Oh My BLOG!

Happy New Year! 2012

2012-01-03T15:30:00.004+03:00

My New Creative Home!

2011-12-20T10:16:00.002+03:00

I am now officially a GREY person :D This is so far, the BEST office I have been, it's an 'ALL-OUT' creative environment and I am loving every second of it! Have a GREYt Day!

2011-12-19T10:00:00.000+03:00

2011-12-18T13:10:00.002+03:00

2011-12-18T13:10:00.001+03:00

2011-12-18T13:08:00.000+03:00

2011-12-18T13:07:00.000+03:00

2011-12-18T13:05:00.000+03:00

Back to Blogging

2011-12-11T12:04:00.001+03:00

OK, it's been such a very loooooooooooong time since my last blog, I thought I'd never see the day that I'm back to blogging, well, Here I am! I'm Baaacckk!

Broadway Musical

2011-08-25T18:27:00.001+03:00

My 10 year old daughter Aliyah sings her version of On My Own from the broadway musical les miserables. It was her first attempt on the material and no voice coaching, we were just having fun at home with the karaoke. This is raw talent and she has a great potential provided with proper professional training, in the meantime, enjoy the video and mind the audio. Will post a studio quality video soon!

THOR - Trailer 2

2011-04-30T20:00:00.001+03:00

I am soo seeing this movie in a few days!!!!

Little Thor

2011-04-30T19:50:00.002+03:00

Remember the famous 'Little Darth Vader' Superbowl spot? Here's what MARVEL has in response, wait till the ending part! :D

Piracy

2011-04-19T09:59:00.003+03:00

Amazing works by TBWA, Italy for their Piracy Posters for a show for culture magazine First Floor Under.

Advertising Agency: TBWA\Italy
Creative Director: Francesco Guerrera, Nicola Lampugnani
Art Director: Moreno De Turco
Copywriter: Mirco Pagano
Photographer: FM Photographers
Published: March 2011

The Royal Wedding - Dance :)

2011-04-19T09:25:00.003+03:00

T-Mobile's latest spot by Saatchi London ends with a "One's Life is for Sharing" line, is totally amusing and a nice additions and tweaking from the original JK Wedding video

CREATIVE DIRECTOR AND COPYWRITER: Paul Silburn

ART DIRECTOR: Lovisa Almgren-Falken

AGENCY PRODUCER: James Faupel.

DIRECTOR: Chris Palmer / Gorgeous, London

PRODUCER: Michaela Johnson

EDITOR: Paul Watts, The Quarry, London

POST-PRODUCTION: The Mill, London

AUDIO POST-PRODUCTION: Grand Central Studios

Soldier or Softy?

2011-04-17T09:49:00.002+03:00

Eff! This is really a classic! What you'd call the dude in uniform? How about the lady with the back pack? I wonder how'd he do it in the field? lol

AIS International Day 2011

2011-03-26T17:03:00.003+03:00

Fun-filled event at the AIS last Thursday! The International Day 2011 was held at the school grounds, this year we came loaded, the booth was amazingly done, Thanks to Jersey and Paok for their awesome graphics designs, to tita Grace for her Balloon artworks, DJ Lito for the DJ setup (yeah-boiie! Turntables and a scratch mixer!) We also have a new member in the team, Ms Joanne and Family who brought in some Pinoy food! Of course, Steve and Sonia Mathews were there with a bunch of delicious Filipino dishes, YUM! Pinky cooked some 150 pieces of Lumpiang Shanghai, we had like tons of Choc-Nuts and Boy Bawang! Laarni with friend brought not only her specialty- But her new baby- Shamlan :) We all had fun, It was a Blast!

ANNIE the Musical

2011-03-19T15:43:00.005+03:00

Aliyah's ANNIE show is finally over, It was a great play, the cast were amazing and they have played it perfectly! Kudos to the people behind the musical, It was a success! Great Job!

25 Things To Do In The Philippines!

2011-03-14T10:01:00.005+03:00

… before fantasizing about exploring other countries

1. Go white water rafting in Cagayan de Oro.

2. Visit Batanes.

3. See Mt. Mayon up close.

4. Swim with the whale sharks in Donsol.

5. Climb Mt. Pulag and be awed by its sea of clouds.

6. Dive, swim and explore Palawan’s underground river.

7. Hike and let the view of Mt. Pinatubo crater take your breath away.

8. Party in your bikini in Boracay.

9. Surf’s up! Choose your wave—La Union, Zambales or Real, Quezon.

10. Missed out on the pristine beauty of Boracay 15 years ago? Visit Malapascua, Cebu.

11. Dive and see the rich marine life of Anilao, Batangas.

12. Travel back in time—go to Vigan.

13. Let Bohol wow you with its many offerings—the Chocolate Hills, the tarsier, the Loboc River Cruise, old churches and the beach.

14. Go high! Drive to the Mountain Province of Sagada. Check out the caves, the hanging coffins and enjoy the laidback lifestyle.

15. Grab a Viaje del Sol map, visit Ugu Binyan’s pottery studio, eat at Kusina Salud and unwind at Casa San Pablo.

16. Spend an entire week up north. Take a road trip from Manila to Vigan, Ilocos, Cagayan Valley, Aparri and Isabela!

17. Try wakeboarding in Camsur.

18. Check out Malate, Old Manila and all their secret spots.

19. There are many reasons to love Davao. Kublai’s artworks, its proximity to the beach, the tasty pastil and juicy suha. And did I mention that it’s a smoke-free city?

20. Spend a weekend roughing it in Anawangin and Capones in Zambales.

21. Check out our colorful fiestas and document them with your camera. Ati-atihan, Dinagyang, Masskara, Sinulog, Higantes, Panagbenga and more.

22. Pick your own strawberries at the Strawberry Fields in La Trinidad, Benguet.

23. Go to Pampanga for sisig.

24. If it’s too hot in Manila, grab a few friends and take a quick trip to Tagaytay.

25. Enjoy a food trip in Iloilo. You’ll never go hungry in this city.

By Jill Lejano
Philippine Daily Inquirer

Aliyah is Annie!

2011-03-10T12:50:00.002+03:00

Excited to see the show! The American International School Kuwait will be presenting their version of the famous musical, "ANNIE" on the 16th, 17th & 18th of March at 7:00pm at the AIS Auditorium, Starring of course, my little angel ALIYAH!

What we do not know about Johnny

2011-03-03T00:54:00.003+03:00

We all love Johnny Walker, now here's something for us that we might not be aware of, the Man who walked around the world, the Farmer's son, the Whiskey, the Brand Name - The Icon. A brilliant spot!

Goodbye, Galliano!

2011-03-02T14:00:00.005+03:00

Christian Dior sacked its star designer, John Galliano after he got wasted and started hurling some anti-semitic abuse at people in a bar in Paris.

Update: Le Parisien reports that Galliano will be tried in criminal court for "public insults made against individuals based on their origin or their religious affiliation...made against three victims." He could be in court during the second trimester of the year and faces 6 months in prison and a fine of 22,500 euros ($31,200).

Previously: John Galliano released a statement on Wednesday regarding the events that began with his arrest last week and ended with his firing from Dior on Tuesday. According to WWD, the designer's words were sent out by the law firm Harbottle & Lewis. He makes no mention of his "I love Hitler" rant. He is said to be currently en route to rehab to treat alcohol problems.

