RICE CANDY MAGAZINE (updated)

I was going to post about this later in the coming weeks. But now seems as good a time as any.

First I would like to thank all of you for taking your time to visit my blog/site. I encourage you to keep in touch as there will be new things coming soon for ricecandy, like contests and a magazine (a printed publication) in the works along with other projects. I will try to have as many readers as I can involved in these projects, because Ricecandy is all about interaction with the creative community. Some of you may have already received an email about this. But now that all of this is mentioned, I will be looking for contributors for the magazine in the following categories:

Writers, Photographers, Illustrators, Proof Readers, etc, etc. And basically any one who has a good idea to contribute. I am also looking for someone with presentation skills that can (with a pleasant clear voice, guy or girl) do a voice over for another project (all you would have to do is read an already composed article or description).

And last but not least I need a good cover for the first issue. I want the first issue to have a delightful image that will be coherent to the style you can already see here at Ricecandy.net. Therefore I am looking for a cover artist, or photographer (and if you are neither but still have a good idea? you can submit your idea as well). One of the main articles and possibly cover title you will see in the cover will be ABOUT "colors". I am working on the article already but not a definitely title (this is just reference for the one interested in designing the cover) NOTE: click on the picture to obtain a larger image of the blank cover for you to work your idea.

I will update this post later to break down each category and what I am looking for in better detail.

Now...I could do the cover and the articles myself and possibly most of the magazine, but that's not what this is about. Ricecandy.net is about trying to get creative, POSITIVE minds involved; especially those who want their work to see the light of day (in a full color printed magazine). There are so many bloggers who like to write, so many of you who love to photograph or illustrate and a lot of you with great creative ideas.

With all of the above being said. If you would like to see your work in this magazine e-mail me with your idea or work sample you would like to contribute to the magazine. All of the contributors will get their work and name printed along with contact information to their blog, site or portfolio they would like readers to be redirected to.

PLEASE leave a comment about this project (everyone's opinion is recommended) and later email me if you want to elaborate. I will be checking back here to read everyone's feedback to this post. I appreciate everyone's attention.

UPDATE

I still need areas covered in the magazine . The submissions that are still needed is as follows:

-More photography submissions (the individual photography showcase section will be about 10 pages). Please send submission in high resolution 305dpi 7x7 " .

-More Illustrations submissions (this will also be a 10 page section) please send images in high resolution 305 dpi 7x7"( preferably TIF or EPS or PSD). And just to be clear that includes: drawings, typography and graphic illustrations.

-More writers! I need more articles to be included!

-Creative Writing. I will be accepting creative writing submissions now also.

-General Design/Original Product- Fashion Garment, Product Design , Home Decor , Industrial Design, or any unique item that is your original design please submit it. Also if you have written and published a book that is- art/design/fashion/photography related submit that as well (I will have a small section to review products).

-Misc- If you have a creative idea that you think can be part of the magazine please submit it.

REMINDER: Please try to send all your images in high resolution (7x7" 305 dpi). Also do not send anything that describes negativity. I will not accept any image or work that includes SKULLS, BULLETS, GUNS, NUDITY and DRUGS or any symbolic image that is offensive and negative.

Rice Candy magazine will be mainly generated by the creative community but in a positive way. This will give an opportunity for those who have never, or want their work showcased in a magazine. This will also be a good addition to your portfolio. The deadline is DECEMBER 27th while there's space available.

SUBMIT NOW!


UPDATE 2011:

It's been almost 2 years... this never came to fruition... I will work on this again soon. If you have any serious ideas, comments or suggestions ...feel free to contact me. I just came back to start posting again on this blog. This update is as of: July 2011.

DDB for Anthon Berg Chocolates

From the breaking of the piece, to the color splash, this commercial was a joy to watch!.It was both stimulating and soothing to the eyes.

