Koi Story

Goodbye Koi Story

2013-08-27T21:09:00.000-05:00

Hi all, I've decided to let go of Koi Story. I started a new blog though, and if you are interested, you can follow along here. It includes a little bit more of an explanation. - Meanz

Favorites Lately v3

2013-08-20T00:18:00.000-05:00

This series of gifs. How The Face Changes With Shifting A Light Source. (Anyone know the source of this?)

This awesome image of geometric print/color mixing from All Knit Wear.

These are incredible portraits created out of wire mesh by Seung Mo Park. Click here to view more.

This Pizza Whipped illustration by Wish Candy

This beautiful photo of Audrey Hepburn.

Fashgif is one of my new favorite tumblrs. A majority of the gifs are just strange, but also funny and just plain cool.

Marcel the Shell with Shoes On. I know this has been up for a long time, but my brother just showed me recently! So funny. View the second one here.

This amazing screenprinted cat sweatshirt!

Alone in a Crowd Table by Rolf Sachs.

This upcycled apple computer cat bed from Atomic Attic! Love it.

This gorgeous vintage 1950s red lace party dress.

These adorable heart gloves from Yastik Izi.

Artist Spotlight: Wishcandy

2013-08-12T12:15:00.000-05:00

Wishcandy aka Sashiko Yuen's style is a blend of kitschy, retro, hypersexual imagery. Most of the illustrations are done in muted pastel colors. I discovered her recently on tumblr and fell head over heels for her illustrations. On her website she describes her work as, "essentially a sassy candy-coated horror show. It's full of compassion, eroticism, violence, and the search for true freedom. Inspired by retro culture, street fashion, kitsch, beauty, and the grotesque."

I also am always really intrigued by artists' processes and it's nice to see other artists showcase how their work comes to fruition. Through her tumblr, you can see how ideas are sparked and where she gets her inspiration. It's really incredible, she's very talented, and seems so sweet!

Where else you can find her:
Website
Shop
Tumblr
Twitter
Facebook
Instagram

Thoughts?

Denim and ikat

2013-08-06T18:17:00.003-05:00

what i wore:
denim shirt from Gap (buy similar here)
ikat skirt from Charlotte Russe (buy here)
two tone circle sunglasses from OC Shades (buy similar here)
(my fave) black comfortable wedges from Blowfish Shoes (buy similar here)
black bucket bag from Forever 21 (buy similar here)
carved deer antler necklace from Inanimate Objects (buy similar here)
lipstick in Russian Red from MAC Cosmetics (buy here)

I absolutely adore my new denim button-up. I've been waiting one for so long now, but I could never find one that fit me the right way until now. I think it'll be a great staple in my wardrobe from now on because I don't think I will ever tire of denim. Also, this is the first time I've worn this ikat skirt, I'm not sure why, it's a great fitted skirt with a great summer pattern. It's been sitting in my closet for over a year now, but for some reason as I was buying my denim shirt I had this skirt in mind. I think that textures and colors work well.

So, today I went to the Des Moines Art Center with my friend Lauren, we wandered around checking out the various new exhibitions. I really enjoyed seeing Midwest Pressed's art on the walls too. I'm a fan of how they utilized screenprinting to create these colorful, fantastic works. I like the gesture line qualities and the layering effects they use. Also, I was really excited to see the new exhibition, Pyllida Barlow: Scree. I enjoyed the large sculptural installations that seemed to take over and engulf parts of the art center. I love the raw materiality and textures of the works. Just breathtaking. You can read more about the exhibition here.

I think, if you live in Des Moines, taking photos within one of the cairns is pretty cliche. This doesn't stop me from doing it of course. Anyways, this piece in the photos is called "Three Cairns" by artist, Andy Goldsworthy.

What would you wear with a denim button-up shirt?

How my art has been displayed v2

2013-08-04T12:38:00.004-05:00

It makes me so happy to see how others display my art. This is the second edition in this series. The Untitled (quote) print along with another was traded to one of my professors in college. I love his work, and I was so honored that he wanted to do a trade with me.

