Know Artists : Part Five

The following is the fifth installment to the upcoming “Know” art exhibition to be held at this year’s Art Now Fair in Miami. “Know” will be an eclectic collection and a great opportunity for collectors to review artists who have all created customized art pieces specifically for this show. Hope to see you there.


Through striking visual imagery, Jeff Soto communicates profound visions and fears, nostalgia of his youth, and themes of love, lust, and hope. Soto’s distinct color palette, subject matter, technique and bold themes resonate with a growing audience. Inspired by childhood toys, the colorful lifestyle of skateboarding and graffiti, hip-hop and popular culture, Soto’s work is simultaneously accessible and stimulating. Check out his latest painting, entitled "Five Stars." For more information about Jeff and all of his goodness, check out www.jeffsoto.com


Ryan Heshka pays homage to the “Golden” era Scifi Pulp on a prolific scale. Being born into a low-tech era, Ryan often explores narrative themes of man vs. nature, or woman vs. man. Ryan’s latest acrylic and collage painting entitled, “Up Yours,” compliments his thematic stance nicely. You can see Ryan on the latest cover of “BLAB,” or at www.ryanheshka.com


AJ Fosik”s, “untitled were head,” is an enamel on wood sculpture— one part cryptic puzzle and one part ingenious assemblage. AJ is a master assembler of bits of wood, color and glass to create beasts of war, enraged by life’s unfortunate circumstance. AJ’s work is sculptural in nature, as geometric shapes, and flowing line patterns entrance the viewer. Check AJ out on the web, just Google his name, and presto, there he is.


Gordon Wiebe’s conceptual style strikes an emotional chord, connecting with the viewer in layered levels of understanding. Humor, drama, joy and the melancholic all make an appearance in his work. Gordon’s painterly style, fragmented with collage, incorporates distinctly expressive figures into richly colored, spare landscapes, as seen in his latest, “hesitant bather.” Visit www. gordonwiebe.com to see more of Gordon Wiebe’s colorful mixed media paintings.


Greg “Craola” Simkins’ artistic career started when he was introduced to spray paint in 1993. Greg’s stylized approach became immediately recognizable, thus “Craola” was born. Greg soon transitioned his talents and focused on painting with acrylics . His unique color usage and blending techniques became another signature trait. Greg Simkins’ graffiti lettering style is seen in the way his characters twist and morph, forming into beastly creatures. You can check out more of Greg’s work at www.imscared.com


Gary Taxali has created two paintings, “French” and “Fry” for the “Know” exhibition. Gary describes, “These are personal paintings which are an extension of a series of shows over the last few years about the theme of lunch counters and diners. I see them as icons of the fast food industry.” For a peek at more of Gary’s sculpts, paintings and mixed media pieces look to www.garytaxali.com


Erik Mark Sandberg is a Los Angeles based artist who constructs complex narratives out of bits of digital bytes, painted surface, print making techniques and geometric scrawl. Erik’s unique style and oversized canvas has earned him multiple opportunities to exhibit his work. Erik’s cyanotype with acrylic, silkscreen and India ink is entitled, “Just Leaving Evansville.” For more information on Erik, please check out www.eriksandberg.net


The “Fallen Series : Acquisition,” by Kathie Olivas is a oil on wood painting that continues her celebration of a post apocalyptic universe filled with her mutant children. Kathie draws you in with her rich, seductive color and chillike tropes only to leave you mystified and perturbed by her disturbing fantasies. Visit www.miserychildren.com and enjoy more of Kathie’s paintings and her upcoming book release, “Ghosts and Martyrs.”


Jonathan Viner is a Brooklyn, based artist, who lends his brush to the sinister. Jonathan paints mysteries, and like a savory piece of fiction, his paintings plunge the viewer into the center of a conspiracy in process. Jonathan’s piece is a sketch that will be offered in concert with his book, “A Tranquil Aftermath.” To see more of Jonathan’s work visit, www.viner.biz


Cynthia von Buhler’s enigmatic paintings impart their meaning through symbol, design, and narrative. Her surreal three-dimensional works blend Renaissance portraiture and messianic figures with natural objects. In von Buhler’s art, butterflies, snakes, birds, and plants are set into cages, boxes, and peepholes to serve as metaphors for the human condition. The layered gouache paintings and their performance accoutrements are both poignant and mischievous. Her website, www.cynthiavonbuhler.com is akin to a trip down an ornate rabbit hole. "My Friend Dora Gray Has Mona Lisa Eyes" on display in the KNOW exhibit, although 2-D, is also interactive—“No matter how you look at ‘Dora Gray’ her eyes will move and look away from you.”


Tommii Lim’s paintings capture the Urban American mythic through the eyes of a “minority” race dealing with social, cultural and political challenges. Tommii often uses figures with masks or unidentifiable faces as a symbol of the silent majority in America. Tommii Lim’s latest mixed media piece, “Make Hype, Not Love,” is about personal frustrations when exposed to the overwhelming importance of commercialized “hype” over “substance” in our society. You can check updates for Tommii Lim’s work and events at www.tommiilim.blogspot.com


Luke Chueh's (pronounced CHU), “Shit Ball” is a 8” x 8” acrylic and ink painting that is a continuation of his animal character series. Employing minimal color schemes, simple animal characters, and a seemingly endless list of ill-fated situations, Chueh stylistically balances cute with brute, walking the fine line between comedy and tragedy. You can see more of Luke’s work at www.lukechueh.com


Tim Hussey’s mixed media on paper painting is entitled “Intent.” Tim describes, “Progressively my imagery is pairing down, editing and editing, knowing that nothing will be the perfect ending. Faces, postures and objects become less recognizable as the need for answers dissipates. To capture the truth is an endless swim against the river without a limb in sight, and endlessly I’ll work to display my own.” You can see more of Tim’s painted works at www.zeitgeist-art.com

Know Artists : Part Four

The following is the fourth installment for the upcoming “Know” art exhibition to be held in Miami this December. The exhibition celebrates emerging artists from around the country and Canada. Check out the complete listing in earlier posts. Feel free to contact me if you are interested in any of the pieces or would like to obtain more information on any of the featured artists.


