Sunday, April 28, 2013

Last class!

Hi gang,

Tomorrow will be our last class together, and as promised, we will spend our time working on our promotional package for Barking Dog. It's likely that we will not have the postcards back from the printer, so I'll bring the tracing paper, and we can spend our time cutting it to size.

Last week, Sam came up with a design for the sticker, scanned it, and Tom came up with a few variations. We voted on the silhouette without the eyes, to be printed on an aqua or light blue ground. Dave was to source sticker paper, and Anthony volunteered to format for print. Bring rulers and sharp blades, cutting mats if you have them. See you then!


Monday, April 15, 2013

Promotional Project

Hi all,

After class today, I was mulling over your decision to use twine as a binding device, and had a chat with Mags. We both want to make sure that you test out your idea as a prototype to see how it behaves - will it look as you envisioned; will it look polished (something you were concerned about as a class); will it add unnecessary bulk?

She had some great suggestions about how to use the band/sticker idea to it's best advantage:
Why not use semi-transparent paper (Cathy has a big roll of trace in the shop), with the info about the exhibition printed on it, and a sticker closure, printed with the section of your design that the band is partially obscuring? I don't know about you, but I love the idea. Discuss, get back to me.

Gwen

Tuesday, April 2, 2013

Ziiiiine!!!!

Hi all,

I hope you have all been enjoying your Easter Break, and recharging your batteries for the final hurdle before the finish line, so to speak. I'm sure you're excited that your exhibition Barking Dog is now in sight! To help you make the most of this valuable promotional event, you will be working as a team to design and publish a class 'zine. This independently published piece will include two of your best black and white illustrations, making 34 pages of design work from 17 students. We will be assisted in this project by Caroline, who will be returning from maternity leave to relieve Clare. Caroline has been designing the student handbooks for the past several years, and has lots of experience with this type of design and layout, so we are very fortunate that she has agreed to work this project in conjunction with us!

I will bring samples from previous years to show you on Monday, the 8th of April. All you need to bring on your first day back, are samples of your black and white illustrations, and your notebooks.  Artwork can be from either first or second year, from any class or project; typically work tends to be from Comics and Sequential Art and Representational Illustration, but does not necessarily need to be. Any black and white illustrations will do. Double check that your name is on each piece, and I'll help you make the final selections. Caroline will help you with layout, formatting, and printing, and we will assemble the print copies in my class. And before you ask, YES! I do have a long - arm stapler, for those of you who have an aversion to sewing!

NY Times: Zines Have a Resurgence Among the Web Savvy

Remember to keep on top of your work! Many of you have still not contributed to the Banksy debate - remember, this makes up part of your grade! I will accept no excuses! Check in on Moodle periodically, as I've some new links and instructions posted there. See you all next week!

Saturday, March 9, 2013

Centra Student Design Initiative

Hi all,

This just in: Centra Student Design Initiative. See details by clicking on link:

http://www.centra.ie/

The winner receives a state-of-the-art MacBook, and Centra produces your design on a shopping bag. The proceeds of sales go to fund breast cancer research. Your design gets exposure, and looks great on your CV. The deadline is tight - 15th March, but if you have something you could easily scan and alter, it could be a great opportunity!

Good luck!

Sunday, March 3, 2013

Banksy

Hi all,

There seems to be some confusion about the Banksy assignment. Please read the instructions in the last post carefully - you are meant to engage in a discussion as a class, not email me your answers. It is also important that you include some sort of support for your comment - from the news, from Linda Scales' lecture, from your own research, etc.

Saturday, February 23, 2013

The 'Stolen' Banksy


You may be aware of the recent relocation of a Banksy original, 'Slave Labour', created last year in response to several social and political issues: the Queen's Diamond Jubilee, slave labour, and the Olympics. For anyone unfamiliar with his work, Banksy is an internationally recognized, albeit anonymous, graffiti artist and social commentator. The removal of his 2012 piece raises real questions about ownership, socio economic status, ethics, and copyright. Click on the link below to watch a short youetube video. Apply what you learned from Linda Scales' lecture or your own research, and briefly answer one of the following questions in the comment section below:
  1. Who owns the artwork?
  2. Does 'public art' apply to graffiti? Why, or why not?
  3. Who owns the copyright? Do you agree; why, or why not?
  4. Who makes the profit from the sale? Do you think this is fair?
  5. How does the community feel about this, and how does it make you feel as an artist?
  6. How have legal issues, such as the illegality of graffiti, affected the ownership of the art work?
  7. How have legal issues such as the illegality of graffiti affected the identity of the artist Banksy?
  8. Do you think Banksy's work is art?

