mothers_Against_Drunk_Driving
MADD Northern MD Affiliate:  7400 York Rd, Towson MD 21204

DIY/Guerilla Tactics and Social Design:

http://www.kerismith.com/blog/
-The Guerilla Art Book by Keri Smith, (Pages: all!) 2007
-DIY Design It Yourself by Ellen Lupton, (Pages: all!)
2006
-World Changing Edited by Alex Steffen, Abrams NY 2008
-The Art of Innovation by Tom Kelley, Doubleday, 2001
-The Ten Faces of Innovation by Tom Kelley, Doubleday, 2005
http://www.guerrillagardening.org/
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Culture_jamming
http://www.adbusters.org/
http://www.adbusters.org/blogs/adbusters_blog/world_carfree_day.html
http://www.fluxus.org/
http://www.peacejam.org/
http://www.cadc.auburn.edu/soa/rural-studio/mission.htm
http://www.trashformations.com/links_we_love.html

Social Design: Prototypes

2008-09-22T20:53:00.000-07:00

I bought some magnet/paper product today to see if gocco is an option with that. I really like the idea of magnets on peoples cars for the DWI project.
I'm debating design aspects right now:
If I use written language I feel it's less dramatic but I can't seem to find a symbol or set of images that are immediately recognizable and dramatic.
I'm thinking that I don't want to soften the blow by using politically correct terms but that Drunk Driver just isn't exciting enough.
I like the visual of drink+driving=jail but need some ideas on what symbols to use. So far I have martini+steering wheel?= handcuffs?

Are you following me here? This is a poll.
What would be the most obvious way to portray this?

Iconic Forms.

2008-09-22T20:09:00.000-07:00

What is iconic form?
What is iconic hollow form?
To me iconic brings connotations of being immediately recognizable when viewed.
Like the rubber ducky, even a silhouette is understood by the majority of viewers.

Most everyone knows what this is, even if they can't remember it's actual name.

And I guarantee everyone can identify what this hollow form is.

Now, there are some out there that may say iconic=simple.
(Namely my goofy friend who seemed to think a cone was iconic)
Big help she was!
This did however make me re-think my definition of iconic as not just easily recognizable but also a symbol or representation of an idea.

Is the classical amphora an iconic form?
I think it is, it brings to mind not only the form but the history of the vessel. It represents a culture.

Mickey is an iconic form. If you made a metal ball and stuck two smaller balls on it like ears everyone within the broadcasting area of any known media would recognize and relate to it.

Andy Warhol made a living off of iconic visuals.
From Marilyn to Mickey these images had appeal because of their iconic state.

Even this form can symbolize a county, attitude and lifestyle.

The Domes of St Basils

The Guggenheim, Bilboa

The Guggenheim NYC

Hagia Sofia

I think the best example of what I feel is iconic form is Jeff Koons work.
His giant hollow forms are easy to understand and everyone can relate to what it is

Jeff uses scale to create pieces that are fun and whimsical and this also enhances the iconic feel of his work by making it larger than life.
I believe that is part of being an icon. Being larger than life.
If you'd like to share your definitions of iconic feel free...
From Websters:
Icon:

a. An image; a representation.

b. A representation or picture of a sacred or sanctified Christian personage, traditionally used and venerated in the Eastern Church.
2. An important and enduring symbol

What I've been making thus far...

2008-09-20T05:37:00.000-07:00

Here's my beautiful bench.
It's soo shiny.
I can almost remember where most of my tools are now.

And this is my first project in Jewelry III
This is the first few steps finished.
They are hydraulically pressed hollow forms put together.
Next comes...modifications.

Coasters Ordered!

2008-09-20T05:34:00.000-07:00

I ordered a pack of round coasters for my social design project. Hopefully they will arrive quickly. Now I just need to figure out if I want to stamp or just write on them.
Just a note for any looking to buy coasters:
The website www.blockheadcoasters.com sells blank coasters
The website 'blockhead.com' is a porn site. FYI.

Fun Blogs to Check Out From the NY Times

2008-09-20T05:09:00.000-07:00

I was surprised to see that the NY Times had a spot in their HOME section about Design Blogs.
Here is a list of some blogs and websites to check out later:

Coolhunting.com
lindseyadelman.com
esque-studio.com
peakofchic.com
hollisterhovey.blogspot.com
apartmentthereapy.com
mocoloc.com
mediabistro.com/unbeige
designspongeonline.com

They cost how much?!

