Miss Mindy

MM & CJM at Stranger Factory - Circus:Folke

2012-01-17T00:03:00.000-08:00

The circus has always been an inspiration to me, maybe because I feel like I belong in one.
The gaudy glitz of it all,

the silly faces and the animals that I would love to see in my own bizarro traveling show. If I could create a circus that was miniature, and hidden in some crazy little forest, surround by cotton candy eating munchkins and pixies in killer outfits,

that would be the bees knees.

I decided to mix all my artistic 'loves' in one pot for this one ....

Inkwork, sculpture and painting. I've created some special little 'players' that have their own story to tell and show a taste of the imaginary circus in my head. It's been in there since I was kid. My sister and I would put on parades, adorn out trikes with flags, and dress up in silly outfits from 'The crazy dress up drawer.' I guess you can say I never really grew up, and am happy to share that with you.

Circus: Folke

New works by the Artist SistersMiss Mindy and CJ Metzgeropens Feb. 3rd

Fun Reception from 6pm to 9pm

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The Stranger Factory GalleryAlbuquerque, New Mexico

http://strangerfactory.com

An amazing New Gallery founded by Kathie Olivas and Brandt Peters, amazing creators extraordinaire! Thank you for having us guys...

Press Release:
Calling all carnies: the next gig to roll into town is Circus: Folke, a two-person exhibition by California-based ‘artist sisters’ Miss Mindy and CJ Metzger. An exploration of the Circus, its characters and all associated nostalgia, Circus: Folke will undoubtedly offer us a peek into a most spectacular tent.

Both artists hail from Los Angeles. Mindy an inker, painter, illustrator and sculptor, her growing list of clients includes Warner Brothers, Hard Rock Café, Mindstyle and Nickelodeon Animation. CJ Metzger’s iconic painting, illustration, design and writing has been sought out by such brands as Neiman Marcus, Hot Topic, and the LA Times. Uniting their passion for characters and storytelling with their unique design sensibilities, the sisters create an uber-artistry that leaves a lasting impression.

We hope to see some of ya'll on Feb 3rd,

and if you can't make it out to have a few drinks, check back to see a slew of our brand new works. I have to say, I'm so excited to show you.... brand new new new!

-MM

PS- Thank you to all my recent commissions, and for your patience in completing them!
I appreciate all the emails so much, the response has been amazing.
I'm working like a little elf, and can't wait to show you more art and toy designs!
info@missmindy.com

Custom Vinyl - Red head in toyland....

2012-01-07T19:14:00.000-08:00

I had some really cool commissions to work on over the holidays, and would like to share one of my favorites with you...
This Art/Toy is my newest addition to my Vinlymation customs.
This Particular piece was inspired by the game 'Kingdom Hearts'- at the collectors request. So I dove into the imagery and came up with a 'Miss Mindized' version of how that world inspired me.

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PROCESS

The Art /Toy

Poor little vinyl, helpless and mangled.

be quiet lil guy.. what's that? yer mouth is filled with resin.
I know, I'm a nerd. ;)

Stages of sanding, resin re-coats, sanding..etc etc...

did I say sanding? I meant wet sanding...
and more sanding.

It gets fun when the filler primer lets loose. I finally get to see my lil' guy's character try to come out.

I get Cray-zeh with the spray paint because I'm so hardcore. I'm so hardcore, I sleep witha teddy bear.
That's right.

Modge podge is even more hardcore. But goldleaf is my vice.
I adore it, I hate it, I love it- my dog eats it by accident. Think from there. Fancy!

This part was super tricky.
I wanted the night sky to have stars- so my version of Mickey could look up into the
night sky at a glowing resin moon, AND be 3 dimensional. -ok.....And how big was the tummy space?
2.5 inches kinda--
yeah. I'm nuts,
but totally did it with some help from Ahab. He recommended metal tape to reflect, and to make a 'lightbox' of sorts- so we could make the best of the L.E.D light we put in his back.
whew. worked.
I used an L.E.D with the Red Queen toy at D23 as well.. but a night starry sky was a whole different challenge!

Painting the teenie tiny scene inside his tummy...I managed to keep ahold of my eyeballs before they fell out.

next up...

Little Creepies

The next step was to create the heartless...
So I made wire armatures and then got my 'magic sculpt' on.

Creepy little guys, but cute all the same.... I was up late--Miss bug eyes.

Filler primer. Rock!

and waa-la! lil creepies....all painted and ready.

Stars from the ceiling inside the display travel up through the crown-
This hole lets in light so the toy isn't sitting in darkness... he'd be sad.

DISPLAY CASE

First Things First, After the measurements set, the construction begins!
Thanks to Ahab's Shipyard for the awesome construction & display paint (ahem..Rick- :)
- Check out his new alias blog for all things cool -
'The Captain' will be posting amazing creations this year!

The molding is cut, lines scribed, crown melted to position.

The Front heart design get's some love now, and Ahab's extra touch...

Primed and ready to be painted after days of milling, filling & sanding.

Finishing touches, I add sky, stars & place my little creatures to 'loom' in and creep...

Green Patina for roofing... nice touch. Key's fit, all is coming along. yee-who!

The final Display!

Thanks for Stopping by-
--------Till my next one.....
-mm

Have a Happy New Year.

2011-12-30T15:58:00.000-08:00

Love Miss Mindy

Oh Happy Day, & A Christmas video for you...

2011-12-19T16:57:00.000-08:00

Have a wonderful Christmas-Hanukkah-Kwanzaa-sock fest... all those lovely holidays --

n' Thank you for supporting the arts from the bottom of my heart!

CLICK HERE TO SEE MISS MINDY'S / XMAS / SKETCH THEATRE VIDEO

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So sorry we weren't able to have our annual Holiday party this year..
but Leanna Lin's Wonderland in Eagle Rock is carrying the latest Artist Sisters goodies for us!
We hope you'll stop on by and visit her for some last minute artsy gifts... Enjoy your time this holiday- and here's to a wonderful New year!

:)mm

Hope ya'll have a great Thanksgiving weekend...

2011-11-25T13:20:00.001-08:00

-Love Miss Mindy's Art Studio-and the ever popular - Rick & Radio

Thank you for supporting the arts!

Art Happenin's - This Weekend!

2011-11-18T17:52:00.001-08:00

Leanna Lin's Wonderland

in Eagle Rock, CA presents....

'Head in the Clouds'

11/11 thru 12/31

Reception: Nov. 19th

THIS SATURDAY!

6-10pm

New artwork, prints and gifties for the holidays!

Please join us at our exclusive,

hometown outlet for 'Artist Sisters' Goodies

-ALL HOLIDAY SEASON LONG-

New Ornaments, prints and 'one of a kinds' will be 'freshened' at random- so check in often!

Click here to see what's up for grabs!

-free book set with 100$ purchase-
-Hope you'll join us!

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THIS SUNDAY- OPEN STUDIO TOUR at MISS MINDY & RICK O'BRIEN'S!

Not to mention the Fabulous-o studios of tons of grand North East LA artists!
*also showcasing at Rick and Mindy's pad: Artist Sister, CJ Metzger & Mother, Linda Johnstone Allen

THIS SUNDAY

9:30 a.m. – 5 p.m.

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INFO:

What is the Arroyo Arts Tour?

A self-guided auto tour featuring more than 100 artists in homes and studios in Eagle Rock, Highland Park, Mount Washington, and neighboring areas.

When: Sunday, Nov. 20, 9:30 a.m. – 5 p.m.

Where: Tour begins at the Lummis Home,

200 E. Ave. 43, Highland Park, 90031

Cost: Tickets are $10 in advance; $15 on the day of the tour. info: (323) 850-8566. http://www.arroyoartscollective.org/

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Hope to See you!!
-MM, R and R

Happy Halloweenie Kiddos!

2011-10-31T01:13:00.000-07:00

HAPPY HALLOWEEN!

love Miss Mindy's Art Studio....

Moi with Mr. Halloween himself... Stephen Chiodo

Everyone survived.

Me and my Man- sweet Ricky Dee.

-MM

Upcoming: SSG - La Luz & Leanna Lin's

2011-10-27T13:42:00.000-07:00

'Tacky Tea'

Screaming Sky Gallery
Group ShowSUGAR and SPICE and Everything Nice

Oregon
October 27th through November 20th
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'Keeping the nibbles at Bay'
La Luz 25Opening receptions: November 4 and 5, 8–11 PM

I'll be attending that weekend- I'll 'tweet' what day... :)
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Leanna Lin's Wonderland
Opening Reception: NOV. 19th 6-10pm

My sister and I will be taking over the main gallery wall
and showcasing our latest works and goodies for the season!

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-Hope to see you!
mm

PS- All artworks available through the galleries fore mentioned. Please contact them for availability! :)

Baby Tattooville 2011 - recap

2011-10-14T15:13:00.000-07:00

I've been lucky enough to be apart of the BabyTattooville events for 3 years now,
and each one has been so fun and Bizarre... filled to the brim with artsy fartsy goodies and activities! Even the badges have thought- this years was designed by the lovely Lola.

I honestly don't really know how to explain the event,
so here's a lil 'clip from the website:

"Baby Tattooville provides a unique opportunity for a few enthusiastic collectors (like yourself) to spend a weekend with an all-star lineup of celebrated artists. Without the time constraints of a typical personal appearance, or the crowd control issues of a standing-room-only event, artists and collectors will have a weekend-long opportunity to discuss and explore their mutual interests. Original work will be created and celebrated around-the-clock; no one will leave empty handed. "

Being the 5 year anniversary n' all... there was quite a line-up! Tim Biskup, Gary Baseman, SHAG, Frank Kozik, Ana Bagayan, Amy Sol, Anthony Ausgang, Gris Grimly, Yoskay Yamamoto, Ron English, Elizabeth McGrath, Johnny Ryan, KRK Ryden, Lola, Brandi Milne, Luke Chueh, Travis Louie, Van Arno, Tara McPherson, Buff Monster, Johnny KMNDZ Rodriguez, James Gurney, Bob Dob, William Stout, Jeffrey Scott, Coop, Robert and Suzanne Williams, Daniel Peacock, James Jean, Audrey Kawasaki and Myself...

We managed to squeeze in quite a bit of painting on the Art Jam this year.. Not too many 'art battles' happened..*cough* Ryan *cough *cough*

Throwing it back to 2009

when I first attended. I was told it's the usual practice to make the attendees/collectors somethin' special. After all, they're forkin' out some serious moo-la, so it better be thoughtful. That year was homemade suckers that almost managed to kill my sweet Ricky-dee. (Finding boiling point for 60 suckers.. well--um...sucks! ;) -AND after that...cutting out 50 large wooden hand painted Nickels ..yipes! masochist. yap! That's me.

