Artist : Jeffrey Cervantes

I have moved to Tumblr.

2011-09-05T19:47:00.003+01:00

http://jeffreycervantes.tumblr.com/

07 July 2011

2011-07-07T15:18:00.002+01:00

I decided to develop my visual aesthetics by balancing space within work.
The illustration is of Aaliyah, with her 10th year death anniversary coming soon next month, I remember back in 2001 I was literally addicted to the self-titled album, with her named Aaliyah meaning "Exalted one, the highest".

Taken from All Music.com

http://www.allmusic.com/album/aaliyah-r539210,

"Aaliyah waited nearly five years to deliver her third album, but considering that she was essentially growing up -- it was the equivalent of spending time in college -- when she came back with an eponymous record in the summer of 2001, she came back strong. Aaliyah isn't just a statement of maturity and a stunning artistic leap forward, it's one of the strongest urban soul records of its time. Where such peers as Macy Gray and Jill Scott work too hard to establish their ties with classic soul, Aaliyah revels in the present, turning out a pan-cultural array of sounds, styles, and emotions. This sound is entirely unfamiliar -- part of the pleasure is how contemporary it sounds -- but she sounds just as comfortable within the sonicscapes of Timbaland as Missy Misdemeanor Elliott and, possibly, less self-conscious. Aaliyah never oversings, never oversells the songs -- this comes on easy and sultry, and there's a lot of substance here, in terms of the songwriting and the songs themselves. Urban albums rarely come any better than this, and there haven't been many records better than this in 2001, period.

On August 25, 2001, Aaliyah and eight others were killed in an airplane crash in The Bahamas after filming the music video for the single "Rock the Boat".
During this time Aaliyah had now developed a career within the film industry, previously having starred in "Romeo Must Die", Aaliyah was completing her filming for "Queen of the Damned" in addition to "The Matrix Sequels" (which her role was replaced by Marvin Gaye's daughter). Aaliyah was also signed to be the star of "Honey" (which was then given to Jessica Alba), in addition to the remake of "Sparkle".

............................................................................

Today, Aaliyah's music, style and dance routines have been emulated by the likes of Ciara, Cassie, Jojo... to name a few.
With recent music artists like JAMES BLAKE and DRAKE sampling songs such as "Are You That Somebody" and "Let Me Know (At Your Best)", Aaliyah's sound which was ahead of it's time has opened up doors for many musical artists of our time.

............................................................................
Below is a [listen] preview of Aaliyah's self-titled album in addition to a online link of the Interview with Aaliyah's producers talking about making one of the best Contemporary RnB albums of our time.

Exclusive: The Producers of “Aaliyah” Take Us Behind the Scenes Into Making of This Classic: http://youknowigotsoul.com/?p=11345

Late Afternoon: 1st July

2011-07-01T21:13:00.004+01:00

I decided to do another piece today... What started off as a freestyle of a ram then evolved into a hybrid hand-ram creature.
Like the wolves... I wanted to give the illusion of two entities looking like they were about to conjoin or even interact.

I'm open to commisions.

Email me at jepcervantes@hotmail.com

Please check out my website at

http://jeffreycervantes.com
x

IP Man & New Work

2011-07-01T15:10:00.006+01:00

I spent the whole of last night watching a kung fu film with the family. To my suprise, it was epic... Beautiful soundtrack, beautiful camera shots and crazy fighting. I have always been a sucker for kung fu films, but this one is a new favourite. Titled IP MAN,

I friggin love the intensity of far eastern music. Especially the strings. Call me a geek, but I have my knowledge and taste of music. In the near future I would like to attend the Japanese Philharmonic orchestra... Someone get me a ticket to Japan!!!

"Ip Man is a 2008 Hong Kong semi biographical martial arts film very loosely based on the life of Ip Man, a grandmaster of the martial art Wing Chun and master of Bruce Lee. The film focuses on events in Ip's life that supposedly took place in the city of Foshan during the Second Sino-Japanese War. The film was directed by Wilson Yip, and stars Donnie Yen as Ip Man, with martial arts choreography by Sammo Hung."

What really got me was the depiction of the Sino-Japanese War. I never knew that China was invaded by the Japanese. So to me building a script which combined a strong narrative with historical context was very inticing.

During this time I began preparing canvases, ready to make new work.
Beginning my first piece during this time... I wanted to create something that gave the imagery of a wolf... of some sort, a hybrid creation of mythical creatures... something that was animalistic yet aesthetically beautiful.

This developed into two wolves. One facing left, one facing right... I felt that one head wouldn't give the right balance of aesthetic due to the heavy and bold lines it carried.

I'm exploring the colour palette, combining monochrome illustrations with dashes of pastel colour here and there.

I am continuously making new samples of work, so keep your eyes opened.
xxx

New work.

2011-06-29T16:13:00.002+01:00

Wanted to add colour to a old black and white illustration....

I designed this in 2006. During the time when Osama Bin Laden was one of the most talked about people.

I saw many people experience prejudice, with many people perceiving many of the islamic community of being part of terrorism.
I thought to myself, how can people be so ignorant towards other cultures.
There are extremists within every society... and people outside of the islamic community do not see the affect terrorism has on their community.

This fear that alot of the British community have for their neighbours... should be diminished, allowing more communication and understanding between cultural communities and people.

End of June 2011

2011-06-29T00:26:00.003+01:00

It's nearly coming to the end of June... and what a eventful month it has been!
Finally finishing uni, results have been revealed and I am slowly moving my stuff from Brighton back to Aylesbury.
I've been making new work whilst searching for new opportunities.

