Greening up Detroit

After being inspired by "Love Each One", I took some initiative and wandered deep into the 'ruins' of Detroit. Passing many an abandoned school or boarded up apartment complex, holes so big you could drive a car through them, and dilapidated Victorian houses, I came to my destination. It took a few tries and some wandering about in areas I wouldn't usually recommend, but once I got to the CFA building I was greeted with a blossoming garden and the promise of new life.

Stressful times and stressed friends has been pressuring my urge to do something productive and helpful. The farm turned out to be much larger than I expected, with fewer workers than I expected as well. The work day was comfortable and the people were welcoming. I spent the day getting exercise by tilling the land, preparing it for planting flowers. The day as a whole was refreshing, enjoyable, and something I'm eager to attend again.

Below are some snapshots I took towards the end of the workday.

Some of the workers were kind enough to take my picture.

Many cages were filled with new born baby bunnies, too cute!

Just like a rural farm, goats needed to be milked.

A beautiful horse of a breed unknown to me wandered the back fenced in area.

The local farm cat was very loving, and eager for pets.

They even had a pond for geese and ducks.

Many of the young goats were eager to great me at the fence.

The majority of my fellow volunteers, the gal in the middle with the hat is the coordinator.

The old school architecture juxtaposed by the lovely red barn. Notice the copper tops on the school.

The elderly gentleman actually rode the horse for awhile. At sunset it made for a stunning image.

Update from the Zoo!

Went to the zoo this past Wednesday and had a blast! It's refreshing to get outside and draw without a deadline. The sun was blistering and the shade was scarce, but I had good friends and talented artists to keep me company. Upon returning home I began working more on my film, I'm beginning to fill out and tie down a lot of my animation. As a whole it seems like a lot of work, but the filling and tie down phase is always the most relaxing for me. On top of this my loans have been approved, and now I simply have to wait until I can register for the classes I plan to take this summer. After a stressful year at CCS some relaxation is very welcome.

Below: Zoo Doodles!

To Doug Straton

In case you're taking a moment to browse my blog, I just wanted to say what a great pleasure it was getting to meet you. Your love of art and support of not only myself but both Mel and Derek is a much appreciated helping hand. I enjoyed describing the animation process with you, as well as introducing you to my friends, teachers, and parents. You'll be happy to know that I am picking up right where I left off only a week ago, on schedule to complete my film.

From left to right: Brian Stannard(my father), Me, Doug Straton, Scott Bogoniewski.

Two very happy Entertainment Arts Seniors.

All of us grouped together for a photograph at the senior show.

As you know, Mel, Derek, and I are all very grateful for your support and thank you for showing an interest in our art. I've got the meeting jotted down in my schedule and can't wait to speak with you again. Best a luck!

CCS 2010 Senior Show

Even till it's last days CCS finds ways to deprive me of sleep, though for good cause. This Friday I will be attending a CCS gallery show to be held in the Tubman building. All the seniors will be posting work to be sold and viewed by the public. My own gallery consists of ten pieces, eight of them for sale. Among the artists showing off their work is my good friend, roomie, and all around amazing artist Mel Miller, who won the runner up place for senior select and with it a massive wall space to showcase her work.

The biggest relief to come of this is the knowledge that after this I have a good month before I have to start worrying about school again. I've given CCS four good years, but as good as they may have been I will be glad to move on.

Best a luck

Straton Scholarship

For what seemed like a shot in the dark, I and two others have been awarded funds from the Straton foundation. My good friend and roommate, (and talented artist to boot) Mel Miller was awarded first place, and I can't think of a more deserving artist than her. While battling current jobs, preparing for future ones, liberal arts, and a senior film, she was still able to produce half of a 6 minute film to full color and composite! If that's not a feet I don't know what is.

I am honored to be awarded this funding, and I thank the Straton Foundation for helping me further my artistic career.

To show that I'm not letting it go to waist, here is my latest demo reel for the year, comprised entirely of shots from my WIP film "My Dad the Giant."

Sketchbook Fun

With animation going along as it is, I sometimes get tired of drawing Emilio for the thousandth time, so here's some sketchbook images of a very different nature.

Little Fun!

For any animation updates, please visit my production blog. Mydadthegiant.blogspot.com

With all this animation going on, I felt I needed to do some fun doodles to loosen up and relax. So without further adieu let me present the Gears Squad!



The Team!

Jay Norm (the Brawler): Armed with a gnasher shotgun, Jay takes his fights up close and personal. Often the first met on the battlefield, he waists little time in assaulting the enemy. Snipers may have a hard time hitting his armored frame as it ducks and weaves amongst the cover, steadily inching forward. His assaults can however be halted with well launched grenades.

Niles (Soldier/Sniper): Niles Bontrager fills the exact opposite position to Jay. His well calculated attacks are often fought at long range. Close range battles can offset his usual calm demeanor and he will be quick to distance himself from his enemies. Though not the quickest at reflexes, his ammo stocks keep him well prepared, and if he sights you early chances are he will be keeping an eye on you during the entire assault. Staying stationary against him is a recipe for death and you'll soon find your head separated from your neck via a well placed sniper shot.
Patrick (Scout/Demolitions): Patrick (dat's me!), doesn't fill any particular niche in the squad other than to disorient opponents. Relying on quick calculations and psychological warfare, Patrick employs a series of grenade volleys and quick sporadic movements. Always the team player, if you are spotted by Patrick bet on the rest of his team knowing where you are. Quick to learn opponents comfort zones, never rely on one strategy alone when dealing with him as he will likely try to turn your own plans against you. Catching him off guard or dealing with another enemy is the best strategy as his multitasking isn't up to par with the rest of the squad.

Mel(Team Spirit): The newest addition to the team, Mel has little experience but a lot of pep. Her best contribution is off the field, keeping Niles well fed and encouraging him with smooches and hugs. It's an odd strategy, but one that seems very effective. Her first encounter with Patrick left him without a torso, compliments of her shotgun.
The Kids (Cayla and Jake): Joining the team by force, Cayla demands authority and munchies, while Jake is happy enough not to be shot. Her hunger for power has injured many team mates, and left Niles with a well serrated groin. In battle they combine forces to create a force that is very awkward to watch. Lacking the evolutionary trait of dexterous thumbs, they offer up distraction at best. Leaping up onto their squad-mates laps often causes sporatic movements and shows of flail that more often than not drops the enemies guard.

Some more Gears fun!

All drawn after hours in Senior Studio to the laughter of one Mel Miller.