I like how they turn your attention at the beginning with the sounds of the chocolate being broken off, to the crackling bite, then zooming in to take your visual attention for a short and enjoyable journey. This commercial was well made and to the point, simply a delight.

CLICK PLAY AND SEE FOR YOURSELF

Commercial: Anthon Berg "Sense it"

DDB advertisement agency:http://www.ddb.com/

Sounds by plain8: http://www.plan8.se/index.php

When it comes to coffee

Not many times have I seen simple and logical design when it comes to the identity of a product like you see above by HGV.

Why can't other brands here in the U.S have a relative design concept to pair up with the identity of their main product when it comes to large cafes/coffee shops chains?. Just by looking at the pictures I am immediately craving a cup of coffee (or hot cocoa).

I never understood what the GREENS and the REDS had anything to do with coffee. Yet I keep seeing them in all the major coffee shops (in their logos, napkins, cups, etc, etc) Does anyone have an idea why they use those colors?

Not only did HGV Design ltd. use a relevant color, but as you can tell they also created custom fonts (to give a slight subliminal reminder). HGV definitely does NOT lack creativity or the injection of smart logical design!

More designs from HGV at:

http://www.hgv.co.uk/#section150

3 things you think about when you see ...

Art is all around you... and so are colors. In this article I would like to subtract an ingredient from the last post. As you noticed, the first (and possibly main) point of attraction in the last set of photographs was the color Red.

This time around I would like to get an opinion (as I will share mine first) about what exactly you think when you immediately see the color Red. The reason I ask is because this site is about creativity. And the ability to draw or paint, has nothing to do with having a CREATIVE mind.

Example: When I pick an article of clothing, food, gift, or any item with a dominant color, I immediately make a decision based on what that color reminds me of (most likely a hidden signal from my subconscious?). Sometimes that makes me take a positive or negative decision due to that judgment.

When I saw the color red the last time, I immediately thought about: Russia, Communism, and blood. This might seem funny, but that is what I honestly thought about initially when I saw the color. Many different things come to mind later but that is the root of my color matching criteria for Red. And due to this ... I believe it could be a slight creative block or maybe the other way around.

Since I have now shared my thoughts and opinions about the subject. I would like to get yours. I would like you to share 3 things that you immediately think about when you see the color RED.
It would be interesting to see a spectrum of thoughts and opinions about this color.

Provacative Red

It has been said that the color Red attracts positive energy. With that being said... I present to you three appealing photographs from Viola Violante.

At first, due to the reflection and angle in which she captured the Red photograph, made me wonder if it was a painting or an art installation and therefore became intriguing enough for me just to love it for what it was.

In the second picture: Are the tea leaves in a steeping state? Or are they being flushed? I am pleasantly distracted with the photograph that I quickly forget.

Last but not least... well, there is so much going on in this black & white photo. But at the same time there isn't. And it's because I can't understand the language. This in return makes me feel comfortable with all that information.

Overall I like the consistent quality and variety in Viola's photo collection. There are more interesting picks in her photostream. Take the time also to look at her profile, which makes her photographs a little more special.

Viola's profile at: http://www.flickr.com/people/viola_violante/

SEEDS

Another art piece from the artist "7R". I just couldn't pass up not posting this amazing illustration. I found this piece through the 1800 Tequila design submissions (my favorite bottle in the user gallery).

The name of this piece is called "Seeds". I like the interpretation of the leafs, buds and grass, and also how the seeds are presented in different sizes and stages. The other main ingredient is the drawing of the girl in grayscale, which to me is perfect and helps display all the green tones very well. Simply lovely and visually refreshing .

VOTE FOR THE ARTOF7R design! at : 1800 tequila.com , in the- user gallery- section.

THERE For Minton House

Here are a couple of photos of the Minton House brochure designed by THERE studios. This could almost pass as a high-end photography book!

Brochures can be: boring, basic and simple. But when presented in this manner, they definitely deserve to be looked at (and the project or product it represents).