So This year, I made elf pasties, thinking they'd be a little easier to do, because I was going to vacuform them. ( Maybe I should learn to count as well? - X 2 honey pie!) errrr.. well? Let's just say, you learn as you go, and in the end.... I learned A LOT in short amount of time.
I've found, that living my life as an elf, makes trial by fire not so bad. ;)

So far folks have sent me some pretty funny pictures of them with pasties on their heads, knees, as brooches, n' shoulder pads? -ok, well whatever floats yer boat, just have fun them! ;) I was so pleased with how happy they made everybody.
You can't wear a straight face whist wearing 'Miss Mindy's' one of a kind 'Elf Pasties'.
No Sir.
I'm smiling right now.

Thank god for my families sense of humor...
100 some odd pasties later....

So Then, Ricky dee and I got all packed up, and scooted our rears out the door..
squeakin' in a bit late.
See me behind Michael Hussar? I didn't think so. Bad kids go in the back.

After the Artist Panel...and Captain Soto.
I ran on over to the store to drop off my one of a kind goodies..
This little original sculpture of mine got snagged up by a collector - fair and square.
good bye lil' pal.

Speaking of square. I love Amanda. why hello!

KRK Ryden, all alone and painting.. must have been nice, because then....

This happens! The rush to finish before the cut off time...(cut off time?) sucks to paint in chaos..
but it's exciting!

After the nuttiness.. down down down to the catacombs we go... to where Blacksmith Tony is banging away on various things.. helmuts, swords....

and what? Bob! You stole my brand new Xena pasties!

And more fun in the cavern with James Gurney..

You may know him by his fabulous paintings in 'Dinotopia.' Great great guy.

KMNDZ's super adorable wife Lorraine and BTV attendee and artist pal Olivier....

One of the biggest benefits for artists participating in the annual Baby Tattooville
celebration is having their work exhibited in the Riverside Art Museum for all to see even after the exclusive weekend festivities end (you have about five weeks – until Nov. 8 – to catch show). Entering its fifth year of hosting exhibitions featuring BT artists, this collection is a retrospective of sorts that includes works from those that have had their work in the annual show in the past.

KRK...lil' me.... n' Van Arno

Way to excited Brandi Milne and Me - we will eat your face!

look how excited uncle Bob is?
and there's Van Arno's hair again!

Yes...

and look how snobby i look in this picture... geees. Must have been the pizza & beer.

Ohh! yay. Josh Agle / SHAG does some mighty fine artwork!

I totally adored what Ragnar did for, so many names to incorporate! wow.

GREAT hanging out with Tattoo artist Hannah - whiskey n' doodles in the mornin'!

My awesome Rick O'Brien-- in THE DRAWING STANCE- go git 'em stance!

One of my favorite ( and luckiest) collectors.. Katie Crabb..
the winner of my Circus Punk and original painting two years ago! DAMN GINA!

Rick worked on this painting in the room while we were down there..
ahhh... the Room smelled like oil paint, candles burnin' , booze flowin'...pals getting rowdier upstairs.
Crazy time........
I adore the colors Rick.
You could kick my ass sideways with yer paint strokes. yap.

Finally home Radio.
-MM

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Curioser? Here's some Babytattooville FAQ's

Arrested Motion coverage

Mark Murphy's Publication for RAMuseum show

Haunted Mansion....

2011-09-26T22:55:00.000-07:00

Does it say Miss Mindy enough on the pictures? ha ha ha...

So Here it is! ( finally)
My special, one of a kind Vinylmation for the 'Room for one more' event this Friday
at The Disney Contemporary Resort in Florida...
-Celebrating the Haunted Mansion-
Check it out here!

The process of creating these little suckers is a doozy,
and I've gone into it in past blog posts if you wanna see step by steps.,
but my eyes are falling out- so this will have to do!

I honestly never really liked customizing too many plastic toys,
Only a few here and there that struck my fancy...
but have found that I adore making these.

Maybe it's the old Disney ears that get me-
or the fact my grandmother worked on snow white in the 1930's and inked with 'the girls' in the old animation buildings - nostalgia. I don't know, but it's fun.

I'd like to say a humongous thank you to my sweet Ricky-dee
('Ahabs Shipyard' from now on- link coming soon! :) for building the base.
He is so amazing.
---I'd also keep an eye out for some original miss mindy toys, one of a kinds, sculptures,
whatever you want to call them- they'll be around the bend too.

I've gotten so many orders, I don't know what to do... Merci!
So please be patient with this lil' gal- as I don't have an elf to help me with the sanding yet.... ;) Each art /toy/sculpture I make, gets a 'whole lotta love' - and time from Mindy pie in the sky.
:) Thank you!

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Here's some fun photos I took of my 'glow in the dark babies' during the process...

Ahhh -- painting the brides beating heart...wooooo...
I've never painted in black light before.
Headaches happen. teeth look weird, & My white dog looked fantastic.

gees. It always looks terrible in the beginning.

spray paint always gives me some hope.

and a shmancy box always helps...
this one is an old hat box, painted with flat black, gloss web...oooooo fancy pants!

...and in the end, I always end up with messy hands...

-MM

Munky King- No Bullies allowed...

2011-09-07T00:01:00.000-07:00

"When it Pours"
mixed media on stained watercolor paper
artwork: 6x8.5" framed: 9x12"

9.10.11
Munky King Melrose
"Stop It!" opens on Saturday, September 10th, 2011 from 6pm-10pm.
The theme of the show is meant to draw awareness
to bullying and cyberbullying.

Curated by 12 year old ‘Super Cooper Berella’ -
artist, art collector, and supporter of the arts!

Anthony Ausgang
Attaboy
Brian McCarty
Bwana Spoons
Dave Pressler
Joe Ledbetter
Luke Chueh
Mari Inukai
Misha
Miss Mindy
Rick O'Brien
Ritzy Periwinkle
Ron English
Scott Saw
Scott Tolleson
Sket One
Spanky Stokes
Van Arno
Yoskay Yamamoto
and many more...
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C'mon out and support my new little art friend, Cooper!
We met at Baby Tattooville, drew silly ladies on the stairs, and I think he's the bees knees...
Thanks Cooper for putting this show together, and Happy almost Birthday!
-mm

Red Queen & White Rabbit - Final pics & process...

2011-08-24T14:44:00.000-07:00

The Red Queen: 1500$ sold

The White Rabbit: 2,000$ sold

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Ok! Now that my migraine is over...
Here's my Final toy turns!
I'm really happy with how they came out, and all the hard work I put into them really paid off...
Thank you to everyone for saying such great things about the pieces!

Here's a fun article from Tomopop I came across about them.

-Thank you for the love!-

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Here's a tad about the process of making these lil' suckers...

The Vinylmation toys they sent me...

Chop chop! -magic sculpt to the rescue....

Cut brass for her staff & sculpting the crown....
(Most of the pieces on both the rabbit & the Queen were sculpted by hand)

Time to spray 'er down...why hello Radio!

-n' paintin' bonanza...

Placing the cards is like building a pirate ship in a bottle!

Yes...! The light works...

The Queen gives her wink of approval...

A Huge Thank you to Jo, her new mom.
(you out there Jo? drop me a line! I need to sign the bottom for you when I visit-I was so tired from my all-nighter my mooshy brain forgot! info@missmindy.com)

MR. RABBIT.
wish I had more process pics, but here's a few-

ready to Flock.

Thanks to Stephen Chiodo who taught me to "flock" ;)

and to my husband- and crazy good artist/miniature & mad scientist extrodinaire who engineered the bunny's insides!

I sculpted Alice the size of the tip of my pinky...geees.

And here we have a headless bunny. Yep! Rick put his lighting switch in his head.
(!! To whom bought him.. we have extra batteries for you, email me so I can send them to you! :)

detail.work work work...

4am Sat. morning... Finito!

-mm

Wonderland -Miss Mindy-Vinylmation Customs....

2011-08-21T23:18:00.000-07:00

Here's a couple shots of the completed toys...
more pics to come!

Miss Mindy's Wonderland at Disney's D23....

2011-08-19T15:54:00.000-07:00

I'm excited to be apart of the
D23 Event -at The Anaheim Convention Center
this Weekend!!
My latest Disney Vinylmation custom will be on Display at the Vinylmation booth.

I'll be there from 11am on. . . .Saturday the 20th

I'll tweet more info.. Join MM on twitter

I'll be doing a big post about the process to make these two next week...
They are the most complex art toys I've ever made!
A Huge thank you to my husband Rick O'Brien for engineering the gears on the White Rabbit,
The amount of miniature gear work- and tiny painted pieces, sculpting, & experimentation- was such an incredible challenge.. but I learned tons!

Keep an eye out for more Miss Mindy Vinlymation 'One of a Kinds'...
Room for one More - Haunted Florida.

-mm

Strychnin, Berlin... Keep a Breast

2011-07-25T18:28:00.000-07:00

Strychnin - Keep a Breast - C.O.P Magazine
present...

"Strawberry Rodeo"
acrylic on plaster

The Chest cast of the awesome Jane Wiedlin
-mm

Oh July.....filled to the gills!

2011-07-20T01:23:00.000-07:00

First Things first!
Comic-con Signing: Come and play with me n' the gang at
'The Color Ink Book' ... BOOTH # 5569
Saturday

12pm – 1pm: Miss Mindy
1pm – 2pm: Luke Chueh
2pm – 3pm: Brandi Milne

I'll bring my red pencil.

Next Up!
Here's a new show my sister and I are in- A bunch of super artists have painted wooden custom toys inspired by the shape of The Washburn Brothers "Rayola" character... very fun! I hope you'll join us at the opening: WWA gallery- July 29th!

Next Next Up!

Strychnin Gallery
Germany
group show
'Etiquette' & Keep a Breast foundation benefit "bust"
Opens August 12th

Fun Up!
HERE.

My latest Sketch Theatre: inspired by my newest art piece for Europe...
"Mild Mannered"
"Young Ladies should always preserve a modest demeanor in dancing, for it throws around them a halo of light & purity..."
excerpt from : Daisy Eyebrights Manual of Etiquette & good breeding-1884

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Book In!
Wow, This volume 1 of sketch theatre is amazing!
I was just blown away by the talent these folks have...
and chock full of 'em too!

Both My husband Rick O'Brien & I are in it! awww...

So stop on by the BabyTattoo Books/Sketch Theatre booth--
new location: booth # 4712

*Who knows, maybe my sweet Ricky-dee and I will be sketchin' away!
(I'll 'tweet' le times---oooh-so modern!)

-MM

Whisked Away....

2011-06-07T15:38:00.000-07:00

Sorry for the non-blog updates-- My Facebook & Twitter seem to be getting more of the love lately.

