2007 recap/plans for 2008

a few years ago, i set forth with this newfound attitude about and for entering the world of art, and how this is relevant to me specifically. Each year i find myself getting closer and closer to my goals, while discovering new ones at the same time..2007 was a major turning point as far as where things are going. i made it a goal in 07' to experiment and get involved in small shows, kinda hustling and making connections. this was more about experimentation than anything else. But i set a focus on painting portraiture last january,which led to rediscovering oils in may, and havent been able to stop ever since. ive painted 6 oil paintings, 3 skatedecks, 2 pen/ink comics, a bunch of freelance stuff, and even began getting amazingly beautiful photographs by chance when getting my reference and setting up shoots. it was all about resurrecting old interests, past mediums, and collectively using what ive learned in the last 6 or so years...
the tattoo world has been great as well, as ive made it to boston 2 times, and philly once for conventions,seminars,networking and the works. i got to do really awesome pieces this year, many of which are on my painting subjects. (latest tattoo on jellyboy the clown from philly, who is also the subject of a horribly dirty comic)..i got to meet and get a little demo from shawn barber in nyc last may, which really inspired my painting process. I then attended his solo show in august,and i highly recommend his painting dvd to any painter.
There is also a new project that ive been putting a lot of work into lately, though until i complete copyrighting and trademarking this new idea and product(s), yes, thats right Lots Of Merchandise in store, i cant reveal it.its been my focus and drive for the past 2 months... its all part of my plan to make some real cash from my art for 2008, while at the same time doing something completely original, working with venues for selling my stuff, doing what i love and seeing the monetary and artistically fulfilling reward.
I have a new perspective on life, especially the artists life. ive eliminated all drama and only continue relations with true, genuine people, who have the same vision and goals that i do. There is no negativity around me and its a great feeling. i have a wonderful family and awesome network of friends. i wish peace and prosperity to all my friends struggling in the same boat, happy new year, and God bless!
love magie

yeah

so while on a brief portrait painting hiatus, ive worked out the details of my newest project which is still top secret but will be revealed soon-its a big hurrah for merchandising some of my art-you'll see...
though as of late, ive been putting my photography skills to good use, setting up shoots with people ill be painting portriats of for my nyc performers series..the next shoot on the agenda is the funny as fuck drag queen Bianca Del Rio! he's amazing,and a friend of the man..yes, many drag queens in store, but only the good ones..

Coney Island Tattoos!

3 of my friends,who all work at Coney Island, wanted to get tripple matching tattoos...The funny face guy,sometimes known as Tilly...each one has a part of the phrase "with it, for it, never against it"..these were super fun to do! i even got as a tip an old "homemade tattoos" vintage from the reminants of an old sign shop that used to be in C.I..
damn blogger...cant seem to upload photos at the moment...will post them later...

update...

ok so today im another year older, and i had an awesome bday party this weekend...ive been taking a little break away from my paints, preparing for a large project..in tattoo news, ive been busy, doing a few cool pieces on select cool friends, but its been quiet...finally, i was asked to donate some art for a benefit art auction for Coney Island. the show is Nov 1st at max fish from 6-9 with a $20 donation at the door.

season is slowing down but....

This is was a super fun tattoo i got to do on the awesome burlesque dancer Dottie Lux..only rarely do i get to do fun things like this where i get total creative freedom from the drawing to execution


Then, right after her, i got to do another out of the ordinary staten island tattoo on another friend..

just finished....

"insectavora 1"
oil on oval canvas

flighty, tired,busy,oh my

so this past friday i was at the opening of shawn barbers nyc show at invisible gallery. it was really great (though packed in there like little helpless sardines). i am thoroughly inspired once again. He is one of my favorite artists, and is such a nice genuine person. must go paint now oh and by the way..
Heres some of my latest tattoo projects..some are works in progress..