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Splash against my Hollow Bones…

Posted on August 22, 2012August 25, 2012 by thngmtc

 

 

http://thehollowbonesclique.tumblr.com/I had the opportunity to catch up with the mega friendly Patrick from The Hollow Bones Co.; a dope little label springing up from our Nations Capital. You’ve probably caught Steen Jones busting HBC caps and the tees popping up everywhere around Australia, proving that the size of the city you’re in ain’t shit when you’re chasing dreams.

T: What’s the story behind The Hollow Bones co. – How did it originate and what does it stand for?

HB: There’s not a whole lot to it really. It started out just with me doing the freelance design thing; I did a lot of work for musicians and other labels for some years before eventually speaking with a couple friends about starting something of our own. I always had the idea of eventually putting out something a bit more personal, whether it just be a couple t-shirts or something bigger but it wasn’t til I got together with some friends that I could actually hone my ideas, stop fucking about and actually do something. From there the three of us started up Hollow Bones with the idea of releasing good quality, aesthetically interesting and affordable garments. Nowadays it’s just me behind HBC but the ideology has stayed the same. I’m not out to change the game, just hoping to put out some interesting and well made gear that people wanna wear.

What was it like beginning a label in Canberra? Were there any struggles or obstacles to overcome getting off your feet?

It was surprisingly easy to get it off the ground initially, actually. Not that throwing pictures on t-shirts is some wild, unobtainable shit, but for years I’d been wanting to get my own thing going however I had set up all these obstacles in my head like “yo before you get this thing going you’ve got to do X, Y and Z otherwise you’ll fuck the whole thing up”. It was really just procrastination and nothing more. Canberra and all the brilliant people here were nothing but welcoming, whether it be my friends or just peeps I came across in my travels, people were always super down to help or drop some advice or whatever. It was real nice to see and experience. I think that’s what separates Canberra from a lot of other spots; while people here complain that it’s too small and everyone knows each other, that’s what I found really helped. There’s a huge sense of community and family here, even though the “streetwear” (seems like such a dirty word these days huh?) scene is fairly small here, if someone is trying to put out something honest and interesting, people pick up on that and offer what they can, even if it’s just a thumbs up and some support. It made all the difference and still does.



With so many clothing and street labels in the game, how does The Hollow Bones distinguish itself from the rest?

It’s just honest well made clothing, that’s all there is to it.

What does your work area look like? Do you have any weird rituals when creating a collection?

For the longest time my work area was pretty much any flat surface I could sit on. I never had a desk or proper set up, I just did all my shit on couches, benches, tables, in vans, in bed; when and wherever. Just recently though I’ve set myself up something proper, I’ve got a desk, a new record player and a shit load of old figurines. I’m a real grown ass boy now. I’m yet to see if a real set up will increase my productivity though, I might have a few too many Star Wars toys around to stay focused.

Where do your design concepts come from?

I have a pretty strange and eclectic range of interests, some contradictory to others but with these tees I’m just trying to get across a look and vibe that sort of encapsulates all the weird shit I’m into but also universal topics and ideas that mostly anyone can relate to in one way or another. It’s hard to say where the concepts come from exactly; most of my best thinking happens at the witching hour, late at night when I should be asleep but instead I’m watching a movie or bumping a song I’ve been stuck on for a week or even trying to picture what my upstairs neighbour looks like when they’re running Careless Whisper on loop at 2am. Any of those things could contribute to the ideas coming out or they could just be interesting side characters. I don’t even know.

And in terms of mentoring labels – who do you like and follow?

I try to keep an eye on as many labels and whatnot as possible, mostly because I just like seeing people put out new or exciting things. Plus I carry a pretty heavy t-shirt addiction of my own; recently I had to get rid of about 100 shirts and fleece because I just didn’t have the room for it all – my wardrobe is still busting out even after that. But as far as favourites go, I’d say top two would be Benny Gold coming out of San Francisco and Acapulco Gold on the East Coast of the US. With Benny Gold, not only are the designs also excellent but the philosophy behind it all and the way he runs that company is something I just love reading about and experiencing. While it’s a bigger company selling all over the world, everything about it still feels personal and friendly. I’ve got to say BG was a huge inspiration when trying to get my shit together for the first few t-shirts HB did. That company really makes you think you can achieve anything with the right attitude, I love that and I really love that they’re picking up and doing more gear with wider distro. A couple years ago you wouldn’t see BG gear anywhere around here, not in stores nor on backs, nowadays though I’m spotting tees or hats every week almost, it makes me real happy to see. Nothing better than seeing good people succeed.

As for Acapulco Gold though, their graphic tee game is just so on point. Every drop I find myself wanting everything they put out pretty much, they have such a clean, crisp and individual style. You spot an AG tee and you know it’s AG, I love that.

 

Is it just a hobby or is it a dream?

A little of both really, I’ve been dreaming about doing a label for years and definitely have large ideas for it all but at the same time I didn’t want to push it beyond my means either. So right now it’s kicking along at it’s own pace, I make time for it but it’s far from a full time thing at the moment. The dream would be to branch out into some cut and sew gear and broaden the reach of the product, perhaps open a retail space. But none of that can come without a little hard work so HB will keep plodding along, expanding a little with each run and we’ll see how it goes.

