deviantART: by:VonCrowd http://search.deviantart.com/?q=by:VonCrowd&section=today deviantART RSS for by:VonCrowd en-us Copyright 2009, deviantART.com Wed, 25 Nov 2009 23:52:05 PST deviantART.com http://blogs.law.harvard.edu/tech/rss http://s.deviantart.com/minish/widgets/apple-touch-icon-precomposed.png Gobble Gobble! http://VonCrowd.deviantart.com/journal/27709021/ http://VonCrowd.deviantart.com/journal/27709021/ Sun, 11 Oct 2009 14:45:56 PDT
This weekend the practice is recognizing the things you are thankful for in life...OH YEAH AND EATING AWESOME FOODS OMG YAY

like so many other holidays its more effective to carry a little of the tradition with you every day and everywhere you go
you'll be amazed how awesome life is when you take the time every day to think about how great even the small things are.

Hope you are all well and having a fabulous day!
:hungry:

]]> ~VonCrowd happy face http://VonCrowd.deviantart.com/journal/26081304/ http://VonCrowd.deviantart.com/journal/26081304/ Tue, 21 Jul 2009 07:11:05 PDT
Thanks once again you fabulous art community you :aww:

So how are you all doing anyway? :)

]]> ~VonCrowd Thumb Feature http://VonCrowd.deviantart.com/journal/23603712/ http://VonCrowd.deviantart.com/journal/23603712/ Mon, 09 Mar 2009 04:33:11 PDT and since there are over 250 deviations in my watchbox I have plenty to chose from!





hope you are having a wonderful day :aww:

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deviantArt is... HelpDesk I'm a Beertographer ABCs of dA Inc. I'm an ACE! ]]> ~VonCrowd Outing myself http://VonCrowd.deviantart.com/journal/23570469/ http://VonCrowd.deviantart.com/journal/23570469/ Sat, 07 Mar 2009 08:13:01 PST
I think we can all agree, regardless of orientation, that high school represents a particularly challenging chunk of our teenage years. I felt entirely adrift there. As my peers paired off and spent countless lunch hours talking about crushes and the hottest kids in school I was made more and more painfully aware that I didn't fit in. I couldn't relate, I didn't feel the same urges or have the same needs. At times it felt as though I was standing perfectly still while the world sped on, thundering by my ears along the way. I assured myself that I just needed to meet the right person and when I did I'd feel all those things I was supposed to. I was dateless until college and I've still never had sex. (I'm 27 by the way)

In my first year of college (nine years ago) I met a guy and we started dating. I was fond of him but while we were together I felt as though I was simply going through the motions of dating. I didn't hold his hand because I wanted to, I did because that was what other couples did. I felt like I was pretending to be something I was not and didn't want to drag anyone else into that lie. This was entirely to blame for our amicable split; the relationship lasted three months and remains my longest and only to date. I began questioning many things at this point including my sexual orientation but since I couldn't figure it out I decided to ignore my feelings (or lack there of) in favour of the 'wait and see' approach. (which caused more damage than good in my case)

Some time later I was introduced, through chance meeting, to a girl with whom I became nearly instant best friends. Eventually she asked me out and I felt that horrible lie creeping up on me once again. I was very confused and conflicted by my feelings. I cared a great deal for her but felt no sexual attraction whatsoever, I had no desire to move our relationship beyond the wonderful friendship that it had become. I could not articulate my feelings nor make sense of them and as a result I grew incredibly frustrated.

Returning to the college environment only worsened my frustrations and I felt a tremendous amount of pressure to identify, to chose a side while neither felt right. I wasn't straight nor gay and couldn't settle for being bisexual either. To vent my anxieties I withdrew into my studies. Since I'm rather studious to begin with I didn't realize what I was doing until one of my professors and several of my classmates confronted me (separately and privately of course) out of concern for my well being. I had been building walls and keeping everyone at a good safe distance while I struggled and searched...the years of effort put toward all these things were finally wearing me out.

Out of desperation I started searching for reasons, causes, prescription drug side effects, chemical imbalances...for anything that might explain why I'm the way I am but found nothing. While reading some research on brain chemistry I stumbled across the word 'asexual' and lived one of those perfect moments where in, before cross-referencing the term, I fondly recalled studying amoebas in grade school and felt oddly at ease. Within minutes I'd discovered a community of -thousands- who feel the same way I do.

My entire life has changed, I feel light as a feather and I can't stop smiling. It feels so good to fit in and to know I'm not alone :aww: Every stress and frustration and insecurity I've been carrying around has been lifted from my shoulders and I feel absolutely euphoric. I only wish I could have found this out sooner.

This orientation is not fully researched yet but studies are in progress. It is met with a lack of understanding and much controversy. I'm hoping to help change that. If you have ANY questions feel free to ask me.

What is Asexuality: [link]
Asexual FAQ: [link]
Support for Friends/Family: [link]
Asexual Visibility and Eduction Net... ]]> ~VonCrowd Mmmm reading week http://VonCrowd.deviantart.com/journal/23535281/ http://VonCrowd.deviantart.com/journal/23535281/ Thu, 05 Mar 2009 05:02:24 PST :iconushersbabe1234:

RULES
- You must fill out EVERY question! No skipping!
- Tag three people afterward.
- Leave a message on their page telling them their tagged.

ARE YOU?
1. Perfect?
Practically perfect in every way! (which is the technical term for HELLZ NO)

2. Tall?
Yep

3. In your pajamas?
and proud

4. Left handed?
ambidextrous

LAST:
1. Friend you saw:
my mom :aww:

2. Talked to on the phone:
Sid- the guy who fixes my car

3. Person to text you:
Errrr....Steph maybe? I don't text very often

4. Was today better than yesterday?
Today is still very young but I have a feeling its going to be a good one!

FAVORITES:
1. Number:
Threee

2. Color(s):
Black, red, greenish blue, brown, tan

3. Fruit:
DRAGON! or bananas...I love fruit

4. Place:
my basement studio

EIGHT EMOTIONS:
1. Are you missing someone right now?
Not really

2. Are you happy?
Indescribably

3. Are you sad?
nope

4. Are you bored?
nope!

6. Are you nervous?
*sighs contently in response* nooope

8. Are you tired?
Perhaps a little sleepy as I just woke up

ABOUT YOU:
1. Real name?
Aim!

2. Nick names?
Aims, Aimeroo, incrowd, crowd, target

3. Eye color?
Brown.

4. Zodiac sign?
Aquarius

5. Male or female?
Female

6. Slut?
nope

7. Smart?
Yes!

8. Hair color?
Black

9. Long or short?
short

10. Sweats or Jeans?
Jeans.

11. Phone or Camera?
Camera.

12. Drink or Smoke?
rarely and no

14. Righty or lefty?
bothy!

FIRSTS:
1. First best friend?
I can't recall

2. first crush?
Pete

3. First pet?
Kate the kitty

4. First big vacation?
Ireland

CURRENTLY:
1. Eating?
no

2. Drinking?
coffee

3. I'm about to:
Do some school work then play outside

4. Listening to?
water running

5. Plans for today?
Sneak attack some homework then enjoy the warmish weather

WHICH IS BETTER WITH THE OPPOSITE SEX?