As I look through their recent work list. I notice careful addition of details to their designs, like the flawless sewn binding above(that could seal the deal for potential clients). And in return makes me really wish I had such execution and discipline in my work. THERE is definitely a design group that pays attention closely to detail.

More samples of their work at: http://there.com.au/

Russell Frost

Great images by Pennsylvania based photographer Russell Frost. As I was browsing through his Flickr photostream the image above caught my attention right away. I love the reflection of colors in the water that was left behind by the rain.

The composition starts from the right- with the white and grey tones, to a spectrum of colors till the end. I love how all the colors stands out against the black the night brings. I have to say this is one of my favorite photographs I have come across this year. Makes me wish I was there!

Russell Frost's website: www.frostimaging.com/

Carlsberg 900 packaging

Minimal yet amazing packaging design by WERK studio. Only 200 of the Carlsberg 900 limited edition luxury beer with packaging were produced (all bottles were numbered).

Carlsberg in collaboration with WERK and BSP Marketing agency distributed this promotional package to only a few selected restaurants. Personally I am not a fan of beer, but I would love to have this box as a collection. The silver against the black is just perfect.

More from WERK design studio : http://www.werk.se/

Andrei Robu

Continuing to break down some of the artists from the Epos Visa 100 Card Design project, brings me to Graphic Illustrator Andrei Robu. Not only did he make my favorite card design from the Epos Visa Design project. But he's also building a solid client list and collection of work.

Above I am displaying one of Andrei Robu's recent typography work. I will keep a look out for more of Andrei's designs in the coming near future.

For more of Andrei's work check out his portfolio at: http://www.andreirobu.com/

Joao Oliveira

Not only is he one of the artist behind the "Epos-Visa 100 Card Design" project ( 2 prior entries ). But Joao has also quite the graphics/illustration portofolio with a collection of great pieces (like the one pictured above).

"The Great Pyramid" mixed with colorful details in the middle and light metallic undertones in a black background ... what else can you ask for? Simply on point!

Joao's Portfolio at : http://biomachina.deviantart.com/gallery/

Electro- Music, and the politics behind the movement with: Dada Yakuza

I am always interested to know how music and sounds, affect people. I am almost certain that it's the other way around a lot of times too, I think people affect the music that is being created by an artist.

At one point an artist or band can have a sound and style they intend to initially express to their listeners. But through interaction and attention from their fans, they transform to a new sound and identity. This is sometimes due to the popularity they might have found in a song, sound, or the fashion of their deliverance (that by chance they stumbled upon).

Other bands are directly or indirectly influenced by other currently popular bands and follow the trend. And more commonly and simply, some bands just come made-to-order (by what the fans want), they are the product of commercialism and they play it safe, for the insurance to become hit.

A lot of us don't care and ignore these facts (as long as we like the style and we are entertained by the music the artists create). With that in mind, one of those styles and movements I am highly attracted to currently is: the Electro movement. Whether its rap, rock or pop, mixed with electronic elements to present this new futuristic/robotic/hybrid/modern-synth-rock/indie style, I am all ears!

A band that is emerging in the music scene that makes this music enjoyable for me to continue listening to is DADA YAKUZA (I have written a previous post about them here on Ricecandy). Now I have invited them to share their thoughts about: what creating music means to them, and what they think about this movement that is infused with the "electric youth" generation.


RC: My curiosity wants to get this out of the way first. I know there are 2 members that make up Dada Yakuza, but how do you like to be described as - A duo or group?

DY: DAdA YakUza is an entity. Sound, image and vibe. It's there if you feel it.


RC: How does a song come to fruition, do you come up with the sound first, or the idea first. Or is one, the product of the other (depending on the order) ...then later welded together?

DY: It's intuition that gets the songs started. Then it's a lot of experimenting and editing. It stops when it feels right or it never stops.


RC: What do you foresee in the future, for all electronic music - in the next couple of years? And will that affect Dada Yakuza in any way?