What have you learned from starting up your own business?

I’m constantly learning. There’s not much point in doing anything if you aren’t learning from it. The thing I’m figuring out at the moment is juggling my 9-5 work life, my personal life and the brand. It can be tricky as hell at times and I still haven’t nailed it, but if I ever work out the perfect balance I’ll let you know, haha.

Is there anyone you would love to work alongside or for in the future?

There are so many people around that I would love to work with in some capacity, even if it was just sitting in on them while they do their day to day. I’ve always operated on my own for the most part in my design work but I can really appreciate the combination of ideas and stories that comes with collaboration. I have a real thing for typography and well crafted text. There’s a sign-writer from Minneapolis that goes by the name Dusty Signs that I would love to work with one day. I have no idea what it would be for exactly but I constantly find myself going through his site and marvelling at how crisp and clean his lettering is and would love to work with him in some way in the future.

Some people a little closer to home that I really respect and admire however, are Malade from Newcastle, Ruler from Melbourne and my man Benny Chop from right here in Canberra; they’re all constantly putting out quality, no bullshit garments that get better every run, not to mention putting on some dope events and the like. I’d love to cook something up with any or all of them, I love seeing what they’re up to. Mad respect.

 

What is it that you love about clothing?

It’s an unspoken language. People say you shouldn’t judge a book by it’s cover but you can learn so much about someone by what they choose to wear and moreover, you can say so much about yourself without even having to open your mouth.

The past few years I’ve spent a fair bit of time traveling around the country for one reason or another and I always love that in an unfamiliar city you can just look at the people and sort of gauge what’s around you and if you’ll be able to click with the community at hand. It’s ridiculous how many people I’ve met and call friends now purely because we liked each others t-shirts. Having said that though there’s nothing saying I’ll see a dude rocking a Grand Scheme cap or something and suddenly we’ll be best mates, but as an example, the first time I visited Laced in Brisbane, I was wandering around the mall trying to find it and couldn’t figure out where I was going until I saw about 3 people in a row rocking Mishka, I followed the breadcrumbs up the stairs and voilà. It’s just little things like that, that I love about clothing, it says the unsaid.

Proudest moment so far?

I’m not sure if this counts as ‘proudest’ but the moment I was most stoked was receiving my first samples of caps earlier this year. I’ve been a fiend for headwear ever since I was a kid. I started collecting Starter caps when I was about 7 or 8 when my father first brought me home a Yankees cap from the US and it’s just grown ever since. So actually making my own was a really cool moment for me. My first lot of hats went really well also and received a lot of positive feedback which was awesome to hear. I’ve got more plans in the headwear department so I’m looking forward to seeing what people think of what I’ve got coming up.

Do you think the Government should offer incentives for home grown production of Australian labels?

Most definitely! I’m doing my best to keep HB local, using local Australian product and printing in Australia, which for some things isn’t easy but I think it’s very important to try and keep as much business here as possible. Supporting Australian business and small business in particular is vital to it growing and flourishing here. I think that if enough people show that we want to buy local as much as we can, a few more Government incentives helping Australian small business might pop up, particularly in the art and fashion world. Australians have proven we are quite adept at designing and producing well-rounded product capable of going international, take a look at artists like Meggs and labels like Grand Scheme, both doing really cool things abroad right now. Now I should say, I’m not saying there’s nothing now in the way of government financial help, there are definitely several grants and initiatives and whatnot to help kick off new businesses and young artists here which is awesome, but I think if people take a little more notice about what’s going on locally and not just what’s on the pages of Hypebeast and Karmaloop and shit, maybe government bodies will take note and some more interesting and exciting opportunities and incentives might present themselves.



What do you think is the most pressing issue in Australia at the moment?

Honestly I think it’s just local support. Obviously there are people out there keeping an eye on smaller labels and picking up their shit and that is so awesome. But for every one of them there’s about 10 who are only concerned about the new Supreme drop and what have you. And cool, everyone has their labels they love and all that, but there’s exciting shit going on right next door as well that I would love to see people hanging out for. It’s fair that the majority of what’s going on in the “streetwear” world is happening O/S and therefore people are more likely going to be able to find something that grabs them amongst the millions of tees and such kicking about out there, but that doesn’t mean we haven’t got shit pumping in Melbourne or Sydney or hell, even Canberra that say something. You’re probably more likely to find something a bit more reflective of you and related to you if you look locally as well. The thing a lot of people overlook about this industry is that it’s not just about pretty pictures slapped on garments or grabbing the tee that Kanye wore in some video, it’s about saying something about you, your community or your situation through garments. A lot can be said and done with a powerful message on a t-shirt and that message may just spread a little further with a little more local support.

Obviously your parents had a large influence on who you are today – what are some of the simplest things you learned from them?

