The Adventures of C86

Kitsch Greetings

noreply@blogger.com (Matt Lyon) — Tue, 17 Jan 2012 22:22:00 +0000

I found a selection of greetings cards buried in my wardrobe the other day. Many of them are embossed too for added tactile pleasure. Look at the colours! It would be a crime not to share these wonderful designs...

RIP VHS

noreply@blogger.com (Matt Lyon) — Sat, 07 Jan 2012 21:28:00 +0000

I've been recording films on VHS since the early 1980s. As the technology at the time was new and expensive, my parents rented out our first top-loading VCR from Granada, a now defunct chain of TV suppliers. This was a time when video formats were still fighting for dominance between VHS and Betamax, when film rental stores doubled-up on their collections to cater for both. It was also a time of so-called 'video nasties' and tape piracy (the first pirate video I saw was ET, months before it was released in UK cinemas)

Last week, after 30 years, I finally decided to throw all of my tapes away. I no longer own a VCR that works properly, and I can't remember the last time I watched a film in this format. Bidding a fond farewell to the collection allowed a final wallow in nostalgia as I reacquainted myself with what I'd recorded over the years. To see a closer look at the tape labels and the films / programmes that I recorded, click HERE

And amongst all the tapes were a wonderful selection of boxes. Here are a token number of different manufacturers and versions collected over the years

Favourite Music Releases of 2011

noreply@blogger.com (Matt Lyon) — Wed, 28 Dec 2011 22:12:00 +0000

For me it's been a transitional year for music, at least in terms of the artists and genres that I'm drawn to listen to. My playlists have been dominated by single releases and mixes, as such not reflecting the dominance of albums or any singular direction of sound. This is no bad thing; in fact, I find it exciting in the fact that it preempts things to come on the near horizon. Even so, within this stew of music on the move there have still been a number of noteworthy releases.

In no particular order, here are my favourites from 2011... Watch out for updates of anything I've forgotten

Demdike Stare - Elemental Parts 1 & 2

Released a few weeks ago, this is the first half of a 4-part vinyl set. These initial releases are named Chrysanthe and Violetta, with the following Rose and Iris expected in early 2012. The familiar sound of rich and darkly ambient tracks are always a hauntological treat

Hyetal - Broadcast

Hyetal's debut album reflects many of the avenues that are emerging in the 'post-dubstep' arena. Some of my favourite tracks encompass a sound not unlike Vangelis's Blade Runner in collision with 80s synths and Knight Rider. Even so, this is definitely reinvented and new

Kuedo - Severant

Kuedo is none other than Jamie Teasdale, better known as one half of the mighty Vex'd. Whereas his counterpart Roly Porter's debut for 2011 Aftertime is a dark collection of ambient noise and experimental electronica, Kuedo's direction is clearly more melodic and rooted in the 'post-dubstep' camp. This is top quality music full of exciting ideas and precision. Definitely one of the top releases of the year

Lego Feet - SKA001CD

This is the 20th anniversary reissue of the SKA001 limited 12”, including additional tracks not available on the original release. Over an hour’s worth of innovative Autechre from 1991, sounding as if it had been recorded yesterday

Martyn - Ghost People

Yep, more 'post-dubstep' and a damn fine album from Martyn

Old Apparatus - Old Appartus / Zebulon

The mysterious Old Apparatus launched this year with two fantastic releases, complete with an instantly recognisable auditory and visual aesthetic. Check out their website for free mix downloads that promise more exciting things for 2012

Patten - GLAQJO XAACSSO

I love this album. It's full of sounds and that collide in fresh and exciting patterns, combining elements of electronica, beats, ambient, abstract, psychedelia... Three remix EPs are available to download for free from Patten's Soundcloud, and his recent live set for Boiler Room was mesmerising (even if many of the listeners at the time didn't seem to 'get it')

Plastikman - Arkives 1993-2010

This is a must-have for any fan of Richie Hawtin, techno, acid, or quality IDM. The unique sound of Plastikman that he described as sounding like music from inside a speaker has finally been remastered and brought together in a single collection. Available on both vinyl and digital formats, this is pure chemical music

Sandwell District - Sandwell District

This debut album from Sandwell District is more or less a digital release of their 2010 vinyl Feed-Forward. Sandwell District as both a recording artist and label are responsible for some of the most minimal and hypnotic techno releases over the past few years. Their aesthetic is stripped back to bare essentials, with some of the label's releases devoid of track titles or credits. Interestingly, yesterday's Tumblr post announced that from today the label will be focusing upon live performances rather than vinyl releases, as well as alternative creative outputs

J Mascis - Several Shades of Why

The ever-talented J Mascis of Dinosaur Jr fame finally released his first solo album this year, comprising mainly of acoustic tracks. As ever, this album proves why he is one of the best guitarists and songwriters out there. Beautiful, emotive and timeless

Venetian Snares - Cubist Reggae

This year has been surprising quiet for Aaron Funk, considering that he is usually known for his prolific musical output. Any new Venetian Snares' release is welcome, so these crazily titled four tracks of typically experimental beats are a fitting reminder that he's still out there in more ways than one

Dave Monolith - Welcome

David Barnard's debut album on Rephlex is treat for anyone still awaiting the long overdue return of Aphex Twin. Quality production and sequencing, and a sound reminiscent of AFX's Analord releases, the mystery of Monolith has had many conspirators suggesting that this is Richard D James himself. Whatever the case, this is great music

Machinedrum - Room(s)

The rebirth of Travis Stewart on Planet Mu has given him the opportunity to explore much of what is current on the cutting edge of the electronic scene. Rich layers and wonky sequences of vocal samples and sounds echo a variety of inspiration sources from his many years of experience on the scene

Peaking Lights - 936

I almost forgot to include this album because it feels like it's been in my playlist for longer than a year. One of my surprise finds at release, this has rightly garnered praise and honourable mentions throughout 2011. Listening to this album is pure bliss - lo-fi and psychedelic with some warm undertones of bass and dub. Lovely

Massive Attack vs. Burial - Four Walls / Paradise Circus

And the accolade for my favourite release of the year goes to this. Limited to 1000 vinyl copies, these two 12+ minute tracks are absolutely stunning, and in my opinion the best that Burial has ever recorded. Due to its rarity, upon release fans were up in arms at ever being able to own a copy. I eventually tracked down a decent digital transfer here if you want to have a listen. Burial also released Street Halo this year, which also ranks as another favourite for 2011

Whizzer and Chips

noreply@blogger.com (Matt Lyon) — Tue, 20 Dec 2011 11:04:00 +0000

Salvaged from my childhood comic collection, here are two covers from the Christmas editions of Whizzer and Chips (1979 and 1980)

Cemetery Gates

noreply@blogger.com (Matt Lyon) — Sat, 08 Oct 2011 15:45:00 +0000

After last weekend's unbearable late summer heatwave, today's return to Autumn was perfect for a visit to Nunhead Cemetery. Located only a short walk from where I live, this is one of the least known and visited "magnificent seven" Victorian cemeteries of London. It's a welcome oasis of quiet and woodland away from the bustle of the city, and its state of disrepair only adds to the charm. And since today's also my birthday, what better time to wander around whilst pondering my own mortality

Here are some more photos...

