D: All Things Digital is known for its dedication for serving its readers the latest news, analysis and opinion on technology, the Internet, and media. Because the D conference is so unique, it was important for them to find a submission that stood out from the rest. After reviewing some performances that were submitted, D11 and Talenthouse are now pleased to announce the winner.

Congratulations, DSharp The-Violinist!

DSharp The-Violinist will be invited to perform live at the D11 Conference at the Tarranea Resort in Rancho Palos Verdes, California. He has also won a $1000 cash prize and exposure for his submission at AllThingsD.com.

People’s Choice Award

Congratulations to our finalist, Frank Moschetto! Frank will not only receive $500, but he will also have his submission featured on AllThingsD.com.

We would like to thank those who submitted their wonderful performances! Keep an eye out for our next Creative Invite and don’t forget to support for your favorite artists.

Tour posters are an important part of live music culture – we rip them down, we take them home and we stick them up. They do, of course, also serve to advertise the gigs and so your poster design needs to be something that will not only be visually stunning but clear and concise in terms of content.

This is a brilliant opportunity for any artists and designers out there, particularly those with an interest in music. If chosen as the winning design by Jamie, your poster will gain a huge amount of coverage both online and in various external locations. It will be seen by thousands of people and, who knows, it may even find its way onto a few bedroom walls. The winning design will also receive a $1,000 cash prize and a Yamaha keyboard, so get designing and you could be taking your first steps towards being the next Jamie Cullum.

Submissions must be in by May 29, 2013.

TH: Designing for a space like that in the contest, where do you start? For an office, what is the feel you are looking for?
Alan: When working with client, and not for a competition, we would start by gaining a deep understanding of the company you are working with. What is their culture? What are their goals? How do their people work now and what do they need to work more efficiently?

For the HP Microsoft Smart Office Challenge, we wanted to emphasize flexibility and collaboration. We also wanted to take full advantage of the HP and Microsoft technology of course, while making the technology seamless and transparent. Our design process literally mimicked the product we were creating, just as the ideal workspace should mimic how people actually work. It was really about giving people the ability to create their own scalable and customizable offices; to give people options.

The workspace should conform to people, not the other way around. It should provide personal space when people want it, and collaborative spaces to encourage the free exchange of ideas and energy. Creating a physical manifestation of the modern work environment was a challenge. Since we can work anywhere now thanks to mobile technology, it’s not effective to create costly spaces, in terms of real estate, utilities, and furniture, which are not going to be occupied much of the time.

We also wanted to focus on the entire office space and not confine it to only a person’s immediate workspace. What happens in the negative space surrounding desks can be equally as important as what happens at the desk itself.

We saw this as part of an evolution from cubicles to mountable wall systems to something like the MIMIC, which is a stand-alone, scalable system. Many workers don’t need a designated desk anymore; they just need space that serves their needs wherever they are.

TH: When you start on a project, do you work on your computer or a tablet or is it pen and ink?
Zac: The very first thing I do when starting a project is to research the particular industry and needs of the end-user. I would liken it to a scientific-methodology, trying to prove the worth of the concept, making sure it hasn’t been done before, and constructing boundaries for myself that will inform the design process down the road. These often include, but certainly are not limited to: budget, time, manufacturing processes, and, engineering and material constraints. Immediately after research however, is definitely still hand sketching with pen, pencil and markers.

Alan: My involvement is much more upstream with regard to decision making for the “go or no/go”, and once ‘go’ will be involved in discussions about concept and participation in the charettes and review of ideas. If I sketch at all, it is ‘old school’ and others develop the ideas on PC or Tablet.

TH: How much collaboration went into the design itself?
Alan: There was considerable collaboration. We had a team of about 12 people and everyone contributed. We held many design charrettes. The combination of architectural firm and industrial design firm was interesting in that we discussed all aspects of the user experience while also using other mediums to inform our own work. This multi-disciplinary approach brought out a wider range of ideas. The discussions about how people interact with technology were really interesting.

The team included three generations and that helped us include ideas that appeal to a wide range of people, working styles, and technological preferences. Rather than have a different design for each group, I think we made the right call in creating one system dynamic enough for users to adjust to their own needs.

TH: Were there particulars that you wanted to include from the beginning or did it evolve over time? Were there things you thought might have been great but just didn’t work out?
Alan: This is part of an evolution from cubicles to mountable wall systems to something like MIMIC, which is a stand-alone, scalable system. I don’t need a designated desk; I just need space that serves my needs wherever I am

TH, for Zac: There’s quite an array of different things on your website, from skateboards to wallhangers. What kind of things do you prefer to design for, or is anything fair game?

Zac: I work almost exclusively consulting for clients, as opposed to being a designer/maker as was the case for some of my earlier work you referenced, and my focus has been primarily design development and manufacturing. I am equally capable, and interested, in working on the design of a cabinet pull, as I am doing for a client right now, as I am working with a furniture manufacturer to expand their brand by designing additional lines. Each type of project presents its own challenges, but overcoming those directly serves to enhance the design of the next project.

TH, for Alan: MulvannyG2 has some huge corporate clients as well as quite a bit of work in China going on. How is it to switch from massive projects like those to tiny ones like an office space? Is there a point where the intimate, like a techy cube, and the macro, like a mixed-use development, meet?

Alan: There is a huge difference in scale of course, but in the end it’s all about the user experience. You must ensure that the space is inspiring and conducive to its particular use. You have to create places that people want to be. Circulation and flow is also critical, and this is true whether you’re dealing with how people move and interact across a single floor of office space or across a massive mixed-use development.

TH: How did it come about that you would work together?
Zac: Alan and I are family and have worked together to design furniture previously. He asked if I would be interested in partnering with MG2 on this competition because it seemed to require a balance between architectural and industrial design.

Alan: When the competition was originally presented to me by my staff in DC, I signed off on it and began to think about our team, what components were important and how we would approach the problem. I felt it was more than Workplace and saw the need for an Industrial Designer to be part of the team, knowing this would add an important and needed voice. Zac and I had worked together previously developing a concept for a furniture system that explored some of the ideas I felt were important to our solution, and invited him to join our team.

TH: What was the biggest takeaway from the Alt Design Summit?
Zac: Alt was attended by over 700 people that all work exactly the way we proposed the ideal user for MIMIC would work. Technology for Alt attendees was not something only accessible or utilized at their office, but was a seamlessly accessed part of every moment throughout the conference. Alt reinforced our hypothesis that digital nesting will imminently supersede the necessity for personal office space, as in, no matter who you are or what you do, you bring that sense of comfort and productivity with you at all times.

Alan: I visited the event on the pre-opening day on my way to a meeting on the West Coast to meet Melissa and the HP team, and to see the mockup in construction. Zac attended with one of the young designers from MG2. I felt it was important to share this kind of success with the team and let others represent us.

TH: A little tongue-in-cheek here, but are you guys always walking around being critical of spaces or structures? Like wondering what someone was thinking when they designed a room layout or a building, seeing what could be better? Or is it always inspiration all the time?

Alan: Inspiration is everywhere, and it can come from spaces you love as well as spaces you don’t think work very well. If anything, we know how challenging it can be to create inspiring and functional places, so we try not to be too critical. It’s easy to second guess.

And yes, we are critical, and sometimes cynical, but in the end we are all about design and problem solving in the most creative way possible.

Congratluations to MulvannyG2 and Zac & Co. on the MIMIC Design!

The Summerland Tour is coming back to America and performing at a whopping thirty-five cities across the entire nation. Uniting rock bands Everclear, Live, Filter, and Sponge, Summerland 2013 will be a can’t miss fixture of this summer for any rock music fans.

To celebrate the return of the Summerland tour, the bands are inviting all photographers, both professional and aspiring professionals to show us your best live event snapshots for a chance to win two tickets and a photo pass to a stop along the tour and social media exposure on Everclear’s Facebook page.

A runner-up will also win a pair of tickets to the show and the highest voted picture will earn the photographer a pair of tickets to a stop on the tour along with an exclusive merchandise package made for the tour.

Photographers, you have until June 16, 2013 to enter your images. We’re excited to see your work!

Talenthouse are extremely happy to be able to join forces with Benga in inviting producers to remix his track ‘Forefather’, the first release from his forthcoming album Chapter II. As fans of a cheeky boogie ourselves, we know as well as you do what potential this creative invite holds to springboard aspiring producers into the limelight. Often, it is through an involvement with a tune such as ‘Forefather’ that producers reach significant recognition a crossover track also featuring grime star Kano, your attached remix could be heard by a huge demographic of listeners.

A lot of ears inevitably leads to a lot of love which, in turn, bears further opportunity and increasing recognition. Along with a $1500 cash prize, the winning remix can expect to benefit from advertisement through Benga’s online channels. For producers and DJs looking to move from the bedroom to the billboard charts, opportunities like this do rarely come about!

To participate, follow the link to download the track stems and find out more.

Listen to Benga’s original ‘Forefather’ featuring Kano.

Deadline for submissions is May 30, 2013.

To commemorate this summer, the band is inviting aspiring photographers to show them their best live event photography for a chance to photograph the band this summer.

The Barenaked Ladies‘ will choose their favorite submission and the winner will receive two tickets and a photo pass for the tour stop closest to the winner and social media exposure for their concert images on the bands Facebook page. With over 344,000 Facebook fans, this is an exciting opportunity for an photographer. An additional three winners will also be awarded two tickets and a photo pass for the 2013 Last Summer on Earth Tour. The highest voted image will also earn the People’s Choice award and a pair of tickets to a stop on the tour along with an exclusive merchandise package.

With so many winners and rad prizes, don’t miss out on this Creative Invite! Read more on the rules and enter by June 6, 2013.