1. Shorter or taller?
doesn't matter

2. Romantic or spontaneous?
spontaneous

3. Sensitive or loud
both

4. Hook-up or relationship?
neither

HAVE YOU EVER:

1. Drank bubbles?
Oh god yes, it was horrible...then I coughed and they came out my noooose

2. Lost glasses/contacts?
I lose my shades constantly!

3. Ran away from home?
Does the end of the driveway count?

4. Broken someone's heart?
Yes :(

5. Been arrested?
never!! AND THEY'LL NEVER CATCH ME!!! :evillaugh:

DO YOU BELIEVE IN:

1. Miracles?
whole heartedly

2. Yourself?
Some days

3. Heaven?
Yes

4. Santa Claus?
no

4. Love?
yep

5. Do you like someone?
I like many people

6. Do you believe in God?
Yes

7. Answered the truth on all questions?
Yes!


Q: What was the first thing you did this morning when you got up?
A: played with my kitty

Q: Do you have anything bothering you?
A: no

Q: What's the last movie you saw?
A: Pink Panther 2

Q: Where is the last place you went?
A: the kitchen?

Q. Do you smile a lot?
A: I'm starting too :D

Q: Do you wish upon stars?
A: for kicks

Q: Are you a friendly person?
A: usually

Q: Where did you sleep last night?
A: my bed! (it was wonderful)

Q: When was the last time you cried?
A: Monday (it was happy cry)

Q: What was your last thought before going to sleep last night?
A: sea otters

Q: Rate life as of right now one being bad ten being great?
A: 11

Q: What do you... ]]> ~VonCrowd Zzz http://VonCrowd.deviantart.com/journal/22908679/ http://VonCrowd.deviantart.com/journal/22908679/ Fri, 30 Jan 2009 16:57:44 PST all homework and no play makes Aim stare off into space
all homework and no play makes Aim stare off into space
you know, I guess this really isn't accurate.
all homework and no not doing homework makes Aim stare off into space
all homework and no not doing homework makes Aim stare off into space
I still live at home and I have not seen my family in three days
all homework. all the time. all projects due February 5th.
I dislike this day of the five.

:faint:

so how are you?

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deviantArt is... HelpDesk I'm a Beertographer ABCs of dA Inc. ]]> ~VonCrowd epic fail? D: http://VonCrowd.deviantart.com/journal/22407101/ http://VonCrowd.deviantart.com/journal/22407101/ Mon, 05 Jan 2009 03:29:55 PST ItDoesNotHaveMe

[link]

The criteria is very simple- create artwork of any media based on an illness that has had some sort of impact on your life. Help give the community some insight into what its like to cope, vent your frustrations, make something positive out of a less than ideal circumstance. Those reasons aside, you can win some MIGHTY FINE PRIZES!!! They've given away everything from year long subs to prints to clothing plus you'll get a good amount of exposure just for participating!

The contest needs more entries! Pass the word along :aww:

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deviantArt is... HelpDesk I'm a Beertographer ABCs of dA Inc. ]]> ~VonCrowd 3.976 http://VonCrowd.deviantart.com/journal/22039265/ http://VonCrowd.deviantart.com/journal/22039265/ Wed, 17 Dec 2008 19:37:04 PST (no srsly, it was awesome)

Oh, you're probably wondering why I titled this journal with a number (maybe not, but I'm going to pretend you are!)...a while ago I made a promise to try my hardest at school, you know...make everyone proud and all that jazz :aww: so that number up there is my word AND MY GPA! :excited:

one more freaking out emote :excited: yeeeeaaaaah :aww:

Hope everyone has a fantastic holiday season!!

Tell me about a gift you can't wait to give this year :ahoy:

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deviantArt is... HelpDesk I'm a Beertographer ABCs of dA Inc. ]]> ~VonCrowd Catharsis threeeeeeee http://VonCrowd.deviantart.com/journal/21710014/ http://VonCrowd.deviantart.com/journal/21710014/ Fri, 28 Nov 2008 04:50:44 PST
*ItDoesNotHaveMe has successfully completed ROUND THREE of the kickass contest series known as Catharsis! What, say you, IS catharsis?? Well...I'll sing you a definition or two

ca·thar·sis /kəˈθɑrsɪs/ [kuh-thahr-sis]
–noun,
plural -ses /-siz/ [-seez]
1. the purging of the emotions or relieving of emotional tensions, esp. through certain kinds of art, as tragedy or music.
2. Medicine/Medical. purgation.
3. Psychiatry.
a. psychotherapy that encourages or permits the discharge of pent-up, socially unacceptable affects.
b. discharge of pent-up emotions so as to result in the alleviation of symptoms or the permanent relief of the condition.
-dictionary.com
(imagine I sung that last bit in all my early morning, exam stressed sleep drunk glory)

*ItDoesNotHaveMe is a great club for deviants affected or touched by any sort of illness or disorder and the focus of these contests is to not only raise awareness but help deviants cope by producing art! (its so awesome I can hardly stand it)

HERE ARE THE WINNERS!!
*1pen took home the grand prize with this piece about autism


Second place was owned by :devskullkey: with


And *Flutterings rounded out the top three with


You can check out all of the contest entries here>
and find out how you can become a member by checking out :iconitdoesnothaveme:

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deviantArt is... HelpDesk I'm a Beertographer ABCs of dA Inc. ]]> ~VonCrowd plusfavs http://VonCrowd.deviantart.com/journal/21294377/ http://VonCrowd.deviantart.com/journal/21294377/ Mon, 03 Nov 2008 04:45:17 PST :faint:
I am not dead...well not entirely anyways. If you're a highschool student feeling pressure to head off to college but don't know what you really want to do- DO NOT SIGN UP FOR FINE ARTS THINKING IT WILL BE A CAKE WALK. /psa

School is so awesome, I love it to death. Every day I park my car in the lot and do a crazy little OMG ITS TIEM 4 SKOOL jig. It's also very demanding of time and effort hence the psa up there. I'm finally getting caught up with my message center and decided to share with you some new faves! Hope you enjoy them!!





hope you are all doing well!

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deviantArt is... HelpDesk I'm a Beertographer ABCs of dA Inc. ]]> ~VonCrowd Horizons http://VonCrowd.deviantart.com/journal/20229963/ http://VonCrowd.deviantart.com/journal/20229963/ Sat, 30 Aug 2008 04:28:40 PDT Yesterday I worked my last full-time shift and I thought I'd be thrilled to finally be done with that routine but I'm actually going to miss it. I'm so lucky to have a job with very involved and understanding bosses who have easily taken up the mantle of 'best employer I've ever had the pleasure of serving'. Not only are they great but the staff is equally as enjoyable to work with. It's not uncommon to encounter people with whom you simply don't get along but that wasn't the case with my job. (there were frustrating moments but hey that's life!) Everyone worked hard and remained friendly. In spite of the excitement of stepping into something new I miss my job and coworkers already. Luckily I'll be able to make it in for the odd weekend there and there will be plenty of work on Christmas break, Reading week and so on :aww:

On top of that I'm ridiculously excited about returning to college where I will be taking a three year course in Fine Art. I was on the edge of my seat for orientation. Not only am I prepared with all of my books and tools but I have been for well over a month. I've even read through most of my books already :excited: I've been through college once already and learned what to expect, what to do and more importantly- what not to do (just say no to midweek pub nights) I'm also heading in with a more balanced and adjusted attitude I think. I'm really excited to knuckle down and work very hard, to have my artistic weaknesses picked apart so that I may improve in all ways.