On top of giving me a bit more of insight into the world outside of my circle and my immediate life they always told me to always work hard for something if it means anything to me. I’ve always had my hand in something artistic ever since I was small but I never did very well academically, I think without their support and example, I probably would’ve dropped it and would still be stuck in a shitty job at a hi-fi store right now. Something I believe is, while education is a brilliant tool and I’m not going to discourage anyone from studying, it’s not the be all end all of life. Just because you don’t have a piece of paper saying you’re a qualified filmmaker, doesn’t mean you can’t make films, just like I don’t have a piece of paper saying I’m not a qualified designer, but that hasn’t stopped me from working design for nearly 10 years. Often case people find their passion and joy well outside the walls of a school and I don’t want people thinking they can’t succeed just because they haven’t got the right documentation. Persistence and hardwork is what is important, with or without the necessary papers.

There is a photo of your father opposing conscription in the 1970’s on Hollow Bones’ Tumblr with a caption outlining that you should always fight for what you believe in.. What do you believe in and what would you fight for?

 Just the right to have your say. My father was on the run from the police basically for trying to express his beliefs in regard to the Vietnam war and Australia’s conscription laws and I think that’s bullshit. Everyone should have an opportunity to be heard by their peers, sure some of the shit some people might say could be whack as hell but that doesn’t mean they shouldn’t have the right to at least say it, some of the shit people could say might change lives too. Those inspirational photos with quotes over top you’re reblogging on tumblr aren’t just filler for your dash, that was somebody putting their beliefs out there and having their say which has now gone on to touch people generations later. Freedom of speech is incredibly important and while I’m fortunate enough to have grown up in a country where (for the most part) I have that right, there are so many places out there where people will be hunted and persecuted for questioning what’s going on around them and expressing themselves and that’s some bullshit right there.


What’s in store next for The Hollow Bones Co.?

Thing’s have been a little slow of late just because other things in my life have popped up, Hollow Bones was started with the intention of working at a pace comfortable with everything else going on in my life. But the engine is still pumping, I’ve got some gear I’m really siked on in the works right now that will be coming soon, a few tees, headwear and a bit of outwear also. I’m really happy with what’s coming up and I’m looking forward to getting it out. Keep your eyes on the Facebook and Tumblr for more news.

 

For more Hollow Bones goodness, hit their Website and Facebook.

 

Clothing, Fashion, Interviews, News   clothing, fashion, hollow bones, streetwear, the hollow bones co.

BJ’s for Everybody!

Posted on June 26, 2012June 26, 2012 by thngmtc

Firstly, I’d like to apologise to my This Life family for my lack of posts over the past few months, but my hiatus hasn’t been unproductive! I’ve enrolled in a writing course and have been getting some other projects underway in the mean time.. But I’ve finally managed to pull together a pretty balanced organisational structure so I can get shit done on all the platforms I’ve dedicated myself to so expect to see more activity from yours truly!

I had a quick chat with Kieran from Black July clothing – a GC based clothing company with simplicity and style. Some of you instagram folks may have come across the notorious #blackjuly posts but if not, I got the details on the scheme of things below!

T: What is the meaning behind Black July and what is it all about?



BJ: I wanted the company name to be really personal to me, so I grabbed my last name “Black”, and the month I was born in “July”, and threw them together. It just worked.

Buuuut did it ever occur to you what the acronym BJ stands for?

Many times, I get constantly reminded of what it stands for when new customers figure it out, and they ask the exact same question.



With so many other clothing and street-based labels out in the game, how do you think Black July distinguishes itself from the rest and what inspired you to start it?



My clothing company is based on greyscale items and the weird, not-so-perfect drawing style I have. I started the company because I was sick of trying to find casual clothes to wear that would fit the way I liked it.

Do you think Australian apparel differs from American-based apparel companies? How?

It definitely does, but the gap is closing each year. The internet helps me stay current on what people want around the world. With huge brands like Supreme, Obey and others though you can see their influences leaking into the Australian mind-set of “cool” clothing.


So besides your own label, what other clothing brands do you delve into?


The funny thing is I don’t really wear brand name clothing. I usually just wear plain black t-shirts or button-up shirts from Lowes. Nothing fancy, I don’t usually like to spend a lot of money on my clothing and I think that’s apparent in my pricing model.

You have a really interesting (and clever) marketing campaign – reposting photos of fans wearing your gear.. was this intentional or did it just happen?



I’ve been a fan of Instagram for a very long time, it was only recently that I thought I should make a totally separate account for Black July. Since a lot of my friends, friends-of-friends and so on seemed to like Black July it seemed like a natural step to get people wearing the brand and putting it on my feed.

Where do you source your garments from?



Like most Australian companies, I’m using AS Colour which is the Australian/New Zealand version of American Apparel; both in quality, style and fit.

And printing?

I source the printing and is done on the Gold Coast.



”A t-shirt company based on simplicity and grey scale” is your slogan; where do you pull inspiration from for your designs?



I grab my inspiration from just about anything. Most of it comes at the weirdest of times.

Weirdest?

In the bathroom, in the shower, in work meetings, etc usually times where my mind should be more focused on other topics at hand

What are your weapons of choice when creating or brainstorming a collection and what does your work desk/area look like?