Good luck and we’re looking forward to seeing your work.

We all love the summer with its long nights and beaming sunshine, the festivals and the light-it-and-pray disposable BBQs. Really, it’s all we’ve been thinking about since we got into bed on New Year’s Day with the highlights of winter having passed us by in a blurry flash of apple pie and uncomfortable waits at the bus stop.

It’s something that Billabong are keen to celebrate with us too. Their Billabong Girls ‘dream in colours’ campaign is all about embracing the bright colours of summer – the pinks of a beach sunset, the bright blue ocean, the neon face paint you forgot you were wearing – and they want your help in capturing these moments. Impress them with your take on the bright bold colours of summer and you could find yourself with an AAA pass to their Design for Humanity event at the famous MGM Tower in LA on August 16, 2013 photographing alongside Billabong’s official photography team as well as receiving $1000 in cash.

To win, simply submit a photo that captures Billabong’s Dream in Colours’ concept and include the text “Billabong Girls Dream in Colours” within the image.

Let’s shake off those winter blues and kickstart summer with a bit of colour! Submissions are due July 2, 2013.

Talenthouse is more than delighted to share with our readers what we’ve discovered about him.

I now shoot mainly travel videos for boutique companies and commercial projects for various clients such as Nokia and Reebok.

TH: What made you want to do these?
ED: Traveling with my camera was always something on my mind through my time at college, if I’m honest, I never really had any intentions of going to university to study photography as I felt that I would further myself and my work if I was to just get out there and do it.

I know it sounds cliche, but it’s really where my head was. By traveling with friends at such a young age, I feel I built up my confidence to take on commissions all over the world. I love the pace of travel commissions and the situations and places it can lead to.

TH: Do you have any other interests or hobbies?
ED: I’m really into food and wine and love to get involved with the gastronomy of the places I am lucky enough to visit. One fond memory is eating filet steak and drinking tasty red wine with the Prime Minister of The British Virgin Islands while on a film project for their tourism board. I am also a keen mountain biker.

TH: How did you become involved with our Creative Invites?
ED: I began to see a strong presence of Talenthouse on social media platforms and had to sign up for sure!

TH: What advice do you give people who are in need of inspiration?
ED: Make a cup of tea or brew some fresh coffee and go do something different from your usual routine. Ideas will come when you’re not expecting!

Ed On The Web: Portfolio | Talenthouse

My story is solely about finding my true voice in this world.

I found the above in a blog on the Huffington Post by Karen Ruimy about herself. It defines her. Find any article about her music, her writing, her show and you will find exactly that, whether it’s in her own words, or said by the interviewer. And it’s why she shines.

Born to a Jewish family in Casablanca (yes, that Casablanca), they immigrated when she was very young to Paris. There, she grew up, attending college, getting her MBA and landing a high-profile job at a bank.

But after many very successful years there, she decided “something had broken” when all the passion for her career had dried up. She’d always studied and done well. She competed successfully in what has traditionally been the arena of men. But it wasn’t enough. What did she do? She walked away and charted a different path. Several paths, actually.

She’s an author, writing out her own spiritual insights and mantras in her books The Angel’s Metamorphosis and The Voice of the Angel, which have both been well received. A third book is forthcoming and in the same vein.

At the age of 37, she became a professional dancer and has produced and performed in a few shows in Paris and London, and has another, Sangré, in the works.

She also helped found the Gender Rights & Equality Action Trust Initiative that believes “if you save the women, you save the family, then the whole community.” GREAT collaborates with governments and NGOs to empower women with opportunities to flourish.

And, of course, she’s a singer and songwriter, working with successful world music producers Justin Adams and Youth on her latest album, Come With Me. It fuses influences from her native Morocco with catchy Western rhythms and pop sounds. This is the album that’s the focus of our Creative Invite.

She’s not someone content to let the world slide by, while there’s something to get done. She’s seen the chances, seen the needs, listened to her own calling to make that way. Now is the chance the step up and do the same.

Taking his stage name from the iconic breed of dog known for its ferocity and the mentality that “it’s too stupid to lose”, Armando Christian Perez grew up in Florida the son of Cuban immigrants.  As he puts it in an interview at the Wall Street Journal, being a “blue-eyed, light skinned Cuban American from Miami” was “four strikes” against him in rap. He didn’t give up. Just like a pit bull.

Pitbull has had 8 top ten hits on Billboard so far in his career and many more around the world. He’s performed with the likes of Ne-Yo, Jennifer Lopez, Chris Brown, and Christina Aguilera. He’s won 22 awards. And it doesn’t look like he’s letting up on cranking out the tunes anytime soon.

But, by being someone who has received so much attention around the world, he gets the negative with the positive and he takes it like a champ.

For example, Walmart held a contest on Facebook last year to see which store could garner the most likes and win an appearance by Pitbull at the store. It went from a promotional activity to prank when the most remote store in the US in Kodiak, Alaska was the winner. That’s right, Alaska and the remotest Walmart store in the continental US. They received more than 70,000 likes, which is more than 10x the population of Kodiak itself!

But ever the consummate performer, knowing its the fans that get you there, not only did Pitbull go to Kodiak, he received a key to the city and he had the orchestrator of the prank, writer David Thorpe, along for the ride.

As he says, in a video response to the win,

It’s no wonder he has the following he does.

After lending his songs to various soundtracks on TV and film, he’s getting a starring role. At least his unmistakable voice is. He plays the character Bufo, a cynical bullfrog, in the upcoming animated film Epic from Blue Sky Studios, a film about elves and animals fighting for their forest.

His is quite the story. In just a little more than 10 years, he’s gone from a collaborator to the head of his own media empire. With that kind of confidence and knowing that his loyalties lie with his fans, it’s easy to see why he’s become Mr. Worldwide.

The portrait of Pitbull in the suit is from Billboard.

The image referencing the Alaska trip was found on this page.

In 2012 London’s Haywood Gallery held it’s notorious ‘Invisible’ art exhibition whilst composer John Cage‘s piece ’4.33′ consists of three movements, all of which silence. What’s more, Cage’s ‘Lecture on Nothing’ is also a brilliant discourse on the subject; expounded is the idea that nothing is most definitely something.

Nothing and doing simply nothing can, as it seems, can be both the barer and subject of great creativity. Doing nothing can, in certain circumstances, allow ideas and concepts to flow freely; coming to us through a natural progression, blossoming rather than being forced to grow within a false artificial environment. It is these, the ideas borne from nothing, that Mark Owen looks to celebrate in his own toast to nothingness The Art of Doing Nothing. Having begun with no real artistic direction or end product in mind, Owen originally began The Art of Doing Nothing as an animation project. As it became a musical one, he initially avoided any vocal input on his own part. Consequently the resulting album is a collaborative effort borne out of strong visual as well as musical beginnings enlisting the help of Alt-J producer Charlie Russell and Ren Harvieu.

In our latest Creative Invite we’ve teamed up with Mark to explore the notion of doing nothing and how, in many respects, this can aid creativity. Mark invites creatives of all disciplines to help him explore the ‘art of doing nothing’ whether through visual art, photography, prose, poetry or music, he wants to see your take on how the process of doing nothing can, in the end, create something.

Mark’s choice will receive ｣1,000, have their work sold officially through Mark’s charity and see their work featured across Mark’s online channels.

Talenthouse is all about the EDM scene, so we’re pumped to be hosting a Creative Invite with veteran DJ Benny Benassi, creator of hits including “Satisfaction” and “Beautiful People” featuring Chris Brown. Benny Benassi is calling on you to send in your very own karaoke-like version of his GRAMMY-Award winning track “Cinema” featuring Gary Go.

Our advice is to take some risks and do your best to make sure your entry stands out, whether it be from wearing crazy costumes or taking some creative license and singing in your own unique style. If you’re stuck in a creative rut and on the hunt for ideas, check out some of our favorite song covers to inspire your own unique version of “Cinema.” We can’t wait to view your submissions – here’s to hoping they go viral!

To kick off our song cover compilation, take a look at Rosette covering ‘Cinema.’

Look At Me Now by Chris Brown covered by Karmin Music

Titanium by David Guetta covered by Christina Grimmie

Radioactive by Linsey Stirling and Pentatonix

We look forward to hearing your submission by July 8, 2013!

Go check the current list of speakers and see why.

Tim Cook, CEO of Apple…Kazuo Hirai, President of Sony…Anne Sweeney, President of Disney/ABC TV… there’s an exec from Pinterest, another from Twitter, a head honcho from Google… and that’s just a quarter of the list. And they say they are adding people.

Now’s your chance to join that lineup, the digerati, performing your music. Jazz. EDM. Rock. Folk. Hip-hop. It doesn’t matter. They want innovative. They want cutting edge. The folks on that list are movers and shakers in their fields and that’s the kind of people they are looking for to perform at D11.

Think you have what it takes? If you are a US resident, submit your original performance by May 16, 2013 and you’re in the running! Think of the ears that will hear you. Think of the audience you’ll have. Good luck!

Talenthouse has launched its second Creative Invite with celebrity-magnet lifestyle brand LimoLand! Help LimoLand design their upcoming Zodiac-inspired collection.

Are you an airy Aquarius? Submit a piece of what the ideal water-bearer looks like to you!

Are you a sassy Scorpio? Submit a design of what the scorpion means to you!

A little about LimoLand…LimoLand is the brainchild of its European founder and creative director, Jean “Johnny” Pigozzi. Read more about Mr. Pigozzi and his colorful life story here. 

The brand’s logo and namesake, Mr. Limo, is based on work of the late Tanzanian artist George Lilanga.  