Surprise! My lil' gal sold in 30 seconds!
Yeehaw!
Keep an eye out for more customs this year.... same bat place, same bat channel.. hmmm what'll they be?

A Special Thanks to my pal Brandy Trigueros for her excellent Photography skills!
Visit her brand-new site to see what she's up to! CottonCandyCatWalk.com

Finished up an amazing new 'Saddlemate-Spring Rider' for the Super Awesome Couple of Duirwaigh Studios
-
Angi Sullins & Silas Toball... Wonderful creators of Inspiration!

Here's their Mousey, Zeus-- readying to board Southwest.. bring your Air mask!

Home at Last--- in Lovely Taos... "The Fun House" of Duirwaigh.
I don't think I've ever had art pieces this happy in their new home--- seeing them get there safely was a big load off, and the look on Angi & Silas' faces when the boxes were opened--- was insanely electric.
I needed a cigarette after...

So off to paint a Jalopy and name her Moxie...

-Till my next visit -
:)
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AND NEXT UP!
drum roll.......

I was chosen to teach a wonderful Artist retreat up in Washington Next April!

What is this cool art thing?

Artfest takes Place at Fort Worden, WA
March 28th - April 1st 2011
It's Workshops, It's a retreat, It awesome artsy-ness- all weekend long!

The workshop I will teach on Sat & Sunday is a full day, 6 hour sessions (with a 90 minute lunch break.) They're designed to provide not only several techniques learned throughout the day but time enough to actually work on what has been learned so that it can sink in and a nice chunk in the middle of the day to renew yourself.

The teachers come from all over the United States, Canada & Australia and represent some of the best in their fields.

See these links for sign up & more information:

INFO
SIGN UP

I've heard it sells out quite quickly-- so be on yer toes!

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And Last but CERTAINLY not least...

My Mom's Huge art show this Saturday!
Please Join us..

June 4 - July 3, 2011
Opening Reception:
June 11, 2011 from 6:00 pm - 9:00 pm

Linda Johnstone Allen & Toros Tngrian will demonstrating various ceramic techniques using a potter's wheel and incorporating slab work, press blocks, mixed media, handbuilding and mask making.

Artist Demonstration
June 26, 2011 from 2:00 pm - 4:00 pm

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Love to you..
MM

Disney Vinylmation Process/signing May 21st!

2011-05-17T10:29:00.000-07:00

Welcome to my Giant Toy Post!
I'm excited to announce....

The 9″ Pirates of the Caribbean inspired
Vinylmation Release & Signing
Saturday, May 21, 2011
2pm – 5pm

D Street, Downtown Disney® District, Disneyland® Resort
Miss Mindy, Javier Soto and Scott Tolleson

will be on hand for a special appearance and signing of their custom Vinylmation™ figures themed to Pirates of the Caribbean. more info to come on the Vinylmation site!

and on the Disneyland site

I hope you'll join me in unveiling this little original Vinylmation -entitled 'Cutie Pirate'

My pal Brandy Trigueros was kind enough to take some stellar shots of the little lass...

Thank you Brandola!
As you can see, she LOVES her bubble gum- and is in mid-blow- ;)

I've had a lot of people ask me about my process lately,
and where my ideas come from...
I honestly adore circus motifs- and when I was asked to do my take on 'the Pirates of the Carribean'- I rolled with my love for color, and bizarro-fun girliness to the extreme. Who said stripes and dots don't mix? Pleather? you bet. You should see her Pirate ship.
She maybe cute, this little firecracker...but she's one tough cookie!
(More stories on how she got that peg-leg later..;)
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OK Toys... Lets get going!
My first Toy was 'Dink' made by Mindstyle toys
This little vinyl beauty sure was a sell out!

also on my 'toy plate of the past'.. was this 'Custom Stitch',
which was shown all over the world....( one of my favorites)

Kokeshi Dolls also became a part of the Miss Mindy steady diet of Toy making....
From Gallery Subtext, to The Japanese American museum in Los Angeles.
entitled: 'Chicken Boyfriend'

Commissions have always been a sweet treat, because you never know what form you

may be painting next. (Keeps you nimble!)

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PROCESS

How do you begin?

I'm always finding out about new ways to modify

and create..but this time around, here's how she came to be:

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Blank. - better get to work....sketch a tad on it-

These suckers get oily, so I scrub my down really well...

Little bathtime and dry- & she's ready to go

Better look at my sketch and modify..Chop Chop!
Off goes the nose and foot. sorry pal.

Next up--Magic Sculpt till my hearts content- I sanded the figure to give it some grit -and
then added my shapes...Poofy sleeves, little bird, peg leg -
bubble, new arm to hold gum wrapper...etc.
( next time I'll get a clear bubble! - not enough time to figure that out- this time around)

Wet sanding takes forever! used about 10 different #'s of grit to smooth her out...

Once sandings done-- It's time to prime.

And paint...(finally)

Figure 3D elements

She's coming along..Trying to make it look the concept sketch as much as possible..

Then, the box last minute..Painted white and gloss on flat black,

Cutie Pirate approved of her new home...

Her Mother is so Proud..

I hope you enjoyed seeing my process for this particular toy...
She now has her own personality and story- and is ready for her big Disney Debut.

Hope to see you Saturday!

-mm

Anniversary Time....

2011-05-02T11:19:00.000-07:00

Ready to celebrate with me?
----------Then come in our little round door....
pretty yourself up....

& I'll force you to look at some pics of Rick and I as kiddos....

And show you our mushroom house after we got it "wedding ready" - (workin' on it still..;)

and a couple shots of the 'before'---- whew! (midway..mind you---yap!)

Now I can talk your ear off about a special time...
2 years ago today.... we had a hobbitland wedding--

Fairies and elves, Centaurs and gnomes, beasts & belly dancers..even the sun and moon attended our wedding at the same time. Married at heart for 11 years, we wanted this to a be a celebration of life for all - and not just about us solely. Indeed...to give some hearty cheer to our friends and family too... a proper Hobbit Bash, witha keg of brew, meat pies, cheese- and of course...Rick's favorite, movie theatre popcorn all around.

Rick and I are two completely different artists that found common ground in our passion to create against all odds,- and stay true to our own visions. To inspire one another...even when you feel like you want to give up or become something that's 'steady' forever....Nope. It's there. the drive to create with our own two hands is our blessing and our curse. Always learning new ways to create whats in our wild minds is a journey in itself. It's hard to relay the feelings you can go through as an artist- day to day....To go beyond the 'survive' of it all and find something that can drive you into happiness and madness at the same time.

I thank you for taking the time to read about such a special day in my life. We worked so hard to make it what it was - and for the rest of our lives, because you never know how long you're going to be here. I've been finding that out -all to well- the last few years...

Take the time to enjoy your friends. sit- and don't check you phone for an hour--or a day. Real life is out there- not just in cyber space- and I have to remind myself to stop. and feel- and just look.

I wish us all calmness and passion all at once... to stop and notice the little things - and then dance for hours on end.

*Thank you so much to our friends and family who attended our wedding 2 years ago - and to those up in the sky who could only BE- in spirit. I'll be posting a link to some of our wedding pictures HERE later today...Bear with me- it's only been two years... ;)

Much Love, Miss (Mrs.) Mindy
( sorry guys- too hard to change my artsy name to Mrs. Mindy - makes me sounds way too sophisticated.-- ;)

Doodle for Springtime...

2011-04-13T12:47:00.000-07:00

I've been doing a lot of woodcut artwork at the moment for shows, and will post some progress pics in my next post...but in the middle of it all-- I sketch n' doodle about what ever makes my brain happy in this circus world. Soooooo-- drunk happy beetles and a yappy Bunny girl for Easter found it's way onto my sketch pad menu this week....AND into my new section on my crazy lil' Etsy store! ETSY: "Spontaneous Randoms" - I'll be posting all sorts of fun stuff here that doesn't go to galleries-- like little dolls, sketches, wigs, underpants - whatever i feel like---painting cartoon shoes is up next. yay. :)mm

New art workin'

2011-03-28T08:00:00.001-07:00

Inle tonight.... Bling on Sunday!

2011-03-11T16:37:00.001-08:00

Quick Reminder

TONIGHT!

7-10pm

Gallery 1988
7020 Melrose Ave,
Los Angeles, CA 90038
(323) 937-7088

________________________

Spring Bling: Art Festival
Come support The Eagle Rock Center for the Arts....
March 13th - 11-3 -THIS SUNDAY!

Me & Me Madre Linda will be there with special goodies in tow.
Everything from bizarro art creations to regular 'ol prints, & ceramic art pieces.

INFO HERE

* 'Fresh Fries' and 'Cup Cakes A Go Go' Food Trucks out front - ding ding!

_____________________

Hope to see you!

-mm

Color Ink Book & all that Chicken Jazz...

2011-03-07T22:10:00.001-08:00

Whoo Hoo! It's OUT!

COLOR INK BOOK - volume 10
3 different covers by Buff Monster, Ferris & MOI!

Order one today!
It was sucha goodtime doing this one..

I hope you enjoy my 'Drunk Fairy Funhouse' Mobile!

(please note: if you'd like my cover, don't forget to click it in the scroll down menu!)

CLICK HERE TO NAB SOME!

ready. set. color!

____________________

and oooh New Dollies!

Brand New Kokeshi Dolls.

This is my 'White Russian' series

'Viktoriya & Varvara'

check 'em out on Etsy!

______________________

My oh my..what a ball we had at The Music Box...

The lovely, Elisa & Brandy pie

Holas Edwardian Chicken!

_________________________

And Last but certainly not least... my love for my newest piece of art!

Brandi Milne rules it - with her darling lil' faces...

OK. Feelings. Step by step.

1. The excitement of it all.

2. Oh, yer really mine?

3. Bet you take delicious Mr. painting!

:)-mm

'INLE' a group art show at Gallery 1988

2011-02-28T18:28:00.000-08:00

Greg Simkins & Gallery 1988:LA Present
INLE
Over 100 artists interpret the anti-hero of
Richard Adams' Watership Down

Curated by Greg "Craola" Simkins
Opening Reception:
Friday, March 11th
7-10pm

Gallery 1988
7020 Melrose Ave,
Los Angeles, CA 90038
(323) 937-7088

Come see my latest woodcut art piece "The Race"

I 'm in the midst of doing a large new body of my woodcut artworks,
and to jump start it - I was invited by a wonderfully talented guy named Greg Simkins -to do my interpretation of The Black Rabbit of Inle- and the story 'Water ship down'. Please Visit Gregs Blog for more insanely great art /info and links: IM SCARED blog.