The full text, as it appears on WSJ.com:

Since the events of last Thursday evening I have not been able to make any public comment on what took place based upon advice from my French lawyer. However, given the continuing delays at the French Prosecutor's Office I should make my position clear.

I completely deny the claims made against me and have fully co-operated with the police investigation.

A number of independent witnesses have given evidence and have told the police that I was subjected to verbal harassment and an unprovoked assault when an individual tried to hit me with a chair having taken violent exception to my look and my clothing. For these reasons I have commenced proceedings for defamation and the threats made against me.

However, I fully accept that the accusations made against me have greatly shocked and upset people.

I must take responsibility for the circumstances in which I found myself and for allowing myself to be seen to be behaving in the worst possible light.

Story continues below

I only have myself to blame and I know that I must face up to my own failures and that I must work hard to gain people's understanding and compassion. To start this process I am seeking help and all I can hope for in time is to address the personal failure which led to these circumstances and try and earn people's forgiveness.

I have fought my entire life against prejudice, intolerance and discrimination, having been subjected to it myself. In all my work my inspiration has been to unite people of every race, creed, religion and sexuality by celebrating their cultural and ethnic diversity through fashion. That remains my guiding light.

Anti-semitism and racism have no part in our society. I unreservedly apologise for my behaviour in causing any offence.

Air Balloon Fiesta, Pampanga, Philippines

2011-03-01T12:36:00.003+03:00

Here are some snaps from the Annual Philippine Air Balloon Fiesta being held in Pampanga! Thanks, Steve!

Kuwait National & Liberation Day 50/20

2011-03-01T12:30:00.002+03:00

Amazing fireworks display at the Kuwait Towers and the seaside last week for the National and Liberation day celebration, lasted for like more than 30 minutes! Unfortunately, we weren't there :( The traffic and the crowd was enormous! Thanks to some peeps who caught the spectacular event on tape!

Brilliant Ambient by Mastercard

2011-02-16T08:30:00.003+03:00

What are the things you would do for love? There are sooo many.. All are special in their own way, just like this Mastercard Ambient: Priceless!

Who Let The DOGS Out?! Meet the Philippines Football Team- AZKALS

2011-02-09T16:33:00.003+03:00

The Philippines players Alexander Borromeo (#11), James Younghusband (#7), Ian Araneta (#23), goalkeeper Neil Etheridge (#1), Robert Gier (#2), Anton Del Rosario (#4), Roel Gener (#6), Philip Younghusband (#10), Christoper Greatwich (#18), Ray Jonsson (#27), Jason De Jong (#17). Photo credit: ADEK BERRY/AFP/Getty Images

They caught our fancy and sparked a resurgence of football in the Philippines. In a country that reveres basketball, boxing, and billiards, the “beautiful game” suddenly appeared in the hearts and minds of Filipinos. How did the Azkals pull this off? Here are 6 reasons why Filipinos, if not football fans all over the world, love the Azkals.

1. They were a storybook Cinderella team.

Before their shocking victory over Vietnam, few people have even heard of the Azkals. We probably didn’t even know we had entered in the ASEAN Football Championship, let alone that we had fought three-time champion Singapore to a 1-1 draw courtesy of a last-minute goal by Chris Greatwich. And then suddenly, like the clueless Prince after glancing at the beautiful Cinderalla, we asked ourselves: Who are they and what haven’t we heard about them?

2. They had a distinctively Filipino name

They weren’t called “Eagles” or “Booters” or whatever other Western moniker. They had a name that was endearingly familiar to the true-blooded Filipino. My hats off to whoever coined the name “Azkals”. I understand that the original team name was supposed to be Calle Azul (or Blue Street), which then evolved to Azul Calle and then Az Cal. Someone then suggested to refer it as Azkal as in “asong kalye” or street dog. The asong kalye is neglected, ignored, and left to fend for itself, yet it is a tough, resilient, ferocious survivor. “Azkal” was a name that aptly captured the state of the Philippines football team.

3. They had a villain

Every hero needs a villain. They say that a villain defines the hero. The more hateful the villain the better. And, ironically, this villain was not an opposing team but our very own Philippine Football Federation president Jose Mari Martinez, removed from office on accusations of “falsification of public documents, the unauthorized disbursement of funds, and the failure to return the missing funds before a set deadline.” Nothing probably caused so much ire and hatred than when Martinez readily surrendered the home-field advantage without even a plea. Why he even disregarded a neutral playing ground is beyond me. Whenever I think of Mari Martinez I have the image of a conniving Dick Dastardly character, twirling his mustache, and conjuring up schemes to derail the progress of the Philippine football team. If ever there is a fitting postscript to this drama, it would be a thorough government investigation of Mari Martinez.

4. They were the underdogs.

So here were the Azkals, lacking in support, their home-field advantage squandered, entering a stadium filled with 80,000 football-rabid Indonesians, facing a team that had scored 13 goals in the group elimination stage. Deep in our hearts we knew that it would be a tough battle with the odds against us, but, as always, everybody loves the underdog.

5. They showed heart and soul.

And they never gave up. They gave the Indonesians a run for their money. I’m not sure if I read the body-language correctly, but the coach for the Indonesian team looked worried and tense. And the Azkals could have pulled it off. They fought tooth and nail. . But they had chances to score. The Indonesians never took them for granted. The Azkals were elbowed and jostled and pushed to the ground. The Indonesians didn’t play restrained kid-gloved football—they came bearing their teeth. And the Azkals showed their fangs as well.

6. They looked good.

The Azkals, despite their names, did not look like ragged street urchins. A number of them had movie star, Bench-model looks. And swarms of giggly, screeching fans scampered to have their pictures taken with them, even the Indonesian football fans who, just a few days ago, where screaming obscenities at them.

(Source: Solo's Log)

Volkswagen Returns to the Super Bowl with Two Spots

2011-02-07T19:41:00.003+03:00

Including cars and Star Wars, Volkswagen’s Super Bowl commercial for the new Passat is relevant to our interests. Well, done, ad guys.

The 30-second ad features the cutest little munchkin of a Darth Vader honing his dark side, attempting to use the force on such things as the family dog, a sandwich, and finally a 2012 Volkswagen Passat, all with the "Imperial March" as a backing track.

The Super Bowl ads were created by Volkswagen’s creative Agency of Record Deutsch LA and follow the 2010 Punch Dub Super Bowl spot, which starred superstar musician Stevie Wonder and comedian Tracy Morgan.