“I really feel that LimoLand brings happiness to people. There are plenty of crazy and colorful clothes being made for kids, but often people over 30 who wear clothes like that look quite ridiculous. That is the market I am interested in,” Pigozzi has said about LimoLand, which opened its flagship store in New York City’s Meatpacking District in 2010.

LimoLand and the Judges’ Choice

Jean Pigozzi, together with Barneys New York Creative Director Dennis Freedman and Founder LEITZES&CO Cary Leitzes, will select 12 designs – one overall and an additional 11 – each of which will represent one of the 12 Zodiac Signs. The overall winner will have their Zodiac design sold on LimoLand’s official website under the ‘SHOP’ section. In addition, the winner will receive:

• $1,000
• Exposure for their submission which will be displayed in the LimoLand store in New York’s Meatpacking district and on LimoLand’s Facebook page.

An additional 11 winners, as selected by Jean Pigozzi and the judges, will be considered eligible for inclusion in LimoLand’s upcoming ‘Zodiac’ collection. Additionally the winners will each receive:

• $500
• Exposure for their submission which will be displayed in the LimoLand store in New York’s Meatpacking district and on LimoLand’s Facebook page

People’s Choice

The highest voted artist will receive:

• $500
• Exposure for their submission across LimoLand’s social media channels

Submit Your Designs by June 20, 2013!

• →
• Here’s everything you need to get started.
• Take Me to the Creative Invite!

This project reached 966,542 people. Active participants averaged:

• +37 New Supporters
• +110 Shares & Comments
• +11,801 Social Reach

You watched Olympus Has Fallen ignite the big screen with stars like Gerard Butler, Morgan Freeman and Aaron Eckhart. Scottish actor and star of the film Gerard Butler invited artists from our community to submit a piece inspired from the action-packed White House thriller.

As we’re sure you heard, Michael Garzarelli won the early bird submission prize. That said, we received tons of creative submissions, and after much deliberation, our winners have been announced!

Winner: Mason Mullin

“Cardinal Red” By Mason Mullins

As the grand prize winner, Mason is set to receive a copy of his winning design signed by Gerard Butler. Keep an eye out for Gerard’s promotion of Mason’s winning image on Facebook and Twitter!

His design will also be framed and hung at Millennium Film Studios and featured as the Facebook timeline photo on Gerard Butler’s Facebook page. Last but not least, Mason is looking at a very spiffy $3000 cash prize. Way to go, Mason!

Finalist: Cetera Design

“Taking the Olympus Back” By Cetera Design

Cetera Design will receive $500 and have their artwork tweeted by Gerard Butler.

“This artwork captures the intensity of the film, driven by the wonderful cast of actors, including Gerard Butler. Agent Banning (Butler), a Secret Service agent previously assigned to Presidential Detail, is ready to take action to protect the Office of the President, reclaim his career by making things right and serving his country. I hope you like it and vote.”

People’s Choice: Sheyla Ramirez

“Olympus Has Fallen” By Sheyla Ramirez

“When I first saw the posters and trailer of this movie, this design came to my mind. This is a powerful design of the movie and this is vector work, so you can use it anywhere freely without any resolution problems.”

Thank you to all who submitted your work and participated during the voting period. Find artists you like and support each other. Help us keep our community going strong!

As lead singer Philip Labonte says about their songs:

Now, All That Remains are giving you the chance to create the music video for their latest single “Asking Too Much.” It’s a hard hitting song that relates to the pain we’ve all felt losing a relationship and those desires to win that person back, even when it’s over.

What’s it take to win here? Create an original video that came from your own imagination, created by your blood, sweat, and laughter, or tears, if you prefer. Upload it to Vimeo or YouTube and there you go. If your video is chosen by All That Remains, it will get a ton of love on their social media and YouTube page, as well as a feature on their site and $2000. The video voted People’s Choice also gets some Facebook promotion and a cash prize.

It’s a great opportunity from a hard working band with a dedicated following.

The Music

The Great Gatsby soundtrack boasts some of the hottest artists of this year, from will.i.am to The xx. The majority of the songs were created exclusively for the film and the tailoring really shows in the 1920′s flair they exhibit.

Jay-Z, the producer of the album, also slings his own rap “100$ Bill.” Beyonce is a mainstay of the album as she does her own take on Amy Winehouse‘s “Back to Black” on her Into the Past cover of the song with André 3000. Former Creative Invite hostess Emeli Sandé also showcases her vocals on an big band edition of Beyonce’s “Crazy in Love.” Lana Del Rey‘s new song “Young and Beauiful” is a mesmerizing edition to the soundtrack. Nero adds an EDM presence to the soundtrack with “Into the Past.”

The Fashion

With costumes designed by Miuccia Prada, the breathtaking wardrobe featured in The Great Gatsby lives up to its Italian fashion house name. Prada took a contemporary approach to the dress in the film, adopting heavy influence from the 1920s style but portraying it in a 21st century way.

A Prada sketch for the film.

See some more original Prada sketches for the film right here.

With its vibrance and intensity, the bold colors and intricate designs and beadwork featured on the dresses worn by cast members wow the viewers and add to the decadence portrayed. In film set in the heart of the Roaring Twenties we totally love the way the flapper style is channeled to fit the new, more modern approach to The Great Gatsby.

Baz and Leo

This isn’t the first time Baz Luhrmann’s sassy storytelling has met his flashy cinematography in a big screen adaptation of your favorite high school lit class assignment. Before a little movie called Titanic was released,  Leonardo DiCaprio was catapulted into hardcore 90′s heartthrob status by Luhrmann’s Romeo + Juliet.

“I love long-term relationships with actors, because with really great actors no matter how many layers you peel away, there’s always an undiscovered layer to them. In the work I do, that’s the really thrilling part… and it’s a nourishing thing to do,” Luhrmann said in this interview last year.

Photo credit: Justin Riddler

The Australian director also admitted recently, “It was slightly nerve-making, for both of us. When I first knew him, when I worked with him, he was 19.”

Fun fact: Leonardo diCaprio and costar Tobey Maguire have been close friends since the late 1980s, when they would frequently audition for the same acting roles. Here’s a handy record of their Bromance. 

But it’s not just the cast we’re excited for. A mere 10 seconds of trailer time could let any cinemaphile know that the film promises to deliver the same lush, vibrant cinematography that nearly stole the show in 2001′s Moulin Rouge. Among our favorite descriptions of Luhrmann’s work is that the director has a “penchant for candy-colored displays.”

Given Luhrmann’s nationality, it’s not much of a surprise that Australia subs in for Long Island in the film.

Tour the set in photographs here.

What aspect of The Great Gatsby are you the most excited for? Leave us a comment and tell us what you think!

We came across Youtube’s very own Creator Playbook Guide which explains various strategies for successfully using their services to get the most beneficial social media exposure possible. Here we will give you the rundown of the best strategies to help you raise your view counts and put you on the right track to becoming Youtube famous.

Optimize Your Videos and Channel for Better Discovery

The majority of videos watched are found through search results so artists should ensure that they’re making good use of their metadata. This includes the title of your video, the tags, the description, and the thumbnail image associated. Titles and tags should always employ highly searched keywords such as a song tittle or the artist’s name. Tags can be less specific and include general terms. These are the keywords that your viewers will be searching for so make sure you cover all your bases.

Make Your Youtube Channel Release Ready

Your Youtube Channel definitely needs to have a user friendly layout that viewers can easily navigate. You don’t want your audience to be confused while trying to find your content so make sure your videos are well organized. Depending on how you want to market your content you can choose from a single channel, multi channel, or curator layout. These can all be tailored to your specific goals as an artist.

Artists can use their Youtube channel to promote their soon to be released content such as songs or albums. Your Youtube channel is a main component of this and should be part of your strategy. You can build buzz and raise viewership by releasing promotional videos like artists interviews, trailers for upcoming songs, and behind-the-scenes videos.

Stay Active and Engage with Fans

To keep your viewers interested, you should make sure to regularly update the content you provide. Creating and uploading videos takes a lot of time and energy, so in between new releases you can like, comment and add videos to playlists. All this activity is featured on your channel feed, so you can use these features to share with your audience content that you like.

Collaborating with other Youtube musicians and artists with similar audience demographics as you is also useful for keeping your page updated and reaching out to more supporters. If you work with other artists, make sure you ask for social media promotions on their end and reciprocate on your own.

Your fans want to be involved with you, otherwise they wouldn’t be following you. It is important to make them feel like they have exclusive access to you, which you can achieve by providing them with exclusive offers such as merchandise or simply doing shout outs in videos. Holding a live chat with fans can provide helpful feedback on what they’re looking for from your end so you can ensure you’re providing them with content they’ll appreciate.

Check out the rest of Youtube’s Creator Playbook for more help in developing your own personalized Youtube gameplan.

With the music video holding over 7 million views on Youtube and the Skrillex remix of the song having over a whopping 22 million views, it seems impossible that anyone has not heard the fun club hit Cinema by Benny Benassi, featuring Gary Go. Cinema even won Benny Bennasi a GRAMMY-Award. To celebrate the success of this hit single, Benassi is inviting Talenthouse members to film and submit their own karaoke-esque cover video of the song.

Benassi wants your videos to be as creative as possible, so don’t be afraid to get crazy. Dressing up in costumes, filming at an out of the box location, or doing anything to help you stand out is highly encouraged.

All eligible videos submitted will be featured in a chorus version of ‘Cinema’ and the grand prize winner will also receive a travel stipend worth up to $1000 and a two-night stay at a 5-Star Las Vegas hotel to attend a Benny Benassi performance, courtesy of Ultra Music and Marquee Nightclub and Dayclub.