I honestly remember horror stories about this film & story when I was a kid... and being a Betty Boop lovin' -polka dots pants- kinda girl, & I was almost a bit weary to do the show. But I'm so happy I did. I really got into it, Had nightmares because of the suffocation & bunny battles. But came away with my own story....How we deal with death in our lives.

Thus the Idea for "The Race" came about.

-In this wood cut shadow box/painting-
you see a girl riding her "black rabbit" to the "finish line."

-She's accepted it.

-Behind her - a girl trying to stop it.

-In the back by the sun/ Lord Frith, a girl tempting her bunny to go even faster with a carrot.

I had to deal with feelings about loved ones lost recently & in the past.
This piece helped me understand those feelings, & to notice how we all deal with death differently, and how we accept it as well.

- - - - - -

I know it's a dark subject for such a silly lady...
but it's good to go dark on occasion. ;)

I hope you enjoy my latest piece & also the following photos of the process!

I'll be at the show This March 11th, and I hope you'll join me to enjoy all the wonderful artwork about and inspired by this story....Thanks Greg!

Step 1 & 2: sketch and layout on wood

Then paint, cut and assembly....

Love- mm

Have Valentines!

2011-02-14T17:51:00.001-08:00

New Inspirations....

2011-01-24T15:56:00.000-08:00

In it! ---

:)mm

A sketch for a toasty Tuesday Afternoon...

2011-01-18T16:09:00.000-08:00

Happy New Year -2011!

2011-01-03T18:06:00.000-08:00

Mr Gnome says:
(say with an Irish accent)

Here's to a greater year
have no fear - my little dear,
the bastards that be-
that try to whip thee-
will fall on their arses and pee!"

whhhaaaat?

he said it.

He lives here.

These people are my family! I love them.--- and we got caught in the snow!
--ahh Yosemite...
Nice to get away from the city folks for awhile. I like people that smile and drink stiff booze in the winter.

Pops - Mama - Pete -lil Sophie - CJ - Ricky Dee & me...

Yosemite falls is amazing..even in ponchos!

And beginning again. At different times of the year, I always feel like I'm starting again. When new art needs to be done- to reinvent myself, and remember all the wonderful Christmastime stoof that inspired me two weeks ago when I was traveling North.

At New years time- it seems like we all go through it.
Good luck to your New years Brains...don't take down your decorations too early-- it makes you cranky & sad! ---

I'm starting up some woodcut paintings this week- & I haven't done that kind for awhile. I'll be posting my progress, some how to's -and also'ill be teaching some workshops---- Here's to the process, creation - and not fearing the unknown! :)

Here's a snip-it of me 'oliday....

Holiday Stoof -Photo Album on Facebook

-mm

Have a great Holiday...

2010-12-15T10:25:00.001-08:00

Happy Christmas & Merry Holidays to you all!
Thank you for all of your artistic love & support through the years...
love Miss Mindy & Rick O'Brien

- - - - - - - - - - - -La la la lala! A snow moos-tache man for you....

love- mm

Holiday Party @ our Glendale Studio this Sat.

2010-12-06T22:26:00.000-08:00

Join us this Saturday for our...
Annual Holiday Party!

DEC 11th / 5:30 -10pm

604 A South Chevy Chase
Glendale CA 91205

~
Please come on by to enjoy friends, family,
& Surround yourself in artwork from 3 generations!

~
-Yummy snacks 'n Christmas drinks will be served,
handmade ornaments & artwork will be for sale...

~
But most importantly,
It's a party to celebrate the holidays with old and new friends
who've traveled our artistic journey with us!

All ages are welcome - - - We hope to see you Saturday!

lv-

Cj, MM, & LJA Design
***************************************

2nd Annual Merry Dr. Sketchy's this Sunday!

2010-12-01T23:21:00.000-08:00

Join us for our 2nd annual
Merry Dr. Sketchy's - 'Yule Ball' !!!
We (My crazy artist husband Rick O'Brien & I) only host seasonally ( and skipped fall, whoops!) - So these are very special, and Rick and I take sooper care in getting the models and sets ready for you all!

There will be tons of Christmas cheer and Hogwarts Sassafras going around -
So all of you 'life drawing' freaks, please join us!
It's a party too, so bring your artsy fartsy pals....
Click here for Ticketing info & address: http://www.drsketchy.com/index.php/branch/LosAngeles

-It may be chilly, but our firepits will be burnin' & hot coco steamin' w/ whiskey.
Please bring a jacket, and a sit-upon if your picky.

if it rains. bring watercolors.

Hope to see you!

:)mm

New Etsy Store UP!

2010-11-30T00:38:00.001-08:00

Please stop on by and take a look see...
my new ETSY SHOP is up and runnin'--
Just in time for holiday fun!
New stuff will be posted for the next couple weeks-
from Originals to LE artist proofs & hand Embellished prints!
(I'm trying to squeeze out a few more Kokeshi too!)

http://www.etsy.com/shop/MissMindyArtist

Please drop me a line : info@missmindy.com if you have print requests! Then I can post it up for ya.... - :)mm

Happy Thanksgiving! A drawing for you...

2010-11-24T22:04:00.000-08:00

Have a good one fellow bloggers... and be nice to you relatives.
Unless they drive you nuts- - -then just drink heavily to subdue the pain.
LOVE!
-mm

This Weekend!

2010-11-17T13:05:00.000-08:00

Miss Mindy & Ricky-Dee say:
"Come on out to North East LA this Sunday for the 18th Annual Discovery Tour!"

Our artist family has been on this tour for many years..
The Arroyo Arts collective is the best grass roots arts organization- and the tour always takes you to such cool unusual artist abodes and galleries..
We'll be drawing people, hanging out in the mushroom house- creating things...
come see us!

Advance tickets are available for just $10 online at the ArroyoArtsCollective.org web site
or at Galco’s Old World Market at 5702 York Blvd.
But after 10 pm on Saturday, advance ticket sales will close and the on-site price will be $15.
All artists on the tour are listed on the AAC web site, and tourists can plan their stops in advance by checking out the site and making a list of which artists they want to see.

http://www.arroyoartscollective.org/

_________________________________________

ALSO! I'll be at Designer Con this weekend at 3pm at the Baby Tattoo Booth,
and just hangin' around - possibly live painting--- It's such a great event, stop by on Saturday!

Here's the info:

http://www.designercon.com

_________________________________________

:)mm

Break on Through to the Other side!

2010-11-16T09:53:00.000-08:00

This is a very special blog post.

I was invited my insanely talented friend & colleague Greg Spalenka,
who is the mastermind behind the' Artist as Brand' revolution,
to give my thoughts on this subject:
-what inspired me to create a career outside the confines of the corporate world?

( a light question.. ha ha ha...)

I've always had an insane passion for doing my personal work.
I started going by my artsy fartsy name "Miss Mindy" about 9 years ago when I started to take my art to conventions & underground shows. I've 'shlept' more artwork, and books to crazy events than I can name. Sweatin' so much, that I had to wear a full on bandanna! -But it was always worth it. The people I've met, are the reason that I can do what I do right now. To learn how to actually talk to my peers & clients, and network in an 'un-shysterly' fashion, is priceless. I just try do what I enjoy, and have found if you put yourself out there..they'll find you, and you them!

As for bustin' out of Corporate. (I too) have found myself in the past getting sucked into the 'paycheck.' Of course! We all need funds--- but found it would take me further and further away from what was special about myself, and my personal style was taking a major toll. So that is what inspired me to take action. To give myself the time of day, and make a name for myself in the art world so I can do my own work until I'm old 'n gray! So yes, a little creative book keeping can keep you on track, and depending on the season, 'freelance' with product companies may still be on the plate, but keeping it on your own terms is the key I've found. Doing it for the 'Company of Me' if you will! I've done everything from toys to t-shirts, but always in my 'Miss Mindy' style, it helps promote my 'pop fine art' career. Our passion for our ideas and different styles is what makes us sought after...'stay gold' fellow artists!

Miss Mindy
www.missmindy.com

Read the other fascinating posts here!
Greg Spalenka/ 'Artist as Brand' founder & organizer of this blog session!
art writer/author Peter Clothier, artist licensing expert Maria Brophy,
Champion of the handmade Nicole at Lillyella, & San Francisco painter Anna L. Conti:

Artist As Brand

Persist: The Blog

Maria Brophy

Lillyella

Working Artist Journal

New Outlet! - Leanna Lin's Wonderland this weekend & beyond!

2010-11-10T16:45:00.000-08:00

Join us in NorthEast LA -this saturday...

HEART ON OUR SLEEVE..new art 'n' goods by Miss Mindy & CJ Metzger

Nov. 13th 6-10pm
for some food, art & fun at our new outlet for artist sister stuff!

Leanna Lin's Wonderland!

http://www.leannalinswonderland.com/

5024 Eagle Rock Blvd.

LA CA

art show runs till Dec. 29th

Both mine & my sister Cj's product & art goodies will be there for the season-
and beyond!

So check in regularly...for some cool things we don't make too often, like sculpted beads, & one of a kind cool Kokeshi's & LE prints!

Hope to see yoooo!

lv-mm

Last chance to see 'Aardbei Hoofd'!

2010-11-04T09:06:00.000-07:00

What a fun show, rock bands that dress up like fruits, vegetables & foul---
and ya only gots until this weekend to 'take in' all the humorous/sullen/silly artwork!
Soooo get out to Bergamont Station this weekend if you can...it opens your eyes to so many different ways of creating-- the galleries are so different, And say hello to my art piece "Aardbei Hoofd" -aka: strawberry head, if you happen to go by The Copro gallery --

click here to see photos: MM FB Album

stay cool kiddos...

-mm

Halloween/dia de los muertos/and all the souls....

2010-11-01T19:19:00.000-07:00

ahhh Toulouse... So Happy I got to see your art this weekend too......
-and such a great outfit, I wish we were friends.

Jorge & his wonderful art--ready to break into tune.....

"must eat my guitar!" - Dolly Pardon

-and the Lovely "bran-slice..."

I hope everyone had a creepy Halloween & froze their rears off gettin' candy!

- San Diego was great-o ! All of the art was so wonderfully done-I wanted all of Sandra's sculptures (see more pics here.) OoooH---& Bran-slice and I had fun dollin' up and painting our selves in honor of our friends & loved ones lost... they definitely came to the show with us!---- all the wonderful souls...

-mm

Halloweeners here!

2010-10-28T15:08:00.000-07:00

So Halloweenies- this weekend, some old friends of mine have curated a great show, with amazing artists! nope, I'm not in this one- you guessed it! ha haha... so anywho- I'm chuggin' down to San Diego with my best pal 'Bran Slice'- and dollin' up Day of the Dead style. I'm really looking forward to it- and I hope you can go support 'em at the SUBTEXT Gallery! -
click here for info!