I'm also very thankful for deviantArt, specifically the network of fellow artists who have taken the time to comment and fave my work and even build friendships with me here. Art is something that I have always had a hand in, that I always would have produced but thanks to the encouragement and enthusiasm I've received here I have progressed wildly over the past few years.

I came here dabbling with a point and shoot camera, found endless inspiration and fell in love with a language that speaks in the click of a shutter. I have since become fluent with manual gear, won contests, had my work published in magazines and have been commissioned for several projects as a photographer and as a painter. And now, art school! :w00t:
It has been and will continue to be a fantastic journey.
Thank you

teh end...?

deviantArt is... HelpDesk I'm a Beertographer ABCs of dA Inc. ]]> ~VonCrowd game time! http://VonCrowd.deviantart.com/journal/19982404/ http://VonCrowd.deviantart.com/journal/19982404/ Sat, 16 Aug 2008 05:41:22 PDT :iconmortismeridian: :evillaugh: I think it is neat!

Comment anything random and I'll:

a) tell you why I befriended you,

b) associate you with something - a song, a color, a photo, etc.,

c) tell you something I like about you,

d) ask something I've always wanted to know about you,

e) tell you my favorite pic of yours,

teh end...?

deviantArt is... HelpDesk I'm a Beertographer ABCs of dA Inc. ]]> ~VonCrowd I'm back! http://VonCrowd.deviantart.com/journal/19739877/ http://VonCrowd.deviantart.com/journal/19739877/ Sat, 02 Aug 2008 17:43:20 PDT [link]

well, its ONE deviation, but there's about 6 photos stitched together, the best of both worlds :giggle: It's done, hurray!

I picked up some of my text books for school, I'm having fun reading them ahead of class. Not as much fun as browsing though...




teh end...?

deviantArt is... HelpDesk I'm a Beertographer ABCs of dA Inc. ]]> ~VonCrowd about the silence... http://VonCrowd.deviantart.com/journal/19214077/ http://VonCrowd.deviantart.com/journal/19214077/ Sat, 05 Jul 2008 06:18:55 PDT I've been away for far too long.

Just thought I'd update here, let you all know I'm still alive and still love dA though I haven't been able recently to give it the attention it deserves.

Tuition for first semester is paid! I'm going to art school for real! Haha, I'm stoked for that. I've been working a lot lately, to make money for when I'm actually IN school and not working as much. The mural is coming along nicely, I'll have photos up in the next few weeks. The summer is awesome so far, no srsly hot weather (which I HATE, for those of you who didn't know. Me and the sun = mortal enemies.) new friends, new things to do...its been cool.

Expect some bug photos in the next little while...a friend of mine has introduced me to the wonderful world of entomology (which is the study of insects, bugs and all things CREEPY!) I've even started my own bug collection! Learning to pin them properly was cool...I can't wait till they're all done so I can show you guys!

My devWatch has been packed with awesome work, I'm off to +fav like there's no tomorrow. Srsly cool stuff! So what's new with all of you??

here's some drool-worthy thumbs :ahoy:


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deviantArt is... HelpDesk I'm a Beertographer ABCs of dA Inc. ]]> ~VonCrowd GUESS WHAT?! http://VonCrowd.deviantart.com/journal/18588262/ http://VonCrowd.deviantart.com/journal/18588262/ Sat, 31 May 2008 05:50:55 PDT The Jenz0r is a VERY COOL FRIEND OF MINE that you should commence adoration of NOW!!

As if that wasn't enough of a sell, here's some sexy thumbs by Jen!! :aww:




:cake: YAY BDAYS! :cake:

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deviantArt is... HelpDesk I'm a Beertographer ABCs of dA Inc. ]]> ~VonCrowd Now with words!! http://VonCrowd.deviantart.com/journal/18453670/ http://VonCrowd.deviantart.com/journal/18453670/ Sun, 25 May 2008 04:52:47 PDT


:heart:

HEY EVERYBODY, its mee! Combat Chuck! And I love this song because it's about me.
[link]
Well its not a song, and I'm not combat chuck...but it IS about me! For Abstract and Surreal Photography Week I was lucky enough to be interviewed and featured :aww:

I'd like to once again remind everyone or inform you all for the first time if you didn't already know: ^opioid is the most awesome GD to ever grace the staff lineup here at dA. She's incredibly smart, talented and really amazing at getting articles and features up, enthusiastically spreading the word for not only abstract and surreal photography but fetish too! A freakin' maniac she is! It doesn't stop there either! She's also the founder of *ItDoesNotHaveMe, a support and educational group that not only showcases inspired work but also encourages deviants who suffer from disease and illness to use art as an outlet for the trials they endure.
Check out their contest! [link] it's open to ALL media.

Go give ^opioid some love, she surely deserves it! Careful, she bites...a little :giggle:

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deviantArt is... HelpDesk I'm a Beertographer ABCs of dA Inc. ]]> ~VonCrowd omg brb 2 http://VonCrowd.deviantart.com/journal/18143416/ http://VonCrowd.deviantart.com/journal/18143416/ Sat, 03 May 2008 04:41:36 PDT chakrabird for helping me out with some insider info on Yoga, one of the practices the space I'm painting in is used for. Really helpful stuff in finalizing the designs
:w00t:

On the collab front =Madigan and I have traded some ideas/sketches and are off in our own corners working on things that will BLOW YOUR MIND I'm sure. I'm stoked like crazy for it. Lots of hard work though, this is only a teaser of good things to come ;p

I've got a pile of new work stacked up, can't wait to share it with you...just need to find the time :crazy:

sexy thumb time!




SO WHATS NEW AND AWESOME WITH ALL OF YOU LOVELIES?????

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deviantArt is... HelpDesk I'm a Beertographer ABCs of dA Inc. ]]> ~VonCrowd omg brb http://VonCrowd.deviantart.com/journal/17430742/ http://VonCrowd.deviantart.com/journal/17430742/ Thu, 20 Mar 2008 17:45:48 PDT :faint: In other news I've been commissioned to paint a mural. Cool yes? Moar cool: it's 600 square feet (10 x 60) - my biggest painting to date (and probably for the rest of my life :o ) Pictars to follow.

