the lovely artist blog

Desi on NYC TV!

2008-09-03T01:39:00.002-04:00

Check out Desi's amazing segment on NYC TV's website. She interviewed the designer of Central Park's amazing Aeroballoon ride.

Support LWALA!

2008-04-30T18:45:00.005-04:00

I invite you all to attend our amazing Artist event where we will be auctioning off artwork from local artists and all proceeds will support LWALA's charitable efforts in Africa. To learn more about their organization, visit lwala.org

Saturday, May 31st @ Gallery Bar
Cocktail Party 5pm-8pm
Auction ends at 8pm sharp
Open Bar until 10pm

We met Adriana Lima!

2008-04-28T01:01:00.006-04:00

On Saturday at around 3:45pm, Yari spots Adriana Lima arriving at a table across from ours at Serafina on 55th and Broadway. Before leaving, we decided to take a photo with her. I went up to her, apologized for interrupting and told her we were big fans. She then extended her hand and said, "Hi, my name is Adriana" with her thick Brazilian accent. I introduced myself, then Yari introduced herself. Adriana then introduced her friend, Marcos sitting with her. I asked Adriana if we could take a photo, she said "Do you have a camera?", I whipped it out from under my sweater, then she asked Marcos to take the photo.

She stood up from the table and walked over to us, she was so tall, then again we're pretty short. That's when Yari asked if we should stand on a chair, but we don't think she got the joke. We took the photo (I was so nervous I could barely smile properly), then Yari thanked her and Marcos. She nodded saying it was nothing. Then I also thanked her as I was walking away and she nodded again saying it was nothing and winked at me. Overall she was very poised, kinda of serious but generous and accommodating. Needless to say she looked even more beautiful in person than in her photos. It was an unforgettable encounter.

New JPD Blog

2008-03-28T01:36:00.004-04:00

Check out my newly launched design JPD blog at:
http://jessicaperilla.com/blog/

Ellen Goes Gay on SNL Skit

2008-03-05T00:59:00.006-05:00

"Why does everything have to have a label? Why cant I just hug a woman with my legs in friendship?!" -- Ellen Page

Eliminating Homophobia and Discrimination

2008-03-03T00:17:00.002-05:00

Grey's Anatomy star Sara Ramirez has filmed a PSA for GLAAD in Spanish:

A Message from Grey's Anatomy's Sara Ramirez

Jerry O'Connell, TR Knight, Rachel Griffiths, Marlee Matlin, John Amaechi and Martina Navratilova:

Be an Ally & a Friend

Oscar-nominated actress Julianne Moore speaks out on behalf of equality for all. www.GLAAD.org:

Julianne Moore on Equality

Ellen Page SNL Promo Spots

2008-03-01T00:23:00.002-05:00

I really love all the Ellen Page commercials, and have done my best to collect them all here:

Bill Hader, Ellen Page and Andy Samberg Spot 1:

Bill Hader, Ellen Page and Andy Samberg Spot 2:

Andy Samberg, Ellen Page, Kristen Wiig & Wilco, Spot 1: Deserved Oscar for Hot Rod?

Andy Samberg, Ellen Page, Kristen Wiig & Wilco, Spot 2: Texting

Bitch is the New Black!

2008-02-25T21:16:00.001-05:00

How to Use Web 2.0 in the Enterprise

2008-01-13T21:48:00.000-05:00

Check out their blog at http://geekandpoke.typepad.com/geekandpoke/

I Love Rachel Shelley

2007-12-24T19:25:00.000-05:00

Here's one reason why:

The Importance of Dental Care

2007-11-12T23:04:00.001-05:00

An Update on Billy

2007-10-19T00:08:00.000-04:00

For all of you who know Billy, he sent me these wonderful pics of his 8 month son, Leon and his wife Fanny. They're all doing fantastic!

Sharing a Smile with You

2007-10-13T22:48:00.001-04:00

I had to share these videos, they are really funny, and will make you smile, they were originally sent to my by Yari. First one is the evolution of dance, a comedy skit, and the second one is of an adorable little girl singing her heart out to you:

JPD Monsters!

2007-08-18T14:44:00.000-04:00

I've been in an arts and crafts mood lately, and two nights ago, these little guys were born. They were created to be sent out into the world and spread the word about my design studio. They're loud, proud and totally fabulous. Perhaps you'll see them on a park bench one day. Check them out on Flickr.

They were inspired by a book I read called "The Guerilla Art Kit" which I highly recommend, you can buy it here on amazon.

Exclusive: Zack in Guitar Hero Zone

2007-08-12T04:45:00.000-04:00

We went to Angela's Guitar Hero Party last night and Zack really got into the zone. You have to check out this video:

Add to My Profile | More Videos

Devon Sproule at Ace of Clubs!

