DOTT SCHNEIDER & THE PIGEON

MAPS, MAPS, MAPS, AND, WHAT'S THAT? YES, MORE MAPS

2011-12-19T12:32:00.000-08:00

As I've stated ad nausea on all my social media networks as well as in real life, the strategic planning process for this show has me completely pumped up. The newly added QR code to the upper right gives you a smattering of information on it and the title is officially The Missing Piece. I've also added a link to follow Dott Schneider Art on Facebook in the upper left as well as a twitter thingamabob. Sometimes I don't blog as often as I should, but the other two outlets should keep you posted.

I've been acquiring a bunch of maps to go along with the 1,000 pieces I'm creating. And with that, I'm headed out to get some more.

See you soon, kiddies.

HELLO, YOU.

2011-12-02T12:40:00.000-08:00

So Thanksgiving taught me that I need to train for two holiday households. Pressure applied to any part of my body after T-day #1 caused much discomfort. I swear if anyone pressed my stomach my eyeballs would've burst.

In other news, show is NOW tentatively titled The Missing Piece, which makes more sense. If you want to know a bit more or follow the more day to day stuff, go to Dott Schneider Art on Facebook and 'like' me.

PERFECT

2011-11-25T13:12:00.000-08:00

REWIND

2011-10-28T12:17:00.000-07:00

I've been going back and reading old posts and thought "WOW! I said I was going to do that or that person said that they would help me with this, but some of these things never saw the light of day."

I guess blogging is a good way to measure what really happens.

"WHAT KIND OF TWEE WOULD YOU BE?"

2011-10-22T09:27:00.000-07:00

I made this tree costume for my friend, Jennedy. She's going to Put in Bay with a group of people. I told her not to pass out on the street or she will be mistaken for a log.

Pulling together this costume reminded me how much I miss making props. Materials used: chicken wire, paper mache, house paint, spray paint, branches. Foam interior for comfort and warmth. Heh.

INSTALLATION @ ZALLER GALLERY

2011-10-15T05:40:00.000-07:00

THINK ABOUT THIS...

2011-10-15T05:36:00.000-07:00

I'm reposting this, MY (brother's) THOUGHTS ON TODAY'S PROTESTS...

Will it seem callous if I suggest to the protesters (I am among them), that they should eat their imported sweaters and tennis shoes?

Remember how all those cheap goods seemed like a good value back in the day? The OBSCENE profit margins drove all our manufacturing jobs overseas, but we were all like "Oh, well - I wanted to wo...rk in an office any...way, so who cares I'll just buy these socks made in Communist China by prisoners and children, They're on sale 3 for $1.00."- OOPS! there's suddenly another closed knitting mill in Massachusetts.

Now that our office jobs are also leaving for the newly industrialized "developing world" - where did we think the next wave of job growth was going to come from here in the US?

American consumers have basically financed our own demise by looking at short term savings (a dollar here and there at Wal-Mart), and not the national interest (domestically produced, environmentally regulated, human rights enforced products, fairly priced).

Now we blame the corporations? I'm not saying the corps. are free of guilt, but American consumers never seemed to mind what big biz was up to until now, when it seems too late. It seems to me we negligently supported their practices "all along the way" by supporting them with our spending habits.

Where was our concern for the nation and our neighbors back when times"seemed" good for all? I'm frustrated, and mad as Hell, but I wonder if Americans will take any lessons for themselves while rightfully freaking out at Wall Street.

DAY OF BIRTH

2011-10-13T07:47:00.001-07:00

Yep. I'm 43 today. As you were.

MORE ART, LESS FART

2011-10-08T09:20:00.000-07:00

Taking photos of the puzzle piece on the shores of Lake Erie today and in other places as well. Thinking about changing the name of the exhibition from Information to something else, I'm not sure what just yet. Good thing is that the show has been moved to April from February, which makes the construction and rest of the plan for install easier to manage.

Also, we are in Day 8 of Dottoberfest! 31 days of celebrating my birthday, which is the 13th.

PROSIT!

INFORMATION OPENS APRIL 2012

2011-09-20T09:24:00.001-07:00

Yet another change in date for the opening of INFORMATION. This should stick, though. April 2012 at Legation in Cleveland.

RIP GRANDPA DRESLINSKI

2011-09-20T09:23:00.001-07:00

BLOCKAGE

2011-09-12T07:52:00.000-07:00

I've been finding it difficult to work in the studio these past few days due to some familial matters. My grandfather is going through kidney failure and dialysis would've only kept him going for another year. I went to visit him at Bedford Hospital yesterday and held his hand while he slept and talked to him about the quotidian things. He's still here for now. It's a matter of time I'm told, though.

Today I'm in the studio struggling with my artist statement, but that seems like nothing in comparison.

SELF EDITING: IT'S A THING

2011-09-08T08:28:00.000-07:00

Rethinking, rehashing and retooling the installation aspect of INFORMATION. All the elements are in progress. That is, the show will still include the goal 1,000 puzzle pieces + 3 dream machines.

My process includes a lot of self revision, and I'm sure I share this with most artists. It's important to know what gels and what doesn't. That crucial and often anxiety inducing edit still needs to promote the integrity of the message and how the work is displayed.

And so, I'll be in the studio nearly every day until the end of January.

INFORMATION: PHASE ONEPOINT TWO

2011-08-28T07:41:00.000-07:00

Drew out some more pieces today to jigsaw and started a 2D piece that's fairly large. I'm liking how this body of work is developing. I may need to go foraging for doors and/or window frames. I've also acquired two more turntables and so now I can construct the Dream Machines. Huzzah!

In other news: I finally was able to hang out with my friend, Julia. I hadn't seen her or her husband, Colin since I came home for a visit when I was living in Vegas. Julia played a major role in getting my name out there as an artist and even got me some national press in the glossy monthly, Jane Magazine. (I miss that rag).

I'm off and back to the studio...