Painter, illustrator and author Mark Todd took his first creative cues from comic books and Star Wars: worlds of inventive fantasy that still inform his art. His latest work involves intense scrutiny and alteration of classic comic covers from “Fantastic Four,” “X-Men,” “Iron Man,” “Spiderman” and other series, including the work of legendary illustrators like Jack Kirby. “I love the type, the heavy shadows, the colors and the way they seemed to use very inch of the page,” says Todd. “I sit and study them, and my brush reconstructs them.” Todd is referencing the past, waxing nostalgic about it and simultaneously lending his own post-modern sensibility to it, employing a limited palette, repetition, distortion and mixed media materials including spray paint, cel-vinyl, glossy varnishes and dusty stains. The pieces appear as prized objects; tablets encoded with civilization’s most iconic collective wisdom. Check out "Power Spider-Man" and all of Mark's imaginative works at www.marktoddillustration.com


Esther Pearl Watson grew up in the Dallas/Fort Worth area. Her family moved often, since her father's hobby of building huge flying saucers out of scrap metal and car engines didn't always sit well with the neighbors. Esther's pieces are often overtly narrative, clear but mysterious scenes of houses or figures ornamented with snippets of prose telling just enough to get the viewer's own imagination engaged, wanting to know more. Some are about family, some about places, all have a rich interior life. Her works without words are just as suggestive of story, also exerting a deep emotional pull. Esther's painted works, including her latest,"Comanche, TX," can be seen at www.estherwatson.com


At first glance, Jordin Isip’s “Know” painting looks as if he utilized thread or colored string in the central figure. Jordin reports, “It’s not thread, these “tangles,” (as I call them), are made of tiny pieces of cut paper, glued together using tweezers, with a semi-steady hand and half-bottle of patience. Sometimes it’s therapeutic—like meditation, other times—just frustrating, maddening...” Jordin is a great promoter of a huge range of artistic talent. Check out his work at www.jordinisip.com


Daniel Hyun Lim is a New York based artist who looks to television pop culture, the curiosity of children and the smiles of good friends for inspiration. Daniel’s latest color pencil, pastel, acrylic and gouache painting entitled, “Secret Snow,” is part of his ongoing portrait series. You can experience the prolific painting talents of Daniel at www.daniel-lim.com


Jody Hewgill enjoys creating paintings that celebrates the heroine. “My aim is to create narrative images that express elements of theatric mystery that often focus on female characters: femme fatales, superheroes from comic books, archetypal goddesses, and even the Bride of Frankenstein. Jody’s "Notorious" reveals a darker side to the fairy-tale character Little Red Riding Hood, depicting her as an emboldened, fearless heroine. Check out more of Jody’s paintings at www.jodyhewgillart.com


“Red Line” by Amanda Wachob is 8” x 8” oil on canvas painting that expands her continued interest in gender roles, body language and issues of racial identity. Amanda sifts through mid 20th century Americana for inspiration and draws on the public by day as a tattoo artist. Visit www.amandawachob.com and check out Amanda’s nostalgic mix of fashion, advertising and sexuality.


Brent Harada typically celebrates images like angry drunken wolves, frustrated batmen, concrete shoes and talking pyramids, only the most stoic and troubled individuals will be able to resist chuckling. Brent’s latest ink on paper drawing is entitled, “My Future Portrait,” which captures his likeness at the core. Check out more of Brent’s work at www.tenderlovingempire.com


Jason D’Aquino is a graphite pencil wizard who loves to create fairy-tale and nursery rhyme inspired images. Jason’s latest drawing is entitled, “Education,” captures his dialogue—juxtaposing old surfaces with icons of ole and added illustrative musings. You can see more of Jason’s works at www.jasondaquino.com


"Spanish Town," by Brandt Peters, celebrates his love of character development and vintage animation. Peters' influences are derived from early depression era cartoons, pin ups, spirit photography, circus side show performers and smiley, yet deviant skeletons. Check out more of Brandt's characters and paintings at www.brandtpeters.com


Keith Warren Greiman is an artist who lives in Philadelphia, Keith’s latest mixed media painting, “Mean Streets,”
celebrates his love of fantastical beasts and other worldly animals with human qualities. Keith celebrates the human condition through images of mystical lands, walking cats, and sword play.

Know Artists : Part Three

This is your third installment and preview for the “Know” art exhibition at the Art Now Fair to be held at this year’s Art Basel Art Fair in Miami Beach, Florida. As you have noticed, there is an eclectic mix of style, subject matter and technique represented among the 45 featured artists. All of the featured artworks are 8” x 8” and will be hung, salon style, on one large wall. The “Know” exhibition will be featured in booth No. 215 at the Claremont Hotel from Thursday December 6th through Sunday December 9th. Enjoy another preview.