DY: Electro is the new rock. Like whatever forms of music, it's here to stay and it'll evolve continuously. It may go in and out of popularity but there will always be an audience.
DAdA YakUza does what it likes.


RC: Do you think this style is getting overdone? Does it have a risk to drop like a bad stock?

DY: It's over once you hear it in car commercials, but people have to eat. Good artists will take it to the next level.


RC: The internet has revolutionized how we hear and stay informed about today's music. What are some of the elements you see that the internet has brought to music, and what has been taken away as well?

DY: The great thing about the internet is how any musician can put themselves out there globally without a label and tons of cash. Artists are also able to exchange ideas and influence each other on a global scale. I can't think of anything bad.


RC: In your opinion what is the percent of pure originality now-a-days? Or is everyone a victim of the common influential cycle.

DY: It's always been the same. Artists and trends influence each other whether it's Picasso or Daft Punk. Certain individuals will shine through.


RC:Last but not least, iPod: a fashion accessory or an mp3 player?

DY:Best thing since sliced bread.



You can listen to DaDA at: http://profile.myspace.com/index.cfm?fuseaction=user.viewprofile&friendID=172339810

Epos Special Edition Visa - 100 Card Designs (100 Artists)

A collaborative project for Epos, Visa and Japans leading fashion stores Marui Co.

This special edition collection of credit cards where designed by 100 artists around the world and each card has a limited run of 1000 pieces(commissioned through Bleed Studios). So many great credit card designs, I did not know which one to show here.

You can look at the rest of the designs at: http://www.eposcard.co.jp/campaign/100designcards/

Colors Magazine # 74

I wanted to mention about The COLORS #74 (summer 2008) issue earlier this month, but never got around to it. This issue was published to show people -who where not aware of the impact that the Sichuan earthquake had- through captivating photos of the victims and the damage it cause in the city.

I am glad that this issue was made to give a positive message and to collect prayers from readers all over. I myself was not aware how much destruction and impact this had until I read and saw the pictures in their latest issue. Definitely not an issue to miss, if you have a chance get it.

You can leave a prayer at : http://www.colorsmagazine.com/victims/

0% plastic bag by Gap

Gap card members where mailed a coupon about a week ago to receive a free re-usable bag at any Gap store. The Gap has been doing a lot of creative changes to their clothing line and identity. This past year they hired new designers, slimmed down their cuts(making them more fitted ) and updated their overall look. I recall the main reason I stayed away from Gap was because their style was out-of-date, and their clothes where always so wide(and that really bothered me). I am for the firs time in about a decade liking some of their products again (like their low rise straight-fit 1969 jeans).

With that being said... the "0% plastic" bag you see pictured above really calls my attention (although I would have liked the main design stitched rather then screen printed). The over-lock sewn finish around the borders gives it more of a crafted look, and brings out the dimension to the bag.

Update: I had previously posted the" 0% plastic" design was embroidered, but later I received a tip that someone left in the comment section (which later led for me to look at the bag myself) that it was not an embroidered design. And it is indeed just as the anonymous tip stated.

Lori Hersberger

"Ghostrider" by Lori Hersberger. Great art intallation made with such simplicity and minimalism of a neon light. And yet another black back drop, I am a sucker for them.

Now imagine remixing this with Ferry Corsten's "Twice In A Blue Moon" album cover?... man that would be awesome!.

Other work at:http://www.flickr.com/photos/lorihersberger/

Micah Spear

Just a couple of great photos from Micah's photo collection. I couldn't decide which one to post, and just decided to post both. I love the flower with that black backdrop (Midnight Bloom). As you can already tell I love black backgrounds.

The "Storm in Japan" picture is purely epic and translates the feel of the moment very well.

More at:http://micahspear.com/Photography.html

Twice In A Blue Moon- Album Cover Art

Regardless if you are a Ferry Corsten fan or not, this album cover to me is simply beautiful.