UNTITLED BLOG POST

2011-08-27T05:28:00.000-07:00

I have a studio visit today at both the Screw Factory as well as in my humble abode. I moved my cats over so now everyone I love is in the same place, which makes being in the studio in the early morning easier to accomplish. The majority of my productivity happens in the home studio whereas the thinking and sketching out part happens at the other place or the front porch.

I'd better get back in there. Coffee break is over.

"LOOKS LIKE MEAT IS BACK ON THE MENU, BOYS!"

2011-08-23T13:33:00.000-07:00

In an interesting twist of events, I will be using Libby's studio at the Screw Factory for the next couple of weeks. This is good as I'll be able to get my bearings on moving from Birdtown to the "new" place, or at least my cats will. I've still got a place where I can get sloppy as far as the art is concerned and this is a great thing.

GO BROWNS!

2011-08-19T11:48:00.001-07:00

Headed to the Browns game tonight! First there'll be tailgating with my big brother, Butch and then heading to Stadium! YEAH!

GIVE UP THE GOAT...ROMANTICALLY

2011-08-17T13:21:00.000-07:00

Tonight I'm making baby goat shoulder with a haute medoc reduction, braised shallots, and quinoa with olives, zucchini and dried tomatoes.

Because I can.

WELCOME TO BIRDTOWN

2011-08-13T23:03:00.000-07:00

COURAGE OOZING FROM MY PORES

2011-08-12T06:17:00.000-07:00

Being deeply loved by someone gives you strength, while loving someone deeply gives you courage.
- Lao Tzu

STUDIO BIRDTOWN

2011-08-11T04:54:00.000-07:00

Looks like plans have changed on the Screw Factory sublet as my friend will be staying in town after all and it's probably a blessing in disguise. Really. I have a great space in Birdtown and this way I won't be dividing my time between three places, only two.

That being said, I scored a vanity table and a huge frame-like object while on a long walk. Also, today I get to root through scrap sheets of wood to cut puzzle pieces from. This all makes the beginning of yesterday more tolerable.

AUGUST 2011

2011-08-10T05:56:00.000-07:00

The 23rd will bring a month (or so) of sublet at Screw Factory as I continue to gain momentum on Information. The 27th will bring a studio visit in the morning and that will be interesting.

FRIDAY, AUGUST 12TH AT LEGATION, A GALLERY

2011-08-09T06:55:00.000-07:00

Good Morning and what a Tuesday!

Friday is the private event for the SPACES board and staff show at Legation. I will have three pieces from Information in it. I'm using the puzzle piece found in the desert as the template for every single piece that's in the solo show, too.

Ever since I've posted the Dream Machine pic this song has been inside of my head...

THAT'S RIGHT, MAN...

2011-08-06T01:22:00.000-07:00

I hate to be ambiguous, but Filthy Charmer, time's come to pay your dues...

I WAS A TEEN-AGED BEAUTY QUEEN. BELIEVE IT, BROTHER.

2011-08-05T21:24:00.000-07:00

Independence Home Days are going on this weekend. I tried my hand at becoming Miss Independence, Ohio 1986...and won; so I'm posting the pic from my illustrious victory.

BEHOLD...

Gold lame (lamay, not lame) with black and gold paisley brocade. "you look like a carp." - Butchie Schneider

ART21 or WHY PBS IS AWESOME (ALSO, I LOVE NOVA)

2011-08-05T10:29:00.000-07:00

I love Art21. I really do and I may just marry it.

Perusing through The Internets for research, I came across the work of Cai Guo-Qiang again and am now surging with creativity.

AND THEN...

2011-07-31T06:47:00.000-07:00

Went to Intern Tyler's group show last night. That kid has some serious talent as do many of his cohorts, but his work in particular has substance.

In other news, I got nothing. Just going to get breakfast stuff.

AHHHHHHHHHHHHH

2011-07-30T06:45:00.000-07:00

It's very quiet in the wee morning hours here in Lakewood. The birds and cicada are chirping with an added bonus crisp breeze wafting through the windows. Boyfriend is asleep, cats have been tended to, coffee en route to being fully consumed.

I was discussing my work process last night with Chris. It's interesting to have gotten to this point having felt like I was flailing (way back when and for several years) not really knowing how to hone and present my ruminations. The routine has commenced for the next 191 days. Roughly 6 puzzle pieces per day in order to achieve 1000 pieces for the whole show. So far 45 have been knocked out in various types of fabric. Later on today I'll (hopefully) be cutting out a few in wood.

But first, I've got to head in to work...then I can hit the studio.

Neat!

INFORMATION: PHASE ONE

2011-07-27T13:09:00.001-07:00

Here's a link to the Flickr account that will be used to document the work as it progresses for Information, which is now opening in FEBRUARY 2012 instead of March...

INFORMATION CHRONICLING ON FLICKR

GOOD MORNING!

2011-07-26T07:56:00.000-07:00

AND WE'RE OFF!

2011-07-25T11:05:00.000-07:00

Tomorrow starts three weeks of intense art making and I'm on the make for three turntables in order to create the dream machines for my installation piece.

Got nothing else right now. At work getting numbers together for a meeting and then I'm off to hang with the man and son.

Here's something awesome that was posted on my Facebook page and I thought I'd share since it's ABSOLUTELY RIGHT!

STUDIO AND SANDINISTA SHOW...

2011-07-23T09:19:00.000-07:00

I'm at SPACES, but I think I'll come back tomorrow to do what I need to do. I was strolling through a book titled The Architecture of Variation, which sparked some ideas on the installation structure and so right now I'm itching to advance the work for Information.

In other arty news, tonight is the opening of Sandinista! Art Inspired by the Music of The Clash, which looks to be an awesome show. Christopher Lanza has two pieces in it and they're pretty killer. I'm not being biased either; I think his art has progressed a LOT over the past year. We are also working on a two person exhibition that will be announced sometime before 2012.

That's all.