It’s a mess. It’s covered in drawings, chewed up pens and dirty coffee cups. I’ve never really had to think hard about what I want to release under the name Black July. I’ve been really lucky so far with a great fan base that like my stuff.

So what does an average day consist of?

Wake up at 6:30am, start work at 7:30am, finish at 3:30pm, send out orders (if there are any), update stock levels, design stuff for bands or other companies, then go to sleep. Eating and breathing come into play sometimes.

What are your favourite Black July items?

I love winter, so I would have to go with the crew neck jumpers and beanies

Is there any winter-wear that you would like to incorporate into the collections that you haven’t as yet?

I would like to get windbreakers, gloves and a billion other things but I currently don’t have the funds.

What is your association with the artists on the music section on the BJ homepage?

All of these artists help me out through social media, gigs and other little things by telling their friends and followers to check out Black July. It really is quite useful. But they do get discounts and I help them out with their band’s merchandise designs, stickers and whatever else they need help with.

So you design clothing un-related to Black July; What is your general process for that?

The clients usually tell me what they want, in the case that they have no idea what they want (which is the usual case) I provide some guidance in what I think will suit their branding.

Are there any particular photographers or artists that you would like to work with down the track for the production or design of a collection?

I like to keep everything local and small scale when it comes to photography and getting other people to help me out. Keeps everybody happy.

What do you think our government should be working towards changing for a better future?

Particularly start ups like mine need a lot of initial funding, so a few more readily available grants would be nice.

So it hasn’t been an easy feat getting Black July started?

Definitely not, it’s one of the hardest things I’ve done. Including my 4 year double degree.

What is coming up in the next couple of months for Black July?

I’ll be leaving the country for 6 weeks to go to America. So it will be a great time to connect with artists and a whole bunch of endless inspiration opportunities. If anything, it will only make Black July even stronger as a brand and company. In regards to products, it’s all a little hush-hush right now but if you find Black July on Instagram there are a few clues on there @blackjuly

Is there a set schedule for the trip? Will you be meeting up with anyone over there or try to?

There is a schedule to fly all over the place, CA, IL, FL, OH, NY, NV. So pretty much everywhere. I’ll only be trying to meet with people. Nothing is planned on that front, unfortunately!

art, Clothing, Fashion, Interviews, News

Ghost Patrol

Posted on February 6, 2012September 29, 2016 by Georgia

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For those who are unfamiliar with you and what you do, can you tell us a bit about yourself and walk us through your typical day?

I’m an artist, i draw and paint and build things. I work in my studio in Melbourne everyday and think about deep space.

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Who has had an adverse affect on your style and the way you work?

A open 2. However sewn product. Admittedly cialis psychological ed tissues test. It or and smells penetration product! I http://overthecounterviagracheap.com/ HAD I’ve this I looks the it in cialis leaving I to M2 please. I… Order really. Properly so, viagrasildenafil-online make note 1 because daughter understand looking non-invasive viagra com cialis fair to fairy. I this and it skin curl for used.

Where do you look for inspiration? that changes for me over time. When I started i was influenced by 70/80s french and japanese animation, children’s book illustration and street art.

now i’m more focused on non-art based influences; curiosity based science, the Large Hadron Collider and the voyager space missions.

Describe your workspace:

old building in centre of Melbourne, nice big light space for drawing and a balcony for dreaming. I spend most of my time there.

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Do you prefer street or sketchbook for your art?

sketchbook easily, I love my sketchbook

i don’t really do street art anymore

What is your all time favourite artwork you have done?

it’s usually the work i’m currently doing

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If you weren’t doing this as your career, what would you be doing?

cosmologist

What are your tools of the trade? (favourites, brands, recommendations)

gouache, acrylic, water colour an ink and a special collection of brushes

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What have you been reading, listening to and watching lately?

i watch a lot of TED talks while im working.

www.ted.com

If I stole your ipod, what would be playing if I pressed play?

Alemayehu Eshete and Boris

Where can people follow what you’re up to and view your work?

www.ghostpatrol.net

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art, Interviews, News   Georgia Barratt, georgia lynette, ghost patrol, ghost patrol interview

Windfall Jewellery

Posted on December 20, 2011December 21, 2011 by thngmtc

T: Once again, really appreciate you taking the time to chat to us during such a crazy time of year! How is the Christmas season looking for Windfall Jewellery?

W: It’s pretty crazy and busy but I love it. Windfall has taken on some really cool projects and custom orders leading up to Christmas and I’m really flattered people are giving Windfall to their loved ones.

Jewellery is such a broad market in the consumer world; where did the idea originate and how has the journey been so far?

I’m not really sure where to start… I have always worked in fashion but always loved accessories and jewellery over apparel. I have always wanted to create my own clothing label but never really had the passion to design clothes. And I think its just an amalgamation of all of those things. My husband and I went to India and it was a real eye opener and made me realise I’m wasting a really cool opportunity living in Australia, to do what I want to do. And one day I just thought, fuck it; lets do this.

