While this intensely awkward image won’t do Ivy Lam’s efforts any justice, I had to use it as an opportunity to plug her. Typically when I have someone doing my hair + makeup at a shoot I don’t have the most pleasant of experiences (somehow  my quirks translate into “let’s give this tall asian chik some whack green make up and freaky hair to call it a day”). There’s reason to my deeming Ivy impeccable – she does hair, make up, and knows what she’s doing. A deep braid swept from my right crown to lower left into flowing hair, finished with smokey eye make up and a strong hot pink lip (it was for a Scion photoshoot, you’ll know what I mean when you see the actual photos).

Sending my love to Ivy’s way, visit her works at www.ivylammakeup.com.

The Ghost in the Machine is right – my beloved and well preferred method of audio when I was pre-teen has been resurfacing countless times in the last several weeks (and has been something I’ve been eyeing for a video project). Cool Hunter looped me in on this amazing art created by iri5. Inspired by rockstars and the odd kung fu, it’s a lovely array of media art. Link here for the full set.

A fanatic and advocate for graduate art (nothing like fresh talent), I did some moseying over to Yorkville to the Drabinsky Gallery, a two level wonder filled to the brim with photography and video (literally, every tip and turn of the gallery held incredible pieces). A backdrop?

This student-driven exhibition introduces an exciting group of talented emerging artists from the prestigious photography program of the Ontario College of Art & Design. This exhibition showcases a variety of photographic perspectives from the thesis work of these promising recent graduates.
Including work by:

 

Heather Appleby, Nasrin Arghavani Fard, Olivia Cataford, Sam Catalfamo, Caitlin Cox, Dianne Davis, Sherri Dawson, Alex Illich, Jeffrey Kum, Meryl McMaster, Amanda Mendham, Tue-Si Nguyen, Elena Prospero, Darren Rigo, Niki Ross, Danielle Schon, Logan Shishido, Salina Stange, Kate Subak, Brandon Titaro, Jesse Todd, Stella Uhm, Victoria Vitasek

 

Curated by Danielle Schön and Brandon Titaro

Nothing quite like the feeling of marveling at a work of art, and wondering what the photographer had done to accomplish the final product. The favourite? Several horizontal-inclined images with individuals overlaid on top of a homey backdrop (second image in thumbnails). A retro look with a fresh aesthetic. Did anyone else check out the OCAD show?

The Power Plant is something that I hold plenty near and dear to my heart – primarily due to the abundance of nostalgia that I’m overcome with when I step foot inside (back in the day when I had taken Contemporary Arts and Technologies as a summer school credit. Amazing).

The outdoor imagery of individuals created solely through newspapers was one to supply with a double take. The concept? How press, news, and gossip has managed to manifest itself into the creation of an individual identity.

“The 50 people in the photograph lack individuality, but as a group form a powerful entity. Breuning’s work suggests a new global personality is being created, but leaves it up to the viewer to decide if this is good or bad news.”

All the while when gazing at the piece, I had to nod internally in agreement. We’re consumed by news, rather than selectively consuming and scrutinizing the content that we surround ourselves with.

Any thoughts?

Love having international pitches come through the email – nothing like being globally aware (if you went to school with me you’ll know what I’m alluding to. Nerdo.)

CIPHER presents BIG CITY BRIGHT LIGHTS, an initiative featuring 10 influential Hong Kong musical artists. In better words:

We are launching a new initiative with 10 influential Hong Kong artists who have produced some music for a CIPHER mixtape. The focus for this project is to express Hong Kong culture in a global context; the contrast, the inspiration and the diversity that exists in this dynamic city.

Definitely names to watch – CIPHER has consistently sent over some amazing caps of shoes in the past. Can someone get me to Asia, quick?!

There’s something astoundingly pleasant about briskly strolling the lanes within the Distillery District. Better yet, doing it with purpose – the end destination being Sheridan Applied Arts’ Photo display at 55 Mill Street (Arta Gallery). Aside from mistakenly wedding crashing (nothing like an obtuse venture into a near-matrimonial union).

Despite the faulty visit, I was swept away by the beautiful imagery that was produced by the young talent that resides within Sheridan College (always without fail). They say that the display defies categorization – and I’m more than willing to embrace said descriptor. Though surprisingly slanted towards fashion, I more than enjoyed the array of product, still life, and classically cool photos. Most lovely – a pleasure to marvel.