DREAM MACHINE

2011-07-19T13:49:00.000-07:00

Something interesting that I'm integrating with next installation pieces for solo exhibition in March 2012 titled Information. I watched the documentary a while ago and have been fascinated ever since. The idea is to house it inside the puzzle piece structure...

Dream Machine

MORE ART ITEMS...

2011-07-12T04:44:00.000-07:00

I'll have work at the SPACES Board & Staff exhibition at Legation, a gallery opening August 19th. On display will be a preview of work from my upcoming solo exhibition Information, opening March 2012.

Speaking of Information, I have an assistant for the next month or so to help me in the studio. I'll be at Screw Factory for a couple months as well to kick-start the campaign. The work is based on this thing that I found 500 feet from the road, up a hill in the middle of the desert in N.E. Las Vegas...

Full press release in editing mode right now, but it will be done shortly. The exhibition will be at Legation, a gallery, 1300 D, W78th Street, Cleveland, Ohio.

CALLS FOR ARTISTS!

2011-07-05T10:55:00.000-07:00

I've had two places contact me for artists to hang their work.

Dragonfly contact Kindra Pucci
Tavo Martini Loft & Restaurant contact Ashley Hall

Both places are looking for contemporary art to showcase in their restaurants. Very cool locations and both in Cleveland.

DO IT!

WHAT TO DO IN CLEVELAND!

2011-07-01T11:58:00.000-07:00

I'm one of the people interviewed in this week's edition of FRIDAY! Magazine.
If you're looking for something to do in Cleveland, there's some info in here for ya. I noticed that my pic was cropped in the actual print version, so I thought I'd post it here. We took it on the roof of the SPACES building.

Photo credit: Tyler Zeleny.

ONE YEAR AGO...

2011-06-30T10:42:00.000-07:00

One year ago on Sunday, I went to see the Not So Good Old Boys at Screaming Rooster in Lakewood. I was subletting a studio at Screw Factory from artist Marty O'Connor at the time and thought I'd go support my friend's band and hand out postcards for my solo exhibition, Burrows, which opened on July 16th. I hadn't planned on actually meeting Chris, but had wanted to ask him out for some time and he was finally free and so I did and we went out and in all seriousness, I would rather have spent just this one year with him than a lifetime with anyone else.

I love you, baby. Happy Anniversary.
xo

SPACES TAKING APPLICATIONS FOR R&D AND SPACELAB!

2011-06-30T09:46:00.000-07:00

Apply: R&D

Apply: SPACELab

GET OUT! 14 IN SCENE!

2011-06-08T08:34:00.000-07:00

Taken from Scene's Get Out! Thanks, Elaine Cicora!

Words & Pictures

14 Opens in Collinwood

More than most books, R. A. Washington's 14 is open to interpretation. That's because the local poet, artist, and musician wrote the 14-chapter novelette specifically to spark artful creativity. The storyline — which follows an unnamed protagonist who wakes up after an argument to find his lover dead in the bathroom with no memory of what happened — leaves plenty of room for artistic license. Says Washington: "I was playing with the idea of how we interpret relationships. As a man and a heterosexual, I like the ambiguity of that, and in art I think it is important to consider the notion of 'otherness.'" You can consider it too, tonight from 6 to 10 p.m. at the exhibition's opening reception. Fourteen local artists, including Dave Desimone, Chris Kulcsar, Katie Maurer, and Dott Schneider have brought each of the book's two-page chapters to life inside one of 14 rooms on the second floor of an abandoned 1960s-era bank building. Guests are invited to literally walk through the novelette, taking in the imagery while reading the story. The takeaway, says Washington, is all about collaboration. "Writers sometimes float above the ether, so I hope what people will see is the energy of what's possible when artists come together." The free exhibition will also be open June 18 from 6 to 10 p.m. and June 25 from noon to 7 p.m. Find it inside the former Key Bank building at 15619 Waterloo Rd. — Cicora

CHAPTER THIRTEEN INSTALLATION ROOM

2011-06-07T16:12:00.000-07:00

It's moving right along, this installation. I'll be heading over later tonight when it cools down a bit. I wish I had a boom box. Ha! Remember those?

I've been listening to a.lot.of Black Keys and Black Keys flavored music for this piece; the idea is being edited throughout the process. To be able to do installation work in this freeing manner is wonderful. Even more wonderful is the score of two x-ray monitoring machines! Totally vintage and they are awesome.

MORE ART RELATED ITEMS

2011-06-05T11:21:00.000-07:00

This coming Saturday I am part of an exhibition called The 14, based on the novella by R.A. Washington. It'll be held at the old Key Bank building next to the Beachland on Waterloo. This is my first pure installation show, which is exciting and quite freeing. 14 artists have each chosen a chapter and a room to transform. I picked chapter 13.

Then on June 18th, Notes from the Cleveland Underground opens at Ampersand Gallery in Cologne, Germany.

March 16, 2012 is when my next solo exhibition will open at Legation, a gallery. It's titled Information and is based on a 2' sq puzzle piece I found in the outlying desert surrounding Las Vegas. It's more involved than just "a show about a puzzle piece," though...much more involved.

In other news: I'm on staff at SPACES and have been for the past three weeks. I.love.it. I love being surrounded by art all day long. YEAH!

Since I haven't posted a video in a while, here's something of interest perhaps:

THE 50/50 SHOW!

2011-05-16T07:52:00.000-07:00

50 original works by 50 artists for 50 dollars

Back by popular demand!!!

The 50/50 show will feature 50 works of art done by 50 artists with each piece selling for $50.00.

The 50/50 show was one of Northeast Ohio’s most anticipated art events and was one of 1300 Gallery’s most popular shows. This show will bring to the art patron a chance to own an original work by some of the best local talent at a very affordable price. Each work will be hung for one night only, with sales being completed that evening.

