mattsonStudio

And Of Course One for You Zombie Lovers Out There

2012-01-14T23:20:00.000-05:00

So as not to play favorites, here's another undead apparel choice, designed by me, "The Artist".

Please buy one! Two even! Maybe it should be the shirt for your whole softball team! And tell your friends, or perhaps even just your internet friends. You know, the choices really are endless*.

Thanks.

*Lawyer's note: the choices are probably not endless.

The "Vampires Are Dead to Me" Shirt

2012-01-08T20:11:00.000-05:00

I designed a new shirt, you guys! It's for if you totally looove everything vampire, or, like me, if you're kind of a little bit over it; it works either way. It's for sale, 'cause that's how these things work, you know? Spooky.

Shirt comes in any color, size, and style, and can be ordered here, only in the Official Mattson Studio Shop!

If you bought your shirt from a van parked alongside a Piggly Wiggly loading dock somewhere in Arkansas, you should know that totally wasn't the official shop (sorry).

When It's Cold Outside, You Should Make Drawings

2012-01-05T09:55:00.003-05:00

Here's some recent black and white work: "Central Heating", and "Cat Lawyer". The best alternate title for the second one came from a friend: "Catticus Finch". Friends are cool like that.

Mark Mattson's The Little Big Show

2011-11-05T22:52:00.002-04:00

It's on, people, so, please, come on out! November 16-January 17, at High Point Allens Lane. Special reception, Saturday, December 3rd, from 3pm until 5pm.

My Friend Has Tentacles

2011-08-08T14:15:00.001-04:00

New illustration, up on Ye Olde Other Blogge.

Submarine

2011-05-21T23:01:00.001-04:00

Had a few requests for a print version of this, so, hey, I aim to please! New, oversized art print, now available in the shop! Lovingly reproduced from an original mixed media piece, and signed by yours truly, 'cause, you know, I made it.

Remember to enter the code CHILLY upon checkout for 20% off any item, 'cause, you know, that's frugal.

Mallow Variations

2011-02-22T00:02:00.014-05:00

Charred gelatin and I are still friends.

Sometimes.

These Prices Are Not Insane, Because That's Insensitive

2011-02-05T21:34:00.010-05:00

Any item in Mattson Studio Shoppe, now 20% Off. Just enter code: CHILLY

So hot, it's cool. Or, so cold, it's hot. Anyway, whee!

Pill Box Corn Syrup

2011-01-19T23:01:00.005-05:00

Hey, look!

What's that?

New little paintings, that's what.

Oh, I see.

Yes.

Yes, indeed.

The Blame Game Opening Reception

2010-11-07T11:22:00.006-05:00

Thanks to all who came out last Friday night; it was really a nice time, with lots of great conversation, food, and friends. Mini-marshmallows and libations were consumed, no art fell on anybody's toe, and even the paparazzi mostly behaved. No fist-fights, even, save for that one, due to a misunderstanding about some Adirondack chairs on the veranda. That totally didn't happen (so say the lawyers).

In case I missed you Friday night, just a reminder that the show stays up every day until Nov. 29, with these hours:

Mon-Fri: 7AM-7PM
Sat: 7AM-6PM
Sun: 8AM-5PM

Mark Mattson's The Blame Game

2010-11-02T13:31:00.003-04:00

See you on Friday, 6-9 pm!

And, for all you Facebookers: The Blame Game Facebook Page!

Thanks!

Like A Highway In Indiana

2010-09-26T10:59:00.003-04:00

This one's done, finished with antique wooden spools and thread.

'Those In Power", Oils Over Acrylics on Prepared Panel, 2010, by Mark Mattson. Part of POST, this week (gasp, be there!).

Let's Put On A Show

2010-09-25T19:27:00.006-04:00

It's coming up so soon, I can taste it! No, really, there's paint in my mouth.

Next Saturday and Sunday, October 2nd and 3rd, 12-6pm, Dot & Irma's Studio, part of POST Philadelphia 2010.

Check out Five Pack Philly for more info.

TELL ER TRUTH

2010-09-19T19:59:00.003-04:00

Some new, small, painted drawings. Maybe drawn paintings. On wood panels, sizes varied.

"Truth Teller/Tell Er Truth", Mark Mattson, 2010

"Not At All What You're Looking For", Mark Mattson, 2010

Part of upcoming POST show, October 2 & 3.

Some Things Change

2010-09-06T20:13:00.003-04:00

This is a re-worked painting, originally completed in 2008, and exhibited around town. I thought it was finished, but, no, it turned out that it needed candy ghost alter egos. And now it has them.

Original iteration can be seen here. Comments? Opinions? Better off before? I'd love to hear. No, really, I'm serious!

Blog post title courtesy of the wonderful book by Mary Murphy. Thanks, Mary Murphy!

Astounding Virtues

2010-09-05T21:51:00.003-04:00

Oil on Canvas, 2010, by Mark Mattson.

Part of POST show, coming up in less than a month (Eek!), on October 2 & 3. Come on down, I know it'll be fun. But not without you, no pressure.

I Wouldn't Say That

2010-09-02T22:53:00.006-04:00

A scratched and painted sketch: "Say That", Mixed Media on Wood, 2010, Mark Mattson.

By the way: Mount Airy Contemporary Arts Space + Allens Lane Art Center shows start tomorrow, in the vivacious city of Philadelphia. I'll be representin' at both, don't you know.

AND P.P.S: Philly Art Slam is only a week away, a fun and free event, also at Allens Lane Art Center. Check out www.artslam.org for info. I'll be there acting entirely too silly, and you can, too! Participation in the event is still open for contestants, and big crowds are always welcome.

Curses!

2010-08-28T23:25:00.008-04:00

A new piece, oil paint on wood, with metal and glass knobs: "What Curse/Curse What", 2010, by Mark Mattson. Click image for a larger view, per usual, if you so fancy.

Do you so fancy?

Kids' TV Shows That Got It Right: Volume One

2010-08-07T00:24:00.005-04:00

So here's something a little diversionary from a usual "Mattson Studio Blog Post (Endquote)", but important, I think, nonetheless: An incomplete look at childrens' television shows that absolutely got it right.