The grand prize winner will also get an exclusive editorial feature through Vibe Magazine as well as valuable social media exposure through Benny Bennasi’s social media channels. Additional prizes will be awarded to the highest voted video as well.

You have until July 8, 2013 to submit your video, so what are you waiting for? Round up some friends and get busy creating!

This project reached 4,447,497 people. Active participants averaged:

• +29 New Supporters
• +87 Shares & Comments
• +17,339 Social Reach

Oracle recently invited artists and photographers to submit original artwork that visualizes how cloud based computing will transform business and the way people work. The submissions were thought-provoking and creative, and we would like to thank those who participated. We are now pleased to announce the winners!

Oracle and Computer Weekly’s Choice

Congratulations to Eduardo Chaves! Computers Weekly‘s Editor Bryan Glick will feature Eduardo’s submission on the front cover of Cloud e-zine!

Eduardo’s Submission- “The Cloud”

Eduardo also won: 

• $3,000
• Promotion across Oracle and Computer Weekly digital channels

Finalists

Congratulations to our two finalists, Romain Monbertrand, and Sofia Uribe Correa! Romain and Sofia both $500 and promotion across Oracle and Computer Weekly digital channels.

Romain’s submission’ “un transfert a la vitesse de la lumière

Sofia’s Submission – “Oracle ‘Te Eleva a la nube’”

People’s Choice Award

Congratulations to our contestant with the highest vote, Ksimiro Soto!

Ksimiro’s Submission – “HAZLO FACIL // MAKE IT EASY”

As Ksimiro won the People’s Choicehonor, he will receive $1,000.

Thank you for submitting such captivating images! Keep an eye out for our next Creative Invite!

If we had to choose just one thing that OK Go knows how to do well, it would without a doubt be crafting the perfect music video. Here we have a selection of our very favorite rad videos for your perusal and to inspire your entry in our Creative Invite with Saatchi & Saatchi and OK Go.

1. “Last Leaf”

“Last Leaf” is a stop motion video made entirely from toast art. Yes, toast. Featuring 2,430 images, and made from a whopping 215 loaves of bread, it is like a more elaborate and way more awesome version of the flip books we all used to make as kids.

2. “White Knuckles”

The video for the song “White Knuckles” was filmed in only one shot and based on the theme of “absurd and awesome.” Featuring twelve dogs, all from animal shelters, and one goat the music video took over 120 takes to film and blows our minds from the amount of dedication they took to stay true to their concept. 

3. “This Too Shall Pass”

“This Too Shall Pass” features a giant Rube Goldberg machine– a machine made to perform a simple task using a deliberately overly complex chain reaction– synchronized in time to the music and filmed in only one mind blowing shot.

4. “Do What You Want, The Wallpaper Version”

The mesmerizing video for  ”Do What You Want, The Wallpaper Version” stars the band with a large entourage all dressed in wallpaper print bodysuits matching the walls and floors.

5. “Here It Goes Again”

And last but not least… “Here It Goes Again.” The classic OK Go music video that started it all and even won the band a Grammy award in 2007. 

Don’t forget to submit your own unique music video to The Saatchi & Saatchi Music Video Challenge by May 7, 2013!

This project reached 4,073,019 people. Active participants averaged:

• +18 New Supporters
• +54 Shares & Comments
• +10,674 Social Reach

Major props to our community of photographers for once again impressing Creative Invite host Robert Caplin! The famed photographer, who formed The Photo Brigade, joined forces with former Chief White House photographer Eric Draper to host this Creative Invite and we’re pleased to announce that Laurynas Komza of Lithuania has been selected as the winner for his photograph “Silent Reality.”

They’re all so close in physical world, but they’re thinking different universes.
I took this picture during our trip to Berlin. I woke up first and saw everybody sleeping. The car was in the parking lot. It wasn’t comfortable but when one is young one doesn’t need the comfort.

Arman Petrosyan of Armenia has been named the runner-up for his photograph “Lights.”

church

Steven John of the United States is the photographer who impressed the judges so much that they selected his photograph “Matanza” to receive this Tenba Messenger camera bag. We’re impressed by the photograph AND the special prize!

This photograph is from an ongoing personal project on traditional Matanzas in New Mexico.

The honor of being the highest-voted photographer goes to Andrea Sarabia of Chile for her photograph “En la boca del León (In the lion’s mouth).”

Curious what you can find in the mouth of a lion!
Carnival anniversary, Lautaro city, Chile.

Thank you once again for submitting your wonderful photography! We’re hoping to see another round of your work in a future Creative Invite.

Innovate Don’t Emulate

You should be able to point at something, even a small element, of your work and say confidently “I have never seen this before.” If the conversation starts with “You know the [insert famous video here] it’s gonna be like that but…” then you probably should go back to the drawing board. Nobody is excited by a derivative idea no matter how well it’s done.

Idea Over Style

Your beautiful, shallow depth of field, 50 frames per seconds, DSLR shots aren’t going to be able to hide a lack of good idea. For all the skill and talent, end of the day a great idea shot on an iphone will be more popular than a boring beautiful video. That’s not to say production values don’t matter (they do), but they can’t be the only thing in your video. Now if you can mix a great idea with stunning photography, well then you’ll take over the world.

Ending

This is a huge problem in music videos! Just because you’re not doing drama doesn’t mean you shouldn’t be thinking of structure and narrative (no matter how abstract it is). At the end of the day you’re asking people to watch something for 3 to 4 minutes, so a girl walking slowly through a field for the entire time isn’t going to hold an audience. Think about a journey, a development, a conclusion that surprises or subverts. Even if it isn’t a narrative piece by the nature of it being cinema there are still always characters who have motivations, or a narrative/journey that can keep evolving and unfolding.

Use What You Have

The world around you, no matter where you live, is fascinating to other people who don’t see it every day. That old burnt out car you always walk past? The barber’s shop that still has 70s wallpaper? Your dog that can walk on it’s hind legs? The weird guy down the road with a sword collection? The street everyone throws their rubbish down? The house with all the smashed windows? If you don’t have a budget this is your amazing set and props that a Hollywood art director couldn’t recreate as well for all the money in the world.

Don’t Listen To These Tips

You’re you and have your own unique talent so don’t be too intimidated by other people’s opinions or “rules”. This isn’t to say you can’t, and will, learn from other people. Absorb all the knowledge you can, and listen to advice and be prepared to take it if it feels like it’ll make your work better. But at the end of the day if you reallyfeel something is great, and everyone else thinks it’s rubbish or impossible, then it is great just by virtue of you believing in it. When you’re starting out it’s hard to not be intimidated by more experienced people, but talent is talent, and good ideas are good ideas, regardless of what stage in your career you are.

To participate in our OK Go Music Video Challenge, make sure to submit your work by May 7, 2013.

I contacted her for another interview to gain some more insight into a repeat winner and her experiences. She not only answered the questions I sent but she also had even more good news to share. After photographing Emeli Sandé’s opening act, Emily King, Sam showed Emily and her manager the photos she took during that show. Samantha was hired on the spot as her photographer! She’s already captured several of Emily’s shows, including a studio session, and Sam will be traveling on her upcoming tour as well.

Congratulations are definitely in order for her CI win and this amazing new opportunity!

How is concert photography different from fashion in your experience? I imagine it’s similar to a sporting event, trying to catch an amazing slice of action no one else can.
Sam: Oh it’s two different sides of the spectrum. In fashion photography you have more say in what your subject is doing. You can pose them, chose your location, come up with your own concept and more. You’re trying to sell a product at the same time as well. It’s a different challenge than satisfying the artist/sports team you are working for. In sports/concert photography you don’t have a say in what you want your subject to do or how they should look. It’s incredibly spontaneous and you must be constantly watching. With that said, I love all these types of photography because they keep me on my toes and push me creatively. I also found out that in concert photography they only want you shooting the first three songs. I believe that rule only applies if you’re right in front of the stage though. I like to make my way from the front all the way to the back so I can thoroughly cover the event. All the cool stuff happens towards the end of the show!

What was the biggest difference between the Emeli Sandé and Sunnery James & Ryan Marciano’s shows? Biggest thing you prepared for? What didn’t you prepare for, but wish you had?
Sam: Besides the genre of music, it was definitely the location of all three shows that were so different. Emeli’s show in Boston had low lighting in a dark setting while her Webster Hall show was professionally lit and was a breeze to shoot.

Sunnery James and Ryan Marciano’s show was in a club setting where the lighting was just all over the place. It was incredibly difficult to get clean shots of them, but I love a challenge and it helped me push myself to fight for the shots I wanted.

I think I prepared for all three shows equally. I always research the venue and check out past photographs that others have taken to get a feel for different areas I could be during the night.

Are you a ninja or are you like a warrior wielding your lens at these shows? How do folks respond to you being there?
Sam: These shows I was definitely more of a ninja. This is an awesome question by the way, hahaha! I was a ninja since I had to move around quickly and try to not be in anyone’s way. The audience treated me differently in each venue. When I was photographing Emeli in Boston, no one was bothered by me because I was really only in two spots for the show, but at her NYC show I moved from the front to the back. You just try to compose your shots quickly and keep moving so that others can enjoy their night without interruption.

As for the LAVO show with Sunnery and Ryan, everyone was asking for pictures since it was a club venue. So not only are you shooting the performers in a not so ideal lighting condition, but then you have to change your settings quickly to capture fans who are having a good time. Luckily you can program settings into cameras!

Do you have a subject or place you would love to photograph in your lifetime? A particular artist/performer maybe? Or exotic locale?
Sam: The list is endless of things I’d love to photograph. To list a few musicians, I’d love to work with John Mayer, Sara Bareilles, Dave Matthews Band, and Imagine Dragons.

