Justin Alves

Mini Project

2012-02-04T13:26:00.000-08:00

I think I found a new mini project to help work on my hand type and digital work…#Beards + #Unicorns =

Friday Blockage

2012-02-03T14:06:00.000-08:00

Cause I really needed to do a drawing to get things flowing. I always have a block on friday afternoons, don’t know what that’s about.

No SOPA

2012-01-18T05:57:00.000-08:00

PROTECT-IP is a bill that has been introduced in the Senate and the House and is moving quickly through Congress. It gives the government and corporations the ability to censor the net, in the name of protecting “creativity”. The law would let the government or corporations censor entire sites— they just have to convince a judge that the site is “dedicated to copyright infringement.”

http://americancensorship.org

To Have a Secret Identity or Not

2011-12-04T11:08:00.001-08:00

The formation of this show stemmed from a conversation that I had concerning my own work. I was talking about the work that I have produced over the past two years in connection with Salacious Magazine (NSFW) and, to put it bluntly, the porn that was created while I simultaneously was working on my children's book. Personally I didn't have a conflict about producing work in these two different worlds, I consider myself a sex educator in the community as well as a someone who is sex positive. It was more the fear that my children's book wouldn't be picked up by a publisher if they found that I was a link between these two separate bodies of work.

Why is it that our culture would draw such a hard line of acceptance between these two separate bodies of work? Should I choose a pseudonym to create my sex positive work under? Is having a pseudonym in tern shaming myself for being a link between these two bodies of work?

Despite my feelings surrounding the work he created for PlayBoy, Shel Silverstein was a lead illustrator for PlayBoy during the 50's and 60's. It wasn't until later in his life that he created numerous books of poetry for children, that to this day are enjoyed by many the world over. When I have mentioned this to people they either didn't know this is how he got his start, or are completely unfazed.

In contrast, we glance at the work of Judy Blume, despite the fact that this may have become a cliche of an example, I still consider it completely relevant. The 1970's book "Are You There God? It's Me, Margaret?" tackles a number of female pre-teen (or by our current standards "tween") events: purchasing your first bra, having your first period, coping with "adhesive sanitary pads", other developing girls, and liking boys. While these seem like completely normal conversations to be having this book was received with a lot of controversy and eventual led to an ongoing battle between Blume and censors, to this day.

How is it that there was little to no controversy surrounding Silverstein's history with PlayBoy and the children's work that he created? Why was Blume met with so much more controversy? Was it because she was a woman? Is it because she "dared" to breech the wall drawn between developing children and sex ed?

In writing this brief lecture I came across a quote from Shel Silverstein that I find well suited for todays show: "I think that if you're a creative person, you should just go about your business, do your work and not care about how it's received…I was always prepared for success but that means that I have to be prepared for failure too. I have an ego, I have ideas, I want to be articulate, to communicate but in my own way."

Ultimately, if you pick up your own copy of Salacious Magazine (NSFW) you won't find my twitter handle, @Prince_Money, attached to my illustrations. I decided that these two bodies of work can live separately attached to my name and will hopefully in the future inform each other to create children's books that, similarly to Blume, dare to negotiate the boundaries between children's art and art dealing with sexuality.

Finally the Origin of Love Video

2011-10-19T19:04:00.000-07:00

Finally uploaded the video of Origin of Love from the Hedwig show that I did my illustrations for. I know that many of you did not get to see these slides in action, let alone see the great performance by Gene Dante as Hedwig. I apologize for the quality of the video, the lights (while awesome during the show) didn't really add anything to my video quality. Either way, I hope that you enjoy the clip!

If after words you decide that you NEED to have some prints of the illustrations, by all means visit my store here: https://justinalvesstore.bigcartel.com

The Balance of Work, Work, and Work

2011-10-11T09:03:00.000-07:00

Often when asked about why I do "for a living" I like to explain what I do as if I were a superhero. "By day I work for [blank], a non-profit that [blanks]. By night...by night I am a freelance illustrator and designer..." If I were to actually calculate with a magic device (calculator) the percentage of time I spend between my 40hr a week job, my freelance work, and my own personal work, we would probably find that it breaks down to something like 60%, 30%, and 5%; The missing 5% I will dedicate to the times that I take a break in the studio and dance.