You may approach this assignment in the form of a dialogue, where you respond to a previous comment. I expect your response by next week. Be sure to include your own opinion, diplomatically expressed, and a reference to Linda's lecture, or your own research.
Linda's Power Point presentation can be found on our Moodle page. While we get ourselves familiar with the format (including log in issues), We will discuss here. 


Usernames

Hi all,

I see only two of you have logged onto Moodle, and whilst checking the statistics, I noticed that the usernames appear different to my previous instructions. Please try:

first.last@bcfe.ie

I think this may fix the log in problems.

I will be posting a new assignment on Monday, so be sure you check it out.

Make sure you're staying on top of your assignments, and if you missed any deadlines such as the 25 interview answers, or your CV and Artist Statement, send them to my bcfe email address. There are plenty of resources to help you on Moodle.

As always, any questions or comments can be sent to me via the comments section below.

Wednesday, February 13, 2013

Moodle

Hi all,

I know Emma posted info about Moodle on Facebook, and those of you who were in heard me talking about it. I've been uploading information, links, instructions &etc. to Moodle over the last couple of days. As we will be using the platform for communications over the next couple of weeks, it's very important that you are able to access the site. 

Moodle is accessed from the BCFE website. 
  • On the right hand sidebar, select Moodle. 
  • Login at the top right of the page. 
  • Enter your Username and Password…Your Username and Password are the same as those assigned to you at the beginning of the year.
  • If this username does not work try the Password: changeme
  • You will then be prompted to change the Password to something that suits you.  
  • Follow the links from Art, Design and Graphics > AIH2 > Visual Arts Practice) 
  • You will see 'not activated' in big red letters. Ignore this. It is active. 
  • If you have trouble, don't be shy; let me know! 

Also, you all have college email addresses. Please activate them by googling 'outlook'. Once on the site you will be prompted to sign in. 
  • Your user name is: first initial followed by last name@bcfe.ie  Ie: jali****kas@bcfe.ie (*for privacy)
  • Password: your student password. If this doesn't work, or you have forgotten it, try typing 'changeme', and you will be prompted to change your password. Again, let me know if you have problems.





Monday, February 11, 2013

Interview Questions and Schedule

Hi all,

I hope you're enjoying your mid term break! Remember to answer 25 of the Interview Questions, save as .doc, and email to me. Emma has posted some info on your class blog, mostly directing you to Moodle, from where you will be able to download your own copy of the questions.

I'll also be posting a schedule on Moodle, but just in case, I'll also post it here:

18th Feb:
10:00  Sean
10:30  Sam
11:00  Robert
11:30  Anthony

25th Feb:
10:00  Ciara
10:30  Ed
11:00  David
11:30  Robert N

4th March:
10:00  Victoria
10:30  Ray
11:00  Thomas
11:30  Sarah

11th March:
10:00  Justinas
10:30  Emma
11:00  Annie
11:30  Leon
12:00  John

For your appointment, remember:

  • You MUST be on time. If you are late, you will loose time, not the person after you, and you will loose points toward your overall grade.
  • Include your EDITED portfolio with sketchbook(s)
  • Bring a copy of your CV and Artist Statement


Saturday, January 26, 2013

Linda Scales Lecture

Hi all,

Just a reminder about our guest lecturer this Monday. We will meet at the normal time, in the lecture room in the prefab (23).  Linda Scales will be lecturing on copyright and written contract issues as they pertain to artists specifically. You will find the link to her website on the links sidebar to the right. You will remember I mentioned in class, that she also writes copy for Visual Artists Ireland (see links sidebar). You can see an example of her written work on that website in the info pool. Come prepared to ask a question - this is a rare opportunity to pick the brain of a solicitor who works with intellectual property rights in Ireland. In the past few years, she has been focusing on digital issues. I think you'll find it interesting. See you there!

As usual, send any questions through the comments box below.

Monday, December 17, 2012

Goal Met!

Dear all,

I thought you all would be dying with anticipation, so I decided to post asap to let you know the results of our fund raising efforts. In total, the class raised a grand total of e522.92 (not including the float). So well done to all of you who participated and worked hard - it's nice know your efforts can pay off!

The first class of the second term (7th January), we will wrap things up. All remaining inventory is being stored in Mag's office. Make sure you pick up what's left, document the total remaining stock, and what you should have made in profit. We will go over this in class, as well as take a look at the inventory lists to make sure everything adds up.

As we agreed in class, those who made above the target profit (e24) will have the option to pool this money in the class fund in the bank, or request to be reimbursed for material costs. If the class kitty holds more than the cost of your exhibition, that money can be used for framing purposes.