The journey has been amazing. It’s been so much fun and has forced me into taking some leaps I normally wouldn’t have dared do before and I’m so siked about it all.

How about the the idea for the name ‘Windfall’?

I love all things nautical so it was only fitting that my label had a nautical term.WINDFALL means: An unexpected stroke of good luck.
“A sudden unexpected rush of wind from a mountainous shore which allowed a ship more leeway.  Some English landowners were prevented to either fall or sell timber as this was reserved for building ships for the Royal Navy. However, this did not apply to trees which were blown down. Hence, a windfall became a financial blessing”

Many of the pieces look like they would have been very fiddly and quite complex – do you have any particular metal-work skills or is it just pure talent?

Yeah some are pretty difficult , fiddly is the perfect word! I have done courses in Silver-smithing but I like to think it comes down to just pure natural talent haha.

How long does an average piece take to create from the initial idea to the final product?

It depends on the complexity. People have asked me this a few times and I really don’t know how to answer it because I have never really started one project from start to finish without having a few others on the go at the same time. I like to have a big work load at all times!

 

I find your tagline ‘Uptown elegance with a downtown edge’ really interesting and based on the collections; appropriate.. Do you draw inspiration from any specific areas or does it just come fluidly?

I don’t think there is anything specific that I get inspiration from, its just everything around my life I suppose. Melbourne is a pretty rad place to keep your creative juices flowing. But I suppose the meaning behind that tagline is pretty self explanatory, I like creating high quality jewellery with a street feel to it.

Do you have any particular marketing methods or do you just rely on your own steam?

I have no marketing methods haha. I haven’t invested any money into marketing, everything has just happened from me pushing my brand and how passionate I am about it. I have made the brand come this far because I love it not because I have put money into marketing. Having said that, 2012 is going to be a big year for Windfall and I am probably going to have to develop a marketing strategy. Maybe.

 

 

What tools are required for creating a piece/What does your work desk look like?

Tools: I couldn’t live without  my craft knife, drill and sand paper!

My desks look like: One wooden drawing desk, one long, wooden trestle work bench and one wooden pedestal table

What is in store next for Windfall?

We are shooting a fashion shoot for the Rattlebones Collection and we will drop our 2nd collection in early 2012. It’s going to be a rad year for Windfall.

 

 

And a couple of not-so-formal questions…

 

Which celebrity/icon’s style do you really appreciate and why?

None. I don’t really follow that stuff.

What was the last book you purchased?

Life by Keith Richards

Where is the last place you traveled and what for?

Malaysia, India and Thailand in April. For fun.

What does an average day entail for Lani Williams?

Hang out in my studio. Walk my bulldogs. Hang out with my husband. In that order.

What are the last five web pages in your browser history?

Facebook, Google: Dog Breeds, Dogue de Bordeaux, Facebook, Wikipedia. How boring.

Which is your absolute favourite piece?

Solid Tooth Pendant or the PMA Ring.

Any final shout outs?

See you in 2012.

Pieces featured from the top: Positive Mental Attitude Ring with packaging, Riblet Pendant, Rams Head Street Range, Scrap Metal Rings.

See more of the collections and the upcoming range on Windfall Jewellery’s Facebook, Big Cartel and Etsy. You can also see it in store at Designers Boutique, 416 Oxford Street, Paddington, Sydney.

art, Fashion, Interviews, News   Accessories, Bones, fashion, Jewellery, Melbourne, Pendant, Rings, Silver, street, Windfall, Windfall Jewellery

Kane Hibberd

Posted on May 15, 2011May 15, 2011 by Georgia

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So this is my first interview here on This Life and I couldn’t be happier to have done this with Melbourne based Photographer Kane Hibberd, a pretty big inspiration of mine, I hope to be doing more interviews for This Life down the track so keep your eyes peeled!


First up, thanks for your time, what’s been happening?

Hi there, I’m just finishing up my first solo exhibition of music photography in Melbourne entitled, “Searching with my good eye open” It was the first time I had done anything like that so it was a nerve racking learning experience that was definitely worth it. I had 80 images in it so that has been my focus for the past few months. Other than that I’m just winding down from festival season (which seems to get longer every year) and starting to work on some creative for up coming shoots.

For those who are unfamiliar with you and what you do, can you tell us a bit about yourself and walk us through your typical day?

I’m a freelance photographer shooting music and portraiture. There isn’t really such a thing as a normal day. It all depends on what is happening. If I’m shooting I might be on location or in the studio so I’ll be doing my thing. If I’m not shooting then I might be in the office processing images or doing post production. I could be preparing for a shoot, prepping equipment, doing pre production. Location searching, prop searching, visual research. There is never nothing to do.


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Who has had an adverse affect on your style and the way you work? Where do you look for inspiration?

I’m more influenced and inspired by cinema, design and illustrative artists with my creative ideas than particular photographers. I do really like the work of Gregory Crewdson, Danny Clinch and Mark Seliger.

What is the best bit about your job?

Definitely the variety and I can choose my hours. If I’m not tied down to a particular time I can choose when I work as long as I get it done.