> pictured above is Désiré Bara-Assi’s collection “Inside Walks Out”. My absolute favourite.

I’ve been slow to post lately – apologies. Things are finally settling down, my life is not as much in a disarray, and I’m going to be in Toronto for the next little while (not that I want to anyone to be under the guise of me being some sort of jetsetter. I’m just sick of airplanes right now. But ask me in a week and I’ll have changed my mind). On the topic of Toronto – here’s more local talent. Mass Exodus is a favourite each year in showing new up and coming designers from the Ryerson Fashion Design program (from which many a famed designer has hailed from). Some astounding textures, cuts, dresses, pieces, leathers, performances, A/V and styling was to be engrossed in on April 8th. I’m absolutely floored at the talent and the organization of the event. The event was complete with a performance from Fritz Helder and the Phantoms (who I’ll be seeing next week at the after-Hot-Chip-XX-concert, XX DJ Set – which you can attend too, RSVP here).

Congratulations to the graduating class of 2010 (apologies – my photos just don’t do it justice. I have a few images credited to Arthur Mola which are intensely good).

Orange. Angela Chen is an up and coming designer who hails from a diverse background – originally from Taiwan, to the West Coast of Canada (Vancouver), and New York for the Parsons School of Design. She’s a vibrant soul and down to earth, bursting with energy and sass. When I arrived at Lotus Leaf Communications’ office, I was welcomed by the rush of media, models, and stunning clothes as my surroundings. Funny enough, I was then instantly ushered into the back office whilst filming of a segment for LGFW, and bump into a long-time must meet, Sally Han of Psalms 91:1 Accessories. Angela’s collection is stunning, affordable, wearable, and something I’m yearning to see again. Read the Q&A after the jump.

1. Why “Orange”?
   It wasn’t necessarily because of the fruit or the colour, but two other reasons. People often call me Ange, which isn’t too far off of Orange. When my boyfriend (who’s a graphic designer) did the branding for my line, it ended up being so fitting.
2. West Coast to East Coast – what was your experience migrating?
   I was born in Taiwan, moved to Vancouver, then went to New York City for seven years for school. Every place has its place – they all stay in me and slowly come out. I was doing a lot of things in between – right when I came out of school I actually worked at a sweater licensing company that did work for brands like Forever 21, Michael Kors.

   The one thing that really differs for me are the seasons and styles. This season it’s about the hard sophisticated touch of New York mixed with the comfy and stylish West Coast. NYC is all about the energy, people, environment, old Hollywood. Vancouver? It’s about relaxing. That’s life – the divide.

3. What was your Parsons Experience like?
   Vigorous. I remember the first thing that a professor had said to us when I started there was “I’m here to weed out the weak – if you can’t make it, go and become a real estate agent”. Being there for school really taught me to learn what I liked and didn’t like, and be decisive as a designer.
4. Celebrity Clientele – what do you think of your roster?
   It’s so amazingly flattering – I love how they come across the brand. It’s a huge step. We send lookbooks to their stylists and are lucky enough to be picked out of a line.
5. 3 Years into your line, where do you think it’s taken you?
   It’s taught me a great deal about everything to do with running a business and a clothing line. You do PR, sales, design, and people want to put you to work. I’m not rushing with it! The biggest challenge has really been figuring out everything on my own – manufacturer relationships, fabrics, buyers, and more.
6. What does the Orange girl look like?
   The Orange girl can look like anyone – there’s really and truly something for everyone. And they’re at accessible price points.
7. What are your thoughts on showing in LG Fashion Week?
   There are so many things that happen during LG Fashion Week! I didn’t expect to have so many interviews which is a fantastic thing – I’ve had some huge buzz thanks to my amazing PR girl [note that Julia of Lotus Leaf Communications has entered the room]

   How do you know one another?

   We met three weeks ago and it’s been non-stop! We’re practically soul sisters. We picked some great music for the show, things that really highlighted the pieces and the emotions. Hope you like it!

8. Where to next?
   I’m actually showing in Shanghai right after this! It’s one week and they have some higher end stores. Really looking forward to going to Asia.