Zupi Magazine

noreply@blogger.com (Matt Lyon) — Mon, 19 Sep 2011 14:50:00 +0000

The Brazilian art magazine Zupi were kind enough to interview me the other month, and last week I finally received a copy of the issue

Here is the complete interview along with some photos of the article:

Matt, first of all: when did your interest in art begin?
I can’t remember a time when I wasn’t drawing or doodling. I don’t know what the impulse was, but I just wanted to make pictures

Many of your creations have this tender, childlike thing. So tell us, what kind of kid were you?
As a child, I was never into sport or running around like a crazed delinquent. I’d much rather sit and observe, happy in my own little world. Aside from drawing I was obsessed with Lego. I’d spend hours creating buildings and towns, something that’s definitely reflected in my ongoing series of ‘house’ designs

Your creations have this magic aesthetics. Is that the way you see the world? Do you consider yourself an optimistic person?
My childhood was centred on creating opportunities of fantasy, be it in making art, building Lego, reading a book, looking at pictures, etc. I still see the imagery in my work as a product of imagination, but more as a means of escapism. I’ve been told by close friends that my work reflects my mood, though not in a way you’d perhaps expect. I’m not an optimistic person, and it’s for this reason that I make art. It’s a panacea and device to help me work things out

Your compositions are full of detail. How long does it take to create a piece?
It’s difficult to say really, though I’m a stickler for detail and getting everything right, especially in terms of colour. From start to finish, an average piece of work could take perhaps 6-8 hours. That’s for something that starts as a drawing, is then redrawn in Illustrator as line work, coloured and then edited in Photoshop. More complex pieces will span a couple of days’ work or a week, whereas something that is worked on entirely in Photoshop will take a lot less time

Would you say the magic aesthetics of your art is more naive, like children world, or more psychedelic, coming straight from the crazy 70s?
Not to sit on the fence, but I’d say a bit of both. The imagery often stems from doodling, so that’s close to a child-like inspiration. But the process of work, of letting things find their own form, creating patterns, sequencing, recognising common elements, etc is more akin to a psychotropic journey. This is the all-encompassing purpose and function of my creativity, with the artwork forming the evidence and by-product of these actions

Colour is a key element in your art. Is there a colour that you avoid, or that you think doesn't match your style?
Colour is my drug. I’m fascinated by its power and potential, and I love playing around with combinations and unlikely palettes to see if I can get them to work together. I try and use all colours, but looking at past work I clearly favour warm palettes and certain hues or tones

You illustrate various cities around the world. What are your favourite destinations? Which place that you have never been to would you like to visit?
I’ve visited areas of Eastern Europe and the Far East, though by far my favourite destination is Japan. I’ve been there twice and I’m looking forward to returning again soon. I’ve not yet visited the USA, even though last September I was due to fly out to San Francisco to attend the launch of a project I’d worked on for Microsoft. I got as far as the airport but had to cancel just before leaving due to ill health. I’d love to visit Russia at some point too – I’m fascinated by their rich culture, heritage and architecture, and I’m sure the vodka is the finest in the world!

Do you prefer to create by hand or via computer?
All of my work starts from a drawing that’s then digitally developed, but I’d really like to get back to more handmade processes. I studied Fine Art, so all of my initial education and training centred on painting and printmaking. The tactile process and physical outcome, other than a digital print, is a lot more rewarding. Of course handmade work can sometimes be more time consuming, and the space of a studio would be essential for me make a mess. It’s something I’d like to consider for the future

Have you ever explored street art?
I’ve never been involved with street art, but I do find some of it quite interesting. However, as with all art forms and disciplines, there’s a lot of work that I don’t really like. What’s worse is that I feel angry at times that poor work remains imposed into view by the nature of its public setting. Such work that most riles me are those that are badly crafted, generic or unresolved. I can choose not to see, hear or read equivalent work in all other creative genres, but with bad street art it’s unavoidable to see and drags down the reputation and respect of those artists doing things that are truly innovative

You seem to like details; so tell us a curious detail of your life
I suddenly feel like I’m playing truth or dare! Is this a time for confessions?! I’m quite a boring person so have few wild and wonderful secrets. Having said that, I was taught music at junior school by Liz Hurley’s mum. I’m afraid that’s as close as I get to celebrity

Your art remind us of the amount of information in which we are submerged today. What is the beauty, in your opinion, about the chaos, the confusion, the excess?
I’m a great believer in the idea that everything has the potential of reflecting beauty. This is my remaining sense of optimism because much of what I see is far removed from anything I feel remotely connected to. The past few years of global economic meltdown and more recent natural disasters seem to reflect a sense of ‘what goes around comes around’. Life is brief, and for the majority of people in the world it’s pretty shit too. However, even the worst situations could be seen as distorted beauty; beauty as a potential and origin that defiantly underlies everything, however bad on the surface it may seem. If I can’t believe this, things could seem pretty hopeless

I know it's hard, but if you could resume your art into one word that would be...?
Journey

Royal Norfolk Beans

noreply@blogger.com (Matt Lyon) — Fri, 02 Sep 2011 18:35:00 +0000

I like this food label. The beans were quite tasty too

Self Portrait

noreply@blogger.com (Matt Lyon) — Wed, 31 Aug 2011 21:45:00 +0000

Just completed a few moments ago - a self portrait doodle
I haven't done one of these in a very long while

Happy Extreme!

noreply@blogger.com (Matt Lyon) — Mon, 29 Aug 2011 20:11:00 +0000

I've just found this flexi disc whilst rummaging through a drawer. It's a Japanese DIY release from perhaps 1988 or thereabouts. Aside from The Rain, the other bands are all Japanese, though in true homage to the UK twee indie scene of the time, all of their lyrics are sung in English. I loved flexi discs during the 80s, which along with DIY cassette albums were a great accompaniment to the music zine scene of the time

Useless fact > In the evenings, The Rain used my tutor room at secondary school as a rehearsal space

Takashi Murakami Exhibition

noreply@blogger.com (Matt Lyon) — Thu, 30 Jun 2011 22:36:00 +0000

Takashi Murakami
Gagosian Gallery, London
June 27 - August 5, 2011

I made a visit to the Murakami exhibition this afternoon. There's only one room of work, and I felt slightly intimated by the 5+ attendants resembling CIA / Men In Black agents. Even so, there were a couple of highlights, including a silver vagina entitled Miss Clam and its partner sculpture Mr Big Mushroom - a polished gold penis. Both were huge and sported cute smiley faces placed on their erogenous zones. Behind these were two paintings reflecting Japanese Shunga that were equally enticing / explicit

Sadly there doesn't seem to be an online reference to these works or the majority of others on display. I guess that the heavy security presence has put pay to casual visitors photographing the show. However, the pay-off to this was a bonus gift - a free Murakami papercraft kit of one of the show's exhibits (pictured)

For more information on the exhibition, click HERE

Scans of the papercraft after the jump...

Self Portrait

noreply@blogger.com (Matt Lyon) — Sun, 19 Jun 2011 01:05:00 +0000

Oil painting from when I was 17
At the time, I was clearly loving the work of Pierre Bonnard

Royal Wedding, 1981

noreply@blogger.com (Matt Lyon) — Fri, 29 Apr 2011 12:53:00 +0000

My Royal Wedding souvenir from 1981...
Nice headed paper and fountain pen detail

Springtime

noreply@blogger.com (Matt Lyon) — Fri, 22 Apr 2011 21:08:00 +0000

A couple of weeks ago I had the pleasure of some time out from London. Here are a handful of photos from a leisurely walk in Alresford, Hampshire. Lovely spring weather and nature in bloom made for a perfect afternoon...