Artist List -
Karl Anderson, Joe Ayala, Robert Banks, Oliver Barrett, Bask, Judy Brandon, Sean Burns, Jason Byers, J.Scott Byler, Dale Caruso, Amy Casey, R!ch Cihlar, Dave Cintron, Cleveland SGS, Suzanne Cofer,
Pepper Davis, Billy Delfs, Dana Depew, Eileen Dorsey, Steve Ehret, Dan Ferlan, Susie Frazier, Mallorie Freeman, John G, Mike Gezze, Ivan Gomez Keri Gortz, Michael Greenwald, Ben Haehn, Laurel Herbold, Derek Hess, Sara Hoover, Jeff Hulligan, Nina Huryn, Beth Kappa, Jim Karpinski, Stephen Kasner, Brian Kelly, Sean Kelly, Jake Kelly, Chad "CHOD" Kimes, Ron Kretsch, Rose Marincil, Geoff May, Keny Medina, Barb Merritt, Rosalina Morales, Dan Morgan,
Julie Morgan, Erin Mulligan, Nathaniel Murray, Billy Nainiger, Karen Novak, Shannon Okey, Dana Oldfather, Ian P.E., Anastasia Pantsios, Bob Peck, Scott Pickering, Marlee Pickles, Mikhail Poloskin, Paul Rogers, Rich Romero, Joe Rossi, Thom Rossino, William Rupnik, John Ryan, Christina Sadowski, Will Sanchez, Dott Schneider, Kelle Schwab, Aaron Sechrist, Matthew Ryan Sharp, Paul Psydorenko, Rustbelt Welding, Chris Ryniak, Justin Tokos, Douglas Max Utter, Anthony Van Roy, Sebastian Wagner, Mike Wohlend, Paul Woznicki

Music by DJ Bradley P

Special thanks goes out to our sponsors:
Jakprints http://www.jakprints.com/
Scene http://www.clevescene.com/
Tavens Container http://www.tavens.com/
Rock The House http://www.rthgroup.com/
Major Productions

for more info:
http://www.facebook.com/the5050show

Contact:
Marty Geramita
marty@strhess.com

UPCOMING EXHIBITIONS AND OTHER NOT SO OR MAYBE RELATED ITEMS

2011-05-15T08:18:00.000-07:00

WOW! My last post was in February, which goes to show that I was either lazy or busy. I prefer the latter.

Here's what's coming down the pike:

Notes from the Cleveland Underground at Ampersand Gallery, Cologne, Germany opening June 18th.

The 50/50 show returns (THANK DOG!) and you've GOT to check it out. One night only, May 20th!

There you go.

STUFFS AND GOINGS ONS

2011-02-10T04:10:00.000-08:00

Okay, so I've got several exhibitions down the pike:

Notes from the Cleveland Underground in Cologne, Germany
"Language is a Skin" at Visible Voice Books in Tremont based on my continuing study of Roland Barthes' A Lover's Discourse: Fragments.
Possible group exhibition at Legation, a gallery
Working on solo exhibition works for Legation, a gallery based on the puzzle piece I found in the desert.
Solo show at the John Seiberling Gallery, which is comprised of relief sculptures based on the Virginia Kendall Ledges.

Stay tuned...

GUNG HAY FAT CHOY!

2011-02-03T17:32:00.001-08:00

Happy Chinese New Year. It's the Year of the White Metal Rabbit and this monkey hopes it will be a good one.

Word.

FROM THE ETHER AND BEYOND. HAPPY NEW YEAR. THAT WASN'T SO BAD, WAS IT?

2011-01-01T08:21:00.000-08:00

From Facebook to you:

obligatory wrap up the year status update...here goes: I did not have such a shitty year. I know the rest of you hated 2010, but it was a pretty positive one for me considering the SHITACULAR TRAINWRECK that was my 2009. Wishes for a prosperous and healthy 2011 to yous guys. Word

Addendum:

Like I said, 2010 wasn't such a shitty year for me and I'm pretty relieved about that. 2009 was the worst. 2010 saw me get back into fighting shape physically, mentally, emotionally, and artistically. My dream job went full time; I got a car, a studio, and an apartment; I have an awesome boyfriend; reconnected with old friends and made some great new ones. That's really about it. I guess if I have any resolutions for this year it would be to exercise more patience and understanding and finish painting my apartment.

I can't wait for the Chinese New Year on February 3rd! Year of the Metal Rabbit! (I couldn't think of any other "rabbit" songs to post, so you get this one.)

I LOVE WINTER! I HATE WINTER! I LOVE WINTER!

2010-12-13T12:48:00.000-08:00

My relationship with winter has given me a lot of baggage literally! My car is stuffed to the gills with skis, ski poles, ski boots, more smatterings of winter gear and snow crap than I care to count; but I love winter! Nordic ski season has started and I'm SUPER loving it! I'd be skiing right now if I didn't leave work to work from "home". The weather is a chocolate train wreck of a mess in the valley, but the west side not so much, though my car almost got "Mulachi crunched" moments ago by a bad winter driver. Meh.

That's all. Back to my rockpile...

THIS WEEK IN THE LIFE

2010-11-17T02:51:00.001-08:00

Scanning clips and getting other things together in order to finally complete the website.

BUSY BUSY BUSY

2010-11-10T04:41:00.000-08:00

Went to the studio last night for some short prep work. Nothing fancy, just getting sketches and such in order for my sister to check out. She arrives in Cleveland on Saturday and I'm so happy. I haven't seen her since May 2009 and she has been sorely missed from my day to day. We do skype but it's not the same.

My friend, Action Heroine Nicole and I will be checking out the Cleveland Orchestra during the holiday season. That will be great. Haven't been to experience the Orchestra since I've been home. I mean, I saw the opera Cosi von Tutti, but that wasn't with full C.O.

Annnnnnnnnd that's about all I got for this Wednesday. Here's some Motorhead...

