Man vs. Art

Man vs. Art Episode 65! Assorted Tales of Art and Stuff.

Raul Aguirre Jr. manvsart@manvsart.com (Raul Aguirre Jr.) — Mon, 16 Jan 2012 14:42:10 +0000

Today's show is a collection of assorted tales about art and stuff. First, I share the true story of a Jewel performance I attended at the Walt Disney Concert Hall in Los Angeles. In the second segment Minion Mike Garvey nominates the great Terry Gilliam for the Man vs. Art Pantheon of Awesomeness! In the third segment Minion Jim Richardson shares his thoughts on the 2011 CTN EXPO and on his quest to get hired by Disney. In the fourth segment I give some advice on things visual artists can do to sharpen their creativity.The Final segment is a bit I wrote called "Every Artist's Dream." It's a tongue in cheek look at what we all fantasize about when we're sitting at the coffee shop scribbling away in our sketchbooks!

Man vs. Art Episode 64! Creator Harry Partridge

Raul Aguirre Jr. manvsart@manvsart.com (Raul Aguirre Jr.) — Wed, 21 Dec 2011 17:48:02 +0000

Mad man Harry Partridge is a UK based animator, writer, voice actor and musician who started his one man show of making cartoons for the web at 16. Since then he has directed shorts for the BBC, Playboy and Nintendo among others and has racked up over 50 million views on his youtube channel alone.

Man vs. Art Episode 63! Conceptual Art and other forms of Bullshit.

Raul Aguirre Jr. manvsart@manvsart.com (Raul Aguirre Jr.) — Sat, 03 Dec 2011 02:37:17 +0000

This vague nature of the definition has made it possible for all types of twisted abominations to be labeled as art and sold at ridiculously inflated prices. What is art? While its boundaries are hard to encompass, Webster's defines art as: Skill acquired by experience, study, or observation. An occupation requiring knowledge or skill. The conscious use of skill and creative imagination especially in the production of aesthetic objects. As a result those who want all the perks of being an artist but don't want to do all of the work have taken a shortcut. Rather than dedicate themselves to enriching art they have chosen to be smart asses at art's expense. They become Conceptual and or Appropriation Artists.

Man vs. Art Episode 62! Minion Opinion Art Buffet.

Raul Aguirre Jr. manvsart@manvsart.com (Raul Aguirre Jr.) — Wed, 16 Nov 2011 06:38:59 +0000

Get your ART ON! Hola Minions. Today's podcast has a bunch of really cool things going on! So put down that weak little salad dish, grab that big honkin' plate and belly up to the Man vs. Art Buffet! Today I read some listener email and we induct Rod Serling into the Pantheon of Awesomeness. Steve Seivers and Dahveed the creators of the independent animated web series Supa Pirate Booty Hunt drop by to talk about their kickstarter campaign.

Man vs. Art Episode 61! Poetic License Renewal with Christopher Luke Trevilla

Raul Aguirre Jr. manvsart@manvsart.com (Raul Aguirre Jr.) — Wed, 02 Nov 2011 13:31:38 +0000

On today's show the subject is Poetry. These days the poetry has some lousy stigma attached to it. Most people think poetry is only for greeting cards and angsty teens who like to cut themselves. I happen to love poetry with a passion. A truly great poet can touch your soul, cram volumes of truth about the human experience into just a few lines, and make a you rethink your views of life. Let's see a Hallmark card do that. My guest today a very talented young poet named Christopher Luke Trevilla. Chris refers to himself as a " Stand-Up Philosopher". Chris said "As a Stand-Up Philosopher I coalesce the vapors of human experience into a viable and logical comprehension. You know, a bullshit artist!"

Man vs. Art Episode 60! 2011 Halloween Special with Geo Brawn IV

Raul Aguirre Jr. manvsart@manvsart.com (Raul Aguirre Jr.) — Mon, 24 Oct 2011 12:41:09 +0000

It's Halloween folks and you know what that means! It's time to bring in Indy Horror Comic Creator Geo Brawn IV to talk about what else? Monsters! Both Fictional and real!

Man vs. Art Episode 59! Krishna M. Sadasivam creator of the web comic PC Weenies.

Raul Aguirre Jr. manvsart@manvsart.com (Raul Aguirre Jr.) — Sat, 01 Oct 2011 14:44:15 +0000

On today's show I speak with Artist, Cartoonist, Illustrator, Tech Geek, Art and Animation Instructor Krishna M. Sadasivam creator of the web comic PC Weenies.

Man vs. Art Episode 58! Raging Raul!

Raul Aguirre Jr. manvsart@manvsart.com (Raul Aguirre Jr.) — Tue, 13 Sep 2011 16:11:14 +0000

In this episode I go off on an a couple of things that really make me mad. First, A certain talent network of creatives that gave me the runaround all summer. Second, People who want artists to work for free, or offer a "back-end deal". Third, I really lay into some jackass Flash Developer that thinks treating artists like crap is the way to go. I don't like seeing Artists being pushed around, or taken advantage of. It's a Pet Peeve of mine.

Man vs. Art Episode 57! Neil Segura and Ray Mendivil Creators of Forever Freshman

Raul Aguirre Jr. manvsart@manvsart.com (Raul Aguirre Jr.) — Thu, 01 Sep 2011 22:27:55 +0000

On Today's show I am joined by Independent Comic Creators Neil Segura and Ray Mendivil to discuss their comicbook Forever Freshman! We talk about writing, art technique, tacos, beer, and Metal Gear Solid and more!

Man vs. Art Episode 56! Intervention Con and webcomics with Onezumi Hartstein and James Harknell

Raul Aguirre Jr. manvsart@manvsart.com (Raul Aguirre Jr.) — Thu, 18 Aug 2011 11:53:36 +0000

On Today's show I spend an hour talking to Webcomic Diva Onezumi Hartstein and her husband/producer James Harknell. We talk about highlights from Intervention 2010 and what's in store for 2011. Enjoy the podcast! The goal of Intervention is to bring together different independent creators and fans to party, educate, and appreciate the opportunities the Internet gives to all of us. IT is similar to the Sci-Fi/Anime/Other fandom cons, but here the emphasis is on people who use the internet as the primary way to distribute their work and communicate with their friends.

