2nd Annual West Branch Children's Film Festival!

West Branch Children's Film Festival is working on the 2nd Annual fest for July 9-10, 2010. If you're a filmmaker with a family-friendly movie, or a filmmaker who wants to inspire a younger generation of actors, directors, etc. check out the site- http://wbcff.com
The committee is looking for submissions of films, videos, documentaries, etc. from children and/or for children. ANY age can submit a movie, but it must be G or PG (PG-13 must be mentioned ahead of time).
They are also looking for professionals for workshops for the event. If you're an actor, director, producer, cameraperson, sound tech, make-up, special effects, writer, etc. the WBCFF would love to have your talents shared with the festival! If you can't make it to the festival itself, there are workshops leading up to the festival January through July. PLEASE spread the word! You might know someone who would like to participate. ALSO-looking for judges for the submissions.

POPEYE series(so far) in one tidy post

I just wanted to put my "Popeye" series to date up on one post. If you want the story behind the series, click HERE. But here's the eye candy. The ones in color are oil paintings and the black and white is graphite. I plan on doing more in the series.

Older posted artwork

I know I post images of my artwork often, but I also have a link here on the blog to see my earier posted work. Here's the link-http://picasaweb.google.com/jasonnuttallart/WelcomeToNuttallArt#
Leave a comment and let me know what you think. PLEASE!!!! My arrogance and self esteem need the fuel!

even more thoughts on my art

I love seeing the reaction of my 'muses' at the work I've done of them.

more thoughts on my art

Drawing/painting/photography/printmaking to me is the opportunity to use what God gave me, and take advantage of skills I've learned.

My thoughts on my art

I share my abilities as an artist to show my appreciation for those who inspire me in art & life.

It's done! (I think)

I might have a couple touch ups to do and sign it, but here is the completed oil painting I've done of Popeye, Swee' Pea and Olive Oyl. I enjoy this one a great deal. Let me know what you think.

Drum roll....new painting...NOW!

I'm working on a series of artwork inspired by Popeye and the film of the same monicker from 1980. This is the 3rd piece I've done. The other two are here on the blog somewhere. Just type in "Popeye" to the search. This piece isn't done yet, but I'm excited at its progress. Let me know what you think.

Not live in New York...

The local paper, The Ogemaw Herald, wrote an article about my documentary. Here's a link to it online . The title of the article is a little off-putting, as I was not accepted into an art exhibit in New York. The gallery owner liked my work enough and said I could participate for a fee, which was beyond my price range (as in, not free) and the exhibit was only for a week.

What I'm doing

Alright, cats 'n' Kittens, this is what I've been doing. I'm working on what I'm hired to do, which is commission work. I'm trying to fit in what I need to do, which is figurative work. I've been painting and drawing what I WANT to do, which right now is my Popeye series and my Jack Nicholson series. I have to do the commission work, I need to do the figurative work and I want to do my series work. All the while being a father and husband.
We're still working on the documentary but with no galleries interested in my work and no art shows or events coming up, we're at a standstill. Plus the distance between me and the documentarian is almost 3 hours in the winter!

Nuttall Art Christmas special, one week only!

1wk Christmas special: b/w portrait between 8x10-16x20 for only $55. Color portrait costs $65.That's a one subject portrait. Each additional subject = $15 ea. Offer ends Wednesday, December 9, 2009!

Support for a local?

I've been directed to a gallery in New York in hopes of getting interest in my work and maybe exhibiting in said gallery. I contacted the gallery owner and he said that my work is "cool, unique and good shape". Having said that, he gave me the info on his next exhibit in December, which to me means he likes my work enough to have me show in his gallery. However, he requires a fee of $400 to cover advertising, reception and other expenses. Now, here's the glitch: I have no money. Zero. Zilch. So that opportunity slips through my fingers.
It's been suggested that maybe I can ask the West Branch community to show their support for one of their own in his pursuit of making it as a successful artist. I'm not looking to move to New York or California, mind you. I would want to stay in West Branch because it is my home and I've always loved this small community. I want to be a success story from West Branch, as West Branch natives Dita Von Teese and Marvel Comics writer Daniel Way have become. The difference being, I don't want to leave!
That same suggestion recommended having a fundraiser to get me exhibited in New York, or even Chicago or California. But the thought comes to mind "What if I throw a fundraiser and nobody comes?"

One step closer....