The Katy Perry Beetle was and insect I drew to be a part of my senior thesis show. I posted it on instagram, and I think Abby fell in love with it. I really enjoy how instagram has allowed my art to be seen. She liked it so much she wanted it on a t-shirt. Now she's the only one that owns this t-shirt at the moment. She does a good job of styling it as well! Oh, did I mention she's an illustrator and has her own etsy shop that I love?

Artists supporting artists!

Eventually, I will post about my own art collection. I would like to get a little more art and have some things framed before I do though.

If you missed the first edition of this series, click here!

Thoughts?!

Untitled Mural in Des Moines

2013-08-01T09:00:00.000-05:00

what i wore:
Thrifted vintage striped dress (buy similar here)
Emma t-strap flats in black c/o B.A.I.T. Footwear (buy here)
Revlon Lip Butter in Wild Watermelon (buy similar here)
double amethyst necklace from Inanimate Objects (buy similar here)
amethyst triangle ring from Moorea Seal (buy here)

I stumbled across this mural in a photo on instagram, and set out to find it with my friend Alex today. It is located near Mars Cafe in the Drake neighborhood (exact location here). This mural was created by Jordan Weber, a local artist whose work is rooted in social activism that is portrayed through the use of recognizable cartoon characters (read a great article about him on Gestalt Creatives here). Not only is his work aesthetically interesting, but it also opens up discussion.

Once again, I am so excited about the emerging public art lately in Des Moines (1, 2). Although, I read here that the mural is only temporary, I'm happy that it exists right now and I got the chance to experience it. I can't believe I didn't even know about it until recently when it was done in 2011. Isn't that strange? Anyways. I hope to keep up more with public art, and hope to take more photos with everything I can! It's an exciting adventure.

So onto the outfit. I simply adore this vintage striped purple and gray puff sleeved dress. I picked it up thrifting one day and knew right away it would be a perfect light, airy dress for summer. I love the thin stripes and light gray. I've got to say, this lip butter is amazing. I like how it fades evenly and acts like a lip stain. It's perfect.

This day, I taught Alex how to sew a zipper pouch, we went to Drake Diner for dinner, I got the amazing veggie rarebit burger, crinkle-cut fries, and a strawberry milkshake of course. Then, we headed over to the Drake Neighborhood's Farmer's Market where I picked up some delicious cherries. After that we searched for the mural, found it, and spent a while there taking photos. Then we walked to Mars Cafe where I got some iced coffee, and headed to Creative Coldsnow to wrap up our day to look at art supplies where I bought a couple moleskin journals which I will attempt to use daily or at least weekly.

Other sources to check out:
Des Moines Greater Public Art Foundation
Street Art DM Blog
Jordan Weber blog
Gestalt Creatives

Thoughts about this mural? I would love to hear them.

Hokuri Nail Tutorial

2013-07-30T15:23:00.003-05:00

My friend, Lauren who is a video artist wanted to create a diy for her film reel, so I got the opportunity to collaborate with her. The concept was her idea, and I just did the hand and nail modeling. She did the editing, typography, and everything. She's talented isn't she!?

Anyways, this Hokuri nail tutorial is very simple and easy to follow! You can choose whatever colors you want to use and as many as you want of course. We used pastels and it created a really beautiful watercolor feel that's perfect for spring and summer, but I would love to try it with metallics or darker colors sometime.

Will you try this tutorial?

Style your pretty nails with a lovely pastel dress!

Reunited, With Bees

2013-07-29T11:06:00.002-05:00

what i wore:
thrifted blue dress with pleated skirt (buy similar here)
tan faux leather jacket with eyelet detail from Target (buy here)
purple suede heels in Eggplant a Kiss c/o Chromatic Gallerie (buy here)
lipstick in Girl About Town from MAC Cosmetics (buy here)

With a name like that, why wouldn't this be one of my favorite murals in Des Moines? I've been really enjoying all of the colorful murals popping up around downtown Des Moines (like this one) and would love to see this trend continue. I discovered this mural driving one day, and finally had the chance to come back to it and snap some photos.

Reunited, With Bees is a mural by local artist Frank Hansen. I think it's fantastic. With a touch of whimsy and an edge in a naive style, it makes for great public art. Here is a good article written about the artist by Art Beacon.