Also- I had to throw in my 'crazy power tool girl face' today. Ricky-dee's been teaching me how to use, pin-ers and brad nail guns- which run by compressed air! hardcore! AIR! rock! - okay, better finish this commission- or I can't go to the show Friday... aaah!

Have a fun weekend, and let me know all about it...all the gory details.

:)-mm

rainy day schedule...

2010-10-20T09:03:00.001-07:00

I just dolled up my studio/dining room - whatever you wanna call it--
we don't 'dine' in there. so yes, studio. heh.

I found a new little vintage stool that I've been keeping my eye out for years!--ahhh at last--the perfect height for my table--I know it seems simple. but I'm sooooper excited to have revamped my whole workspace...it's ready fro some big projects! cleared los head.

gifts from pals 'n' lil things I like.....I keep them in eye sight to make me happy-Life drawings from different models.... (below, my attempt at a man--wow!)

A painting in progress for Leanna Lin's Wonderland, in Eagle Rock--
Mine & my sisters new outlet in Northeast LA!
Join us for our kick off Nov 13th 6-10pm....
for all sorts of unusual art/products/prints from us chickens !

I hear there will be yummy food trucks there and some free gifties--

I sure hope you'll join us- I'll post more info as it gets closer.

And last but certainly not least...Thought it'd be fun to see a throwback to the 2009 art jam
( I never posted it--whoops!)

Everybody play nice now... BTV Art Jam 2009

Have good rainy day.

-mm

Aftermath...

2010-10-07T13:52:00.001-07:00

Rick in the midst of his 50 sketches..all from live models we had in our room... whew!

Lil' ol' me and "cooper" my favorite attendee...

A blurry Robert Williams in the Catacombs... bizarro evening ------!

Here's some of my favorites of the 50 that I drew...

and a sketch for one of the folks....

Ricky dee workin' on "Art Jam" #2....

and Ricky Dee and the Rainbows...outside our room--- beautiful!

___________________________

I've put an album up on my facebook page if you'd like to check out more pictures of the event. -very fun.

Baby Tattooville is always a great time...I get re-inspired, and have had the pleasure of meeting some of my favorite artists---Thanks Bob so much for another awesome weekend!

:)MM

Riverside... Here I come!

2010-09-29T19:25:00.000-07:00

Quick peek pour vous:
The process it takes to get 50 lil arts goin' is crazy..
the sheer amount of prep..... and when you have a week and a half-- I do the hustle!
yes- and 70's dance.. ;)

Ok - what are they for--? why do you do this to yourself? heh-he.
It's for an event called Baby Tattooville.

Bob Self, my publisher & friend- dreamt up this magical event. I was so happy to be one of the featured artists last year. Meeting so many new friends has helped me to come out of my "art shell" ---and be more active in the 'artsy fartsy' world again--Honestly, I was getting kinda tired of it. But there ARE fun people... hurray! and nice! ---thank god. But yeah, sometimes I still don't wanna leave the cave-- heh.

But yesiree Bob ( ha ha) , this weekend, artist Rick O'Brien ( my hubs, and amazing painter & madman!) and I are both involved... madly making artwork for the hardcore art lovers that got tickets--- it feels good. ( especially since it's not so damn hot in my studio tonight!) work work work...

My friend Brandi Milne summed the event up well..so I suggest you visit her blog too for info, and fun pictures from past shows. She's on top of it--- hot damn! I try... ;P

Here's me and my favorite paintbrush.. 'young blood'.

stamped the dyed papers with a gocco custom screen printer-- they rule...

the dying process... coffee AND tea.. smelled horrible actually-- with the heat 'n' all.

Mr Sun sure helped me dry those papers out---I'm surprised they didn't catch on fire!
-----

I'll be sure to post all the juicy details when I get back, I have a feelin' it's gonna be nuts...

Be well folks!

:)-mm

Makiko, the giant Savior...

2010-09-21T10:53:00.000-07:00

Thought I'd post one of my paintings from 'Pie in the Sky' for this week...
Shes' about 5 1/2 feet of Japanese pie-lovin animal fun, painted with acrylic & pencil on wood. I'm really looking forward to lining up models....but until then.. I'm sooooper busy focusing on a bunch of 'secret art thingies' I'm doing for this years Baby Tattooville -- sold out! Rick O'Brien, my sweetheart, will be contributing as well this year --- The head-lining artists are pretty amazing-- so If ya got tickets... have fun, and I'll see you there!

:)mm

Hosting Dr Sketchy's LA...

2010-09-16T19:52:00.000-07:00

Hey Everybody.. were hosting another Dr. Sketchy's Life Drawing session:
Bob from Baby Tattoo Books is at it again.... Brace yourselves.

Get Tickets and info to about the drawing event HERE

Saucy.

-mm

Good Show--!

2010-09-12T15:51:00.001-07:00

The film rolled on through the evening...Me and my lovely Brandy/i's....

My wonderful sister CJ & my big -gigantic hair.

The art show peoples hanging around enjoying themselves in wonderment!...ha hah..

Lil 'Soph' in the film... my little muse.

and 'Bernie' in my hair... we had a ball.

Thank you so much for making this show so successful, full of love and inspiration!
After I get my 'land legs' back-- my new work begins.
I found something during the preparation for this show.. and I'm excited to keep exploring--

until then... Please visit the WWA Gallery this month whilst the show still hangs!

www.wwagallery.com

with gratitude,

M.Mindy

Finishing Touches..Lets do this!

2010-09-06T17:20:00.000-07:00

PIE IN THE SKY -
the art of : Artsist Sisters -CJ Metzger & Miss Mindy

RECEPTION: THIS FRIDAY 7-10PM

WWA gallery 9517 Culver Blvd Culver City, CA 90232

NICE PRESS--- Hooray! check it out...

JUXTAPOZ: 'BackTalk' interview ---HERE.
Industrial Squid's PIE STORY ------HERE.
JUXTAPOZ: Show Rundown story --HERE.
CURATED MAG -----------------------HERE.
DAILY Du Jour------------------------HERE.

Oh I'm excited , nervous, and need to take a shower...pullin' a late one tonight--he he
I sure hope to see you at this show.. .It's really special. Not a stick in site to put up this arts 'arsh'. Positive, honest, drawings, paintings, film...and whatever our weird little minds felt like. We put extra lovin' into it.

:)mm

New Sketch Theatre Up!

2010-08-31T17:26:00.000-07:00

This was drawn at The Gnomon /Sketch Theatre booth at Comic-con with my artist friend Buff Monster. Him and his lady are such cool people... I invite you to go see his art show this weekend at The Corey Helford Gallery in Culver City. Hopefully Ricky-dee and I will be there- but he got a bad knee injury and I may be playin' nurse-- wish him well! --and enjoy the video..... CLICK HERE.
:)mm

Sneeky Von Peeky...

2010-08-19T23:34:00.000-07:00

Show at WWA inching closer..... sister and I've been soooooo busy----studio busting. bustling. boobing...baaaa!

:)mm

Comic-con craziness with Mr. 'Weta'!

2010-08-19T17:28:00.001-07:00

More pie!

2010-08-17T16:09:00.000-07:00

This is cracking me up.

:)-mm

Rolllllin'......

2010-08-15T15:12:00.001-07:00

PIE SHOTS..more to come!--since I was in the film, and covered in cream--It was hard to take photos, but here's a few,--and in progress pics of CJ, sophie & I making the town of "Damsel." ---:)mm

I pied Mr. Stay Puft. - dream come true.

Sophie was so into it. --:)
AAAhh Penny Star Jr...

More shennanigans & onto Making a small town out of Cardboard.....

What will happen to the town.... hmmm. I wonder.....

:)love mm

Filming!

2010-08-13T17:04:00.000-07:00

--and on to the next crazy project... lil' blurry-sorry- I always get all the formatting crap wrong for online! - anyway-- I'm filming a bunch of folks this weekend..we'll see what ensues!

:)mm

Traveling fool.

2010-08-07T15:24:00.001-07:00

So I've been traveling-- from Chicago to Portland.. doing art/costumes/signings/swimming/dancing... and having a good time in this crazy & beautiful world we live in. Spending time with the life 'outside' is something I tend to miss when stuck in an animation studio - or painting for hours on end. I need to get out. so I did. The art show in Portland was awesome, seeing my old friends - hanging out with the fairies in Eugene, then hiking along with Paul Bunyan in the 'Trees of Mystery'. My mind is full of so much now-- In the city, it can be so easy to get cynical and forget just how vast the earth is...there are so many people, different ways to live and places to see. Being present for your life. Pretty wordy for a girl in Skeksis costume hangin' with Vader & Bubba... hmm? hehehe..I have posted so much on my Facebook page about this costume..It was in a group called "Viva Los Villans) that won 'best in show' at Comic-con this year (more pics to come)... and we had a great time doin' it! Honestly, I think it was the the most fun I've had down there in awhile. Ridiculous! that my new word. Just be Ridiculous...in a good way.

More pictures to come... sifting through pics, and makin' a film...art is here.

Art is coming out of my ears...

2010-07-05T19:31:00.000-07:00

Hey Everyone- Just wanted to fill you in about ALL the shows I'm in this month and on into September! So save the dates & I sure hope to see you at one of these fun things... we'll have a beer!

_______________________________

SHOWS....

1st up

Giant Robot: group show "The Monster Within"
Show opens: Saturday, July 10th, 6:30-10pm at GR2.

50 artists to reinterpret the vinyl toy of "Buff Monster."

GR22062 Sawtelle Blvd. Los Angeles, CA 90025
http://www.gr2.net/

____________________________

2ndly

New works on Paper: - - - -"Miss Mindy's Naked Tea Party"

Screaming Sky Gallery , Portland, OR.
http://www.screamingskygallery.com/

----Here's a sneek peek of the art!

Reception & Live Painting by moi----July 29th 5-9:30!

shows runs: July-August

______________________________

3rd-lee

Comic-con: book signings
Baby Tattoo Books booth

Friday July 23rd @ 2pm
-Come on by and say hi!

Funny News: I've created bizarre & silly costume, and will be in this years 'Masquerade'.
Yes, it was on my 'bucket list.' She has been sworn to secrecy as to what it is, but will post the humorous happenings!

______________________________________

4th-ily
WWA Gallery - - - - - - -"Pie in the Sky"

First solo exhibition together in almost 3 years!
Artwork by Artist Sisters CJ Metzger & Miss Mindy

Please visit miss mindy's blog for fun news about art creations in progress & the process of their video installation, " A Pie for a Pie," as all the mayhem unfolds.