Man vs. Art Episode 55! My First Solo Art Exhibition…The Aftermath.

Raul Aguirre Jr. manvsart@manvsart.com (Raul Aguirre Jr.) — Wed, 03 Aug 2011 12:38:58 +0000

Ladies’ Night A Solo Art Exhibition Featuring the Fine Artworks of Artist, Animator, Writer, and Director Raul Aguirre Jr. This was my first Solo Art Exhibit. To me this meant a lot. It was quite an experience! I loved every moment of it and had a total blast! The show went great! The party was awesome!

Man vs. Art Episode 54! Interview with 3 Time Emmy Award Winning Director of The Simpsons Mark Kirkland.

Raul Aguirre Jr. manvsart@manvsart.com (Raul Aguirre Jr.) — Wed, 20 Jul 2011 01:55:06 +0000

Interview with Mark Kirkland three time Emmy Award winning Director (The Simpsons). Multi Award winning Filmmaker, Writer/Director/ Antique movie camera collector and cinematographer.

Man vs. Art Episode 53! 2011 AM2 Anime Manga Music Con wrap up!

Raul Aguirre Jr. manvsart@manvsart.com (Raul Aguirre Jr.) — Sat, 09 Jul 2011 05:05:53 +0000

One Crazy Weekend in Anaheim! I spent Fourth of July weekend tabling in Artist's Alley at the 2011 AM2 Anime Manga Music Con! It's not my usual kind of crowd or event but I figured what the heck? Time to expand my horizons and meet new people! I'm sure glad I did! The Man vs. Art Crew! With the help of my wife "The Lovely and Vivacious Hortencia" and my nephew Jacob, I set up my table with original art, prints, my books, DVDs, buttons, and cards for sale. Plus I also took commissions that I would draw up on the spot. If you could think it up, I would draw it for you! A bunch of new minions signed up for the Man vs. Art subscription list and I got lots and lots of compliments on my stuff.As for how I did? Well I sold a few original sketches and did a couple of commissions! My Cowboy Bebop Faye Valentine sketch went withing the first hour! Below you can see my rough pencils and finished inked drawing.

Man vs. Art Episode 52! Listener Email and Voice mail Buffet

Raul Aguirre Jr. manvsart@manvsart.com (Raul Aguirre Jr.) — Sat, 18 Jun 2011 00:26:24 +0000

From around the age of six, I have had a passion for drawing the shapes of objects. From about the age of fifty I produced a number of designs, but nothing I did before the age of seventy was worthy of attention. At seventy-three, I finally apprehended something of the true quality of birds, animals, insects, fish and of the vital nature of grasses and trees. So, by the time I am 80, I will have made much progress, so that by ninety I will have penetrated to their essential nature. By one hundred, I will decidedly have attained a higher state, indefinable, and at one hundred and ten, each dot, each line shall surely possess a life of its own. May Heaven, that grants long life, give me the chance to prove that this is no lie. Hokusai (who lived to be 90) On today's show I put together a collection of emails and voice mails for a massive buffet of art talk. So Buckle your cartoon belts and let her rip!

Man vs. Art Episode 51! Creative problem solving with Picasso, Chaplin, and The Beatles.

Raul Aguirre Jr. manvsart@manvsart.com (Raul Aguirre Jr.) — Thu, 26 May 2011 23:59:59 +0000

Artistic genius across three different artistic disciplines. Picasso’s genius for painting; Chaplin’s genius for film making; and the Beatles’ genius for songs are fine examples of how artistic creativity can be used to approach complex problems. These guys all were masters of creating art that depicted universal experiences that could be appreciated by us all. They were spontaneous and intuitive in their approaches at first and then built discipline and persistence as their projects evolved. So to understand creativity , we must understand the character of the artist.

Man vs. Art Episode 50! Greatest Hits 50th Show Celebration.

Raul Aguirre Jr. manvsart@manvsart.com (Raul Aguirre Jr.) — Tue, 10 May 2011 21:59:43 +0000

Holy smokes! Has it been 50 episodes already?! I've had a blast producing the show. I've learned so much about art, artists, and about myself. Since day one, I decided to produce my show to a higher standard of quality than most others in terms of production value, editing, writing, music, comedy, and honesty in the content. The inherent difficulty and comedic irony of producing a show about Visual Arts in audio. Why on Earth would I choose to produce an audio podcast about visual art? What am I stupid?!

Man vs. Art Episode 49! Advice for Artists on Overcoming the Fear of Failure.

Raul Aguirre Jr. manvsart@manvsart.com (Raul Aguirre Jr.) — Mon, 25 Apr 2011 07:40:56 +0000

Ever notice that whenever you begin an new artistic project like a new book, painting, portfolio, short film, etc that the darned Fear of Failure Demon always seems to drop in to petrify you? You spend sleepless gut wrenching nights where all you can imagine is doom. You toss and turn with dark visions of both yourself and your art as objects of scorn, ridicule, or even worse objects of pity. So you put off trying for the thousandth time, and ditch your dreams. Ask the top painters, cartoonists, designers, illustrators, comic creators, animators, poets, writers, directors, and they will all claim that they are no different! They too have had to deal with the Fear of Failure Demon and have had their shares of crushing disappointment. I'd like to give a shout out to Krishna Sadashivam The creator of the killer web comic PC Weenies! He called in and left a voice mail question on the Man vs. Art Minion Hotline! He asks what animation studios are looking for in terms of Storyboard Artist Portfolios. Check out the podcast if you want to know what I had to say on that. Born in 1920 Isaac Asimov was a writer of some of the greatest classic Science Fiction stories of the last hundred years. Of his works The Foundation Series… The Galactic Empire series and his Robot series were major contributions to the world of sci-fi literature. And These are just a few among the 500 books that he wrote or edited in his lifetime. In particular Asimov’s Robot series generated 2 lasting concepts in science fiction including the invention of a robot’s ‘Positronic’ brain and the 3 laws of Robotics. Both concepts were featured in the movies ‘The Bicentennial Man’ and ‘I Robot’ which were loosely based on his characters. Lastly I'd like to present you with some samples of the 2D Traditional and some 3D digital Animation my students did from my History and Principles of Animation and Timing for Animation Classes at the Gnomon School of Visual effects in Hollywood California.