I love u guyz, especially Madi. WE'RE GONNA MAKE SOME SEXY COLLABS WHEN I GROW SOME TIME ON A TREE AND HARVEST IT. I like caps. Tasteful caps. Tasteful caps and lulz. I had the coolest dream last night it was about a castle and a quest to build a key from all these golden bits hidden all over the place and then the exit was this safe that had a cookie in it and the cookie was soooo good. I found the maker of the cookie and I begged to join the bakery staff. And the baker wasn't impressed...then there was a musical number with dancing and montaging and the cookies were a huge success in the end. and I got to be on staff bakin' cookies. JAZZ HANDS!

Castles and quests and delicious cookies I can understand- but me with the ability to cook/bake something non lethal? Yar...that be dreamin

I hope you are all having good times. :ahoy:
bbs

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deviantArt is... HelpDesk I'm a Beertographer ABCs of dA Inc. ]]> ~VonCrowd Best day ever http://VonCrowd.deviantart.com/journal/17256759/ http://VonCrowd.deviantart.com/journal/17256759/ Sun, 09 Mar 2008 13:41:31 PDT


you can't have THAT much fun in summer. not possible.
:heart:

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deviantArt is... HelpDesk I'm a Beertographer ABCs of dA Inc. ]]> ~VonCrowd While at the pet shop... http://VonCrowd.deviantart.com/journal/17212442/ http://VonCrowd.deviantart.com/journal/17212442/ Thu, 06 Mar 2008 16:01:40 PST
I got tagged by ~Venomous-Flames (you should totally click that link btw)

The rules are:

1. Post these rules
2. Each person tagged must post 8 random facts about themselves
3. Tags should write a journal/ blog of these facts
4. At the end of the post 8 more persons are tagged and named
5. Go to their page and leave a comment telling them they're tagged

8 Random facts about myself:

1. Whenever I get tagged I want to drum up some really interesting and obscure facts about myself, but always come up empty handed on the first one. I think it should be something REALLY AMAZING AND TOTALLY RANDOM but I just feel kind of down and ordinary at the time (which is now by the way) Sooo hmm....random fact eh? UUHHM.... Narutard. I am one. (note the extreme lack of fan based art on lined paper posted in my gallery and user name lacking maru, chan and san before you hate on me, kthnx) Avatard. I am one of them too.

2. Without looking at my book shelf I can spot 27 books around my desk/night stand and a couple on the floor beside me. I'm not book-wormy but when I need to know about something, I need to know!!

3. I day dream a whooole lot

4. I listen to music a whoooole lot too. (over 8 hours a day) There's currently 3207 songs on my ipod. I don't use itunes to download, I buy CDs because they sound better, I love looking through the artwork they come with and karma swings both ways. so support some artists if you want support some day.

5. If you were watching a movie I had seen only once in my life and I happened to walk in I could tell you what movie it is within three seconds.

6. I like to think about and figure out how things work. Things like business hierarchies and what TV commercials are reeeally selling. And machines too. When I'm doing drawings of technical things (like say a gundam for example DON'T HATE!) I get bogged down in the details of how the machine actually works rather than making it look good. So far I haven't been able to rationalize the power cell those things would need for all that maneuvering in deep space. Not to mention the energy blades they use. Yes, I know, its only a cartoon and an irritating one at that...but if you really think about it....

7. I frequently dream about photo shoots of really weird things like last week I had one about the world being flooded by tropical fish tanks and doing an indoor shoot of burlesque models through available window light (which looked awesome by the way with all the fish swimming by) and the roof was leaking a bit on the blue shag carpet but it was ok. Most times my dreams look like they've been shot on medium format film (sexy colour and grainy texture) or through an IR filter...something camera related.

8. I think nightmares are fun.

Ooookay...Now I tag!
:icongreykonos: :iconmadigan: :icondeviousduo: :iconcomrade-kelly: :iconarabienne: :iconxxsardisxx: :iconideviant: :iconanjules:
and anyone else who wants to join in the craziness (link me so I can read your random facts)

teh end...?
 ~VonCrowd DD = done and DONE! http://VonCrowd.deviantart.com/journal/17103783/ http://VonCrowd.deviantart.com/journal/17103783/ Thu, 28 Feb 2008 14:18:45 PST Holy Craaaaap! Big huge thanks to miss ^opioid for giving me my very first evar DD!!

I know, I know, a little late to be celebrating now (since I got the DD last sunday!) BUT...I've finally managed to clear my messages and thank all the people who +faved and +watched so wheeeew onto new stuff. Like this journal. Isn't it spiffy? All lacking CSS and such? YES. YES IT IS SPIFFY. gosh. I bet you didn't even notice how fast it loaded since its not bogged down with all-the-cool-kids-are-doing-it-so-it-must-be sexiness.

So. :paranoid: ok I really have nothing to say now that I've fangirled all over ^opioid

How are you?

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deviantArt is... HelpDesk I'm a Beertographer ABCs of dA Inc. ]]> ~VonCrowd Snack Size http://VonCrowd.deviantart.com/journal/16795372/ http://VonCrowd.deviantart.com/journal/16795372/ Sat, 09 Feb 2008 05:30:28 PST
Just wanted to give you a heads up on something I'm really (ridiculously giddy) excited about. Last night I got accepted into Fine Arts at a local college (credits transfer to University of Windsor for Bachelor of Fine Arts) Holy crap. YAY. I get to buy a new lunch box for September. Do you think they still make Power Ranger ones? :giggle:
!!PSA!! I do hereby swear to attend Art School with the humblest of attitudes towards the craft and my own understanding/lack there of regarding this field of study. I will never consider myself or my work better in any way than anyone else's based on the fact that I am a student of the arts. I hereby grant permission to my dear friends and watchers of this fine community giving them free reign to kick my ass should such attitudes arise in me. For reals. I do not want to be one of those smARTasses. !!PSA!!

I'm going to switch up my usual eyeball festivities. Rather than blast you with a bunch of random thumbs I think are dead sexy I'm going to thumb one and talk a bit about why I like it so much. I'm doing this for two reasons. One: I really care about you poor folks with crappy slow internet connections (like myself - 56K dialup. DONOTWANT) and Two: I could use the practice in actually saying what I think.

Feel free to comment on why you like or dislike the deviation, you can even tell me if you think I'm out to lunch with my observations :aww: I don't have feelings, you can't hurt them :giggle:

So here goes! First up is *aqueous-sun with Untitled XXXXXXXXIV

Thinking about the reasons why this is particularly appealing to me takes me back, way back...to my parent's dinning room actually where there's a photo of a very young me ( 4yrs old ) with a pencil in hand and a pad of blank paper on which I was attempting to draw the logo of a local newspaper. For as long as I can remember I've been obsessed with the ways in which we attempt to communicate with each other through visual means. I find that signs, logos and advertisements drawn up by those from all levels of skill say a lot more than what they are intended to convey.
Clearly in this image we have DANGER HIGH VOLTAGE ELECTRICITY. There's also a lightning bolt for those who may not be able to read or don't read English. Bold block letters are meant to be taken seriously, the incorporation of a visual such as the lightning bolt in this case are meant to reach a wider audience to convey the message as clearly as possible.
The condition of the sign carries a different message. The paint is wearing thin in spots, its likely rusty and from the looks of things I would assume that the rectangular void of white paint in the top left hand corner was caused by a sticker of some sort that was plastered over part of the sign and maybe later removed. It looks old and neglected, I wonder if the danger of high voltage exists in this area any longer. If it does I wonder if the desire to warn people has faded over the years. Does this sign still function properly or is it lost in the (assumed) decay of its surroundings? Hmmmmm.