Show Opening Reception: Friday Sept 10th, 7-10pm
shows runs; Sept. 10th - August 9th

Show is in Culver City! I know we haven't shown solo in our home town
of 'the Greater LA Area' in awhile... but not anymore! Come and
join us, it's gonna be super fun--with pies!

www.wwagallery.com

-Sooo I'm off to Chicago next week, & will be all over town! I'll 'tweet' some of it- if I'm feeling the 'computer chat need' ( sometimes I have to unplug-- we'll see..)---I'm really lookin' forward to drawing in a new place & meeting new folks & galleries, as long as my paper doesn't blow away! har har... hopefully I can bring my ink bottle on the plane..hmmm

:) Be well folks, Love-M.Mindy

sketching & makin' stuff...

2010-06-24T09:30:00.000-07:00

Workin' away in my studio with lil' Sirius....Got TONS of new art in the works for upcoming shows....cool old reclaimed frames everywhere, watercolor paper comeing out of my arsh.. & the scroll saw is full blast. bzzzzzzzzzzzz.

Now I'm just trying to figure out what bird I'm going to wear on my head for Brandi's show sat... hmmm.... hope to see ya'll there!
:)mm

Drawing in Trees, NM Trip & uh oh-here's summer...

2010-06-08T22:38:00.000-07:00

Santa Fe Feet- yes I crawled under the table.

POP went great... I swear, I always love going there - even though I'm not nuts about the desert. It snows, it rains, it gets hot as hell sometimes, but it good there. Honest. people who just like art- and want to walk around and look at it some more. Appreciate it, and live.The artists are sooo comfortable to be around. Sometimes LA wears on me... I smile at folks- and instantly they think your weak and treat you like crap. I think being positive and taking a chance on people is one of the hardest things to do... you put your heart on a plate everyday, and hope no one steps on it... Road trips always help bring my soul back. To get away from the routine, and expectations and find what I'm creating for once again, always reinventing- but sometimes wanting to recluse---ahhh the human struggle! ha ha - ok rant. Let's show some pictures of some adventures ArtLand...

The Renaissance Faire--- oh! how many thousands of pictures I wish I could show you..

Eventually----but here's one of my favorites for now.

Hosted another Drawing session at our home studio/gnome home last Sunday...here's what it felt like,

We all had a great time drawin', I squeezed in a few inkworks that night--but was so excited to be out in the yard w/pals-- Just getting inspired by the different styles, and burning into my mind the beauty of the human form in nature. --- we weren't born with clothes. But if we were -I'd want stripes.

Rick O'Brien. yes, my husband rules. It was his birthday on Monday---
He and I have done so many art projects together. The patience it takes to have two artists work together, with strong opinions---understanding how another artists brain works can be so maddening. He respects my art heart, and I his--- ( the other woman and man!) Both Rick and I have so much art we can't show you due to non-disclosure agreements for studios-left and right... that what we've doing over the last half a year-- so I wish we could show you, but sadly...can't! So, here's some 'progress' photos... one is a secret casting that Rick taught me the ropes on. I'll be able to show you this crazy costume project in July! what can it be? hmmmm.

"hey ma! I learned how to use a cintiq while watching Colombo!" -- we abused this computer beast this year-- yes I'm old school ---inking & painting..but for some things you need digital artillery! Dig the hour glass? - I swear we used it.... pace man- pace.
And on to the end... summers coming ( eeewww hot) BUT! I'm excited to haul some ass on a whole new body of work I'm doing. I'll post some progress... thoughts on creating- I honestly was truly inspired by my friend Brandi Milne to write some honest feelings about the art process- the ups and downs, the super rewards, and the burning of newsprint.. beginning again.

-mm

Back in the mix...

2010-06-02T21:17:00.000-07:00

Hey there peeps... Yes indeed Santa Fe went great!
I'm lookin' through photos & deciding what to post-- until then, please come to our drawing workshop this Sunday! We host a Dr. Sketchy's a few times a year... and this "Midsummer nights Dream" drawing session will be once again nestled in our trees, ahhh drawing on the hill... this sunday, June 6th at 7pm. Please see Dr. Sketchy's LA for ticketing & details!

-mm

POP Santa Fe....

2010-05-26T18:34:00.000-07:00

OK OK.. so I'm done putting paint-brushes in my boobs & off to Santa Fe New Mexico! - I'm in a group show & Benefit this weekend at the POP Santa Fe gallery. I'll have a few new pieces and live painting for the show attendees! Aaaaaahhh!!!! Yup- It's just me and my ink brush...*gulp* wish me luck.... ( may I have another beer please before I start maam?)
---
I'll be "tweetin" some of the fun happenings on my
twitter page:
Join in! Miss Mindy on Twitter
---
3rd Annual POP Femme Sugar Coated Strange 2010
May 21 - June 30, 2010
Opening reception: Saturday,
May 29, 6:00-8pm
133 West Water Street
Santa Fe, NM 87501
505.820.0788
---
Show opens May 21st- June 30th with artist reception Memorial weekend
Saturday, May 29th. In POP tradition the show will host an art raffle
with 100% of the proceeds to benefit Southwest C.A.R.E. Center,
a Santa Fe based non profit that supports New Mexicans living with AIDS & HIV, without prejudice.

Here's a few of the talent crew taking part in this show: Carrie Ann
Baade, Catherine Brooks, CJ Metzger, Marie Sena, Christen K,
Kristen Margiotta, Tina Darling, Aunia Kahn, Lesley Reppeteaux, Emily
Trovillion and Lisa Sartor among others...

I'll take some videos of the 'live painting action packed-ness'
---& pics from the show and share upon my return.....
_____________________________________________________

PLUS! Please join us for a SPECIAL Dr. Sketchy's at Mine & Ricks pad.
JUNE 6th. Please see the website as it gets updated for ticketing details! http://drsketchyla.com/
_____________________________________________________

Love to you all--mm

Ready-in' for POP gallery 2010...

2010-05-07T20:48:00.000-07:00

It's Friday night.. and I'm in my studio paintin' away...
Sooo people in computer land... How many paint brushes can Miss Mindy hold in her cleavage? To the person who gets the right answer first--wins..ehh... a paint brush! ha ha ha...

In progress art for---

Sugar Coated Strange @ Pop Gallery
Pop Santa Fe, New Mexico

3rd Annual POP Femme Sugar Coated Strange 2010
May 22 - June 30, 2010
Opening reception: Friday, May 22, 6:00
Show opens May 14th- June 30th with artist reception
Memorial weekend Saturday.

In POP tradition the show will host an art raffle with 100% of the proceeds to benefit Southwest C.A.R.E. Center, a Santa Fe based non profit that supports New Mexicans living with AIDS & HIV, without prejudice. Here's some of the broads involved! Carrie Ann Baade, Catherine Brooks, CJ Metzger, Miss Mindy, Marie Sena, Christen K, Kristen Margiotta, Tina Darling & Aunia Kahn among others...
Come on to New Mexico & Join us...
I'll be doing custom Ink drawing ( with a REAL brush from my boobs! wowee!)

:)mm

Lunch Bunch Donation art finally done!

2010-04-29T16:13:00.001-07:00

Welp - I finally delivered the gigant-o piece of art to donate to the lunch bunch!

It was started back in January at our "Trappings" show at The WWA Gallery, & it's just in time for their Benefit this May! I'm so happy it turned out so well-- All the ladies sure put a lot of extra heart into it...a nibble here and there--between artshows, animations jobs--and all the crazy things we do to make artful livings, it came together so nicely, and I just wanted to say thank you to the girls who worked on it: CJ Metzger (of course!) Dee Chavez, Celene, Jeni Yang --and yeah, I did a bit 'o' work on it too! I hope you enjoy the finished art piece..
(It's a biggie- about 3 1/2 feet long!) I'll post more info when it goes up for bidding through the Lunch Bunch benefit! http://lunchbunchco.blogspot.com/

:)mm

LA Festival of books-!

2010-04-26T08:23:00.000-07:00

I'm runnin' out the door this mornin' but had to post this nonsense photo! ha!
I love the story in this.
:)mm

Open studio on Saturday---easy goin'

2010-04-23T11:29:00.000-07:00

Impromptu:

Open Studio -This Saturday---really relaxed, we're just openin' the doors so ya'll can come by, hang & look at art... ( sister soldier & I'll be workin' on art on and off all day..)

April 24th, 2010 4-9pm

at our family Studio:

604 A south Chevy Chase Drive

Glendale, CA, 91205

818.242.5303

(you'll see a sign out front--it's a backhouse)

We hope to see you.

love-mm

And yet Another Sketch Theatre session!

2010-04-17T11:33:00.000-07:00

I swear I can't get enough of doing these things--
they truly are so much fun. Thanks Lily.

CLICK HERE if the picture doesn't take you there.

My sweet man just did one as well-- check his out-- he's such a cra-zeh good painter!
Rick O'Brien : http://www.sketchtheatre.com/?p=4355

I'm learning a lot from him right now--( and him from me! ha ha ha) we're working on a big 'ol secret project together--and it's almost done-- I feel like my brain is going to explode, in both a good and bad way...We get a tad of time off tomorrow- & I'm so excited to go and play with my best friend Brandy Trigueros and Eddie at the Renaissance Faire.. nuttin' like squaffin' mead & eating legs of meat & cheese with your buds to get back into life! Not to mention that there are boobs there! All sorts. Rick and I have a secret plan for them things, that we'll reveal someday if we feel like the town needs it.

-It's been a turbulent time the past half a year, so much change--good and bad--- I'll miss my sweet friends Dad with all my heart, honestly... I haven't even wanted to post anything at all. But now for some reason.. I'm having a huge bout of positive energy & change, and want to create more than ever... ( how bi-polar is this post?) he heh... Much health and love to ya'll that peek at my blog from time to time... I have some great art shows coming up this year - in Oregon, Santa Fe & LA...I'll post my progress on various art pieces---My workshop and inkwell is pulsing to create-and I'm so glad...

:)mm

I'm up on Sketch Theatre--!

2010-02-23T00:22:00.000-08:00

Miss Mindy---SKETCH THEATRE -stint

CLICK HERE.

it's a very cool 'time lapse drawing theatre' of many artists I admire...
--wish I could draw this fast in real life when I have art show deadlines!-ha!

ENJOY.
:)mm

in my Art...& Out in the world -

2010-02-18T13:17:00.001-08:00

---------------------- gotta balance.

Wax Poetic & Jose Vera Closing show..

2010-01-26T20:15:00.001-08:00

Hi Folks-- There are two shows going on this weekend w/this little dame.... !

in the above photo: painting away on the art Jam at baby Tattooville...Miss Mindy & James Gurney- 2nd wave along with Audrey Kawasaki and Greg Simkins)

WAX POETIC GALLERY PRESENTS:
BABY TATTOOS PRIVATE COLLECTION:
7 years of Art Shenanigans.
SATURDAY, JANUARY 30, 2010.
from 8-11 p.m.