I decided to try something different... adding colour and experimenting with new visual combinations. It has been a long time since I placed black ink onto a canvas...

I stumbled across Brighton's 2011 Graphic Design & Illustration Graduate Show website... in which showcased alot of great talent.
I remember seeing illustrator Brad Jay's work before starting university in 2008 (I really admire: his work is intricate and finely-detailed... plus I am a fanatic of mythology and strange hybrid creatures!) ... check out his website on http://www.bradleyjay.co.uk ... and more Brighton talent on http://www.brighton2011.com/

...

Over the next few months I am making new work.

I'll get back soon.x

JUNE 24TH

2011-06-24T21:47:00.002+01:00

Last Wednesday (June 22nd) I turned 22. And as I reflect back on the recent years, especially the past three years in university, I feel I have accomplished alot. However, I am not satisfied with what I have achieved as I feel that I can do more.
Finishing university I am realising the importance of persistance, hard-work and determination.
Nothing will come easy... no doubt there will be times when you feel you could just give up.

But I thought to myself,

This is the only thing that makes me happy.

Being able to use my imagination, conceptual thought and my own two hands to produce something which is unique... it is entirely worth the journey.

I will update more often. :)

June 2011

2011-06-13T16:07:00.004+01:00

So I have officially finished university, waiting for my final results to come in the post.

This is the start of something new,
something fresh and exciting.

I stumbled across a great talent, and a song which embodies feeling like none other.

I'll be uploading various things in the next few days.

x

PREVIEW : FINAL DEGREE SHOW EXHIBITION

2011-05-04T23:01:00.002+01:00

The Burt Brill and Cardens Graduate Show 2011

4th Jun 2011 - 9th Jun 2011
Faculty of Arts Grand Parade

The Burt Brill and Cardens Graduate Show 2011

This year’s Burt Brill and Cardens Graduate Show is set to be the biggest and brightest on record. Packed full of innovative exhibits, from fashion to photography and sculpture to design, by students from the University of Brighton’s Faculty of Arts.

From 4 to 9 June 2011, exhibits from more than 500 students will transform the Faculty of Arts’ Grand Parade campus into the biggest gallery in the south-east of the UK. With two buildings and three-floors of gallery space to explore, over 15,000 visitors will discover the work of the class of 2011: perhaps taking the opportunity to commission work or compile a collection before students emerge as leading lights in their chosen discipline.

Now located on three sites, visitors can explore the heart of the exhibition in the three-floors of gallery space at Grand Parade; view Photography students work at Lighthouse, the leading arts agency and gallery based in Kensington Street, Brighton; and delve into exhibitions related to the dissertation research of History of Art and Design students at Pavilion Parade.

For exhibiting students the graduate show is the public climax to their years of study and the beginning of an exciting future. The class of 2011 follows alumni such as Turner Prize winners Rachel Whiteread and Keith Tyson, artist Alison Lapper, and fashion designers Julien Macdonald and Barbara Hulanicki.

Visit our exhibitors' show case for the 2011 Burt Brill and Cardens Graduate Show

Thanks to 16 consecutive years of sponsorship from Brighton-based solicitors Burt Brill & Cardens, the graduate show is one of the city’s cultural highlights. It boasts an ever-popular programme of events including a fashion and textiles catwalk show, student prize giving ceremony, family day and undergraduate open days.

Opening times
Saturday 12 noon – 8pm (History of Art and Design 12-5pm)
Sunday 12 noon – 6pm (History of Art and Design closed)
Monday to Wednesday 10am – 8pm (History of Art and Design 10am – 4pm)
Thursday 10am – 4pm

Free entry. Some exhibition times may vary.

(I will be exhibiting work in the Critical Fine Art department, 206/207, Grand Parade)

Artist: Clem So

2011-04-12T00:53:00.002+01:00

Tonight I stumbled across an artist that parallel's my own concepts and themes within an artistic practice.

As Visiblechinese.com states:

"Clem So's work centres around his Identity as a British born man of Chinese descent and he takes a look at the duality of this diaspora and through his creativity, is trying to convey this as one cohesive whole using his Buddhist practice as the pivot. His work covers a broad spectrum of media from paintings, installation work (including sound) to moving image.

Through a combination of a traditional and digital process, he is able to peel back and reveal hidden layers of abstracted texture and subtle gestures of narrative transmitted as compelling portraiture and installation work.

A desire to connect with his ancestral past feels intangible but it is there nevertheless and So wants to convey that. His parents traveled from the South of China, laying down roots in Liverpool, England in late 1957, the city where he was born and his work touches on the diaspora and this cultural conundrum.

From So:

"The aim of my work is to entice you with a simultaneity of narratives and to nurture your soul with a virtual feast of visual flavours. My desire is for you to stay awhile and converse with my ancestors and perhaps reflect, reminisce about your own family connections. Where am I from? Who am I really? What are all the conditions that caused me to exist in my present form?

"My current work sees me unravel my outer shell and burrow deeper into the underbelly of my own identity and the link between my past, present and future. This is reflected in my illustrations, which begin with the flow of Chinese ink, bleeding, layering and merging with photographic elements such as food, ghost money and terracotta warriors, suggesting, connection, memory, culture and the afterlife."

Clem So completed a one year Foundation course at Blackpool Art College, studied 2 years in BA Graphic Design and Illustration at the Camberwell School of Art and Crafts and has a 1st Class Honours in BA Fine Art from Plymouth University.