I can't remember if I've posted about this, but I've been in contact with an art dealer in Northern Michigan who is interested in my work. She's said that she would like to see me do some figurative oil paintings because her gallery is missing that kind of work. Recently she mentioned that she has clients interested in black and white work as well, which opens up my opportunities a great deal. I have ideas in mind, and a couple models lined up. However, I still have commission work to finish before I can focus on the work for the art dealer. I'm very excited about this chance and REALLY don't want to blow it! I have alot of old photos I can work from from my photography days, but I also want to work with live models. My hands begin shaking as I think of all the things I can be working on! Then I remember- I don't really have any studio space for these models to pose or space to work with good lighting and, well, space.
Hmm.

HAHAHAHAHAHAHAHA!!

If you are reading this due to my Twitter post about skin, I really don't know what to say. If you're checkin' ME out for fleshy visualization, then I tip my hat to ya! You are brave, curious or just desperate for Nuttall lovin'!

I'm in a mood

Ok, I'm feeling kinda down and VERY smart ass/snarky. I've decided to randomly make wise-ass comments on Facebook, Twitter and whereever the hell else I can. DO you know why?

Me either. But it's what I do well.

Office Space in my dreams

Recently I've found some office space in my hometown that I thought would make good studio space. The rent is fantastic, but I just can't swing it. It is VERY reasonable. I invited other artists to come in and share price. They can come in whenever they want and use the space without worries, but nobody seemed interested. I know that it seems dumb to be so upset about this, but the price is perfect and I'm ashamed that I can't take advantage. I need an open studio where I can have models, set up shoots, paint in a well-lit area, and display work. I can't continue to work the way I'm going. But in the condition things are in, I will have to suck it up and pass on this great opportunity. Even my wife thinks it's a great deal and would be good for me, but the money just isn't coming in regularly enough to pay monthly.

Prowling the streets...

This Halloween was a good one, except for the cold and the kids being sick. My wife and I worked together to make 3yr old Logan's Popeye costume. I could NOT find any kid's Popeye costume in stores OR online anywhere. Not even Ebay! I made my own costume, including the corncob pipes Logan and I sported. I asked him if he wanted me to be Bluto, Wimpy or Poopdeck Pappy, Popeye's dad. He insisted on Pappy.

This was Mikey's first year as Spider-Man. He had a tough time with the mask so spent half the night without it. Rebecca was Batgirl. I can't BELIEVE how slutty the costume looks! Because of the cold, we had her wear a long sleeve black shirt and black pants, which I think looked great! I don't know what the hell the designers were thinking for this outfit for little girls!

Logan wanted to go home after the 3rd street, and Mikey was WILLING to go home after the 4th.

Popeye Painting update

I'm not quite done with the painting but here's the difference since the last posting of the Popeye painting. The current image (the lower one) isn't a great photo, so the colors are the same as before if not more vibrant.

As Good as it gets

This is the oil pastel I drew at the Art de Combat 3, winning the 1st Place prize (well, kind of. I tied with someone else).

Thank you to documentarian Pauline Johnson for filming and sending me the photos!

And the co-winner IS....

The Art de Combat 3 went very well. I had a blast. I think returning artists stepped up their games. It was nice to see some different artists there. I did win First Place. Well, I tied with First Place and we split the winnings. And last I'd seen, the drawing at the silent auction was bought for $75. It's always refreshing to hear the positive reactions to my artwork, even if I'm not thrilled with the piece. I liked the final project, but I was working in dim light for an hour and a half and I can easily see myself working on it more, but se la vi (spelled wrong. I can say it, not spell it). I will be part of the next combat, which will be April or May 2010 at Enchante Gallery.
I do have to admit that I feel bad when other artists tell me they won't win because I'm competing. It's nice to know they have that confidence in me, but then I don't want them feeling self conscience about their abilities. An event like this is stressful enough. Hell, I didn't even choose what I was going to do until 2 minutes before the shotgun start! No pressure, eh? I didn't know what to draw and I didn't know if I was going to paint, draw in graphite or charcoal, or draw in oil pastel. I eventually chose oil pastel and did a Jack Nicholson portrait. Photos will be posted soon.
I want to congratulate all the artists involved for surviving Art de Combat 3! It takes balls just to sign up, and it takes talent and inner strength to complete a project with judging eyes on you in a 3 hour period. Good job!