As always, any questions can be submitted via the comment box below.

And finally: Happy Christmas, everyone!

Saturday, December 15, 2012

Schedule for Monday


Hi all,

Remember that your 1st Term submission is due on Monday as well. You can drop them in to the resource room, in a box I will have labelled with your class, before or after your shift.

So here's the schedule for Monday:


                         Art Building                                      Main Building

10-11                  Lorna T                                             Robert V
                           Jade C                                                Ray W
                           Victoria J                                           Fiona M

11-12                 Ria K                                                 Justinas A
                          Sam K                                                Anthony B
                          Dierdre C                                            Mary W
                       

12-1                   Sean G                                               David E                                                                
                          Fionnuala B                                       Annie Q
                          Rebecca                                             Doireann C
                          Adrian D                                            Debbie M

1-2                    Ciara M                                              Vrindavna
                         Ed D                                                   Michelle C
                         Inam                                                    Emma H

2-3                    Tom C                                                Fiona G
                         Michelle S                                           Bianca K
                         Lisa Marie                                           Robert N
                         Sarah E                                               John D

Please be punctual - notice that you are all on for one hour, and that both classes are mixed, and divided between the two buildings. Divide and conquer! I have put up the excellent posters that Sean designed and printed, and I've also sent a mass email to all the teachers and admin of both buildings, so we are sure to be quite busy. See you then, and best of good fortune with your continued fund raising efforts!

Wednesday, December 12, 2012

Post Mingle Market

Hi all,

I have received confirmation from Maureen Conway to go ahead with our in house sale on Monday, 17th of December. Louise has given her permission for you to work your sales technique rather than your life drawing technique. I'm sure she would appreciate a thank you.

We will begin setting up at 10am, and begin packing up at 3:00pm. We'll split our stock in half so we can set up at both buildings. This is an event that people in the college look forward to, so we should do well. Having said that, if you were considering a reduction in your pricing, now would be the time to do it - as we all know, students are on a budget.

I'll post a schedule on the blog, which Emma can forward to Facebook. She's very good at looking after you all! As per usual, any questions can be sent via the blog comments box below.

SEAN: can you modify and print 20 new posters? I'll follow up via txt if I don't hear from you by the end of the day Wednesday. I have shown samples to some of the staff, and they are looking forward to seeing the rest! Even a pre-order for you, Leon.....


Friday, December 7, 2012

Ready......Set.....Mingle!

Hi all,

Tomorrow we see how all our hard work paid off.......so remember to dress fancy, if you feel so inclined, and bring your cameras!

See you all there!

P.S. Just looking through what you guys gave me, and I see a couple of details that could use some attention before we sell our wares, and put ourselves and our reputations out there:

Robert N - the cards turned out great, but where are the envelopes? Inventory? Prices?

Sam - you did not include pricing. Also, are your tags all hand made, or are they photocopies? It's important we know.

Sean - how much for the wrapping paper, and, how will we package these to go - to keep it clean, what if it rains, etc.

Vrin, John Leon - have you made arrangements for someone to bring your cards? Included inventory list and price list?

Victoria - hoping you are all right, haven't seen you in weeks.

Anthony?

Remember, everything involved with this project is a large part of your grade, so follow through, presentation, and participation are all important!


Saturday, December 1, 2012

Mingle Ferociously....in one Week!



Hi all,

The market sale is in one week's time, and I imagine you're all as excited as I am! As promised, I am including the roster below. Remember to bring everything in on Monday for our practice set-up: your products, packaging, decorations, tape and scissors, cash box, displays, inventory lists. I am aware you still need some production time, so we will spend half the class on making. 

10:30 - 12:30,   Set - Up  
  • Emma - cash box, fairy lights
  • Sean
  • Anthony
  • Victoria
12:30 - 2:30
  • John
  • Ed
  • Ciara
  • Robert
2:30 - 4:30
  • Vrindavana
  • Justinas
  • Leon
4:30 - 6:30     Wrap - Up
  • Annie
  • Tom
  • David
I spoke with Rainey today, and she has logged our places near the coffee bar in her book. There is limited wall space here, as there are banners and an art installation. Tables are approx 6'x3'. Remember that I will be bringing blue tack, Roses, wrapping paper, and an electric heater should we need it. Does anyone have a small folding table we could use to wrap items?

Now is the time to promote the event, so create an event on Facebook, and get the word out! I look forward to seeing the promotional poster on Monday - would it be possible to include the Fibre Art students on the poster as well? Post comments in the box below.

And finally, a clip to wrap up - note Rainey's love of Fancy Dress, inspired by Victoriana and Steam Punk:



Saturday, November 10, 2012

Market Booked!