These projects serve as reminders to me of what should be possible in not just kids' stuff, but in creative pursuits in general, whatever they may be. They are also all really fun to watch, and I am kind of an adult! This is not exhaustive, and more will be written in specific in a later post. You may note this top list skews a little younger, maybe, due to personal tastes, interest in deep wonder, and belief that most kids probably watch way more advanced stuff than they should, way too early.

So:

Kids' TV Shows That Got It Right, In No Specific Order, Except Maybe For "Peep and the Big Wide World," because, sweet night, it's so good, it belongs up top:

***

Peep and the Big Wide World

Blue's Clues

Caillou

Sesame Street

Yo Gabba Gabba

Oobi

Mr. Rogers' Neighborhood

The Wonder Pets

Dinosaur Train

Maisy

Olivia

Fetch! with Ruff Ruffman

Ni Hao, Kai-Lan

Arthur

Pee-Wee's Playhouse

Fraggle Rock

Super Why!

Rocky and Bullwinkle

Mathnet/Square One TV

Mr. Wizard

Reading Rainbow

Little Bill

Clifford

Franklin

Little Bear

Kipper

Pingu

Schoolhouse Rock!

Paz (Discovery Channel Shorts)

***

Kids' Shows That Got It Mostly Right:

***

Zoboomafoo (Points off only for gawdawful animation voice acting)

Dora the Explorer

The Backyardigans

Postcards from Buster (Due to odd cartoon & real human mock-interaction issues)

Curious George

PowerPuff Girls (Only here for not exactly being a kids' show, not its fault)

Samarai Jack (So very brilliant, but see above)

Sid The Science Kid (Kinda creepy and glitchy 3-D animation at times)

***

Title Song Category:

***

64 Zoo Lane

Maisy

***

Personal Taste Nostalgic Sub-Genre: Slightly Spooky:

***

Goosebumps

Strange Days at Blake Holsey High

Encyclopedia Brown

Eerie, Indiana

Gravedale High

***

Have No Idea Anymore, But Were Amazed With When I Was Young:

Read All About It! (This show was so strange, yet so memorable, I swore for years I only dreamed it)

The Letter People

Gigglesnort Hotel

Gather 'Round

You Can't Do That on Television

Kids Incorporated (Catchy theme song division, possibly cast-member childhood crush division)

Doug

3-2-1 Contact

New Zoo Revue

Muppet Babies

Tom Sawyer (Japanese? to English HBO show)

American Gladiators (Yeah, that's right)

***

Older Kids' Category:

***

Degrassi Junior High, Degrassi High, never watched earlier (or later) incarnations

Hull High (Again, Major Crush Sub-division)

***

Had Little or No Idea It Was a Christian Show:

***

Davey and Goliath

***

Toy Commercials with Some Story Involved:

***

Transformers

G.I. Joe

***

Want/Need to See More Of Before Adding Definitively to Any List, But Am Intrigued:

***

ChalkZone

Foster's Home for Imaginary Friends

Johnny Quest

Timeblazers

*****

There. That's a pretty good start for now. Can you tell yet that I'm 34? Note there are very few shows on the list that weren't available new or in reruns in the 1980s through today, and also note that it appears I have a giant crush on PBS. And also Canada.

Please feel free to add in the comments, I love to talk about this stuff, obviously.

Earnest Charities

2010-08-06T00:25:00.005-04:00

Some more new ones, mixed media on wood and canvas, sizes various, Summer 2010, for POST and Infusion shows.

Some New Werks (Spelled Wrong to Seem More European)

2010-07-28T23:26:00.008-04:00

Some new work, incorporating a new style, and back to working with oils, which feels really nice.

These are also larger in general than some other recent work, and they all incorporate some use of words in the pictures themselves. I've missed putting words in paintings, and I realized I missed incorporating oil paint, which I mostly stopped a while back for a number of reasons. Those reasons now seem unimportant, at least for now, because, damn, it's like painting with silk! Stinky, unhealthy (who really knows, though, I'm just guessing), slow-drying, beautiful silk.

These are all in preparation for various shows coming up in the fall and winter, with more info to come. Click images for a li'l larger view.

News!, Merchandise!, and Other Irregularities

2010-06-21T23:56:00.008-04:00

NEWS: So, this weekend's (mini) Philly Art Slam went well, which was a warm-up for September's shindig, so thanks goes out to all who organized and attended (pics to come, if they make me look good, and make it appear that I won, which I didn't). Plans continue to unfold for my participation in this fall's Philadelphia Open Studio Tours event, with more details to come, NAC and Mt. Airy Contemporary's joint show is humming along, and another Philadelphia solo show is slated for November. Guess I'd better get to work, or something. Ooh, and some of my prints are now available at Jean-Jacques Gallery, and coming soon to the Etsy shop, as well.

MERCHANDISE: Is there new stuff? Oh, man, is there new stuff. Major updates to the merchandising wing of Mattson Studio, Incorporated, as several new designs and products have been made and added to the shop. Fun, I swear it! Thanks, interns! (There are no interns.)

OTHER IRREGULARITIES: No, I don't actually know the above t-shirt model, but I do note how he looks like he's mugshot-posing for security at Coachella. Noted! Also noted is his really unfortunate head cropping. Ooch, indeed.

The Matte/Mattson Show

2010-05-12T22:23:00.005-04:00

It's so on, art-lovers. Or, I suppose, those who just like pizza and local breweries. That's cool, too.

Click images for details. If you want, you can even be part of the Official Mark Travis Mattson Street Marketing Team, too, and click on the double poster/flyer, print it out, cut it in half, and hang up a bunch of flyers all over town. Hey, why not, sounds like fun, right? And way less destructive than, say, spray-painting it all over town. You're not condoning that, right?

The show looks great, is with super-cool art wiz Todd Matte, and is at a really fun joint, spanning two whole floors of funkiness. Very casual reception is Friday evening, and the show runs through July.

Special thanks to Northwest Artists Collective, and Peggy and Tom at Earth.

"Wood-Fired Pizza & Miracle Beer", Mark Mattson, 2010.

Q: Hey, Are Those New Features? A: Yes.

2010-04-13T22:39:00.007-04:00

In case you haven't noticed (what, you're still here?), a new "Illustration Portfolio" page has been added to this blog, over there on the right, for ease in browsing purposes.