2007-07-18T22:30:00.000-04:00

View a photo slideshow of Devon's awesome show last night.

She'll also be playing at the Rockwood Musichall this Thursday and in Staten Island on Friday night. She's amazing, you must see her live!

Recent Photos with Friends

2007-06-17T11:37:00.000-04:00

Here are my latest photo sets with friends on Flickr:

Devon Sproule show at Pete's Candy Store

First time at Beer Garden in Astoria

Jenny Hwang's Art Show at Broadway Gallery

Beautiful Detox Facility Mural

2007-05-07T17:20:00.001-04:00

This past weekend several artists got together with me to paint a mural at St. Barnabas Hospital's Detox Facility in the Bronx. We completely transformed their facility with butterflies, flowers and rays of light.

To view photos of our day painting, visit: http://flickr.com/photos/webvixen/sets/72157600188976503/show/

To sign up to this group and participate in future mural paintings, please sign up to my mural meetup group at: http://groupart.meetup.com/12/

Zack's Birthday / Video Game Party!

2007-04-10T00:07:00.001-04:00

I threw Zack's Birthday party at my house on Sunday. We played video games, created our Mii characters and I suprised Zack by drawing his Mii character on his cake! Check out a photo slideshow.

Also visit our new site BEaMii.com!

My Birthday Party '07

2007-02-04T23:10:00.001-05:00

I had a great time this weekend, it was very special to see everyone there, new friends and old. Thank you for celebrating with me!

Edith & Jenny

2007-02-03T00:10:00.000-05:00

I just saw an amazing dance performance with Claire Danes and Ariel Rogoff Flavin. The multimedia performance symbolized their life-long relationship. It was beautiful to watch how intimately their bodies intertwined and broke apart. The last show is this Sunday at 5pm. You can view full details on ps122.org's website.

Claire Danes and Ariel came out afterwards to chat with the audience, so we said hello and got autographs. :)

It's a boy!

2007-02-01T23:41:00.000-05:00

Leon Adam Rivera was born Sunday January 28th at 9:13pm, weighing in at 5lb 6oz. He is the proud baby boy of one of my dearest friends William and Fanny Rivera. He is so precious, my best goes out to you two. You're going to be excellent parents!

Pan's Labyrinth

2007-01-14T16:20:00.000-05:00

This was an excellent movie. I highly recommend it. An exquisite tale about political corruption, courage and the confirmation that real magic does exist.

Ivana Baquero was an amazing actress. Doug Jones was also amazing as Pan, and that "hand eyes" creature, which was really creepy. He gave me ::goosebumps:: Don't miss it!

Photos from Puerto Rico

2007-01-07T02:16:00.001-05:00

I finally finished posting my photos from puerto rico on flickr.

In this photo, several pigeons attack me while one gets cozy on my head. Luckily Yari had a camera handy to capture the special moment.

Canon E18 Error, Solution!

2006-12-26T22:17:00.000-05:00

I was the victim of the dreaded E18 Canon error about two years ago. Canon offered no help, so I put it away in it's box and bought a new camera.

Two days ago I accidently ran into a thread about this error, someone posted a solution! They go by the username: phs01, here is the thread found on cnet's forum.

The best thing is I tried it and it actually worked!!! I was so happy and felt I should keep spreading the love, so I gave the camera to my younger brother. He was ecstatic because he didn't have one. I want everyone to know about this solution, so I'm reposting it below, hopefully everyone looking for a solution will find it:

E18 quick fix
by phs01 - 3/23/05 5:40 AM
In reply to: Canon E18 by lilaruth
I'm sure that every1 looking at this right now would love to be able to do a quick fix for the dreaded E18 error. Well, I have fixed mine several time in less time that it takes to take a picture. So here it is: This error occurs when the lens is "stuck" or not extending "straight". The error can happen in 3 ways: either when the lens wont "come out", or "comes out" and then retracts, or does not retract at all. Mine did all of these at one stage or another.
1) If the lens doesn't extend at all or it extends, but then retracts again, do as follow: Turn the camera off. Place the camera on it's back with the lens facing up and have a look at the "spacing" between the lens and the lens housing. You'll probably notice that the gap is NOT EVEN all the way around. To fix this, simply -VERY GENTLY- press down on the side where the gap is the biggest. You will hear a "click" as it pops back in place. Try powering it back on.
2) If the lens is extended all the time and won't retarct at all, do as follow: Turn the camera off. Take the camera in one hand and with the other gently, in turn, take the two part of the lens and gently move it round in a cuirclar movement. Do so with both sections of the lens. You will once again hear a little "click" as it pops back in place. Power the camera on.
This has worked for me many times and it seems to happen when the camera has been carried around and possible had a little knock. I hope this is of help to someone else.