Oxford Street

noreply@blogger.com (Matt Lyon) — Tue, 12 Apr 2011 22:05:00 +0000

Selfridges on Oxford Street, London (4th March, 1992)

This was taken at my halls of residence, where I stayed for 2 years while studying at UCL. The Mayfair address was always a bonus, though sadly the entire block has now been demolished

Favourite Music Releases of 2010

noreply@blogger.com (Matt Lyon) — Tue, 21 Dec 2010 23:49:00 +0000

It's been an interesting year for music. I've had time to recollect and rediscover a lot of things that have inspired the continued 'revival' of past highlights. This nostalgia is always easy and comfortable, heard in the echoes of early 90s rave or classic drum n bass, or the waves of buzzing guitars and psychedelic fuzz familiar to shoegaze and their late 80s peers. These sounds have allowed me to discover new things, which is always a good thing. One foot in the past and the other in the future...

And so to business. In no particular order, these are my choice cuts of the past year

Vex'd - Cloud Seed

Coming 5 years after their seminal Degenerate album of 1995, Vex'd prove that they remain one of the true pioneers of dubstep. This is raw, dark and penetrating music from the masters of the genre

Various - Scientist Launches Dubstep Into Outer Space

Continuing with the dubstep theme, this is my favourite compilation of the year. At last, the mighty dub producer Scientist brings the whole genre full circle. Two CDs of quality tracks - the first of dubstep originals and the second of dub versions from the man himself. This is a match made in heaven (despite the awful cover art)

Venetian Snares - My So-Called Life

The prolific Aaron Funk launches a new label, with its first release being his latest album. As always, mind-blowing and playful sequencing are the order of the day, creating yet another inimitable Venetian Snares release. And before moving on, the second label release debut of Speed Dealer Moms, Aaron's collaboration with guitarist John Frusciante of the Red Hot Chili Peppers, is another worthy mention of the year

The Irrepressibles - Mirror Mirror

I stumbled upon this album by chance after watching the fantastic video by Pag entitled The Lady Is Dead. Comparisons with Antony And The Johnsons aside, this is a band I'd love to see live. The final 3 tracks on the album, comprising a single ensemble, are the most affecting I've heard all year

Danger Mouse And Sparklehorse - Dark Night Of The Soul

Any project involving David Lynch always warrants attention. I first came across Lynch's photos related to the album, and given its scope and collaboration it was almost a given that it was going to be something special

Autechre - Oversteps | Autechre - Move Of Ten

No list of the year would be complete without Autechre, and this year they treated us to two major releases. Nothing can touch Rob Brown and Sean Booth in terms of their music, both technically accomplished and far removed from sounding like anyone else. And let's not forget March's incredible 12-hour radio broadcast to herald the launch of Oversteps - without a doubt, the music mix of the year

Macc & dgoHn - Some Shit Saaink

Originally released in 2009, Rephlex put this out this year so it still makes the cut. This is the sound of drum 'n' bass that I love, harking back to a celebration of exciting breakbeats with a current edge and contemporary sound. One of many brilliant drum 'n' bass releases of the past couple of years that are re-energising the genre

Seefeel - Faults

After an absence of nearly 14 years, Seefeel return with a stunning EP of beautiful ambient melody and bass. New members to the group, including ex-Boredoms drummer E-Da, make for an exciting potential for the future. And with a new album due for release in February 2011, the next 12 months will hopefully cement a welcome renaissance for them

Balam Acab - See Birds

The mysterious Balam Acab has only one entry on Discogs - this EP = one of my favourites of the year. Aside from a couple of remixes I've managed to track down, I know little about Alec Koone and his music. This release opened the gateway to my discovery of the strangely elusive genre of witch house / drag, and I'm still undecided whether this fits into it. Whatever the case, this is beautiful and haunting music

Forest Swords - Rattling Cage | Forest Swords - Dagger Paths EP

Along with Balam Acab and the likes of SALEM and oOoOO came my discovery of Forest Swords. Both of this year's releases are recommended, and as with the best of Matthew Barnes' contemporaries, offer a reinvention of shoegaze for current times

The Advisory Circle - Mind How You Go (Revised Edition)

This is a token entry to mark my discovery of the Ghost Box label. It's been a treat to listen to their catalogue of music that clearly expresses hauntology in an audible form. Difficult to describe, this is music that is inherently British and refers to sounds of past decades, blurring all boundaries of what could be perceived as either nostalgic or retro. Quality design and artwork from the label's co-founder Julian House too

Scuba - Triangulation

I've left one of my favourites from this year to last. Aside from being a wonderful album (complete with an additional CD of 'intrepretations' track remixes), this release serves to represent the many other artists that I've continued to love this year. These include the likes of FaltyDL, Ital Tek, Boxcutter etc. Post-dubstep feels an inadequate term to pigeon-hole their sound, but that'll serve for now in describing what continues to feel both fresh and new

Recommended Super Famicom Games

noreply@blogger.com (Matt Lyon) — Sun, 21 Nov 2010 15:33:00 +0000

A list I compiled about 10 years ago of recommended Super Famicom games:

ACTRAISER 1 / 2 (Enix) - Classic god-sim and action game. The sequel is a straightforward action game with nice visuals and sound, though isn’t as good

AKUMAJO DRACULA (Konami) - Essential DRACULA game, only bettered by AKUMAJO DRACULA X on the PSone

ASSAULT SUITS VALKEN (NCS Masiya) - Fantastic and imaginative mecha shooter. The battle to stop the asteroid fall to Earth is a memorable moment. Known in the West as CYBERNATOR, without the manga inserts

AXELAY (Konami) - Beautiful shooter. Sadly the mixtures of play styles don’t gel. The side-scrolling levels are the best

BAHAMUT LAGOON (Square) - JAP-only strategy RPG with beautiful presentation

BATMAN RETURNS (Konami) - The best single player punch ‘n’ scroller on the SFC

BATTLE PINBALL (Banpresto) - The best SFC pinball game, each table hosted by Banpresto’s SD characters. 2D overhead view

BIKE DAISUKI: HASHIRIYA DAMASHII (NCS Masiya) - A rip-off of SUPER MARIO KART that actually plays okay. Not in the same class though

BIKER MICE FROM MARS (Konami) - Fab isometric racer. Very fun, despite the TV connection

BS F-ZERO 2 GRAND PRIX (Nintendo) - Updated vehicle visuals and a whole new league of tracks. BS-X Satellaview release

BS LEGEND OF ZELDA: SEKIBAN (Nintendo) - Another BS-X Satellaview game, a SFC conversion of the overhead FC RPG

BS GOLF DAISUKI! O.B. CLUB (NCS Masiya) - Shelved NCS game gets a BS-X release. Isometric golf, crazy golf style

CHOHMAKAIMURA (Capcom) - SFC sequel, aka SUPER GHOULS ‘N’ GHOSTS. Challenging and playable