Recently I have had about 0 time to dedicate to my own personal projects that I have been working on, specifically my children's book that's been a work in progress now for 3 years. This has been driving me absolutely nuts! I have been loving the fact that I have been kept busy with numerous different projects, and have actually enjoyed the work that I have been doing. But, for the first time in-a-while I had the opportunity to get back to work on my book and left the studio more energized than I have in so long.

Needless to say, this post is to confess my addiction. The addiction to working on my own projects. I don't think I can get enough of it, and am dying to get back into the studio and back to work on the book.

Process Around the World

2011-08-21T11:22:00.000-07:00

Okay, so maybe not completely around the world. More like right next to me in the same studio.

Above is a video by one of my fellow illustrators/designers, Katie Diamond (blog here) who I have now shared a studio with for as long as I can remember.

So many people have said that they like seeing peoples processes, and since I am also one of the those people I figured I would share this video that Katie just made detailing the behind the scenes of one of the pieces she is working on. While she may seem crazy in the video, I assure you she is crazy, as well as talented. The specific illustration she is working on definitely gives her some challenges though, having to be from the 1st person perspective of an action happening. Watch the video and you will understand what I am talking about.

To see more of her work by all means visit her website here: http://katiediamond.com

As a side note, there is another performance of Hedwig happening @PlayhouseOnPark in CT: http://ow.ly/65tBS Be sure to grab a #print from origin of love: http://ow.ly/65tH8

Architectural Stylings

2011-08-17T18:25:00.000-07:00

As you can see from the left image I have been back at some painting finally. It felt really good to delve back into the paints since I have been doing so much computer design work and photo editing.

The project this time was an architectural illustration for a camp in northern Maine. The camp itself does it's best to make their facilities completely accessible to people with disabilities, which is awesome.

So below you will find a few process images, as well as some ink drawings of the people I am placing into the drawings to add some scale to the piece.

Once the final piece is done, I will be sure to give you all an update. But for now be sure to check out my store, but this time make sure you tell all your friends.

At Long Last Another Bird!

2011-07-26T19:56:00.000-07:00

So I immediately apologize for my extensive lack of posting. I have been swamped with a contract job, and because of that haven't been really able to work on other things or post the work that I am doing for that job.

Fear not though, despite that other job I did just recently finish a commissioned piece. Since you have been so good I'll even post the whole process of the painting. I suppose I should preface this with the fact that this bird, Sophie to be specific, is an African Gray Parrot (or something like that) whose owner commissioned me to do this painting.

Let me know what you think about process posts. Give me a yay or a nay and I'll see what I can do either way. Also, if you liked this bird, you should check out my other bird paintings at my store here: justinalvesstore.bigcartel.com

Launch of My Store

2011-06-05T15:40:00.000-07:00

Yes, you read that right. I finally launched my own online store! You all can now purchase your favorite illustrations from "Hedwig and the Angry Inch" or one of my bird paintings from my on going Dress to the Birds series; in the wonderful sizes of 4x6 or 8x10.

Even if you aren't able to purchase one of these beautiful prints, do me the honor and favor of passing this on to your friends, family, loved ones. Heck lets get on this new fangled social media and spread the word!

For your pleasure and your convenience, here is a link for you all to follow: here

I Can't Keep Secrets...

2011-05-24T11:38:00.000-07:00

Alright, alright! Here's a little sneak peek at the "Bread Book", my own children's book that I have been working on and conceptualizing for the past few years. I am finally finishing up the final sketches on the book before I begin soliciting the manuscript to my list of publishers.

Now, I know all of you may be upset that I "cleverly concealed" part of the drawing, but I'm just trying to wet your whistle and have you wanting more.

On a separate note, The Hedwig show has wrapped up in Portland and is on it's way to Boston for June 9th through the 11th (http://ow.ly/51Ykp). There was also a little review with a tiny tiny mention of my slides here: http://ow.ly/51YTG, where they say that my illustrations "are smartly designed and deftly executed, and come together to dazzling effect, which is heightened by the intimacy of SPACE's small stage and close seating..." you know, no big deal. I plan on posting a video of Hedwig and the Angry Inch in action along side my slides soon, so keep your eyes open for that!

Follow @prince_money

Post O' Posters...

2011-05-16T08:14:00.000-07:00

Fun Fact: When I am not in the studio I work in the communications department for a local not-for-profit in South Portland, ME. This not-for-profit is a CIL (center for independent living) and focuses on providing information and resources to people with disabilities.