My "official" website is currently being migrated, updated, re-hosted, and generally beaten-up upon, and, as such, is not accessible right now. What, you haven't noticed that? Aww. Well, that's why you get this goofy thing right now. That's not nice, is it?

Anyway, cheers to change! Or, something like that, with more to come, yay. In other news, happy spring, and happy Conan O'Brien new televised comedic offerings announced, also yay, it's about time.

Um, uh, Mattson out!

Yay.

Berries for Sewing

2010-03-14T11:53:00.003-04:00

Newly unveiled in Mattson Studio Shop, "Strawberry Pincushion". Ouch?

From the Bookshelf

2010-02-25T20:45:00.008-05:00

Some highlights from this week's bookshelf: some really good ones being read and re-read. Great for shut-in snow days in the snowiest Philadelphia winter in recorded history. More details to come...gotta go read some more. Where's a working fireplace, anyway?

The Gourds Must Be Crazy

2010-02-10T18:55:00.005-05:00

Oh, man, I'm sorry about that post title; I think cabin snow fever is setting in. Snowpacolypse 2010, and all, you know.

Anyway, when the snow falls, I get to scanning artworks, I guess:

"Pink & Green Odd Squash", 2009, Mixed Media on Recycled Wood Panel.

It's Dough, Yo.

2010-02-09T13:38:00.003-05:00

"Soft Pretzel with Mustard", 2009, Acrylic on Wood Panel.

This was in "The Yum! Show", and also "Art Peace & Pizza". It is now burning into your retinas, forever. I mean back in my studio, awaiting a new home. That's what I meant.

Romeo & Juliet (With Pickles)

2010-02-08T13:00:00.005-05:00

"Pickle & Pickle Spear", 2009, also not quite a valentine. Or, maybe it is, I don't know, I don't pry in your lives.

Roomies: A Not Love Story

2010-02-08T12:17:00.004-05:00

"Apple & Worm", 2009, Mixed Media on Recycled Wood Panel.

Corn, Candied

2010-02-07T10:41:00.004-05:00

It's always Halloween. Or at least should be.

"Candy Corn Number Four", Mixed Media on Recycled Wooden Panel, 2009.

Cornsyrup-y, indeed.

Ni Hao, Guvnor

2010-01-18T16:17:00.004-05:00

Now also up in Mattson Studio Shop:

"Tea Pot & Cup (Asian & English)", 2009, Mixed Media on Wooden Cabinet Door.

Marshmallow, Redux

2010-01-16T22:38:00.004-05:00

Part of new "Remodel" series, on all reclaimed and recycled materials. This one: kitchen cabinet door.

Now in Shop , fresh from "Yum! Show".

Oh, You Better Believe I Got One

2009-12-26T13:40:00.004-05:00

It came today, in the mail! Thanks, D & M. Want one, too? I imagine it's readily available. I like the way it looks here better than when they glammed it up by making it look miraculously like a giant, full-figured tree. Anybody really ever have one of those colored tin models that are shown in the Charlie Brown lot, before they pick this one?

Good Grief, this gets the "Mattson Studio Super-Crazy-Awesome-Righteous-Sweet Stupendousness Award of the Week".

The Mattson Merchandise Table

2009-12-01T12:24:00.007-05:00

Omigosh omigosh omigosh, it's Stuff! Are you a person who likes Stuff? Do you know a person who likes Stuff, perhaps? Well, this is Stuff with Mark Mattson Studio Artwork on it; in other words, the best Stuff in the world, and fully customizable, to boot, made to order within 24 hours. Wow, and wow, indeed (and so much more personal than a Snuggie, don't you think?).

Paths to Health and Happiness

2009-11-21T21:54:00.006-05:00

"Beer, Celery, Pills", Mark Mattson, 2009, acrylic on cabinet door, now showing with a new series of two-tones, at Dirty Girl Brigade, a terrific new eco-culture shop, on Germantown Avenue, Philadelphia.

For those scoring at home, the model for the can was Baltimore's own National Bohemian, "From the Land of Pleasant Living". Now you know.

Yum Show Final Week Pre-Holiday Blowout Sale!

2009-11-20T22:46:00.007-05:00

Starting now, until, oh, let's say, Wednesday, December 2nd, everything left at "Apples Are Yum (The Yum! Show)!", at High Point Cafe, 602 Carpenter Lane, in Philadelphia, is on blue-light art special, at 15% off list price! This is, if you contact me by that date about purchasing a piece, all items still available at the show are now, poof, that much less, wow, talk about stimulus, Detroit has nothing on these deals, baby. Is this unprecedented at such an acclaimed art event? Perhaps, I don't know, but that's how we're rolling.

Just use the code "yumAppleYum" in any call or correspondence about a piece, and whammo, 15% off whatever is still listed. That's just some crazy artistic savings. Will I hold you to using the code? Probably not, no, that's mostly just silly. Do you have to use a coupon? No, probably not, though it might be fun if you do, you never know.

Seriously, though, it's been a truly great show, it just has to come down at close November 30th, to make way for some other terrific stuff by another great artist, and, you know, there's only so much room in my Mitsubishi for the ride back to the studio, so why not bite now, you know? The timing is, like, totally impeccable.

Yes, it includes all of these pieces, as well as everything else over at High Point, including Marshmallows, here, so check it out, verily; there's something like 34 pieces hanging up at the shop. I usually get a latte, and they're oh, so very nice there.

Greetings from Fishtown, USA

2009-11-16T20:45:00.006-05:00

I'm proud to announce joining forces with Fishtown Airways, a terrific and new(ish) art gallery and collective, at 200 E. Girard Avenue, smack dab in front of the green trolleys, and right across the street from Johnny Brenda's.

I have around ten pieces hanging up there currently, including ornaments (ooh-la-la), but am dropping off new stuff all the time. Lots of fun stuff and events are always being scheduled, aside from the normal awesome art and craft always on display; so please, check it out, Fishtown-style. Super-accessible hours are as follows:

Tues - Thurs : 1pm - 8pm
Friday : 1pm - 9pm
Saturday : 11am - 9pm
Sunday : 12pm - 5pm

See you there! Thanks to PhillySkyline.com, for the nice pic of the trolley. Do they look familiar, San Francisco?