Such textures are as unique as finger prints. To me they are equally as beautiful. On a side note, have you ever looked at your finger prints? A collection of swirling organic lines, original, unique and existing only in ONE place. YOUR hands. With that being said a study showed that a majority of humans can recognize a grouping of FIVE objects without counting, simply by looking at the objects. Five objects, five fingers. It is believed that our familiarity with our own hands causes this. When you consider the artistic nature of finger prints, is it any wonder why we as humans have this instinctive desire to create and design? HMMMM anyways....back on topic>

Images like this spark my imagination sending it in wonderful directions. So many post-apocalyptic movies are littered with similar moving imagery such as crumbling city sky scrapers, deserted highways and over passes consumed by wandering vines. I often think that its in the best interest of the planet and our species that we st... ]]> ~VonCrowd EYEFEAST! http://VonCrowd.deviantart.com/journal/16617919/ http://VonCrowd.deviantart.com/journal/16617919/ Mon, 28 Jan 2008 18:08:52 PST :iconitdoesnothaveme: [link] :iconitdoesnothaveme:
Hey that's only ONE contest link you might say. I says SHUT IT. and click that link MOAR.
now feast your eyes like they've never feasted!!....before.






Aaah so much feasting!

teh end...?
... ]]> ~VonCrowd CONTESTS!!!! http://VonCrowd.deviantart.com/journal/16460789/ http://VonCrowd.deviantart.com/journal/16460789/ Fri, 18 Jan 2008 14:18:07 PST :iconitdoesnothaveme:
*ItDoesNotHaveMe is a community project founded by our very own, very shmexy director of various (also shmexy) galleries ^opioid. Its a sweet support group for the many artists of our community who are suffering from chronic or debilitating illnesses, syndromes, diseases, and disorders (or who have close family and friends who are suffering).

Art is a great way of dealing with the things that get us down and also an effective way to help educate others. *ItDoesNotHaveMe is hosting their first contest AND YOU SHOULD TOTALLY ENTER! Read the fantastic article here [link]
You should also tell all your friends! Get involved, its a great project and a great contest!

Also, I'm judging. :evileye: Here's that link one moar time [link] get pimpin! get creating!

This contest is open to all media! So EVERYONE can put their talents and skills to good use on this one. You have until FRIDAY MARCH 28 2008 to submit (details in the news article, here it is again in case you missed it [link] )
:iconitdoesnothaveme: #Ihaveit

teh end...?

deviantArt is... HelpDesk I'm a Beertographer ABCs of dA Inc. ]]> ~VonCrowd Dedicated feature and some other stuff http://VonCrowd.deviantart.com/journal/16334127/ http://VonCrowd.deviantart.com/journal/16334127/ Wed, 09 Jan 2008 18:00:07 PST IDeviant and I think he was talking about himself and myself. Respectively. So anyways... this dude makes friggin sweet fractals and I shall soon have one hanging on my wall. TEN BY TEN IN REAL LIFE for reals. So this is a feature of some of his awesome work.



Go fav crazy, and comment crazy, I think he'd like that. He's a wordsmith you know, keep a dictionary and google on hand. ;p

In other news:
I'm going to be overhauling my gallery/portfolio in the next little while (20 minutes) and I appreciate in advance all your flames and hate mail for flooding your message centers with updated images, watermarks, copyright info and new work. :aww:
isrslyloveyouguys.

Have I said how much I love the gallery managing tools? Well let me go off on a tangent: Rock. Mi. Socks. I love organization. fin.

teh end...?

deviantArt is... HelpDesk I'm a Beertographer Dusty Sensor? ABCs of dA Inc. ]]> ~VonCrowd Help me figure this out... http://VonCrowd.deviantart.com/journal/15848475/ http://VonCrowd.deviantart.com/journal/15848475/ Sat, 08 Dec 2007 12:41:50 PST
**NOTE... DO NOT FLAME ANYONE, Not that I think you are the types to do that but I'm simply giving an example that defies my understanding in hopes that someone will have answers for me**

Stock: Deviation using said stock:

(spare me the hater comments, I've met Jenni, she's a cool kid)

I know there are fantastic examples of stock use on dA where people have taken shots from many different stock sources and managed to piece them all together rather flawlessly to create something that has real effort and meaning to it. I recognize that it requires skill and good artistic sense.

More often than not I find stuff like this however and it seems (to me) that the stock user is attempting to take credit for some one else's work. I find it hmm, I want to say offensive but I'm not sure if that is the right word. I feel like the stock artist is being ripped off. I sense injustice. Some times (like in the above example and dozens more I've come across) the creator of the stock image has seen the deviation and approves of it. (insert :| ?! here) Maybe it's just me.

Will someone explain this to me?
I'm more than willing to learn...I just can't figure it out on my own.

teh end...?

deviantArt is... HelpDesk I'm a Beertographer Dusty Sensor? ABCs of dA Inc. ]]> ~VonCrowd Yellow! http://VonCrowd.deviantart.com/journal/15622499/ http://VonCrowd.deviantart.com/journal/15622499/ Thu, 22 Nov 2007 14:15:57 PST
You can here [link] and you might see a familiar deviation taking home first prize :giggle:

:rofl: I still can't believe it. I never win stuff! It's a special warm fuzzy feeling when a group of peers, fellow artists, really scrutinize your work and it still comes out a winner. Makes me wanna happy cry a little.

dA's a great place to be, winning or losing. I love this community.

Now...go find a contest and get crackin' on a submission! YOU NEVER KNOW WHAT COULD HAPPEN!

seriously though, I had a really awesome time shooting for the yellow contest. From researching and planning, building the model, to fine tuning the shooting technique....it was intense and I loved every second of it.

Go go gadget creativity. :heart:

teh end...?

deviantArt is... HelpDesk I'm a Beertographer Dusty Sensor? ]]> ~VonCrowd </hiatus> http://VonCrowd.deviantart.com/journal/15349653/ http://VonCrowd.deviantart.com/journal/15349653/ Sat, 03 Nov 2007 17:22:43 PDT
First off, click here to learn all about Halloween at my house this year!

I got some reading done:
-The Annabel Williams Book of Wedding and Portrait Photography (recommended by Matt)
-Scene Design and Stage Lighting 17th Edition by W. Owen Parker, R. Craig Wolf
-1001 Horrible Facts a "yuckopedia" by Anne Rooney (sanity break)
-Designing with Light 4th Edition by J Michael Gillette
-The Best of Wedding Photojournalism by Bill Hurter
-WORK The world in Photographs by National Geographic
-Discovering Art History 2nd Edition by Gerald F Brommer

I'm finding more and more foundation for my belief that art isn't something that we make but rather a language we communicate in. Elements, principals, composition, media, tools, craftsmanship, social comment, religion, aesthetics... I don't want to be considered a photographer. I want to be an artist with a camera.