SCREW FACTORY ARTISTS OPEN STUDIO TODAY FROM 1-8 PM

2010-11-06T10:01:00.000-07:00

C'mon down to the Screw Factory at 13000 Athens in Lakewood, Ohio for the Screw Factory Artists Open Studio! It runs from 1-8pm. I'll be manning the info table on the second floor from 1-3pm. Though I'm not fully participating this time around, my studio mate, Michelle Mowery (mosaics) has invited two guest artists, Suzanne Sebold (ceramics and paintings) and Amy Budzar (jewelry), both really cool artists.

There is a total of 45 artists participating in this event today!

HAPPY HALLOWEEN!!!!!!!!!!!!

2010-10-31T09:58:00.000-07:00

This is the best holiday next to Thanksgiving. Had a great time at the WCSB Halloween party at Cleveland Public Theater. Saw some great costumes.

My mummy costume while great on Friday for work, turned into something too labor intensive so I zombied it up with latex and make up. Though I may have looked more like Regan from The Exorcist.

Tonight is the premier of The Walking Dead on AMC and my "friend" has cable so it'll be a good night for spooky halloweening. I need to get some candy....

LE DEUXIEME JOUR

2010-10-29T13:34:00.000-07:00

Yesterday started off shittily, then became awesome and then I made it shitty and this morning started off shitty, was fun for a while and has now gone back to shitty.

There are many factors, but one was self induced and stupid and I have no idea how I'm going to get back on the happy train. Texting sucks. The human voice is a wonderful thing.

feck.

NOTES FROM THE CLEVELAND UNDERGROUND AND PORTRAIT SERIES

2010-10-22T12:18:00.000-07:00

Went to stretch a rather large canvas today only to find that I had no staples and so rectified the situation and am at studio now getting ready to do same.

The canvas is for my next series of work based on CLE artists and musicians, a total of twelve in all. The first one portrait is of Chris Lanza, artist and lead vocals for Cleveland band, The Standing 69s, which is committed for exhibition in Notes from the Cleveland Underground, an exhibition set to tour Cologne, Berlin, Hamburg and finishing up in Cleveland, OH. More info can be found here at Sustainable Love Corporation out of Cologne.

In other news: there's other news...

IT'S THE 20TH?

2010-10-20T03:23:00.000-07:00

Been splitting my time between Independence (where I currently reside), Lakewood and Tremont (watching Ron's dog, Lulu) of late. Haven't been to the studio much this month and that's stopping this weekend. Have to start on that huge portrait as well as finish up the pieces for Orange Art Center.

In other news, not a big fan of Dunkin Donuts coffee.

Here's a video. I have to go walk Lulu.

42...LIFE, THE UNIVERSE AND EVERYTHING...

2010-10-13T02:26:00.000-07:00

It's been a hell of a year and I won't have even been back for 365 days until mid-November. That being said, I've done a lot this birthday year and I surprised myself of all people.

The best decision I've ever made was to move back home and not be ashamed that things didn't work out in Vegas. Such is life. Things that DID work out: Lost 40 lbs, got my health back, rode 150 miles in a weekend, found an awesome job working with great people and folks who really care about the mission statement, finally xcountry skied the towpath, reconnected with old friends, had a three month long solo art exhibition that got great press and was fruitful, my kittens are alive and with me, took the Ohio Certified Volunteer Naturalist course, I've been able to hang out with my grandpa, laughed and cried but mostly laughed my ass off, got a studio, got a car, had a fantastic "summer of dott", finally asked that guy out that I really wanted to for a while, have a family that is so great and cares, I can go on...

Because it's my birthday and I can do what I want, here's my sappy Tarot for the day. Enjoy (not that it means anything to you)!

"The Temperance card suggests that my alter ego today is the Mediator, whose superpower for negotiation lies in my innate ability to create the right chemistry within a particular situation. I am a continual work in progress. I strive for equality, balance and compatibility -- driven by my innate sense of fairness. This provides a certain degree of predictability in my actions, and is my recipe for success. As in all things truly worthwhile in life, love is an art, sketched and painted atop a canvas of mutual respect. Such a foundation allows only for the occasional brush stroke to cover a mixed message or misunderstanding, and avoid use of the paint roller. Take it one day at a time, valuing all things with such an openness as to provide not only the proper balance, but to allow for proper action when needed."

GOULASH AND OTHER DELIGHTS

2010-10-11T13:20:00.000-07:00

Things that have transpired since the other day:

Officially a Screw Factory Artist and splitting space with the rockin' Michelle Mowery, mosaicist extraordinaire.

Got a car

Am two days away from life, the universe and everything

Steve Wainstead is in town

Ex got engaged...and good for them. Seriously.

Working on overall artist statement

Seeing someone AWESOME.

As you were...

DEAR YOU

2010-10-09T06:14:00.001-07:00

Dear You (and you know who you are),

Cut the crap.

Love,
Dott

THE GOOD, THE BAD AND THE MUCKY

2010-10-05T07:55:00.000-07:00

I've acquired the muck from my friend and that's what I get for smooching a sickie...so I'm convalescing at home surviving on NyQuil and chicken broth. It feels like I've been Mulachi crunched by a pair of rhinos. Lord knows if this develops into a respiratory infection, I'll need to start looking for a drier climate again. Ugh.

That is all. Thank god for the kittens who are gathered around me and keeping me warm.

DOTTOBERFEST

2010-10-01T05:15:00.000-07:00

Bike ride to studio was a bust do to faulty tire technical difficulties and other influences, BUT I'm here now and having my coffee.

Today marks the first day of Dottoberfest, The Birthday Month. For the past 8 or so years I've been celebrating my birthday through the full month of October because I'm an adult and I can do that. It's like having hohos and turkey drumsticks for breakfast! Nobody is going to tell you that you can't have them BECAUSE YOU'RE A GROWN UP. HA!

Anyway, great shows are reaching critical mass this month with Helmet, Early Man, The Sword, David Sedaris, and it all wraps up with Halloween!!!

Here's the first video of Dottoberfest. Enjoy!