That said, I recently worked on two fundraiser posters for Ms. Wheelchair Maine in a recent collaboration between her and my previously mentioned employer. I had a lot of fun with these, and it's actually the first time in a while that I have been able to have complete freedom in my designs at my work.

It's important to note that the names for the events were not my doing, though I do really love the Sit Down, Stand Up name; hilarious.

Give Some SALACIOUS Support

2011-05-02T08:22:00.000-07:00

Not that I need your support to be salacious, though that can work too, I want you to support SALACIOUS. SALACIOUS Magazine is a Queer Feminist Sexuality Mag that one of my best friends, fellow illustrator, Katie Diamond (http://katiediamond.com/) has been working on and putting together.

The first issue was a HUGE success and I feel as though it can only get better from here. I have and am a contributer to this magazine, having done last issues cover illustration as well as spot illustrations in the interior, and am fulling support and backing this project as much as I can.

SALACIOUS Magazine has an ultimate aim to pay themselves, but more importantly all of their contributers and to pay them fairly. At this time SALACIOUS doesn't get paid for their time. And are currently operating at a loss, they are all volunteering their time between other ventures to give you a fresh take on queer feminist sexuality. SALACIOUS is able to be sleek, glossy, and well-curated because they strongly believe in their work, despite the fact that it is not (at least at this moment) financially viable.

Right now, Katie takes full financial responsibility for all travel, printed materials, magazine printing, stickers, postcards, and web-stuff. I will neither beg, nor implore you. I will simply ask that if you feel compelled to, or have the financial ability to donate to the magazine please do so.

Click here to donate: http://www.indiegogo.com/SALACIOUS-Magazine

Secrets Secrets Are No Fun...

2011-04-25T19:50:00.000-07:00

Now that I have finished the 26 illustrations of "Origin of Love" from Hedwig and the Angry Inch and my submissions for SALACIOUS Magazine, I was able to finally get back to a project that I have been working on and off on for the past few years.

I was able to sit down and go through all the edits and comments that my editors (read: fantastically amazing friends) made.

I came.

I wrote.

I conquered.

At least I feel like I did. Writing isn't my strong suit, but it has definitely helped to get some extra eyes on this children's book I am working on. I'm still super hush hush on the process and actual story line on this, so sadly for all of of you internet folks you'll have to wait on any further show-and-tell.

In the mean time, don't forget to check out Hedwig in Portland, ME @ SPACE Gallery on May 13th (yeah I'm going to keep talking about this): http://www.space538.org/event_details.php?id=806

Finished Painting the Hedwig Slides!

2011-03-27T15:21:00.000-07:00

Yes, you read right! I finally finished painting all of the slides to accompany "Hedwig and the Angry Inch" during the song "Origin of Love." You may not be as excited as I am, but you should be. This was equivilant to illustrating a children's book in about two months; so crazy!

I am now going to go finally eat something, since I haven't eaten since around 10 this morning; STARVING!

Don't forget to mark your calendars for the Hedwig show @ SPACE Gallery on May 13th: http://www.space538.org/event_details.php?id=806

Back From My Short Break

2011-03-14T14:56:00.000-07:00

You probably looking at this gif and wondering what the heck is going on here. Well here's what's happening, let me set the scene. During my time off from the studio I went with a couple of friends for some outdoor adventures, and lets just say that I was not well dressed to be trekking in the snow.

So, like I said, I took a short break from working on Hedwig. I know I know I shouldn't have, but, it was just a weekend. And let me tell you I needed the refresher. I come into the studio today with a refreshed mind, new supplies and ready to hit the ground running.

Also! The Portland, ME date for the Hedwig show is Friday, May 13th. Once I have the Boston and Province Town dates I'll be sure to post them! Here's a link for the Portland Show: http://www.space538.org/event_details.php?id=806

Hedwig Slides at 11/26

2011-02-22T20:10:00.000-08:00

THOR!

"And Thor said, 'I'm going to kill them all with my Hammer, like I killed the Giants."

Oh man, super excited how these are coming! But, now I have to call it a night, since I have officially been working for 14 hrs. My bed is calling me!

With that I bid you adieu, till next time!

