Greetings Art Monkeys!

Dr. Sketchy's Anaheim is proud to bring you the first in a hopefully well received and on going feature for the Dr. Sketchy's organization and Art Community... Model Interviews! Ever wanted to learn more about the models on stage?  Want to know about their personal interests, backgrounds, and activities?  Have you wondered what goes through their minds as they stand (Often naked) in front of a crowded room? Now you can!

Model Interviews will delve into the often seedy, slightly dirty and rarely (but possibly) innocent minds of the Men and Women who have inspired artists during Dr. Sketchy's sessions.  Many of which continue to do so beyond sessions through alternative forms of media and by their simple day to day activities.  So who did we choose for our premiere interview?

Model, Art Director, Metal Slinger, and Physicist (That's right!!!) 

IVY D'MUERTA

Let’s start with the basics.  How did you get started in modeling?

I became a professional model by accident.  I tried fashion modeling when I was 12 but soon fired my Agent because I didn’t want to live with an eating disorder my entire life and ruin my self-esteem and health. (Well, that’s another story and can be checked out on www.deliciousdames.com, a two-part interview on getting bullied and a conquered battle with anorexia.)

But when I was an “adult” my friend was in photography school and asked me if she could take some pinup photos of me.  I only did it to help her out with her class and thought it could be something fun to do.  Little did I know, or else I would not have agreed to do this because I’m actually really shy, would these photos be seen and companies and photographers wanted to know how to contact me and for some odd reason they wanted to pay me to model for them. It went crazy from there and I unexpectedly found my creative outlet and one that I could make a little money from.  I will always be thankful for this.

What lead you into becoming an art model?

My good friend and artist Andrea Young (http://www.andreayoungdesigns.com) inspired me to try it.  She is an artist and watching her work and hearing her tales I decided to give it a try.  I’m a pretty energetic person so I wasn’t sure if I could handle sitting still in some awkward position for so long, but once I tried it I realized it was a perfect time to meditate.  Each session I’ve ever done has always had a good vibe.  I love hearing and feeling the intense silence and creative concentration emanating within the room, and there seems to always be laughter and smiles. 

Is your approach to modeling for an art session different from that of a photoshoot?

Absolutely.  With modeling, each session is completely different.  There’s the photographer, stylists, sets, vibe for what we are creating…  Modeling sessions can be anywhere between 1 hour to 12 hours, even weeklong ordeals.  So much high energy and constant work.  With modeling for an art session, you know exactly what to do and you’re there for these brilliant minds to be inspired and create their interpretations and allow their imaginations to be free.   You have to bring a different mindset, and like I said before I feel I can have a sort of meditative session during this.  I love it though; it’s a more intimate experience.

Do you have any favorite artists?

The list can be limitless.  When I was 7 my two favorite artists were Pablo Picasso and Frank Frazetta.  They are still among my favorite artists, but the names on the list keep growing.  Especially now when so many of the people I meet are artists, I am a fan of so many.  I love the completely different styles people take on their work and expressing themselves.  No piece will ever be the same; nobody can truly duplicate another’s style because it is not that person’s work.  No artist can replicate what they’ve done before because they will be in a different time in their life, with different emotions.  That’s what I love about art and artists, constant evolving and learning.

If you could pick any artist to draw you, who would it be?

Any artist who may feel inspired by me… That will always be an honour.

If you could be on the cover of any magazine, excluding ones you’ve already been on, which one would you pick?

I would really like to break the barriers and be on the cover of Fashion Magazines, I think it’s high time they really got artistic and put tattooed models on their covers.  When I walked for Fashion Week back in 2009 I felt like I broke rules and opened eyes, nobody expected to see a model with a full sleeve of tattoos walk down that runway (Thank you Tristan + Trista!) I saw that Vogue Italia had a cover with a model in a full body of painted on tattoos for their December 2007 issue.  I remember seeing it and how beautifully styled and photographed it was and thinking; “Oh, maybe this will catch on now…” Unfortunately I haven’t seen much more of that with female models with real tattoos, it appears it’s still much more acceptable for men to be tattooed instead of us ladies.  The only magazine work so many of us can get are publishers who want us in our “hand bra” poses and be “fashion” but really, we’re just in our underwear and maybe a necklace. Which is fine, but I’d like to wear crazy outfits and beautiful gowns and break stereotypes. 