YEP

2010-09-29T15:31:00.001-07:00

"TAKE MY HEAD OUT OF THE GAME"

2010-09-29T15:22:00.001-07:00

I had to post this Tegan and Sara video with a link as the actual embedded video was ginormous.

Tiësto feat. Tegan & Sara - Feel It In My Bones

THOUGHTS

2010-09-29T05:17:00.000-07:00

DECISIONS AND CHOICES

2010-09-27T03:12:00.000-07:00

I get those daily astrology updates and I don't really read them except for fun. That being said, this is a weird one. It's a daily tarot. Why I'm getting these, I have no idea. This one is for Libra, which I am. Which reminds me that in 16 days I'll be 42 and that is one of those 7 year cycle years...

"The Five of Chalices card suggests that an element of suffering could be difficult to handle regardless of your ability to walk away from an unhealthy situation. Denial may be worn like a cloak to hide a fear of intimacy or feelings of vulnerability. Face unresolved issues, loss and emotional baggage. A sobering change, failure or good-bye may be inevitable, but you have reason to be grateful as well as disappointed. Taking a chance and confronting the issue could create an opportunity for reconciliation, commitment, marriage or support that has been waiting in the wings. The situation may actually strengthen the bonds in an existing relationship when a devoted partner or reliable alliance stands by your side throughout the ordeal. When you least expect it, you could find yourself happy again. Trust your heart and open yourself to forgiveness and romance."

MONKEYS ALL THE TIME

2010-09-25T23:20:00.001-07:00

I'm painting two monkey pieces for the Orange Arts Center show and they are looking pretty good so far. It'll be dry time until next week and then we'll see what happens.

In other news: I'm smitten and it is confusing.

as you were.

RESEARCH DAY

2010-09-24T09:35:00.000-07:00

Today is a research and sketch day. Pulled out some reference material from my archived sketchbooks as well as some books (I don't know what I would do without my books).

Rode from Independence to the studio in Lakewood yesterday. 21.5 miles. I'm not up to 96.5 since September 1. :D

MON OEIL

2010-09-22T04:11:00.000-07:00

FYI "mon oeil" is French for "my eye", an expression that is employed when you don't believe what someone is saying or you are casting doubt on a situation.

MY eye, however, my right eye to be exact, was a bit itchy last night so I rubbed it and BOOM all of the sudden it was red and puffy. I didn't think anything of it until I noticed that my cornea is puffed out. I put a cold compress on it and that helped some of the swelling but this morning the cornea is still a bit puffed out and now I fear I may have to go to an ophthalmologist.

I get fairly freaked out about anything eye related and am hoping this thing will go down to normal during the course of the day.

HOW MANY DAYS HAS IT BEEN?

2010-09-21T22:19:00.000-07:00

Ah...I've missed you...

Been biking for the past couple of days and feel really great...as in my blood is coursing through my veins the way it should be and I'm getting enough rest this week as THURSDAY will bring sequestering and drawing and for that I am relieved. I'm itching to start sketching the first piece.

Operation Uncooperative Shelving 2010 has been tackled and so my books (at least 1/2 of them anyway) are finally off the work bench and ready to be perused. The work bench is ready to be worked on and dangit, that's what's happening in this neck of the woods.

As you were.

GALLERY TALK AND CLOSING RECEPTION

2010-09-16T03:25:00.000-07:00

Tonight I'm giving a gallery talk to a group of fourteen at Legation, a gallery around 6:30pm and tomorrow evening is the closing reception for Burrows. I can't believe it's over so soon, though three months is a very good run and my longest show to date.

Been sketching out the portraits for the next series and doing research. I think a trip to Pittsburgh or DC is in order to investigate what I'm looking to do in the background of each piece.

That's all for now. Here's something for your day (and next few in the event I'm too busy to post.)

OH YOU STUPID PHONE

2010-09-04T09:43:00.000-07:00

My texting abilities are all wonked out today (and I guess yesterday, too). Meh.

In other news: Moved stuff from one side of the studio to my "corner" and that's the story with that. This space is a bit more chill thatn the last one and I feel like I can concentrate on the research side in quiet without a T.V. running 24/7. This new portrait series is exciting to me. I've not worked in the fashion that this series will form from since 2002. Here's what I'm talking about...

and so...yeah...that's how I'll be rolling.

I envisioned the work on MDF or some hardboard, but the more I think about it, I'm itching to work on canvas. These last few series of work had me not so disciplined and I am in need of some discipline right now.

IN SEARCH OF...

2010-09-03T20:09:00.000-07:00

Tomorrow brings the physical beginning of the new portrait series.

CLUTCH THIS!

2010-09-02T04:24:00.001-07:00

Ya know when you're having a bad day and there's a band that pulls you out of it by kicking you in the BEEhind?...

so THERE!

DELETE

2010-08-31T04:32:00.000-07:00

I deleted the Stuck in Independence blog as I've not posted to it since May 09 and well, that's just a waste of bandwidth.

Looking forward to driving to work today. The park is gorgeous this time of year as the mornings are cooling down. A lot of woodland critters to be seen.

That's it. Just another tapioca post.

BAH PHOOEY

2010-08-30T15:30:00.000-07:00

Self edit.

FINALLY! MY OWN SPACE!

2010-08-28T06:39:00.000-07:00

This week has been ridiculous and next week isn't looking to let up either. I need a get away and have seriously thinking about getting my camping on before the summer comes to a close. Or perhaps I just need to lay low for a while, which sounds good too.

Moving from one sublet studio to another this weekend where I'll be until November 1st. Then I'll be moving into my very own, shiny new studio at W 78th Street. THANK DOG! I've been on the waiting list at the Screw Factory since November 2009 and I'm done waiting. I mean, cripe! Ya know?

The 78th Street studio space is 600 sq ft and the lighting is great. I'm really happy and can't wait to get in there. :D Now it's time to shop for studio furniture and get that all acquired. :)

Yay me!