Man vs. Art Episode 48! Interview with Jenny Beck from Cartoonbrew.com!

Raul Aguirre Jr. manvsart@manvsart.com (Raul Aguirre Jr.) — Fri, 15 Apr 2011 20:50:27 +0000

Jerry Beck Cartoon Animation Super Curator on the Man vs. Art Podcast! Jerry Beck is an animation historian, cartoon producer and is the L.A Editor of the mind bogglingly cool animation blog http://www.cartoonbrew.com! He joined me for a little cartoon talk on Man vs. Art today and it's my pleasure to share it with you.

Man vs. Art Episode 47! The Vital Importance of Art Advocates Like Enrique Diaz.

Raul Aguirre Jr. manvsart@manvsart.com (Raul Aguirre Jr.) — Sun, 03 Apr 2011 06:35:23 +0000

I'm going to make a big sweeping generalization right now. I'm going to "paint with a broad brush" so to speak. It's tough being an Artist. Yup. It always has been I suppose. There's a bunch of crap we have to put up with! But you know which artists have it the worst I think? Little kid artists. Especially lower income little kids. In the hood there is no support for the arts. The kids have no access to supplies, equipment, training, mentors, books, or even a place to sit down and draw. Luckily for the young artists in El Monte California there is a guy like Enrique Diaz, a wonderful and generous man driven by a great passion for the arts!

Man vs. Art Episode 46! 7 Myths About Artists that have to go!

Raul Aguirre Jr. manvsart@manvsart.com (Raul Aguirre Jr.) — Tue, 22 Mar 2011 05:04:40 +0000

Today I want to rip apart and put to rest 7 awful myths and misconceptions about of art! These Myths are totally wrong and mess up the integrity and purpose of art. 1. Art means whatever people want it to mean. No way Jose! A professional artist, always has intention, and it’s his job to communicate that intent through mastering their craft and applying their skill in the form of hard work. 2. Art is all a matter of opinion and is subjective. Hello! Every kind of response to art is an opinion, so that’s not news. What the myth implies is that all opinions are equally valid. That is FALSE! Some opinions are better than others. Opinions that are based on better reasoning are much stronger than opinions based on bad or zero reasoning! Not all art is subjective. Some art is objectively good, and some art is objectively bad. The correct assessment depends on the evaluation of the criteria, not on the viewer's whims or tastes.

Man vs. Art Episode 45! For the Love of Drawing!

Raul Aguirre Jr. manvsart@manvsart.com (Raul Aguirre Jr.) — Sun, 13 Mar 2011 07:25:08 +0000

On today's episode of Man vs. Art I want to explore how the act of drawing has thoroughly shaped our lives. There was a time when the ability to draw was seen as the primary essential skill of any artist. But in the age of the cut and paste pixel and digital imagery many see drawing as an outdated activity. I want to challenge the modern prejudice that it's not cool to draw. That those who draw are sad Luddites and weird loners stuck in a dead past. Drawing is the most rewarding and essential artistic skill at work in the world today.

Man vs. Art Episode 44! Big Illustration Party Time Crossover! World’s Raddest!

Raul Aguirre Jr. manvsart@manvsart.com (Raul Aguirre Jr.) — Wed, 02 Mar 2011 14:44:58 +0000

World’s will collide and multiverses will be in crisis on today's podcast! Man vs. Art’s Raul Aguirre Jr. and Che join forces with Big Illustration Party Time’s Kevin Cross and Joshua Kemble to tear the art world a new one in an EPIC crossover event so rad we can hardly contain ourselves! The Art Podcast equivalent of Batman Teaming up with Superman in World’s Finest. Only this team up crossover is World’s Raddest!

Man vs. Art Episode 43! Interview with Comic Creator Mike White!

Raul Aguirre Jr. manvsart@manvsart.com (Raul Aguirre Jr.) — Thu, 17 Feb 2011 22:59:17 +0000

Minions! I present you Mike White, the creator of the hysterically charming comic Amity Blamity! Born and raised in Canada, Mike has always dreamed about writing & drawing stories about his characters. After 5years working in TV and making award winning music videos, he moved to California enamored by the promise of opportunity. He is now back to his first love & childhood dream: creating memorable stories and characters in the spirit Bone, Calvin & Hobbes, Bloom County, and the many influences/inspirations of his youth.

Man vs. Art Episode 42! Setting Artistic Goals and Finishing your Projects.

Raul Aguirre Jr. manvsart@manvsart.com (Raul Aguirre Jr.) — Sat, 29 Jan 2011 01:10:20 +0000

Today I want to talk about setting goals and finishing your projects, both client work and personal projects. Sometimes life gets in the way of our art and that’s just the way the charcoal crumbles kids. The last couple of months have been really busy for me. I have tons of projects going all at [..see full post.]

Man vs. Art Episode 41! Independent DIY Comic Artist Javier Hernandez

Raul Aguirre Jr. manvsart@manvsart.com (Raul Aguirre Jr.) — Wed, 19 Jan 2011 08:04:13 +0000

My guest on today's show loves to draw and write! He is Javier Hernandez, a DIY cartoonist, painter, and entrepreneur. He is the creator of such comics as EL MUERTO, MAN-SWAMP and WEAPON TEX-MEX, which he publishes under his own imprint, LOS COMEX.