Artist - Big Toe

Are there any special locations you’d like to model at?

Yes, I’d love to travel the world and model.  I am inspired by nature and ancient history; if somehow I could incorporate that into my art (modeling) I would be extremely thrilled.  That is something I’ve been working on, I aim to obtain it one day. 

A fun fact many people forget is that you’re a physics dork. So answer this…  

                            RU
                            18    QT π = ?

I am a physics dork, future Astrophysicist! Wait, where’s Google…

How have you taken advantage of your great big set of lobes while working as a model?

Boobie lobes and brain lobes… They go hand in hand.

But(t) really, any aspiring models PAY ATTENTION HERE! Your tig ole bitties will only get so far in modeling; always use that awesome muscle that is in your skull first and foremost.  I’ve seen and heard so many horror stories about girls desperate for their big break that they’ll just put up with anything and the ways they get taken advantage of are awful.  If you are consistent and stick with your true self and what you truly see for yourself, good things will happen.  You need to be strong-minded.

Art and Science are commonly considered separate subjects.  Do have hypothesis as to why?

Yes, because people are known for being dumb. 

No really, I truly feel art and science is not that far off from each other.  Within the scientific community, we keep open minds.  We seek which has not been seen and like to figure out why and how.  If we are proved incorrect, we do not take offense and say, “nuh-uh, I was right at one point and I’m going to still think that way”.  We constantly evolve.  Within the art community, I experienced similar feelings.  Open minds, constant evolving, creating, expanding our minds and educating ourselves. 

To really prove a point here, I recently had the privilege of visiting NASA’s JPL Center in Pasadena, California.  Art and Science was everywhere.  And in one section of a building I was in were three pieces of framed beauties.  In each frame was a Da Vinci sketch of a flying machine, mechanisms, and even a human arm, and next to each was a photograph of a section the Mars Rover that was similar to said sketch.  Art inspires science, and science inspires art.

Who would you want to take a science workshop with? Stephen Hawking , Neil deGrasse Tyson, or Bill Nye?

All three and many more.  Mister Hawking, Mister Tyson and Mister Nye each have my respect and each have something different to offer and educate us with.  I would also like to meet Doctor Michio Kaku, and if I could go back in time I would love to have learned from Cecilia Payne.  If you have not heard of Cecilia Payne, please research her.  She was actually the first human who “discovered” what the Universe is made of.

By the way, did any of you ever watch Beakman’s World on TV? Badabing, badabang, badaboom!

Artist - Dan Almanzar

If you were on the cover of Popular Science, what would your Headline read?

“Tattooed woman makes our brains explode with epic knowledge!”

Just kidding!

I’d like to answer this but in complete honesty, I’ve been working on something that will probably royally piss off the entire religious community of the world. So you’ll see it one day; that I can guarantee. I mean no disrespect to people and what they believe in, (religion, politics, etc.) but I feel it’s high time for higher thinking and less distractions so the human population can excel.

You call yourself a HUGE dork.  Describe a few of your dorkiest attributes.

I’ve been called a huge dork/geek/brainer/nerd my whole life, I don’t care which label I’m pegged with but if it’s something that attributes to my brains and my silliness… I’ll take it.  I just don’t care of opinions of me, there’s no real perfect human.  Every person will have a naysayer.  I have an odd sense of humour and I enjoy things like science, nature, books, music and silly things.  I go with what I like and I have respect for people.  Whether I personally agree with them or not.  I don’t know which attributes of mine are dorky because I really don’t know what I would call dorky in another person.  If you’re into something and it makes you happy, go for it.

Artist - Kelly Castillo

Is there anything else you want people to know about you that you don't think they can initially observe?

To an occasional observer, I’m sure I don’t look like a person who is compassionate and loving, or really shy.  Like I said, I have respect for people even if I do or do not agree with them.  To each their own, but I wish others would have that same philosophy too.  I don’t put up with people talking poorly of others, and I will not spend my time with those who do.  I do not put up with cruel people like that, or those who spread rumors or constantly speak ignorantly, those whom are racist or full of prejudice.  Unacceptable behavior in my opinion, and quite immature.

Have any final words you’d like to conclude with?

Don’t be an asshole and love life! Get outside and enjoy time away from technology once in a while!

Want to see more of Ivy D'Muerta?  