I adore Coco Rocha for being flawless while making crazy faces and modeling the most fabulous fashion. In my opinion she’s a breath of fresh air in the modeling world just as Jennifer Lawrence is in the acting world. I admire them both for doing their jobs so well and being true to who they are.

As for locations, I’d love to go on a few safaris in Africa, explore New Zealand and Australia, Greece, Italy, and the Galapagos… but we’ll be here a while if I list off all the places I want to see!

If you had to pick one famous photographer you want to emulate, who would it be?
Sam: I don’t really want to emulate those who I look up to. I want to pick their brains and learn their techniques, and develop my own style that’s recognizable and inspires others.
I love Annie Leibovitz, Mario Testino, Pamela Hanson, Sue Bryce and so many more. It’s impossible to pick just one photographer in an age where there is a plethora of talent!

What’s your most indispensable piece of equipment?
Sam: The most clichéd but true thing I can think of is all the knowledge that I’ve gained thus far. You can always buy new equipment, but everything I know now has taken plenty of time and lots of practice. I know I still have so much to learn, but I’m excited about it. I get to wake up everyday to a job that makes me incredibly happy and I’ve had the honor of meeting some insanely talented people along this awesome journey. With all the future projects I have lined up, I can’t help but be so excited to work!

Be sure to check out our previous feature on Samantha.

 Congratulations on this win and your growing opportunities, Sam!

75 years ago, and Superman is still a part of the world’s imagination today. Though he has gone through many changes in that time, the larger than life hero and what he stands for is still popular.

In June, the film Man of Steel hits theaters with Henry Cavill in the role, adding another chapter to this larger than life mythos.

Even though I haven’t seen the new film, based on the things I’ve seen in the trailer and what I know of Superman’s storied 75 year long past, I can tell you what things we probably won’t see in the film and why. This is a brief look at some of those things.

Superboy

Clark Kent discovered his powers while in high school, but was cautioned to use them, not for his own benefit, but the greater good. The scene of teenaged Clark punting the football to the sky and racing a train home in 1977’s Superman with Christopher Reeve is a good illustration of this. In the latest trailer, we see him rescuing a bus full of kids.

Obviously he has the ability to do amazing things even at a young age, but suiting up and saving the day? Not until he was older.

Different Colored Kryptonite with Odd Powers

We all know green Kryptonite can kill the Man of Steel. But there are other kinds of kryptonite. For example, red Kryptonite has varied effects on him, ranging from from supercharged powers to lost inhibitions to body swapping. Gold Kryptonite strips Superman of all his powers. White Kryptonite kills all plants. Pink Kryptonite turns Superman gay (I wish I was making that up).

Now, there are some rumors that a black form of Kryptonite shown in the movie has been spotted online, but of course, until it comes out it remains to be seen what it really is and what effects, if any, this Kryptonite has. More than likely it won’t be any of the bizarre outcomes mentioned above.

Beppo and Krypto

A white puppy and pet of the toddler Kal-El, Krypto was launched in a rocket by Superman’s father Jor-El as a test subject for the rocket that eventually carried his son to Earth. This test rocket was knocked off course during the test and landed years later on Earth, while Clark Kent was acting as Superboy. In later stories, different dogs made their appearances with the name Krypto, from fierce Kryptonian superdogs to white mutts.

Beppo, a monkey, was another Kryptonian test-animal, but he stowed away on the rocket that saved the young Superman. After living in a jungle for a time, the monkey surfaced in a very young Clark Kent’s life to cause all kinds of shenanigans in Smallville as only monkeys can (minus super-poo throwing).

Both Krypto and Beppo served as members of the Legion of Super-Pets in the 31st Century. Yes, a super-pet organization in the future.

Krypto has enjoyed some popularity in recent times, with even a kids show in the last few years and comic book appearances. Beppo, on the other hand, was written out of Superman’s stories a couple decades ago, but has been featured recently in children’s books with different super-pets.

Given these animals first appeared when Clark Kent was acting as Superboy, they probably won’t be in the film, if ever. Animal heroes can skew toward cutesy and the movie in that trailer above doesn’t strike me as cutesy, at all.

Super-spanking

Why would this even need to be there? Definitely a bizarre artifact of the old dailies that ran in the late 1930′s.

Whatever portrayal they give Superman, there’s no denying he is a cultural icon, standing for the good things we all want to see in ourselves and the world. Truth. Justice. Standing up for the Little Guy. A Hero. Even with the bizarre and sometimes inexplicable things the comic has produced, separating the ideals of the myth from the complicated history of the character is not difficult, and it’s probably why the character and the stories endure for so long.

Happy 75th Birthday, Big Blue.

Superman and all related characters are copyright DC Comics and the depictions here are intended as fair use.

EDM powerhouse David Guetta is best known for his hit collaborations with the biggest names in the business, including Lil Wayne, Rihanna, Nicki Minaj and will.i.am, and his killer stage presence during live sets, (hello Ultra Music Festival!) David Guetta is releasing the final single, Play Hard featuring Ne-Yo and Akon, from his multi-platinum album Nothing but the Beat 2.0 and to celebrate is inviting artists from around the world to design a pair of Mexican pointy boots inspired by the track.

Artists should derive their inspiration from lyrics of the song ‘Play Hard’ and use the template provided to create their original design.

David Guetta’s Choice:

The winner chosen by the judging panel which included David Guetta will receive:

• $1,000
• Social media exposure across David Guetta’s official online channels, potentially reaching 50 million fans
• A signed pair of special edition DG Beats Neon Mixr Headphones

Four runners up will receive David Guetta vinyls, and EMI music goodie bag, and Record Store day exclusive 12″!

People’s Choice

The submission that receives the greatest number of votes will be awarded promotion on David Guetta’s social channels, an EMI goodie bag, a limited edition Record Store Day Picture Disc vinyl and copy of Nothing But the Beat as well as a pair of special edition DG Beats Neon Mixr Headphones.

Submit your design by May 27, 2013.

One of them is a brief video of How To Destroy Angels talking about creating their stage show. Even though it is Trent Reznor’s band, and there are similarities, it’s a different beast than his other outfit, Nine Inch Nails.

The video is a quick look at the thinking of a band that wants to provide an experience, not just a performance. Be advised– there is some swearing so it may be NSFW.

Trent Reznor on their sound:

Rob Sheridan, art director, on the light show:

Mariqueen Reznor, lead singer, on the feel of performing with their setup:

Atticus Finch on Coachella and their live show:

Trent Reznor on Coachella:

This video (and the others on YouTube) showcase what they’re talking about.

To enter, read the guidelines and submit your art inspired by her music.

Karen Ruimy’s Choice:

One winner will have their art featured as the cover of  the digital release of Come With Me as well as win $2,500. Their artwork will be printed and signed by Karen, and they will receive additional prizes including merchandise.

One runner up will receive $800, a signed copy of her book The Voice of the Angel and other Karen Ruimy merchandise as well as a feature across her online channels.

People’s Choice:

The artwork with the highest vote count will receive $500, Karen Ruimy merchandise, a signed copy of her book and more.

Enter your designs by June 6th, 2013. We’re looking forward to seeing them!

The world famous Coachella Valley Music and Arts Festival wrapped last just weekend and we’re still suffering from major music festival withdrawals. Featuring an eclectic mix of artists ranging from veteran rockers The Stone Roses and The Red Hot Chili Peppers, to EDM acts such as Major Lazer, and to hip hop artists like Wu Tang Clan and 2 Chainz, its no wonder the three day, two weekend festival drew record high numbers of music lovers and major celebrities from around the country to the city of Indio, California for the annual event. With such a variety in music comes an assortment of fashions, and Coachella attendees make an concentrated effort to pull out all the stops; exhibiting their best and outfits turning their excursion in the desert into a style display. Here is a gallery of our favorite looks from Coachella 2013.

Poppy Delevingne wearing shorts by Rag & Bone and rocking a feather headress via Instagram.

A festival-goer totes a sweet pineapple shaped bag via Blog and the Cities.

Victoria’s Secret model Amessandra Ambrosio and friends spotted during weekend one.

Coachella sweetheart Vanessa Hudgens carried a giant sunflower around the festival with her boyfriend Austin Butler.

Model Leigh Lezark keeping it simple and sweet in a white bustier and floral shorts via Harper’s Bazaar.

Fashion blogger Chiara Ferragni looking cute at the Neon Carnival in flower aplique shorts on day two. Via The Blonde Salad.

Now we’ve extended the deadline and sweetened the deal with the following announcement…

Olympus Has Fallen and Talenthouse are pleased to inform the Talenthouse community that the voting period has been extended to Friday May 3. As a surprise incentive, the highest voted winner will now receive an iPad mini with Wi-Fi 16GB, in addition to having their submission featured on Gerard Butler’s Twitter page and receiving $500.

P.S. check out our early submission winner!

The submissions are looking great and we can’t wait to award our winners! Help us do so by casting your vote via Twitter or Facebook through May 3, 2013.

A forerunner in the UK Dubstep scene, Benga began producing tracks in the early 2000s as the genre began to emerge out of a marriage of popular underground styles such as garage, 2-step and dub. Fast becoming a stodgy mess of ‘EDM’ and ‘Brostep’, artists such as Skream and Benga have begun to disassociate themselves with the genre, moving instead toward a territory of warmer, cleaner and yet unwaveringly club orientated sounds. Having always been at the forefront of a particularly progressive and exponential genre, Benga looks to take things in a new direction on this second solo release and wants your help in getting there. If Benga and Kano like what they hear, your tune could win you $1500 and be released as an official remix.