2008-09-15T18:11:00.001-07:00

Ok, so apparently printing out coasters is out. Most companies have a 500 coaster minimum and they don't sell blanks. The jerks.
The coasters start at .25 US a pop. For square paper? I think Not.
Guess I better get out a brand new exacto blade and make a template because I'm going to be cutting like crazy. I'll try to keep from letting any blood this semester.
On second thought, I'll just 'borrow' the existing coasters and 'modify' them.
I can't afford another ER visit.

Social Design: Brainstorming cont.

2008-09-15T17:24:00.001-07:00

Since my scanner is unhappy with life I'm just going to jot down some of my ideas thus far:

Drunk Driver Parking Spaces
Stickers of Alcoholic Beverages to be place on people
Coaster with Statistics
Posting Bar Tabs with Photographs of the Person (back of their heads)
Giant Car Stickers with Warning Labels

What is Social Design?

2008-09-12T12:47:00.000-07:00

To me social design is an idea or design that inspires change in your world.
Here are some links to all the different sites I've been browsing in my search to define social design and inspire me to make a difference:

http://biobling.com/index.html

http://www.smartusa.com/
This features the Smart Car, also interesting: smart car crash testing:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ju6t-yyoU8s

The Wiki Definition: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Social_design

I thought this sites "Everything is Okay" caution tape would be fun to use:
http://www.backspace.com/notes/
If anyone knows where I can buy caution tape locally I think it may go well with my DWI Driver expose installation. Speaking of which, here is a link to the most well-known organization for anti-drunk driving, MADD
http://www.madd.org/About-Us/About-Us/Statistics.aspx
They list all the statistics on this page, for example that "three in every ten Americans will be involved in an alcohol-related crash at some time in their lives".
Think about that.
I'm one, are you?

Internship 9-12-08

2008-09-12T12:43:00.000-07:00

Internship 9-12-08 10-3pm
Today we worked mainly on finishing our four clocks up. I'm almost finished, i only need to cut and grind 4 small pieces and all of my clocks will be welded. After that I will have to grind off the scale, coat them with acrylic sealer and voila! I will post photos as soon as they are finished.

De-stress.

2008-09-11T19:40:00.001-07:00

For those of you feeling the stress of a new semester and tight deadlines...
de-stress with the lolcats.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WnpfJ6lkhvI
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aH8x2pFqG-o&feature=related

Note: If this doesn't amuse you, then you obviously aren't tired enough. Go back to the studio and do more work!

Hooray Books!

2008-09-10T14:12:00.000-07:00

I got some of my books from Amazon today! So far I re-read the first 6 chapters of Ideo (which features Amazon, go figure) and am 3/4 of the way through the Penland book of jewelry. So far most of the artists featured make me want to try their methods out. I was fascinated with the forged jewelry of John Cogswell and am now jealous of everyone in the metals II class. I also really liked the work by Rob Jackson, although not my aesthetic his inclusion of steel and fine metal is intriguing. I liked the recycled look of Deb Stoner's file-rings and bracelets. I started wrecking my journal. It's a little goofy but relaxing in a way. I still think we should make this a cooperative assignment and swap journals for wrecking. I already spit in Megan's. If only everyone would spit in mine.
Unfortunately, I need to study my biology book for my upcoming exam or I'd be shooting right through the rest of my newly acquired literature.
I did get a chance to check out a few of my fellow metalhead's blogs and dig the link on Jenn's blog on social design. Check it out, it's about Web 2.0. I'll get back to you when I have time to read the whole article...here's a link http://www.technologyandsocialaction.org/designing_for_the_21st_century

Hopefully, I will be able to finish up all my reading in time for PR!!!!

Social Design Brainstorming

2008-09-10T13:10:00.000-07:00

So far I've been reading a lot about different medications and thier over-prescription and side effects. I recently was given two separate drugs without being informed of the serious side effects. One of which has caused serious heath problems for me and many given the drug. Two of the 25 listed side effects was liver failure and death. They were the only two I didn't experience and I actually added seeing spots and blurred vision to the list!
I read the article in the NY Times on cholesterol medication and this stoked the fire behind my argument for less is more in pharmaceuticals because both of my parents were recently put on these type of medications at failed results.
I haven't thought of a viable way to make a product/item to remedy this serious issue.
I feel that informing people of the dangers of doctors over-prescribing dangerous and ill-tested medicine is one thing, fixing it is another. Most remedies would probably require government regulation, restriction and dedication...none of these words do I regularly associate with the government.