Join her Fan Page and Follow her Tumblr and Twitter

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Photographs Amy Kaplan                          Interview Casey Kwock

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Do you like the new interview feature?  Let us know by leaving a comment here or on our Chapter fan page.  

It was a jolly good time at the Edwardian Ball which took place at the historical Fonda Theater in Los Angeles over the weekend.  Beautiful Ladies and Dapper Gents dressed up in celebration of Edward Gorey.  The Dr. Sketchy's Anaheim group was there along with many of the art models from LA and OC who pose for many of the Southern California Chapters.  It was a fun night that not only inspired new creative ideas amongst artists but help build upon the camaraderie found within the art community and Dr. Sketchy's Chapters.  

Dr. Sketchy's Anaheim plans to return again next year.  Would anyone be interested in an actual art session on-site?  Let's us know!

Rosin Covin - Founders and Music ensemble for the Ball for thirteen years.

An amazing crowd of costumed Edwardian's.

The Doubtful Guest, the ball's finale act.

Who needs Color.  That's so 1800's!

Dr. Sketchy's Anaheim Chapter MC hiding from prying eyes.

Savannah Rose, a regular model for Dr. Sketchy's.

Stephanie Shaw and her Dapper man. New models but fast chapter favorites.

Jennifer Takeda, Dr. Sketchy's artist.

Kelly Castillo, the founder of the Anaheim chapter.

Jenny, Kelly and Katie, Dr. Sketchy's Chapter members.

This Saturday February 23rd, Dr. Sketchy's Anaheim will be attending the annual Edwardian Ball in Los Angeles, CA.  For those who don't know, The Edwardian Ball is an elegant and whimsical extravaganza of costumery, carnival, music, acrobatics, ballroom dancing and fashion; an outrageous celebration of an unforgettable era while honoring Edward Gorey, the prolific master of ominous storytelling.

While not specifically a Dr. Sketchy's event, artists and models from Dr. Sketchy's Chapter across the Nation will be in attendance to participate in the celebration that puts creativity forward and inspires future artistic adventures (and themes for future sessions).  Additional Event, Ticket and photos from the 2013 San Francisco Ball is available below.

THE EDWARDIAN BALL
Presents Edward Gorey’s
“The Doubtful Guest”
At The Fonda Theatre - Los Angeles
Saturday, February 23rd, 2013


LOS ANGELES, CA – Paradox Media and Vau de Vire present the award-winning Edwardian Ball on February 23rd, 2013 at the stunning historic Hollywood 1920’s venue, The Fonda Theatre.  Edwardian Ball co-hosts Rosin Coven and  Vau de Vire Society bring a featured Edward Gorey story to life on stage with original music, theatrical choreography and narration…this year presenting one of his more mischievous, playful masterpieces, “The Doubtful Guest” – a performance interspersed with humor and darkness.  It’s where literary fans are as welcome as Goth clubgoers and where the high-flying trapeze and steam-powered machines create the backdrop for elegantly dressed ballgoers waltzing their way from absinthe to the dance floor.

The talent includes Rosin Coven, Vau de Vire Society, "Belle of the Ball" Jill Tracy, Dark Garden Corsetry Fashion Show, MC Vegas, DJ's Xian (LADEAD), Delachaux, Shakti Bliss, Justin Paul, Lushbunny, Mia Dangerfield, Eric Jag, as well as more acts to be announced.  Plus enjoy Midway Games, Portrait Booth and DJ dancing on the Rooftop Garden. 

Step into a uniquely immersive world, where turn-of-the-century meets world-to-be in a fantastic blend of performance and audience, of sights, sounds, and magic.  One can expect an irreverently elegant blend of theatre, circus, live music, DJs, ballroom dancing, parlour games, steam machinery, aerial performances, obscure props, period technology, games, and fashion shows.  All in attendance are invited to return to a time of well-dressed gentility by creating characters and costumes for the occasion – instilling a madhouse slapdashery of costumery by nearly every single attendee.