Kids and Combat

Well, tomorrow is Saturday, Oct. 17, my little boy's 3rd birthday. It's ALSO my daughter's and older son's last soccer games for the year, my wife's Girl Scout meeting (she's a Brownie troop leader) and the Art de Combat 3 at Enchante Gallery.
I'm still not sure what to do for the battle, although I'm NOT worried. I just have to figure out what medium to work with that allows a finished project in the 3 hour time frame, and the subject I'll be portraying. It's between Jack Nicholson, Popeye(from the live action movie), get a live model, or Curly from the 3 Stooges.
Last time I didn't decide on medium or subject until the starter gun went off. I used charcoal to create a Sean Connery drawing. I don't really want to repeat the medium, but who knows?

Aragones MADness

I just found some footage of Sergio Aragones during his "Cartooning with Sergio" segment of his exhibit at the Ojai Valley Museum. It got me nostalgic for my meeting him and Stan Sakai in 2007. I posted about that great day here .
Thank you, Eric, for posting your footage on Youtube, for those who could not make it to this great event at this great exhibit.

I Yam What I Yam and it is what it is

This is the graphite drawing I'm working on based on the "Popeye" 1980 film with Robin Williams and Paul L. Smith playing Bluto. It's not quite done to my satisfaction, but I couldn't wait to share it. Please let me know what you think.

Blow Me Down!

This is the first piece of my Popeye series. This is a photo of the unfinished oil painting. I love Popeye. It was the first thing I remember drawing as a kid, and this movie is one of the first things I remember seeing. As I grew older, I began studying Popeye's history, and found that the 1980 movie, with the exception of the musical numbers, was pretty accurate to the EC Segar comic strip of the 20s and 30s. Hell, the musical numbers actually pay homage to the Fleischer Studios Popeye cartoons too.
I've been doodling Popeye my entire life, but I wanted to do Popeye as I can. I've done my comic book style of Popeye, but my artistic focus is in portraiture. So, I decided to do a series of Popeye artrwork based on the live action movie. I'm also working on a graphite drawing of Popeye and Bluto simultaneously.
Feels good. Feels right.

I PASSED!

Do you recognize the object in the photo? Yes, that is a pencil. And what is that next to the end of the pencil? That is what has caused me great pain for the last 2-3 weeks. It is a kidney stone. Yeah, that's right, I took a photo of my kidney stone that passed through my urinary tract (which is uber thin. Thinner than thin spaghetti BEFORE being cooked) and out my clinically proven narrow urethra. That's right, I shot rocks out of my wang. AND a shard that was smaller and kinda see-thru.

Truth to tell, I'm damn proud of this lil guy. This is the 4th time I've had kidney stones. The last batch was bigger than this one and had to be blown up while still in my kidney so it could be passed, using vibrations. Hurt like hell. The pain doesn't come just from the passage but the build up from the stone blocking the passageway; like stepping on a hose before it's turned on.

Respect the Dom

I can't believe I haven't posted this drawing here!

I drew this graphite portrait of Ruth Buzzy and the late Dom DeLuise shortly after his death. I have always enjoyed watching him and have a great deal of respect for him. I hope you enjoy it. I know I do. I love looking at it. I wanted to create a more serious portrait of him, because although he is a comedy legend, his dramatic acting was powerful as well. It was between this image and one from a great little film he did called "Fatso", one of my favorites of his. Funny, sweet and sad.

I Brightest Day...

Disregard the wear and tear. I made it up for my 4 year old and this is what happens when they find out that paint can be picked off. I'll touch it up soon.

As I'm sure EVERYONE here knows, the Justice League Unlimited toy series never made a Green Lantern Hal Jordan figure. I KNOW! Outrageous, ain't it? Well, I decided to take matters into my own hands, grabbed my acrylics, and took a spare figure. The colors under my keen paint job is of a Superman figure

NUTTALL ART OCTOBER DEAL

I will start a new deal: graphite or charcoal drawing of one person for only $50!!! Any additional person in the portrait is an additional $15 each. If you live outside of West Branch, s/h will be added to the price. Contact me if interested. Great gift for Christmas. This doesn't apply to anyone I've already talked to before Monday about artwork. Even if you aren't interested, maybe you know somebody who is. Come on, it's $50 for original artwork, roughly 9x12-18x24. Fantastic deal. If you want an oil painting or oil pastel drawing, the regular price applies. I have a family to feed, people!