UPDATE! The gallery's been kicked out of their lease at this location! Arts groups in uproar! Group still together! Updates coming soon...?

Illustrated Furniture, Now at Dirty Girl Brigade

2009-11-10T19:00:00.014-05:00

I illustrate stories, sometimes on three dimensions! Check out this, and more new stuff, including new paintings, proudly debuting at Dirty Girl Brigade, 7125 Germantown Avenue, in Philadelphia. You simply cannot escape my work in the Delaware Valley Region this holiday season, no matter how hard you try. But that's good, right?

Right?

(Ahem.)

Mattson Studio: Mt. Airy Focus on Local Art

2009-11-02T20:29:00.009-05:00

Hi, there.

"THE STUDIO" (i.e., "me") is proudly participating this month in "Focus on Local", happening all around Mt. Airy Philadelphia, where bazillions of institutions, cafes, galleries, and businesses are playing host to scads and oodles of awesome local artists' work. Shown here are some screen shots from the website, including "Tea Pot and Cup (Asian & English)", hanging at High Point Cafe, and Mattson Studio favorite Julia Lehman-McTigue's "Hannah w/Copper Leaf 2", over at One Salon.

For a full list of artists and locales, visit mtairyphilly.com/focus. Openings are this Friday and Saturday!

Eat Fresh, Eat Local, Eat Anthropomorphic.

2009-10-26T10:30:00.004-04:00

Here's a mural proposal for a terrific co-operative grocery store in Philadelphia. Click image for a larger view.

Corn/Syrup

2009-10-18T12:42:00.004-04:00

Part of a new series.

By the way, the opening last week went great! Thanks to all who came, and to all who asked about it. The show itself runs through November 30th, and stuff is moving fast, so get in on the action! Like, totally, whoa! The staff at High Point say the show has been really well-received, and a big thanks also goes out to all of them, as well. Thanks!

T-Minus Really Soon, and Counting, to Yumminess Today

2009-10-10T11:54:00.008-04:00

Well, today's the day, folks, The Yummiest Day in the History of the Universe. No, really: The Yum! Show has its official debut in Philadelphia. Come on by!, 4-6 PM, at High Point, in Mt. Airy. Food, folks, fun. Thanks to Philadelphia Weekly for the picture. Don't worry, you won't miss KISS, but I like how it looks like my show is associated somehow with a KISS concert. It is not. Unless you want it to be, in your mind.

I Need One of Those Strings Around My Finger, Or Something

2009-10-07T16:32:00.012-04:00

What was that thing that was going on this weekend; heck, that was going on already, as we speak, even, from 7AM to 7PM every day? It had to do with culture, and whimsy, celebrity, and gastronomy...it was like a carnival of some sort; like a festival of the sublime, a treat for the senses? What was that thing? It was like Iron Chef, but with paint, and cookies. I'm sure it will come to me.

YUM! is GO!

2009-10-05T19:56:00.013-04:00

Here are some quick snapshots from the hang of "The Yum! Show", now up and away at High Point, in Philadelphia, until November 30th! Come on out, any day, but get cookies and booze if you come on October 10, from 4 to 6 PM, for the opening. There, if you needed incentive for culture, there you have it.

Thanks goes to Jean-Claire, for all the big-time assistance, and Meg and Curtis at High Point, too. Special thanks to Rachel, for help with the hang-up, and with the photos. You rock, all. More pics to come. See you Saturday!

Apples Are Yum! (The Yum! Show) Sneaky-Peeky #5

2009-09-24T20:56:00.011-04:00

"Tea Pot & Cup (Asian & English)", Mixed Media on Recycled Wooden Cabinet Door, by Mark Mattson. Part of several recycled cabinet door pieces, and many other food portraits, on wood and canvas, opening up next week at High Point Gallery, in Philadelphia. Opening is October 10th, with much frivolity practically guaranteed*.

*Like, 125% Guaranteed. That's alotta guarantee.

Apples Are Yum! (The Yum! Show) Sneaky-Peeky #4

2009-09-18T00:32:00.010-04:00

Well, kids, the Show's still a-comin', and it's a-comin' pretty soon. Can this be true? Yes. Yes, Virginia, it's true; it's totally sooner than I thought possible. Probably you, too, I'm not sure...

The Yum! Show Sneaky-Peeky 4: "Corn Syrup and Maple Syrup (Smartee and Little Chicken Syrup Bottle)", Mixed Media on Canvas, mostly acrylic, detail, previously shown in progress here.

As always, click pic for larger view.

Three from the Easel (From the Easel Sneaky Peeky #3)

2009-09-16T11:41:00.004-04:00

Snapshot of three small portraits in progress, painted on remnant wood from a desk manufacturing factory. Part of next month's "The Yum! Show (Apples Are Yum!), in Philadelphia (and online, too!, with details to come). These three are now done, so I'll post final pics, too.

Last Weekend for "Yummy!" Columbus!

2009-09-11T16:35:00.006-04:00

Thanks to the lovely Amy Neiwirth, of Sweet Stella Designs, and curator of "Yummy!" at Matchbox in Grandview, for the scans of some recent press for the show, and for photos of the opening. Last chance to dance, this weekend! Not to be confused with "Apples Are Yum! (The Yum! Show)", in Philly, which doesn't open until October 1st. In case I didn't mention that before.

Apples Are Yum! (The Yum! Show) Sneaky-Peeky #2

2009-09-10T13:23:00.008-04:00

"Chocolate Milk and Two-Percent", Mixed Media on Recycled Cabinet Door, by Mark Mattson, 2009. Part of "Apples Are Yum! (The Yum! Show)", opening October 1st, with Reception October 10th.

It's like race relations, but with dairy.

From the Easel Sneaky-Peeky

2009-09-06T11:59:00.005-04:00

"Ear of Corn, Blueberry, and Strawberry (Contained)", Mixed Media on Recycled Cabinet Door.

Part of "The Yum Show (Apples Are Yum)!", beginning October 1, at High Point, with Reception on October 10, from 4-6.

It Was In A Book...on TV!

2009-09-01T14:42:00.003-04:00

Not that I exactly knew it was still being produced, but darnit, like all things now gone, jeez, I miss it.