Since 1999, The Edwardian Ball has steadily grown from a Bay Area underground club phenomenon into a full-fledged festival of arts and culture, focusing on the esteemed works of the late, great author/illustrator Edward Gorey…bringing his tales to life on stage. Now with the blessing of The Edward Gorey Charitable Trust, the truly prodigious and original artist, Edward St. John Gorey (1925-2000), will be honored for his body of  over 100 works. His legacy includes The Gashlycrumb Tinies, The Iron Tonic and The Wuggly Ump; prize-winning set and costume designs for innumerable theater productions from Cape Cod to Broadway and  a remarkable number of illustrations in publications such as The New Yorker and The New York Times. He also produced illustrations for books by a wide array of authors from Charles Dickens to Edward Lear, Samuel Beckett, John Updike, Virginia Woolf, H.G. Wells, Florence Heide and many others. His well-known animated credits for the PBS Mystery! series have introduced his work to millions of television viewers. Gorey's masterful pen and ink illustrations and his ironic, offbeat humor have brought him critical acclaim and an avid following throughout the world. http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Edward_Gorey

Paradox Media: For over 16 years Paradox Media, owned and operated by Justin Katz, has been producing an eclectic variety of art and music events in the San Francisco Bay Area. These have included festivals such as ArtCar Fest, How Berkeley Can You Be!?, Oakland World Music & Jazz Festival, ArtFest’s Spectra Ball, Mission Bazaar, and Burning Man’s annual SF Decompression; independent theater with Everyday Theatre’s “The Bright River” and nonprofit community events with Epic Arts.  Paradox Media is the exclusive presenter of Rosin Coven, Founders of The Edwardian Ball in 1999. Katz is the bassist for Rosin Coven and a founding member of this unique ensemble. Katz also works for Goldenvoice / AEG Live, producing hundreds of concerts and special events in the San Francisco region at the Warfield Theatre, The Regency Ballroom, festivals, and arena concerts.


Vau de Vire: Founded in 1997 by husband and wife team Shannon and Mike Gaines, the San Francisco-based entertainment company Vau de Vire Society has been titillating crowds around the world with its unique brand of interactive and thematic art, dance and circus events. This avant-cabaret community consists of classically-trained dancers, some of the nation's most acclaimed acrobats, aerial artists, sideshow acts, fire-performers, thespians and beautiful circus freaks. The group has been cross-pollinating genres by collaborating with an eclectic variety of world-renowned musicians and DJs in their creation of original stage shows. Notable recent collaborators include Cirque du Soleil (Corteo), San Francisco Symphony, Bassnectar, The Dresden Dolls, Calvin Harris and The Madd Vibe Orchestra…with live support performances for James Brown, Primus, 50 Cent, Wyclef Jean, Velvet Revolver, The Cure and many other highly respected international artists.  In addition to producing The Edwardian Ball since 2005, Vau de Vire is most widely recognized for their numerous music and arts festival commissions, having curated live-music stages and multi-day variety entertainment amidst their custom built environments.  Past and ongoing festivals include: Outside Lands Festival, Bumbershoot Festival, Download Festival, Symbiosis Gathering, Lightning in a Bottle, Exprescion on Alcatraz, Burning Man and Super Village at Super Bowl '08.   Vau de Vire’s latest creation is the Inner Mission, a 600 seat music, arts and experimental theater located in the heart of San Francisco’s Mission district.  http://www.vaudeviresociety.com


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What: The Edwardian Ball presents Edward Gorey's “The Doubtful Guest” - Presented by: Paradox Media and Vau de Vire

When: Saturday, February 23, 2013 – Doors and Show at 8:00pm – All Ages Welcome

Where: The Fonda Theatre - 6126 Hollywood Boulevard  Los Angeles, CA 90028 (323) 464-0808 or visit http://www.fondatheatre.com/

Tickets: Purchase: http://www.ticketfly.com/purchase/event/181363

GA Tickets: $40
Includes main floor and rooftop Carnival, limited seating on a first-come, first-served basis.

VIP Tickets: $85
Includes all GA access plus admission to seated balcony with cocktail service and prime view of the stage.

VIP Private Booth: $500
Includes private booth with table service on the main floor, up close to stage and dance floor.  One ticket is good for entire booth, up to six admissions, best seats in the house!

For more information and online tickets, please visit http://edwardianball.com and http://facebook.com/edwardianball 
For more information, images, or to set up interviews with the event producers or any of the cast and crew, please contact Karin Conn at 415-507-9797 or karin@connsf.net.