So successfully completed his first solo show as part of Devon Open Studios that ran from the 6th September until the 12th September 2009 at Birdwood House, Totnes.

The exhibition Clem So: Portraits of the Afterlife: tracing the intangible, attracted just shy of 600 visitors in the space of one week as many visitors came back for more and brought along their friends. The response was one of surprise and intrigue as the images proved highly emotive, emanating with real inherent power.

One lady said that she had been recommended to see the exhibition on the street on three separate occasions. Over the week several people had been moved to tears by the deeply personal nature of the narrative and the intensity of the show that dealt with ancestry, heritage, cultural identity and lost family connection.

On display were some unique portraits executed in Chinese ink and fused with digital imagery along with installations and more traditional painting and drawings.

After completing his BA in Fine Art with 1st Class Honours, Clem has recently shown work in Plymouth and Exeter and will begin the new year in Bristol. He is always on the look out for fresh opportunities to show and develop his work in new venues and places. One of Clem’s ambitions is to visit China for the first time and record his response and creative process from his time there."

I can see similarities within my work and his, as my planning for my final degree show will hopefully manifest as a installation.

The difficulty in creating a visual language and bridge for cultural translation to a British audience is always a challenge. Although I believe his work speaks upfront to a diverse audience, an example is the installation, "Blood Ties".

From the So's website:

Blood Tie.
Sterile blood bags, old photographs and distillation bottles.
Whatever we feel about our ancestors, we simple could not exist without them. Blood Tie, conveys the idea of transfusion from one culture to another, but also this idea that through genealogy, we carry the responsibility of everyone who made us who we are, in determining our own heritage, culture and identity.

Metaphoric and easily understandable, the visual symbolism of blood bags and photo-labelled jars, I wish he could of developed it more.
In ways such as breaking one of the jars, or even moving one of the jars abit to the left, allowing the transfusion tube to pour around the space (could be interpreted as lost of connection, even CULTURAL REPRODUCTION).

I find So's work very interesting and I would love to promote his upcoming show on this blog spot.

"Clem So continues to exhibit around the South West and has back to back shows in April/May starting with the Immersive Worlds Contemporary Art Exhibition at The Spanish Barn, Torre Abbey Historic House and Gallery The King's Drive, Torquay, TQ2 5JE, 14th-26th April 2011. On display will be some of Clem’s larger works as part of a group exhibition. Included will be some of his videos and his Ancestral Table Installation, ‘Dimsum daily’.

Then from the 26th April, Clem will be showing a Solo exhibition in Exeter based on his portraiture series called :

Clem So: Losing Face

The Exeter Phoenix Bar Gallery, Bradninch Place, Gandy Street, Exeter, EX4 3LS

Tue 26 Apr - Sun 22 May 2011

Gallery Opening Times: MON - SAT: 10am-5pm SUN: 11.30am-5pm. Entry is Free."

2011-03-18T20:56:00.002Z

On and On - Eryka Badu

2011-03-18T20:55:00.001Z

This is what I'm feeling at the moment.

The Future.

2011-03-17T00:02:00.005Z

So I have just a few months until I finish my three years at university.
To be honest i'm between fear and excitement.
The thoughts about what I want to do.

One of my tutors, has given me advice to apply for a Artist studio program in New York, USA.

The Whitney Museum of American Art

From my understanding and research these past few months they really encourage cultural studies and critical thinking on trans-national visual arts.

According to their site (and prospectus booklet)

"The Independent Study Program (ISP) consists of three interrelated parts: Studio Program, Curatorial Program, and Critical Studies Program. The ISP provides a setting within which students pursuing art practice, curatorial work, art historical scholarship, and critical writing engage in ongoing discussions and debates that examine the historical, social, and intellectual conditions of artistic production. The program encourages the theoretical and critical study of the practices, institutions, and discourses that constitute the field of culture.

Each year fifteen students are selected to participate in the Studio Program, four in the Curatorial Program, and six in the Critical Studies Program. Curatorial and critical studies students are designated as Helena Rubinstein Fellows in recognition of the substantial support provided to the program by the Helena Rubinstein Foundation. The program begins in early September and concludes at the end of the following May. Many of the participants are enrolled at universities and art schools and receive academic credit for their participation, while others have recently completed their formal studies."

It would be a dream to study for a year in New York, although in reality finance and living would be difficult. In the future although, anything is possible through the progression of time.

I Can't Make You Love Me

2011-03-16T23:55:00.003Z

This is one of the most beautiful songs I have ever heard.
The lyrics are so intimate, and Tank (R&B singer, known within the R&B music scene for singing on the late singer Aaliyah's Come Over. Tank is said to be a true R&B artist such as Ginuwine, Tyrese, Donell Jones etc).

Although this song has been covered by the likes such as Patti LaBelle, Prince, Boys2Men and even ex X-factor contender Stacie Soloman, I personally feel this cover is the most heart-felt.

Def Poetry Jam - marlon unas esguerra

2011-03-06T22:41:00.001Z

This guy has triggered me to try out spoken word.
A year ago I exhibited a sound installation for a critique.
Translating tagalog bits into english.
It's a beautiful poem

Sa Tabi ng Dagat (By the Sea)

This famous Tagalog love poem was written by Ildefonso Santos in 1897.