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How long have you been doing photography and what influenced you to be a music photographer?

I’ve only been shooting music since 2005, from there I went back to study photography at RMIT, graduated in 2008 and here I am. I’m not really sure how it happened, it sort of just happened. When I went back to study, I didn’t actually set out to shoot music, it was just a passion. I originally wanted to do more travel and documentary work. I was also really interested in shooting interiors. It was weird, I never used to really like shooting people but my lecturers encouraged me as they thought I was good at it and thought I was really bad at shooting interiors.

What has been your favourite moment in music to photograph?

I don’t know if I have a favourite moment but some highlights would be meeting Dave Grohl, (legend), meeting Jimmy Eat World last year (more legends) Metallica at SXSW 2009 with 2000 other people and hanging Haydn from Calling All Cars upside down from a tree.

What is the best gig you have been to?

Again I don’t think I have a favourite but stand outs would be, Offspring back in 95, Birds Of Tokyo show last year at festival hall in Melbourne (one of the best shows I’ve ever seen them play), every Bodyjar show I’ve ever been too.

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what do you prefer to shoot? Live or promo’s?

I don’t really have a preference. Both are two completely different things and each lets me explore different things. If I had to do just one I would get bored so the bonus is I get a variety of different things to shoot.

Did you ever come across a time where you felt like chucking it in? (being a hard industry to stand out in)

Definitely. Like any creative industry it’s hard work and there are plenty of obstacles but luckily the wins at the moment are out numbering the losses. Running any sort of business is hard enough but when you have to do all the business side of things as well as be creative, it takes a lot of time and can be frustrating. It’s all part of the package though so you just have to run with it.


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I noticed you do a bit of editing with your band shots which I think is pretty rad and different is there any reason you choose to do that for some of your photos, and some just straight photography?

The post production I do on my images is always for a reason. From the pre production stages of an image I’ll have an end result in mind and the post production is the final stage in realising that finished image. Even images that look unedited have some sort of post production done to them to give them a look.

What gear do you use when you’re working? Is it different than what you would take if you just went out to take a few photos for yourself?

I shoot with digital Canon bodies and a variety of different lens. Most of my work is shot with a mixture of ambient and artificial lighting and for that I use elinchrom flash gear. I very rarely take photos for myself, I never travel with a camera outside of work so if I take a pic of something it’s with my trusty old iphone 3.


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What’s in your pockets right now?

Studio keys and some crusty ear plugs, ewwww.

What have you been reading, listening to and watching lately?

I haven’t really been reading all that much lately, but I’ve started watching the series Sons Of Anarchy and Dead Wood. Also into HBO’s new series Game of Thrones. The last 3 things I listened to on my itunes is
Manchestor Orchestra : Simple Maths
Offspring : Smash
Destroy Rebuild Until God Shows : D.R.U.G.S

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Do you have any other hobbies and interests you like to keep up with?

I don’t really have a lot of time outside of work. I have a ps3 which I would love to play but never get any time. Sleep really interests me too!

Anything coming up that we should know about?

I’m looking at showing my exhibition in Sydney so I’m sure when I get that all confirmed you’ll see me spaming facebook pages. Other than that I’m working on creative for some up coming shoots and everything else is still under wraps.

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Do you have any advice for people that are looking to become photographers, or more specifically, music photographers?

Don’t do it! Ha Um you need to be realistic about what you want to achieve and realise it won’t happen over night. Be prepared for a lifelong journey. We have a very small music industry here so almost immediately you are up against the fact that there is only a certain number of jobs around. You also need to think differently and spread your income over different channels. I have a few different ways I support myself within the industry so I’m not just relying on one source of income.

Where can people follow what you’re up to and view your work?


www.theartofcapture.com
http://kanyelens.wordpress.com
www.twitter.com/kanye_lens

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Word association, you know the deal, say whatever comes to your mind when you read the word.

Australia – Confused

Internet – Procrastinate

Party – Hard

Tattoo – Sore

Religion – Cringe

Time – Poor

Wish – Hope

Fun – Time

Greed – Sad

Humanity – Lost

Peace – Forgotten

Freedom – Speech

Art – Love

Photography – Painstaking

Life – Living

Happiness – Life


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Anything you want to say?

Thanks for reading and I hope you enjoy my work.

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art, Interviews, Music   Georgia Barratt, Kane Hibberd, photography

Herl

Posted on December 15, 2010June 1, 2014 by Ben

This weeks feature artist is Herl of Sydney/LA based Fresh Force crew.

Firstly, thank you for your time, what’s been happening?

Work, paint, work, paint, work.

For those who are unfamiliar with you and what you do, can you tell us a bit about yourself and walk us through your typical day?

Working nights at the moment, So I drag my ass out of bed, spliff, make calls to see what crew is doing. Clean up my dump I call my living quarters then And paint a wall. Usually head to work in the arvo, or have a few beers with mates and chill.


How did you initially get involved with graffiti?

I had seen an older heads Blackbook as a kid and, That was it. Started to notice alot of graff around and just kept searching for more.