Before coming to this mural, David and I had just gone to see Jersey Boys with his family at the Civic Center. I don't know much about musicals, so I didn't really know much about this one going it, but I thoroughly enjoyed it! I'm glad that we get the opportunity to see productions such as this one.

The weather has been reminiscent of fall as of lately, and I really enjoy it. I even got the change to wear a faux leather jacket, even though as the day went on, it got a little too hot, but that's ok. I love the this blue jewel toned dress. It's so basic and easy to wear!

What are your favorite murals in your area!? I'd like to see/hear about it/them.

Patterns

2013-07-27T15:22:00.000-05:00

I've always been a big fan of patterns, and I have been practicing by making my own with some of my drawings. The first one is a controlled but chaotic bee pattern. I wanted to add some contrasting colors and create visual balance and movement. I might have it printed on fabric for a scarf. I think the colors turned out beautifully. The second one was created from a drawing of my cat, Louie! I love all over cat patterns and it was inspired by the illustrator, Harriet Gray.

If you are interested in either of these patterns, you can find prints, cell phone cases, and other things on my Society 6.

Thoughts?

Arnold's space

2013-07-26T09:00:00.001-05:00

Arnold likes to lay next to me as I work in this chair I thrifted a while ago. I've decorated with a cat pillow, and a colorful blanket. It's just a cozy spot for him to sit so he can keep me company. Anyways, as many of you may know, I love taking photos of my cats (a little too much maybe?) and any chance I get to show him off on my blog, I'll do it! Hope you enjoy these photos.

Do you create spaces for your pets or is that just bizarre!? I might just be a crazy cat lady in the making.

How my art has been displayed v1

2013-07-24T12:38:00.000-05:00

I've had the wonderful opportunity to do some commissions and sell some art locally. I thought it would be cool to see how others have displayed my art in their homes/studios. I think the art that we collect and own says a lot about us as individuals, and I believe that this is a good chance to sneak a peek into the lives of people that enjoy art.

I am also interested in how people in general display their art in their homes and what the art means to them. I hope to take this idea and create another mini series at some point, so if you collect art of any kind, please e-mail me at meanzchan[at]gmail[dot]com with the subject ART COLLECTING if you are interested in being featured or contributing somehow.

The color palettes are plucked from the art itself as well as the spaces in which they are displayed. I think the color relationships between the art and spaces are really interesting.

I am hoping to keep this a regular segment on the blog as long as people keep purchasing my art. I am also continually thinking about selling some of my original artwork on etsy.

Thoughts?

Easy floral headband

2013-07-18T20:48:00.000-05:00

I love a good floral headband, and decided to go ahead and make myself a few and now I would like to teach you how to do it. It's very easy and fairly inexpensive.

What you need.

- fake flowers (I grabbed a few from a bouquet)
- a headband (I got a pack of 5 from Hobby Lobby from $3)
- scissors (a nice sharp pair)
- glue ( I used 9001 high-strength adhesive)

First, you cut off the bottom of the flower, the part that connects to the stem because you want a flatter surface to glue. Do that which each flower.

Then, use your glue (you only need a small amount) and apply a dot on the back of the flower, then wait for it to dry. You can either hold it until it dries or find something to keep weight on the headband and flower.

I ended up adding seven flowers total! I love how simple it is, and it's a great accessory in the summer time for music festivals and everything else!

If you decide to try this d.i.y. please, link me to some photos! I would love to see what you come up with.

Bruno and Harvey

2013-07-10T20:06:00.002-05:00

I recently finished up this commission for someone recently of her two pets, Bruno and Harvey. They are ink on card stock. Hope you like them! I'd love to hear your thoughts.

If you or someone you know would like a commission feel free to contact me via e-mail - meanzchan[at]gmail[dot]com

Prices vary depending on size, paper type, image and medium.