SA TABI NG DAGAT

Marahang-marahang
manaog ka, Irog, at kata’y lalakad,
maglulunoy katang
payapang-payapa sa tabi ng dagat;
di na kailangang
sapnan pa ang paang binalat-sibuyas,
ang daliring garing
at sakong na wari’y kinuyom na rosas!
Manunulay kata,
habang maaga pa, sa isang pilapil
na nalalatagan
ng damong may luha ng mga bituin;
patiyad na tayo
ay maghahabulang simbilis ng hangin,
nguni’t walang ingay,
hangganq sa sumapit sa tiping buhangin...
Pagdating sa tubig,
mapapaurong kang parang nanginigmi,
gaganyakin kata
sa nangaroroong mga lamang-lati:
doon ay may tahong,
talaba’t halaang kabigha-bighani,
hindi kaya natin
mapuno ang buslo bago tumanghali?
Pagdadapit-hapon
kata’y magbabalik sa pinanggalingan,
sugatan ang paa
at sunog ang balat sa sikat ng araw...
Talagang ganoon:
Sa dagat man, irog, ng kaligayahan,
lahat, pati puso
ay naaagnas ding marahang-marahan

Spoken Word : My new stage of creativity.

2011-03-06T22:10:00.001Z

Inspiration

2011-03-06T22:06:00.000Z

The Gift of Barong is a story of two generations of Filipino-American surfers as they travel to the Philippines for the first time to experience first-hand how it is to be Filipino. Dan Moreno and Jon Villar are the two surfers who never find value in their own heritage, until now. Their trip to the Philippines is a total immersion in a unfamiliar culture, which they have relied on hearsay and written articles. They will come face to face with the real Filipinos in their own native space. Dan and Jon will integrate with the communities, play Filipino music, eat native fruits and delicacies and surf the islands with the locals.

At the end of their trip, both surfers will provide us with highlights of their physical, emotional and spiritual experiences. The Gift of Barong is not only a surfing odyssey, but also a journey of culture reconnection, identity crisis and personal healing.

Ama [Father] Can you understand me? - Poem

2011-02-26T20:28:00.000Z

my father, can you understand me?

ama, maaari kang maintindihan ako?

or is the separation more than just a generation gap
more of a cultural translation
in our own home?
can you understand me?

maaari kang maintindihan ako?

understand that life for the young ones
is different from the young ones back at home?
that when you say home?
i think of a three week holiday?
even though we have a house in the philippines
that i seek comfort in our house in the countryside
that is where i love to be

na kung saan ay i love na maging

by the train track and sheep and cows.
as you enjoy the pineapple plantations, papaya and coffee beans.
I enjoy walking through the english creeks
it's not that i don't admire what grandfather gained,
but i admire what you have gained.
a english home in a country you never thought you'd see when you were younger.

can you understand me?

maintindihan ako?

Broken Tongue : Poem

2011-02-26T20:27:00.000Z

Split.
Hatiin my tongue sa dalawang.
Told to keep mother's native dialect sa bahay.
Behind sarado doors
Umangkop sa dominant
The language para kaugnayan to other
Upang to progress
This ay kung bakit my tongue ay nasira.
ay Broken.

Split.
Split my tongue in two.

Told to keep mother’s native dialect at home.
Behind closed doors
Adapt to the dominant
The language suitable for relating to others
In order to progress

This is why my tongue is broken.

J

Nicholas Hlobo

2011-02-12T14:02:00.000Z

Artist : Tacita Dean

2011-02-12T14:01:00.001Z

Artist: Doris Salcedo

2011-02-12T13:59:00.001Z

Artist : Hew Locke

2011-02-12T13:54:00.000Z

Tinie Tempah on Artist Chris Ofili

2011-02-12T13:53:00.001Z

Artist : Ai Weiwei

2011-02-12T13:51:00.001Z

7th February 2010

2011-02-07T15:16:00.001Z

I'm in here, can anybody see me?

6th February 2010

2011-02-06T16:17:00.000Z

6th February 2011

2011-02-05T23:57:00.003Z

It is true when they say life is too short.

The final scene of "Six Feet Under" illustrates this very well.

As Claire says farewell to her family, she takes out her camera to take a picture. As she looks at them through the viewfinder, Nate stands behind her, telling her “You can’t take a picture of this; it’s already gone.” (Nate is actually deceased)

As she drives to her new home away from her family, several moments are revealed.

Each one portrays the future deaths of each of the character.

"Six Feet Under" is a remarkable script with the deceased communicating with the main characters. During these last few moments, the deceased accompany the soon-to-pass.

This is a touching clip which should be seen by everyone.

Life is too short and we should appreciate the moment.

Soundtrack song : Sia (Breathe Me)
One of my favourite artists, try to buy her albums esp. [Colour the small one] and [Some people have real problems]

x

5th January 2011

2011-02-05T01:09:00.003Z

Recently finished my dissertation titled, "Contemporary British Art and Diversity" which has been a very interesting research project.
During this time I have been contemplating the direction of my work in which has been coming alot quite strongly these past few weeks.

My focus has been on regaining knowledge of my own history which originates from the Philippines.

The interesting history behind the Philippines is the Spanish colonalisation.
Although Filipino history is a mixture of Malay, Chinese, Mexican, American etc, the Spanish colonisation is the most visible within culture and tradition.
From the converting to Catholicism to the traditional dance and clothing inspired by the Spanish.

Above is a preview of my photograph/computer aided/illustrations in which focuses on regaining history, in this case, due to my birth in the UK, tracing history is now digital in the form of world-wide-web and digital sources. This concept of being able to access historical evidence which may be (abstractly) personal, defines the BRIDGES and RELATIONSHIPS we have between societies/communities/countries. (WE ARE NOW ABLE TO BE INTERNATIONAL) Everything is just in our reach just by typing KEY WORDS or even through ELECTRONIC MAIL. We are distant in location, but are able to talk to people/communicate through the WEB.