Another idea I have been tossing around in my head is that of drunk driver awareness and the issue of over-population and congestion on the highways. One of my proposed ideas is to implement a 2x DWI Offender mandatory license plate and 3x ect. They could be easily visible and known to all police and commuters so they could be more cautious around these drivers and would discourage people from drunk driving because, frankly, they would be embarrassing to the felon to have to have on his vehicle. We could also implement a speeding ticket insignia that would go on your license plate or window and enforce a "if you have, say, 2 speeding tickets in 6 months, you have a red sticker on your window and must drive in the right lanes only" rule. That way anyone with 2 or more tickets, if caught a. without their "sticker" or b. in the left lanes would get a ticket and the proceeds from the fines could pay for the stickers.
I know, it's a mean and strict plan but I'm sick of reading of people killed everyday from reckless driving and personally my commute would benefit from having the crazy people doing 90 in traffic stuck to the right lane and at the speed limit.

Ideas do not grow on trees.

2008-09-07T17:35:00.000-07:00

Where do my thoughts and ideas come from?

Mostly, I find that I get my ideas from a visual or image. When I'm intentionally looking for a type of design, I focus on that particular type. It's often when I am not looking for a specific item or idea that I pull in the most useful information. I can look at everything as a possibility for art. The blood diamonds project sprung from a dead deer on the side of the highway. My sculpture often come from a shape or image seen while in transit. In other words, stay away from me on the road because I'm obviously not thinking about driving. Kidding. Mostly.
I think the majority of my ideas I generate from looking at references, modifying and incorporating things I've seen recently and admired. I may take a photograph of an item, not be inspired by the item so much as it's surroundings or it's connotations or remembering where I was when I took the photo.
Or sometimes I have an epiphany while in the shower. You never know. I'm a little random.

Hmm.

2008-09-07T17:25:00.000-07:00

So I've been reading Rainbow Six the past few days. I find it a little ironic that this book is entirely based on terrorism/counter-terrorism, biological warfare, mega-corporations, espionage and sociopath ideology. I find it interesting that on opening up worldpress today the first article I read was on Blackwater and guess what it's all about folks....see above. Excepting biological warfare that is...or well at least I hope so.
http://www.worldpress.org/Americas/3215.cfm
check it out.
Funny, I thought Tom Clancy was a fiction writer. Shows what I know.

My BUG List

2008-09-07T17:02:00.000-07:00

My BUG List:

(Issues that I wish to address in social design)

-The high cost of health care in the US
-The use of prescription drugs to over-medicate the populous
-Sending troops to foreign soil when the US needs to be focusing on the US
-The rising cost of living
-Wildlife protection and over-development
-The loss of middle-class American way of life
-Lack of public transportation in rural areas
-Declining education standards
-High cost of education in America
-Overpopulation and lack of available employment opportunities
-Loss of local, rural farms to larger conglomerates
-Decline in small businesses
-Congestion on the highways
-Drunk drivers an ineffective methods to reduce accidents

Fun Form From Moss

2008-09-04T04:23:00.000-07:00

The NY Times

2008-09-03T13:46:00.000-07:00

I started on the front page. I have yet to get through to section B. Every single article has drawn me in, I re-read the article on cholesterol medicine and it's possible side-effects twice. My parents have both been prescribed these types of medicine in the past and now they're publishing that advanced trials were never run and these drugs may cause cancer.
To make matters worse, I have been very careful in not mentioning any of my personal, political views for this upcoming presidential race. After reading about John McCain's running candidate I think my vote may change. That's all I am saying about that.
I am so overwhelmed with the amount of information I read, Japan's leader resigns (again), the Georgian conflict still wages with thousands displaced, sushi may not be sushi at all, Medicare is a joke, more than 1.4 billion people live below poverty level earning around 1.25 USD a day ...and just when I got depressed the Times throws in a dinky story on ecologically friendly revolving homes. Why is the inspiring stuff never front page material?

Project Runway Spotting!

2008-09-03T11:03:00.000-07:00

Who says vinyl is all bad.
Project Runway now had laminated dolls that you can dress in your very own designs. You can cut out patterns and fashion yourself one FIERCE design. Of course I could draw a stick figure on some cardboard, cut out some paper dresses all for about 25 cents.
I remember playing with my paper dolls as a kid. What has happen to the world that they need laminated Barbie look-a-likes, glitter tube tops and sequined miniature Gucci bags.
I almost bought one for the studio but then I came back to a little place called sanity. If I put it up, inevitably someone would want to play with it all the time...(Jan?!)