> images from orangenyc.com

Darkhorse Espresso Bar on Queen and Spadina is buzzing on a Saturday afternoon as I scurry through the doors to be met by a quirky girl with one furry earring dangling from her right lobe. Instantly I knew that I was looking at Tatomme Flanagan, finalist in the AXE Summer Gig Contest. 5 girls and 5 boys are pitted against one another in online challenges to win what they’ve referred to as the “Ridiculously, Ridiculously Good Summer Gig” – yes, complete with shades in the typography. It’s 60 days when you’re young and single, getting paid $10,000 to be a Consumer Consultant for your favourite spray deodorant (one girl and one guy will be chosen). After ordering some of the finest coffee in the city, we perch down on a door-based wooden table and get down to a conversation about how she got to finalist stage.

1. Tell me about Peachland.

   Ah, Peachland, BC. It’s near a place called Okanagan Valley – or rather, “The Valley”. Peachland was a small residential town, with about 5,000 people. It was a fun time, I went to private school for the first little bit, it definitely helps form who you are. It was all complete with amazing teachers and old friends. I remember spending a lot of time in malls. The town (not a city!) died everyday at 5pm, so you definitely had to be creative in entertaining yourself. It was amazing in the summer.

 

2. Why are you a pyro, according to your AXE profile?

   Hm, good question. I’m not too too sure – I love cooking and apparently I burn things, which makes me some sort of pyro? Apparently Jamie Oliver’s also my main manpan.

 

3. Why do you love Jamie Oliver?

   What’s not to love? His accent’s adorable, he’s down to earth, travels for cultural experiences, makes cooking simple. Manpan it is.

 

4. What does Campus Couture mean to you? (sidenote: Tatomme was featured on College Candy in March)

   My day-to-day style really changes, I love baggy clothes and jeans and a tshirt. I love inventing things – going to outdoor markets, getting materials, creating things like this one-earring thing I’m wearing today (nothing like the fishing section for jewelry materials). I love vintage, and I love Ossington.

 

5. From Toronto-to-Toronto, what do you think this gig means for you?

   The living situation will definitely change – I can’t say no to a swank pad. I’m currently living with roomies. The job is definitely going to be something new to take on. I’m currently working in the Distillery District (which I sometimes take for granted, the place is beautiful!). I applied for the gig at the end of last year because a friend had thought I was perfect for the role, and heard back in January. Since then I’ve been running around to win votes and the hearts of AXE fans!

 

6. How are you preparing yourself for this new role, should you get it?

   Definitely going into it with an open mind, but I’m running into it a bit blind. I love change though – I get bored with my surroundings easily. I’m studying journalism right now, but would love to try my hand at marketing. I adore broadcast journalism – it’s not too far of a stretch!

 

7. This gig is also about blogging and documenting your personal life. Tell me how do you plan on finding dates?

   I’m not sure if I’m getting set up on dates, but I’ll definitely have to start scoping out some cute ones and get cracking on that. A fine date would be going out for a light summer patio day, complete with a Guiness to start and a light beer like Mill St. Tankhouse. Mm.

 

8. What’s your take on AXE?
   I love their marketing – it’s pretty hilarious and catchy. AXE is all about youth – I think I fit right in. I’ve got some good competition in this contest, I’ve met a few of the other folks and we’re all really keen on it.

 

9. You blog! About food. Tell me about it.
   I’m a vegetarian – born and raised. I like writing about recipes, how I experiment with food on a student budget. My favourites are rice bowls and plenty of leafy greens. The ideal boy (meat lover or not) would join me for a nice veggie dinner.

You’ve only got until MARCH 31ST to vote for Tatomme here: http://www.axesummergig.ca/?q=node/9.

Suddenly a fan? Follow her Twitter: http://www.twitter.com/tatomme, or check her blog here: http://tatomme.blogspot.com/. Why wouldn’t you be? The girl will pose with brooms for a good photo (hearts – thanks Tatomme for being a great sport. Merci to Lauren for the set up *wink.

A little more amazing from JWu. Loammi Goetghebeur (Major Paris). Filmed by Justin Wu (www.jwuphoto.com). Stylist: Jennifer Clemson. Hair: Michael Marenco (Toni&Guy). Caesars – Jerk it Out.