Video of me drawing Jack

So here's a link to another video of me drawing. Let me know what you think.
Facebook Home

Tooning it up in West Branch

I was asked to do caricatures/portraits at the St. Joseph Elementary School festival/fair today from 12-5. I said yes, because I like to be a show-off. I'm charging more than usual but only because part of the money goes towards St. Joe's. It's $15 for a caricature and $25 for a quickie portrait, most likely charcoal. If you're in the area stop on by. Or just send your money.

Music video premiere: Uncle Kracker's 'Smile' filmed in Michigan | Detroit Entertainment - - MLive.c

Thanks to Barry Stutesman of Michigan Magazine for adding this link about Uncle Kracker's newest video. I'm not so much an Uncle Kracker fan (I don't know his music enough to judge), but I GREATLY appreciate the fact that he filmed his video in Michigan in his hometown of Mt. Clemens and also a little bit in Hale, not far from West Branch and around the corner from my uncle's cabin.
Music video premiere: Uncle Kracker's 'Smile' filmed in Michigan Detroit Entertainment - - MLive.c

And now for something completely different...

I will have to ease up on these babies, as my doctor told me this morning I have type 2 diabetes.

I went in for kidney stones....

http://www.facebook.com/p.php?i=587982366&k=5WBUQ3T4ST6G6BD1SF2XWTRRR&oid=1237608100919

Recent drawing of Eric Clapton. It's a graphite and roughly between 9x12 and11x14 http://www.facebook.com/p.php?i=587982366&k=5WBUQ3
T4ST6G6BD1SF2XWTRRR&oid=1237608100919
And, of course, it's for sale. $50.

New updates

Here's an update:
Alot of brainstorming for the documentary. Hit a few walls in getting gallery attention, but that's nothing new. I don't have any new projects so there's no money coming in. Right now I've got a recurring ailment that's kicking my butt. I started on a Jack Nicholson drawing. It's a more detailed rendering, like the old days. I've gotten into a bit of a lull of drawing or painting quickly to get things done for events or keep prices down for clients. I've come to miss the articulate photo rendering that I've prided myself on.
Once I get some money around, I will be entering the Art de Combat 3 at the Enchante Gallery in West Branch, Michigan on Saturday, October 17th from 4-7pm. $20 at the door to get in, but you get to vote, drink and eat all you want.
I'm planning on doing a series of Popeye drawings and paintings, as well as Nicholson.
The West Branch Artist Pool exhibit will be up until October 15th at Kirtland Community College in Roscommon. The reception went well. Alot of positive feedback.
I think that's all for now. Chest pains are kicking in.

Is this blog on?? hello?

If you read my blog, please write me so I know I'm not cramping my hands typing for nothing...
jasonnuttall@yahoo.com

Hoping they fall FAR from the tree in the jeenyus department

My kids are becoming great little artists! My youngest is turning 3 next month and he's already drawing faces. My oldest is very talented in art and in sports, and is smart as a whip. My oldest boy (the middle one, 5 next month) has the best comedic timing I've ever seen for a kid under 10 years old, and his drawing has been improving considering he has his dad's attention span.
Hope become doctors. With art as a side thing, so they can support their lame artist dad.....

The incessant ramblings of a simple minded schmo

I know it's just me whining, but what the hell. It's my blog.
Does anyone realize just how hard it is to follow a dream? How hard it is to put important things aside to reach one's goal? I got kicked in the nuts by reality yet again today as my daughter's birthday was to be celebrated and I was trying to sell artwork to get money for a gift. I am unemployed and one reason is because I can't get hired by anyone. Another reason is that if I have a job, how will that affect my working as an artist? And that's it right there. I've worked my whole life (though a short life, I realize) trying to make it as an artist or be discovered, to no avail. I am too stubborn to move because I have this ridiculous notion that if I keep working at it, I WILL become a successful artist out of a small town. I keep referring to the "Ralph Cramden" syndrome, where I get these hair-brained ideas of how to succeed or make money, with a wife behind me rolling her eyes, with just cause. She has seen the ups and downs of my experiences and has grown weary of the downs. The ups justify the downs, I say, but usually only for a brief while. I have become a bit of a star chaser, in that if I catch wind of celebrity, I whip up something to try and grab their attention, in hopes of making a connection or being discovered. This isn't ALWAYS the case. Alot of times I am genuinely inspired by someone and wish to convey my appreciation of what they do or have done. My way to show appreciation is through my artwork.
One of the things which drive me in my pursuit of this career in art is inspiration. I FEEL inspired just thinking of the fact that I have met some of the great men who have inspired me in life. Through my artwork I have met the man who inspired me to draw as a child. Through my artwork I have spoken eye to eye with the man who continues to create music that lifts my spirits and has since junior high. How can someone not feel good when hearing that?
Another thing that pushes me to continue is the same thing I fear. I don't want to let my kids down. I don't want to tell them to never give up and reach for their stars when I, myself have given up. That is why I won't give up. I need to be strong for them. I need to prove to them now and in the future that what daddy is working for is what he loves. But at the same time, to be an artist in this day and age is to struggle and compete and live with failure in hopes that success will be found. The emotional battle that is to be embarked on takes its toll on a person, when the purpose of their livelihood is to capture another's attention with something they created and make a living off of that slim chance that other person's interest is piqued enough to invest in something as unimportant to everyday life as a portrait.
And why am I trying to do a documentary of myself and my "career"? Because every so often, someone tells me that they are inspired by my stories of meeting the man who got me into drawing or the musicians who burn their songs into my mind. Somebody who doesn't know better says my children must be proud of me. For me, the drive is the inspirations which lead to the drawing board. I have seen various documentaries that have inspired me to want to tell my story. I recently met a woman who is building my need to meet my final inspiration, the last man on my "If I could meet anyone, who would it be?" list. It builds inside, then something pulls the pillars away and teeters my motivation.
That's about all for now. Just needed to vent.