I went for a walk with my dad today.

Caught up on some movies.... Here's some short reviews

-Earth vs. The spider: aka small town with inept police force is mauled by lethargic tarantula
-The Howling: The doctor is in on it, called it from his first appearance
-Pulse: Technology got you into this mess...it WON'T get you out of it. For the love of God, throw away your cell phone.
-Children of Men: highly relevant.
-300: I brought more soldiers than YOU.
-FireWall: This movie has 37 climaxes. It's the longest movie I've ever watched in less than two hours and I don't mean boring!!
-The Birds: forget the attacking flocks...the paint job on your car will never be the same.
-The Fog: forget the fog, you should be able to SMELL evil of that caliber from a mile away
-American Haunting: Called the ending of that one from the first 15 minutes too
-Scooby Doo 2: heeheeheee!
-The Fighteners: happy comedic relief, death coming through the prison cell was drool-tacular special effects
-House on Haunted Hill: I love back and white horror movies. LOVE.
-Halloween 1-5: yawn.
-The Covenant: better than I thought it would be
-Blood and Chocolate: same as above
-The Grudge 2: emotionally scarred my brother, he's afraid of frying pans and bacon now
-Clue: OMFG AWESOME. Tim Curry, is so great. Plus three random endings on the dvd!

Believe it or not I DID do more than watch movies while I was off. I have a few more books that are work-in-progress sorts of things. Anatomy for Fantasy Artists by Glen Fabry along with Constructive Anatomy, Heads Features and Faces, and Life Drawings all by George B. Bridgman (recommended by Eric)
Helpful books if you're interested in improving your mad doodling skillz.

Miscellaneous adventures in learning:
Blowing bubbles is highly thought provoking yet soothing business. I recommend it three times a week at least.
"I don't know what I would do if..." situations don't turn out the way you think they will.
The greatest hardships teach the most satisfying lessons.
I went to a marriage seminar to see what this whole thing is about and heard some of the most encouraging things. I'm not married, not seeing anyone, not looking to get hitched but it was indescribably uplifting to be released from the pressures that society places on young people to settle down and raise a family.

Find your own path.

SO...what have you all been up to aside from filling my message center with +favs??? (AND TEN BILLION JOURNALS) :faint:

teh end...?

deviantArt is... HelpDesk I'm a Beertographer Dusty Sensor? ]]> ~VonCrowd +fav +hiatus http://VonCrowd.deviantart.com/journal/15073942/ http://VonCrowd.deviantart.com/journal/15073942/ Mon, 15 Oct 2007 17:32:20 PDT





I'm going on hiatus. I will come back, I'm not giving up or anything. I just need a break from the internet...and computers. I have a few books I want to read, some skills I want to build...all that self-improvement stuff ;p

I'm very thankful for the community here, especially all the friends I've made. Many thanks to my watchers, faverz, commenters and :tp: spammers (you know who you are). Thanks for so much support and inspiration.
:heart:

Hope you enjoy the thumbs, hope you are feeling content today :ahoy:
-aim

teh end...?

deviantArt is... HelpDesk I'm a Beertographer http://VonCrowd.deviantart.com/journal/14517940/ Thu, 06 Sep 2007 14:33:26 PDT
On a more serious note> I saw something in the parking lot at the grocery store last night that made me remember this one day when I was about four years old.

I remember getting up in the morning, it was one of those days when you wake up with the sun and jump out of bed filtering through a million possible ways to spend another glorious day on earth. I had on strawberry short-cake pj's, for some reason I remember that vividly, my hair was a mess (some things never change). We lived in this great old farm house, I tore down the hallway to the stairs, bounced down them one at a time then ran through the dining room, kitchen and into the living room and jumped on the couch where I thought I would start my day out right with a few cartoons before mom got up to make breakfast. (ok a lot of things don't change)

The sun was on its way up, the kitchen had a huge bay window in it facing east. It was just one of those days were everything was golden, the sun was so bright, it felt like so many photographs you see of a girl with long wavy hair back-lit by a sunset and though there's motion blur and her features are mostly shadow you just know she's laughing. One of those days that seem to last forever.

My favourite tv show was going to be on soon, one with a skit where you could play along with one of the puppets during a song provided you had a set of wooden spoons from the kitchen to clap together (Size Small? anyone??). That was the best part! I was hoping mom would make oatmeal with brown sugar on it...I was excited about that. I loved oatmeal. All of this I remember.

By now, you're probably wondering what on earth I saw in the parking lot of a grocery store that would make me think of this one day. Well...I'll...tell you.

----I saw an empty beer bottle in a deserted parking spot.----

It made me wonder why people have to drive while impaired. Why, with all the statistics and media coverage and awareness we have these days that prove/warn that its so dangerous...people still insist on being so stupid.

That same morning my mom explained to me about skin and bones and how fragile people are, how easy it is to break them and how much it hurts when they are broken. Later that day we went to see my dad in ICU (intensive care unit) because almost all of his bones were broken. This isn't about the details, it isn't about how long it took those wounds to heal. It's about the impact.

The guy who hit my dad's car was drunk. He walked away from the accident with a cut on his chin from the steering wheel. My dad was not expected to live which puts to rest the justification "Its my life, my car, nothing bad will happen". Though all parties involved survived the impact went far beyond two cars colliding; rippling through families and friends, even time. Over 20 years in the future, evidence still remains, its still felt, its still painful (I don't mean emotionally). I'm not here for sympathy either.

I don't want to stop people from having a good time, I don't want to stop people from getting falling-down-drunk or impaired by other means if that's their idea of a good time.
I want people to stop taking the lives of innocent strangers into their own hands.
I want people to arrive alive, call a cab, sleep over, walk home....whatever it takes, its not worth the risk to yourself or others. This is also a call to the 'responsible' ones out there. Don't let your friends drive impaired. They'll get pissy about it but they'll thank you when they sober up. Steal their keys! Drive them home yourself or get them on a bus/subway/street car. Don't think twice about sparing lives.

Thanks in advance
-family of victim

teh end...?

deviantArt is... HelpDesk I'm a Beertographer Dusty Sensor? ]]> ~VonCrowd please click here http://VonCrowd.deviantart.com/journal/13726468/ http://VonCrowd.deviantart.com/journal/13726468/ Fri, 13 Jul 2007 22:17:20 PDT
Here's an article in the news: [link] To save you a lot of reading (though I suggest you read it for yourself because there ARE GOOD PARTS TOO) however, I'll summarize the points that caused my brain to nearly implode.

Some updates to policy have been made. (scroll down to Policy Revisions and Updates for full details)

iv. We will now allow images made from “doll generators” or “character creators” to be submitted; however these will only be allowed in Scraps due to the fact that they involve no artistic effort at all. In the future a special section may be added to segregate them from the actual artwork on the site.

and

vi. We will now allow the submission of video game screenshots providing they feature actual in-game play with the associated controls/HUD/lifebar/health/etc displayed. These particular screenshots will only be allowed in Scraps due to the fact that they are not actual artworks. In the future a special screenshots area may be created to house them away from the actual artworks on the site.