Man vs. Art Episode 40! Animator and Author Nancy Beiman Interview

Raul Aguirre Jr. manvsart@manvsart.com (Raul Aguirre Jr.) — Sat, 01 Jan 2011 00:05:12 +0000

My guest today is the exceptionally talented Artist, Animator, Director, Professor, and Writer Nancy Beiman. Nancy Beiman hails from New Jersey, likes to travel and owns a cat named Gizmo! She wasn't the first woman to work at the Disney Studio. There were many women before her who worked on Disney films. But Nancy has earned the distinction of being the second woman to be credited on a Disney film. She has taught animation at Savannah College of Art and Design, and taught at Rochester Institute of Technology, School of Film & Animation until 2008. She now teaches at Sheridan Institute's Animation department in Canada. Nancy was offered a scholarship to be part of the inaugural class of the Character Animation program at CalArts straight out high school. Her classmates included John Lasseter, Jerry Rees, John Musker, Tim Burton, and Brad Bird. Nancy was the first woman to graduate from the CalArts Character Animation Program. After CalArts, She went to work at Jack Zander's Animation Parlour in New York. She has animated Bugs and Donald, Snoopy and Goofy, friends of Fievel Mouse and Mickey Mouse, and Don Martin cartoons! She worked with Chuck Jones, Bill Melendez, Gerhard Hahn, Steven Spielberg, Walt Disney Feature Animation, the Disney Channel, Disney television movies, and Warner Bros. Nancy Beiman entered an industry that was pretty much a boy's club. Her raw talent and hard work, combined with an appreciation of tradition, tenacity and courage in the face of adversity served her well.

Man vs. Art Episode 39! Writer, Artist, and Independent Animation Filmmaker Ken Mora

Raul Aguirre Jr. manvsart@manvsart.com (Raul Aguirre Jr.) — Mon, 20 Dec 2010 04:32:41 +0000

Hola Minions! In today's episode of Man vs. Art I had the pleasure of speaking with the talented Ken Mora. He's a screenwriter, artist, and independent animator who's determination, warped sense of humor, and resourcefulness have gotten him literary representation, an award winning CG animated short, and plenty of attention. But I'm getting ahead of myself. Let's begin at the beginning shall we? Ken Mora is one of life's late bloomers. Currently, Ken is adapting the Magnum Farce into a comic book for release at next year's Alternative Press Expo. He is also laying down voice tracks for the Magnum Farce feature, tightening up the script, and planning the animatic with expert help from yours truly, the Man vs. Art. Ken will be previewing the "YouTube" edit of his CG animated short Magnum Farce on Jan 22nd at the "We Don't Need No Stinkin' Badges" show at Geeks Comics in Whittier. For the latest, Ken invites you to check out his website http://www.magnumfarcemovie.com/

Man vs. Art Episode 38! Color Theory and Painting.

Raul Aguirre Jr. manvsart@manvsart.com (Raul Aguirre Jr.) — Wed, 08 Dec 2010 03:18:16 +0000

There is so much that can be said about Color Theory that it could fill the Library of Alexandria. It can be overwhelming, so for the Man vs. Art Intro to Color Theory, I'm going to give you the underwhelming Cliff's notes version. In 1666 the genius Sir Isaac Newton put together the first circular diagram of colors . Ever since then, artists and even scientists have studied and created numerous variations of this concept. Over the years much debate has been provoked due to the differences of opinion about the validity of one format over another. In my opinion, any color wheel which presents a logically arranged sequence of pure hues is valid.

Man vs. Art Episode 37! How to make your drawings more expressive.

Raul Aguirre Jr. manvsart@manvsart.com (Raul Aguirre Jr.) — Thu, 25 Nov 2010 05:38:29 +0000

Hola Minions! In today's show I give you a few helpful tips on making your drawings more expressive! A simple way to make your characters look more expressive is to pay attention to the eye direction. When you are doing a pin up of a cartoon character 9 out of 10 times you should have the character looking at us. It is much more powerful to have the figure make eye contact with the viewer. A lot of artists show their lack of confidence by having the character looking away. Not good! Unless the eye direction is dictated by the story in a panel or action you should have your cartoon making good eye contact with us.

Man vs. Art Episode 36! Pitching your stories and ideas.

Raul Aguirre Jr. manvsart@manvsart.com (Raul Aguirre Jr.) — Sun, 14 Nov 2010 07:52:48 +0000

Attention all Artists and Creators who want to hone their pitching skills! This podcast is especially for you! Today I talk about how to effectively simplify your pitches and get to the point of your story quickly and effectively. Project Jose! Jose Gonzalez is a faithful Minion and developing artist! The guy loves to draw and I have taken him under my wing to help him improve his drawing skills! I assigned him to draw a magician pulling a rabbit out of a hat and below is what Jose drew. I then took Jose's drawing and went over it with red to punch it up a little and help him make a better drawing out of it!

Man vs. Art Episode 35! 2010 Halloween Special with Geo Brawn IV!

Raul Aguirre Jr. manvsart@manvsart.com (Raul Aguirre Jr.) — Mon, 01 Nov 2010 04:08:52 +0000

Hola Minions! Today my guest is the Dark One, La Cosa Nosferatu, Geo Brawn IV creator of the sexy horror comic The Untold chronicles!We talk about Halloween, what it means to us, and we let you guys in on some horror movies that don't suck! Geo reveals that the trick to telling a good scary story is to get your audience nice and comfortable. You know? Get them at ease and then POW! Knock them dead with something horrific and cool! Keep the reader on his or her toes and then scare the hell out of them.