Congratulations on such a great run, Reading Rainbow, I loved ye. And if phonics-focused educational TV emphasis killed its funding, for shame: Kids won't want to read if they're not shown how cool it can be to read. At any rate, a terrific show sure to be re-ran for decades to come, here's hoping.

The Yum! Show, a Fresh Collection of Food Portraits, by Mark Mattson

2009-08-26T09:47:00.021-04:00

OK, so the opening reception for Yum! is Saturday, October 10th, from 4-6 pm, at High Point, at Carpenter and Greene, in Philly, and looks to be a grand old time, consisting of sweets baked up by Meg Hagele's Crack Culinary Team, libations, and a staggering array of new food art works created specifically for the show. There could quite possibly also be wonderfully festive and melodic Japanese Food-Pop Music playing, but, please, don't let that stop anybody from coming, please. Alright, I won't play any, fine. But I'll be there, and so should you.

It's a bit of art show naming that may seem to border on trademark infringement, but really only pays homage by acknowledging this titling awesomeness, which I'm also part of. Show opens October 1st, and goes through November 30th. Halloween season will never look yummier, I can almost guarantee. Oh, heck, I guarantee it. See you on the 10th.

You Want Some Yummy, I Can Sense These Things

2009-08-08T21:43:00.010-04:00

Oh, hey, hello there, so, like, "Yummy!" is less than a week away, opening this Friday ("Strawberry Candy Portrait" is on the promotionals, so that's fun), the show itself showcases about 40 super-swell artists from all around these United States, and it benefits The Mid-Ohio Foodbank, even. These are all stellar things in my book. It's sponsored by The Couchfire Collective, curated by the estimable Amy Neiwirth, and all drops down at the Matchbox Gallery, at Junctionview Studios in Grandview.

And you better believe there's a blog about it, right here, thankyouverymuch. Visit, and comment, visit and comment. And then, like, you know, check out the show!, running until September 13th.

It's even Pecha-Kucha Night at the opening! I feel like I really should just rent a helicopter and land it on top of the building for the opening party, it sounds like so much fun. Note: Junctionview Studios may not actually be capable of supporting helicopter landings.

Are you coming? Because I really have to know whether or not to get the helicopter.

Three Marshmallows, One on Fire

2009-07-24T15:36:00.007-04:00

The largest thing in the history of the universe is now finished. If, by the universe, I mean, my studio. And by largest, I mean, probably the largest, like top 1% territory, at least, at least regarding things that have been produced in said studio. It's pretty large, is what I'm saying, size-wise. It would nicely fill out a room, y'know?

It's residing here, at least for the time-being, because, hey, why not, it's a nice place, at least in a virtual, web-type sense. Comments, criticism, Bronx cheers, orders, whatevs, always welcome, of course, smiley-face emoticon.

The Newsly Times: Late-July Edition

2009-07-19T14:54:00.011-04:00

So, hi, there; here are a couple of news-ly tidbits for you, fresh from THE STUDIO.

1. First off, I'm offering some prints over in the shop now! I've done these on a commissioned basis for a while now, and figured, hey, let's offer 'em up all the time. Economicalartistic-osity, I'd say, and who wouldn't? I'll be adding more over time, so let me know if there are any specific requests.

2. I'll be participating in Matchbox Gallery's Yummy! Show in Junctionview Studios, in Columbus, next month through September. This is especially cool because my Alma Mater is in Columbus, and goshdarnit, what a great town to see art in, you know? So much youth squandered there, too. Maybe just mine. More details to come.

Bonus News-ly Tidbit #3!:

3. Final finishing touches are underway for upcoming High Point show in late September/October! I can only say that the collection of artworks on display will be bigger than Elvis. Or El-Vez. Or maybe none of them, but it will be astounding nonetheless, and the biggest collection of new works all together in one space in a long time! Stay tuned for details.

This may be all right now as far as pressing Newslyness. But you never know, so check back soon, y'hear?

-Mark

A Real Problem

2009-07-14T12:10:00.007-04:00

A nice little video, if'n you're into this kind of thing, which I have been known to be in the past. Well, OK, presently, as well.

Courtesy Boing Boing, via John Scalzi, with thanks to, oh, heck, I can't keep up. Just watch it; it's funny, and it tells who made it at the end. After marathon LAN sessions of yore, I just recall my shear and acute jumpiness to every possible minute movement while walking down the street, from blowing leaves, to sparrows, to any gum wrapper skittering across the sidewalk from around a blind corner. After playing effective FPS's; all of these things are out to get ya. Perhaps I shouldn't play these after all (damn you, Unreal Tournament).

Take It, It's Yours

2009-07-02T10:40:00.005-04:00

Uber-awesome photo by Flickr-user extraordinaire Mike Fleming, of Philadelphia's Thinker. Turns out it was just temporary, while being moved out of the way of Rodin Museum construction, and not a comment on America's attitude towards the arts. Or is it!?

Found at Philebrity.

Seascape Redux

2009-06-30T22:48:00.007-04:00

I've just been informed that it's summertime, it has been for some time now, and tomorrow is, in fact, the first day of July. How perfect, then, for this to come along, during such uncertain summer-times.

It's a portrait of a conch, and a flame auger shell, which has absolutely nothing to do with the Awesome Auger, which should really stop being shown on TV with Billy Mays hawking it, shouldn't it? Anyway, I digress, but, really, shouldn't it? I dunno.

Anywho, happy shore-going, to anyone lucky enough to be near a shore, and happy 4th, as well, to anyone lucky enough not to have ever stepped barefoot on a Black Cat as a child. Guilty as charged. No wait, maybe it was a Sparkler. Anyway, Black Cat still sounds funnier. And if you don't live in the United States, well, happy normal fourth day of the month to you!

Good Fathers and Their Mice

2009-06-21T13:34:00.009-04:00

A very good book to read on Father's Day would be "Ernest and Celestine", written and illustrated by Gabrielle Vincent, from around 1982, but first published in Belgium.

Ernest acts as a capable and caring father figure to Celestine, even though she is a mouse, and he is a bear. This fact is never mentioned outright, though she does call him by first name. There's very spare and economically executed dialogue, which partners well with the earthy watercolors, and I've only just realized now that there's no non-dialogue writing in the entire story. This causes the reader to fill in all necessary details in plot, without noticing its absence, in a nice "Readers aren't idiots" kind of way. Their relationship is sincere, strong, difficult, and timeless, like the overall feeling of the book.