SLEEP: THE FINAL FRONTIER

2010-08-25T19:53:00.000-07:00

I finally reign it in and call it an early night only to have sleep elude me because I drank coffee too late in the day whilst working on some writings. Of course, it's a full moon tonight...or so it looks to me because I need stronger glasses. Who knows?

Thursday (that's tomorrow) I move into a new space while wait a bit longer for my space to be built. Friday is another skyperview and I've got a commission that I'm kinda stoked about. More on that later.

Here's The Knack. I heard this on the radio today and it brought be back to all four of us kids dancing in the kitchen to My Sharona. hee!

SHAMAN BIRDS

2010-08-24T05:24:00.000-07:00

In 2006 I was working on a series of what I called "Shaman Birds", basically an extension of the "Nervous Birds" series. That didn't receive a lot of encouragement, which is a whole 'nother story, and so I let it drop.

2010: I started to work on the NFTCU portraits and got all pissed off. Then the bird skull came out again and it's layered and I like it. Big drawing. Yes.

Finally. Time to move on.

THE BROWNS, SKYPE AND OTHER DELIGHTS.

2010-08-22T05:52:00.000-07:00

The Browns lost their second preseason game to the Rams by 2 pts, which isn't too bad considering and I have lots of hope for this football season. Well, I always have lots of hope for our team every football season, but this one in particular I think will be good.

Today I'm doing an interview with Arabella Proffer over Skype with the organizer of Notes from the Cleveland Underground's German exhibition.

And so, I've got to leave the studio I'm subletting by Sept. 1, but have another space thanks to M. Mowery, which I'll be subletting until end of October. Hopefully my space will be built by then because I'll have been on the list for an entire freaking YEAR at that point. ugh.

In other news: I'm shooting a portrait of Arabella so that I'll have two works in the NFTCU show. If I've already mentioned this, well...sorry Chahlie.

Watched Dracula A.D. 1972 yesterday. LOVED IT! I recommend it! You cannot go wrong with Christopher Lee, Peter Cushing, hippies, and the city of London based in the 70s. Just.plain.awesome. Also, there's a character who's always dressed like a monk, which makes me crave a Franziskaner. :)

Here's some Plastic Bertrand Band to jazz up your Sunday:

SLAYER!

2010-08-18T05:16:00.001-07:00

SLAYER!!!!!!!!!!!!

42

2010-08-12T04:37:00.000-07:00

In two months and one day I'll be turning 42 and had thoughts of hiking up to Angel's Landing again, but other things have come up that need tending to first, like everyday living situations. However, I just found out that Early Man is playing Cleveland on Oct. 14th, so that may ease some of the pain.

In other news: this is for someone who's in my thoughts today...this is quite the great video...

INTERESTING NEWS?

2010-08-11T05:13:00.000-07:00

But Will It Make You Happy? from nytimes.com

PERSONAL ADMINISTRATION

2010-08-10T03:32:00.000-07:00

This week is turning out to be more of an administrative week than anything else. In process of booking a gallery talk next Thursday at Legation, a gallery where the Burrows exhibition is currently on display.

In other news: I have been sicker than a sick dog lately and so I'm trying to take it easy before The Big Ride this weekend. Team Oz (me and Kerri) are doing the MS150 Pedal to the Point ride for Multiple Sclerosis. If you hadn't seen the big typefaced post below to donate...here's your chance.

Word!

Thought I'd throw in a little bit of The Dead Weather this morning...

MS150 PEDAL TO THE POINT: TEAM OZ

2010-08-09T13:03:00.000-07:00

We are (and I'm totally serious) $1.00 away from our $1,000 team goal for MS150 Pedal to the Point.

All proceeds go to the National Multiple Sclerosis Society. So I'm asking nicely, why not make a $1.00 (or more) donation so that we can hit our goal?

We'll be riding the bikes, you'll feel better about yourself and the monies go to a great cause...

CLICK HERE TO DONATE TO TEAM OZ!

YUP

2010-08-08T14:47:00.000-07:00

So I had yet another brilliant evening out to dinner with the spectacular CL. I'm all smiley today and starting to feel better after a week of not feeling up to par. I mean, I was really beat and felt like my body was crumbling. I kept falling asleep at the blink of an eye...literally. Something to be said about the healing qualities of rest.

I was going to post The Smiths, but I can't bring myself to do it. Blech. So here's some Van Halen:

TODAY

2010-08-06T09:36:00.000-07:00

It's going to be a long day methinks...

YES, I SEE...

2010-08-04T05:18:00.000-07:00

These guys came to the Beachland Tavern, but they didn't play this song. I really like "Closing In" by Early Man. It's a raucous CD and reminds me of disco Black Sabbath. I give you (without fancy video) Like a Goddamned Rat:

BODY OF CHRIST

2010-08-01T06:12:00.000-07:00

I am going to church with my parents this morning where they may be communion. I've not taken communion in years simply because it's literally a chunk of bread and I start sneezing horrendously. This morning my father hands me a box of gluten free crackers:

Dad: Here. Put a couple of these in your purse in case there's communion.
Me: What? What am I going to do...walk down the aisle and just bring my own?
Dad: Well, the minister doesn't know you have an allergy yet, does he?
Me: Not to my knowledge. Still, isn't he supposed to bless these or something first?
Dad: I've never seen him bless communion.
Me: There's a whole ritual that goes with it, Dad.
Dad: Well...
Me: I suppose I could just walk up and say "no thanks, I brought my own body of Christ in a box. He's gluten free! You can get him at Heinen's."
Dad: You're terrible.

RABBIT RABBIT INTO ANOTHER MONTH

2010-08-01T05:39:00.000-07:00

Moving along on that piece for Notes from the Cleveland Underground exhibition, but before moving any further I've got to brace the back of the painting a little bit better. More dyes to be had on Thursday for the 2182 series as well as more board.