New Year's 2010

2011-01-05T13:50:00.003+03:00

Streets were packed from the afternoon till the clock hits twelve, Zayed road is overwhelmed with cars of tourists and residents rushing for a perfect spot of the Burj Khalifa towers, the countdown was amazing, awesome fireworks display (videos to follow), it was the tower's first new year celebration since its opening last June. N'ways, we did enjoy the night (we had our spot at the DIFC) Paul Van Dyk was somewhere near the area!! Happy New Year, Everyone! May y'all have a fruitful TWENTY-ELEVEN! :D

Christmas at my Crib

2010-12-14T00:15:00.005+03:00

After days of preparing and decorating, it's come to a close.. Almost done with the Christmas arrangements! This year's theme is Mystic Blue, silver, blues and crystals on my tree.. And I'm lovin' it! More snaps to come ;)

The Mighty 'THOR' coming on May 2011

2010-12-12T16:11:00.002+03:00

This is one of my favorites from Marvel, let's see how they pull this off! Can't wait! :)

Mathaf Arab Museum of Modern Art opens with controversy

2010-12-10T18:59:00.001+03:00

With exhibits showing nudity and politically radical ideas, Qatar's brand new modern art museum may raise a few eyebrows in the traditionally conservative Middle East.
(Interesting indeed)

60 minutes with the Pacman

2010-11-11T00:42:00.001+03:00

Nice preview for the big fight in Dallas on Saturday :)

You Can Shine

2010-11-09T08:53:00.001+03:00

Every once in awhile, a truly jaw-dropping inspirational commercial captures our attention. P&G haircare brand Pantene and ad agency Grey Worldwide in Thailand have created a four-minute ad that features a young hearing-impaired girl who wants to learn to play the violin. The tag line at the end of her amazing journey—and, naturally, the end of the ad for Pantene Chrysalis Shampoo—sums it up nicely: You can shine.

Executive Creative Director: Sajan Raj Kurup
Creative Director: Sajan Raj Kurup
Copywriter: Sajan Raj Kurup, Thanonchai Sornsriwichai
Agency Producer: Bee
Director: Thanonchai Sornsriwichai

My Painting

2010-11-06T08:46:00.000+03:00

Here's an updated version of my painting.. Taking so much time to finish this piece! On and off thing makes it hard to complete, hopefully this holidays it'll be done. In the meantime, I am enjoying how it came out :)

HAPPY BIRTHDAY, ALIYAH!!!

2010-11-05T22:56:00.001+03:00

My baby girl turns 10.. Time flies!! Love you, Ate!

Limewire Shutdown

2010-11-05T08:59:00.001+03:00

A court order shuts down file-sharing program Limewire for good. I guess it's History. Read here.

Halloween

2010-11-04T08:46:00.005+03:00

This was Aliyah's Halloween look at school - Nay Ti Ri from planet Navi ;) Took time to complete and a bit challenging but really paid off well! Nice one, Ate! Love yah!

Christie's caught up as £30m forgeries send shock waves through the art world

2010-10-17T17:24:00.002+03:00

Rotes Bild mit Pferden (Red Picture with Horses), sold in 2006

This reminds me of the 1997 movie 'INCOGNITO' Definitely the Art world freaks out specially those who spent Millions of pounds on works they thought original, Geez!

Panic is spreading through the art world following the discovery of forgeries among major 20th-century paintings sold in recent years by leading auctioneers and dealers worldwide, including Christie's in London.

More than 30 paintings, thought to be by artists including Max Ernst, Raoul Dufy and Fernand Léger, have been unmasked as forgeries, the Observer has learned. The fakes have duped leading figures in the art world into parting with at least £30m.

Four of the paintings have gone through Christie's, including forgeries of Ernst's La Horde, estimated at £3.5m and eventually sold to the Würth Collection, and André Derain's Bateaux à Collioure, sold for £2m. Six paintings were sold by the leading German auctioneer, Lempertz, one for £2.8m. The forger's strategy appears to have been to create compositions that would relate to the titles of documented works whose whereabouts are not currently known.

Dealers and collectors who have recently acquired works by the artists involved "are shaking over this scandal", one insider said. "They are in a panic over whether their paintings are also forgeries. Everyone's taking a second look." The panic is so acute that collectors are even seeking refunds on unquestionably genuine works.

One expert describes the forgeries as "gold standard". They cover many styles and include works by Heinrich Campendonk, the German Expressionist. Most are in the style of the particular artist, rather than a direct copy. All are believed to have been painted by a German forger over the past 15 years. Police are now investigating whether that forger is Wolfgang Beltracchi, 59, an artist from Freiburg, aided by his wife, Helene, 52, and her sister, Susanne, 57 – women described as "great charmers". All three are now in police custody. Two men are also being investigated.

The deception involved an invented story about inheriting the paintings from the sisters' grandfather, Werner Jägers.

Dr Nicholas Eastaugh, of Art Access and Research, a leading British expert in scientific analysis of paintings, told the Observer that he has seen four of the forgeries and conducted extensive tests on three. The results confirmed that they contain pigments not available when they were supposed to have been painted. One of the paintings, Campendonk's Rotes Bild Mit Pferden (Red Picture with Horses), was sold in 2006 by Lempertz for a record price.

Eastaugh emphasised that the duped buyer has given him permission to discuss the case. A painted sketch on the back of the canvas – suggesting that the artist was trying out another idea – is also a forgery. Clues to a painting's provenance, or history, are often found on the back of a painting. Many of the forgeries have fake labels from galleries or collections to give a further authentic touch, suggesting past exhibitions. The Christie's Ernst is said to bear a false label, "Flechtheim Collection", which aroused the suspicions of the distinguished historian and Flechtheim biographer, Ralph Jentsch. Labels on other works suggest they are from the "Jägers Collection".

One duped auctioneer said: "It's significant that these paintings have been through the sale process before they got to me. They must have been sufficiently convincing."

The buyer of the Campendonk was Trasteco, a trading company in Malta, which is now claiming back the purchase price. The firm is one of two collectors represented by Friederike Gräfin von Brühl, a German lawyer at K&L Gates. She said: "For the art world, this is a big scandal. Everyone is shocked."

Christie's London – which handled alleged forgeries that include Campendonk's Girl with a Swan, sold for £67,000, and another painting that fetched £344,000 – said: "We take any doubt surrounding authenticity extremely seriously and are investigating the matter fully."

Source: The Guardian-UK

PENCIL Advertising Fights Breast Cancer

2010-10-12T16:39:00.004+03:00

PINK OCTOBER. Breast Cancer awareness month. We created an awareness campaign within our group of companies, we sent out email shots of information about the disease, how the mammogram works and self-tests. A special designed pin badges will also be handed out to our co-workers. This is in our own simple way of showing support in fighting breast cancer.

A Father's Frustration

2010-09-24T11:33:00.001+03:00

As a parent, you're pretty excited to get your child to school for the first time and that you've been waiting for that day your child will be getting into an environment full of fun, play, learning and love. But that doesn't seem to happen, well, in my son's case. I got a call a couple of days ago from the school director telling me to get my son out of his class and out of the school, perhaps you could imagine how my reaction was. I rushed to the school leaving work to find out what happened and spoke to the teachers and the school director. They said that they cannot handle my son's behavior, that He doesn't focus and pays attention and that all he wanted to do most of the time is to walk around and play at his own, for crying out loud, it's only been the 5th day of school! What do they expect a 3 year old boy do? I just wish the standards are as high as their expectations and that the high strict discipline that they try to imply is also being practiced by themselves. My son is normal, just like any other 3 year old, He never poke a pencil in one's eye or steal their lunch boxes or hit and make another child cry, He just love partying :) I was told by the school to keep my son at home for a week and send him back again to school (isn't that suspension?) I don't think I'm going to send him back there, simply because they cannot handle an active child and that they don't have any capability and knowledge to handle one.

I'm Baack!