Rather than "OMFG WTF? BBQ!" all over the place...I'll just repeat one common line between these two updates: "allowed in scraps due to the fact that they involve no artistic effort at all"

This quote is from dA's policy and etiquette:
As a vibrant and growing art community deviantART welcomes all kinds of original artworks; but we MUST insist that the artwork which you submit be your own original works.

To my nearly imploded brain this seems rather ridiculous. I walked away for a few hours, drove around, spent some time with friends....I'm still rather not happy with this to say the least. Disappointed would be putting it lightly.

I browsed through the comments wondering if anyone else felt the same as me and some did! So I didn't have to ask the same question. "Why?" Responses came from the very top indicating basically that there are too many deviations of this nature already existing on this site. Please, don't get me wrong here. I love the staff and I know they are working very hard to keep things running smoothly...but doesn't this seem similar to ...oooh lets say "breaking and entering" being made a legal activity since so many crooks are already doing it?? It has been argued that work of this nature doesn't belong on this site at all and I agree with that...but it seems that since scraps don't show up in galleries or regular search mode, "it'll be ok".

I've been up for a lot of hours straight here....so, perhaps lack of sleep has gotten the better of my typically functional brain. I like to make things work rather than just point out things that I think are wrong but in this case I just can't come up with anything.

Thoughts?
(ps, before getting too far ahead of ourselves I'd like to note that some of these changes were actually implemented a year ago, so says one of the $hat journals and we're not dead yet but on that same note I feel a little like someone is pulling the rug out from under my feet)

teh end...?

Contests! HelpDesk Find me in #photographers #beertographers - ya rly Sensor Cleaning for DSLR

Make great comments! Make great responses! ]]> ~VonCrowd (no title) http://VonCrowd.deviantart.com/journal/13540007/ http://VonCrowd.deviantart.com/journal/13540007/ Fri, 29 Jun 2007 13:54:33 PDT
For the last couple weeks I've been maxed. (read: spontaneous nose bleed inducing stress level) A lot of stuff has been happening, both good and bad with a few things just leetching all possible joy from it all. I keep my head up though. Because I know I can.

And now its all over. It could have been a lot worse, I think the mixed bag of things to deal with has just left me exhausted more than anything else. I can't wait to sleep tonight, it's going to be the best sleep ever.


*B-E-T-H *captain-ass-kick =ThomFaust *antarie =DeviousDuo *didjerama `anjules *vietkatthroughlense ~Shanstar ~spookit =stormingcolour

THANK YOU
Though you may not know it, each one of you have absolutely FLOORED me...with just little things, comments, random encouragement, inspiration, laughter...a lot of things that just caught me at the time when I needed it the most. I'm blown away. Without even knowing what was up you've all been so amazing, you really are awesome human beings. I don't think I could ever find the right words to express what it has meant to me.

I know that I could have done this all alone..........but it really would have sucked.

Thank you. I'll never forget it.

teh end...?

Contests! HelpDesk Find me in #photographers #beertographers - ya rly

Make great comments! Make great responses! ]]> ~VonCrowd Always look on the bright side of life http://VonCrowd.deviantart.com/journal/13096940/ http://VonCrowd.deviantart.com/journal/13096940/ Sat, 26 May 2007 05:20:54 PDT
Ok. Back story.

Every so often (frequently) I come across deviants with really odd galleries in my browsing of this great community. So, I do a few google searches and wouldn't you know these people are just cropping screen shots or other images they find on the web, posting them here, and talking about how great it was to be there, work it, own it. So pathetic.

So I save up all my URL links and report it to the team and keep tabs on these deviants until the work is removed. Usually suffering a little harassment in the process.

It's one thing not to know better, its another to try to justify why its "your" work now because its been recropped or the colour has been adjusted or whatever other minor photoshop business :roll:

I have two things I need for you to do.


ONE: Discuss Do you think people who do this sort of thing should be banned? Right off the bat? Or warned first, banned on second offense?

TWO: Shout out! In order to feel better about this situation (which, regardless of what I say out loud, does get me down a little) I need for you, my watchers or ANYONE passing by my page to drop me a comment to celebrate the fact that YOU post your OWN work here and are very proud of it. I'm proud of you for doing that. AND I want a link to your favourite piece in YOUR gallery....tell my why you are so proud of it :aww: pleeeease

I'll go first.

MY NAME IS AIM AND ALL THE IMAGES IN MY GALLERY ARE 100% MY OWN HARD WORK!!!!!!!!! AND THAT IS THE TRUTH. Damn I'm proud.
:w00t:

I'm groovin on this one lately, mostly because this is the first photograph that perfectly reflects the idea I had in my head, right down to the colour of it. The lighting was really fun to play with and I had a generally great time on the shoot :D

ThumbProud!! (this work is 100% NOT mine, but it does belong entirely to the wonderful people who commented on this journal, take a look and read about why they like these thumbs!)
by =ahhmedicine by *B-E-T-H
by *akyra by *captain-ass-kick
by ~PokinatchaChick by *taylord012000
http://VonCrowd.deviantart.com/journal/10597088/ Thu, 02 Nov 2006 19:03:56 PST
The rules:
* List 11 things you want to say to 11 different people.
* Don't say who they pertain to.
* Feel free to comment, but don't confirm or answer anything.
* Never discuss it again.

1. I admire your great strength and creativity. You've endured more than I think I could handle, more than I think anyone should have to and you remain strong, even though times were hard. You've accomplished so much, I'm so proud of you.

2. You've been the best friend I've ever had even though I've only known you for a few years I feel like we've been connected our whole lives. I can depend on you for anything, seeing your smile and making you laugh brings me the greatest peace. Thank you one thousand times and a thousand times more.

3. I know you'll have a fantastic life because I spent hours praying and wanting that for you. Jerk.

4. You've been more supportive of me than all the people of the world combined. I know there were times when you wanted to kill me, thank you for remaining faithful, for loving me unconditionally. You've taught me so much about everything and made me who I am today. I need you so much, you'll never know. You are the reason my heart keeps beating.

5. You have the most beautiful mind I have ever read. I know at times you feel as though you're floundering in this sea called life but I admire every step you've taken. Good things will come, you'll see a return on this great investment you're making.

6. I know I'm hard on you and sometimes short tempered but I want the best for you. I'm so proud of you, I love you so much you dufus.

7. For some time there has been an impossible tension between us. You stress me out and I probably do the same to you. If you needed me I would be there for you in an instant. I know you know that. I feel let down. This is not ok. I don't know how to fix it.

8. I had a dream about you last night and I woke up feeling lonely. I think I have the biggest crush on you but I'm too scared to admit it. It would never work out, I know this...can't help feelings though.

9. You are so young and so talented, I can't wait until your work is published in hardcover books so I can own a copy. You have an amazing gift, your art has moved me and many others. The world is yours for the taking. Remember me when you're famous!