CHOHMAKAITAISEN DORABOCHAN (Naxat) - Red’s brilliant Dracula Kid action RPG, aka THE TWISTED TALES OF SPIKE McFANG

CHRONO TRIGGER (Square) - Forget CHRONO CROSS, this is another RPG gem from the masters of the genre

CONTRA SPIRITS (Konami) - Feel the pulse! Fast-paced and imaginative action shooter. The hover-bike level that ends leaping between sky missiles is an all-time memorable SFC moment! Also released as CONTRA 3: THE ALIEN WARS and SUPER PROBOTECTOR. Occasional slowdown doesn’t spoil the fun

COSMO GANG: THE VIDEO (Namco) - A cute update of Namco’s GALAXIAN. Simple and fun

COTTON 100%: MARCHEN ADVENTURE (Datam Polystar) - Side-scrolling shooter with gorgeous visuals (though occasional slowdown)

DOKSUN! GANSEKI BATTLE (I'Max) - One of the best SFC puzzlers. A blatant rip-off of COLUMNS, but better

DOLUCKY NO KUSAYAKYU (Imagineer Zoom) - A playable and fair baseball game starring Zoom’s Dolucky and his furry chums

DO-RE-MI FANTASY MILON NO DOKI DOKI DAIBOUKEN (Hudson Soft) - Sequel to the FC game MILON’S SECRET CASTLE, this is a beautiful and cute scrolling action platformer. Catch foes in bubbles, bright colours - lovely!

EXHAUST HEAT 2: F1 DRIVER HENO MICHI (Seta) - Utilising Seta’s own DSP chip, this game is the only contender to compliment F-ZERO. Fast! (Aka FI RACE OF CHAMPIONS 2 in the West)

FIGHTER’S HISTORY / FIGHTER’S HISTORY: MIZOGUCHI KIKI IPPATSU!! (Data East) - After Capcom’s SF series of releases, these two coin-op conversions make fine one-on-one beat ‘em up alternatives

FINAL FANTASY 4 / 5 / 6 (US FF 2 / 3) (Square) - The pinnacle of the FF series. Complex characters, characters and gameplay, culminating in the yet to be bettered FF6 (aka FF3 in the US)

FINAL FIGHT / FINAL FIGHT GUY (Capcom) - Released in 2 versions, one with Haggar and Cody, the other with Haggar and Guy, this is included as one the first SFC releases that cemented the console as being a world beater

FINAL FIGHT 2 (Capcom) - Underrated sequel. Lovely Capcom references and some wonderful visuals

FLYING HERO BUGYURU NO DAIBOUKEN (Sofel) - Minor cute up-screen shooter. Big sprites and plenty of nice moments

FRONT MISSION (Square) - The first and best in the series. Beautiful visuals and addictive turn-based strategy gameplay. JAP-only, though many Western gamers find it easy to play thanks to the English menu system

FUSHIGI NO DAIBOUKEN 2: FURAI NO SIREN (Chun Soft) - Pseudo-sequel to TORNECO NO DAIBOUKEN (related to the DRAGON QUEST SERIES), this 32Mbit gem is a complex action-based maze RPG

F-ZERO (Nintendo) - No home game had ever looked like this before the SFC. Still as playable and impressive today

GANBARE DAIKU NO GENSAN (Irem) - Better known as HAMMERIN’ HARRY inspired by the coin-op, this is perhaps even better. Big sprites and old-school action with a distinct PC-E look and feel to it

GANBARE GOEMON 1 / 2 / 3 / 4* (Konami) - The SFC Goemon series has never been bettered. The first is arguably the best, the 2nd is strictly action-based and is well remmended, the third is a mixture of action and RPG, while the fourth returns to pure action though is challenging to Western gamers. Classics. Only the first game made it West as THE LEGEND OF THE MYSTICAL NINJA

GO GO ACKMAN 1 / 2 / 3 (Banpresto) - Side-scrolling action platformers starring the characters created by Akira Toriyama of Dragonball Z fame. They’re all excellent

GOURMET SENTAI BARAYAROU (Virgin) - The best all-round punch ‘n’ scroller on the SFC. 1-2 player (even with occasional CPU assistance in 1-player), and very bizarre!

GUNDAM W GUNDAMWING: ENDLESS DUEL (Bandai) - An impressive one-on-one beat ‘em up borrowing from SF and X-MEN: COTA. Solid control and impressive visuals, all with a distinctly ‘Natsume’ flavour of look

HAGANE (Hudson Soft) - Another gem from Red, a side-scrolling mecha-ninja action game. Lovely style, dark visuals and challenging gameplay

HANSEI ZARU JIRO KUN NO DAIBOUKEN (Natsume) - Known as SPANKY’S QUEST in the West, a minor release from the masterful SFC developers Natsume. Old-school platform puzzle / action game reminiscent of Taito coin-ops of the late 80s

HARMELUN NO VIOLIN HIKIO (Enix) - Side-scrolling action / platform game. Control a violinist who attacks by playing music. A partner follows along, and throughout the game abilities can be collected to change her into animals to assist progress. Subtle and enjoyable

HEBEREKE NO POPUN (Sunsoft) - Simple though addictive puzzler that perhaps relies too much on luck. Crazy combos and intense long rounds soon become the standard. Known elsewhere as HEBEREKE’S POPOON

HOSHI NO KIRBY 3 (Nintendo) - A Kirby platform game with an in-cart SA-1 chip. Say no more

HOSHI NO KIRBY SUPER DELUXE (Nintendo) - More Kirby action, though split into distinct themed areas. Known elsewhere as KIRBY’S FUN PAK

J. LEAGUE EXCITE STAGE `94 / ’95 / ‘96 (Epoch) - The only competition to Konami’s JIKKYOU WORLD SOCCER series. Classy visuals and great gameplay, the first came to the West as CAPCOM’S SOCCER SHOOTOUT, cut from 16Mbit to 12Mbit without the Barcode Battler options to improve stats to your players!

JAPAN GT CHAMPIONSHIP: HYPER BATTLE GAME (Kaneko) - Coin-op style, brash racer with an overhead-cum-isometric viewpoint. Loud sound and tough gameplay

JIKKYOU POWERFUL PUROYAKYU (Konami) - This baseball series ran to 6 games on the SFC alone. Its cute styling belies the strictly complex and tight gameplay. Great commentary

JIKKYOU PRO WRESTLING 96 (Konami) - A little known wrestling game, with great visuals, sound (commentary again) and many great characters

JIKKYOU WORLD SOCCER 2: FIGHTING ELEVEN (Konami) - The sequel to JWS: PERFECT ELEVEN (a series released as INTERNATIONAL SUPERSTAR SOCCER in the West). One of the greatest soccer games ever created. Amazing commentary too

KID KLOWN IN CRAZY CHASE (Kemco) - A minor little game, starring a clown that must negotiate an isometic pathway avoiding all manner of traps to collect items and reach a bomb before it explodes. Very amusing, if a touch repetitive

KIKIKAIKAI: NAZO NO KURO MANTO (Natsume) - Highly playable version of the Taito coin-op. Sprite-flicker and slowdown spoils things a little, but it’s a game I’m still fond of. Released in the West as POCKY & ROCKY

KINGYO CHUUIHO!! TOBIDASE! GAME GAKUEN (Jaleco) - A mini-game collection starring SD school kids and a cow! Great party game, the best of its type on the SFC

KIRBY BOWL (Nintendo) - Known outside Japan as KIRBY’S DREAM COURSE, this is a fun crazy golf game starring Kirby as the ball. A new version without Kirby and new courses was released on the BS-X as SPECIAL TEE SHOT

MACROSS: SCRAMBLED VALKYRIE (Zamuse) - The best side-scrolling shooter on the SFC, and one of the best ever created. Never released in the West (why?!), this is hardcore shoot ‘em up heaven. No wonder it now retails for between £150-£200!