In trying to regain Identity through the means of digital research (I emphasise digital in connection to the importance of location)may somewhat lose the substance of the moment you realise your historical position in connection to what historical events happened before. Not actually being able to regain history by being there, de-personifies the discover... and in some cases shifts the history to being more distant by LOCATION than by TIME.
This is going to be interesting!

17th January 2010

2011-01-17T23:34:00.000Z

9th January 2011

2011-01-09T23:08:00.000Z

At this present time i'm considering my future prospects for Summer 2011 onwards.
Soon I will be finishing art education having learnt a considerable amount. Life changing, I feel like it's been a valuable experience.
Currently finishing my research report on cultural diversity within the arts in England, it delves within the mentality of artists from BME background, whether or not they consider themselves a BME artist.
I will be posting a excerpt of my research on my website next month.

How To Become A Successful Artist

2010-12-05T22:16:00.001Z

People may see this as funny (as I do) but in realisation,
it is true.

For many artists of Black Asian and Ethnic (BAE) background, this is the challenge for them. Whether they choose to acknowledge it or choose to ignore it.

Identity of an BAE artist becomes part of your practice, even if you don't actually emphasize it within your work. For professional curators, critics and peers, your identity will become a part of you as the profile of an "artist".

I say this in knowledge of artist Anish Kapoor, stating himself he is a "Artist first, Indian second", which is amusing as many critics and even the Turner Prize writers have emphasized his ethnic origin and his practice's connection to Indian spirituality...

In realisation of my own practice - there is a problem : in trying to get a British audience to engage with the concepts behind my own work, eg, identity politicis, historical background and the relationship with multiculturalism.

In research of diversity within British contemporary art, I have realised that many artists, curators and writers have touched upon the discourse produced by post-colonialism and eurocentricism within British art institutions and the arts sector.
I give reference to the International Institute of Visual Arts, based in the London's west end, in which holds the archive to the only archive and library in which is dedicated to Black and ethnic minority artists, curators and exhibitions.

For BME artists, there is the difficultly for their art to be judged by the quality of their work as their quality of identity within work could overpower the level of engagement (whom have delved within identity politics, e.g writings of Stuart Hall, Homi Bhaba and Judith Butler).

For artists of "diverse background" the question in which should be brought up is,

"Who is the target audience?"

"For the universal?"

Of course the "universal" cannot be the realistic aim, as art itself is very elitist and is not in the interest of everyone.

"For the majority"

Then question who is the majority?

In analysis of British multicultural society, it is the "caucasian" whom is the majority. And saying that, the "caucasian" is the most dominant within British contemporary art.

I understand this will be controversial, but in connection with the video posted above, it is a international issue,
still in 2010, we have the problem of how diversity in the arts is actually addressed -
When British and American art is eurocentric and prominently "white" middle classed.

Do artists of ethnic origin create work for the majority or do they create work for the minorities? This question could predetermine the success or even the future of an artists practice within British art, be it mainstream or as many artists, curators and writers have stated, "in the margins".

I give my shout out to artists and curators,

Rasheed Araeen
Adrian Piper
David Medalla

and so many more.

x

It Get Better Project

2010-12-05T21:04:00.000Z

The It Gets Better Project, created in the United States,

here is abit of the "about page",

About the It Gets Better Project

Growing up isn’t easy. Many young people face daily tormenting and bullying, leading them to feel like they have nowhere to turn. This is especially true for LGBT kids and teens, who often hide their sexuality for fear of bullying. Without other openly gay adults and mentors in their lives, they can't imagine what their future may hold. In many instances, gay and lesbian adolescents are taunted — even tortured — simply for being themselves.
Justin Aaberg. Billy Lucas. Cody Barker. Asher Brown. Seth Walsh. Raymond Chase. Tyler Clementi. They were tragic examples of youth who could not believe that it does actually get better.
While many of these teens couldn’t see a positive future for themselves, we can. The It Gets Better Project was created to show young LGBT people the levels of happiness, potential, and positivity their lives will reach – if they can just get through their teen years. The It Gets Better Project wants to remind teenagers in the LGBT community that they are not alone — and it WILL get better.

What is the It Gets Better Project?

In September 2010, syndicated columnist and author Dan Savage created a YouTube video with his partner Terry to inspire hope for young people facing harassment. In response to a number of students taking their own lives after being bullied in school, they wanted to create a personal way for supporters everywhere to tell LGBT youth that, yes, it does indeed get better.
Two months later, the It Gets Better Project (TM) has turned into a worldwide movement, inspiring over 5000 user-created videos and over 15 million views. To date, the project has received submissions from celebrities, organizations, activists, politicians and media personalities, including President Barack Obama, Secretary of State Hillary Clinton, Rep. Nancy Pelosi, Adam Lambert, Anne Hathaway, Colin Farrell, Matthew Morrison of "Glee", Joe Jonas, Joel Madden, Ke$ha, Sarah Silverman, Tim Gunn, Ellen DeGeneres, Suze Orman, the staffs of The Gap, Google and Facebook, the Broadway community, and many more. For us, every video changes a life. It doesn’t matter who makes it.

The website www.itgetsbetterproject.com is a place where young people who are lesbian, gay, bi, or trans can see how love and happiness can be a reality in their future. It’s a place where our straight allies can visit and support their friends and family members. It’s a place where people can share their stories, take the It Gets Better Project pledge, watch videos of love and support, and seek help through the Trevor Project and GLSEN.