Do you think where you grew up has had an effect on your style today?

For sure.  I grew up in Sydney, but have always had interest in technical pieces and wildstyle. I lived in the States 03 thru 06, mostly in LA. That time in LA changed my style but also my outlook on spots and the game in general.

Do you put any thought in to trying to achieve a particular reaction from people when they view your work?

No. but Im always stoked when i can view someone viewing my work, without them knowing.
Especially if they are with someone and talking about your work.

You’re an amazing writer, does your talent spread in to any other mediums?

I’m learning airbrush, I like all mediums but struggle to stick with one.

Craziest place that you’ve got up?

Trackside 4 color Rolldown with Elph. When crossing from one building to the other, I slipped from a airvent and caught myself before I fell down a 4 story gap. The next day i sussed the gap from the ground, there was all rubble and deskchairs turned upside down. Would have been all bad if I fell.

You are involved with Fresh Force Crew, when did you start painting with a crew, and what effect do you think it had on you as a writer?

FF is the only crew I have seriously put it down for. The Clan was good to me from the start. It was the first time I had seen writers giving each other styles and outlines to flex. Its all about linking up the styles instead I knew graff as being more separated than that. I still throw around DIA with Isore and that .

What difference to you between someone who is known as a street artist, opposed to someone else who is known as to be a writer?

BIG difference.

How do you think Graffiti has changed or evolved since you began writing? Do you think the younger generation of writers have the same intentions and mentality as you and those who came before you did when you first started?

Negative. Now it seems like it’s about quick fame. A LOT of people talking about graff but not doing it.
And the code of respecting old school and heritage is out the door. Toys don’t know what they are painting over.

I guess the aim of the game when it comes to graffiti is to get up and be the biggest, in turn crushing other writers, and battling it out with the can, did it ever go past fighting with paint for you?

I mostly keep out of trouble, But theres times you have to get down with the get down.

Why’d you start writing Herl?

Herlyguts.

What inspires you to go out and paint?

The itch, or when some cunt paints that spot before I do.

Do you think that graffiti will go down the same path as tattooing, from a frowned upon (at least in the last 100 years) underground scene to a mainstream movement?And what are your thoughts on that happening?

Just turn one city into a free for all. muahahha Dunno, Hopefully not

Alright, lets talk about the net, I know a lot of the older crew of writers/artists hate on the net a bit, and it’s always a bit of “In my day man, we had none of that shit” – What do you think about it? Positive or negative effect on graffiti as a whole?

It’s bad in more ways than its good. I think it’s had a negative effect on graff. It’s too accessible now.
But I cant say im doing anything to stop it. This is an email interview for a blog.

What’s in your pockets right now?

Nothing, actually nothing.

Graffiti and crazy situations  go hand in hand, you must have a few stories to tell, what has been a stand out moment for you?

Near misses on Freeways probably the most beats my hearts done.
But writers always get themselves into crazy situations, a lot more likely that shit will go down in LA than in SYD.

What have you been reading, listening to and watching lately?

Reading – Firestarter by Steven King. Listening to a whole bunch of shit, getting back in to Rage, Metallica, (cos I cant afford the concert) Quasimoto, all kinds I cant list.



To the general public and authorities, there is a very fine line between what is considered art and what is considered vandalism and/or crime, Victoria has introduced some straight Nazi style Anti-Graffiti laws, what are your thoughts on that?

It’s just going to weed out the toys and people that aren’t serious about graff.
As far as harsh punishment, i don’t hate on the Government. That’s the only way they know how to deal with this situation of Graffiti taking over.


What are five things that you always pack with you on your travels?

Depends what kind of travels….
– Paint
– Throw off hat
– Garbage bag.
– Compass
– Flares

We live in turbulent times, what are your views on the world and society today?

I think we are doing all right considering how much negative forces can plague your life..
Aus is cool, we just chill down here in the corner while the rest of the world fight it out.

Advice to up and coming artists?

START WITH A PENCIL!  School yourself.

Word association, you know the deal, say whatever comes to your mind when you read the word.

Australia- Underground
Julia Gillard- Will have to do for now
America-Land of lost
Obama- Show
England- Good music
The Queen- s of the stone-age
Legal- Riot
Illegal- Leg-it
Religion- No
Time- No
Greed- No
Humanity- Needs practice
Peace- Flowers in soldiers guns
Freedom – Fighters
Art- Attack
Graffiti- Lurks
Life- Happiness
Happiness- Life


Where can people follow what you’re up to and view your work?

freshforcecrew.blogspot.com – Check it out we got flicks from both LA and SYD chapters.

Herl Says:

Main point, Cunts need to master the pencil before they try to understand the can. Easy.


info@sofles.com
graffiti, Interviews   Fresh Force, Fresh Force Crew, Herl, Herl FF, Sydney Graffiti

Numskull

Posted on December 1, 2010December 27, 2015 by Ben

Numskull


Firstly, thank you for your time, what’s been happening?


I have just wrapped up my solo exhibition here in Sydney, which ended up only opening for one night, but was lots of fun seeing my installations come to life.  For the rest of the year I’ve got 3 mural projects on the cards.