Hi all,

I'm pleased to announce that I have secured our booking for the Ferocious Mingle Marcade for the 8th of December, despite the fact we are still shy of the booking fee. If you have not yet contributed, please see me or Emma.

By now, you should be well on your way to finalizing your design selection, sourcing and costing your supplies, and finding comparable items for analysis. Remember to bring your supplies to class on Monday, as we will be making, as well as planning.

A good place to go for inspiration and comparison is etsy:

Etsy: online Handmade Marketplace

Remember to document items, including materials, processes used, and price. Items you have sourced for comparison analysis purposes will be part of your submission.

See you all on Monday!











Saturday, November 3, 2012

Mid Term


Hi all,

I hope you all have enjoyed the Mid-Term break as much as I have. Now that the weekend is here, my thoughts are moving forward towards Monday....and I can't wait to see what you all have come up with for our class sale! Remember to bring in your proposals (see handout), which we will critique together. I'll also be bringing a few books for inspiration, which may help some of you to refine your ideas. We will be planning and making in class for the next 4 weeks coming up to the date of the event, on the 8th  of December.

Now, I have not as yet secured our place at the 'Mingle', as we are still short of funds. Make sure you see me about this issue, so we can book asap!


I saw a few of you at the Illustrated Beatles opening at the Grand Social, featuring work from our very own Margaret Ann Suggs - great art, great night.


With Design Week starting the 5th, you should be able to find some more inspiration around and about town. The Brainbelt Illustration Collective looks particularly interesting, with disciplines varying from sculpture, print, and multimedia. At Filmbase, Curved Street, Temple Bar, 5th-11th.

See you all Monday.


Tuesday, October 16, 2012

Ferocious Mingle!

Hi all,

I have an exciting announcement for you. I spoke with Rainey Gibney of Ferocious Mingle, and she has confirmed that she would welcome us as vendors at her uber-cool market. If you haven't been there, you will find it across the street from NCAD at 72 Thomas Street. To get you started, have a look at their website:

http://theferociousminglemarcade.com/

The market operates from 11-6, Thursday through Sunday, and benefits from footfall of both NCAD students, and tourists en route to the Guinness Store. I have been to visit on a Saturday, and it was busy. Added bonuses for us: it's indoors, and they serve really good coffee and sweets at reasonable rates. We can rent a space for a day for 30 euro.

To secure our place, we will need to pay up front, which we should do asap. I'm grateful to Louise for covering for me yesterday, and that you discussed practical matters related to the sale, such as time management, establishing your reputation, and up-front funding. We have several options here, but if everyone is willing to pitch in e1.50, I can pay for and secure our place at the market. I suggest that the class rep collect money from everyone, and leave it in Marita's office for me to collect tomorrow if possible, if not - Thursday. Please contact me via the comments below, or through Mags to confirm you wish to proceed.

Regarding the date of the sale, that depends on timing in relation to printing, but we should definitely select a Saturday or Sunday. As most of the class will be producing illustrations for stationery items like cards and labels, earlier in December is better than later. However, if we need a bit more time, consider designs that are not seasonal. People will be looking for presents for Christmas, or for themselves.

If you haven't yet been to the market, pop in to help you prepare. Make a few notes about the space, and what you think you will need on the day. We'll go over everything in class. Look at what the other vendors are selling, what their pricing is like, and how they're set up. Take a few photos (with permission).

I hope you are all as excited as I am about this opportunity for your class - both to raise funds, and as practical experience in selling your designs. With proper planning, the day should be very enjoyable. I will, of course, be there to help and guide you all (and maybe help hawk your wares).....



Sunday, October 7, 2012

Schedule Change

Hi all,

I'm sure you've heard of the schedule change via Facebook; just reinforcing. New details for Visual arts Practice are as follows:

Monday 10-12, Studio 22

Remember to bring your PEST and SWOT handouts from last week.

See you tomorrow.

Wednesday, October 3, 2012

Copper House

Hi all,

I thought I'd let you know that I've been to the Copper House Gallery, and had a wee advanced peek at Una Gildea's work. I highly recommend a viewing, but in particular I would encourage you to attend the opening, tomorrow evening from 6-8. The artist will be in attendance to answer questions, as well as industry professionals. And the space is impressive, especially when you venture past the front gallery. Copper House has an impressive set-up of high-quality, large-scale scanners and printers. They specialize in limited edition photography and fine art print. The interior architecture is inspired. Here's a link to the event:

http://www.culturefox.ie/event/tales-of-seduction-an-exhibition-by-una-gildea/13732.aspx