In the recent light of the media coverage of gay teen suicide from suicide,
the musical drama show, "Glee" created a storyline connecting to gay bullying,

In analysis of all of these reports, media coverage and light cast upon the focus on "anti-gay bullying", to me it is suprising that this is still existant in 2010.
Personally for me growing up, racism and sexual discrimination played a massive impact on my child and teenage years in which I really believe formed the pathway I've created for myself.

Of course it is great news that people are now taking "Anti-gay bullying" as a international campaign, but for so many young gay teens in the previous two decades or even further back, it's unfortunate that this high quality campaign is just beginning now.

November

2010-11-11T21:29:00.001Z

According to several UK sources, the Art Council England’s funding for “culturally diverse” arts will be cut short. With the recent university strikes, funding for art institutions, galleries and art organisations, is isn’t a surprise that anything related to the arts will be affected by this proposal.
So why does this concern me?
With a determined mind frame to work within the visual arts in whatever opportunities in the next few years, or as I am hoping after my graduation in 2011, this may be an addition to the “already known” difficultly in employment.
For me though, the questions arise, will these cuts deeply affect me, or now are there equality within British art?
My position as a “culturally diverse” artist, will I lose out on certain opportunities due to my ethnicity, and the influence it has on my practice?
Many would argue that “culturally diversity” policies made by the Art Council England in fact promotes not equality in “multiculturalism”, but alienates the rest of contemporary British art. It may be causing the “culturally diverse” artists to become limited and restricted. As I read in a previous Black artist’s interview, he was never invited to do artist talks unless it was “Black History Month”.
But arguing against it, many would insist it is allowing equality and “celebration” of the diversity within the United Kingdom.
For me, this exploration is insightful and will hopefully allow an understanding whether this “cut-back” will prevent certain opportunities.

This also brings into question my art practice, with a recent debate that my work influenced by “cultural identity” is in fact introverted and causing “guilt” to a British audience. “Guilt” as one said, due to my own “celebration of my ethnicity”, for an English viewer, this may make them question their “appreciation of their ethnicity” and “Englishness”.

Of course, what is “Englishness”?

As I say now for “Filipino-ness”

It is a construction, a construction of identity.

It is not your “being”, but a factor of your “being”.

For me now, there will be yet another major shift in practice, thoughts and ideas.
I am currently doing my final year of university, in which has been refreshing, inspiring and exciting. Apologies for everyone who has added me on twitter, I don’t go on there as much as I hope to!
Please keep your eyes on my website as major changes will happen within this month.

X

13. Room 13 (Private Room) @ Artist Residence

2010-07-29T22:58:00.001+01:00

Engraved Guitar on Chair - Left

Woodcarvings by window - Left

Me in the middle. HAHAHAH!

Yes I worked at the Artist Residence.

A opportunity to do create work in one of the rooms, (Private Room - Room 13) turned to a part time job in September 2009.

The Hotel Inspector aired today on Channel Five at 9pm.

A year ago the hotel WAS a different enviroment to what it is now.

I have learnt so much and met so many people through the Artist Residence.

It has been a mix of ups and downs, crazyness and odd experiences.

I wish the Artist Residence all the best for the future, but I know it'll be a very popular destination for visitors to Brighton.

(THIS REMINDED ME, I SHOULD'VE DONE A SCREENSHOT OF ME IN "ANISH KAPOORS:IMAGINE" on BBC...Ah well.)

What Number Now?

2010-07-29T12:32:00.000+01:00

So...

100 Artists For Pride Exhibition is currently up -

Madre Di Dios
Woodcarving with Ink
£140

It was a very successful turnout and quite a few strong pieces of work.
Hizze herself (the organiser) made a beautiful piece in which i was in awe of.
The exhibition will be ending early next month.

My new creative venture -

Colour Republic - Interior Art & Mural Work

http://www.colour-republic.com/colour_republic_decoration_murals_jeffery.html

Tommorrow is the launch of Stephanie Coffey's exhibition at Artist Residence
and the launch of "ArtFor Pride".
So i'll have to jump from one exhibition to the next.

This weekend i will be working for the ArtFor gallery. Their upcoming exhibition
"ArtFor Pride" will be donating 50% of sales to support 2010's Pride event this August.
Prospects for this opportunity is participation in a exhibition for the Mind charity the end of 2010. I'm already thinking of work for then.

Also in the pipeline next week is helping a talented fashion student, in whom i was able to model for last March for the annual fashion show.

I'm also signed up to BreatheBrighton, so look out for my profile.

P.S
Look out for Artist Residence on "The Hotel Inspector" Channel 5 - 9pm

I began working there when they started filming.
Let me just say, the hotel has progressed so far from what it was.

11. EnMoney

2010-07-22T19:11:00.001+01:00

you're one of my best friends,
but sometimes you can be my worst enemy,
you can't do anything for my health,
when your there, i smoke like a chimney
and drink til i can't stand straight,
because of you i've gained and lost friends,
i see you at work,
at home,
you're always in my pocket,
in my bags,
you slip through my fingers too easily,
with you i just don't think properly,
with you i always dine out and buy expensive clothes
but when your gone,
i can't even afford to buy myself a decent breakfast,
why do you do this to me,
over and over again,

money,

your my enemy and a friend.

10. Pricing Passion

2010-07-22T14:01:00.000+01:00

Argh.
Every artist's nightmare.
Pricing their artwork.
How can you price artwork when it's like selling one of your babies.
It can't be done properly.

