Art in Unusual Spaces: Corn Exchange Leeds: 'quick on the draw'

This was my contribution to the 'quick on the draw' event in The Corn Exchange, Leeds, organised by 'Art in Unusual Spaces.'

This event used the building's circular shape, and the amount of time an artist was allowed to spend on a drawing was dictated to where it would be placed within the circle. So if an artist gets 2 o'clock the artist gets five minutes, and so on.

Thankfully I was given 23 minutes which was stressfull enough! I drew this clown to represent my sadness at how The Corn Exchange has changed so much, since its glory days of alternative quirky stores, comic shops, and goth emporiums. Now it is a souless yuppie dive, with a grey eatery on the lower level, and dull minimalist stores, baby stores, and dresses and beige bags for middle aged women. Gone is the eclectic soul of this place!

So my work is a silent protest.

It was great to see so many familiar faces from the Leeds art 'scene'. Though there is no scene: it was a hugely friendly event. It was good to see once again the artists Drew Millward, Fon Fon, and Krystina Baczynski at work. Afterwards I had a great time with the graffitti guys from 'bestjoinedup' in Milo's, half a pint of lager and a good old natter.

I've just had my feet up reading the final installment of the Scott Pilgrim comics to complete my collection. This addition from Brian Lee O' Malley does not dissapoint. Now there is the film adaptation to watch and the computer game to buy.

All in all a hugely mellow and satisfying day. Art events are always the best.

Robot exhibition Edinburgh

Every boy and girl loves a robot, and at the moment I am preparing an exhibition due to take place in Edinburgh, with a collection of robot themed drawings and paintings.

This is part of the 'Sunday Salon,' a monthly exhibition that meets in the founder's elegant home. Alongside me are exhibiting eager budding and talented young artists, graduates of Edinburgh College of Art.

Today you see a sampling. This one is not yet finished but I like it, so you see it in its unfinished glory.

Illustration for music magazine Rhubarb Bomb

I was asked by the music magazine 'Rhubarb Bomb' to produce some illustrations for their up and coming edition. This was to illustrate an article about the band 'Wave Pictures.' I produced two illustrations relevant to the article, and the lyrics of 'Wave Pictures.' This was a difficult process, as the lyrics are so rich in imagery.

I went for something simple, Japanese style waves, and a picture of Blackpool Tower. As well as this, I was priveleged to be able to do the front cover, but more on that later.