Luke Ramsey’s mixed media collage entitled, “Wizared and the Dessert Leopard,” is comprised of India inks, water colors on paper and found materials. Luke is a constant collaborator and continuously exhibits his work with other members of the “Islands Fold” independent publishing collective. Luke has exhibited his work in California, New York, Canada and Sweden. You can collect Luke’s limited edition zines and comics by visiting www.islandsfold.com


Matt Haber celebrates the narrative tradition of cartons and comic books. Matt’s character-driven works and doll-like characters are small pawns in his constantly evolving storybook. Mr. Haber has worked as a Disney animator in the past and currently works for Fox animation studios, working experiences that has evolved his love for rich storytelling. You can see his latest painting, entitled, “Mask,” at www.glassesareshields.com


Robert Bellm works hard to produce art that responds to subject matter that calls out to him. Robert often looks to nature for his inspiration, especially orchids and birds. “Birds to me represent beauty and freedom. Freedom to soar…” Robert’s latest painting, entitled “It’s all I know,” is a direct compliment to his quote. See more of Robert’s work at www.scrambledmilk.com


Lola, is a Los Angeles based artist who has been exhibiting unconventional characters who celebrate whimsical oddity, often hidden behind masks. Lola’s paintings possess a cute, child-like quality at first glance. At closer inspection the characters seem to whisper back and forth to each other, exchanging a polite, yet sinister confrontation. Or maybe “sweet nothings?” Lola is an artist who constantly challenges her subject matter before each exhibition, looking to further her love for narrative and storytelling. Learn more about Lola and her latest painting, “The most amazing find” at www.lolastrangeart.com


Jen Lobo has an affinity for all things feathered, furry or full of scales. Jen’s paintings further her personal relationship with the natural and how it parallels back to human kind. Jen works hard to document natural history and entomology and celebrates both in her latest oil on panel painting entitled, “Peace.” You can see more of Jen’s nature series at www.jenlobo.com


Warren Dykeman is one part graphic narrative and one part typographic enthusiast. Warren’s paintings combine the urban landscape and look to capture industrial textures, street and graph painting and components of advertising. Warren is trained as a graphic artist and finds his sketchbook as his personal release for his creative inspiration. To learn more about Warren Dykeman’s work, check out www.warrendykeman.com and see his latest “Chainsaw Brandish.”


Travis Lampe’s lates acrylic on wood painting entitled, “Surprise Paralysis Ray Hatch,” is a celebration of his love for dark comics and old cartoons. Travis continually conjures up his own blend of 30s cartoon boom with a creepy crawly twist. Learn more about Travis Lampe’s innovative characters at www.travislampe.com


Jason Murphy is part of the Art Dorks Collective, a group of artists who work together to actively define the visual narrative arts movement. Jason’s latest mixed media painting, entitled, “Job Site,” is a celebration of the harmonic balance between horror and serenity. Check out more of Jason’s work at www.artdorks.com


Pamela Jaeger’s latest acrylic on wood panel painting, entitled “Intuition,” celebrates the pages of her personal journal. Based in San Diego, Pamela often looks to her journal entries and fashion books of old to assist in the development of her characters. Her painting process begins with a lyrical assortment of words and phrases, until finally they lyrically define Pamela’s secrets of the past. If you search Pamela Jaeger’s name on google you will see more of her lifestory unfold.

Know Artists : Part Two

The following is the second introduction of artists featured in an art exhibition entitled, “Know,” to be held at this year’s Art Now Fair. I (Mark Murphy) hope to introduce you to emerging artists you should take a close look at, as well as furthering my personal mission of archiving living artists. More will be posted soon, see you December 6 – 9 at Art Basel in Miami. Please contact murphy@murphydesign.com if you wish to be added to the acquisitions list or have any questions. Thank you for reading.


James Kirkpatrick, aka Thesis, is a modern day painter who scratches and carves away at the built up surfaces he creates out of paper, encaustic and acrylic paints. James often describes his work as being born out of the collision of street and fine art scenes. James is an emerging artist who works in the “Character-based” art movement, as seen in his latest painting entitled, “the secret two together.” Check out more of James/Thesis at www.studio21.ca


Cathie Bleck works on clayboard, building up the surface with a thick coating of Kaolin clay, gold leaf and ink pigments. Once Cathie’s image making surface is prepared, she scratches at her organic canvas with razor sharp tools with a fluid motion. The result can be seen in her latest scratchboard painting, entitled “Caring for the Phoenix.” Cathie’s composition exposes small moments that move you through the final piece, allowing a chance to decode the overall meaning of her artwork. Learn more about Cathie at www.cathiebleck.com


Chris Pyle created a acrylic on wood panel painting entitled, “Ring Toss.” Chris is an editorial artist who delivers a whimsical social commentary in his brightly colored world of distinct characters. Chris has exhibited in traveling shows for Blab Magazine, Heaven and Hell and Dialogue. To see more of Chris’s work please check out www.chrispyleillustration.com


Peter Taylor’s graphic lines move you through his paintings in a fluid direction. Peter is a virtuoso when it comes to drawing circular forms that dispel ancient secrets of the Budha and tranquil lifestyle. Peter’s latest mixed media drawing, “Magic Man,” invites you in with a friendly “ohm.” See more of Peter’s stylized works and patterns at www.handmadefeat.com


Chris Ryniak has been exhibited in galleries throughout the US including: Miami, Los Angeles, New York and Germany. Chris sculpts objects, as well as paints other worldly creatures that may have been inspired by late night horror and Sci-Fi movie theatre. Chris’s latest painting, “Two Great Houses,” acrylic on wood, can be seen in Miami and his website www.bigistudio.com