A track which, in its original form, pays close attention to Kano’s grime vocal. Benga invites you to put your own creative spin on the release. Ensure warm basslines and some dub-typical swinging beats and you’ll be on to a winner, as always with Talenthouse its about being as creative and original as possible!

Have a jam to the original, take it in and then take it apart.

We look forward to hearing your submissions by May 30, 2013!

This ultra-spiffy partnership with Dr. Pepper will send one Talenthouse DJ to Miami, Florida in July 2013, where they’ll take the stage for 30 glorious minutes to open for Pitbull.

With its unique mix of 23 flavors, Dr Pepper is celebrating the unparalleled individuals who embody how Dr Pepper is always one of a kind.

Here’s what you need to know about this Creative Invite.

Not only will the winner open for Pitbull in Miami with full accommodation, three highest voted artists will receive travel and two nights’ accommodation in Miami, two tickets to the Dr. Pepper private show and two VIP passes to the Premios Juventud award show on July 18, 2013.

In essence, four of our fabulous DJs will be partying at the Pitbull concert and we’ll be jealous (but ultra-happy for!) every single one of them.

The submission date is June 8, 2013 – we look forward to hearing what you’ve done with Pitbull’s song!

This project reached 2,159,286 people. Active participants averaged:

• +30 New Supporters
• +89 Shares & Comments
• +27,898 Social Reach

The winners have been announced for our Creative Invite with HTC. You submitted, you voted, and 9 lucky winners came out on top. Take a look at these #winning submissions.

HTC’s Choice Awards

• £1,000 cash each
• An HTC One Smartphone.
• The images will appear on billboards across the UK in cities including: London, Newcastle, Leeds, Birmingham, Glasgow, Liverpool, Manchester and Dublin!
• One overall winner will receive a £5,000 financial bursary to donate to a local charity of their choice.

George Baggaley

“Inspiring The Senses ” By George Baggaley

Carl Jeffers

“The Life of the Party” By Carl Jeffers

Daniel Weatheritt

“HTC Billboard” By Daniel Weatheritt

Vincenzo Annunziata

“Boom Boom Boom ” By Vincenzo Annunziata

Michael Lester

“HTC Zoe: A Gallery That’s Alive.” By Michael Lester

Ryan Dungey

“flashing lights” By Ryan Dungey

Robert Rajszczak

“Irish Explosion” By Robert Rajszczak

Alex Sass

“Birmingham’s BoomSound!” By Alex Sass

People’s Choice Awards

Hugo Carneiro

“HTC Blink Feed – The Shard” By Hugo Carneiro

The highest voted artist will receive an HTC One Smartphone.

We received so many wonderful submissions. Keep up the great work and congratulations to all of our winners!

His talent has brought him to work with other established artists like Kanye West, Rihanna, Pharell, Justin Timberlake, and more. He will be launching his new album, Momentum, on May 20, 2013. To promote his album, he will be going on tour in the fall, and needs a creative designer to make his next poster design. Artists and designers, this is your chance to submit an original design for his official Autumn European tour poster.

Jamie Cullum’s Choice

One winner, chosen by Jamie Cullum, will see their design used as Jamie’s official Autumn Tour poster. They will also receive:

• $1,000
• A Yamaha keyboard
• A pair of VIP tickets to an upcoming Jamie Cullum gig of their choice*

Runner ups

Two runners up will receive:

• $150 each
• A signed album

People’s Choice

One highest voted artist will receive:

Get creative with Talenthouse and Jamie Cullum and submit your poster design now!

Alberto y Red Family

TH: At what age did you know you want to devote to this? 
Alberto: Ever since I was little, I’ve always dreamt of playing in an orchestra behind the music of the movies. It took me a while to decide, but I started to play guitar when I was 15 years old, and I haven’t stopped since then.

TH: Have you contributed in something more that in your own success? If you haven’t, what will you like to do for help?
Alberto:  Actually, the greatest thing I’ve done so far is to inaugurate my studio, Red Family. The goal is to help the musicians in my neighborhood.  I’m from Spain, and they don’t value the music I do. So I enjoy supporting those who experiment on blues, rock, and funk.

Alberto also has an alternative project, PerroRaro. He describes Red Family as being the most personal, where he has the freedom to collaborate and make music that he likes. Meanwhile, PerroRaro is a more challenging project that requires him reinvent himself and adapt the way he approaches to someone else’s concepts while collaborating in music.

TH: What’s the biggest complement you’ve got for your work? 
Alberto:  The fact that Eric Clapton and his team have chosen me as the winner of this CI. Since we are not taken seriously in my country, this is definitely a great international recognition.

Enjoy Alberto’s version of  ”Cocaine”:

TH: How do you deal with the critics and keep motivated?
Alberto:  I believe if we want to keep growing, we should accept criticisms, and just to learn how to deal with it.

TH: Which do you think is the most common misperception to musicians / composers?
Alberto:  The majority of people think we’re lazy and that we don’t do anything but  play instruments all day. I believe music is like any other profession. I don’t think that the one that finishes a degree and thinks that knowing everything will get them any further. I’m still studying, and as I know more I realize how much I have left to learn.

TH: What’s your favorite part of your work?
Alberto:  Facing the productions. Since the beginning, it has always been exciting to make those bands sound like themselves. On the other hand, I think it is incredible to make movie soundtracks, and being able to fit that specific picture with the music. I would love to collaborate on the soundtrack of  a science fiction film. It would be a dream come true for me.

TH: What’s your top 5 of songs? 
Alberto: “Cause We Have Ended as Lovers” by  Jeff Beck, “Gravity” by John Mayer, “Higher Ground” by Stevie Wonder, “Pride & Joy” by  S.R.V.  and Cream‘s cover of ”Crossroads.”

TH: What inspires your music? 
Alberto:  Everyday life. Some experiences stay; others go, but the real ones leave their mark.

TH: What’s the best advice you’ve ever got?
Alberto: The best advice I’ve ever got was to be myself.

TH: What do you want your audience to keep after hearing your music?
Alberto: Some sore throats, loose shoelaces! Overall that feeling of having a good time!

Congratulations to Alberto Tresguerres and Red Family! We hope to stay in touch you this year around!

Check out Red Family on the web: Soundcloud | Twitter | Facebook | YouTube

]]> http://blog.talenthouse.com/2013/04/23/the-symphonic-success-of-alberto-tresguerres-and-red-family/feed/ 0 http://blog.talenthouse.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/04/redF-307x204.jpg http://blog.talenthouse.com/2013/04/23/featured-artist-harish-chandra/ http://blog.talenthouse.com/2013/04/23/featured-artist-harish-chandra/#comments Tue, 23 Apr 2013 15:00:24 +0000 Jesse http://blog.talenthouse.com/?p=92152 I love all music, but when I want something that fuels my brain and gets me thinking, I love music that’s harmonic, ponderous, and cosmic. I found someone that fits that bill just right when I stumbled across Harish Chandra‘s cover of Eric Clapton‘s “Cocaine”.

Sitting on his couch with bare feet, he doesn’t rush through any notes and builds his cover like a slow burn. It made me stop and listen and so I sent off an email and we were able to chat some over email about his musical background and his philosophy on the nature of music.

TH: Where did you get your start? How long have you been playing guitar?
Harish: I was born into a family of Hindustani (Indian Classical) musicians, and had some sort of music playing around me always (both Eastern and Western). My dad gifted me a tabla set when I was five, and also taught me to play it. I gave my first stage performance, Tabla and keyboard , also when I was five.

From then on, I used to experiment with different kinds of stuff musically. For example, I was required to play the Keyboard at school on some occasion, and I did not have one at my disposal, nor did I know how to play it very well (although I had the basic knowledge that it involved something to do with ‘Chords’). So at home, I filled up a set of empty glasses with water upto different levels , approximately achieving a perfect ‘Major’ scale, and played two of them together selecting random ones, to see which of the two fit together and sound harmonious (chord-like) , and ended up playing the same thing the next day in school (which used to have a good keyboard back then).

The Guitar was relatively much later, when I was around 18 years old, and its been 6 years of guitaring so far.

TH: Who are your major influences?
Harish: Eric Clapton, George Harrison, and David Gilmour, Yanni and almost every other musician who plays good music.

TH: Are you currently in a band?
Harish: Yes!, I used to play in some bands before, but right now I play in a band called ‘LuminuM‘. We play stuff that can’t be categorised in a particular genre of music, but i’d like to call it ‘Transcendental’ coz for me, the music we end up making just takes the listener away to another place. Regardless of what type of music we make, I always, ALWAYS end up playing extempore guitar solos that involve and incorporate some amount of blues in it.

TH: Are you playing out regularly?
Harish: It fluctuates, we used to play out often, but, as of now,no… although we DO want to play regularly, lack of opportunity is a very big spoilsport.

TH: Who are your major inspirations? Musically or in life?
Harish: My Dad, and (late) Mom are my biggest inspirations, both in music and life. When it comes to just music, I guess it comes down to everyone who has played great music.

TH: What kinds of music do you enjoy the most?
Harish: For me, music is a language, a divine language that existed long before any of ours were even invented, and it can communicate with the soul, trigger emotions, . etc. So i do enjoy all kinds of music that do depict/portray some sort of an emotion, or trigger one (though I’m not a fan of very heavy/noisy stuff)

TH: What is your view/take on music?

Harish: Well, as I already said, music for me, is a language that transcends all boundaries, and I also do strongly believe we all are tailormade to connect to some form of music. It is the one thing that triggers emotions, and somewhat conveys an ‘Idea’ across people without them uttering a single word. Almost everyone learns the ‘rules of grammar’ after they’ve like spoken that language for a sufficiently long time, that, in my opinion applies to music also. As is the case with any language, the only way (in my humble opinion) to understand it and be able to express your thoughts and ideas through it is to ‘listen’ to the language (music in this case) long enough.