JUST ANNOUNCED

I have confirmed that the West Branch Artist Pool Exhibit reception at Kirtland Community College is set for Wednesday, September 16 from 6-8pm at the KCC Art Gallery. I will be one of the exhibitors, as well as other members of the Pool. Joe Donna, the curator, asked if we, the Pool, would be interested in having this be an annual exhibit same time every year. I think that's great for those who couldn't show this time or new artists to the Pool.
The show will be up by Thursday, Sept. 10 and will be up until the end of September.

Facebook | My Photos - Wall Photos

This is my design for the West Branch Artist Pool exhibit poster:
Facebook My Photos - Wall Photos

Facebook | My Photos - Wall Photos

This is my design for the West Branch Artist Pool exhibit poster:
Facebook My Photos - Wall Photos

Wanna work again

Well, for the most part, my events for the summer are over. No more outings to sell, no "art on the streets", and no teaching. Kinda sad, since I didn't get to do alot this summer. I did alot of "money making" artwork, works that weren't as fulfilling for me. I want to get back to that: drawing or painting for me or for gallery or juried shows, rather than quickie artwork. I don't feel as much satisfaction from that work. I don't feel like they're jury exhibit material. But at the same time, I have to makes me money, even though I haven't sold much lately. I have the West Branch Artist Pool Kirtland exhibit coming up, so I might try to do some "old school" rendering.

Where to begin??

This is the list of projects I would like to work on:

1. Start the documentary about my art career and life
2. Artwork for the Art Village on Ojibway in Saginaw on Saturday, Aug. 22.
3. Artwork for the West Branch Artist Pool exhibit at Kirtland this Fall
4. Finish VIETMIME graphic novel
5. Series of Jack Nicholson drawings and paintings
6. Series of Sammy Hagar artwork with an exhibit in mind
7. More Plein Air projects
8. Work from models more often (my kids, wife, friends, etc)
9. Enter more art shows
10. Work in more oil paint, oil pastel, and back to more detailed work.

That's all I can think of for now. I'm sure I'm forgetting alot.

Art in the Park

I've been teaching here and there so I haven't had a chance to post here. Heh.

This is the painting I worked on for the West Branch Artist Pool Plein Air event. Still gotta finish it, with a few touch ups, but I'm pretty happy with it (especially since I worked thru a rain storm and was the only one who showed up).

The West Branch Children's Film Festival last weekend seemed to go well, even though it rained the last day. I did caricatures in front of the headquarters, but not many patrons. I'm thinking of doing some artwork downtown today if the weather gets better.

Movie of Jason the Artist (?)

SO, I've been want to do a documentary of my life as an artist. The work I do, my inspirations, the events I display at or participate in to get my abilities seen, and the struggles involved in trying to make a career and living while raising a family in a small town. I hope to be a part of the new Traverse City comic convention, the Cherry Capital Con ( www.cherrycapitalcon.com ) and the group I've put together, the West Branch Artist Pool, is going to have an exhibit at Kirtland Community College. So, I need to get new work done for those events, plus work my gig at Olan Mills, teach at Kirtland and the Midland Center For The Arts, finish VIETMIME and keep my kids alive. No small task, the lil daredevils.
BUT, the person I have to film and edit the documentary is concerned that my story is too all over the place and asks what my focus is and doesn't want to start until I figure it out. I thought we'd film different events, different days and interview people who know me or know of my work and see what we have. I don't know. It's starting to feel like thismight not happen. The process of getting the film started is a great example of what I'd want in the film. Trying to do something, only to see it fall apart. Any ideas?