Johnny Yanok is one part character designer, on part toy designer and one part packager. Johnny’s creative output is colorful and fun, a careful balance of Mary Blaire and Jim Flora paintings from the 40s through 60s. Johnny’s latest painting is entitled, “Tab is the Best Soda of All Time, acrylic on panel. Check out all of Johnny Yanok’s work at www.johnnyyanok.com


Keith Shore’s latest painting, “An Autumn Scrimmage,” is a companion piece to “summer in the Pumpkin Fields” featured in the Green Art Exhibition in Santa Monica this November. Keith continually produces pieces for McSweeny’s, MTV and Listen Skateboards while prolifically producing inspired art work for group shows and exhibitions. Check out more of Keith’s work at www.keithshore.com


Matt Stallings created, “First in Flight,” is a look into the opportunity to know more about the unknown. How was it that we decided a monkey should be the first in space, after all? Matt continues his exploration of the human condition, often allowing his subjects to answer to the oddities of life. To see more of Matt’s work, please visit www.mattstallings.com


Dave Chung, aka “the Chung” has been painting an ongoing series about the design, modern, yet spacey, look about women’s sex toys. “the Chung” describes them as “Nubs and flippers coming out of every which way! They’re nuts to the balls! So then I started thinking, What if these really were little alien dudes? What sort of crazy adventures would they have? I’m sure they would have fun. To see his latest, “The Tickle Police: Goo Gun,” please visit www.thechung.com

Know Artists : Part One

Art Basel and all of its related fairs, including the Art Now Fair, is the largest art fair in the United States. The Murphy Design showroom will be exhibiting over 50 8” x 8” paintings by emerging artists from around the world. This exhibition entitled, “KNOW,” is an art collection which looks to define timely themes while presenting a variety of styles. The following blog entries look to introduce you to all of the artists participating in this year’s Art Now Fair in Miami to be held at the Claremont Hotel, Number 215, 17 Collins Avenue at 17th Street, Miami Beach, Florida.

If you are interested in acquiring any of the listed art works, please contact me murphy@murphydesign.com. All art work is 8” x 8,” unless noticed. Featured fine artists include:



Anthony Lister was raised on American TV while growing up in Brisbane, Australia. The result is a blending of the dark realities of modern culture with superheroes and pop culture cartoon images. Anthony feels as if he is in a perpetual state of accepting the obvious as a valid source for his inspiration. Anthony continually exhibits his work throughout Australia, New York, California and has recently created pieces for the KNOW show at the Art Now Fair. “Tales of White Trash Prophecy” and “Spider What Punk” compliment Anthony Lister’s visual narrative voice for superhero comics and society’s misguided circumstance.


“The Harlot,” by Marc Burckhardt is an acrylic and oil painting on wood panel is an inspired reflection about the Renaissance and modern circumstance. Marc, who spent much time in Germany, growing up, is heavily influenced by the dark visions of Flemish painters and German folklore. Marc has been featured in Juxtapoz and Communication Arts. See more of Marc’s detailed paintings at www.marcart.net


“Honeybee,” by Amy Crehore is an oil painting dedicated to her love for the Pierrots and monkeys. “Aesthetically, the Pierrot is my favorite clown, with his pointy dunce-type hat and simple pajama-type costume. He’s a lovable fool who represents all of us. He’s sad and happy at the same time, as we all are.” “’Honeybee’ has all of my familiar characters: the little pierrot, the blues gal, the cat(s), the monkey and a flower - together in an outdoor circus-like setting. Be Careful of the sweet honeybee sting.” For more information about Amy, please visit www.amycrehore.com


The “Know” art exhibition will also feature an oil on linen panel, 8 ¾” x 8 ¾” painting entitled, “Green Snake Stumble.” This painting is a continuation of Amy’s “Blues Gal” series of paintings which is often the talk and artistic pick featured on www.boingboing.net.


Kim Scott loves to tell stories with characters inspired by monster and Sci-fi movies. And, as a result, Kim continues her raw steak series with, “the Treasure Box,” an 8” x 8” oil on panel painting. Kim’s paintings can be found in several collections, including the Crocker Art Museum. Kim’s work has been on exhibit since the early 1980s and she has exhibited with Mark Ryden, Alex Grey and Todd Schorr to name a few.



Andrew Foster created two oil on linen over panel pieces entitled, “ Flower Patch Girl” and “Bad Kitty.” Andrew’s subject matter is a constant evolution of inspired story telling through satirical renderings of the All-American myth. Many of Andrew’s characters are uncouth pinups, aging superheroes and the rumpled business man. Andrew’s work is currently featured in the Green Art Exhibition



Joel Nakamura is a modern folk artist who actively paints in Santa Fe, NM. Joel’s has created 4 inspired narrative paintings on tin, filled with intense color and whimsical imagery. “Since the village has gone global,” Joel paints to modern mythological themes that borrow from the ancients while celebrating the human condition. This can be seen in his “Know” series of paintings, “Sentient Protozoa,” “ Teratoid Muse,” “Access” and “Phyrinidae.” Experience more of Joel’s paintings at www.joelnakamura.com


William Buzzell is a Philadelphia based artist who is constantly influenced by social issues and history. Will’s latest painting, “Self Portrait as a Townie,” is an acrylic and ink painting on wood that invites close inspection and is love for library books. Will has been exhibiting since 2001 and is an emerging visual artist who continually evolves, while provoking the viewer to look deeper. More work can be seen at www.williambuzzell.com


Damian Weinkrantz is a Philadelphia based artist/curator who has created and ink on watercolor drawing, entitled “Maybe, Maybe Not.” “The work I’ve been making within this past year has dealt with the clash of optimism against the harsh realties of inevitable decay. Hopes, aspirations and fantasies are continually balanced out with a healthy dose of pessimism, so in this case? Things will probably end up in the ‘maybe not’ category.” Check out more of Damian’s work at www.space1026.com

Know Exhibit : Dec 6 - Dec 9

Art Basel in Miami is the nation's largest art event featuring a small grouping of other art fairs. Mark Murphy will be exhibiting this year at the Art Now Fair (booth 215) promoting a new group show entitled, "Know."

andrew foster, william buzzell, amy crehore

O V E R V I E W
KNOW looks to introduce the fans of art and culture to more that 50 major works, 8" x 8" in size with various social and political themes. Curator and publisher, Mark Murphy will be on hand to introduce you to the artists who are featured in "Know" and who actively celebrate the fine art of visual story telling.