2010-09-17T00:33:00.002+03:00

DANG!! It's been ages since I last posted here! I've been away for too long, or have I been that lazy?!! Nah, it's the work!! Yes! WORK, that's what's keeping me busy and away from cyberspace (or should I say Blogging?). Nways, I will be posting again some of the things that I've encountered all those days! Keep it right here, y'all! Nice to be back :)

New Works 2010

2010-07-21T22:35:00.001+03:00

Here's a sneak peek at my newest of my 2010 series on oil. Will post details soon :)

Star Wars now on TOM TOM GPS - YODA

2010-07-17T12:12:00.001+03:00

Last May I posted the Darth Vader version of the Tom Tom GPS Ads. Here's another sequel to the Star Wars© Tom Tom commercial. I can't stop loving this!

DJ Courses This Summer!

2010-07-16T12:29:00.000+03:00

OK, it's been like forever that I haven't teached. So I thought why not bring it back again? Since I always get phone calls asking me if I can spare them some time to learn the art of turntablism. This is only for students based in Kuwait.

2010-07-15T12:06:00.001+03:00

Here are some of the latest creative ads we made at work. This is for our client's website launch. It reads in Arabic, "Find out more about the best deals online", "Find out more about great discounts online" and "Find out more about amazing price cuts online" www.electrozan.com

Football Greats featured on LV ad.

2010-07-14T11:59:00.004+03:00

I am always fascinated by the picture quality of LV ads, and this is the latest of their series.

Mellow + Colorful Music Video

2010-07-14T11:53:00.001+03:00

Breakbot - Baby I'm Yours (feat. Irfane) - HD from Ed Banger Records on Vimeo.

Stumbled into this a while ago, thought it's amazing and truly inspiring!

World Cup Crazy!

2010-06-24T14:18:00.002+03:00

Been busy lately, haven't had the time to blog about things. One of them is the World Cup! There's been a lot of weird things happening at the tournament, but it's getting better each match, Let's wait and see!

"Tomorrow"

2010-05-20T11:10:00.002+03:00

Last night was the Arts & Music Show, a talent show produced by the grade school students at the American International School and Aliyah is a part of it with group and a solo performance. The auditorium was packed, people from different nationalities, parents, teachers, friends and students filled the seats. We entered, Aliyah was a bit nervous after seeing the crowd, I guess that's a normal thing because even myself would have butterflies in my stomach performing on stage in front of those people. Showtime! At the second half of the show, the emcee, (who's also their Arts & Music teacher) announced a 'special' treat for the audience, and said that it's a rare moment that they'd be having a solo performance from a very talented young girl from grade 4 and she calls Aliyah onstage and the applause! Aliyah gave a small introduction about herself and the song she'll be singing, "Tomorrow" from the musical Annie, with a huge Annie poster projected on the background wall. Music starts, a karaoke version of the original, after the first verse, the unexpected happened, the cd starts skipping! Aliyah stops singing and stands right there with a smile looking straight at the control booth, the music stops, the emcee jumps in the scene, the crowd reaction was mixed, and we waited, after 20 seconds of no music, the emcee went to her and asked her if she wants to do it in a cappella, and she says yes! The crowd applause was crazy, i heard some whistling, yelling "yeah!" in the audience. And she takes off.. but just when she's about to sing, the music plays again, (damn! I'm really hating the guy in the control room), Aliyah for a split second looked at me, and I gave her a nod to "go on", and she did, with a sweet smile and a bit of action on her singing, I knew it wasn't there when we practised it at home, I told her that when things go wrong and you're on stage, smile and never look scared-be confident, remember that you are singing their song, and you have to give your best doing it! And she did! after the last verse and the ending, the auditorium was filled with applause, Aliyah got a 'Standing Ovation! A wonderful performance, and a real great experience for Aliyah, You made us proud again, love! - You're my Superstar!

Star Wars now on TOM TOM GPS

2010-05-06T13:05:00.001+03:00

I just wish we have it here in Kuwait, Imagine Lord Vader telling you.. "after 10 meters turn right..>breathe<.." Love it!!!

Saturday Storm: April 17, 2010

2010-04-17T22:38:00.009+03:00

This one's every blogger's dream: To witness and cover this first-hand! It's called 'Saraya' in Arabic, a sandstorm with rains and violent winds. This one turned a Saturday morning into midnight! Really freaky experience! I was lucky enough to grab my cam and cover this! Music by Chris Mansell

Still photos by: Luciedebelkova

Embrace Life: Wear Your Seatbelts

2010-04-14T12:45:00.002+03:00

My colleague showed me this ad for Sussex Safer Roads, Very simple yet emotional! Left me teary-eyed. Whew!

IPAD: It's Finally Here!!

2010-04-12T15:04:00.004+03:00

After that much of a wait.. I finally got hold of the iPad, I'd say it's simply amazing! Now selling at Electrozan Electronics Store at a very, very good price!

The Tiger is out of the Woods

2010-04-09T08:53:00.004+03:00

After the controversy, after being dropped by most of his sponsors, Tiger Woods came back with this Nike spot. I saw this clip last night before the start of the Masters on ESPN, I'd say it's a good ad, W+K does it again!

Apple's iPAD

2010-04-07T14:13:00.002+03:00

My fingers are just itching for the 'Smudge', I will be having this baby soon!

New Works 2010

2010-04-05T22:08:00.003+03:00

It's been a while since my last post, Yes, I was busy, NO! I was dead busy! Aside from those hectic deadlines at the office, my workout schedules and of course - my paintings! I've sketched some new studies for my works for 2010 and here's one of them, This happens to be a color study (in oil) of a part of one of my drawings.. Turned out to be ok, and perhaps will continue on with the rest till I get somewhere, we'll see :) You never know where your art will take you, as long as there's passion - everything is achievable!

Me with my latest work on oil :)

'Untitled' Oil on canvas

AIS International Fair

2010-03-19T22:02:00.007+03:00

Here's some snaps from the AIS international fair held last Thursday where countries from different parts of the world prepared booths showcasing cultures, food, arts, crafts, etc. It was a great event, the weather was nice! We all had fun :) Videos coming soon!

A detail of the Philippines Booth.

Featuring my Award-winning Digital piece for the backdrop :)

Umm, Choc•Nut anyone? Simply irresistable.. It was a box-office, actually.

Elijah by the Comments wall (I wonder what he's up to:)

Yufan (China), Shahed (Egypt) & Aliyah (Philippines)

Aliyah & Stacey wearing coat of arms.

Aliyah (Philippines), Ranad (Kuwait) & Yasmin (Lebanon).

Annabelle & Samantha :)

Pro Bowler & Family friend Sonia Mathews with kids and Amy D.

Mom & Eli :) Booth is almost empty, the food was a big hit!

Reppin' the Philippines, yours truly with Eli :)

IT'S ON!

2010-03-13T17:31:00.002+03:00

Bad Ass from Ghana takes on the Champ from the Philippines in the world's biggest stadium as one of the greatest fight in boxing! The Event is On! Live on PPV :)

The Pac is Back!

2010-02-18T11:56:00.002+03:00

Rising on top of the San Francisco Nike town.. The leader of the Pac!
(Awesome athlete b•tchface attitude :)

When Pranks Went Wrong

2010-01-27T17:18:00.001+03:00

The prank was set up perfectly. A high school girls' basketball coach in Kansas was told he'd win tickets to the Final Four if he hit a half-court shot while blindfolded. The crowd was instructed to scream wildly when his attempt inevitably failed (because, really, that shot is nearly impossible) so the coach would think the shot went in. For an instant ,he'd think he was Final-Four-bound and then the joke would be revealed. There was just one problem, though: He made it!