Zack Attack!

2006-12-01T00:23:00.000-05:00

Zack came by the office today to say hello. He had some amazing ideas, that led to him to become part of my design team. Yay Zack!

Spring Awakening

2006-11-21T20:54:00.000-05:00

Last night I saw Spring Awakening, a rockin' new musical on Broadway. The songs were beautiful, highlight performances were by John Gallagher, Jr. (Moritz) and Lauren Pritchard (Ilse). There was very brief nudity, barely any really. The songs were what made the show. You could definitely feel the teen angst.

If you're interested in purchasing tickets, I have a promotional code so that you can purchase $111.25 seats for only $65. Visit BroadwayOffers.com or call Telecharge.com at 212-947-8844 and enter or mention the following promotional code: SABZZ46 This offer is valid for performances from 11/16/06 through 1/27/07 excluding Saturday evenings. This offer is not valid for 12/10/06; 12/25/06–1/1/07; and 1/12/07–1/14/07. Tickets must be purchased no later than 12/16/06. Enjoy the show!

My New Amazon Store

2006-11-16T11:05:00.000-05:00

I've created my own amazon store so that I can recommend to you my favorite graphic & web design books. These are all books I own and love, and highly recommend to aspiring or seasoned graphic designers, or anyone looking for inspiration, direction or techniques on design and creating websites.

Photos of Angela in NY

2006-10-06T17:23:00.000-04:00

Angela is my best friend from Colombia. We've been friends since 10th grade. She came to NY in May to study English for 5 months and to get to know NY better. These photos reflect all the fun times we had showing her around NY, going to restaurants, and partying. It was an unforgettable summer.

View photos of Angela's trip

Ground Zero from Astoria

2006-09-12T11:17:00.000-04:00

My roommate Angela took this photo from our roof on September 11, 2006.

Midnight Munchies

2006-08-28T01:23:00.000-04:00

See photos of our successful midnight dinner this past weekend. We all slaved in the kitchen for hours to make this meal. Chicken Marsala, coconut shrimp and potato salad, check out behind-the-scene photos of how it was all made!

Graffiti, Barbecue and Dips

2006-08-18T23:22:00.000-04:00

Check out photos from the graffiti exhibit at the Brooklyn Museum.

Check out photos from my recent barbecue with my family.

Also, check out photos from our fondue night at DIPS.

Movie Night!

2006-07-16T21:27:00.000-04:00

We saw Pirates of the Carribean last night. Johnny Depp was brilliant. It was so nice seeing everyone!

From left to right: Johnny, Angela, Mia, Jessica, Zack, Adesina, George, Josean, Yari, Vanessa, Fanny, and Billy.

Ooh la la! Paris photos!

2006-07-08T12:57:00.000-04:00

I have about 4.5 gigs of photos from Paris, so it's going to take me a while to upload them to my flickr account.

You can get a sneak peek though, I uploaded 12 photos, more to come in the upcoming weeks.

View photos from Paris >>

On the left is one of my favorite pieces from the Salvador Dali Museum.

Vacation Photos from Colombia

2006-04-25T22:04:00.000-04:00

I finally posted my photos from my trip to Colombia during Christmas vacation of '04-'05. I have lots of photos with family, of museums and of Colombia's beautiful landscapes. Enjoy the slideshow.

Quotes at Le Sans Souci

2006-04-09T23:55:00.000-04:00

Recently said & overheard while eating at a French restaurant with Yari:

1. YOU'RE A PEPPER! (disapproving, disdainful tone)

2. Can I empty your bucket? (painfully cheery tone)

3. I threw a fry. (a matter of fact tone)

4. It's like, gummy, but then it got wet... so it got mushy. (the joys of eating mushrooms)

5. Actually I didn't flick it, I flung the fry. (fling by frying account)

It helps to have had two glasses of Chardonnay when reading these.

Mini-Masterpiece

2006-03-26T21:53:00.000-05:00

I loved this drawing so much that I had to share it with everyone. My girlfriend titled it Sunday Afternoon. I just fell in love with it, the colors, the strokes, the serenity on the character's face and her poise as she journals away... the details really give you a sense of intimacy. I hope you all enjoy it is much as I did. To view a larger version of it, visit her blog at yaritsa.com.

Teen Health Center Mural

2006-02-18T00:51:00.000-05:00

I've been painting a mural at the Union Community Health Center in the bronx for the past month. It's not finished yet, so I'm only publishing a preview pic. I still have two more characters to go, so I'll probably be done by mid March. Please visit then for pics of the full mural.