Labor Day Weekend

2008-09-03T10:52:00.000-07:00

So, Labor Day at my house actually means labor day. We split wood all day which I rather enjoyed the hydraulic splitter. The bugs, not so much.

While I am rolling giant logs over to said splitter and splitting away, my muscle bound brother...he's carrying logs ONE AT A TIME to the pile. But he did save me from the ants. That's all I will say about that.

After splitting wood I got to pressure wash the deck! Yeah!
Note: Do not let my mother near equipment. Here's about where she lost control of the gun and cut up the rails....At least holding a steel grinder all summer buffed me up for the 5000 psi pressure washer lol!

Singular Vision Exhibition

2008-08-29T14:15:00.000-07:00

Ken and Julie Girardini will be featured in the Singular Vision show in DC. Also on display will be art by Joan Konkel and Sue Klebanoff. Suzi and I will be attending Friday the 5th for the opening. Let me know if you want to tag along.

Sept. 5-28:
11 a.m.-6 p.m. Tuesday-Friday
11 a.m.-7 p.m. Saturday
Noon-5 p.m. Sunday

Zenith Gallery
413 Seventh St. NW
Washington, DC
• Information: 202-783-2963
• Price: Free
http://www.washingtonpost.com/ac2/wp-dyn/?node=cityguide/profile&id=1153274&venueid=791851

Internship 8-29-08

2008-08-29T13:50:00.001-07:00

I started today with finishing the brass side bars for the curves clocks so they can be welded. After that it was full speed ahead to get my prototypes done. The first, a tabletop clock is shown after being welded by the talented Ken! He also makes an excellent backdrop holder as you can see in the pic.

This is the wall version waiting for welding! After these are both finished then we turn around and make two identical ones. Hooray production work! I can't wait to show everyone the final pieces!

Internship 8-26-08

2008-08-29T07:43:00.000-07:00

So I finished up sanding the 25 rings needed for the faces of the curves clocks. After that it was work on your very own clock time! My first tabletop clock was ready for welding by the end of the day! Next time I'll show pictures!!!

Internship 8-25-08

2008-08-29T07:40:00.000-07:00

<-SOLD!
Today we prepared the mailings for Julie and Ken's opening coming up on Sept. 5th and 6th. We wrapped and shipped items, J&K have already sold an ornament holder in August! Julie, Suzi and I had a design review of our sketches and picked which prototype we want to start with. Then I started cutting away at parts!

Internship 8-20-08

2008-08-22T16:10:00.000-07:00

I brought in my ICFF book of collected images from the show to show Ken, Dave and Julie since they couldn't go this year. We discussed some of the designs and their strong points. We also got a chance to look at Dave's sketchbook which was a fabulous example of sketching. (I was jealous! Me and pencils don't get along. My sketchbooks are reminiscent of a 3 year olds doodles. ) Later, I worked on cutting pieces for a series of Curves clocks. I cut the square rod with the rotary saw, sanded them on the belt sander and then scotch-brited them so they're smooth. I worked on the Osaka Lamp pieces. I had to grind the bases in a three step process. Suzi meanwhile sanded panels that Ken will later patina. I had a chance to watch the process for that which is more complicated than one would think. Overall, it was a pretty busy day and we managed to get caught up on a lot of work.

Internship 8-19-08

2008-08-22T15:58:00.001-07:00

Today we had a patina demo on how Ken makes his steel paintings.

This is a before picture. It shows the steel with just one section being colored.

Here Ken is hand painting a section on the piece.
I can't go into detail on the actual process but it's very interesting and meticulous.

This is the final product. Pretty snazzy if you ask me.

This is another piece he finished that day.
The final product can then be hung on a wall just like an oil painting.

Internship 8-15-08

2008-08-20T20:36:00.000-07:00

Today we discussed merchandising, catalogs and pricing for pieces. Julie talked to us about out-sourcing and ways to start promoting your artwork.
We later worked on the final finish on the Ornament Displays and cut rings to begin a production cycle of about 25 of the Curves Clock.
These are pictures off of the Artful Home website of the different pieces we have worked on thus far.
The Osaka Lamp is shown above.