This event is free and open to the public.
Records will be spinning and refreshments will be served.

This is the 7th collaboration between Wax Poetic and Baby Tattoo Books, a company that publishes books, produces events and promotes artistic lifestyles.
Over the course of seven years in the art business, Baby Tattoo has developed professional relationships with some of todays most popular contemporary artists, and has amassed a fascinating collection of artwork.

Some of the artists Baby Tattoo has worked with (as a publisher or as an event producer) include Ana Bagayan, Glenn Barr, Gary Baseman, Tim Biskup, Luke Chueh, Dave Cooper, Bob Dob, Gris Grimly, James Gurney, Thomas Han, James Jean, Christy Kane, Audrey Kawasaki, Frank Kozik, Joe Ledbetter, Lola, Travis Louie, Elizabeth McGrath, Tara McPherson, CJ Metzger, Miss Mindy, Buff Monster, Brandi Milne, Daniel Peacock, Ragnar, Johnny KMNDZ Rodriguez, KRK Ryden, Jeffery Scott (1019), Shag, Seonna Hong, Greg Craola Simkins, Amy Sol, Jeff Soto, Amanda Visell, Michael Whelan and Yoskay Yamamoto.

Many of these artists will be represented within the exhibition.

Wax Poetic Salon & Gallery:
3208 W. Magnolia Blvd. Burbank, CA 91505 818-843-9469

__________________________________________________

Closing Show at Jose Vera Gallery - Eagle Rock

"Altars & Icons", on Saturday, Jan. 30th, from 6-9pm.
Showcasing generations of our families artwork... 1930's to present.

In thanks for all the support our friends & collectors have given us - we're offering a free raffle of art gifts just for your coming, ....a book set from the artist sisters, a "sassy paper doll" book from Miss Mindy, and a ceramic piece from Linda J. Allen. Linda ( me madre!) will also be working on a ceramic mask during the evening for those curious about clay sculpture. Drop by and have some fun! ----Celebrate in the new year of 2010, enjoying creativity!

Jose Vera Fine Art & Antiques:

2012 Colorado Blvd, Eagle Rock, CA
http://www.joseveragallery.com/

Hope your holidays were warm and wonderful.
Best wishes, Linda Johnstone Allen, CJ Metzger and Miss Mindy
www.ljafineart.com www.cjmetzger.com www.missmindy.com

_____________________________________________

:)mm

Just a reminder about tonights art show....

2010-01-15T11:12:00.000-08:00

We hope to see you!

---My sister and I don't curate shows that often... and are excited about the lovely selection of very talented ladies we found, Thanks gals for being apart of the show!--- live painting starts at 7pm.....

kindly, mm

Trappings! - group show....

2010-01-04T20:46:00.000-08:00

Happy New Year!
-- Here's a show that my sister CJ and I curated....
brand new art, from a slew of talented ladies...we hope you'll join us to start this year off on 'the good foot!'

Friday, January 15, 2010
7:00pm - 10:00pm

- we'll be doing live painting for a good cause!

WWA gallery- Culver City

9517 Culver Blvd. Culver City,

CA 90232

www.WWAgallery.com

310.836.4992

Hours: Tuesday to Saturday 11-5pm

Press Release link on FB

- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -

Please pass along to your friends, and join us for new art & a drink or two!

:)mm

Happo-Holidaze!

2009-12-21T20:43:00.000-08:00

Here's hoping you have a very Merry Christmas- Happy Holidays & a good Darn-tootin' New Year! Thanks for looking...
-mm

Dr. Sketchy's this Sunday!

2009-12-14T21:54:00.000-08:00

Dr. Sketchy’s Los Angeles Session 013
This special drawing event will be a holiday party held at the private residence of artists (us chickens) Rick O’Brien and Miss Mindy on Sunday, December 20, 2009.

Festivities will begin at 6:00 PM, and will continue until everyone goes home.
There will be cupcakes & booze (arrive early for best selection!) This is going to be a fun and magical event with great models, good company, fire pits, naked people in trees & a life-size mushroom house!

- Drawing and other goings-on will be outdoors,
so dress appropriately for whatever Southern California weather the night of December 20 brings!
note: Bring your own art supplies & modify your set-up for drawing outside- -blankets available. BYO-'sit-upon' if yer picky. ______________________________________

Membership is $10 in advance via PayPal, click here: http://drsketchyla.wordpress.com/
or $12 at the door. The age requirement for this session is 18+.

If you would like to become a year-round member of Dr. Sketchy’s Los Angeles, with guaranteed admission to all regularly scheduled sessions between now and the end of 2010, click here for details.

Thanks so much & we hope to see you Sunday!
much LOVE-& have Happy Christmas/Holiday!
:)
__________________________
Miss Mindy & Rick O'Brien
http://www.missmindy.com/
http://www.themonumentproject.com/

Jose Vera Gallery this Sat. & ___________Hosting a Sketchy Christmas...

2009-12-09T01:20:00.001-08:00

Jose Vera Gallery - Family Show this Saturday

Back to our roots. We are proud to display some of my late-grandfathers art & Illustrations from the 30's-4o's, my mothers most recent ceramic masks- fresh out of the kiln, and a few new ones from myself and my sister.

"Altars and Icons"

Saturday Dec 12th

6-9pm

2012 Colorado Blvd.

Eagle Rock Ca 90041

Gallery Hours: weds-sun 11am-6pm

www.joseveragallery.com

-our show will be up until mid-January,

and they will be stocking all of our prints, books, and original art for the holidays! - We hope you'll stop on in and say hello--It's great place- filled to the brim with Antiques, art and unusual finds...

____________________Detail.

____________In Progress Goddess painting....

_________"Magdalene" - for Jose Vera Gallery, Eagle Rock.

Drawn at Dr. Sketchy's LA - - - -
----Which brings me to the next event!- a very fun and unusual one....

________________________________________________

Sketchy Christmas -hosted by Rick & Miss Mindy O'Brien
____________________________________________

Presale "tickets" have gone on sale -$10
http://drsketchyla.wordpress.com/

The 13th Dr. Sketchy's saucy 'life drawing' event will be held at our home/studio,

Sunday Dec. 20th

Our Place is a crazy elf land- complete with a mushroom house--
It will be adorned with Christmas Decor, libations & wonderful live models for us artists to enjoy!

note: Wear warm clothes, and modify your art set-up for drawing outside- -blankets available. BYO-'sit-upon' if yer picky. Holiday fun to ensue!

We hope to see you. Please sign up early, we may sell out!

Happy Holidays everybody....
love, Miss Mindy

Designer Con wrap up...

2009-11-25T21:44:00.000-08:00

This years -Fresh new Designer-Con in Pasadena was awesome!

I look forward to participating more next year. Perhaps live paintings... hmmm.

This time it was fun wearing Mr. comfy Beanie, signing some books, and peeking around at booths... in the process, a cool art project approached the Baby Tattoo Books booth from a chap named Linh. Wish I had this Idea! He got some great drawings from Dave Pressler, Greg Simkins, Ragnar, Christopher Lee and many more... hmmm I gotta get better at asking people to sign my sketchbook, so far I've got a Brandi Milne/Bob Dob combo, and a Tim Biskup! not too shabby eh? oh my- I must attack more artists.

Dave Pressler .YES!
Greg Simkins
Chris Lee --- and look! there's the cutie Kristine---

his sweet lady - whom I worked with on The Mighty B! --
Mr. Ragnar - such a doll, I love 'im. I wanted to steal a sketch of his.

And whos this bum...Geee, I'm drawing---Have a good thanksgiving! ---

-love mm

Designer Con Book Signing & Arroyo Arts Tour...

2009-11-19T20:51:00.000-08:00

Hey Guys.. This weekend is a double header !

( aww, my first sports-type reference....sorry)

This weekend is Designer Con www.designercon.com --

formerly known as The Vinyl Toy Network

I did a huge custom 'uncle' Vinnie for 'em last year,
and this year it's Yoka's turn!

Say hi to my piece---Sandy, as she sadly goes for a swim.
DKE put together quite a show of about 100 artists..My sister, CJ Metzger, Buff Monster, Anthony Ausgang, and MANY more will be on display...come see what the 'Yok' is up! ha hah..

I'll be signing at the Baby Tattoo booth
from 11am to noon ish- Nov.21st
...I have some special holiday stuffs I'm bringin' with me - so don't be shy and stop by!

_______________________________________________

Rick O'Brien update! -- later Saturday Evening... join us at:

M Modern in Palm Springs this weekend - Nov 21st -7pm

"Broken promise of the flying car"

My sweet man Rick will be in a group show with such artists as:
SHAG, The Pizz, Chris Reccardi, and many more.

-----We'll both be there and I hope you can join us....

______________________________________________________________________________

And don't forget! Sunday Nov 22nd is a HUGE gigantic open studio
for the entire North East LA area!....................................
Please see:
The Arroyo Arts Collective Discovery Tour for more info!

- Rick and I will be 'a stop' on the tour-- My mom Linda is gracing us with her amazing ceramic mask creations, whilst Rick and I work on art for upcoming shows... come and watch us work and see how boring we are... yay!

Much love and health to you all,
someone dear to me is very sick-- you must eat your vegetables everyone...Steam that Broccoli!

--love---mm

BabyTattooville painting el Prize-o!

2009-11-13T17:36:00.001-08:00

So-- Remember all that wooden Nickel Jabber that I was carrying on about in October? Welp, those were made as tokens to win this piece of art at Baby Tattooville! Miss Katie Crabb won the lil' Darlin'- and picked 'er up at my home studio-- I'm so glad my new painting has a good home.
I wanted to give it a lil' something special for the winner -- I bet she's tired of the whole "Crabb" thing but hell, my brain wanted a lil' crabby at the top.... arn't we all a little crabby at the top? - or bottom? uh-nevermind. Have a good weekend!

-mm

Happy Halloween kiddies!

2009-10-30T14:05:00.001-07:00

Thank you to all the peeps that came out to the gallery 50 show! - It was such a fun night... Rick and I almost drove into a bunch of bicyclists/day of the dead parade- that was making it's rounds around the neighborhood!-- sorry, I didn't get a picture....

and here's to Mr. Bill... always ready to go.

Below is an AMAZING gallery in Highland Park we went to after the show - The Mor York Gallery 4959 York Boulevard--

Take yourself out for a treat and see this space, if you collect old vintage stuff like I do-- you'll be amazed at what they do with it! - It's only open on Nela art nights. see this link for info!
This gallery had everything from vintage doll displays to carnival collections... My photos don't do it justice--- there is SO much to see and be inspired by!