Purple tribal dress

2013-07-09T20:49:00.001-05:00

what i wore:

Thrifted purple tribal dress (buy similar here)
California Sunshine headpiece by Moorea Seal (buy similar here)
Yellow necklace c/o Francesca's Collections (buy similar here)
Neon pink shoes from Target (buy similar here)
Lipstick in Russian red from MAC Cosmetics (buy here)

Life has been pretty good lately. I'm still in search of a full time job, but I've gotten a few interviews and hopes are still high. I've also started to freelance for a small firm locally, and I get to work remotely, so that's been fun. I've also gotten a commission for a cat and a dog to work on. Oh, and I've been watching a lot of Miyazaki movies, like Howl's Moving Castle, Kiki's Delivery Service, My Neighbor Totoro, and Spirited Away; I really can't get enough of theses movies. I've been watching a lot of Adventure TIme too, because sometimes I just need some mindless fun to watch while working on projects. I have always been pretty into animation.

I have been having the best luck thrifting lately, and I've also been sewing a lot more recently. I finally feel pretty productive, and it's a very nice feeling.

What are you favorite animations?

Shop my outfit:

Independence Day

2013-07-04T09:00:00.000-05:00

If you are in America, Happy July Fourth/ Independence Day. A few friends and I started celebrating early, last night with some sparklers and light painting. This is what we created.

Have you tried light painting? What do you think?

Gauzey Sheer Vintage Dress

2013-07-01T13:12:00.001-05:00

what i wore:

Gifted pattern sheer vintage dress (buy similar here)
teal loafers from Maps (buy similar here)
light pink sunglasses from Zara (buy similar here)
tan belt from Target (buy similar here)
lipstick in Girl About Town from MAC (buy here)

I can't believe it's July already, happy July 1st! So, one of my professors gifted me this lovely vintage dress. It's the perfect lightweight summer dress. I love how a different colored slip could change the way this dress looks. I chose to go with black today, and the wonderful teal and blue colors in the patterning pair well with my new loafers I got in China!

I'm still job-hunting. It's a difficult situation - but it'll be worth it in the end right? Social media is also not helping. Although I pride myself in not comparing myself to others, I find it pretty difficult lately. Everytime I see a friend or former classmate get a job, I go into panic mode and I just keep wondering why it's not happening for me. It's not that I haven't worked hard. I've work my ass off these past few years in college, or so I thought. At least I'm able to calm myself down by creating, doing some art commissions and freelance work. I just still wish I had more to do - there's no better time to start new hobbies, right?! Not working and not going to school gives me way too much free time that I just do not want. I'm not giving up though! I'll pull through - I just have to, and I have an interview tomorrow! Wish me luck.

Any tips for a job seeker?

Welcome Back to Walnut Street!

2013-06-27T13:06:00.004-05:00

These photos are from the Welcome Back to Walnut Street event in Des Moines, that I attended recently. This event is an effort of the Downtown Community Alliance with help from Mickey Davis, project manager at Des Moines Social Club, to introduce the public to the redevelopment efforts within Walnut street. There were pop-up shops, food trucks, live music, a pop-up gallery that I was happy to be a part of (my display is the third image from the top), and a collaborative art making space featuring local artist Jon Pearson and his work. I was really intrigued by this idea of collaborative art. Basically, the artist put up signs around this slightly enclosed space off to the side of the street the invited the public to participate in art making. There were various panels set up inside the space with a variety of media spread out on a table for public use. It was interesting to see how others interacted with these panels. My boyfriend even contributed to a couple panels, and it was a lot of fun seeing the work transform in front of your eyes from various contributions. I really love the idea of collaboration and this just hit the spot. It is a fantastic idea, and I hope it happens again and more often.

Oh, and of course we had some amazing tacos from the Taco Loco truck.

If you are in or around the Des Moines area, you should try to make it to one of these events! It's amazing how much this city is growing and changing.

Additional Welcome Back to Walnut Street events will be held on Walnut Street from 11:00 AM – 2:00PM on the following dates:
July 19, between Sixth and Seventh streets
Aug. 16, between Seventh and Eighth streets
Sept. 13, between Fifth and Sixth streets

PS China pictures will come soon. There are just so many to go through! Hold tight.

What do you think of public collaborative art? Would you contribute?

Kidecals Review + Giveaway!