Art in nature today in the Park

I know it's supposed to rain today, but I've had this West Branch Artist Pool Plein Air in Iron's Park set up for a month or more. I don't get OUT to paint often. I need to practice my landscape/scenery artwork.

My imaginary agenda that might come true

I have alot of things I want to do right now. Here is a list:

-Do a documentary. Of me. Very arrogant. But honest.
-Have an exhibit solely of my Sammy Hagar artwork. Around the time and place he tours in Michigan.
-Set up an art show of the West Branch Artists' Pool in West Branch
-Organize a plein air in Irons' Park (on location art outing) July 26th with the Artists' Pool
-Do more shows/fairs/events

Gift ideas gone very well

In the last couple months, I've offered deals for Mothers' Day and Father's Day. I didn't get alot of takers, but these drawings were done for Mothers' Day and Fathers' Day, respectively and one other drawing was done, but I accidentally erased the photo of it.

Thank you Mrs. Johnson and Mrs. Wilcox for allowing me to post the drawings.

A bit behind

I just realized that I never posted the finished Sean Connery drawing from the Art de Combat II, so here it is.

Artin' around...

The photo is of me at the Art de Combat II, and behind me is my Uncle Bern Nuttall, whom I haven't seen in 25 years before Memorial Day last week. He came up just for the combat. Thanks again, Uncle Bern.
Here's a link to video of the Art de Combat II

Josh Jurgess filmed footage of the Art de Combat II at Enchante Gallery in West Branch, Michigan on May 30th. Thanks, Josh.

This was my first art battle, but I've grown very accustomed to drawing or painting in public, answering questions and talking to viewers. I actually enjoy it quite a bit. I didn't really feel any pressure after the first half hour. Like any project, I never know how it's going to go until I start. Starting is the worst part for me, because I need to figure out where to start. In this case, I didn't know what medium to do. I saw alot of painters competing, so I left the paints in the car. It wasn't until the starter shotgun (yes, you read right) that I opened up the charcoals and started. I went with a Sean Connery portrait, since he's a very recognizable, and fantastic, actor. If I'd felt confident I could finish the piece in the 3 hours, I would have done an oil pastel of a kilted Connery, ya know, for the ladies...

I want to thank those of you who came to the event, even if you didn't vote for me! The next combat at Enchante will be in October.

Have A Day

I met Matt Feazell at the Xcape Con 2 in Flint, Michigan in November 2008. My wife had seen him at the Motor City Comic Con in 2007 and got one of his "Have A Day" stick figure sticker. I recognized the sticker when I was wandering around the Xcape Con floor during some "slow time" and flipped through some of his more recent sketches, as well as his little books "Mr. Cynical". Every time I see a stick figure cartoon, I immediately think of him and hope it's one of his. Please check out this artist. This site is the TIP of the iceberg of his hilarity http://www.mattfeazell.com

Art de Combat in my sights

I just signed on to compete at the ART de COMBAT at the Enchante Gallery in West Branch, Michigan on Saturday, May 30 from 4-7.
Here's the premise: artists come in, set up and at 4pm they begin creating a piece of artwork for the next three hours. During this time, the "audience" wanders around, watching the artists, ask questions and vote for their favorite piece. Also during this time, drinks and food are provided (beer, hors' d ouvres, wine, etc) for viewers and artists. At 7 pm the artists stop and the ballots are counted. There is also an auction for the artwork that's been created at the event. There's a 1st, 2nd and 3rd place winner. Part of the auction proceeds of the evening goes to charity, I do believe, and the other part to the artists whose pieces are bought. This is the second art battle at Enchante, but the first I've ever participated in.
Now, here's where it gets interesting, at least for me. I don't know what I'm going to do! So, I'm asking people to give me suggestions (remember that I am, for the most part, a portrait artist). So if someone suggests Jack Nicholson, and you like that idea, let me know and the idea with the most 'votes' has a better chance of getting done. OR I can do a drawing or painting of a live model. If you come to the event, and want to be my model, let me know. Then you or someone you bring with you can bid on the artwork. Or if you want a portrait of someone, bring them to the Art de Combat and they can sit for me for 3 hours (breaks are acceptable, of course). You can e-mail me at jasonnuttall@yahoo.com to give me your suggestions, or mention it on my Facebook or my MySpace. I will post a link to Enchante once my internet connection works right.