MAGICAL DROP 1 / 2 (Data East) - Another favourite puzzle series that debuted on the Neo Geo. Two fantastic versions that rank as one of the most hectic puzzle games ever invented

MAGICAL POP'N (Pack-In-Video) - Beautiful side-scrolling action platformer, little known and very reminiscent of games that graced the PC-E

MARVELOUS (Nintendo) - An RPG with great character and invention with a cart that utilised the SA-1 chip

MOKOKOCHAN NO WONDER KITCHEN (Ajinomoto) - The award for the most left-field SFC release. Only available via a promotion from Ajinomoto mayonnaise, this is a game where you must unlock areas and mini games to collect ingredients to cook various meals (recipes that of course use Ajinomoto mayonnaise!). What’s interesting about this game is that it was developed by NCL. It shows - very magical

MOTHER 2 (Nintendo) - Known elsewhere as EARTHBOUND, this RPG is wild in its simple child-like style and fantastic B-Movie storyline

MR. DO! (Imagineer) - The coin-op classic comes home in perfect style. This plays just as well as it always used to

NBA JIKKYOU BASKETBALL: WINNING DUNK (Konami) - While the West enjoyed NBA JAM and the like, I preferred Konami’s more coin-op approach inspired by their coin-op WINNING DUNK. Known elsewhere as NBA GIVE ‘N GO

PANEPON: ACTION PUZZLE GAME (Nintendo) - The presentation and slickness of this addictive puzzler is stunning and magical. Released in the West with new characters and visuals under the title TETRIS ATTACK (starring Yossy), this in turn was re-released on the BS-X Satellaview as YOSSY NO PANEPON

PARODIUS DA! SHINWA KARA OWARAI HE / GOKUKYOU PARODIUS / JIKKYOU OSHABERI PARODIUS (Konami) - Although not perfect, these three PARODIUS games are worth a mention. The third cart contained a data compression chip to contain its extensive and amusing commentary. Surprisingly, only the first game received a Western release in Europe as PARODIUS: NON-SENSE FANTASY

PILOTWINGS (Nintendo) - Who’d have guessed that flight training was so much fun?! The first and best version, still a joy to play

POP 'N TWINBEE (Konami) - Classic cute up-screen shooter, the best of its type on the SFC. Simply gorgeous visuals and fantastic style of play and levels

POPFUL MAIL (Falcom) - With the look and feel of the PC-E game, this minor side-scrolling action / adventure is old-school entertainment

RENDERING RANGER R2 (Virgin) - Developed by Rainbow Arts though only released in Japan, this is the third TURRICAN game on the SFC. Technically astounding - the game opens with some very dull stages, but as soon as the side-scrolling shoot ‘em up stages kick in, the action hots up. Incredible visuals in places, almost 32-bit in quality

ROMANCING SA.GA 1 / 2 / 3 (Square) - Never released in the West, a serious and more complex RPG series than FINAL FANTASY. Will we ever see RPGs of this calibre ever again?

RUDORA NO HIHOU (Square) - Squaresoft’s last cart release is again a serious RPG with slick design, characters and story. It goes without saying that the presentation and visuals are top drawer

RUSHING BEAT RAN: FUKUSEI TOSHI (Jaleco) - The second RUSHING BEAT game (Jaleco’s ‘tribute’ to the FINAL FIGHT series). Nice colours and coin-op style visuals. Known in the West as BRAWL BROTHERS

RUSHING BEAT SYURA (Jaleco) - The third RUSHING BEAT game, is actually quite good! Released in the West under the new (terrible) name THE PEACE KEEPERS

SD BATTLE RACER (Banpresto) - Another SMK clone, this time with those Banpresto SD characters. Like NCS Masiya’s effort, not in the SMK league, but nevertheless still fun

SEIKEN DENSETSU 2 / 3 (Square) - SD2 was known as SECRET OF MANA, and performed well in the West. I was only fond of its simultaneous 3-player gameplay, but the JAP-only sequel was incredible, perhaps the best turn-based-cum-action RPG ever created. An amazing ROM patch is available for SD3 to convert all the text into English

SEPTENTRION (Human) - Inventive and touching action game inspired by the classic 70s disaster movie THE POSEIDEN ADVENTURE. The game is tough, allowing only a strict time limit to escape. Mode 7 rotation comes into its own to describe the unstable and sinking liner

SIM CITY (Nintendo) - NCL took the dry and serious PC game and added their own touch, transforming this strategy game into a compulsive obsession. Difficult to reach the goal of Megapolis status, it’s also difficult to put down!

SPARKSTER (Konami) - A sequel to ROCKET KNIGHT ADVENTURES on the MD, this side-scrolling action game is pacey though perhaps not tight enough in its gameplay. Still impressive though

STREET FIGHTER 2 TURBO: HYPER FIGHTING (Capcom) - Okay, so the visuals aren’t coin-op perfect, but it’s the game that counts. And this is a perfect conversion of the original’s fast action and is the best one-on-one beat ‘em up on the SFC. The other SF games are worth a look too

SUPER ALESTE (Toho) - Developed by Compile, this is a brash and playable up-screen shooter making full use of the SFC’s capabilities and hardware. Slick and colourful, this is perhaps a little too OTT. Known in the US as SPACE MEGAFORCE

SUPER BOMBERMAN 1 / 2 / 3 / 4 / 5 (Hudson Soft) - Take your pick, some are better than others, but essentially they’re all classic games

SUPER BOMBERMAN: PANIC BOMBER WORLD (Hudson Soft) - A conversion of the coin-op, an enjoyable puzzle game that, of course, makes full use of bombs and explosions! The cart uses an SA-1 chip to keep the action going, even in 4-player

SUPER DONKEY KONG 1 / 2 / 3 (Nintendo) - Rare’s reinvention of Donkey Kong went down a storm (aka DONKEY KONG COUNTRY 1 / 2 / 3), with lush visuals and solid gameplay. Not up there with NCL’s own platform games, but still very impressive

SUPER DRAKKHEN (Kemco) - A minor SFC recommendation, a side-scrolling action RPG with good visuals and control. Alternative name - DRAGON VIEW

SUPER FAMILY GELÄNDE (Namco) - The Nintendo Power format allowed Namco to release this previously shelved game. A brilliant one-against-one downhill skiing game with some truly effective controls and rich gameplay

SUPER FAMILY TENNIS (Namco) - The best tennis game on the SFC. Highly amusing too, with all the insane court locations. Known in the West as SMASH TENNIS

SUPER FINAL MATCH TENNIS (Human) - The next-best SFC tennis game. More serious but just as playable. A sequel to the PC-E game

SUPER FIRE PRO WRESTLING X PREMIUM (Human) - Human’s long-running wrestling series has changed little since 8-bit days, but like SF, it has evolved into the best of its type. The SFC hosted 8 in the series, including one specifically starring all-female wrestlers. The last is the best, with over 100 fighters, all with unique moves and character. A ROM patch is available to convert all the text into English

SUPER MARIO COLLECTION (Nintendo) - A genius compilation of 4 FC Mario games, with updated visuals. Genuine classics. Released in the West as SUPER MARIO ALL-STARS, there was also released the even better SUPER MARIO ALL-STARS + SUPER MARIO WORLD all-in-one cart!