TH: What pushes you as an artist?
Harish: When I started out, I just wanted to play alongside Mr. Eric Clapton at least once, and become a part of the ‘Blues brotherhood’ (as I call it). That, along with a constant urge to make true and sincere music that has a coherent idea and conveys it with as much efficiency to connect my thought to the listener, this is what keeps me going.

TH: Where would you like to play a dream gig?
Harish: For me personally, my dream gig would be any gig where I get to play alongside all the blues greats (or any one of them at least) Like Clapton, B.B. King, Buddy Guy, etc. like at the Crossroads Guitar Festival. For the band, any gig that’s grand and helps us reach a wider international audience would be a dream gig.

TH: Any upcoming projects or things you’d like us to share with us?
Harish: Yeah, there are a lot of songs and a couple of music videos in the pipeline, and we would most probably be looking at a full fledged album soon. You can keep a track of us at ReverbNation or on our Facebook page and you can catch me at my own page on Facebook.

Harish on the Internet: Talenthouse | Facebook | LuminuM on Facebook | ReverbNation

In partnership with adidas eyewear, Nokia and glacéau vitaminwater®, we’ve announced the launch of a groundbreaking movement where artists (YES…that’s you!) can “make money from making art.”

Right now, Talenthouse members can make money directly from sharing not just selling their work. This pioneering form of collaboration is set to change the way artists fund their projects and we want you to join the movement!

There are two ways to make money.

Launch a collaboration: “Create with me”

Are you looking for someone to enhance an existing piece of work that you’ve created or someone to contribute to a project in progress? As the host of this Creative Invite, you will be the leader collaborating with other artists to realize your project’s completion.

Launch a commission: “Create for me”

Commission based projects are when you ask someone to create or make something specifically for you. You’re at a stage where you need the final piece to complete your project; you could be looking for an artist to design for your brand, a filmmaker to create a promotional or music video, or perhaps a vocalist/remixer for your latest track.

So, how does it all work?

Each host will earn $250 (paid once the invite has closed and the winner is selected) The winner (you decide who wins) also receives $250 from the brand sponsor and the highest voted artist is rewarded with $100. Watch our video and get started!

We wish you the best as you continue your artistic journey and hope you make the most of the new Talenthouse!

He sent along not just the answers to my questions but a bunch of examples of his work.

TH: How did you get your start in design?
Chris: After finishing high school I went to college to study forensic science. After taking chemistry, biology and computer science I was allowed to take one more course. I opted to take graphic design, thinking it would be a good way to balance out my studies and allow me to have a creative outlet. I soon realized that I was enjoying design a lot more than science, so I made the decision to change my career path and I haven’t looked back. I took a a two year national diploma in graphic design and then a three year bachelor degree at university.

TH: Any inspiration, art-wise? People or pieces? Places, even?
Chris: Inspiration is a tough one to pin down. I tend to be inspired by many different things and people, especially my peers and my surroundings. I try to document my life and the things I come across and re visit them as and when I need to. I have a collection of hundreds of photographs, drawings, links, books and so on. It’s loosely categorized and I dip into this when the dreaded ‘designers block’ decides to kicks in. I like to approach each project in the same way, I begin by researching and brainstorming and this often branches off in several different directions. I collect images, words, videos and even sounds and from here I will find the inspiration for that particular job. If I had to pin it down to particular artists, then right now it would be someone like Emeric Tarmand, aka Takeshi,or Carbine.

TH: I see on your submission for the Circumnavigate Invite you are currently in Canada by way of England. How did that happen? Anything you’ve had to adjust to?
Chris: I was actually born in the UK and grew up there. I got my first taste of Canada in 2006 after living in Whistler, BC for a year after university. I loved the country and the people, I knew then that I would be back in Canada at some point I just didn’t know when. After getting back to England I started working for a busy design and print agency where I spent almost three years. Along the way I met a Canadian girl from Saskatchewan and in 2011 we moved to Canada and we made the move to Toronto this year after spending two years in the prairies. Relocating from the UK to Saskatchewan was a huge adjustment the weather varies from minus 30 to plus 30 degrees and you can see for miles and miles, OI almost every day I experienced or learnt something new. In terms of design the opportunity for work isn’t as vast as the city but I was lucky enough to work with a small firm on wide range of projects and that has continued to keep me busy on a freelance basis, even after my move to Toronto.

TH: Your last two submissions here on Talenthouse have been for covers of albums. Is music a passion for you? How did you go about designing the work you submitted? They are both very different in their looks and complex, but they look like they fit the music they are representing. Is it easy or difficult for to span that divide from painterly to colourful abstract?
Chris: I don’t think there is an hour that goes by when I am not listening to some sort of music, I even fall to sleep with music on my iPod. I love all sorts of music and I love to design, music inspired, art. However, it seems that recording artists rarely have the spare cash to hire a designer or they prefer to produce their own artwork. So Talenthouse allows me to create the artwork I enjoy with the possibility of reward at the end. When it comes to designing the artwork I like to put on some of the tunes and do my research. The artwork can vary as much as the music itself does and this allows me to create work in different styles. I was fortunate enough to be selected as a winner for my last entry. It has the hand drawn painted feel to it, something I have been experimenting with more and more, and I have been working closely with the band on different stuff, it’s been exciting and has allowed me to develop this style a little further. It’s something I will definitely being going back to. I also run a small clothing company with my business partner, Peasoup Clothing, and this is where I have the best chance to experimental with my work.

 Check out Chris Jones on the Web: Website | Twitter | Talenthouse

Designers should submit an eye-catching and influential design that embodies the band and its transformation over time – and be sure to use the hashtag #SummerTourDesign should you feel the urge to tweet and shout about this project!

Are you ready? One month to start #dmb Summer Tour 2013! To view the tour dates and support acts: http://t.co/T7YlAbmZvt

April 17, 2013 4:41 pm

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Take a look at some of the previous designs to get inspired (and then get crackin’ on your submission)!

 Dave Matthew Band’s Choice

The winner chosen by the band will have their merchandise distributed throughout the summer 2013 and will be available in the online merchandise store. They will also win:

• $1000
• Two VIP tickets to a 2013 concert Dave Matthews Band of the winner’s choice
• Exposure for their submission which will be featured on Dave Matthews Band’s social media channels

People’s Choice

The highest voted artist will have their design produced and promoted as an online limited edition t-shirt on Dave Matthews Band’s online store. Additionally the winner will receive:

Submit yours by May 28, 2013!

The crowds were loving big DJ sounds from rising UK talent Will Power, Monki and Mele, adding extra energy to the night with live mixes back to back. We can confirm the atmosphere was definitely vibing, an exciting evening of bringing different styles, trends and cultures together in one night across two cities – a true celebration of ‘Crash, Collide, Unite All Originals.’

Don’t forget, you have until April 30, 2013 to submit your own artwork to our Creative Invite with adidas originals!

Here are his thoughts on our OK Go Music Video Challenge – we hope your work is among the submissions!

“The Cannes International Festival of Creativity brings the top talents in advertising together to get awards and get inspired, usually in that order. The OK Go Saatchi & Saatchi Music Video Challenge is not only an opportunity for young filmmakers to have their talents exposed on a global platform, but also a chance to have their work shown at most popular session to get inspired at the Festival: our New Directors’ Showcase. The real opportunity speaks for itself: producing a music video for ‘the first post-internet’ band OK Go. And how cool is that?

I’m really excited to be working with Damian Kulash, who I met when I chaired YouTube’s Branded Content panel – I love what Damian and the band have done to really challenge the way that we produce ideas – there isn’t a mood film that an agency makes that doesn’t have a little bit of OK Go in it somewhere (and if someone denies it they’re lying). As a fan of the music, I’m especially stoked that OK Go have given a track from their forthcoming album – ‘I’m Not Through’ – for filmmakers to interpret in their own way for this competition.

The Saatchi & Saatchi Worldwide Creative Board usually selects the clips that are featured in the Music Video Challenge, and I am really happy that Damian will be involved in the selection process. Best bit though is that the director of the winning video gets to spend a week in the South of France at the Festival, where their music video will be screened in the Grand Palais at the Saatchi & Saatchi New Directors’ Showcase.

This will be the 60th year of Cannes Lions, and the 23rd year of the Saatchi & Saatchi New Directors’ Showcase, so it’s an awesome opportunity for an emerging director to show the global advertising and creative community what they’re made of – and really kick off a career like so many other directors that have been associated with the Showcase.”

Photo credit

This project reached 2,130,521 people. Active participants averaged:

• +12 New Supporters
• +35 Shares & Comments
• +7,563 Social Reach

We’re pleased to announced that ABSOLUT has found 5 winners in Megan Cheney, Steve Yi, Antonio Lockhart, Eric Covault and Chris Murphey.

The Creative Challenge invited design submissions to enter to be the official poster for the upcoming ABSOLUT X event series – A Masquerade Ball bringing creatives from three disciplines to create an artistic experience inspired by art, cocktails, and music, in Miami, Austin, Seattle, New York, and Philadelphia.

ABSOLUT Art Bureau Principal Advisor Andras Szanto and the ABSOLUT team judged the entries, of which each winner will receive two VIP passes to the ABSOLUT event in the city of their choice and $1000.

Due to circumstances beyond their control, ABSOLUT has changed one of the five cities hosting the ABSOLUT X events. The new cities in which the events will be held are now as follows: Austin, Miami, New York, Philadelphia and Seattle.

ABSOLUT would like to thank all those participants who submitted their Vegas themed designs and has selected Laura Larrinaga‘s submission as the Judge’s Choice that will be featured on ABSOLUT’s social media channels.