Happy Father's Day, Dads.

Drink This Or the Puppet Gets It

2009-06-17T11:12:00.009-04:00

Everymuppet has to start somewhere.

Video link via BoingBoing, via Superpunch, via annals of Muppet History.

Hey, Dad, Hey, Grad

2009-06-10T11:21:00.004-04:00

You like drinking beverages, don't you? Sometimes even hot beverages, perhaps with caffeine in them? What? You like to be able to customize your mug, exactly to your liking?

Excellent.

Katamari Online

2009-06-05T01:15:00.003-04:00

Can we please have this in America, like, yesterday? Thanks.

Glow-In-the Dark Box O' Bones

2009-06-02T22:14:00.007-04:00

Super Kudos to the packaging design on our new Box O' Bones, from the oh, so reliable Accoutrements, and their retail wing, Archie McPhee, which I have loved ever since junior high, and I imagine I always will.

It would seem, according to this, that there is also alternate packaging (?!), of which i can not confirm its awesomeness, due to the small image, but the retro and clean look of this packaging gets, get ready for it, the "Mattson Studio Super-Crazy-Awesome-Righteous-Sweet Stupendousness Award of the Week". On the real box, the green is more muted, and hence, more old-fashioned science-spooky, but this is the best image I could find right now.

Further proof of McPhee being true purveyors of perfect foolishness, in all the right ways. The skeleton? Oh, it's swell, too. I wonder if working at Accoutrements is a Shangri-La Oasis of Happiness, and if so, sign me up.

Recent Historical-ish Whatnots, and Such, Verily:

2009-05-30T19:23:00.004-04:00

From Le Shoppe:

George here was quite the statesman, obviously, but also known for his ability to catch frisbees with his wooden teeth. That's a myth; frisbees weren't invented yet.

Dog George Washington is currently residing here.

File Under: Things Made for Cute Girls*

2009-05-29T23:06:00.004-04:00

A coupla sugar packets, who like each other. In America's diners, coffee shops, restaurants, bistros, and cafes, we (occasionally still) like to draw little pictures, scenarios, and cartoons right on these little guys, as interactive ad-hoc canvases. So I guess I'm the "sucre", but she is certainly not artificial, even though she's the Sweet-n-Low here. I did this a while back.

* Who later became my wife

Manufactured Dissent Art Collective: Mark Mattson Q&A

2009-05-28T12:09:00.010-04:00

Special thanks to online art and culture juggernaut Manufactured Dissent, for posting a recent interview with me, conveniently located right here. A brief intro is also right about here.

Stories of stints at The Betty Ford Clinic are graciously omitted, as are mentions of touring as back-up keytar player with Right Said Fred during the 90's.

Permalink is, oh, right about, here:

Manufactured Dissent Art Collective: Mark Mattson Q&A

Thanks, again; some of those were really tricky questions for me, and rightfully so! And P.S., by the way, I'd be completely and dork-ily remiss if I didn't also mention to my wife Jean-Claire that she is a hugely crucial and gigantic part of me ever making anything. Thank you.

Central Perk Would So Totally Go For This

2009-05-27T11:32:00.004-04:00

G'Mornin', planet. This painting got remixed a bit, by the finest talent in the art biz, which are closely related to music super-producers, like Dr. Dre, Timbaland, T-Bone Burnett, or the Neptunes. Okay, I just fixed it, that's all.

I know it's almost noon in Philly, but still, g'mornin'. G'afternoon, London, g'night, Tokyo, and howdy, Lago Vista, how's the water?

Mattson Studio "Marshmallows on Fire" Hat-Trick Trifecta

2009-05-26T12:35:00.007-04:00

"Marshmallow from H-E-Double-Hockey-Sticks", 2009. For more info, see here.

Further Abuse of Marshmallows

2009-05-18T14:31:00.004-04:00

On a grander scale, though, since this is about 7 feet by 4 feet. They don't mind.

As usual, click for larger. Not 7 x 4 feet larger, but still.

Fun With Camping and Gelatin

2009-05-13T20:19:00.004-04:00

This is part of the painting portion of my work week, marshmallows on cabinet door, which is wrapping up. It's probably for my show at High Point in the fall, or maybe somewhere else. Maybe here first, though. The possibilities are so endless.

No, My Best Friend Doesn't Go to This School

2009-05-02T22:46:00.010-04:00

If you see only one movie this year about twelve-year-old best friends in Sweden, one of which is a vampire, make it American Pie 2. Oh, crap, make that Let the Right One In. Such an understated and original view of friendship, difficult emotions, and cold places. I'm entirely ignoring the news that I just read after watching it that an American remake (jeesh) is on the way; just go and watch this version somehow immediately. Really beautifully done.

Official English-language site here.

Bear Affair This Thursday!

2009-04-27T19:45:00.009-04:00

I'm very honored to be part of a fantastic and important children's benefit later this week, the Philadelphia Children's Alliance 9th Annual Bear Affair.

This is a fundraising event benefiting the work The Alliance does on behalf of abused kids, and is being held this Thursday evening, from 6-9:30, in the Crystal Tea Room of the Wanamaker Building, in Center City. It's a cocktail party, and silent auction, and there's about a zillion terrific things up for bid. I've donated this Pensive Rabbit Portrait, below.

Purchase tickets for the event here, and if you can't attend, please support the alliance in any other way you can. Thanks!

From Somewhere in Philadelphia: Some Fruit, a Knife, and Considerable, You Know, Intrigue

2009-04-20T13:22:00.008-04:00

A quick snapshot of something in progress in the Studio. Sorry, Le Studio. (Fancy.)

I'm calling it "Fruit Salad Horror Show", and it's mixed media on a wooden cutting board. I hope there's not an Anti-Fruit Vivisection Society...

Mole and the Baby Bird

2009-04-13T22:17:00.003-04:00

Sometimes a book just kicks you in the butt. The book: "Mole and the Baby Bird". The butt, yours truly.