SUPER MARIO KART (Nintendo) - The best SFC racer and perhaps my favourite videogame of all time. The N64 sequel stood no chance in trying to better it, and failed abysmally. The same goes for the GBA version

SUPER MARIO RPG (Nintendo) - NCL and Squaresoft team up to create a dream development team, and a lovely RPG strictly for the younger gamer

SUPER MARIO WORLD (Nintendo) - Along with F-ZERO, the SFC launch game. One of the best platformers ever

SUPER NAXAT OPEN GOLF (Naxat) - An overhead golf game starring none other than Dorabotchan, aka Dracula Kid

SUPER NINJA KUN (Jaleco) - Cute and playable 1-2 player action platformer with a distinct JAP flavour

SUPER PUNCH-OUT!! (Nintendo) - The best boxing game on any format. A sequel to the FC and coin-op original, only officially released in the West, though recently available in Japan via the Nintendo Power download system

SUPER PUYO PUYO 1 / 2 / REMIX (Banpresto) - Classic puzzle series from the coin-op. One of my favourite puzzle games. The first game arrived in the US as KIRBY’S AVALANCHE and in Europe as KIRBY’S GHOST TRAP

SUPER TETRIS 2 & BOMBLISS (Bullet Proof Software) - Definitive SFC TETRIS, along with a variation based around exploding blocks

SUPER TETRIS 3 (Bullet Proof Software) - Solid TETRIS yet again, though with the added option of 4-player simultaneous games

SUTTE HAKKUN (Nintendo) - Old-school action puzzle game, with platforms and a jelly-like player-character. Definitely NCL. This game also received two BS-X releases

SYONEN ASHIBE (Takara) - Known as SYO THE SEAL, this simple side-scrolling platform game has the cutest central character ever seen - a baby white seal!

TAEKWON-DO (Human) - Serious one-on-one beat ‘em up that relies upon timing and restraint. Skillful

TAKAHASHI MEIJIN NO DAIBOUKEN 1 / 2 (Hudson Soft) - Inspired by WONDERBOY, the first game is simple action fun (with great music, though an ugly player-character). The sequel is an action game based around an adventure, with much puzzle-solving. Known in the West as SUPER ADVENTURE ISLAND 1 / 2

TEENAGE MUTANT NINJA TURTLES 4: TURTLES IN TIME (Konami) - Nice conversion of the coin-op

TENCHI SOUZOU (Enix) - The best strictly action-based RPG on the SFC. Known as TERRANIGMA in the West, developed by Quintet (famed for ACTRAISER, SOUL BLAZER, SLAPSTICK, GAIA GENSOUKI, etc.). Brill!

TETRIS BATTLE GAIDEN (Bullet Proof Software) - Cute TETRIS game that makes use of special attacks and the like

THE GREAT BATTLE 4 (Banpresto) - A tribute to Rockman games. Stylish platform action

THE IREM MAJOR TITLE (Irem) - Slick conversion of the coin-op, known in the US as THE IREM SKINS GAME

THE NINJA WARRIORS AGAIN (Taito) - Developed by Natsume, this single plane punch ‘n’ scroller is classy, with plenty of moves, tight control and beautiful visuals. Known in the West as THE NINJA WARRIORS

TINY TOON ADVENTURES (Konami) - Tough and varied action game, a definite classic game. Stunning. (Western name: TTA: BUSTER BUSTS LOOSE)

TINY TOON ADVENTURES: DOTABATA DAI UNDOUKAI (Konami) - A sports compilation / party game. Good to play with friends, aka TINY TOON ADVENTURES: WILD & WACKY SPORTS

TSUYOSHI SHIKKARISHINASAI TAISEN PAZURUDAMA (Konami) - An addictive and balanced puzzle game, with humorous characters and style

UMIHARAKAWASE (TNN) - A puzzle platformer where you must negotiate stages using the skills of a nifty hook-shot, inspired by the gameplay of BIONIC COMMANDO. Lovely control and physics, swinging, jumping, etc. Nice understated visuals too. Also on PSone

UNIRACERS (Nintendo) - A fun and fast racer, controlling unicycles and gaining speed by performing tricks. Inventive and rather good. Alternatively called UNIRALLY in Europe

WAGAN PARADISE (Namco) - The 3rd in the SFC series of games for younger children. The previous two had a more educational slant, though this is more a basic and colourful platformer

WILD GUNS (Natsume) - Another classic from Natsume. A fantastic 1-2 player target shoot ‘em up. Fast and frenetic, this game’s tough and demands split-second reactions. Great sci-fi Wild West settings - gunslingers and robots! As ever, slick visuals

WILLIAMS ARCADE'S GREATEST HITS (Williams Entertainment) - A top compilation of trend-setting retro coin-ops. I’ve mentioned this because of the inclusion of a favourite of mine - ROBOTRON 2084

XANDRA NO DAIBOUKEN (Namco) - Challenging side-scrolling action game starring a minor Namco mascot. A good range of moves and challenge; an oldy but goody. Known elsewhere as WHIRLO

YOSSY ISLAND (Nintendo) - Perhaps the best, if not the most beautiful 2D platform game ever. The cart’s SA-1 chip provides all manner of visual tricks - rotation, scaling, etc. A gem of a Mario game, with Yossy taking centre stage. Known in the West as YOSHI’S ISLAND: SUPER MARIO WORLD 2

ZELDA NO DENSETSU (Nintendo) - A memorable RPG, and the best Zelda game so far. Fantastic, imaginative and action-based, this opened the genre to a wider audience. Known in the West as LEGEND OF ZELDA 3: A LINK TO THE PAST

*The full titles of GANBARE GOEMON 1-4 are as follows:

GANBARE GOEMON: YUKI-HIME KYUSHUTSU EMAKI!
GANBARE GOEMON 2: KITERETSU SHOGUN MAGGINESU!
GANBARE GOEMON 3: SHISHI JUROKU HYOE NO KARAKURI MARYI KATAME!
GANBARE GOEMON: KIRA KIRA DOUCHUU - BOKU GO DANCER HI NATTA RIYUU!