All art work is available for acquisition and features the inspired talent of Anthony Lister, Jeff Soto, Greg Craola Simkins, Marc Burkchardt, Lola, and 44 other inspired artists. In addition, limited edition monographs will be available for Cathie Bleck, Martha Rich, Mark Murphy, Bob Dob, Jeff Soto and Jonathan Viner. Not to mention, high-quality art book editions that celebrate the today’s visual arts narrative moment.

lola, travis lampe, kim scott

F E A T U R I N G
Robert Bellm + Cathie Bleck + Marc Burckhardt + Cynthia von Buhler + William Buzzell + Luke Chueh + David Chung + Amy Crehore + Warren Dykeman + P-Jay Fidler + AJ Fosik + Keith Greiman + Matt Haber + Brent Harada + Ryan Heshka + Jordin Isip + James Kirkpatrick + Pamela Jaeger + Travis Lampe + Lola + Daniel Lim + Tommii Lim + Anthony Lister + Jen Lobo + Jason Murphy + Mark Murphy + Joel Nakamura + Kathie Olivas + Brandt Peters + Chris Pyle + Jermain Rogers + Chris Ryniak + Erik Sandberg + Greg Simkins/Craola + Kim Scott + Keith Shore + Jeff Soto + Matt Stallings + Peter Taylor + Mark Todd + Jonathan Viner + Amanda Wachob + Esther Pearl Watson + Damien Weinkrantz + Gord Wiebe + John Yanok

I N F O R M A T I O N
KNOW : Art Exhibition
Curated by Mark Murphy

Art Now Fair : Art Basel Miami
Murphy Design : Booth No. 215
December 6 – 9 : 2007
Thursday – Saturday : 10 am - 8 pm : Sunday : 10 am – 6 pm

Claremont Hotel : 1700 Collins Avenue at 17th Street : Miami Beach

www.murphydesign1.blogspot.com
www.murphydesign.com
www.artnowfair.com

anthony lister, ryan heshka, marc burckhardt

Please contact murphy@murphydesign.com to be added to the waiting list for painting acquisitions

Sponsored by Murphy Design

Green Art Exhibit : Opening

Bergamont Station in Santa Monica proved to be a perfect setting for the Green Art Exhibition this past Saturday. More than 1500 art patrons visited the halls of the Robert Berman Gallery and enjoyed 50 imaginative paintings.


As art patrons entered the C2 space, they were greeted with a large Green exhibition logo and Marc Burckhardt’s "untitled" Green painting. And before they knew what hit them, two artwork filled rooms delivered a large variety of style, color and interpretation to support exhibition’s theme.


Many people walked through the show together, pointing out their favorites while asking, “How could one gallery setting offer so many unseen talents?” Of course, there was no answer, except for a silent “Thanks!” going on through my head, a shout out to the 44 artists who created major art works for this exhibition.


As waves and waves of people came and left the gallery, the Modlins pulled many of them back in, as they rocked the house with their formula for great rock and roll. The Modlins, are great pals, who have delivered choice music for me before. They definitely have an inviting persona that gets people moving.


Definitely check out The Modlins and give them a listen, as they are quickly emerging. Look out for them at a local concert club near you.




Many artists traveled to the show including: Kim Scott, Cathie Bleck, Robert Hardgrave, Amy Crehore, Brandt Peters and Kathie Olivas. California artists traveled from Sacramento, San Francisco, Pasadena, Riverside, Hermosa Beach and San Diego including: Pamela Jaeger, Bob Dob, Nathan Ota, Martha Rich, Matt Stallings, the Chung, Jeff Soto, Andrew Foster, David Choong Lee, Luke Chueh, Kevin Christy, P-Jay Fidler and Jen Lobo. This kid really appreciated the community support, the many miles traveled and the great times. Thanks to all of the artists who contributed their inspired talents and made this night a memorable experience for so many.


Green will be on exhibit until December 22 at the Robert Berman Gallery in Santa Monica. Tell your pals, pack your family and head on over. If you wish to acquire any of the pieces or learn more about the show, please contact me at murphy@murphydesign.com and I will be happy to help you out. Robert Berman is also available for acquisitions by contacting Mia at the gallery, mia@anet.net


Kind thanks to Robert Berman, Josh, Mia and the entire Berman Gallery Crew for all of their hard work to make this event possible. Please check out Ellwood T. Risk's show, "Collateral Damage" on exhibit until December 22 at the D5 Robert Berman Gallery space. Ellwood’s show rocks. For more information check out www.robertbermangallery.com

Green Artists : Part Five

The GREEN art exhibition is set to open Saturday, November 17 at the Robert Berman Gallery in Santa Monica. This premier art event will feature many traveling artists and artists all around California. The Modlins will be performing from 9:30 to 10:15 and they are sure to rock Bergamot Station with their Beatlesque harmonies and clean sounds. Over 40 artists will be represented and you will not want to miss.