Aliyah's Musical Preview at the AIS-Kuwait

2010-01-17T22:28:00.002+03:00

Here's a vid of my daughter's performance of their musical presentation, "Ocean Commotion" at the American International School, singing her version of "On With The Show", enjoy :)

Pinoy Fighting Machine

2010-01-14T00:20:00.003+03:00

Meet Mark Muñoz, the "Pacman" of the UFC (Ultimate Fighting Championship), another Filipino fighting machine. Check out his wec debut fight against a towering 6'6" opponent and how this brown man from Sacramento chopped him off, blow-by-blow!

Whoops!

2010-01-11T08:40:00.002+03:00

Now, this is what happens when players get a little confused or out of focused, watch closely... Nice call by the ref, sharp eyesight. lol

The Hot Rod is back!!

2010-01-07T14:27:00.005+03:00

Here's something to put in your calendar: IRON MAN 2. A sequel to the successful Marvel movie, now with even greater characters and actors... Black Widow, War Machine and Whiplash?! I am so very watching this!! Come MAY quick!

Khalifa Tower aka Burj Dubai

2010-01-06T15:48:00.002+03:00

Towering at a boastful 820 meters high, the Burj Dubai, now named Khalifa Tower is the tallest building in the planet! I wonder how many years it would keep its title, but in the meantime, this is a great challenge for Alain Robert aka the French spiderman, would he scale it? This is something to watch for! :)

Pacman's Comedy Film

2009-12-12T22:01:00.002+03:00

Here's a trailer of Manny Pacquiao's movie, WAPAKMAN. I think it's going to be a nice one judging on the trailer, really hilarious! I will definitely go and check this one out in Manila next week.

Sovereign I

2009-11-27T12:58:00.002+03:00

Sovereign I, oil on canvas - 2008. This is the first of the Sovereign series. It will be included in my 2010 show :)

New Works for 2010

2009-11-25T12:03:00.003+03:00

Here's something to watch for! My new works on oil set for a show in 2010. Inspired by my last show at the Blu Hotel, this is one way of saying "Thank You' to all of the lovely people who came, saw and enjoyed my 'Stages' exhibit :)

In The Mix!

2009-11-25T09:26:00.005+03:00

It's party time! Getting ready for that much awaited gig at the McDonald's Annual Party, this time it's 4 consecutive days, with a much larger crowd than last year! I will be spinning the hottest and the latest tracks live and in the mix!
I'm Lovin' This!

Clash of the Titans

2009-11-23T14:44:00.003+03:00

A remake of the '81 classic, The Titans will Clash on March 2010... Can't Wait!!!

Unveiling the SONY VAIO® X Laptop

2009-11-21T08:55:00.005+03:00

Meet SONY's newest entry to the netbook category: VAIO® X series! The size zero of laptops™ and the world's lightest®. I am one of the first few to get to hold one of these amazing babies! Launching will be held today at 12noon at the Movenpick Hotel & Resort, unveiling the X series! More updates!

Funny Pacman!

2009-11-18T14:41:00.003+03:00

Sports Soup host Matt Iseman interviews Manny Pacquiao at the Wild Card Gym before his fight with Cotto, The Pacman cracks some jokes, pokes fun and throws punchlines! Hilarious!

Chat With The Dark Side

2009-11-08T16:20:00.003+03:00

Okay, here's something.. Can't really stop from laughing! :) Sorry, StarWars fans, just for laughs!

Dentyne

2009-11-04T20:59:00.000+03:00

Nice Thai spot for Dentyne, Lol!

Safeguard

2009-11-04T17:54:00.000+03:00

Nice one for Safeguard by Campaigns & Grey on AH1N1 :)

SOLD!

2009-10-29T15:35:00.005+03:00

An update on the exhibit, here's some of the paintings that was sold during the event :)

Sovereign II (2009) Oil on canvas

A Walk Out In The Rain (2009) Oil on canvas

My Sole Companion (2009) Oil on canvas

Tenderness (2006) Oil on canvas

Mystical Journey (2005) Oil on canvas

Give Us This Day (2006) Oil on canvas

Brothers In Arms (2006) Oil on canvas

3 AM Metro (2007) Oil on canvas

STAGES : The Opening Night

2009-10-24T22:00:00.008+03:00

With Award-winning and world-renowned Kuwaiti artist, Mdme Thuraya Al Baqsami with my family :)

With Ms. Mariam Al Hashim of Pencil Advertising.

Guests viewing my "Tsinelas" series on the platform. It was a hit!

With good friends of mine, Mario Pulvida (Grey Advertising) & Joe Kawasaki (Integra Films)

Philippine Ambassador Ricardo Endaya giving his introductory speech.

With Mr. Mohammed Al Qadiri, General Manager of Kuwait's Famous Ghadir Gallery and Husband of Kuwaiti Artist Mdme. Thuraya Al Baqsami with My Wife Cecilia & Daughter Aliyah.

The ever supportive Philippine Embassy Staff :)

Art Afficionados, VIPs and some of the local elite at the show.

Diplomats from the ASEAN and the Australian Embassy.

Explaining one of my works to Art Patrons from Vietnam and Switzerland.

With Art Patrons Mdme. Arwa Afuni and Ms. Pamela from the American Universal School.

My angel Aliyah wearing a Filipiñana by Paul Cabral.

His Excellency Philippine Ambassador Ricardo Endaya being Interviewed by GMA TV.

It's ON! pt 2

2009-10-22T18:30:00.001+03:00

STAGES
A One Man Show by Gilbert Semillano

"My painting is a recorded experience, a visual translation of various emotions and thoughts, which comes from deep within... driven out by passion and inspiration. Every year for me is a journey... An endless path... An indefinite find... In pursuit of perfection."

Beg For The Typhoon Victims

2009-10-20T10:00:00.000+03:00

Here's a spot by DDB Philippines for McDonald's RMHC (Ronald McDonald's House Charities) Featuring Philippine Megastar Sharon Cuneta.

Sharon Cuneta (On V.O.):

If this is what I have to do for those who are in need,

If this is the only way to urge you to help.

I will.

It's ON!

2009-10-19T11:00:00.000+03:00

My One Man Show, entitled "STAGES" is going to be held at the Failaka Hall, Radisson SAS Hotel on the 22nd (VIP) and 23rd (Public Viewing), October 2009. With Kuwait's Madame Thuraya Al Baqsami and Philippine Ambassador Ricardo Endaya as Guests of Honors! Awesomeness!

Polaroid is BACK!

2009-10-18T10:07:00.001+03:00

When the Polaroid Factory closed in 2008, everybody thought that it would be the end of instant photography. But the Impossible Project, a group of former workers of the factory and Polaroid's groupies have decided to buy the brand and all the machines of the factory to put Polaroid back on the market for 2010!