.... and here's a detail of the painting I have at Ave. 50 gallery.yeah I know, cheezeball. he he.

I'll leave you this 'ol hallows eve with a picture of my eyepatch for

"The Benefit of Mister Fred" in New Orleans.

"PROJECT EYEPATCH - Saturday, November 7th , 7-10pm.
Where: BANKS STREET BAR, New Orleans

To see more details and RSVP, follow the link below:
EYEPATCH Show-FACEBOOK

Good luck to my artist pal P.H. Fred and his good eye!
I hope this Fundraiser knocks his socks off!

:)have a good one! -mm

Avenue 50 Gallery Show

2009-10-08T23:36:00.001-07:00

My sister and I are a part of a group show this weekend @
Avenue 50 Gallery / Studios --
"MUERTOS CON LECHE ~"
Light Hearted and Satirical
Saturday, October 10 , 2009
starting at 7 p.m.
131 N. Avenue 50Highland Park
323 258 1435

Sister Christian is out of town, so you just got me goin' - sorry folks!
-I hope to see you . ( and sorry about the ghetto photo! the art was mid- way done..)
-mm

BabyTattooville

2009-10-08T00:01:00.000-07:00

BabyTattooville 2009 was insanely fun..
Here's all us artist's with our 'Art Jam' painting Sat. night: James Gurney, Michael Hussar, Audrey Kawasaki, Travis Louie, Elizabeth McGrath, (moi) Miss Mindy, Johnny KMNDZ Rodriguez, KRK Ryden, Greg "Craola" Simkins, Yoskay Yamamoto, Buff Monster and The Lovely Miss Molly Crabapple.

--- It was so nice to meet all the artists...not to mention work along side each other. To hang out with the attendees was so very cool.. I've never met so many people so incredibly psyched about art - thank you for making me feel welcome.
_________________________________________________
Yes My Wooden Nickels actually got done before the guests arrived on Friday...
I was happy & exhausted! Watching them pick out their "Loot Bag" was my favorite part -- I got to see most of the folks open their bags and pull out their handmade sucker- and then Nickel. Their faces were like Christmas.

Below are two of the cards from our "Duets" evening... -- artists draw on these special cards 50/50 courtesy of arrested motion. These two were me, Buff Monster and Yoskay...

Sucker Madness.... This is how I made the Custom sucker gift for the attendees of Baby Tattooville -First the sculpt.... (I used super sculpey)

Then cook up the secret formula... ( sugar sugar sugar sugar diabetes sugar)

-don't forget to place your tripod on your stove with a large twist-tie attached to your candy thermometer to achieve the right temperature! ( Our pan was too shallow, so I had to get creative.. ha ha)

pour le gooooo... into le fairy face....(after you make the mold of course-- 'Sill-Putty' works awesome.)

and waaa--- la! The custom candy shop -- enough sugar to make you crazy! Thank you Rick for helping me with the assembly line. I owe you the biggest Guinness ever. 0r three.

______________________________________________

Below are some sketches I did for the attendees..... _______________________________________________

And lastly and certainly not least... out lovely room at The Mission Inn!

Who does this to toilet paper- really? - they do. You know it --I kept it, and will wear it in my hair to some artsy fart-y thing.

Thank you to my sweet man Ricky-Dee, without you I would have gone insane...

and to Bob Self, for publishing my books and supporting my art habbit. Thank you.
-mm

Here's some press about the event:

BOING BOING

Flicker

Riverside art museum show

Hardcore!

2009-09-24T02:36:00.001-07:00

Check her out. Don't tease this lil' mess! She don't care 'bout squat, but does kinda.. in her eyes ..but she's still hardcore, see. "Whatever man", she says.

And also....Whilst at the Long Beach Flea Market I came across poor naked Pinocchio! geees. - - - - - - - - - -how much?
What a lovely hot and sweaty mornin' we had lookin' at junk! Thank you ladies, and get this -they're both named.. Brandi & Brandy. Crazy! I'm gonna buy a lottery ticket!

And lastly, fake dogs-- way too funny.
SHOW news: Here's what I painted for the Monster Mash show in Hawaii! - - -
It's this weekend if any of you are lucky enough to live there! Wish I could-ah put myself in the envelope with the art -boo hoo. I wanna snorkel.

Here's a couple details and the full shot of "The Shyster Monster" and a CD cover I did for Mr. Fred's Round Pegs and Bass Peeps! - an awesome band -based in New Orleans..
I'll post when their CD comes out! A sneak peek of my "Baby Tattooville attendee gift sooper hot-shot assembly line art machine."

It's so hot shot, it's made of burlap... DAMN girl! Just stamped me some secret Looooooot baggggggsssss.....shhhhhh burlap can hear you!

Oh I've got butterflies in my tum tum, but I'm lookin' forward to it. But you days can go by slow, because I need the time. thank you.

-mm

My own personal sweat shop...

2009-09-17T01:01:00.000-07:00

This month is a busy one! --- I have my headband.. watchin' my fingers whilst workin' on the saw... and doing a buncha art for different shows.

The Biggest job right now is the BabyTattooville paintings for attendees. Also on le plate, is a piece for a show in Hawaii at The China Town Boardroom gallery, and one for a satire Day of the Dead show at the Ave. 50 Gallery.
----artshow flash!... The Kokeshi doll show at JANM is coming down in two weeks.. so go see all the beautiful dolls before they're gone!

A new love of mine is customizing old vintage objects. The sniveling sibling in Eagle Rock is full of awesome old, reasonably-priced old crap! I actually found one of those old metal "kid bounce- ride-y things" ( someone help me here) -- pictured above, and I am in love with it! -- This weekend I'm going to the Long Beach flea market with my two Brandy-(i')s --and am on a quest for more cool old props 'n' toys to paint. I'll share my finds... and post progress on my '80 painting marathon-bonanza' soon! waaaaaaargh!!!

love-mm

Book signin' & pirate Burlesque tonight...

2009-09-13T12:14:00.001-07:00

Hi Mateys! -----My pal Lavender La Rue is putting on a Pirate Burlesque show at The Redwood Bar in downtown tonight, 9/13. I'll be signin' books from 9-12pm, and drinkin' beer. Come and join me!

Hope to see ya'll! -mm

Faerieworlds Oregon!

2009-08-20T02:24:00.000-07:00

------------Here we are at Faerieworlds, Eugene Oregon - 2009!

____My lovely Madre Linda, accompanied me on the Journey....

Obsessed! How much fairy stoofe can I tack on my head ?.........

______I was very fortunate to be a guest artist at the event... and met a bunch of artists I completely adore! ____________________ The Lovely Amy Brown.

____________________and Mr. Toby Froud

And.. Hey! I know this guy already.. but what a Darlin' Mr. Grimly is... My mom liked him a lot.

___and Artist J Corsentino's Time of the Fairies -- booth assistant, sweetheart face!

---And some stranger's baby! -- yay!

He was just so freakin' cute.... He looks like one of Brian Frouds paintings!

I'll be posting more pictures on my Flicker page HERE.
Also, I'm working on a video of the event-- you've got to see these fire dancer woodland peeps live-crazy!

:)mm

Comic-con wrap up...

2009-08-20T01:28:00.000-07:00

Yes, yes... I know It was in July, heh-
but too bad! I'm late, and with good reason too! errr... emm, hmmm.

Welp, to wrap up this years "Kahn" ( oh goody another nerd reference!)
Here's some pictures of the going's on:

I loved this batman, he was so "in to it." After this photo, he started jumping off some pillers infront of the GasLamp Hilton-- and then superman joined him! ahhhh humans are so cute when they get excited...The steampunkers are a cool addition to the convention-- I liked all the gadgetry everyone puts into their costumes.... And Thankyou to my wonderfully crazy designer friend Alisa Otten who joined me this year, ( Rick had to work..) So us broads...we painted the town green, drank on the train, and ate at this great lil' place called Cafe Noir.. Thanks Alisa!

Signed a ton of books.... Hurray!

--and last but certainly not least, I got to hang out with my Brandi Milne-- whom I adore..

Thank you everybody who stopped by and visited me in unfamiliar territory! Here's to the next bizarro art event we meet at - - -

love-mm

a huge sucking sound...

2009-07-30T09:35:00.001-07:00

Strange.. I always feel like one of those little creatures in 'the Dark Crystal' after Comic-con-- you know, the ones that get their essence sucked out? - maybe it was the cheetos.

anyway- on to the next thing--- up to Faerieworlds! I'll do a big post when I get back...

:)mm

comic-con

2009-07-22T09:03:00.000-07:00

hEY gUYS! --- Here's my comic-con info this year...

Booth 601 - Baby Tattoo Books booth /

I'll be there from Noon to 2pm on Sat.

and randomly through the weekend...most likely I'll find you this year instead of you finding me! ha ha aha....

___________________

I'll be signing my new book,

giving a away MM bookmarks,

a new paper doll card set,

new tee-shirts, this year for both comic-con and faerieworlds...

AND -- a super exclusive Paper doll costume not in the book!

-- sorry I'll only have 20 to 30 of them--

so see you Saturday at Noon if ya want this silly outfit!!

:)mm

Gettin' outta Dodge!

2009-06-29T08:31:00.001-07:00

So firsts things First... As you know, my book is out, hooray!
And you can buy it direct from me HERE.

Soooo....This years Comic-con is coming... July 23-26, 2009 and it's sold out!
and I'll be signing books Saturday & Sunday at The Baby Tattoo Books Booth.
(sorry folks, no booth of the Artist Sisters this year....)
But Please come and visit... I'll be hangin' out with my new super talented artist pal,
Brandy Milne and we'll have some fun treats for you! A comic-con exclusive is also in store,
-- a new paper doll outfit to the first 30 people who buy a book.... signed and numbered. I'll post signing times and the booth number when I know more info.....

Faerieworlds 2009! I goin' up to Oregon with the Fairy's. . .
check out the site! come and visit Brian & Wendy Froud, Gris Grimly, and a slew of great vendors and bands... I will be at the Baby Tattoo Booth August 1st & 2nd, Sat-Sun. If I'm not there I'm running around in some kind of Celtic Fairy get-up running around in a circle.

Art-News Flash! BabyTattooville note:
I will be apart of this years Art Event, for ticketing info, click Here.

And on a wedding pictures note... I've been in hibernation- - - I think I had sensory overload! So many exciting things happened all at once - but I swear, I will upload weddin' pics on flicker from all the friends& family, and not to mention Roxy's "pro photos" soon! Thanks for your patience and emails!

:)love (yup still) Miss Mindy -- O'Brien! ha! take that prefix police! ha ha ha....