So what we have to think about is...
The financial climate at this time,
The location and clients/consumers/audience
How much time (effort and technical skills apparantly doesn't have any right in contemporary art)

Is £160 too much...
Or too little?

If I think about it now,
i'm 21, still an art student, still not acknowledged by some as a "full-time practictioner".

It's like for example,
A not so known musician or singer selling their album.

Usually the costs are more demmanding due to the payments that mainstream artists/musicians
have to pay (printing, their record label, taxes...etc)

Me, I have no strings attached (professionally speaking!... Don't worry B!)

So I can price my work in what I feel is suitable.

Now thinking...
£160 is abit too much.

But thinking now... I do have BILLS and a life to pay for.

Remember every drip of water from the tap ain't free.

That pisses me off so much for some reason.

Think about it, we can't walk around outside without paying something...

if we don't spend anything outside...

we spend pennies just indoors.

If only all the enjoyments of fun were free!

EVERYTHINGS JUST WONDERFUL... no really it is.

9. Highest level of change

2010-07-21T23:11:00.000+01:00

I've had such a good day today.

Never thought i'd say this, i have never been this happy and in love.

Deciding to order a few drinks and on approaching the bar my eyes
directly went onto a familar image. It was a promotional leaflet for 100 Artist For Pride.
I'm making final decisions on what to exhibit for this Sunday's
100 Artists for Pride exhibition and tommorow/or friday, will dropping off the work in order for it to be hanged.
I'm also planning a meeting with ArtFor regarding my volunteer work for their Pride Exhibition.
"Artfor is a voluntry organisation with twofold intent- to provide an inexpensive platform for local, small scale artists to exhibit their work, and to raise money for local and international charities, causes and appeals.
In 2010 these charities include the Red Cross appeal for the Haiti earthquake disaster, and the Brighton Pride festival."
Also a few days ago I sent a email to Brighton Collective to keep their eyes open for Stephanie Coffey's photography and creative writing exhibition, in which they were more than happy to promote.
Thankyou again Brighton Collective for all of the support they have shown.
So things are gradually picking up pace again, and next week will be a jam packed week in which i'm so excited about. People used to say i'm a workaholic,
but it's only when I want to be.
Cause a change is gonna come.

8. Sigur Ros

2010-07-20T23:07:00.001+01:00

Stayed up all night til 5am last night.
My body clock is f*cked up so badly, I wish I actually had a schedule at the moment.
So I woke up and rushed to meet photographer Stephanie to help her with her photoshoot.
It involved me smashing a fish bowl full of water. One word. Wet.

I haven't been doing much today, mainly just trying to sort out outgoing money.
A unhappy moment in which I hate every month.
Only good thing about today is that I got paid... and i'm spending the day with Ben tommorow!

Made one piece of artwork today,
I did it from scratch, listening to Sigur Ros (Yes I don't just listen to RnB and Soul music). It formed into a bird... then not just any bird... a hummingbird...

I ran out of pens, which wasn't much help.

Which means more money outgoing...

=s

I love Sigur Ros, just researched them today and apparantly they disbanded a while ago.
To every artist who's trying to find a good soundtrack.
This is a good choice.

7. Cigarettes (2009)

2010-07-20T01:24:00.003+01:00

It doesn't make no sense,
just like cigarettes,
i breathe in the words you say to me,
but inside i can't withstand the capacity.
i choke on words,
and break the silence,

addicted to you like syringing arms,
there's no gentleman or sentimental charms
*unfinished*
2009

5. Ben (2010)

2010-07-20T00:58:00.000+01:00

Portrait of Ben

You magnify the details in the fabric,
Trying to find a solution to the cracks in the foundation,
When cigarettes met your lips,
Arousal by soft fingertips.
You look up to constallation for consolation.

The blue moon,
can't tell you anything,
But loneliness,
Though he's beautiful,
He feels mutual,
That it's a mirror that he sees,
The blue moon,
can't tell you anything,
But he wants to tell you,
he's listening.

Lightyears away from his so call friends,
He wishes he could shoot and shine.

He waits for you, hoping you decide to smoke,
When you're inside the house, he tries to poke,
his head beside your window.
He's just wants someone to know he's there.

The blue moon,
can't tell you anything,
But loneliness,
Though he's beautiful,
He feels mutual,
That it's a mirror that he sees,
The blue moon,
can't tell you anything,
But he wants to tell you,
he's happy your here.

4. Flashbacks

2010-07-20T00:54:00.001+01:00

So today...
I got a unexpected phone call, it was my friend Stacey.
I hadn't seen her since art college, 2 years ago.
So I ran down the hill nearly getting hit by cars and went to meet her
in the lanes.
She spontaneously decided to take her friend Oli to Brighton to get a tattoo for his 21st birthday.
It was so interesting seeing a tattoo artist at work.

We both talked about how different we both looked,
but still we acted like the teenagers we were back in college.
Flashbacks.
I missed it all. The people, the studio, the art we made.

I apologize to everyone from college who I don't keep in contact with.
I still look back at old facebook photos, especially the ones of Berlin.

Went to the beach, then for drinks...
It was a really good catch-up.

3. Recall

2010-07-18T14:21:00.000+01:00

I was listening to Lauryn Hill's Unplugged album, and I totally forgot I did this.

I think I need to get back into doing mini art videos. They are fun.

2. Influences

2010-07-18T12:16:00.000+01:00

I know it's weird posting another post on the same day.
What am I suppose to do? I'm at work the whole day, might as well be slightly constructive.

NOW,
These are my influences from the 90's to now.