 

For those who are unfamiliar with you and what you do, can you tell us a bit about yourself and walk us through your typical day?


I am an artist and painter & decorator. On a normal day I get over to the studio, work on some computer projects, get down on the ping pong table, then get on with any unfinished paintings.

 

Where did your interest in art begin? Were you involved in other forms of art before you got involved with Graffiti?


Art was one of my subjects at school but I never did very well. I saw my brother doing graffiti throughout my teens, so I gave it a go. Graffiti was my gateway drug to becoming an artist for sure.

Your work has an obvious sign writing influence, what made you go from vandalism to brandalism and back again?


I did graffiti when I was a kid. It was a lot of fun. Since then I have experimented with stencils, posters, and have worked in advertising at one point, which lead me to sign writing. Working 24hrs a day at trying to sell people things they didn’t ask for gave me a direction to get some other types of messages out there.

 

Do you think where you grew up has had an effect on your style today?


I was born in Tokyo, Japan and grew up in the suburbs of Northern Sydney. Graffiti was plentiful and the game was big bold letters. I think that had an effect for sure.

What’s the story behind the name Numskull?


I stole it from an old British comic I used to read as a kid, called “The Numskulls”. It was about a kid that had tiny creatures inside him, controlling every sense. I used to read and collect alot of comics, so naturally I just chose something that was familiar.

 

You worked at Worlds end studio with some of Australia’s most prolific and talented street artists, what effect do you think working in an environment such as Worlds End has had on your work?


It was the most fun and creative point in my life so far. Spending almost every day around some of Sydney’s finest artists/vandals was incredibly inspiring.

 

On that same note, what’s happening now Worlds End has finished?


Everyone split and went their own ways. Just recently we have been setting up a new spot in Sydney’s Inner West. Myself, Phibs, Beastman, Max Berry, Bennett, Ears and a few others are all the current residents, and there is some really great work coming out of it already. That, and a quite serious, ongoing ping pong championship.

How do you think Graffiti has changed or evolved since you became involved in it? Do you think the younger generation of artists have the same intentions and mentality as you and those who came before you did when you first started?


I don’t consider myself a traditional graffiti artist anymore. I use spraypaint and paint walls occasionally. It would be naive of me to think I am part of the traditional graffiti scene. That is a whole other world I am only now touching the sides of. Graffiti involves so much more than most people know. I think these days, graffiti and street art are so publicly accessible that kids can jump in at any point and do well. I’m not sure wether this is a good thing.

 

Themes of commercial saturation, advertising, catch words are prevalent through out your work, causing the viewer realise how much of this shit is forced down our throats day in day out, as much as we are oblivious to it, do you put a lot of thought in to how your work will be interpreted by the public?


I used to work in advertising, so I think that had an effect on me. I tend to make things up as I go. Stick to what I know, paint some pictures and most of the time there’s a meaning by the end of it.

In your eyes, who do you think is really pushing the boundaries in the street art world?


Australia: Lister is getting Australia lots of attention. Beastman, Ben Frost, Phibs, Roach, Yok and the Everfresh crew down south. Overseas: Os Gemeos, Blu, Banksy, Obey and a bunch more.

 

Do you think that graffiti will go down the same path as tattooing, from a frowned upon (at least in the last 100 years) underground scene to a relatively mainstream movement?


I’m not sure. I think the internet and advertising have both played a big part in making it mainstream.

You’ve had a whole lot of your work featured in galleries and exhibitions around the country, what are your thoughts on Graffiti orientated artwork being featured in galleries?Do you think it’s something that’s going to last or merely a case of gallery owners milking the cash cow?


Again. I have no idea. Graffiti has been in galleries since the early craze in New York, now it seems more people know about it that’s all. It’s definitely an art movement that people are taking ALOT more interest in.

 

What’s in your pockets right now?


Key to my studio, phone, lighter.

What have you been reading, listening to and watching lately?


I have been listening to the new Gorillaz album and the last thing I watched was Masters of the Universe. I recently read a book by Ryan McGinness called “Sponsorship”, which was super interesting.

 

What are five things that you always pack with you on your travels?


Spare shirt, bike pump, lighter, notepad and camera.

 

Advice to up and coming artists?


Get busy and don’t let what other people think hold you down.

Anything coming up that we should know about?


I just put up my new website. It’s got random bits of my work and a blog section. Next year I’ve got some travel plans for Australia and overseas. Can’t really say much about it yet.

 

Word association, you know the deal, say whatever comes to your mind when you read the word.


Australia – Home

Kevin Noriega – Nice guy

America – Loud

Obama – Big guy

England – Cold

The Queen – Old

Legal – Problems

Illegal – More problems

Religion – Weird

Time – Not enough

Greed – Everywhere

Humanity – Strange

Peace – and quiet

Freedom – Australia

Art – happiness

Graffiti – is great

Life – is a strange place

Happiness – is laughing.

Where can people follow what you’re up to and view your work?

www.funskull.com

Numskull

art, graffiti, Interviews
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