2013-05-23T01:34:00.003-05:00

I was so excited to be able to review these items from Kidecals. I picked the ombre keycals because the colors are so fun, and I like how all the letters are lowercase. It really brightens up my keyboard and the stickers are thin enough that you can barely tell that they are there. They are also very easy to remove, I know this because I had to reposition a few of them. It might seem a little tedious to have to put each individual sticker on the keys, but honestly it took me only about 10 minutes. I'm really happy with them so far. They are sleek and well made and add a nice punch of color to your keyboard! I also got some other small crafty keycals (pictured above) that I will use on my keyboard.

The giveaway is open internationally. The winner with be announced via twitter (if applicable), contacted through e-mail, and announced on this widget in this post. The giveaway ends May 29, 2013 at 8:00 PM. Good luck and enjoy!

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Scorpio Rising

2013-05-21T10:21:00.001-05:00

MINKPINK Scorpio Rising mini dress from Urban Outfitters (buy here)
baku wedges c/o Blowfish Shoes (buy similar here)
black floppy hat from Target (buy similar here)
lipstick in Ruby Woo From MAC Cosmetics (buy here)

This weekend has been pretty life-changing for me. As you all know, I graduated college yesterday (photos to follow soon). It was also a day where I met and networked with some great local artists, photographers, musicians and just overall creatives. This meeting gives me hope for the art community here in Des Moines. There are a lot of great people and I'm excited for future collaborations.

Any special events happening in your near future? I've love to know.

Crochet and Floral

2013-05-19T10:00:00.000-05:00

what i wore:
hat from DMAC gift shop (buy similar here)
crochet and floral dress from Tea and Tulips (buy similar here)
v-neck layering cami from Old Navy (buy here)
baku wedges c/o Blowfish Shoes (buy similar here)
lipstick in Candy Yum Yum from MAC Cosmetics (buy here)

Today is the day I graduate from college. I am beyond ecstatic. Over the past few years I've worked so hard to get to where I am today, and I feel like I have matured so much. It's a great feeling and I'm so happy to have shared this journey with you all. I am hoping to get back to blogging more regularly, and will be sharing more bits and pieces of my life and of course my new journey to find a job. Thanks so much for all of your support!

So, I wore this outfit on a day date with one of my best friends. I love it when she helps take my outfit photos because we like to goof off, and you can tell in the pictures how much fun we had. This is one of my favorite summer dresses because it is the perfect mix of crochet and floral patterns. This is also one of my favorite outfit locations. The floral trees are in bloom and just absolutely beautiful. The only sad this is that the blossoming trees don't last very long because the flowers fall off easily, but it is definitely an incredible.

Tell me about one of your favorite summer dresses!

Floral on Floral

2013-05-17T15:23:00.002-05:00

what i wore:
Thrifted floral crop top (buy similar here)
Thrifted floral skirt (buy similar here)
cat eye sunglasses from Sunglass Warehouse (buy similar here)
baku wedges c/o Blowfish Shoes (buy similar here)
lipstick in girl about town from MAC Cosmetics (buy here)

I wore this on my last day of finals ever (well for now at least) and I graduate this upcoming Sunday, May 19th with a BFA in Graphic design and a minor in drawing! I am so excited to finally be done, but now comes the hard part looking for jobs in the "real world". I welcome this challenge though and I can't wait to see where this degree takes me! If you are interested you can view my website here.

Anyways, I love pairing floral patterns together. I think they make for a wonderful combination and there are so many possibilities!

What are you favorite pattern pairings?

Trinity Place Giveaway

2013-05-16T22:50:00.003-05:00

I've teamed up with Trinity Place to offer all of you a great giveaway! You can enter to win a $75 gift voucher towards any pair of LeBunny Bleu or Michael Antonio shoes. They have really adorable shoes and I picked my favorites above. The giveaway is open internationally and will close on May 28, 2013. The winner will be announced on this giveaway in this post, on twitter (if applicable) and contacted by e-mail. Good luck and enjoy!

*Please do not create specific accounts just to enter giveaways - this will disqualify you from winning the prize. I will be checking entries to make sure you have accomplished what was asked, so please be honest!