Maybe because I like line-art a lot, or the simple fact that is against a black background. Just that minimal awesome style, combined with a modern look, makes this album cover look amazing. I love all the colors that are glowing out of the logo in that linear shine.

I should start paying attention more often to album cover art.

Venice Architecture Biennale

Video report from Venice Architecture Biennale at: monocle.com. The Monocle is always a source of news and inspiration for me. Their video reports are the best! Short, and to point. Makes me wish I was there .

http://www.monocle.com/sections/design/Web-Articles/Venice-Architecture-Diary---Part-2/

Distill Magazine #1

For those of you who are interested in fashion and style, Distill Magazine should be an essential bi-monthly publication for you to browse through. Distill showcases a collection of some of the best photography and other creative content in current magazines from around the world.

Visually, you will be attracted to this issue immediately. This magazine definitely falls in my top 10 list of periodicals. Wish I could show you the inside pages, the photography that has been collected in this 1st issue, is amazing!

Electric Touch

I need new music!. I barely find out about Electric Touch , and they are definitely something to add to my spice-rack.

A couple of tracks that stand out to me are: "Give Me A Sign" and "love In Our Hearts". I need more new music!

www.myspace.com/electrictouchmusic

1800 Tequila window display

I finally get to see the 1800 Tequila limited edition bottles in person. But more importantly I loved the window display at this particular location (first that I find). Only a few selected stores got the artist bottles (I was told by the clerk inside only 1800 where made of each bottle).

I definitely have 2 favorites from the 9 bottles in the series (Chris Dean, and Hannah Stouffer). I usually just place 1 picture per post, but I love the art on these bottles and the window display is perfect.

More info of at:http://www.1800tequila.com/

Don Ungaro Photography

Just found a few interesting photos on Flickr by Don Ungaro. I like the different styles he has in his photostream. I love the warm red color, captured in this tunnel shot you see above.

More of his photos at:

http://www.flickr.com/photos/ungui/

Darkness Falls Forever

If you are in the L.A area and want to see new pieces by Hannah Stouffer, you can do so at Gallery 554. The gallery showcase is from November 15th till December 10th (opening reception Nov. 15th from 7 -11pm).

I first learned of Hannah's work through the art she did for 1800 Tequila. I would love to see her work in person. If I go, I will bring back pictures and post them here on ricecandy (for those of you who wont be able to make it).

Gallery FIVE FIVE FOUR

554 S. Western Ave

Los Angeles, CA 90020

Nouveau Motley

More amazing pieces made out of metal! yes indeed.

I found this awesome ring design fom artisan Nouveau Motley. Made out of sterling silver. The ring has an automatic self winding mechanism that spins around when you make motion. What a great idea! It looks like something out of a sci-fi movie!.

Check out the rest of her stuff in her shop at:

http://www.etsy.com/shop.php?user_id=18695

Let's Rewind

My apologies for not being able to post here more often. I have been stuck with everything else this past couple of weeks. From : drawing, designing, writing, brainstorming ideas for a small clothing line- for a store here in so. Cal. And I am also working on packaging designs (which I am seeing alot of positive results). Also enjoying vegan food, left, and right (maybe enjoying it too much!) Like the kind they serve at- Vegan House!.

I guess I am slightly addicted to the hectic blender I am in. But all-and-all, I am loving it. And I am glad to be back hunting for fun unique stuff. I don't like to RECYCLE the same boring posts you find all over the internet.

I mean... what is the point of writing an article about something you will see in about 10 other sites. I like to- somewhat bring more original and fresh posts here to rice candy.

I am also looking for : new Music!, Art, Photography and awesome creative minds. All of you out there reading, submit your work!. I will also make an effort to interview some of the people I have featured here on Ricecandy, as much as I can.




Quick interesting quote I recently heard-

"Whatever lasts forever, is what everyone desires without question.
But if It's not eternal, everything is an illusion."