Bob Dob looks at the deviant side of human nature and sizes them up in his paintings. Chain smoking, cigar characters, Nintendo folk heroes and Bob’s love of film noire. Luey, Bob’s alter ego has found himself sculpted into vinyl smoking and sipping on milk out of the carton. Bob has created a 9” x 12” oil on canvas painting entitled, “Block Head.” Check out more of his inspired collection at www.bobdob.com


Kevin Christy creates fantastical landscapes where his subjects drift in and out of pop cultural dream sequences. Kevin’s latest mixed media work on paper, “what’s left,” is a 24” x 36” charged look at environmental lack and circumstance. For the latest and greatest, check into www.kevinsayshi.com or check out his latest film role at www.imdb.com


Justin Wood is a digital assembler of bits and pieces of photographs, Victorian patterns, scrap papers and painted pieces. Justin’s latest, “drifting,” is a 24” x 36” digital print, 1 of 1 edition. You can find more of Justin’s work at www.singlecell.to


Martha Rich and Esther Pearl Watson teamed up to deliver two collaborative paintings, “Beaver for a Better Tomorrow” and “Sustainability Beaver 24/7.” Both of these pieces are mixed media on paper and feature two studio mates exploring the sustainability of GREEN and what it might mean in the mind of a constructivist beaver. Check out www.martharich.com and www.estherwatson.com for more information.


Matt Stallings delivers, “thanks for the holiday,” a 24” x 24” acrylic and mixed media on wood panel painting. Matt celebrates American sheik, where he dares you to “Label Me.” Pop culture California never looked so good, where those who aspire to greatness might expose their most genuine side, braces with a harness and all. You can see more of Matt’s work at www.mattstallings.com


P-Jay Fidler, is a Los Angeles based artist who created, “Three Bodies and a Taste of the Trinity,” a 18” x 26” mixed media on wood painting. P-Jay’s work is a dream sequence filled with adolescent archetypes and the darker side of the human condition. You can see more of P-Jay’s paintings at www.pjfidler.com

Images to come :


Luke Chueh’s (pronounced CHU), “Root Down” is a 24” x 36” acrylic and ink painting that is a continuation of his animal character series. Employing minimal color schemes, simple animal characters, and a seemingly endless list of ill-fated situations, Chueh stylistically balances cute with brute, walking the fine line between comedy and tragedy. You can see more of Luke’s work at www.lukechueh.com


David Choong Lee created “Dark Green,” a 24” x 36” mixed media painting on wood. David is originally from Seoul, and currently paints in San Francisco where he is known for his inspired homeless portraits. David has published five books on his urban art paintings and continues to explore urban fashion and handbag design. You can discover more about David by visiting www.davidchoonglee.com


Jen Lobo, latest oil on wood, “Trespass,” is part Herman Melville folklore and part human expansion gone astray. Jen currently lives and works in Pasadena, where she enjoys fluttering swallowtail butterflies and flickering hummingbirds from her studio window. For more of Jen’s work, please visit www. jenlobo.com

Rich Jacobs has created a 3 panel, mixed media piece entitled “please think about the bigger picture.” Rich is an internationally acclaimed artist who has exhibited throughout the United States, Europe, Australia, New Zealand and Japan. He is also the curator of Move, an ongoing series of group art exhibitions that originally started as a homemade art / music 'zine and record label in the early 1990s. You will have to utilize Google to find out more information, but more than likely he has an installation at a local gallery near you.

Green Artists : Part Four

The GREEN art exhibition is only a couple more days away. I am excited to share more artists and their work with all of you. If you are interested in acquiring any of the featured artwork, feel free to contact Mark Murphy or the Robert Berman Art Gallery. Kind thanks for looking at all of the featured artists and their artwork.


Andrew is constantly inspired by nature and man-made systems of control and corruption. His latest painting, “the River,” is a 24” x 36” acrylic painting on maple. If you are looking to discover a wide range of story book characters gone bad, check out www.howdypardner.com


Andrew Foster is a Los Angeles based artist and inspired art instructor who has created “Two Girls on a Windy Day,” a 24” x 36” oil on linen over panel painting. Andrew’s subject matter is a potent mixture of social commentary, American mythology, sensuality and whimsy. Check out more of Andrew’s work by searching him out on Google.


AJ Fosik”s, “All That Predeterminism,” is an enamel on wood panel painting— one part cryptic puzzle and one part battle zone. AJ is a master assembler of bits of wood, color and glass to create beasts of war, enraged by life’s unfortunate circumstance. AJ’s work is sculptural in nature, as geometric shapes, and flowing line patterns entrance the viewer. Check AJ out on the web, just Google his name.


Sas Christian, based in South Florida, created “The Artist’s Parsley Patch.” This unique 24” x 24,” oil on linen painting captures a moment while staring into a patch of parsley in her backyard garden. This swallowtail caterpillar has encouraged Sas to transform her backyard into a natural habitat for local insects, birds and mammals. “I hope that my work can connect with people on different levels. I’m trying to harness a single moment in time, an emotional response, seemingly insignificant gesture that can mean so much.” Check out more about Sas, her work at www.hotboxdesigns.com


Jordin Isip, is a Brooklyn based artist who has created a mixed media on panel painting entitled, “Bulol Adrift.” Jordin has exhibited in galleries throughout the United States. Internationally his work has shown at the Galleria Comunale D’Arte Moderna E Contemporanea (Rome) and the Musee D’histoire Contemporaine (Paris). Jordin is a great promoter of inspired artistic talent and he currently teaches at Parsons and Pratt Institute. Check out his work at www.jordinisip.com


Pamela Jaeger’s, “Creeper of the woods,” is a 24” x 24,” acrylic on wood panel painting that celebrates her love of fashion and visual story telling. Based in San Diego, Pamela often looks to her journal entries and fashion books of old to assist in the development of her characters. Her painting process begins with a lyrical assortment of words, phrases and scrawl which can usually be found on the backs of her paintings. To find out more about Pamela please conduct a Google search. Don’t worry you will find her.