10. You're the kind of family I've always wanted and always known I've had. Through all kinds of troubles and triumphs you've been behind me. When I felt the lowest I'd ever been you came to me and told me how proud you were of me. It meant so much, I don't know how I could ever show or tell you how much it means to me. I'll be there for you too, I'll stand by and support not just when it is needed but always.

11. I know in your heart you have nothing by my best interests in mind. You really care about me and I love you like family. It has been an honour to help you in all of your ventures. When the future brings you all the best I'll be there painting something for ya!! Thank you for your support, for believing in me and for listening when I just needed to vent. Thank you thank you thank you.

]]> ~VonCrowd Featured!! http://VonCrowd.deviantart.com/journal/10239836/ http://VonCrowd.deviantart.com/journal/10239836/ Sat, 30 Sep 2006 18:17:05 PDT [link]

Hey, I'm the featured artist for October at planetlightworker.com :omfg: :aww:
I'm not entirely sure if you can see the article without a subscription, but its very neat none the less


:heart: =avenescent, thanks man

]]> ~VonCrowd Mass Appeal is Mathematical http://VonCrowd.deviantart.com/journal/9862891/ http://VonCrowd.deviantart.com/journal/9862891/ Sat, 26 Aug 2006 14:03:16 PDT [link]
Above is a link to a journal from a while ago about art. What is art, what is not. Basically: everything is art, some is good, some is bad. Stop wasting your time saying "This crap isn't art!" and start spending your time saying "This is rubbish and I hate it! Carry on..."

So, there's a great big new gripe floating around the site and of course I'm gonna throw my two cents in and you can throw yours in and maybe we'll disagree entirely but you know, that's perfectly alright.

A while ago people were grumpy that the top favs on the front page were always by the same deviants. We want some variety! There are more talented artists out there who should be on the front page!! So, from the soap boxes the cries of many where heard and the staff switched things up with the launch of the new system and OMG wouldn't you know it! There's variety! but....people are complaining again. Now the top favs are lame, they aren't as polished as the old stuff. Sure it was by the same deviants over and over again but hell, they were skilled at what they did.

They were popular for whatever reason and everyone is like omg, its all a popularity contest, she only has ten thousand watchers because she's hot or he's only on the front because he's been here for so long and has a fan base. Art shouldn't be a popularity contest!!! :shakefist:

I'm gonna take all of you people to the south pole where you will fight with penguins for top dog status. Popularity contests exsist EVERYWHERE. So get over it. Its like death, you can't avoid it. Chances are you will never be popular. Does that mean you suck? No. It's just not in the cards for you. If you're making art to gain popularity I can save you a lot of time, money and effort by telling you to knock it off right now. Go be happy doing something else that you actually love doing.

Hmm, I had more to say on this matter...I suppose, keep trying, keep improving, and for the love of GOD stop bitching about stupid stuff!!! Some poor kids don't even know where the crop tool is in photoshop and we're complaining about popularity contests and waaa I don't like the new layout. omg exercise some brain cells and figure it out :lol:

K I'm sorry for sounding harsh...I'm rly tired. but srsly. bugs and animals fight for popularity, don't think you can just end something like that. it would be like ending noses. they've been around for too long and are in some ways useful.

]]> ~VonCrowd don't get mad, get educated. http://VonCrowd.deviantart.com/journal/9336413/ http://VonCrowd.deviantart.com/journal/9336413/ Tue, 11 Jul 2006 20:20:36 PDT "I dissaprove of what you say, but will defend to death your right to say it." - Voltaire

Art n. 1a human creative skill or its application. b work showing this.

Criteria for evaluating art (as outlined in Discovering Art History 2nd Edition Brommer, Gerald F.)
-Craftsmanship
-Design
-Aesthetic Properties (Elements and Principles of Art)
-Reflection of Society

I've been watching some bitter arguments within this community concerning what is "art" and what is "not". Without fancy words or lengthy in depth conversation I will cut to the point. The reactions and responses coming from artists on this site quite frankly make me fear for the future.

ART is a process. It is not a title that must be reserved for only the true shining examples of hard work and skill. It is the effort to arrive, to create, to produce and it is VERY EASY to do. It is insanely simple to hook up a web cam, snap a goofy self portrait and give it a disjointed title. It is sooo easy to doodle your favourite cartoon character in the margins of your note book. You can make a poem that doesn't rhyme or have proper grammar without any effort at all. Melt crayons in the sun on a canvas. All of this is art.

It has met the bare minimum requirements of a massive category and rightly so, belongs. Do you have to like it? HELL NO. Do keep in mind that your opinions will not restore the cosmic balance of the universe.

"I hate songs by boy bands. It is mindless mass marketed garbage." <-- This, a valid opinion, does not make them any less MUSIC. It is quite irrational to think it would and yet people are doing the very same on this website. TO ART!!

Before I continue, a summary. Art is easy to make. *Easily made art is lame but it is still art. And it is perfectly fine to think it sucks. Moving on.

Deviation:
A deviation is a polished, refined, and completed work of art - something you want to showcase, to exhibit. Submitting artwork as a deviation will add it to your gallery (deviantArt Deviation Submission Step 1)

Instead of tooth and nail emotional arguments over art or not lets remember that the direction of this website is more in OUR hands than it is the staff working hard behind the scenes. Why be satisfied with meeting the bare minimum? The requirements are low but the possibilities are limitless. Challenge yourself to learn and to grow, to produce work that will inspire a response, work that makes a relevant statement. Save the doodles and test shots and experiments for your scrap book for they are valuable LEARNING lessons. Combine the skills you have refined and show the world what heights you can achieve.

In Closing:
I've always been one to encourage disruption of the peace when it is due.
I won't say 'play nice' because there are a lot of people out there who will never be nice to you.
For yourself know and live the difference between fact and opinion.
Play Educated.

***********EDIT
I rely too much on my familiarity with my watchers, just want to make something clear:
Easy/Lame as in complete lack of effort, thought or insight. Not ease of production.
A master of painting has learned all the basics and can very quickly and easily produce a pleasing piece of work. The hard part is learning how to do it properly, that is what I'm getting at.

The following continue where I've left off (written by other deviants) [link] [link] [link] please visit
:)

]]> ~VonCrowd My first DD!! (suggestion) http://VonCrowd.deviantart.com/journal/8424028/ http://VonCrowd.deviantart.com/journal/8424028/ Mon, 10 Apr 2006 04:14:37 PDT

I woke this morning to the CUTEST note from =nitah Thanking me for suggesting her work as a DD because :omfg: it got picked!!

Special thanks to ^serpentinekiss for featuring it!

I'm so happy it got picked, all the feel goodness of christmas morning when I was five :aww:

]]> ~VonCrowd oh the HONOUR!!!! http://VonCrowd.deviantart.com/journal/7687380/ http://VonCrowd.deviantart.com/journal/7687380/ Mon, 23 Jan 2006 16:42:45 PST

Doppelganger Winners were announced today!! >> [link]

OMG I got honourable mention!! ME! Hahah!



:giggle: as if! ME! hahahaa I'm so happy!

]]> ~VonCrowd