Bebot Generation 1&2 -BEP

2009-10-17T21:51:00.003+03:00

Rewind. A look at BEP's Bebot video.. Star-studded and purely Pinoy, what a classic :)

Art historians claim Van Gogh's ear 'cut off by Gauguin'

2009-10-15T10:22:00.000+03:00

Vincent van Gogh's fame may owe as much to a legendary act of self-harm, as it does to his self-portraits. But, 119 years after his death, the tortured post-Impressionist's bloody ear is at the centre of a new controversy, after two historians suggested that the painter did not hack off his own lobe but was attacked by his friend, the French artist Paul Gauguin. According to official versions, the disturbed Dutch painter cut off his ear with a razor after a row with Gauguin in 1888. Bleeding heavily, Van Gogh then walked to a brothel and presented the severed ear to an astonished prostitute called Rachel before going home to sleep in a blood-drenched bed. But two German art historians, who have spent 10 years reviewing the police investigations, witness accounts and the artists' letters, argue that Gauguin, a fencing ace, most likely sliced off the ear with his sword during a fight, and the two artists agreed to hush up the truth. In Van Gogh's Ear: Paul Gauguin and the Pact of Silence, published in Germany, Hamburg-based academics Hans Kaufmann and Rita Wildegans argue that the official version of events, based largely on Gauguin's accounts, contain inconsistencies and that both artists hinted that the truth was more complex. Van Gogh and Gauguin's troubled friendship was legendary. In 1888, Van Gogh persuaded him to come to Arles in the south of France to live with him in the Yellow House he had set up as a "studio of the south". They spent the autumn painting together before things soured. Just before Christmas, they fell out. Van Gogh, seized by an attack of a metabolic disease became aggressive and was apparently crushed when Gauguin said he was leaving for good. Kaufmann told the Guardian: "Near the brothel, about 300 metres from the Yellow House, there was a final encounter between them: Vincent might have attacked him, Gauguin wanted to defend himself and to get rid of this 'madman'. He drew his weapon, made some movement in the direction of Vincent and by that cut off his left ear." Kaufmann said it was not clear if it was an accident or an aimed hit.

While curators at the Van Gogh museum in Amsterdam stand by the theory of self-mutilation, Kaufmann argues that Van Gogh dropped hints in letters to his brother, Theo, once commenting : "Luckily Gauguin ... is not yet armed with machine guns and other dangerous war weapons." -guardian.co.uk

BEP Rocks Chicago!

2009-10-14T11:47:00.002+03:00

One great number pulled off by the Black Eyed Peas for Oprah's 24th Season launch in Chicago! The one thing that's amazing was the flash mob dance! Soo Cool!

Madonna For Louis Vuitton pt 1 & 2

2009-10-14T10:12:00.002+03:00

"This was really different," explains Antoine Arnault, communications director of Louis Vuitton, when asked how Madonna came to front the company's new spring/summer campaign. "Usually, these things take much, much longer," he explains; a lengthy process of identifying the right person to embody the fashion and luxury-goods brand, the right photographer, the right look for the campaign, plus, of course, all the deal-making a project like this involves. This time, however, pretty much everything was agreed inside a week.

"On the Monday," Arnault recalls, "we had a meeting, and Marc Jacobs suggested Madonna. I thought, yes, great idea, but it will never happen. Then, in the meeting, Marc sent her a text saying, ‘Love, would you like to be the new Louis Vuitton woman?' Five minutes later, she'd replied. He showed me his phone, and she'd said, ‘Yes, I'd love to do it.'" What could be simpler ?

Clearly, when a big brand like Louis Vuitton chooses a new face for its campaign, it's not just a matter of affectionate text messages between Marc Jacobs and Madonna. Men like Louis Vuitton's CEO, Yves Carcelle, have to agree that it is a good idea, not a whim, as well as, of course, Carcelle's boss and Antoine Arnault's father, Bernard Arnault, head of the LVMH luxury-goods empire.

But as Antoine Arnault sees it, "Marc knows the brand probably better than anyone now," having been artistic director for a decade, during which time Louis Vuitton has expanded massively. Jacobs had seen Madonna in concert the week before, but it wasn't some "let's be crazy" decision, Arnault explains, citing how Jacobs had previously picked J-Lo as the face of Louis Vuitton in 2003. "That wasn't an obvious choice, perhaps, but it instantly put us on the top in the US in one campaign.
"Madonna is glamorous," Arnault continues. "She has a global image. She's the ultimate performer and businesswoman, and not someone who is just a famous singer. She has travelled; she has tried to change things." And if her personal life isn't perfect right now, "Well, that only makes her more human." Once the proposal had been made, and provisionally accepted, in both cases by text, "Then we had to agree on a figure, a concept, a photographer." Yet the whole process seems to have been plain sailing – an object lesson, if you like, in the degree of certainty that people at the top of the fashion industry tend to display about their creative choices.

The figure? Well, just how much Madonna is being paid for what is, in a sense, both one day's work and the product of many years at the top of her game is a moot point. Some have claimed it's $10 million (£6.6 million). But Arnault is careful to puncture that, saying, "The figure is really, really lower than that. In times like these, it would be totally irresponsible to pay anyone $10 million."

The concept? Madonna has been photographed in a nostalgic, Parisian bistro setting, perhaps at that "waiters whistling as the last bar closes" moment in the early hours. "Only it's in LA," Arnault quips, not Paris - "One of those French bistros in California where you really think you're in France" - and it's daytime and there are hundreds of paparazzi outside. Madonna smoulders quietly, all fishnets and high kicks, with a glamour that gives more than a nod to Dietrich, long an acknowledged influence. She's wearing Marc Jacobs' ready-to-wear clothes for Louis Vuitton, styled by Marie-Amélie Sauvé, with, of course, due prominence given to some lovely bags and shoes, those accessories that have long been such steady earners for the brand.

But there is a certain quietness to the images, a kind of gentleness, perhaps, which might also (along with that willingly professed prudence over Madonna's fee) be a sign of the extraordinary times we live in. Certainly, when I put it to Arnault that the crunch might be changing the aesthetic and that, in particular, a certain kind of flash advertising message now looks passé, even wrong somehow, he doesn't exactly demur. "Other people can try to rationalise every campaign, but there is certainly a feeling that emerges from designers, photographers, creatives of all kinds, which is maybe something they don't talk about, but which they can feel."

The photographer in question here is Steven Meisel, rather than Mert and Marcus, who have shot all of Louis Vuitton's campaigns since 2002, including those amazingly effective shots of J-Lo. "We were very happy with them," Arnault insists, but all good things come to an end – and, after all, it was Meisel who photographed the wilder, younger, more in-your-face Madonna who leapt off the pages of Sex, the book which caused such a storm back in 1992. So this campaign can be seen as something of a reunion, Meisel additionally having photographed Madonna for Vanity Fair late last year. Jacobs and Meisel are old friends, too, Arnault explains, "from the crazy years of the Eighties".

And once Antoine Arnault had assembled his dream team? "I think the three of them were in touch with each other on the phone almost every day," he says of the run-up to the shoot, “talking about ideas, sharing references, then talking about individual shots." On the big day itself, "About 50 people were on the set, which sounds like a lot, but it's all in the preparation, in the make-up and the set and so on. Once that was in place, Madonna would come out, get into position, and the shots went amazingly quickly, sometimes in about 15 minutes. It was a delight."

Marc Jacobs was so pleased with this spring’s Louis Vuitton campaign featuring Madonna that he was eager to do an encore. 'But very quickly Marc said, ‘I want something completely different,’' related Antoine Arnault, Vuitton’s communication director. The new ingredients included a dash of Tamara de Lempicka and a soupçon of Man Ray for color-drenched images by Steven Meisel with a surreal edge, thanks to generous use of solarization, a technique of overexposure first perfected by Ray.-Artlive

Comme des Garçons for Converse!