The Flying Dragon Clock

The Hanging Lake Vase (aka the Evil Tension Vase.)

The Luma / Bloom Vase

The Curves Clock ( This is what I am currently cutting pieces for.)

The Asian Wall Clock

The BAC Clock

These we haven't made any as of yet but have packaged or assembled them, this is the Triple Arc Candleholders.

The Double Circle Clock and below is the Easel Clock.

Internship 8-13-08

2008-08-20T20:27:00.001-07:00

Today I drilled the holes for the ornament holders on the drill press after Suzi marked and punched the holes with an awl.
This is the photographs from The Artful Home online catalog.
This is the Triple Ornament holder and below is the single.Check out the catalog if you get a chance, there are some wonderful pieces of furniture, jewelry and artwork on the website.
www.artfulhome.com

After drilling the pieces I then sanded a finish onto the bases and sides.
I made up a "tool kit" of different scrap pieces for Suzi and I to use in designing our own functional item. We will either be creating an original clock, bowl, candle holder or simple functional item using the experience we have gained from the internship. I can't wait to have my very own steel artwork!

Internship 8-08-08

2008-08-13T22:07:00.000-07:00

There is nothing like a dust mask and ear protection to really make a girl look sexy.
Alas, ya gotta do what ya gotta do. So here's some visuals of me looking at my finest. I'm using the abrasive grinding tool to grind the sides of the ornament holders.

I also use this same process to grind a nice pattern onto the bases of the stands, for the single holder we use a flat circle and for the triple holder a rectangular piece that all need a ground finish and smooth edges. I took all of the circles and used a sanding attachment on the drill press to sand the interior of the rings. Believe it or not this was one of the more challenging of processes. You only have a 1/4" thick piece of steel to grip and the ring must stay parallel to the floor. You then move it in a clockwise motion on the sanding wheel. After about five I could no longer feel my fingers and my whole arm was vibrating! It think I may have actually sanded more of the finger tips of my leather gloves than steel today.
Later, Suzi and I did a major clean-up using the air tool to blow the dirt and dust from one end of the studio to the other. The piles we swept up after were HUGE; and this from only a day or two of work. The Girardini's are working on an amazing bed design for an individual request. More to come on this later, but as for now it looks to be incredible! Both of the ornament stand pieces as well as several of the clocks in production are featured in the catalog, Artful Home. I suggest anyone in the jewelry program check it out, they have a lot of great, cutting edge design shown.

Internship 8-7-08

2008-08-13T21:56:00.001-07:00

Today we worked on ornament holders for Christmas bulbs. I started by cutting all the tubes in different sizes, then Suzi, see picture, ground all the sides as they are visible on the finished product. You start with a coarse, larger sander to remove scratches and cutting marks then move to a smaller sander run on the air line.

I then sanded the outside of the rings on the belt sander. I did most of the spinning of these because I rather enjoy the fact that if you screw up that puppy is flying off the sander. I prefer danger when there's an option.

Internship 8-5-08

2008-08-05T14:17:00.001-07:00

Today we did more cutting, sanding and grinding.
We started to grind the edges on all the pipe for the ornament holders.
Here are some pictures of what we've been creating,
<-- The BAC Clock. (Sans hands if you don't follow where it's a clock.)

The Tension Vase ( I'm sure it has a cool name, this is just what I'm dubbing it as it caused me PLENTY of tension)

The Floral Vase Stand. (Again, probably has a way more exciting name) It gets glass tubes that sit in the cylinders that hold the flowers.

Busted

2008-08-05T14:11:00.001-07:00

Ok, so as embarrassing as this picture is I feel everyone will get a laugh at my expense, so feel free. Here I am jamming out on Rockband. All the other band members were wily enough to stay off camera. While I may look ridiculous, I am just preparing for when I become a famous rock star. Any day now....

Internship 8-4-08

2008-08-05T13:55:00.000-07:00

Suzi is back! Yeah! Who goes on vacation anyway? I don't need no stinking vacation. Actually, maybe I do, that would explain a lot. Oh well.
<-- Suzi's corner.
These are pics of the cutting/grinding room.
Today we worked on cutting pipe on the band saw, cutting rods on the rotary saw, sanding all of those on the belt sander and of course, grinding!

<-- My Corner.

The Bubble Wrapping Room!!!
I love bubble wrap.

The drop/band saw. It's more impressive in person.

Suzi rocking out on the rotary saw slicing up some rods.
Hooray sparks!