My Birthday Celebration

2006-02-05T03:45:00.000-05:00

Thanks to those who came out for my birthday, I really enjoyed spending time with you guys. Check out all the pictures on my flickr page and stay tuned for lots of great pics from the after party.

By Popular Demand

2006-01-29T12:21:00.000-05:00

I know a bunch of you have been wondering what to get me for my birthday, so I've updated my Amazon wish list. Of course, I'm not saying you need to get me anything, it's just there for those of you that want to but need guidance.
Note: Make sure to check the "purchased" status of the product, in case someone already purchased it.

What Life May Bring

2006-01-14T17:26:00.000-05:00

Left to right: Alex, Dez, Yaritsa, Johnny, Me and Billy.

Here we are after Dez's first off-broadway play, it was a huge success. We were all very proud of her.
To see more of Desi's work and upcoming plays visit adesina.com

iPod Subway Maps

2005-10-04T03:16:00.000-04:00

How cool are these! I must download them all... You never know when you'll find yourself in Paris in need of a subway map...
http://ipodsubwaymaps.com/download.php

When You Were Younger

2005-09-20T06:06:00.000-04:00

This evening someone had some interesting words for me. While at my client's show, I was introduced to her brother with whom I sat with for the rest of the evening. He had a very positive disposition and was eager to chat about work & art. We started chatting about our work as graphic designers, how we focus too much of our energy on working but don't take the time to indulge in the creative activities that led us to where we are today.

Simple things that made us happy when we were younger, like drawing, sculpting and making flip books... These activities are what inspired us to become designers, illustrators, sculptors, animators... but for some reason we don't make time for them anymore. It is so easy to forget that they are the source for who we are today. That is why it is important that we continuously revisit those activities. We must carry them into adulthood in order to keep our creative spirit going, otherwise we'll burn out.

Go Google Yourself

2005-08-09T21:10:00.000-04:00

I just had to share this with everyone, I found it in the Boston Phoenix this past weekend. It made me laugh because it's so true, I'm always obsessively googling myself to make sure I come up. I also love googling other people, like friends, designers, clients, etc. but I'm always suprised when I find that there are no traces of them online. My "Reality Check" is that not everyone has an e-fingerprint.

Promoting Your Portfolio

2005-06-12T23:24:00.000-04:00

As a freelance designer who has to rely on self promotion to get work, I've discovered that posting your portfolio on free listing sites really makes a difference.

Just this past week I've received three design requests referred by FreelanceDesigners.com. I get a minimum of two requests a month, sometimes as many as six. Of course these are more projects than I can handle, but it's nice to know I have options.

Below is a listing of all the sites that have proven to get me referrals. Sometimes you have to wait a couple of hours or days before you can be posted. They will ask you to post a link on your site back to theirs, so make sure to setup that page before you submit your site. If you are not sure how to set up that page, you can view my page for reference.

Recommended Free Listing Websites:
FreelanceDesigners.com
TopDesignFirms.com
MarketingTool.com
DesignFirms.org
GoodNoodles.com
CreativeHotList.com
SnapLance.com
BlueGeckoNetwork.com

Make sure the url of the page you setup to place their links doesn't change, because they check that page regularly to make sure their link is still there, if it's not they will remove your listing.

My last tip is that you provide on your site an easy way for people to request work. I recommend providing two options: a quick online form and your email. This way they can contact you however they are more comfortable.

Goodluck and Happy Listings.

Freelancing Dilemmas

2004-11-29T04:23:00.000-05:00

I recently went to a presentation at SVA about starting your own business, and the speaker Katherine Crowley said something that really hit me. She pointed out that a freelancer will always be their own their toughest boss. It made all of us in the audience laugh because we knew it was true. We are always denying ourselves of vacations, never breaking for lunch until our work is perfected or finished and of course nothing is ever good enough.

She mentioned how ironic "freelancing" was because ideally we do it because we want to have more freedom. But instead we end up working more than we should, like from 9am-10pm, or we'll work on holidays, and so on. Plus when you work from home (like I do 40% of the time) that means you'll be at work even while you're in the shower, when you're cooking, right up until you to go bed. The key is to set boundaries, but I always find this extremely hard to do since 85% of my at home time is spent doing work and about 70% of my outside time is also spent doing work.

Katherine, who's been in business for over 15 yrs, also mentioned that people who work for themselves end up with more chronic illnesses than people that work for someone else. I can attest to that, since my back and wrist are the worst they've ever been and the quality of my eyesight has been steadily decreasing.

If you want to check out Katherine Crowley, her site is called Small Business Strategy. I was really grateful for her presentation because it put a lot of things about freelancing and business in perspective for me.

Related Articles:
12.15.04 - "Why Freelance?" - Creative Latitudes