2009-10-13T23:47:00.004+03:00

This winter, Comme des Garçons revists the Converse Chuck Taylor All Star, the 50's star shoes. Rei Kawakubo, the creative director of the brand is behind this design. It's a MUST-HAVE!!

Walk In Rhythm

2009-10-13T16:24:00.001+03:00

Cool Initiative from Volkswagen! I love it :)

My Gym Instructors

2009-10-10T12:00:00.002+03:00

Meet Choi and Noel, my gym instructors! Both from Manila, Choi (L) is a building champ and Noel (R) is a celebrity trainer and trains stars like Diether Ocampo & Jericho Rosales over at Gold's Gym in Manila. Cool dudes!

Barrack Obama Wins 2009 Nobel Peace Prize

2009-10-09T21:00:00.003+03:00

"for his extraordinary efforts to strengthen international diplomacy and cooperation between peoples"

(Let's just hope Kanye West won't disrupt the precedings :)

HALO 3

2009-10-09T12:00:00.000+03:00

I am not that much of a game freak, I love watching the ads rather than playing the game. Then I stumbled into this one from Halo 3, And it is so intriguing that it urges me to play! Unlike the traditional 3Dish animated stuffed commercials, this one's waay unconventional, A live action trailer? I thought it was for a movie!:) The new trend in gaming ads is upon us all. Brilliant ad!

THE CREDS:
Client: Xbox
Game Title: Halo 3 ODST
Spots Title: "The Life"
Air Date: September 2009

Agency: T.A.G.
Executive Creative Director(s): Scott Duchon, John Patroulis
Art Director: Aramis Israel
Copywriter: Rick Herrera
Agency Executive Producer: Hannah Murray
Agency Producer: Joyce Chen

Ondoy/Ketsana Appeal

2009-10-08T18:26:00.001+03:00

By BBDO Guerrero for Philippine Red Cross.

Spray Off In Paris

2009-10-07T22:53:00.006+03:00

What happens when a Train Company collaborates with graffiti artists? A Effing Jazzed up Train ride! Yup, A French train company, Thalys, invited 6 of Europe's best writers/ graffiti artists to paint their train within 3:15 hours time before it takes off from Paris to Cologne and Amsterdam. The CEO of Thalys, Olivier Poitrenaud, said, that one reason for this event was, that Thalys doesn’t have a problem with graffiti on trains. The artists that took part in the event were Seak One, Jonone 156, Sozy One, Zeds, Nunca & Opak. Awesomeness!

The Voca People

2009-10-07T22:49:00.002+03:00

Probably the best since Shakatak and Bob McFerrin, Pretty damn amazing! Lovin' it! :)

Pink For October

2009-10-05T00:10:00.006+03:00

It's October and it's Breast Cancer Month. I'm turning my header into Pink in support for the Awareness of Breast Cancer. This ad was done by us at Pencil Advertising and was released in 2007, published in a local daily and posted on blogs in Kuwait, Tokyo, Brazil and as far as Israel (?) and lately was used by the British Army Federation for their article on Breast Cancer published in their Health Magazine which is distributed worldwide.

REAL or GHOST?

2009-09-09T11:25:00.006+03:00

One thing for sure is that the Panasonic 'Jesus' ad made by FP7 Doha (which brought outrage in Lebanon) was a genuine ghost! This ad by DDB Brasil for WWF somehow is a bit controversial as where it was claimed that it was real, approved and released BUT WWF says it wasn't. What's the deal? GHOST or REAL?

Here's a statement issued by WWF:

"WWF reiterates our strong condemnation and repudiation of this offensive and tasteless ad and reaffirms that no one in the US organization had any knowledge or any role in the ad's creation and expresses its regret for any pain it may have caused 9-11 victims and their families.
"Earlier this week, WWF-US issued a statement based on information provided by WWF Brazil, a separate and independent organization within the international WWF network, that the ad was created by an outside agency and was not authorized by anyone within their organization.
"WWF Brazil has subsequently issued statements that have raised doubts about whether the ad concept was approved at some level within the WWF Brazil organization.
"We have now re-launched a renewed inquiry into the circumstance surrounding the creation of the ad. Additionally, we are using every resource at our disposal to remove these images everywhere they exist online because they are hurtful and disrespectful to the victims of 9-11 and their families.
"We deeply regret that the information we provided, while given in good faith, may not have been completely accurate. We stand by our earlier statements that the ad was utterly inappropriate and should never have seen the light of day. They do not in any way reflect the thoughts and feelings of the people of World Wildlife Fund. Again, WWF-US strongly condemns this campaign and offers our sincere and heartfelt apologies."

Not only that, but this ad wins a merit award at the One Show Awards which brings the awards committee to create a more strict guidelines!

Here's what One Show has to say:

The One Show statement says: “In the light of the recent events surrounding the “Tsunami Ad” created by DDB Brazil for WWF, the One Club announces today that we will implement what we believe to be the most stringent and thorough “fake ads” policy in our industry.

The One Club defines “fake ads” as: ads created for nonexistent clients or made and run without a client’s approval, or ads created expressly for award shows that are run once to meet the requirements of a tear sheet.

For 2010 and onwards, the One Show will be adopting the following new rules and penalties.

1. An agency or regional office of an agency network that enters an ad made for nonexistent clients, or made and run without a client’s approval, will be banned from entering the One Show for 5 years.

2. The entire team credited on the “fake” entries will be banned from entering the One Show for 5 years.

3. An agency or regional office of an agency network that enters an ad that has run once, on late night TV, or has only run because the agency produced a single ad and paid to run it themselves*, will be banned from entering The One Show for 3 years.

*The One Club reserves the right to review ‘late-night, ran-once’ and launch versions, at The One Club’s discretion. If it is determined that the ad was created expressly for award show entry, the penalty will hold.”

Update 1:

Wednesday evening: DDB Brazil posted a statement on its Web site Wednesday, signed by both WWF Brazil and DDB Brazil, claiming shared responsibility for the creation and initial approval of this ad, which has caused a firestorm of controversy since Tuesday morning.
The English version of the statement reads: "WWF Brasil and DDB Brasil would like to jointly express their regret for the unfortunate incident involving the 'Tsunami' ad for World Wildlife Fund Brasil. The ad does not convey either the philosophy of the client or that of its advertising agency. It was created and approved in late 2008, mistakenly, and was solely the result of lack of experience on the part of a few professionals from both parties involved. In no way was it done in bad faith or with disrespect to American suffering. WWF Brasil and DDB Brasil acknowledge that such an ad never should have been made, approved or published. We reiterate our apologies to all those who may have been offended by it. The two entities have worked together for three years to mobilize people, efforts and resources for the good of the environment. A single error should not obscure past successes, nor prevent future ones."

Update 2:

An e-mailed statement from DDB Brazil in which the agency, while still apologizing for the ad's creation, claims it was approved for publication by the local branch of the WWF. The statement reads: "The 'Tsunami' ad for World Wildlife Fund Brasil was created by a team at DDB Brasil in December 2008, approved and ran. The team in question is no longer with the Agency. DDB Brasil apologizes to anyone who was offended or affected by the ad. It should never have been made and it does not portray the philosophy of the agency."

Well, whatever the case might be, creatives should know that creativity comes with great responsibility!

It's ON!

2009-09-09T10:28:00.006+03:00

Let the Battle begin! This time, it's going to be a real showcase with Star-studded DJs! Amazing how Turntablism evolved, from mash ups, beat-juggling to custom vinyls! Indeed, DJs / Turntablists aren't just music players but artists! Wish I could be there to witness the 25th Anniversary! (VINYL RULES)

The Event

For 25 incredible boundary pushing, trend setting, scratched, cut and mixed years, the world's largest DJ organization, DMC, has been the authority on the DJ battle. The DMC's annual World DJ Championship competition brings together the world's brightest DJ talents, vetted by a series of gruelling global heats. By doing so, DMC continues to host one of the most entertaining and jaw dropping shows you will ever witness. This year's show is no different. In the 25th Anniversary of this prestigious competition, DMC is bigger than ever…

On September the 11th and 12th, the Indig02 will see the DJ event of the year shake the very foundations of the entire infamous Dome. For the 25th Anniversary the stakes are higher than ever for the winners of this momentous year. And DMC are pulling all the stops to make sure this is not just a competition, but in the true essence of the DJ, a party to remember. With competitors from over 30 countries spanning the globe, the truly international DMC is bigger than ever.

To kick start the weekend correctly, Friday, September 11th's proceedings see the exhilarating Battle For Supremacy take place, with last year's World Champion DJ Switch defending his title against the planet's very best Supremacy title holders, including this year's UK winner - DJ Rasp. The Team Battles also take place on the day, determining who will follow in the footsteps of the competition's greats of previous years - from France's C2C, Scratch Perverts and the Allies.

In between the intense battles, the charismatic DJ Yoda will present a special live AV performance detailing the 25 Years of DMC, in his own ingenious way. This is bound to be a one-off, extremely exciting performance that is not to be missed! DJ I-Dee will also be showcasing the brand new Numark NS7 on the night, using state of the art Serato Itch software - a World's first! Jehst and Micall Parknsun follow up their storming UK Final set, returning with an energetic, unbeatable performance that you cannot miss.

On Saturday September 12th, DJ Jeppa will be flying the British flag in the DJ Championship World Final, as the worlds best DJs compete for the ultimate accolade! Pioneering legend and former DMC World Champion, DJ Q Bert will be flying over to perform on the night, and Rob Swift (Ill Insanity / X-Ecutioners) will be showcasing Scratch Live, as presented by sponsors Rane and Serato. Current World Champ DJ Fly will also be showcasing his talents.

And of course the winners will not leave empty handed - Champions over the two days have treats a-plenty in store. The bounty that awaits them will include prizes from Panasonic and Technics, Numark NS7, Drunknmunky clothing, Rane TTM57Sl mixer, Rane SL3's, CKIN2U goodies, Gold Disc awards, Ortofon needles and DMC are bringing back the much sought after classic Champion jackets for the 25th Anniversary.

At the end of the night, to round off the 25th Anniversary celebrations in style, DMC have invited a myriad of the best of the best to perform together in one massive SUPER JAM! Q Bert, Rob Swift, DJ Fly, Shiftee and Switch. Hosted by the world famous Killa Kela, it is going to be legendary as the experienced winners go back to back with the new world champs.

With World Championship winners over the years including the superstar likes of the Scratch Perverts, A-Trak (Kanye West's DJ), Q Bert, Craze, Cash Money and Mixmaster Mike (Beastie Boys), fame and respect could well accompany the bountiful prizes on offer. (source: dmcworld.com)

Hey Pablo!

2009-09-09T09:53:00.007+03:00

One of the things that I love with Communication Arts is the Illustrations, and this guy is particularly one of the artist that I like! Argentinian illustrator Pablo Lobato, his cubism style and bold, vibrant colors really makes it a hit! Worked as a graphic designer and now, freakin' famous with quite an impressive clients on his list like the New Yorker, Rolling Stone, Time Magazine, LA Times Magazine, LA Magazine, The New Republic, Boston Globe, Texas Monthly, Cosmopolitan Germany, Chief Executive, Flare, AARP, Paste Magazine, New York Daily News!

Helvetica the Documentary

2009-09-09T09:45:00.005+03:00

The most common of the types, overused and ignored. I learned a lot about this font after watching the documentary.

About the Film

Helvetica is a feature-length independent film about typography, graphic design and global visual culture. It looks at the proliferation of one typeface (which celebrated its 50th birthday in 2007) as part of a larger conversation about the way type affects our lives. The film is an exploration of urban spaces in major cities and the type that inhabits them, and a fluid discussion with renowned designers about their work, the creative process, and the choices and aesthetics behind their use of type.

Helvetica encompasses the worlds of design, advertising, psychology, and communication, and invites us to take a second look at the thousands of words we see every day. The film was shot in high-definition on location in the United States, England, the Netherlands, Germany, Switzerland, France and Belgium.

Interviewees in Helvetica include some of the most illustrious and innovative names in the design world, including Erik Spiekermann, Matthew Carter, Massimo Vignelli, Wim Crouwel, Hermann Zapf, Neville Brody, Stefan Sagmeister, Michael Bierut, David Carson, Paula Scher, Jonathan Hoefler, Tobias Frere-Jones, Experimental Jetset, Michael C. Place, Norm, Alfred Hoffmann, Mike Parker, Bruno Steinert, Otmar Hoefer, Leslie Savan, Rick Poynor, and Lars Müller.

Helvetica had its World Premiere at the South by Southwest Film Festival in March 2007. The film subsequently toured film festivals, special events, and art house cinemas worldwide, playing in over 300 cities in 40 countries. It received its television premiere on BBC1 in November 2007, and will be broadcast on PBS as part of the Emmy award-winning series Independent Lens in fall 2008. The film was nominated for a 2008 Independent Spirit Award in the "Truer Than Fiction" category, and was shortlisted for the Design Museum London's "Designs of the Year" Award. An excerpt of the film was included in an exhibition at the Museum of Modern Art in New York.

Survivor Philippines - Season 2

2009-09-05T00:59:00.003+03:00

I must admit, I am NOT a big fan of this until I saw the first episode of Season 2, I thought, yeah, yeah, whatever! But hey! This really got my attention! The profile of the survivors is quite impressive, like good-looking men and hot chicks, one is a pilot, another is a commercial model and an ex-PBA! Although the idea could be better and the challenges to be more exciting and could bring more suspense to the viewers. Anyways, it all seems good! I like the Koror tribe, it really resembles the typical, everyone's got the ego and hated each other, but in the end - in pursuit of survival, they all go hand in hand for the win! I am hooked to this program, and I am loving every episode of it! And I hope some of you too! (who has GMA tv via Orbit).

Louis Vuitton Campaign

2009-09-01T16:29:00.004+03:00

Celebrating the 40th Anniversary of the first moon landing, LV releases this ad featuring Sally Ride (First American Woman in Space), Buzz Aldrin (Apollo 11, First Steps on the Moon in 1969) & Jim Lovell (Apollo 13 Commander). Photographed by the legendary Annie Liebovitz. Lovely!

Non Humans Not Allowed!

2009-09-01T15:03:00.005+03:00

This kinda looks cool, I haven't seen this yet (Whaatt?! Serious?!!) but I will tonight. What makes it more interesting (aside from making a box office hit) was the extensive advertising campaign, they went viral, outdoor, ambient, I mean.. this is what I'm talking about! Dayumn! Another great one from Peter Jackson, I really like! Check out their site.