I selected the city of Las Vegas for inspiration. Las Vegas is a city where you literally see it all. With that idea behind it, I wanted to incorporate glimpse of Las Vegas in a bottle, from the cirque du Soliel shows, gambling, beautiful interior design and of course to the wonderful nightlife of the city that takes you to sunrise. I chose bold colors for its the simple fact that its always lit whether its night or day. The gradient dark purple reminds me of memorable sleepless nights where we lost track of time because the DJ was spinning tracks like there was no tomorrow. For those memories I definitely wanted to pay my respects to the musicians that kept the party going day and night. I must add, that Vegas has some of the best mixologist I have seen and best tasting drinks. This concludes that life is an ABSOLUT party meant to be enjoyed to the e(X)treme!

Laura is an artist inspired by the visually appealing as well as the stories and experiences that people share with her. As she states so well on her profile, “Like music you just gotta feel it!”

Each winning design will be featured as the official poster for the ABSOLUT X event in their respective city. They will also be featured on ABSOLUT’s social media channels and on the marketing materials for each event.

Megan Cheney of Miami

The poster highlights the vibrant and thrilling nightlife of Miami beach. It was inspired by loud music and bright lights, two things that come to mind when celebrating with Absolut.

Megan is a graphic designer and illustrator who cites Peter Max and Patricia Kidney as her main influences.

Steve Yi of Seattle

The iconic Absolut X taking over city of Miami. The cities are transforming into liquid Absolut X as it’s rising above Miami. Art. Cocktails. Music.

Steve Yi is a graduate of the Art Center College of Design, where he earned a degree in Fine Arts and Ilustration. He currently works in advertising, where his clients have included Sony Entertainment, Dreamworks, Disney, Paramount Pictures, Universal, Warner Brothers, FX and MTV.

Antonio Lockhart of New York

NY 5:00 timezone campaign each featuring a NY icon and different cityscape of NY at different times of the day

Tony enjoys producing advertisements in the form of posters, logos and banners (perfect for this Creative Invite!). He bases his style on the work of Josef Muller Brockman, particularly with the use of photography and a sans-serif font.

Eric Covault of Austin

I wanted to make this in keeping with the tradition of the Absolut ads by being simple and bold, and by using the iconic Absolut bottle. Since Austin is the capital of Texas, using the state flag just made sense. People will immediately draw the connection. I also made the image to look like it had been painted on a canvas and gave it a hand made feel with the texture of the canvas and the typeface I used for “ART X COCKTAILS X MUSIC.” The yellow color was chosen as it complimented the colors of the flag and it also has an earthy, southern feel to it.

Chris Murphey of Philadelphia

Toast to an iconic symbol of American Independence

A major thank-you to every artist who took the time to submit their wonderful artwork to this Creative Invite. It’s always a pleasure to see, and we hope you’ll stay tuned for more design opportunities with us.

Snow Patrol is now giving the Talenthouse community a chance to create a music video for their song, The Lightning Strike (What if This Storm Ends?).

Known for their worldwide hit single “Chasing Cars,” Snow Patrol is a Northern Irish band that was first formed at the University of Dundee. They began their career by playing gigs at universities and pubs. They recently released their Greatest Hits album, and they are now inviting you to be a part of it.

Grand Prize Winner

One winner, chosen by Snow Patrol, will have their video featured on Snow Patrol’s social media channels. They will also win an Olympus camera package worth $1,599.98.

The package will include:

• Olympus OM-D-E-M5 camera kit, with 12-50mm lens
• Olympus LS-100, valued at $399.99

People’s Choice Award

Now it is your chance to help Snow Patrol and show them what you’ve got!

What will you do, and how will your music video differentiate itself with the rest that will be submitted?

This project reached 39,299,621 people. Active participants averaged:

• +9 New Supporters
• +28 Shares & Comments
• +8,981 Social Reach

Post by Leily Moazami.

Legendary Abbey Road Studios and Avid have chosen their three very lucky winners. These winners have won not only prizes, but the respect of the music industry. Creative Invite winners are  Emerger Band, Millia Oz, and Scratch on a Blackboard, they have gotten the whole music deal!

Our three winners have won:

• Their song/track mixed and mastered by Abbey Road’s online services (worth $1,300)
• A Pro Tools|HD Native system with Pro Tools HD 10 software and an HD OMNI interface (worth $5,999) each
• Exposure across Avid’s website and social online channel

PS: Everyone follow Emerger Band on their social media sites!

Congratulations to Brothers Nalbandyan for winning the People’s Choice!

Brothers Nalbandyan receive:

• An Mbox Pro audio interface with Pro Tools 10 software (worth $999)
• Exposure across Avid’s website and social online channels

Thank you everyone for participating!

The folks over at Slacktory got a couple videos edited together by YouTuber OneMinuteGalactica featuring the Star Wars saga as two different films entirely. He cleverly uses edits to the video to match the soundtracks of the original trailers, making Luke sound like a confused college student, and the forest moon of Endor look like a bad idea for an amusement park featuring genetically engineered monsters.

He’s also done a parody mashup of the old cops-on-bikes drama CHiPs with the troopers-on-speeder bikes from Return of the Jedi.

You can find some of his other parodies on his YouTube channel.

Linkin Park has been around since 1996 and garnered themselves a reputation as one of the most successful bands of the early 2000s with hits like “The End” and “Numb.” They’ve won many awards and was also named the sixth-greatest band of music video era and the third best of the new millennium in 2003.

At the UN Global Leadership Award

Now they are inviting you to submit artwork that is inspired from the music and lyrics of their latest hit, Castle of Glass. One winner, who will be chosen by the band, will not only have their design sold at Linkin Park’s merchandise store & tours, but they will also receive a signed and framed copy of their t-shirt design, promotion across all Linkin Park channels and properties, and $1,000.

The artist with the highest number of votes will also receive a signed and framed copy of their design, as well as promotion across all Linkin Park channels and properties, and $500.

Click here for more details.

Submit by May 20, 2013 and keep an eye out for the winner announcement on June 4, 2013!

On behalf of Linkin Park, we are looking forward to seeing some amazing designs!

Who knew you can mash a pop hit and vocal jazz standard into a melancholy and wistful ode to crossed signals? They figured it out and it works.

Jane Lui also sang in cdza’s first video, “History of Lyrics That Aren’t Lyrics”.

Quite impressive how she moves all over the changes and still manages to stay in key. Not to mention, memorizing all those words…

And like I mentioned before, she’s won awards in her own right and received YouTube’s recognition as a singer songwriter. She embraces the pop ballad sound but throws in very modern instrumentation and electronic noise. You can here it in her song “Jailcard”.

Very cool sound she has created.

Time is ticking away and the cloud looms! If you’re yet to submit your cover design of Business 20/20 then it’s time to get tech. Oracle is looking for thought provoking and imaginative takes on the ways in which cloud-based computing is set to change the world of business for ever.

For your chance to win $3,000 prize AND be seen by the biggest names in business get your head in the cloud – we want to see your take on a future of remote, versatile and limitless computing.

Check out some of the past Business 20/20 covers here for inspiration.

Submit by April 11, 2013.

www.facebook.com/OracleCloudComputing | #OracleDesign

With only seven short days left in our HTC One Creative Invite its time to start submitting your work before it is too late!

HTC wants you to interpret the innovative features on their phone into a billboard ad for all of England to see! Not only do you get your work viewed nationally, each of the eight winners wins £1,000 cash, and a brand new HTC One smartphone.

This is your chance to get your work seen by thousands!

Here are examples of  former billboard ads to get inspiration from.

• One
• Two
• Three

Come participate!

Submit your work by April 14th at 6pm GMT.

TH: Tell us a little about your artistic background. How many years have you been creating art?
Junior: I work as an Illustrator since 1990. I started as a cartoonist in Belém do Pará, Brazil. I’ve been living in São Paulo for 14 years, working in many magazines and  newspapers with illustration. Parallel to this, I’ve been developing a pioneer illustration technique which consists of patchwork portraits of major pop icons.

TH: What does your creative process look like?
Junior: My work is a creative chaos. First I choose a pictures or I draw on myself and then I print bigger copies. With that I make the canvas using the patches as an ink.

Cristo by Junior Lopes

TH: What are your favorite pieces you’ve done and why?
Junior: Oscar Wilde, Amy Winehouse, Seu Jorge and Frida Kahlo, there are many! There are more than 300 now.

TH: Describe your art in 3 words.
Junior: Innovative. Inspiring. Accessible.

TH: Where do you find inspiration?
Junior: My inspiration comes from reading, music, talking with friends, life…

Magazine Illustration piece by Junior Lopes

TH: What are the hardest things you deal with as an illustrator?
Junior: Living from Arts in Brazil is not an easy task. But I’d rather invest my time working than worrying about the difficulties.

TH: What advice would you give to other artists in our community?

Junior: 

TH: What is your dream project?
Junior: I have a deep desire to host an exhibition that would combine Brazilian and American Pop Icons like Tom Jobim x Frank Sinatra, Pelé X Michael Jordan, Liza Minelli x Eliz Regina, Cristo Redentor x Liberty Statue, Blues x Samba, Andy Warhol x Vik Muniz…

TH: What do you think it takes to make a good illustrator?
Junior: Forget about the computer a little bit and work, sweat, work and sweat.

Elvis by Junior Lopes

All We Need is Love by Junior Lopes.

Oscar Wilde by Junior Lopes

Amy Winehouse by Junior Lopes.

“Every bad situation is a blues song waiting to happen.” —Amy Winehouse

See Junior’s collection on the Web: Website | Talenthouse