I mean, lord knows, it's not that the themes haven't been explored before: A baby bird needs to fly?!; if you love someone, set them free??!!, but, man, do they (Marjorie Newman and Patrick Benson) do it right in this one: this book is beautiful. Is this a series? It would seem to scream out for book siblings, what with its assured characters, and funny gigantic mole hands on every page. But maybe that part's just me.

Published by Bloomsbury USA, but with illustrations smelling distinctly like rural England countrysides. Perhaps a reprint for Americans, and happily so.

Sci-Food

2009-04-10T20:10:00.006-04:00

Part of a new series.

This one's going off to live in St. Louis for a little while. Maybe even for forever (gasp!)*

As always, click for larger.

*due to, you know, selling.

Not MilqueToast, Mind You

2009-04-07T18:46:00.013-04:00

My wife gave me these two little plushes as a gift some time ago. I guess she knows me a little bit. "Things that should not have faces. With faces (TM)", you know?

She got them at a gallery in Philadelphia, but they're also available from Dog Bone Art itself, at its Etsy site, right here. It's a virtual emporium of all things anthropomorphic! In other words, Mattson Studio-Approved, naturally. Or unnaturally, I guess. They're hand-screen printed by Laura herself, somewhere in New Jersey.

All the better, I say, for things both soft and silly. It gets the "Mattson Studio Super-Crazy-Awesome-Righteous-Sweet Stupendousness Award of the Week".

Indeed.

So Very Cherry

2009-04-03T11:34:00.006-04:00

New food portrait work, this time inspired by Jolly Ranchers and the real food they imitate.

On view at Jean-Jacques this month, with an opening party tonight!

El Beisbol, the Art Show

2009-04-02T12:55:00.007-04:00

Part of some new work, going up this Friday, tomorrow, at Jean-Jacques Gallery, in Philadelphia.

If you didn't guess it already, the theme for this First Friday is "The Civil War". No, wait, that's Baseball. Baseball is the theme. Among other things, of course, but it is, of course, Opening Day this week. That's a hook on the classic Phillies hat one, which I guess you could hang your World Series Ring on. Something I'm not too familiar with, being a Cubs supporter, but still, I'm very happy for my adopted city. It's been a relatively happy collective winter around these parts, mood-wise.

Sorry, Mets, I have no particular animosity towards you; besides, compared to these guys, you're like Nelson Mandela, or something. Anyway, I'll be there Friday, so come on down! Sherman, at Jean-Jacques, always puts on a nice reception as well.

Mattson Studio Super-Crazy-Awesome-Righteous-Sweet Stupendousness Award of the Week: Alphaville

2009-03-30T21:43:00.008-04:00

So, "Mattson Studio Super-Crazy-Awesome-Righteous-Sweet Stupendousness Award of the Week" goes to Alphaville, a vast emporium of things artfully retro, nostalgically whimsical, and, overall, beautiful and funny, located near my hotel in Soho, over on Houston Street, in New York.

I scanned this lovely lenticular-sheet of Peanuts goodness that I purchased there, to share here, which apparently would have been cut out and made into buttons during some unknown early 1980's wonder-day. Fotunately for my wall, and the annals of art history, it was spared the blade, and will now reside framed, in my office, where it will forever inspire me to change, and evolve, by slightly moving my head back and forth, or up and down quickly.

P.S. It is very hard to scan a lenticular hologram, but this at least gives a good idea.

Alphaville.com

Sardine of Outer Space

2009-03-29T09:28:00.010-04:00

In a seemingly inexhaustible parade of awesomely all-ages comics originating from French-persons, here comes the "Sardine in Outer Space" Series, by Emmanuel Guibert and Joann Sfar.

What is with the preponderance of excellence that is comix creation from France? Is it the wine? The cafes? The Folies Bergère? The cultural support and respect given to the advancement and continued innovation of the comics and illustration media and of its creators? Ah, maybe that one. That one sounds nice.

Anyway, this is a silly, slap-sticky, rollicking adventure series following the travels of a space-pirate girl named Sardine, her uncle Captain Yellow Shoulder, and her cousin Li'l Louie, along with a crew of buccaneer aliens, and recurring bumbling villains. I've started the series with the # 5 Collection, here, and it makes me smile. Sardine is the one with the cat in her hat.

Published by First Second Books.

Of All Things Shrink-Wrapped: A Food Portrait Odyssey, Continued

2009-03-24T21:32:00.006-04:00

Detail pic of a new painting: "Pack of Supermarket Bacon and Asparagus".

(This one is not the asparagus.)

Otto's Orange Day

2009-03-18T10:29:00.008-04:00

This was a nice surprise found while rummaging through bedtime, official Mattson Studio-time, and all-other-time books: "Otto's Orange Day", by Frank Cammuso and Jay Lynch, published by, wouldn't you know it, Francoise Mouly and Art Spiegelman, over at Toon Books, which is kind of, sort of, part of Little Lit, but for slightly younger comics readers. And, um, me.

P.S. Has anyone ever drawn a genie, say, with lederhosen? Just wondering.

Dora the Explora Goes All Tween-y

2009-03-17T11:59:00.012-04:00

In honor of St. Patrick's Day, I'm going to highlight the plight of a little girl most likely hailing from somewhere deep in Central America. If that doesn't make sense, it's because I'm only 6.3% Irish. Possibly 7%. Anyway.

I've seen the transmogrification of beloved animated characters over the years, bending to meet trends and marketing campaigns, not to mention the actual "aging" of said characters' original core base. Some of these have been great, some good, some pretty good, some just okay, and some horrifyingly disgusting. Or worse.

I've actually worked on some Dora products, too, and, for the most part, think that Dora, as a creative whole, is pretty positive. Now, please never put Diego and Dora's heads next to each other again, particularly when they're forced to wear headgear, as their head shape and size discrepancy is simply too extreme to consider humane. Are we sure they're in the same family?

I also understand how devoted a following she can inspire, as she is good, just, helpful, adventurous, and overall, fun. Her best friend is a monkey who wears giant red boots, and her parents see no problem setting her out on untold dangers with no one but said monkey who wears giant red boots. Hmm. Well, the show's not about her parents, anyway. It's about Dora. Who explora's, you know?