Christian Northeast is constantly re inventing and exploring visual techniques that communicate stories. Based in Toronto, Christian created an acrylic painting on board entitled, “All You Can Eat,” which matches up with his subtle humor about life and the human condition. “Well maybe not so subtle,” Christian is an inspired artist who sets the bar while creating editorialized artwork. See more at www.christiannortheast.com


Dave Chung, AKA “the Chung!,” created a 36” x 24” acrylic on canvas painting, “When Nature Calls, Try to Give a Little Back to the Community.” Dave delivers a humorous side to his work and actively shows in galleries and publications world-wide including: Taiwan, Hong Kong, Japan, Germany, Greece and New Zealand. David lives in Los Angeles where you can visit him at www.thechung.com

Green Artists : Part Three

There will be more Green artwork displayed on this blog. Stay tuned :


Jeff Soto, based in Riverside, is a prolific painter who is affected deeply by environmental and political issues, as reflected in his body of work. Jeff’s latest painting, “It’s So Sad Daddy,” 24” x 24” acrylic on wood, is a delicate balance of drawing and painting. Jeff described his painting as a look into the future, wondering what it will be like in 30 years, when his daughter reaches her adult years and the possibility of raising a family of her own. Stay up to date with Jeff is up to by visiting www.jeffsoto.com (he has a great blog site too at http://jeffsotoart.blogspot.com/)


Cathie Bleck’s 24” x 36” painting is entitled, “Salvaging the Root.” Cathie describes, “At the center of life is renewal that inspires discovery as a result of the rough root of experience. The bird draws nourishment hovering just above the future and for one moment, harmony. On the left is the past, caverns that hold personal solitude, while entangling with personal history. On the right hangs the enduring leaf of individual spirit, defining moments that require imagination, reverence and beauty.” Cathie is currently preparing for her first museum shows at the New Britain Museum of American Art and The Butler Institute of American Art in 2008, visit www.cathiebleck.com for more information.


Kathie Olivas, is a prolific painter and sculptor of a body of work, entitled “Misery Children.” Kathie’s large assemblage is focused on the constant social desire to connect to all things “cute.” Kathie raises the question, “What if all cute things are really up to something sinister?” Kathie’s piece, “The Revisionists,” is 24” x 36” oil on canvas. Visit Kathie at www.miserychildren.com


Brandt Peters, “Valley of the Tinbots,” is 24” x 36” oil on canvas in what he describes as a collection of sideshow icons. Each icon represents characters that Brandt sculpts for toys and animated cartoons. “We are all misfits; hiding behind animated personas, odd and beautifully unusual.” Check out more of Brandt’s work at www.brandtpeters.com


Robert Hardgrave’s, “Fabric” is a flowing tapestry of hidden visuals that compliment his concept of green. A self-developed artist in Seattle, Robert creates work both highly intricate and abundant with personal symbols. Inspired by experiences from disease and recovery, his paintings and drawings reflect ideas about re incarnation, the richness of life beyond death and discovering the many hidden layers of existence. Check out Robert’s work at www.farmerbobsfarm.com



Mark Murphy’s scribbles are a continuous journey exploring how micro organisms teamed up with mother nature to grant human existence. All living things have eyes that can see human inadequacies and consistent foul ups. Mark will feature six different pieces, black ink on antique paper taken from a fur trapper’s journal. For more information on Mark, check out www.murphydesign.com


“Prime Real Estate” by Amanda Wachob is a 24” x 32” oil on canvas painting that celebrates over ten years of exhibiting. Originally from Buffalo, NY, Amanda combines sexually charged images of empowered women, Americana and nostalgic fashion images. You can see more of Amanda’s work at www.amandawachob.com


Gary Taxali’s latest, “Nose,” is a mixed media piece painted on the back of an aluminum street sign. Gary is a great assembler of Japanese, Indian and weirdo deluxe packaging that feature the human condition with a twist. Based in Toronto, Gary recently created a 5’ plaster and acrylic sculpture, titled “Artist of the Year” for his exhibition “Last Year’s Winner.” For a peek at more of Gary’s sculpts, paintings and mixed media pieces refer to www.garytaxali.com


Jason D’Aquino is an artist that loves to create pieces 1” x 1” in size on the backs of matchbook covers and small found objects. He is a pencil wizard, as he loves to explore political subjects. Jason’s latest, is far from small, 24” x 36” graphite on found/vintage paper, entitled “Tree of Life.” Jason’s tiny match books can be enjoyed at www.jasondaquino.com, check him out.

Green Artists : Part Two

The following is part two of a continuing series, celebrating inspired paintings featured in the GREEN exhibition, curated by Mark Murphy. Contact the gallery if you would like to find out more information.