Picasso - Guernica

I haven't actually seen this artwork in the flesh.
Maybe sometime in the future I'll be able to.
It made me change my perception of art when I started back in art college.

Frida Karlo (Artist) - Her Life Through Her Work
I was totally inspired by her diary aswell as her artwork.
Tragedy upon tragedy created Frida's intimate collection of biographical work.
Check out the movie, "Frida", it's one of my favourites.

My Two Favourite
Aaliyah (Singer) & David LaChapelle (Photographer)

I was, and still am obsessed with Aaliyah's last album "Aaliyah" 2001,
it played a major part when I was in school, silly I know, but that was all i listened to.
Photographer LaChapelle, colourful, campy and odd.
I bought his £50 book when i used to take my trips to London after art class.
It was well worth it.

Let's not forget about Jazzy!
Jazmine Sullivan (Singer and songwriter)
I'm speechless about J.S
Found out about her in 2004 with her song, "Backstabbers", in which was part of a collection of unreleased songs under her old label JIVE.
Last year I actually was lucky to go see her at the Jazz Cafe in Camden, London.
And it was amazing.
Look out for her album.
I definitely am.

AND
KILEY DEAN
SINGER - SONGWRITER
Talented and persistant.
Her unreleased album got me through.

1. Start

2010-07-18T08:55:00.001+01:00

Sitting here at 9pm on a sunday morning.
In my playboy vest top, blue jeans and red tattered plimsoles.
I'm at work here at the Artist Residence.
www.artistresidence.co.uk

I've been thinking alot about the past year, how much i've done.
Many would say i've done alot, but personally. I wish i did alot more.
I can't say that I haven't learnt alot along the way.

I've got alot of plans for the next coming weeks.
But still, it may look like I don't.
I just don't like to jam pack my schedule so that I don't have time to relax.

Currently I have a few projects going on,

which includes the upcoming exhibition

...
....................................................................................
Thirteen Art Productions are to bring together another one hundred visual artists to raise funds for Brighton and Hove Pride with an exhibition ‘100 Artists for Pride‘.

The exhibition will launch on July 25th at new art-space ‘The Twilight Gallery’ which is part of a new massage and yoga centre ‘The Jing Institute‘ on 28-29 Bond Street in central Brighton.

All art is for sale and a minimum of 10% will be donated to Pride plus all profits from the launch day. Refreshments, a lucky dip, live entertainment and music will form part of the opening event on Sunday July 25th 4pm - 9pm. Two further opening evenings on July 29th and August 5th 6pm - 8.30pm will feature talks by the artists themselves.

100 Artists for Pride - Brighton

I have had a difficult time trying to choose a piece of work in which would be suitable,

My dilema was to either exhibit something in which relates to the exhibition or to exhibit work in which would have a more definite possibility of selling (100 Artist's for Pride donates 10% of sales towards Pride)

.................................................................

I'm also currently helping promote a dear friend's exhibition.
Canadian Art Photographer,
Stephanie Coffey,

"In The Water I Am...

Private View: July 30th 2010 6PM-9PM
Art Photographer - Stephanie Coffey
A Collection of Photography & Creative Writing
...
Artist Residence, Regency Square, Brighton

Free Admission

http://www.stephaniecoffeyphotography.com/
http://www.coffeydarling.blogspot.com/
http://www.artistresidence.co.uk/

Stephanie Coffey, photographer and creative writer spent most of her recent years between a Walmart and strip-mall filled suburb close to the thriving metropolis of Toronto, Canada.

Now currently living in England, the transition away from Canada was a new exciting experience in which led to her Artist in Residency programme this summer 2010. The innovative program allows new and/or established artists to stay in the hotel for up to two months and work on their creative skill and also creating a relationship for the artist and the Hotel’s creative space.
Coffey's work focuses on the emotions and the relationships humans manage to create and also destroy during their short existence. Her photographic work is strongly influenced by the balance between light and dark, searching to obtain a humanistic element that she hopes the audience can relate to.
During her residency in the hotel in Regency Square, being close to the ocean has inspired her. In turn it has created the most intimate collection of work in which is universal to an art audience.

"When you think closely about it, water is a large element of survival on this planet. Our bodies are filled with it, and we need to consume it to allow us to live. However, it is not only survival that draws us near. People find solace being close to the ocean. They feel free floating weightlessly within it and in her short time in Brighton so far she has come across many people that have said that something about being in Brighton has made them feel as though they can forget about life’s worries for a little bit and just fall victim to the calmness of the crashing waves. Conversely, water is not always this dreamy. It can smash into people and knock people down. We are not invincible and sometimes we can drown."

Through a series of photographic portraits, short stories and/or poetry, Stephanie is hoping to explore these themes in depth and bring these questions to life. She hopes to create the series “In the Water I Am…” An exploration of human experience and a natural element that we can never escape…"

Stephanie's recent work is a major change from her previous fashion influenced work,
i've had a preview of some of the work, and I feel they are beautifully taken.
She's a really talented photographer who I know will go far in her realm of the industry.
............................................................................

My opinions and views on the political side are slowly creating canvas works.
I need to update my website for that, oh yes... and i will be uploading more of the "Grint's Of Brighton" mural commision.

Grint's Of Brighton Mural : Was done this Summer 2010

I'll upload work next time.
(Here's a preview of one I did last week)
.............................................................................
Also,
a Brighton & Hove based company has given me the opportunity...
I'm not going to say who and what it is just yet.
But i'll update you when their website launches!

www.jeffreycervantes.com