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Shoes clockwise from top left:

Gracey in mustard
Tovey-PU in coral
Max-met in gunmetal
Mint Bunny Motive Ballet flats
Kiara Loafers
Lenta Ballet flats

No Action Too Small

2013-05-04T08:55:00.003-05:00

what i wore:
Frost dress from Dame and Maiden (buy here)
black textured tights from Target (buy similar here)
light grey Anne Klein coat from Dillard's (buy similar here)
Francoise booties from Shoemint (buy here)

What's better than a gorgeous brightly colored mural? One that is educational as well! My interest in this mural was peaked by an Instagram photo I saw. After I saw it last night at the art crawl in the East Village, I looked up information about the mural. It turns out that this mural entitled, "No Action Too Small" by Chris Vance was commissioned by the Metro Waste Authority to inspire and educate the public on recycling and protecting the earth. The artists used recycled paint with some of it coming from Metro’s own Metro Hazardous Waste Drop-Off. I think that this is a great and progressive step for the arts in Des Moines. You can read a little more about it here. One great thing about public art is that it has the ability to bring people together, everyone has access to it and can enjoy it.

Anyways, I had a great night last night out with the boyfriend. We honestly don't get out much, but have been trying to make more of an effort. The first Fridays of every month usually contain a lot of events here in Des Moines. First, we stopped by at the art opening of Figmentation, the BFA Thesis show comprised of 5 talented classmates: Megan Ault, Katie Foster, Andrea Piekarcyzk, Garrett Roskam and Stephanie Werning. It was fantastic. Second, we stopped by the opening of III presented/curated by The Eye at the National Heritage Museum Gallery featuring three local artists: Jon Pearson, Cat Rocketship and Dan Welk. It was a mix of sculpture, painting, performance and photography. Lastly, we stopped at the craft crawl in the East Village. We went to Eden to check out The Moon and the Honey (and I bought a Lucy doll, and you can buy one here), Domestica to check out Basemint, and Hill Vintage to check out Ramona Muse. All of it was fantastic.

Tell me about an art event / mural that you love in your local community!

Shabby Apple Giveaway!

2013-05-03T09:20:00.003-05:00

I am excited to partner with Shabby Apple for a giveaway! One lucky winner will win $50 to spend at Shabby Apple, however they please! Shabby Apple is an online dress boutique that specializes in vintage and retro dresses. Click Here for vintage dresses.

They have so many gorgeous vintage inspired dresses, but what really caught my eye are the lovely tulle tutu skirts that they have! If I won this giveaway, I would probably use it towards buying the blossom skirt. It's perfect for spring and the pink blush color is neutral enough to wear on any occasion, dressed up or down. To dress it down I would wear it with a loose boxy crop top, studded booties to give it more of a rocker vibe. To dress it up I would wear it with a fitted lace top with a classic pair of pumps for a classy feel.

You can enter the giveaway through the rafflecopter widget below. You must complete both mandatory entries to win. The giveaway will end May 10, 2013 at 11:59 PM. Giveaway is open to U.S. residents only! The winner will be announced on this widget and twitter (if applicable) and also contacted through e-mail. Enjoy and good luck!

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Wishlist: Trinity Place Dresses

2013-05-01T16:15:00.002-05:00

Trinity Place is a new speciality department store located in New York. I absolutely love the retro vibe of all the clothing in this store. Since spring is here and summer is coming up, I figured why not create a wishlist of pretty dresses for the warmer weather! I love the floral and shape patterns and the range from neutral to fun/bright colors.

Also, They are hosting an amazing $500 Sweepstakes that you can enter here!!

What would you buy if you won!?

(I would buy all the dresses that amount would allow me to buy.)

Dresses clockwise from top left:

Scallop dress
Cross My Heart Dress - Coral Vintage Daisy
Aye Aye Sailor Dress in Cobalt Sunflower
Sunny Side Up Dress in Black Gingham Rose
My Cuppa Tea Dress

Twisted Square Dress In Green Irregualar Squares

Pretty Prom Dress In Red Irregular Squares

The Princess and the Pleat Dress

Pointed Collar Contrast Trim Dress

Polly Pocket Dress

Retro Revival Dress - Cream Sunflower Dress

Sunny Side Up Dress In Navy Vintage Daisy