Other games worth a look:

ALCAHEST (Square Soft)
ARAIGUMA RASCAL: RACCOON RASCAL (NCS Masiya)
ARKANIOD: DOH IT AGAIN (Taito)
BLOCK KUZUSHI (POW)
CHIBI MARUKO CHAN (Konami) 4-player head-to-head action, the precursor to the likes of POY POY
DORAEMON 4: NOBITA TO TUKI NO OKOKU (Epoch)
GAIA GENSOUKI (Enix) aka ILLUSION OF GAIA
GAROU DENSETSU SPECIAL (Takara) aka FATAL FURY SPECIAL
GHOST CHASER DENSEI (Banpresto)
HELLO! PAC-MAN (Namcot) aka PAC-MAN 2: THE NEW ADVENTURES (only because the original PAC-MAN and MS PAC-MAN are available as hidden games)
KARURAOU (Epic/Sony Records: SCEI) aka SKYBLAZER
KEY KUMA BUSTER (Kadokawa Digital Entertainment) aka THE JETSONS: INVASION OF THE PLANET PIRATES (with new visuals)
MICKEY NO MAGICAL ADVENTURE (Capcom) aka THE MAGICAL QUEST STARRING MICKEY MOUSE
MICKEY TO DONALD: MAGICAL ADVENTURE 3 (Capcom)
MICKEY TO MINNIE: MAGICAL ADVENTURE 2 (Capcom) aka THE GREAT CIRCUS MYSTERY STARRING MICKEY & MINNIE
MUSCLE BOMBER: THE BODY EXPLOSION (Capcom) aka SATURDAY NIGHT SLAM MASTERS
PRO YAKYU NETTOU PUZZLE STADIUM (Coconuts Japan) Also on PSone
PUZZLE BOBBLE (Taito) aka BUST-A-MOVE
ROCK & ROLL RACING (Interplay)
ROCKMAN & FORTE (Capcom)
SIDE POCKET (Data East)
SOUL BLAZER (Enix)
SUPER GENJIN 1 / 2 (Hudson Soft) aka SUPER BONK / SUPER B.C. KID (the sequel is JAP-only)
TATAKAE GENSHIJIN 2 (Data East) aka JOE & MAC 2: LOST IN THE TROPICS
TATAKAE GENSHIJIN 3: SYUYAKU HA YAPPARI JOE & MAC (Data East) aka JOE & MAC
UTYU RACE: ASTRO GO! GO! (Meldac)
WRECKING CREW '98 (Nintendo)

And that’s just for starters!

STARFOX / STARFOX 2 (Nintendo) in hindsight, YES!

Masquerade

noreply@blogger.com (Matt Lyon) — Sat, 06 Nov 2010 23:56:00 +0000

A collection of masks and faces from 2003

The Queen's Silver Jubilee

noreply@blogger.com (Matt Lyon) — Fri, 15 Oct 2010 13:30:00 +0000

The summer of 1977 was a memorable time... The Sex Pistols were in their element after 'God Save the Queen' was banned by the BBC, I went on holiday to the Isle Of Wight for the second year in a row (thankfully it wasn't as hot as 1976's heatwave), and Elizabeth II celebrated her 25th anniversary as Queen.

For much of the summer term at Infant School, most days were spent covering everything in red, white and blue, painting flags, hanging bunting, and learning all about our monarchy and the imminent celebrations. After a school tea party, I was chosen with another student in my class to accompany the mayor in planting a silver birch tree. Cue the click of Kodak cameras and polite applause. Other than that, my memory has formed its own version of events, based upon images from photos and memorabilia.

I've still got the ubiquitous commemoration mug and 'First Day Cover' stamp collection, though I wonder if the tree remains standing...

The Secret Of Kells

noreply@blogger.com (Matt Lyon) — Tue, 05 Oct 2010 08:20:00 +0000

The Secret Of Kells
Tomm Moore, 2009

I recently stumbled upon this animated feature and last night had the pleasure of finally watching it. From the stills that I'd seen, I was immediately drawn to the style and design of the film, making a refreshing change from the glut of 3D CGI animated films that have now become the norm of cinema releases. The story and setting were an additional draw to me too - Celtic mythology and the Book of Kells make a good starting point for anything rich in imagery and potential.

Created by Tomm Moore and his Irish animation studio Cartoon Saloon, the film is an Irish / French / Belgian production that was first released in these countries during February and March 2009. A year later, it was nominated for The Academy Award for Best Animated Feature, though sadly lost out to Pixar's Up. Set in 9th century Ireland, the story follows a young monk named Brendan from the Abbey of Kells as he learns the skills of manuscript illumination from Aidan of Iona. Against the wishes of his uncle, the Abbot Cellach, Brendan's quest becomes a race against time and imminent Viking invasion to continue the work of creating the legendary Book of Kells.

The design of the film is beautiful, echoing the pattern and decoration of Celtic illuminations, as well as the flat stylised character design and compartmentalised layouts. The depictions of the film's forest scenes are clearly inspired by the paintings of Gustav Klimt, and the animation throughout is clean and dynamic.

Although I watched this on DVD, over the next couple of months the film will be given select screenings at cinemas across the country. Click HERE for further details... It's well worth a watch!

The Secret Of Kells - Official US trailer:

Joie de Vivre - an artwork created in 90 minutes

noreply@blogger.com (Matt Lyon) — Tue, 03 Aug 2010 15:05:00 +0000

I was recently invited to create an artwork to be displayed in the corporate box of Diageo at Manchester United Football Club’s Old Trafford Stadium. The artwork will be auctioned off in a blind auction running throughout the football season, with proceeds going to the Manchester United Foundation (Partnered with children’s charities such as UNICEF) and Positive Futures (children’s charity)

The theme for the artwork was 'celebrating life, everyday, everywhere, responsibly', and could be expressed in any way using any medium. Along with the necessity of some subtle branding inspired by Diageo's drinks brands, the artwork had to be created from scratch in only 90 minutes (the duration of a football match). For inspiration I chose Smirnoff Vodka as the red and black colour scheme reflects the team colours of MUFC, and the Russian / Byzantine two-headed eagle has long been a favourite emblem of mine

One of the requirements of the project was to document the creative process, the record of which can be seen below. This was a really fun project to be part of, though I underestimated how intense the 90 minutes was going to be. Tackling the design and resolving creative problems within this time led to a few fevered moments, and by the end I felt pretty exhausted! It was all worth it though and I'm pretty happy with how it all turned out...

For a better look of the finished design, visit my Flickr

8 minutes

18 minutes

The countdown continues...

30 minutes

40 minutes

50 minutes

60 minutes

70 minutes

80 minutes

90 minutes... Finished!

Interview for theHub Magazine

noreply@blogger.com (Matt Lyon) — Wed, 21 Jul 2010 12:42:00 +0000

I recently completed an interview for theHub Magazine that you can find HERE. However, if you don't want to subscribe to the site to gain access, here's a copy of the full Q&A:

Hi Matt! Talk us through C86. What does it stand for?

Hello there! Contrary to popular belief, I didn’t name myself after an Epson printer. Back in the day when I was subbing to Threadless under various guises, I stumbled upon a new direction of style. I wanted to anonymously try it out as I wasn’t sure how it was going to be received by the regular community. Through little imagination I was listening to NME’s C86 compilation album at the time and hence I grabbed the name. To me it was just another pseudonym to work under that I’d probably drop within a few weeks, though as it turned out the new style formed the first steps of how I now work… And the name stuck!

You have many sources of inspiration and you also work in multiple media. How do you find equilibrium in what you do?

I don’t ever see it as juggling but rather a natural way of working. I like to have my cake and eat it, so to speak. I see so much that inspires me from the most unlikely of places, from music, film, photography, art history, design, etc. In the past, especially when comparing myself to others and how they work, at times I felt that perhaps I was going about things all wrong. The general consensus is that you should target a certain direction of work and stick to it. More recently I thought to myself – ‘why the hell should I?’ I get bored easily and like to have many things on the go, so if I can jump from one thing to another, to keep everything moving and fresh. Well that’s the plan at least…

How long does it take for you to complete a piece of work? Is it a complex process?