Still in progress...

After 4 years and alot of work, VIETMIME by Nutberger INK

....still isn't done. It's very frustrating for me because I'm analyzing the plot written by Tim Schaiberger, drawing, inking, lettering and designing the entire book, and I don't have alot of time with a 6year old, a 4year old and a 2 year old running around. AND, since this project isn't currently a money-making project, it takes a backseat to, well, everything else that makes immediate moolah. Our friends at Dark Elf Designs out of Flint, MI are willing to print the book for us, but the deadline is coming up.

Even if I get all the drawing done, I'm not a great inker. And if I can get that done, the whole lettering aspect is beyond my abilities. When I created the sequel to VIETMIME, "M.I.A. : Mime In Action" for my college class, I had a working computer and printer. I had Photoshop and Illustrator. I figured out ways to put fancy words in them thar word and thought bubbles by typing the words, cutting and pasting and spending 2 straight days doing it.

Every time I look at the work I've done on the graphic novel, I get excited and look forward to doing more, but I never get the time to do it. I'm sure there are easier ways to go about what I'm doing, but I don't have ANY money, a working computer, or time. But I have every intention of finishing this thing.

I am donating my Paul Newman drawing for a raffle at a fundraising spaghetti dinner for Sharon Karnafel, a friend of mine and the mother of a good friend of mine. She worked at K-Mart and Wal-Mart and is fighting cancer at the moment. The dinner takes place at the West Branch Masonic Temple next to the little league fields on Saturday, May 2 from 3-7pm. Tickets are $5 and raffle tickets are 5 for $1. The drawing is easily worth $200.
I started the drawing last Spring after Paul Newman passed away. I have not even finished the drawing, but this event has given me the perfect opportunity to finish it. I have been trying to figure out what to donate since I was asked to participate. Then it dawned on me: This is a worthy cause and Paul Newman, aside from being a cinematic legend, was also an honorable, charitable human being (Newman's Own dressing, popcorn, etc? Most, if not all, proceeds to go charitable causes). What better way to honor his memory and how better to help a friend in need?
Sharon and her son Steve have always been very close to me. I was at his wedding, he came to many of my art shows, and he was the first friend I made in Michigan after moving back from Colorado. He and his mother have had a difficult 10 years. I know no better way to show my support than by giving what I have to offer and to ask others to come for a $5 dinner for one evening.

Artists' Pool second Get Together today!

Today is the second West Branch Artists' Pool Get Together, for those who couldn't make the first one or liked the first one or want to get info on upcoming events. So far, there will be 4 people there, five if you include someone's kid who's being dragged to it. I was hoping to get some interest from younger artists looking to find their artistic niche in the area.
The get together is from 4:30-6pm downstairs at the West Branch Library on N. 4th St. It's free and if you feel like showing your work, bring examples. If you have any thoughts on the arts, speak up. It's a free flowing, easy going shindig. John Burton, former art teacher at Whittemore-Prescott, is involved in beginning a Co-Op Art Gallery downtown called "artisan's alley". He will be onhand to answer questions. Tell yer friends and neighbors!

The Blues Were Blastin'! The auction, not so much...

"Blast the Blues" went as well as most events where artists display their work for sale. The event itself was fine. The organizers did a good job, and the band, The Devilles, were great. It's just the people who PAID to be in a FUNDRAISER involving an AUCTION didn't feel that they should have to bid on anything at the auction. Alot of artwork was up for auction. Attendees knew this. It was advertised. But nobody wanted any artwork. Or anything else, other than eat and drink.
Now I understand that alot of people aren't into art, no matter what kind of art (and there was a great variety), but if you come to an event that is a fundraiser that has an art auction and artists on display (as advertised), MAYBE you shouldn't be coming if you don't like art.
"Let's go to a car auction even though I don't have a license and hate cars! But I hear they're giving away hot dogs!"