For the second year, artist's traveled near and far for an entire day of goey Nerdgasming goodness.  Stephanie Shaw, Phoebe L'amour, Holly Feather, and Lauren WK took the stage and brought our nerd fantasies to life.  Rogue had more than just a touch of danger, Maleficent proved how far her green goes, Jasmine displayed how hot the desert can be, and Daenerys stood up to coming Winter.  In additon to these lovely Nerd girls (who are true nerds (i.e. Lauren plays DnD in costume <3 ), two guest models/artists joined the fun.   Syc Amore and Fille Mysterieuse, both local artists turned models, helped fill between breaks and costume changes.

Nerdgasm^2 was a huge success.  Even with the rain, we reached Rothick's max capacity and extended our outdoor stage on the spot to accommodate everyone.  Over half of artists were Dr. Sketchy's Virgin's and we look forward to their return in the upcoming year.  

And a special shout out to Wollstone Crafts who created and provided us with Stephanie and Lauren's fantastic outfits.   

Jacket by Wollstone Crafts

Water color by Javier

By Monica Munster

Additonal Photos can be found here and on our FB chapter page.

It's almost time for the return of Nerdgasm to the Rothick Art Haus!

Our special all day figure drawing event is set and ready.  Lauren WK, Holly Feather, Phoebe L'amour, and Stephanie Shaw each prepared custom cosplay outfits that they are excited to show off (and take off) for you art monkeys.

There will be short and long pose sessions throughout the day with a long pose painter friendly session outside after dark.

Register early to guarantee a spot.  Registration is available at the door but will be limited to available space.

Date:
Saturday December 1st, 2012
11am to 10 pm

Cost:
$30 Pre-Pay (Now Closed)
$40 At Door

It's that time again Art Monkeys!

Nerdgasm returns to the Rothick Art Haus!

For those who missed last year, this is a special All Day Figure Drawing Event hosted by the Rothick Art Haus. Join us as various models take the stage dressed as their favorite nerd fantasy characters.

In light of Disney's new acquisition and Rothick's location by the Magic Kingdom, this years theme will be the Sexy Side of Disney.  Our main line up includes Lauren WK, Holly Feather, Phoebe L'amour, and Stephanie Shaw.  With additional models possibly popping in here and there throughout the day.

There will be short and long pose sessions throughout the event Sketch Artists and Painters are encouraged to come!

So reserve your spot early as we bring you a cast of characters to inspire your artistic World of Color.

Date:
Saturday December 1st, 2012
11am to 10 pm

Cost:
$30 Pre-Pay (Now Closed)
$40 At Door

If there's somethin' strange in your neighborhood, who you gonna call?  Phoebe Lamour!

An Anaheim chapter favorite, Phoebe will be 'bustin ghosts at the Rothick Art Haus this Sunday during downtown's Monstoberfest weekend.  While the creatures of the night are on the prowl, 'bust out your art packs and show us that you aint afraid of no ghosts.

Time:

Sunday October 14th

7 pm to 10 pm

Location:

Rothick Art Haus

170 S Harbor Blvd.

Anaheim, CA 92805

$10 Online Prepay

$12 At the Door.

Do you have plans to attend the 39th International SIGGRAPH conference in Los Angeles?  Even if you aren't, you are invited to attend a special Dr. Sketchys session.  In conjuction with the SIGGRAPH Volunteer committee, the Anaheim Chapter with permission from the LA Chapter will present an Introduction to Dr. Sketchys session at this year's conference.  Directed toward Student Volunteers and Dr. Sketchy's virgins, the session will start with a discussion about the organization followed by an open Figure Drawing Session. 

Stay for the whole time or just come by for a few poses as a way to take a break from the conference. Student Volunteers have priority but everyone is welcome to attend.

Location:

Los Angeles Convention Center 

Student Volunteer Room

2pm - 5 pm

We continue our month of Ink-N-Iron as Internationally published Model (and Pin-Up Pageant Judge) Ivy D'Muerta takes the Rothick Art Haus stage.    

Time:

Sunday May 27th

7 pm to 10 pm

Location:

Rothick Art Haus

170 S Harbor Blvd.

Anaheim, CA 92805

$10 Online Prepay

$12 At the Door.

Megan Renee roared into town revving up the inspirational horse power.  All could see how this sharp beauty earned her place in the Ink-n-Iron pageant.  But although she won the hearts of many art monkeys, the race is not over yet.  

One thing is for certain though.  She'll be back.

Additional photos here and on our FB page here