Hedwig Slides at 10/26

2011-02-22T16:59:00.000-08:00

Alright Alright! We are now 10/26 here on the "Origin of Love" slide show from Hedwig and the Angry Inch. I am a little behind where I wanted to be, but things are still moving along. Only 16 more illustrations to go!

To the left is from the line "and the Gods grew quite scared of our strength and defiance". Thor is next!

All Work and No Play...

2011-02-18T13:10:00.000-08:00

How can I work when the view is like this and the weather is so nice? I'm so glad that the weather is starting to change, especially considering the amount of snow we have had this year. The only concern is that the nicer it gets the harder is is for me to keep myself inside working.

Well for today I am going for a walk, Hedwig can wait till later tonight.

Finally Got a Planner!!

2011-02-04T13:10:00.000-08:00

I know, I know it's the little things really. I went down to Longfellow Books for a break from the studio and found this planner and fell in love. Then I proceeded to pilage the children's books section for more publishers to check out. Ultimately a successful break from the studio.

Hedwig Sneak Peak

2011-01-28T12:47:00.000-08:00

Okay okay, I know that all my fans out there are dying to see what I have come up with for the Hedwig project I am working on. Yes, I said all my fans.

With out further adieu I give you your own personal preview of the sketches for the "Origin of Love" slides:

Studio Move

2011-01-28T12:17:00.000-08:00

Okie day! So me and my studio mates moved our studio. This new space is so much bigger, we are now working with 650 sq ft instead of our previous 250 sq ft. This means that we will no longer have to work on top of each other and can actually spread out and really feel comfortable.

The picture to the left is from our entrance, where you can see our new flat file that was so nicely donated as well as our sexy new futon. So long twin bed that had dreams of being a couch.

And below is a photo of my work space with the awesome, ingenious, and high-tech viewing wall that Katie and I thought up and installed next to my desk. (yeah those things are held up with magnets)

"Origin of Love" from Hedwig and the Angry Inch

2011-01-10T08:23:00.000-08:00

So it's official! Going to be illustrating the slides for "Origin of Love" for a performance of Hedwig and the Angry Inch that will be showing in Portland, Boston, and Province Town. Stay tuned for more details and sketches.

What Happens When I get a Gift Certificate to a Book Store:

2010-12-04T09:00:00.000-08:00

So I recently got a gift certificate to the Green Hand (greenhandbooks.blogspot.com) in Portland, which if you live or visit here you must check out. And unlike a normal adult, I bought children's books.

Not Just any children's books, no. I bought Pssst by Adam Rex (adamrex.com) and Uncle Bigfoot by George O'Connor (geooco.blogspot.com <-- I think that's him)

Both books have great illustrations and hilarious stories. Be sure to check em' out!

Sketchbook from Montreal

2010-12-03T14:38:00.000-08:00

A sketchbook drawing I did in the Old Port of Montreal down near the water. I was such a gorgous day out I had to do some drawing, but then when my hands felt like they were going to fall off I had to stop.

Note: Drawing outside awesome and fun. Drawing outside in 20 something degrees F, not so fun.

Montreal Photos...finally

2010-12-03T14:32:00.000-08:00

I know, I have been totally slacking with these photos from Montreal. I had an amazing time while I was there and have the photos to prove it. While I was there I did get to go see the Contemporary Arts Museum, which had an amazing exhibit where every piece included the artists interpretation of the color blue, as well as the Fine Arts Museum which had a featured exhibit on Otto Dix (see left).

Okay, and now for the onslaught of photos from Montreal. Get ready for some randomness that was caught within the Old Port, which has some beautiful buildings and fantastic stuff all over.

On my way to Montreal!

2010-11-08T08:37:00.000-08:00

Taking a little time off from building my website; so much coding!

I'm going to be heading to Montreal for a bit of adventure and visiting a place I am slowly calling my home away from home.

Since I have been working on the website I haven't been working much on some of my other projects. Hopefully I will be able to take this time and be able to work a little bit more in my sketchbook and be able to take a bunch of photos of the fantastic Montreal.

Toast Tanker!

2010-10-24T14:04:00.000-07:00

This is what happens when @kmegaphoned challenges me while in the studio. She demanded that I draw toast tanker, so what's a better way to avoid building my website than to draw an army toast tanker...

2010-10-23T14:12:00.000-07:00

The place I feel I never leave, my stu stu studio. Phil Collins didn't want to be photographed, so he is hiding off camera.