I want to make clear that the event organizers, volunteers and artists are not the people I'm disturbed by. It's the people who paid to come to charity auction and didn't want to bid. I did not expect to sell anything. I never do at these things. It just gives me a chance to show off my work. I'm not upset that I didn't sell anything. It's that people donated artwork, events, opportunities and their items were underbid (start at $50 and EVENTUALLY sells for $25). To me, that's a blow to the self-esteem. It's not a garage sale that you meander around and try to haggle.

That should be enough complaining for now.

Cat art

I just finished this graphite drawing of my friend Jenny Raymond's cat for her. I gave it to her yesterday and she says she loves it.

Wine Walk a Blues Blasting

The Art & Wine Walk went very nicely. It was great weather and alot of booze lovin' West Branchers out and about. As always. But this time there was FREE wine and artwork to look at.

Oh right. There was artwork on display. I actually had people come into the Ink & Thread, get their shot o' rotted grape juice, give me a look like I was a diseased hippie and walk out. Par for the course. Happens all the time. And for the record, I am NOT diseased. I am not a traditional "hippie". I have long hair and listen to classic rock and blues. I don't hug trees. I don't spout off "Peace my brother", and I do not partake in ANY Hippie-esque substances. Hell, I barely drink.
Other than those individuals, the evening was great. I saw old faces, new faces and had alot of positive feedback about my artwork.
Next Thursday, April 23, I will be at the "Blastin' the Blues" at Dean Arbour in West Branch, for the Tolfree Foundation. I will have artwork on display, as will 19 other artists. Entry is $20 and that covers food from multiple local restaurants, drinks and a chance to bid at the auction. I have put a BB King block print up, an unknown piece (but it might be a Stevie Ray Vaughan painting) and 3 hours of art lessons. For more info, check out the Tolfree Foundation site: http://www.tolfreefoundation.org/blasttheblues/

Spread the word!!

What I'm going to do...

I will be at the Ink & Thread for the West Branch Art & Wine Walk on Saturday, April 17th from 5-9pm. I will also be at the Blastin' The Blues for the Tolfree Foundation at Dean Arbour in West Branch on Thursday, April 23. Gotta get to work, but hope that holds ya for now...

New Workshop in West Branch!

My computer has taken an unfortunate turn for the worst, so I haven't posted in quite a long time.
Heh. Sorry.
The Artist's Pool get together went well. And I'm getting alot of positive feedback about the concept of the group. I feel good about it.
The West Branch Children's Film Festival ( www.wbcff.com ) is continuing to move forward, and there will be a new workshop coming up:

FEBRUARY WORKSHOP: ACTORS PREP
Actors Prep: How to Audition
Presented by Cassandra "Cassie" FisherActress, Director, Professional Lighting Tech, Hair & Make-up Artist, Professor of Theater at Kirtland Community College

1:00- 4:00 PM Saturday, February 21, 2009 @ West Branch Public Library, Lower Level Only $5 per person payable @door
All ages welcome.
Doors open at 12:30
Limited Seating

Future workshops will include acting basics, set make up, prop setup, and screenwriting featuring professionals from the film industry.

Hope to swim in the Artist Pool

I am on Facebook. I kinda like it. I'm also on Myspace. I kinda like them both for different and similar reasons.
Anyway, I have started a group on Facebook, "West Branch Artist Pool" . This is a place for visual and performing artists of all ages to contact one another, see each others' works, and as stated in the title, a pool from which to find varieties of artists in the West Branch area. This can also be used as a tool for the West Branch Film Initiative, or any organization or individual looking for a certain kind of musician, painter, or actor. If you live in the West Branch area and are an artist or know of one, send them over! They don't have to be professionals. They could be students or hobbyists.
So, click on West Branch Artists' Pool to check it out.

Richard Brauer Filmmaking Workshop in WEST BRANCH!!!

The West Branch Children's Film Festival will be featuring a workshop on making films on Saturday, January 17th at 1pm in the West Branch Library.
This event will be taught by Michigan filmmaker Richard Brauer. He is most famous for his work as writer and producer of "Escanaba in da Moonlight" with Jeff Daniels. Here's a link to his site:
http://www.brauer.com Here you can find a list of other films he's done, including "Frozen Stupid" in Houghton Lake with Ernest Borgnine and "Mr. Art Critic" with Bronson Pinchot on Makinac Island.
Here's also a link to the Film Festival site:
http://www.wbcff.com
I am very excited about this event, as well as the work the festival and the West Branch Area Film Initiative is doing.
The festival is always looking for more professional filmmakers and actors interested in teaching workshops or judging the festival's films if you know of anyone in the field.