The complexity of the work determines how long a piece will take, but more often than not, for a digital design I’ll follow the same process. Everything starts with drawing, and for me I use a process of ‘freedrawing’ to create my initial designs. Armed with a sketchbook and pen, I commit to all lines on the page. I rarely pencil sketch or correct errors – I’m more focused upon seeing what happens, letting the design evolve by itself. For me, this is quite a focused process that I’ve become more confident and successful with over the years. (You can see me in action here: http://vimeo.com/c86/videos) From here, I scan in the drawings and then trace them by hand in Illustrator. No Wacom – just me, a mouse and a steady hand. I find this stage quite relaxing and undemanding as many of the decisions from the line-work have already been made. Once complete, I fill in the colours using a preliminary palette. Colour is so important to me – the range of possible hue and combinations is limitless and exciting. I often use photographs for inspiration and reference, or older pieces of work if I want to duplicate a certain palette. From Illustrator I move the design into Photoshop for the final stage of the process, that of colour editing and additional adjustments. Although the final stage, I can often spend as much time tweaking the design in Photoshop as that spent in Illustrator. The flexibility of working between the two applications is fantastic, as is Photoshop’s continued support of working with vector elements. On average, from initial drawing to final outcome as design might take about 2-3 days.

You’ve worked with exhibitors worldwide, from countries as distant as Italy, Sweden, Spain, UK, and even China. Does travel, language and location affect your practice?

I love travelling to new places, though it feels like something I’ve not done in a while. My most creative trips have been to Japan and China. Both countries are an inspiration in themselves, so I couldn’t help but feel their influence on my work. All the colour and patterns of the Far East, the architecture and other aspects fed into my drawing. Japan offered me the chance to play with new materials, brushes and an infinite supply of amazing pens, while in China I was introduced to different papers, along with concertina sketchbooks where I started creating panoramic drawings. At the moment a lot of my work is increasingly being inspired by Eastern European folk art and architecture – a visit to Mother Russia is long overdue!

What type of client do you particularly take on? Are you somewhat selective or do you accept all challenges?

Primarily I focus upon creating and developing my own work and as such rely upon clients being selective of choosing me for commissions. Thankfully, the media and creative industry feels increasingly receptive to exploring new directions and possibilities of work, and as such designers and illustrators can maintain more of an identity with their own output. In the past I’ve certainly taken on jobs for the sake of it, but nowadays I feel more in a position to pursue what’s more important to me as a graphic artist – personal development of my own skills and nurturing new directions of work

Is there a certain project or piece of work that you favour (or feel particularly proud about?)

I’m often trapped in the mindset that the process of creating and what I learn or discover at the time is more important than the outcome. This is good in terms of a personal appreciation of my work because once a piece is complete, I want to move on. Significant pieces of work are those that mark a turning point or new direction of ideas, as well those that kind of ‘fell together’ in the right order to turn out well. Technically, I’m really pleased about a recent design called ‘Steamship Ayanasu’, at a time when I was expanding my architectural designs of houses to encompass boats and airships. Some of my early typography experiments from last year, such as ‘Game Over’, marked a distinct shift in style that I later developed, while a piece such as ‘SUBterrian (Make A Wish)’ from 4-5 years ago still reflects a lot of the things I still play around with

Are there any other illustrators, animators or graphic designers you particularly admire?

There are too many to mention! I’m a big fan of Joshua Davis and Evgeny Kiselev with their pattern-based generative designs, and Matt W Moore never fails to inspire me either

What are you working on at the moment? Any future projects on your agenda?

I’ve just finished the line work on a pattern-heavy design that’s so far taken about 5 days to draw out in Illustrator. I’m taking a break from it for now to concentrate on developing some designs for screen prints that I’ll hopefully get produced very soon. Also, I’m feeling the urge to create some new t-shirt designs – something I haven’t done in a long while. These are always fun to do, and will hopefully inspire some enjoyable projects for the summer

Print Design Prep

noreply@blogger.com (Matt Lyon) — Mon, 14 Jun 2010 22:07:00 +0000

Today I created three 2-colour versions of some old designs in preparation for some screenprint business... Nice to be working again with a limited colour palette

James Dean

noreply@blogger.com (Matt Lyon) — Sun, 06 Jun 2010 22:45:00 +0000

Yellow Submarine Minute Sequence

noreply@blogger.com (Matt Lyon) — Sat, 15 May 2010 13:54:00 +0000

Yellow Submarine is one of my favourite animated films. Heinz Edelmann's art direction is so imaginative, with characters and imagery that at times are completely bonkers. One of many inspiring sequences from the film is this typographic countdown of sixty seconds that accompanies the song 'When I'm Sixty-Four'. Illustrative type meets the psychedelic era!

If you've not seen Yellow Submarine, it's essential viewing. Sadly, Disney have announced a CGI 3D remake of the film, to be directed by Robert Zemeckis and released in 2012.

For more information, check out IMDB

Edvard Munch

noreply@blogger.com (Matt Lyon) — Tue, 11 May 2010 14:40:00 +0000

Edvard Munch
Peter Watkins, 1974

I watched this film over the weekend - a biopic following the early years of Edvard Munch's development as a painter and increasingly isolated man. From what I can gather, the film was originally shot for television with a runtime of 211 minutes. I was originally going to watch the film over the course of a couple of sittings, but as it turned out, three and a half hours passed quicker than expected

Written and directed by Peter Watkins, this portrayal of an artist is unlike anything I've seen before in terms of a film depicting an artist's biography. Using Munch's personal diaries as reference for the screenplay, from the very start it's clear that Watkins is not only challenging the conventions of the genre, but of film making. Using a cast of unknown actors, the overriding style of the direction is like that of an early Ken Loach film, with it's voyeuristic 'fly-on-the-wall' camera work and gritty realism. What's more unusual is that the characters, especially Geir Westby who plays Munch, regularly acknowledge the camera to make eye contact with the viewer. Adding further to the naturalism, the film is filled with natural lighting and the cool colours of its Norwegian setting, often creating grainy and muted tones similar to some of Munch's paintings

The chronology of Munch's life in the film follows his formative years as a painter and printmaker from 1884 to 1894. What makes the film so fascinating is the way that significant moments in Munch's life are continuously repeated and played back as snapshots that are clearly moulding his psyche. These include family illness and death from tuberculosis, his obsessive and troubled encounters with women, and moments of emotional crisis. The film's audio is utilised in a very similar way by often layering dialogue with sound that is different to what is on-screen. The script is quite minimal and spoken in Norwegian, with Munch's isolation fittingly reflected in his lack of words. In addition to this, Watkins provides a commentary of important facts and references that form clear historical signposts throughout the film. Spoken in English, his voice sounds formal and objective, not unlike the voice of John Berger throughout Ways of Seeing

As a fan of Munch's work, this film gave me a rich insight into the context of his development, as well as his importance as an artist in the history of Modern Art. Despite his severe emotional problems and crippling isolation, I felt quite inspired by his determination of work in the face of such hostility and rejection.

For more information and reviews, check out IMDB