That said, I really don't hold it against the makers of The Dora Empire to occasionally want to evolve some things a bit. This sneak-peek image was a mistake to reveal, yes. I'll wait and see; I guess it's just one toy, anyway. Yes, I really despise toys aimed, particularly to girls, female images that are creepy, trampy, superficial, vapid, and waaaay too grown-up, and sexed-up for their target audience. Or, sometimes, for ANY audience. I've seen lots of this kind of thing, and would really dislike seeing Dora go down that path. But folks, this is a toy, and a corporate juggernaut, at that, not anything more. But, we know that already, so, it's cool, and hey, Dora should be successful. Don't buy things for your kids that you hate, even if they ask for it, and definitely not because the manufacturer asks you to.

Yes, the color version was finally, and desperately, released, maybe a bit late. Except that everyone is talking about Dora again, something that has, let's face it, has probably trailed off a bit. You know, from complete and total world domination, that's all. That color picture's really not so bad, is it? She looks pretty cool to me. Maybe she has more sense not to hang around crocodiles so much anymore, especially while balancing on floating logs .

Sadly, a Tween Swiper has not been announced, probably due to Juvenile Detention.

P.S. And, oh, by the way, there's nothing wrong with this design at all, either. There, I said it.

Works in Progress Vol. 4,568: Maple Syrup and Corn Syrup

2009-03-13T11:51:00.023-04:00

The color's coming in, and some further definition. My wife's afraid of the drips, but most of the drips aren't staying, anyway. I'm a little afraid of the drips.

I will note that my daughter is not afraid of the drips.

Off to do some wholly unrelated work now: it's computer time!

P.S.: Trash is courtesy of a secret birthday bouquet for my wife. Don't worry, it's already been given.

P.P.S.: Plant Pot is courtesy of Tesserae.

P.P.P.S.: Mug is courtesy of Piggly Wiggly, a very fancy place.

Peace, Dawg

2009-03-05T13:39:00.004-05:00

More from the Studio, on the third floor, somewhere in Philadelphia, USA.

Werks in Progress, Vol. 439

2009-03-05T11:02:00.002-05:00

A bit further along on Watering Can and Carrot this morning, getting close to a finish.

Like most pics on this blog, click for a larger view, if'n you want to. Those are GameGoo pictures in the background, from back in the day. I did love them Boom Internet Startup Days of Yore, back when getting imaginary stock options was so awesome!

Anyway, I digress. I still love both pixel paint, and gloppy paint from a tube, though.

The Office

2009-03-03T11:56:00.003-05:00

Nice to see Ivan Brunetti do the cover of the New Yorker this week. I like his comic work, and visual style quite a lot.

Snowmergency!

2009-03-02T11:52:00.003-05:00

Official snow day today for Philadelphia. The city is stymied! Glad I don't live in Manayunk on days like this: Tiny, Little Philadelphia Lanes + Parking on Both Sides of Street + Serious Inclines + Serious Snowplow Neglect.

Buffalo just chuckles, I just know it.

Handmade Little House

2009-03-01T11:05:00.003-05:00

Recently got this handmade clothespin Laura Ingalls Wilder doll for my wife, who is an absolute "Little House on the Prairie" freak. It's from Uneek Doll Designs' Etsy shop , as part of her Literary Classics Line. Nice stuff.

Maple Syrup/Corn Syrup

2009-02-27T13:46:00.003-05:00

One of the things I'm working on today, for an upcoming show.

Candy is Dandy, but Liquor is Quicker (Sorry, Ogden Nash)

2009-02-25T13:18:00.006-05:00

Some new (small) stuff. Portraits of corn syrup, essentially.

Ooh, and I just found this. A very informative resource, I should say.

"B" (An Alphabet Portrait in Green):

2009-02-24T23:59:00.006-05:00

New Custom Letter Portraits are now made to order, in the Mattson Studio Shop!

Works in Progress: Horticulture (On Panel)

2009-02-24T12:20:00.004-05:00

Snapshot of something I'm painting this morning. This will hang at High Point, in Philadelphia, in the Fall, as part of a solo show.

Pictures with Words, Words with Pictures

2009-02-23T19:05:00.003-05:00

Seeing (and leaving) ghost images under images make me happy: it shows progression and history and layers and mystery.

I did not just try to rhyme.

Link.

Duo, Dynamic

2009-02-23T10:43:00.005-05:00

I've been calling this series "Two Tones", but someone told me I need a better name for them. Special ladies are great for that kind of thing. And yes, this one is essentially single color-toned anyway. Comments, of course, are always welcome, in the comments section, below. Even if your comment is "Ron Paul Rulezzz!", or whatever.

Incidentally, anyone remember that animated show "CatDog"? It's one of those shows that I'm thrilled, and bewildered that it ever got produced, for its weirdness quotient, and gives my own silly, oddball concepts hope to find larger audiences. Anyway, this pic has nothing to do with that show. This guy, Peter Hannan, created that show, though. Now he gets to put "Creator of CatDog" on all of the stuff he makes. And then Viacom gets to put their copyright somewhere, too, in case you forgot that Nickelodeon actually aired that show. Contracts, you know?

Anyway, I don't necessarily mind "Two Tones", but it may, in fact, not "pop" very much, it is true. Here's the link.

Ooh, and more:

Werks in Progress/Marching Towards an Uncertain Future (With Snacks):

2009-02-18T20:01:00.006-05:00

A quick detail snapshot of a work-in-progress, most likely for a Philadelphia show in the fall.

Kind of like a British/Japanese thing going on. Insert torrid, imaginative, bodice-ripping book title here.

Hey, why not in the comments? It'll be actual interaction! Submit a title there. Winner gets a...um, well, we'll see. A subscription to Spy Magazine. I don't know, something. I mean it!

Primal Scream Therapy, If You Learned About It from a "Tears for Fears" Song:

2009-02-17T21:55:00.010-05:00

Mood pictures.

Like mood rings, but the interactivity is with your mind, not your body temperature. Spooky! Is that what caused mood rings to change color, your sweat glands? Ew. Beats me. Anyway, this is part of a little series, like a drawing/painting mash-up of sorts.

Babies, man, who needs 'em? Oh, right, the human race. Cool. More info here.

Dear God, Why Isn't It:

2009-02-17T13:46:00.003-05:00

Possibly the first time I've painted Cerveza.

But it won't be the last! Yee-haw (shoots cartoon pistol up in air)!

Linko.