Deja Vu Waltz," by Amy Crehore is painted in oils on stretched linen, 24” x 24” in a custom carved frame. Amy’s work has been featured in many art galleries coast to coast, as well as the hip pages of BLAB magazine. You should check out more of her work at www.amycrehore.com


Jordan Awan is a Brooklyn based artist who created “I Feel Myself in Bloom.” Jordan describes his cardinal subjects as two sources: the "tall tales" of the early 20th century and the "hippie" movement of the 1960's. While these two subjects may seem disparate, they are both distinct and pervasive strains of American folklore that have come to be cultural cornerstones of America's national identity. While both are to be understood as a total embracing of American freedom, one hinges on man's superiority and dominance over nature. Check out more of his works at www.jordanawan.com


Keith Shore is living in Jersey and painting, “Summer in the Pumpkin Fields.” Keith is a prolific painter where ears on his subjects are optional and bare chests may show up on his latest skate decks or Ts. Check him out at the Art Now Fair, Art Basel in Miami or right here at www.keithshore.com


Louie Cordero’s latest painting is being delivered from Manila, Philippines where he actively paints, composes music and sculpts. Louie’s influences include zombies, 60s and 70s graphics, Big Daddy Roth and images found in health and sciences. You will have to Google search away, but don’t worry you will find plenty.


Damon Soule’s latest creation, “In defense of Dystopia,” is a mixed media, 21” x 22” painting. Damon’s paintings are fantastical assemblages of graffiti and paint where the balance of shape and form are spread edge to edge over his painting surface. Check out his work at www.damonsoule.com


Douglas Fraser is an inspired painter who might be considered a “Comic Book Social Realist.” After growing up in Alberta, Douglas is fascinated by all things mechanical, as reflected in his graphic novel, “Mort Grim.” Doug’s latest painting, “For Want of Green,” is a 24” x 24” alkyd on canvas with the sides metal leafed. Check out more of Doug’s work at www.fraserart.com


Tim Hussey is a fine art painter based in Charleston, SC. After 15 years working in editorial design and illustration, Tim has focused his career on fine art painting, where he has created an emotionally charged spin on the concept of over consumption and those who are anti-green in his painting, “Dipshit Lemonade.” See more of Tim’s work at www.husseyart.com


Christopher Mostyn, is an artist based in Missouri who loves art zines, monsters and life in general. His pen and ink drawing, “Grab da girl,” is a testament to how his images make Christopher feel like the process of mating Jerry Fallwell with Leonard Nemoy. You can see more of his work at www.artdorks.com

Green Artists : Part One

In preparation for the upcoming Green Exhibition, Saturday, 11/17/07, I thought you might want to know a little about each of the many artists participating in the show. I will do my best to archive everyone who is participating in this show in subsequent listings. If you are interested in collecting any of the art works, please contact the gallery.


Scott Musgrove is the creator and producer of the animated series, Fat Dog Mendoza, aired in over 50 countries. Scott’s paintings work hard to preserve prehistoric make-believe, made up of lush configurations of organic fauna and grinning teeth of mischievous beasts. Check out more at www.scottmusgrove.com


Kim Scott loves to tell stories with strange characters who occupy surrealistic environments. Kim defines her piece, "Symbios," the protagonist is a raw steak, who meets eye to eye with the Green Goddess and her six angelic minions. “What is my place in nature? What does it feel like when I finally realize we are one and the same? A piece of meat, a drop of water, a dewey leaf, the illusion of separation? Symbios.”


Jody Hewgill is a painter based in Toronto. Jody’s painting, “the Mad Pantheist” is a 24” x 36” acrylic on panel, explores the concept of nature worship inspired by the otherworldly moss that grows in the forests around her cottage in Northern Ontario. Jody’s paintings are currently touring Italy in a group show titled "le Favolose Matite Colorate nel Mondo," and can be found in the private collections of Carol Burnett and Rolling Stone publisher Jann Wenner. Check out www.jodyhewgillart.com


Joel Nakamura is a Los Angeles native now painting in Santa Fe, NM. Joel’s piece is “Last Dream before Entropy,” a 24” x 24” metal canvas painted in polymers and resin. Joel is a modern myth maker who celebrates folk art with a urban edge that features characters trapped in a world of “sacred” retablos. See more of Joel’s work at www.joelnakamura.com


Nathan Ota is blazing a hot trail in the art market, and his latest, “Wishing on a Star,” (8.75” x 11.75”) is an inspirational capture of a star lit night. Nathan is a dedicated professor and inspired artist, check out more of his work at www.nathanota.com


Joseph Daniel Fiedler is a Berkley based artist who has created “In The Future All Monkeys Will Be Plastic.” In 2006 he began a series of paintings and mixed media works around the general theme of imperialism. Joseph wanted to weave a thread that incorporates the various issues, historical, personal and quirky. “I have been a vegetarian for well over thirty years. I find negligence and cruel treatment of animals repugnant. As imperialism evokes domination so too were animals dominated by force, brute strength and gross ignorance.” The recent murder of Mountain Gorillas in Africa is a case in point. Pollution, deforestation and habitat reduction have decimated untold thousands of species. Now, our fragile planet is threatened. Moral, agricultural and animal husbandry issues have a direct impact on sustainability, climate change and population growth. Joseph asks, “Is this a manifestation of animal blowback?” See more at www.scaryjoey.com


Marc Burckhardt’s latest “untitled” acrylic and oil painting on wood panel is an inspired look at GREEN painted with artistic whimsy. Marc has painted for the late Johnny Cash, and is collected by Oprah, Ralph Lauren and the publisher of “Rolling Stone Magazine,” Jann Wenner. Check out more of his work at www.marcart.net


William Buzzell is a Philadelphia based artist who created, “Father Hennepin at Niagra Falls,” a 24” x 24” wood panel painted in acrylic. William is a great assembler of honest story telling, a folk tale teller, a reporter of American social issues of class and race. Check him out at space 1026, www.space1026.com