Man vs. Art Episode 34! Bill Plympton Idiots and Angels Interview

Raul Aguirre Jr. manvsart@manvsart.com (Raul Aguirre Jr.) — Wed, 27 Oct 2010 07:32:12 +0000

Hola Minions! My guest today on the Man vs. Art Podcast is a legendary animator whose signature technique and dazzling visuals have been tickling your animation cockles for over 25 years. "Your Face" which garnered a 1987 Oscar nomination for best animated short. "How to Kiss," "25 Ways to Quit Smoking", and most recently "The Guard Dog" He has also produced a string of awesome feature length animated films, " The Tune", "I Married a Strange Person", "Mutant Aliens", and " Hair High". But we're here to talk about his most recent project: THE MOVIE THE NEW YORK TIMES IS CALLING "RELENTLESS AND BRILLIANT"! “Idiots and Angels” is a dark comedy about a man’s battle for his soul. Of course I'm speaking of the King of Independent animation, the one and only Mr. Bill Plympton! Jim Lujan and I had a wonderful time talking to Bill Plympton. Sit back enjoy the podcast and get your butt to a screening of Bill's latest release Idiots and Angels.

Man vs. Art episode 33! Going ape over the 2010 APE!

Raul Aguirre Jr. manvsart@manvsart.com (Raul Aguirre Jr.) — Mon, 25 Oct 2010 13:45:35 +0000

Hola Minions! In today's podcast I share my experience last weekend as a first time exhibitor at the 2010 APE Alternative Press Expo in the city by the bay San Francisco California.Let me start off by saying the APE was an absolute blast! I got to meet dozens of fellow Indy Comic and cartoon creators and got to check out some of the most unique and kick ass creations I've ever seen. The entire vibe of the event was of pure creativity. It was electric man! You could feel the creative energy throughout the exhibit hall!

Man vs. Art episode 32! Indy Comic Book Creator Grasiela Rodriguez Plus Man vs. Art goes to the APE!

Raul Aguirre Jr. manvsart@manvsart.com (Raul Aguirre Jr.) — Thu, 14 Oct 2010 13:20:23 +0000

Grasiela Rodriguez just self published her first comic book Lunatic Fringe available at Indyplanet.com. Yours truly, the Man vs. Art shall be attending the 2010 APE this weekend! That's Right the alternative press expo in San Francisco California! I'll be sharing a table with Man Vs. Art Sub Commandante Segundo Kevin Cross! I'll be selling my just released DVD Intro to Animation! So take a stroll into my store and click the pic to order your swag! If you can't make it to the APE then show your support for the Man vs. Art podcast studio store here!

Man vs. Art episode 31! Animator Writer Director Tom Sito!

Raul Aguirre Jr. manvsart@manvsart.com (Raul Aguirre Jr.) — Sat, 25 Sep 2010 08:37:49 +0000

On today's podcast I have a nice long chat with Animation Great Tom Sito! He's an artist, animator, director writer, teacher and historian! He has more cartoon knowledge and experience in one fingernail than any of us have collectively!

Man vs. Art Episode 30! Unleash the Cartoonist within!

Raul Aguirre Jr. manvsart@manvsart.com (Raul Aguirre Jr.) — Wed, 08 Sep 2010 20:44:57 +0000

In today's podcast I talked about the differences between drawing for Cartoons and drawing for Illustrations. I also offered up a few little exercises for you Minions to help prime your pump when your creative juices are dry. There's nothing worse than having artist's block!

Man vs. Art Episode 29! Don Bluth Interview pt. 2 plus Webcomic Diva Onezumi Hartstein.

Raul Aguirre Jr. manvsart@manvsart.com (Raul Aguirre Jr.) — Mon, 23 Aug 2010 01:57:00 +0000

In part 2 of the interview, we get into the nitty gritty of 2D traditional animation. Don talks about the times he got to watch the Great Milt Kahl animate. Don also mentioned how Frank Thomas explained to him how to show weight in your characters when animating! For the second segment of the Podcast I had the pleasure of interviewing webcomic creator / illustrator Onezumi Hartstein and her partner in crime, web developer James Harknell. Onezumi (Oni for short) lives in New Jersey, loves Heavy Metal, and Disney World. She writes and draws the web comic Stupid and Insane Defenders Against Chaos.Oni is one of the most active contributors to and supporter of the webcomics scene:

Man vs. Art Minion Drawing Critique

Raul Aguirre Jr. manvsart@manvsart.com (Raul Aguirre Jr.) — Thu, 19 Aug 2010 03:10:49 +0000

Pimp my Drawing! Chris Wilson a Minion of the Man vs. Art Podcast sent in a drawing he did for me to critique. I like what Chris did. Real creepy dude! But I saw a few places where he could punch it up a little. So without destroying his original idea, I went with a [..see full post.]

Man vs. Art Episode 28! Animation Legend Don Bluth Interview Part 1

Raul Aguirre Jr. manvsart@manvsart.com (Raul Aguirre Jr.) — Sun, 15 Aug 2010 13:37:55 +0000

Recently I had the pleasure of speaking with the the great Don Bluth, one of animation's most respected figures and one of my greatest inspirations as a kid. We had a great time and hit it off really well. Since then, I have been eagerly anticipating the chance to share the interview with you Minions. Like many of you, I totally realize how extremely valuable of an opportunity it is to speak with my guest. We both joked and laughed and shared with each other our mutual respect and deep passion for Traditional 2D Animation.

Man vs. Art Episode 27! Giant Double Sized 1 Year Anniversary Special Podcast! Content vs. Form

Raul Aguirre Jr. manvsart@manvsart.com (Raul Aguirre Jr.) — Sun, 01 Aug 2010 08:45:36 +0000

Hola Minions! I'm happy to announce that this episode marks the one year anniversary of The Man vs. Art Blog and Podcast! So I decided to do something special for you guys and put together a Giant Sized Podcast! It's a two hour Man vs. Art extravaganza made up of purely new stuff! I was able to collect together a whole bunch of short visits with my past guests, friends of the show, and the 3 Prime Minions!

Man vs. Art Demo #4 How to draw The Incredible Hulk.

Raul Aguirre Jr. manvsart@manvsart.com (Raul Aguirre Jr.) — Thu, 22 Jul 2010 18:37:52 +0000

Minions! Last time I showed you how I draw a pretty pin up girl.This time I'm going the opposite direction and showing you how I draw a big ugly Incredible Hulk! I came a cross this old Disney Studios Employee Handbook from 1938! It's a brief outline of the Studio's principal departments and an explanation to artists of its employment policies! The drawings are all from production drawings!

Man vs. Art Episode 26! Art and Animation School Confidential.

Raul Aguirre Jr. manvsart@manvsart.com (Raul Aguirre Jr.) — Mon, 19 Jul 2010 06:25:02 +0000

My time at Rowland Animation School taught me the most valuable lessons of my life! It really has helped me along in my career as a professional animator and cartoonist! Although it was tough work I had a blast and got to make some very dear friends in the process!

Man Vs. Art Pin-up Girl Drawing Demo! Vampirella

Raul Aguirre Jr. manvsart@manvsart.com (Raul Aguirre Jr.) — Mon, 12 Jul 2010 10:22:38 +0000

In this 16 minute drawing demo I show you how to draw a pretty pinup girl using a wacom tablet and Autodesk Sketchbook Pro.

Man vs Art Episode 25! Candid Interview with Disney Filmation Animation Artist Dana Reemes Part 02.

Raul Aguirre Jr. manvsart@manvsart.com (Raul Aguirre Jr.) — Mon, 05 Jul 2010 07:25:30 +0000

Interview with Filmation Disney Animator Dana Reemes! Cartoons! Animation! We get into the mind of a veteran Artist. Drawing, Sketching and more!

Man vs. Art Episode 24! Candid Interview with Disney & Filmation Animation Artist Dana Reemes Part 1.

Raul Aguirre Jr. manvsart@manvsart.com (Raul Aguirre Jr.) — Wed, 23 Jun 2010 14:35:01 +0000

Today I am going to introduce to you a very special friend of mine from way back in my Disney days. His name is Dana Reemes and he is the cat's pajamas! I used to stay late at the studio every night and work on my own animation projects. You know me, I'm always trying to better myself. I figured I wasn't going to be at Disney forever and wanted to take full advantage of my time there. Dana worked nights as well and we became friends. Dana met Robert Crumb in 1967 in the flea bag Miramonte Hotel on Mission Street where Robert was staying at the time. Dana brought his sketchbook and Robert kindly went over it with him! Not only that, Crumb gave some sage advice as well as a Crowquill Penpoint! Believe it or not Dana still has it!

Man vs. Art Episode 23! The History of Animation According to Raul Part 2.

Raul Aguirre Jr. manvsart@manvsart.com (Raul Aguirre Jr.) — Wed, 09 Jun 2010 06:31:44 +0000

Well I learned that there is no free lunch in Animation. The first hundred years of modern animation was no picnic! Especially for the Artists. Producing animation is tough. It takes hard work, devotion, and vision. Even animation that is "phoned in" or "hacked out" requires effort. Animation has dealt with B.S. and adversity at every turn. But more importantly I learned that the greatest achievements in animation no matter the era, always have the most humble of beginnings.

Man vs. Art Episode 22! The History of Animation According to Raul.

Raul Aguirre Jr. manvsart@manvsart.com (Raul Aguirre Jr.) — Mon, 24 May 2010 06:48:32 +0000

Hola Minions! I certainly hope all is well. Today’s podcast is the first of a two part series on…. The History of Animation according to me. Why am I doing this? A good question to which I have a good answer. I recently came to a big decision concerning my technique for producing animation. For [..see full post.]

Man vs. Art Episode 021. The differences between Bad, Good, and Great Art. Plus! The significance of Passion in Art and why Shatner is awesome.

Raul Aguirre Jr. manvsart@manvsart.com (Raul Aguirre Jr.) — Mon, 10 May 2010 10:33:20 +0000

Free swag! Citizen Sanchez Mini Comic and Official Man Vs. Art Minion Pin! Bad Art will prompt zero emotional response in the viewer.Good Art is art that produces an emotion that you have felt before. Great Art is art that produces an emotion that you have NEVER felt before. As many of you know, I am very passionate about art. In fact it gets pointed out to me quite often. I guess a majority of it stems from my refusal to completely grow up. William Shatner is the epitome of the artist who never says die! For over four decades this guy has failed as much as he has as succeeded. He has put out as many stinkers as he has brilliant gems! What's more William Shatner has humiliated himself a few times. But he always bounces back and we love him!

Man Vs. Art Episode 20. Sherm Cohen from Cartoonsnap.com talks about the Essentials! Storyboards, Comics, and Cartoons.

Raul Aguirre Jr. manvsart@manvsart.com (Raul Aguirre Jr.) — Sat, 24 Apr 2010 01:50:13 +0000

Sherm is a storyboard artist with 16 years experience on many hit cartoons including The Ren & Stimpy Show, Hey Arnold, SpongeBob SquarePants, The Mighty B, Phineas and Ferb, and "Kick Buttowski, Suburban Daredevil." In addition to his storyboard work, Sherm has written and directed episodes of Hey Arnold, SpongeBob and Phineas and Ferb. When asked who his greatest cartoon influences were Sherm was all about Harvey Kurtzman. And lastly we talked about the highly inspirational video from the 2008 Comic Con featuring Ralph Bakshi.

Man Vs. Art Episode 19 Cartoons, Agents, and Pitching with Jim Lujan and Kevin Cross

Raul Aguirre Jr. manvsart@manvsart.com (Raul Aguirre Jr.) — Sat, 10 Apr 2010 11:44:07 +0000

Artist reps AKA Agents. Why would you need one? We artists dream of being represented by an agent who will market our work, set up pitch meetings, score us an in-house or freelance gig, and do all that boring non-art stuff like marketing, negotiating, and selling. Well if you have a great idea for an animated TV show, Movie, or book and want to pitch it to the major studios and networks, you'll have a tough time getting a meeting without an agent. The stark truth is that it's extremely tough to find a good agent. For artists it's best if you're already known enough in your field to have agents seeking you instead of you going to them. Sadly this rarely occurs. Very few artists get this privilege. The rest of us must submit material to many agents and agencies and choke down the pile of rejection slips before eventually hooking up with an agent willing to take a chance on us.

Man Vs. Art Episode 18! The Comics Debate. What are comics? What can they do?

Raul Aguirre Jr. manvsart@manvsart.com (Raul Aguirre Jr.) — Fri, 26 Mar 2010 15:36:52 +0000

I feel strongly that the future of comics is going to be in Motion comics. When done correctly they are very cool. They look like traditional comic books, but use sound sometimes and movement for effect. As of now the motion is pretty simple. A zoom-in or out, pans, light effects, etc. But in the hands of a comic artist with an understanding animation and acting, the sky's the limit.

Man vs. Art Episode 17! Giving your art as a gift, Tips for Drawing people in public, plus an interview with Steve Sievers and Dahveed the creators of Supa Pirate Booty Hunt!

Raul Aguirre Jr. manvsart@manvsart.com (Raul Aguirre Jr.) — Mon, 08 Mar 2010 06:20:12 +0000

Some tips when sketching in public. When you are drawing people in public, it's a good idea to be discreet. You never know how some folks might react. Especially the ladies and vain guys. You know "Metro" guys. Try to be tactful also. Save the mean drawings to do at home. And for the love of god, if you are going to let people flip through your sketchbook make sure there isn't anything in there you don't wouldn't show to your mother! I recently attended a wedding where this lady fell victim to my pen.

Man Vs Art Episode016 The essence of drawing and the meaning of appeal.

Raul Aguirre Jr. manvsart@manvsart.com (Raul Aguirre Jr.) — Wed, 10 Feb 2010 07:57:57 +0000

No one else but you takes your art home and dwells upon it at dinner, in the evening, during the wee hours of the morning or when you wake up. A good understanding of the fundamentals of drawing will go a long way in helping you achieve your goals as an artist!

Man vs Art Episode 015 Jim Lujan and some tips on how to hold your pencil.

Raul Aguirre Jr. manvsart@manvsart.com (Raul Aguirre Jr.) — Tue, 26 Jan 2010 20:41:35 +0000

What should mindset as an artist be? I say you need to be enthusiastic, passionate and dedicated. Most importantly you must have the love. If you don't love drawing, I mean really LOVE IT! You won't last. Sorry. Look, creating art is hard. You must love your art enough to get through the tough times.

Man Vs. Art Episode 014! So you want to be an artist? 5 Unavoidable truths about being an artist.

Raul Aguirre Jr. manvsart@manvsart.com (Raul Aguirre Jr.) — Sun, 10 Jan 2010 07:04:36 +0000

If you are serious about learning how to draw, there are a few things you need right off the bat. The desire to to learn, education, patience, dedication, and most important of all, you need tons and tons of practice! Before embarking on your lifelong quest to master drawing, you must be aware of what I call " 5 unavoidable truths of being an artist." If you can't accept ALL of these, perhaps you should try something other than art.

How to draw an Elf going postal for Christmas with The Ramones! Plus a 2D animation of a dancing girl.

Raul Aguirre Jr. manvsart@manvsart.com (Raul Aguirre Jr.) — Fri, 25 Dec 2009 01:14:26 +0000

A little holiday revelry! Lily Feliciano at The Gnomon School of Visual Effects in Hollywood runs a website called Sketch Theater. They celebrate the process of sketching! Can you believe that?! So awesome! They invite professional artists and film them from above as they draw. Then they speed up the footage and add some cool [..see full post.]

Man Vs. Art Episode 13! Part 2 of Indy Comic Book Creator Geo Brawn IV Interview!

Raul Aguirre Jr. manvsart@manvsart.com (Raul Aguirre Jr.) — Sun, 20 Dec 2009 03:36:38 +0000

In today's podcast I present you guys with part two of my chat with my friend and esteemed colleague Los Angeles Indy Comic Creator Geo Brawn IV. We get down to brass tacks about Geo's technique and approach!I learned for example he uses Tuxedo Black Acme Bic markers. A pretty common pen you can pick up at any office supply store for your drawing needs.

Man Vs. Art Episode 12! Interview with Geo Brawn IV! Creator of “The Untold Chronicles!

Raul Aguirre Jr. manvsart@manvsart.com (Raul Aguirre Jr.) — Fri, 04 Dec 2009 20:30:22 +0000

Then I am proud to present part one of my two part chat with local Indy Comic Creator and Illustrator Geo Brawn IV. Here is the initiation ceremony where Geo and Luis Escobar were sworn into the Cartoonistas!

The Art Of Darkness. Although Dorkness is more like it. Angst Wangst!

Raul Aguirre Jr. manvsart@manvsart.com (Raul Aguirre Jr.) — Fri, 20 Nov 2009 08:54:22 +0000

Since when did it become uncool to be a good guy? In the latest Superman movie he's a dead beat dad stalker!!!! That's not the big blue boy scout I recall! If you ask me the world needs more good guys, both in reality as well as fiction.

One Dia late and one Peso Short. La LLorona an illustrated myth art story and narration by Raul Aguirre Jr.

Raul Aguirre Jr. manvsart@manvsart.com (Raul Aguirre Jr.) — Wed, 04 Nov 2009 08:49:16 +0000

An illustrated myth of La Llorona The Weeping Woman, who is Doomed by the Aztec Gods to wander near bodies of water every night lamenting her drowned children forever. Children she drowned.

Man Vs. Art Halloween Special 2009! Edgar Alan Poe, Bill Melendez, Chuck Jones, and why today’s horror movies suck.

Raul Aguirre Jr. manvsart@manvsart.com (Raul Aguirre Jr.) — Mon, 26 Oct 2009 08:15:37 +0000

One of my absolute favorite Holiday specials ever in the history of the universe is without a doubt Charles’s Schulz’s t's the Great Pumpkin, Charlie Brown produced on a shoestring budget and against an impossible deadline by the late great José Cuauhtemoc “Bill” Meléndez. To this day nothing comes close to the warmth and charm this cartoon radiates.

A quick Painting Demo for the cover of my comic book Codename: Sparrow! Plus where to get a copy!

Raul Aguirre Jr. manvsart@manvsart.com (Raul Aguirre Jr.) — Sat, 03 Oct 2009 17:31:52 +0000

Here you’ll find a “speed painting I did for the cover of my comic book Codename: Sparrow. Check it out the final cover of Codename: Sparrow! Codename Sparrow is about International Playboy and Gentleman Thief Eddie Torres who is at the top of his game, and through no fault of his own has it taken [..see full post.]

MAN vs. ART 10 minute Drawing Lesson #2. Building your drawing from the inside out!

Raul Aguirre Jr. manvsart@manvsart.com (Raul Aguirre Jr.) — Sat, 03 Oct 2009 16:40:50 +0000

Today you guys are going to see how a drawing is composed in order to communicate a "gag" or theme the most effectively. This i s the way I was taught to approach a drawing during my days at Disney. You start with the most important section of the drawing and work outwards with each element supporting the previous one. Don't believe me? Check out the video!

Man Vs. Art and the finely inked line between Comic Books and 2d Animation. Why I walk the line.

Raul Aguirre Jr. manvsart@manvsart.com (Raul Aguirre Jr.) — Wed, 30 Sep 2009 20:11:34 +0000

I have LOVED comics my entire life. I still do. To me there is something magical about telling a story with pictures! The magic comes from the transitions. When we go from one panel to the next. Transitions in real life are just as interesting. As you will soon read. I left art school in 1992 and was all ready begin a career in comics.

Man Vs. Art gets a one man Art Show! Plus! A candid interview with talented Los Angeles Independent Animator Jim Lujan.

Raul Aguirre Jr. manvsart@manvsart.com (Raul Aguirre Jr.) — Sun, 20 Sep 2009 20:39:51 +0000

Night of the Sparrow Raul Aguirre Jr.'s one man Art Show announced October 10th, at Geeks Comics in Whittier California! Interview with Jim Lujan local independent animator and nutjob!

King Taco with Glen Keane: A Tale from the Days When Animation was Hand Drawn and Heartfelt.

Raul Aguirre Jr. manvsart@manvsart.com (Raul Aguirre Jr.) — Sun, 20 Sep 2009 11:54:12 +0000

What does A fat lady, a DVD, King Taco, Modelo Beer, and Glen Keane have in common?

How to Draw a pin-up girl the Man Vs. Art Way.

Raul Aguirre Jr. manvsart@manvsart.com (Raul Aguirre Jr.) — Mon, 07 Sep 2009 04:42:04 +0000

Okay kids, here is a quick demo of myself drawing a pin-up girl using Autodesk Sketchbook pro and a wacom tablet.

Man Vs. Art TV Interview, Animation Festival and How to handle distractions and interruptions when you make art the Man vs. Art way!

Raul Aguirre Jr. manvsart@manvsart.com (Raul Aguirre Jr.) — Mon, 07 Sep 2009 03:00:23 +0000

Today I wanted to talk about how artists should handle interruptions and other annoyances when working. Internet, cell phones, TV, the crappy death metal band next door, Jehovah 's witnesses, and jealous talking T-shirts are all things that can throw you off when you are trying to create your latest masterpiece.

claiming Man Vs Art on Technorati

Raul Aguirre Jr. manvsart@manvsart.com (Raul Aguirre Jr.) — Sat, 22 Aug 2009 02:41:58 +0000

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Man vs Art is Publicly Hung! Get the inside scoop on his most recent paintings! Plus! Why self deprecating artists are complete dorks and should be pimp slapped!

Raul Aguirre Jr. manvsart@manvsart.com (Raul Aguirre Jr.) — Fri, 21 Aug 2009 11:45:50 +0000

I'm very fortunate to have such a beautiful and supportive wife who is willing to do the bulk of the leg work and networking that is necessary for me "get my work out there". She loves my paintings, drawings, and sketches so much that she squirrels all of them away.

Ten Minute warm up drawing Demo 1

Raul Aguirre Jr. manvsart@manvsart.com (Raul Aguirre Jr.) — Thu, 13 Aug 2009 18:28:03 +0000

Draw smarter not harder! That's the way a pro does it!

How to improve your drawing skills in only 10 minutes a day with the Man vs. Art method.

Raul Aguirre Jr. manvsart@manvsart.com (Raul Aguirre Jr.) — Wed, 12 Aug 2009 19:29:26 +0000

For an Artist, having your hand warmed up and in sync with your brain greatly improves the odds of your next drawing being good if not awesome. It made me feel confident and prepared for whatever wacky assignment Mrs. Smith had cooked up for class that day.

How can a little luck make a big difference in your art?

Raul Aguirre Jr. manvsart@manvsart.com (Raul Aguirre Jr.) — Tue, 04 Aug 2009 18:00:57 +0000

I know it sounds silly, but as an artist, feelings like this are very empowering and totally conducive to kicking the quality of your work up a notch! With renewed vigor I grabbed my pen and sketched the newlyweds while Harve Villaichez photographed them. That was certainly a special moment I captured with my pen and I feel very fortunate to have been at the right place at the right time.

How to improve your art skills so that your art kills!

Raul Aguirre Jr. manvsart@manvsart.com (Raul Aguirre Jr.) — Wed, 29 Jul 2009 03:55:13 +0000

I just want to make art that satisfies me and if I can help other artists along the way, all the better. I’ll be giving you some insights and feedback about my process and my opinion about Art. I may even pass you a tip or two and tell you a story.