Studio space-wise, I heard that there might be an opening on the third floor and I'm on that like NOBODY'S business! The lighting is beautiful up there, but the walls don't reach the ceiling, which could be an issue.

Other than that, I'm hunting for a small truck as well as a place on the west side. I really liked living in Lakewood and want to be near the studio. It's time...

Saw a red-tailed hawk this morning as I was waking up. So cool. I love the valley!

Here's some Foreigner, because it's funny. My brother had this album:

FRIDAY MORNING

2010-07-30T05:47:00.000-07:00

I'm working on about 15 or so paintings for a restaurant in Brecksville called 2182 (and it's one of my favorite places on EARTH!)

The series is kind of reminiscent of a spectrum. White in the middle and graduating with color to black. I dunno, I like it. The purple/blue ones are my favorite right now. Here's what the orange/yellow looks like so far. Considering adding leafing to the edges and that may make more sense as I move along.

In other news: I'll be creating a new piece for Notes from the Cleveland Underground exhibition to be held in Cologne in 2011. So that means I'll be rooting through steel yards and taking reference shots for it. It also means a lot more research.

In other, other news: Got asked to do some SFX makeup for the Zombie Walk on September 25th. Super stoked on that as well.

That is all...here's some Dandy Warhols:

THE BLOW

2010-07-26T16:13:00.001-07:00

MOVIES I THINK ABOUT

2010-07-24T17:12:00.000-07:00

I've been thinking a lot about the film Let The Right One In and really connect with it on several levels. The soundtrack is very beautiful. Here's something from it.

Also, Twilight can suck it. (See what I did there?)

MORE SUPPORTS AND SUCH AND STUFF AND THINGS

2010-07-23T09:28:00.000-07:00

Got more MDF to cut down and prepare for paintings. Creating 15 small works and possibly a couple of big ones due to the amount of space available. This series will have the same texturing as the Amargosa Valley diptych, but with crushed salt. Looking forward to it. Definitely looking forward to crushing the salt. THAT, my friends, is cathartic!

Got a killer line up so far for the closing reception of Burrows on September 17th. More to come later...

BURROWS OPENING RECEPTION...MISSED IT? COME TO 3RD FRIDAYS!

2010-07-18T05:25:00.000-07:00

Friday's opening reception for Burrows at Legation was a great success! I saw people I've lost touch with or folks I hadn't seen since I moved back to Ohio. The Sights were AWESOME!!!!

It was a great pleasure to interact with people that I didn't know at all who were drawn to the works and wanted to know more about the journey. Thanks to Cool Cleveland, Scene and The Plain Dealer for the mentions and to the PD for the preview in Friday! Magazine. (I was texted this morning by my friend, Laura telling me that I'm in the Sunday Arts section of the PD as well. WOOT!)

This series took a lot of focus and energy and I'm pleased to see it up in its final form. I feel like I've finally walked through the door. I'm glad to be home.

If you missed the opening reception, the 78th Street Studios holds a Third Friday celebration where all the studios and galleries are open for viewing. The next one is August 20, 2010!

MORE PRESS!!!

2010-07-15T14:39:00.001-07:00

This was in today's Plain Dealer previewing the Burrows exhibition.

R.I.P. HARVEY PEKAR

2010-07-13T21:45:00.000-07:00

"...even if you had to work and art failed to be your main identity when accounting for the hours of your day, your voice could be just as radical and sophisticated. The art might have to be elliptical, but there was no reason to set it aside or dismiss the desire to keep striving."
via RonK via Metafilter

Also, Anthony Bourdain rules. This is what he wrote on his blog about Harvey Pekar...

PRESS ME CLOSER!

2010-07-11T13:42:00.001-07:00

Thanks to Cool Cleveland for their promo for my show, Burrows. :)

SUNDAY

2010-07-11T05:00:00.000-07:00

Off to studio this morning and can only communicate via FB as my cell phone charger is M.I.A. harumph.

In other news, there's no other news...

HAUTE TECHNOLOGIE

2010-07-07T03:40:00.000-07:00

So I went to my myspace account, to which I haven't been in a while, to blog about the exhibition and to clean out the horrific chocolate train wreck of a mess that is the INBOX. I have over 5000 emails and there's no way to chuck them all into the abyss at once. This is a huge waste of time and frankly makes me wonder if I should just kill the account all together based on my laziness, but I'm too lazy to do so.

In other news, it's hotter than the fifth level of HELL in that friggin studio. I couldn't even make it through the evening to work on the installation piece and so I'll have to just wait until early Friday morning. The 4pm sun makes it virtually impossible to concentrate. BUT, it is moving along at a good pace.

My brother is coming to town for the opening reception! :D

Also, I'm surrounded by KITTEHS!

Here's some Dalida:

NIGHT HIKIN'

2010-07-06T05:31:00.000-07:00

Finally got to night hike on the towpath yesterday evening and what a spectacular thing it was! Lightning bugs (or fireflies depending on where you're from) were out in the thousands and all blinking like Christmas lights against the silhouetted woods. I've never seen anything so ethereal and breathtakingly beautiful.

I can't wait for Friday.

Some Black Keys:

HAPPY FOURTH OF JULY 2010

2010-07-04T09:37:00.000-07:00

A reminder on this Independence Day

"Thought that is silenced is always rebellious. Majorities, of course, are often mistaken. This is why the silencing of minorities is necessarily dangerous. Criticism and dissent are the indispensable antidote to major delusions." - Alan Barth

I really like that quote. I also feel skeptical each year on the 4th, so here's Skeptical Hippo.

CQ

2010-07-03T08:55:00.000-07:00

Looking for my framing supplies I came across a box of cds I brought back from Vegas. One of them was the soundtrack to the movie CQ by Roman Coppola. I do like this movie, but I really like the music. The original score is by Mellow.

Here's Ce Soir Je Vais Boire by Claude François, which roughly translates to Tonight I'm going to DRINK!: