Galerie de Maubidea

Preface: The Devil and Don Greene

2012-01-22T13:28:00.005-05:00

*****

Hidden Cabin: Birnam Wood... Macbeth

From the first moment we met… I knew that my artistic relationship with this charismatic over-achiever was going to be unique

He was musically intuitive (couldn’t read a note),

had never played an instrument and possessed the uncanny ability to paint mental pictures with words

Artistically speaking, Don was fearless and unrelenting…

and lived his Life in much the same manner

He was a natural leader and loved taking charge. His years of excellence in both Hotel Management and the Broadcast Industry, are but a few examples of his impressive talents

Perhaps one of his greatest qualities,
lie in Don’s determination… because once he set his sights on something, no entity in the universe or natural disaster could ever deter him from reaching that goal

To say he was an enigmatic personality, all-encompassing and sometimes confusing would be an understatement…

Donnie could be both gentile and understanding while remaining cold and distant, more often than not (respectfully speaking) brutally honest and self-deprecating in the same conversation

These characteristics which I believe in part,
were due to his cynical overview of the world as observed

A larger than Life sort of guy in the truest sense-

Often times perversely witty- and had a constant aura of energy
that seemed to attract (and influence) most people

The attitude behind his words were like a double edge switchblade and cut both ways simultaneously-

As a poet and performer,

he would snarl, whine and growl at the audience...

Could spit out verse like a toothless - $10 crack-ho on a Jones!

And in the aftermath...

make you believe that every word was part of a gospel

Ron Maubidea

The Devil and Don Greene

2012-01-22T12:36:00.006-05:00

*****

Blue Mango Garden - Udine

On January 11th, I received an email informing me

that my best friend for over fifteen years had passed away-

We lost touch sometime back in 04’ when life in the Big City began to get complicated

It was the mid to late 1980’s when I first met Don Greene. I was working in Cable Television when an ad was placed in the Village Voice reading, Electronic Musician (that would be me) seeks similar or opposite for compilation recording. Send demo tapes to...

A few days later, the music of Verbal Drama

was being pumped though the studio

His music was a mix of Punk and “Socially Conscious” high energy New Wave. That was the beginning of a long friendship, an artistic collaboration and thousands of unforgettable moments

A Few Select Memories

Re: The Santa Cruz video…

Not exactly MTV quality (replete with photo montage and hi-end special effects) but a rather whimsical, moody vehicle

for an elegant song written by Don Greene and Billy Cote

Re: The Stone Pony performance with Hole

Our friend's band (Madder Rose) with Mary Brett Lorson and BIlly Cote had just left the stage… Courtney Love was standing off to my left holding her baby and looking rather annoyed-

Where’s the MC, she asked… where’s the fuc*in MC!!

She then passed the kid to her nanny and took off in a huff-

This place is run like sh*t someone declared and under the circumstances, I couldn’t have agreed more

I ain’t goin’ on that stage without an introduction, Courtney grumbled… LIKE NO FU*KIN’ WAY

That’s when Donnie turned to me with a peculiar look in his eye and I started to laugh. At this point, the energy between us was kinetic

He then raised an eyebrow, did a complete about-face and took off for the stage like a soldier on a mission

He made no announcement nor did he ask-

just did what had to be done in typical Don Greene fashion

Without hesitation he grabbed the mic and shouted,

YOU PEOPLE WANNA HEAR MORE MUSIC?

The audience went crazy… I CAN’T FUC*IN HEAR YOU, Don repeated

IF YOU WANNA HEAR MORE FUC*IN MUSIC…

MAKE SOME FUC*IN NOIIIIIIIIISE and the place lit up

like a terrorist in Baghdad

Body parts (metaphorically speaking) were flying everywhere!

The guy next to me… got hit in the face with a bloody lung or maybe a bottle of beer (still undetermined)

The show was one of those “Outdoor - Indoor” events. There were people shimmying up the poles that supported the tent

to get a better look at the stage…

After all, we were in New Jersey and this sort of behavior was generally expected from the locals. Have you even seen the Jersey Shore… my point exactly (no disrespect intended)

Somewhere amidst the mayhem,

Hole took the stage and Donnie returned to Earth

How’d I look up there… do you think anyone heard me (laughing)

You were great man… absolutely great!

We later heard that the missing MC was discovered “nursing a nod” in one of the dressing rooms. Or maybe found dead… face down,

drowned in a toilet and I don’t recall which

But it is sometimes hard to remember all the little things

that make some Rock Concerts so memorable, considering…

Re: The Witch Hunt video story-

Cinéma Vérité at its most challenging and as they say in Brooklyn,

If you got the stones for it… go for it and if not, get out of my face! To be posted at a later date…

Re: Letters to Serial Killers by Don Greene

What I recall most was a cold winter afternoon…
I had stopped by Don’s apartment to play catch-up when he handed me a half dozen letters

What are these I asked? It’s the beginning of my correspondence with serial killers; you may recognize one of the names-

This guy is famous, but why are you writing to these people? I have a new book project in mind… what do you think? I think it’s strange and possibly dangerous… a unique concept indeed

This one is from a gang member on Death Row. He seems pretty cool about the idea of a book and doesn’t mind me sharing his thoughts with the world. Why is he on Death Row, I inquired?

He kills people for the gang, I guess he’s a Hit Man

Don, I really don’t think this is cool at all. The guy is a contract killer… and that is “uncool”

Don: You know what really gets this cat off… killing cops

But before he shoots them or however he decides to kill them,

he slowly humiliates them in the most heinous ways imaginable…

and loves doing it!

Ron: On second thought, I think you should drop the whole idea

There are other books you can write that are safer and can offer a more constructive reading experience

That’s when Don’s phone rang...

It was the serial killers mother (Mama), and she was asking Don to send her some money. It was never clear what sort of deal Donnie struck with her son regarding his part of the book

Apparently, there were favors being dealt from a West Coast prison to New York’s Rikers Island and my boy was smack in the middle of it

Here Ron (handing me the phone)… she wants to speak with you

What do you mean; she wants to speak to me?

She asked to speak to Ron, that’s you

Yeah... but how does she know my name?
I told her about you, and she knows that we’re close friends…

- As a Final Thought -

Gang members, their affiliations and relatives are simply everywhere… and in every city and state. From the supermarket to the Post Office, the Internal Revenue Service, Social Security and in every branch of government including the military

They are patient and methodical and can track a person… anywhere, which may include International travel

From a former address… a place of work, the names of friends and family etc. I say this because one day after the fact… SK’s Mama found me just to say hello, and my phone was unlisted

For those of a different mindset…

if you search long enough for trouble, it will find you and that’s a fact

To some readers…
the idea of writing letters to serial killers may seem a bit odd if not terrifying, but to someone the likes of Don Greene-

It was a stroll thorugh the gardens of a Countryside Manor,

serving tea with crumpets at four

To be lovingly continued… R.I.P. my Dearest Friend Don

Cassandra Landau - Gallery Coordinator

Color Phasing: A Step Forward in Digital Art

2011-12-27T22:10:00.095-05:00

*****
The term “color phase” as it pertains to Abstract Automatism

and digital painting, seemed an appropriate reference in terms of its similarities to Audio Phase Shifting

Audio Phase Shifting defined...
http://www.geofex.com/article_folders/phasers/phase.html

In this instance... I was calibrating the color yellow as it relates to brown and green

After enlarging a small section of the painting
a peculiar texture emerged

Surface Treatment: A

Surface Treatment: B

It was a texture not unlike, (and in combination with other enhancements) a magnified view of human skin with characteristic patterns. It was also reminiscent of aging oil paints

Clearly, the above image does not resemble skin in the classic sense It does however; contain an organic architecture often found, when observing samples under a microscope

* * *

No Special Effects were used in the Making of this Image

Cassandra Landau - Gallery Coordinator

Of Special Note

2011-12-13T06:51:00.018-05:00

A Tribute
to the People and Organizations who provide and train

Special Dogs for Special Needs Children

Anya - Dog Trainer

Although the portrait of Anya is not that of an actual person
it symbolizes the Dedication and Purpose by those whose daily activities are focused on others... far less fortunate

To the Men, Women and Children
suffering from debilitating handicaps

PBS has painted an extraordinarily touching view
of the People and Dogs, whose lives have been transformed
due to the loving efforts... by those who care

Through a Dog's Eyes

a PBS Special Presentation

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DB0QM_bLd1I

Saint Lei Revisited

2011-12-10T14:28:00.092-05:00

In regard to a recent question: How do you make people from different ethnic backgrounds look different?

Saint Lei

Thank you Silvia Lopez for the insightful comment
and yes...the image on the right, draws on ancient religious roots

CHANGING NATURAL FEATURES AND APPEARANCE
At near completion, I abandoned the portrait (left frame) of an African American as she began to look strikingly... like Kim K

Changes included that to the subject's complexion, elongating a wide flat nose and a complete reconstruction to the eyes, mouth and general expression

What started out as a tight lipped... large round face, was rapidly becoming cliche. The image (although incomplete), was then uploaded to Photoshop for an aesthetic re-make

Now thinking...15th Century Russia / Eastern Europe Religious portraits with Iconic sensibilities and Stoic expressions

Historic References and Resource Link

The Russian Orthodox Church: Early History and Art
http://www.cs.toronto.edu/~mes/russia/moscow/history.html

Cassandra Landau - Gallery Coordinator

Nearscapes... et le Tube de Jésus

2011-11-30T09:04:00.052-05:00

Transcription and Text: Henri Abideau

Contributing Editor

* After reviewing about twenty photographs, I have chosen

three to help define the Nearscape as a conceptual point of view

On A Clear Night

Nearscapes... are essentially the nondescript structures we pass momentarily on the way to other places

They are sometimes off to the side of a road or in the

maintenance area of a municipal building, tunnel etc

I can best describe some of them as a series of aging Control Panels

slathered in protective paints- often attached or suspended from corroding structures of steel and concrete

Basically, it is a cluster of practical time-proven technologies on its last leg of functionality... just prior to an upgrade or replacement but not necessarily -

* How do these images relate to the new series of photographs going on display at the Galerie?

They are exploratory steps in an uncertain direction... each of them having components of an engineering or industrial nature

Structures that contribute to a particular emotional color (not a literal color), in terms of how we might perceive... or interpret this type of technological environment

The Motorman

* There's a noticeable difference in the composition of some of these photos. The Jesus Tube for example, seems to be lacking a central theme... was that deliberate and what is the Jesus Tube?

Yes... the image lacks a certain focal point and is basically a one dimensional backdrop for a recent collage

What is does have- is a fair number of planes and right angles, perfect for inserting photo elements needed to create a visual dialogue and story-line

The term Jesus Tube originated in a New York Subway... more accurately, after taping a music video called Lorraine in the bathroom of my studio at the Ruxton on 72nd Street

Le Tube de Jésus

État Corrosif de Béton et d'Acier

A number of the scenes were shot using a lens that had a tunnel effect when zooming out. I think it was the death scene with Gilda dans la baignoire, that brought the concept home

"As the actress was taking her last cinematic breath, smoke was being pumped into this confined area. When the camera pulled back, it created a tunnel-like pin hole effect that captured the moment"

We then cut to a series of flashbacks and peppered the scene with close-ups of Don's performance while fading out

During the playback... we stood captivated by the woman with a shaved head, as she gracefully departed. That, and the soft colored clouds embracing her body- sealed the day's production

I believe it was Don (a songwriting partner) who referred to the final scene as, Gilda in the Jesus Tube... and thus it remained

Catherine G
Featured Photographer and Visual Artist

Certain Days Go From Top to Bottom

As a Multimedia Author living in France
Catherine specializes in Visual Analysis and Infographics
Her articles contribute to Newspaper, Magazines and Radio

Additional Credits
Lorraine: performed by Morphine Sally
Music and Lyrics
Don Greene and Bill Cote (Madder Rose, Saint Low, Jazz Canon)

Cassandra Landau - Gallery Coordinator

HOLIDAY GREETINGS

2011-11-24T12:04:00.000-05:00

The People Who Truly Care, Are Never Too Far Away

To another year of Life... Good Friends and Family

Best Wishes to all... HAPPY THANKSGIVING

Galerie de Maubidea

December Gallery Events

2011-11-21T00:40:00.043-05:00

For the New Year... Galerie de Maubidea

will be undergoing a complete overhaul of content and theme

FEATURING

Dialogues In Architecture

A new series of Photographs and Automatist Digital Sculpture

Rebarbative Coexistence (redux)

Herrschaft der Palisades
- Dominion on the Palisades -

Gated Metropolis

Ron Maubidea
Photography
(c) 2011 All Rights Reserved

Cassandra Landau - Gallery Coordinator

Gallery Mail Room - Resources

2011-11-19T09:54:00.069-05:00

Inverted Statue of Kate Moss

Facebook Virus Update

A recent issue: Obama Youtube Video
DO NOT ACCEPT ANYTHING FROM A FACEBOOK FRIEND ASKING YOU TO VIEW THIS VIDEO Confirmed by...Kaspersky, Symantec,
Snopes.com etc, it is a Trojan Virus called KOOBFACE

Facebook Solution For Virus Removal

Step 1 - Click on Account

Step 2 - Click Application Settings (showing all your apps)

Step 3 - Click the blue X to remove the application (according to Fb)

Re: Hounds

The main character reads like a cliché with a troubled mind – Gabby

What about him and Jolene at the trailer park… Stephanzie

Now I’m stuck… it was very bad choice (anonymous)

@ la Lettera: Stay chill… conditions will get better, Ron

Situation Wanted

@ Regina: Emotionally tormented woman seeking similar to cohabit and share expenses

Re: Steel Wheels

Love this… Rust Belt Industrial is one of my favorite subjects-
Hey, remember the bistro pumpernickel stuffed with ratatouille you created as our first vegetarian dish at the Library Restaurant? We must have sold 30 a night… Michael

Ron: Yes… do you recall the $20 bill Caroline Kennedy sent back to the kitchen for a fire hazard called, Flaming Ginger Duck w/hot peach and kumquat dressing? What about that reunion?

happy monday… and tell them pizza is not a vegetable!!! Petra :*

http://washington.cbslocal.com/2011/11/16/eat-your-veggies-congress-wants-to-classify-pizza-as-vegetable

@ Ron: What’s this Contributors Only business…!! Audrey
@ Audrey- It’s more of a workshop... and you have to add something to the dialogue
@ Ron: I can yodel and scream pretty loud? : )

your menus make me Smile… Ray

Poetic Ramblings… by ikye and Regina

Charles Bukowski: Born Into This (NATO PER ESSERE) 1972

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OApPW7QxgD4

Suzanne Horowitz - Publicist

Shades of the Autumn Moon

2011-11-17T15:33:00.168-05:00

Substream - November
The Evening Walkabout 1:AM

Stages

Understanding Why Colors Change

During the winter months, there is not enough sunlight or water
for proper Photosynthesis. The trees will rest, and live off the food
they stored during the summer weather

Shortly after... they begin to shut down their food-making process
and as a result, the Green chlorophyll disappears from the leaves

As the rich greenery starts to fade
we then see the various shades of Yellow and Orange

Please Note
Small amounts of these colors have been present
in the leaves all along. We can't see them during the summer,
because they are masked by the abundance of Green chlorophyll

In some trees like the Maple,
glucose is trapped in the leaf after the photosynthesis stops
Sunlight and the cooler weather, cause the leaves to turn the glucose... into a reddish color

Brown... in trees like the Oak, is made from plant food waste
and is due in part, to the lack of nutrients in the autumn soil

It is the combination of all these factors
that contribute to the beautiful colors of the Fall Season yearly

Landscape in Silhouette

Autumn Landscape Reconfigured

Ron Maubidea

Suzanne Horowitz

EDITORIAL and PROJECT MANAGER

Cassandra Landau
Gallery Coordinator

November Substream: New Additions

2011-11-16T11:30:00.018-05:00

*****

On The Wire

Avian Unemployment Line

Quid Pro Quo and the Exodus

Memories of Forgotten Towns

Der Abend Walkabout 3:AM

Photography: Ron Maubidea

Gallery Mail Room

To be Uploaded shortly

Sucking-Up to the Rhetoric

2011-11-10T09:41:00.038-05:00

Privacy and the Internet

Shortly after reviewing a few links on a subject of concern to many,

I found the previews of an interview with Facebook CEO and Founder Mark Zuckerberg anything but enlightening

I am certain that in real life Mr. Zuckerberg is probably a very decent person, but his views no longer represent that of the average person. In short, his perspective was Big Business as usual while ignoring the probable solutions. Is the rhetoric of Mega Corporations finally the New Status Quo?

An Open Letter to Suzanne Horowitz

Quite simply Dear Friend, I find him somewhat annoying...

In regard to the Companies who Steal our Personal Information -

Have you ever noticed how many times Farmville will ask to store some things on your system, to make the game run faster?

The speed of an app is not determined by dumping whatever’s on your computer- it is determined by the speed of the processor and the amount of available RAM

By clicking YES, you allow the program access to the Hard Drive. Every time you play the game, a link installed by the app maker becomes active... and opens a dialogue between the program and your personal computer

If you listen to the Fb CEO (the video you sent)... he talks about Google, Yahoo and Microsoft, taking certain info off your Hard Drive. This shows them where you go and what you like, how much time you spend there in addition to Personal Information e.g.,

A) How a person uses their computer (very important)

B) The amount of time you spend on it, saving them billions in out-sourced Market Research

C) Most important to remember... the Open Door command was built into the software (a euphemism)

Historically… the above mentioned have been doing this from the beginning, the onset of the World Wide Web

One reason users became aware of the process, was because software techs (understanding the value of an open link) began to speak out, publishing articles on foreseeable privacy issues

Topics ranged from... potential or deliberate intrusions, spying, the loss of Intellectual Properties and so on

In essence... and in regard to these industry giants- they are All harvesting little bits of your Life and that includes Fb

Mark Zuckerberg refers to the relationship between these companies as a Partnership

That partnership allows for a Live and Let Live understanding between the largest information gatherers on the planet and they are talking about, forward considerations into the next decade-

The only obstacle between them and our personal privacy, are the Laws that govern the Internet and few exist actively for that purpose

Curiously enough, all of these companies have Lobbyists in Washington pouring millions into the champagnes (I don’t like the term pockets) of those who write the Laws in their favor

As long as this continues... (and it will continue), as Prosperity is the foundation of Modern Capitalism- i.e., to make an offer they can't refuse, that, or until Internet Legislation sets a limit to what person or persons unknown... can remove from our computers

I think it's time to start closing the Door... don't you?

Interview excerpt with Charlie Rose: http://www.youtube.com/watch?feature=player_embedded&v=KQlPCflWP9k
Huffington Post article with Mark Zuckerberg: Google and Microsoft Are Violating Your Privacy, Not Us http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2011/11/07/facebook-ceo-mark-zuckerberg_n_1080663.html?ref=technology&icid=maing-grid10

Hurricane Survivor

2011-11-10T06:14:00.010-05:00

Substream - November

Silhouette... points of light
for Little Dragon

Le Gymnaste: Relèvement de la Barre

Gallery Mail Room to follow shortly

Rust Belt Industrial... Steel Wheels

2011-11-03T14:40:00.003-04:00

Special Purpose Trains 2010-11

Steel Wheel Power Converters- LIRR

Detailed... HIgh Contrast B&W

Massive Hydraulics for Track Replacement - LIRR

Photography: Ron Maubidea

(c) 2011 All Rights Reserved

Cassandra Landau - Gallery Coordinator

Infra-Blue by Ron Maubidea

2011-10-31T20:13:00.059-04:00

* * * * *

Technically Speaking... a Working Definition

The term Infra-blue is not a recognized color, nor does it exist on Google or in any book of reference. It is for that reason, I have elected to use it in these works to describe a digital shade of Navy Blue (thus-far unnamed) having peculiar iridescent properties... to be continued

__________________________________

Ghosts of Shadow and Form

2011-10-30T12:14:00.003-04:00

*****

Distressed Wooden Structures

Arch Reconstruction - Perspective A

Arch Reconstruction - Perspective B

Work Site

The kitchen at Berlanda Chateau 2010

(an abstract rendering)

Photography: Ron Maubidea

Cassandra Landau - Gallery Coordinator

Reflections of the Heartland

2011-10-29T00:45:00.003-04:00

*****

Vortex in (not so rural) Connecticut... a Still Life

Emulating shades of Ancient Chinese Yellow and Brown

Photography and Photoshop
Ron Maubidea

Cigarettes and Hot Coffee

2011-10-27T12:03:00.045-04:00

Sunday Blues: Winter Windows 2010

Photography by Ron Maubidea

*****
The way you mix color and style!! ;)
Mein doppelganger arbeitet nicht zusammen... Nabila
Pigs pussy and colt 45 rocks... sikK

To the allure of the confident and unavailable...
Uber Cathy

Hounds- maybe the best I read on the subject... JS
If I buy da food will ya cook for me... say yes !!
@ Ron.. re-blogging this now, Wiski

Arno: Do you remember the chef saying
I'm surrounded by MORONS- the jerk is still there!
@ Arno- Yes, and thank you for the hit in the Philippines

Re: March of the Toopid Bastardo's

Toopid bastardo's- all of them... ah hahaha- Georgia Rhu

Cassandra Landau - Gallery Coordinator

Deconstruction of Infra Blue

2011-10-26T04:02:00.035-04:00

New Arrivals for October

Industrial Sky: Lullaby in Concrete

Lullaby in Concrete is more of an example, and not a finished piece We chose to post it as a remedy to certain reader questions

Basically... it reflects an an early stage in building an image, prior to any cleanup and began with a photo template in Photoshop CS

The image demonstrates the stark contrast between background colors (black and infra-blue), that… against the yellow and greens

White and gray were added to create a foreground dimensional effect. It then became a focal point (due to the lightness) and depending on one’s preferences, the starting point for exploring an image

Conversations with Henri Abideau (excerpt)

Monologue in a Vacuum

The above image is a Horizontal Reversal of Industrial Sky. It was then Inverted for the purpose of experimenting with color options I rarely use for this style

Like the first image in this post, it too is a rough and has not been altered in terms of any sculpting or cut and paste

The Inverting process added a textural quality which eliminated most of the touching-up - something to consider for Digital Abstracts

Off the Grid: Inserts

*****

Graffiti Interruptus (Detail 1)

Graffiti Interruptus (Detail 2)

Cassandra Landau - Gallery Coordinator

Progressing From Origins

2011-10-23T20:50:00.016-04:00

The zero point in this demonstration begins with a simple photo of concrete slabs. This material is now the preferred replacement for aging Rail Road Tracks

Fig 1

Casts of Pre-stressed Concrete line the street
and have replaced the traditional Wooden Sleepers

Fig 2

A change in perspective

Fig 3

It was an image of 3rd Century BC, Chinese Terracotta Warriors

I had in mind when taking the photos in Fig 1-2

Fig 4

Offsetting the absolute symmetry

Fig 5

Reworking the image into a rough

Fig 6

Which evolved into this... Perspective A

Fig 7
Taking the image in a different direction... Perspective B

Dialogues in Architecture
Overture in Pastels... Fig 6

The Iron Hand - Chechnya (Чечня́) Revisited, Fig 7

Appetites and Hunger

2011-10-22T16:51:00.003-04:00

Cover Art and Working Theme

Possibilités Culinaires - Inclinations Sensuelles

A series of Meditations... by Ron Maubidea

French Translation: Henri Abidaux

Ode to Man Ray

2011-10-21T11:55:00.002-04:00

End of the Line

Subtitle

An Illogical Attempt at Pointless Emulation or-

The Absurdity of Digital Posturing in the 21st Century

Merci Catherine et Hiro

Suzanne Horowitz - Publicist

3 Bodies 4 Hands and 2½ Working Brains

2011-10-20T13:46:00.015-04:00

Art should be fun… and at times,

collaboration will kick it up a notch and why not!

Psychedelic Party Girl (60’s style), was one such effort

by Ron, ikye and Regina Queens

Papua New Guinea... I think not

The result of a visit to the amazing Bronx Zoo sometime back

After a very pleasant brunch (and quite a few cocktails)

we jumped into the bush, went Native and started snapping pics

Gallery Mail Room to follow shortly

For the latest updates and Gallery News

join us on the blog and become a Friend of the Gallery

Cassandra Landau - Gallery Coordinator

2011-10-17T00:43:00.000-04:00

From the Collection

Thelonious Thrombosis de la Diagnosis

Of The Sea - Worthy or Not

Rotting Onboard Tech

Amping the Grayscale to full Battleship

Dry Dock Color Experiment ll

Image Reversal... a la Caribbean

Rusting Crab Trap in Disrepair

Location: Woodcleft Avenue

Freeport New York 2010

Photography and Editing

2011-10-15T01:23:00.044-04:00

The Classic Feminine: State of Visual Flawlessness

by Ron Maubidea

Since the beginning of time... women have

always possessed the power of Change and Evolution

They are the guardians of Life and Human Emotion

- Thoughts on Prehistory -

Revising text... our apologies for any inconvenience

Photo Credits: Nana Thurler

Literary News: Readership Tops 135,000

2011-10-14T09:17:00.002-04:00

Happy KOMATSU

Industrial Equipment series and collection

The Ring... an interpretation

Model: Stella

Gallery Mail Room

- Curious comments and feedback -

A note from ikye and Regina

To all the fans... thanks for everything-

your letters and support are amazing to see

WE LOVE YOU ALL

*****

Here is way better then the Voice... anonymous

Stella is INCREDIBLE... the new wave of AA

is Fb the new galerie... where is the new page?

Naomi and Jack: incredible difference, maybe...

why isn't any of this on your website, where are the new paintings

888: best I read in a long time,

bravo to Hounds and you actually stopped smoking . . .

No Namm... it supposed to be private internet club, right?

@ Ron: this one is deep and for the occasional tweak, thanks again Mira xxx

Cecil... that was/she is so geeky HOTT!!!

Anonymous: I hope she sues her fat ass... FUB deserves what she got

Back again: why waste time snapping food- here needs more sculpture ; )

Ghostly Flowers

2011-10-02T14:23:00.006-04:00

Une Armature - Perspectives Jumelles

Fig.1

Pond Grove Hydroponics (vue élégante)

Fig.2

Spore Cluster and Micro Buds

(détails fins)

Photography and Editing... by Ron Maubidea
Cassandra Landau - Gallery Coordinator

Dialogues in Architecture

2011-09-29T11:14:00.067-04:00

Chechnya Чечня́ Revisited

Dialogue One... The Iron Hand

Dialogue Two... Overture in Pastels
by Ron Maubidea 2010

Gallery Mail Room Sept-Oct 2011

*****
Dejra... Ikye where are you???
AMTRAK passenger Scott...
Found it boring but couldn't stop reading, so I guess it good

T Karr... I went on Fb and it says private, advise pls
Wade... You should get paid for bringing people there, yes?
(re. Ron's departure from backpage.com)

Christina: I like it... a mix of old commie prop and Jap ani,
a new website for Regina and ikye... where?

Malice... high and dry w/o you, LOVE the new site xoxoxo
Tw13... ok I'll help out, but no bathrooms !!
----------------
Stephanzie... I want to have your babies ;-)
Love the macro painting effect in the landscapes,
just amazing... Jens

Reggiano-Emilia… et Bon Appétit

2011-09-23T10:39:00.003-04:00

Potage of Grilled Zucchini, Mushrooms and White Bean w/thyme

Inspired by the cuisine of Northern Italy / Mediterranean Region

Ron's Dinner Menu

for a casual evening with friends

Soup: Potage Reggiano-Emilia (photo)

Pan-seared Breast of Ginger Duck

Maple-glazed Fresh Rosemary Sausage

Spiked Orange Segments a la Russe

Assorted Cheeses, Wild Berries and Melon

Hand-made Chocolate Bon Bons and Espresso

***

Mail Room Feedback... to be uploaded

Cassandra Landau - Gallery Coordinator

Tingting's Bird Sanctuary

2011-09-21T16:39:00.008-04:00

Simulated Rock Face and Cherry Blossoms

Before photo

Phase One... in a new series of Landscape portraits

The collection will focus on the redesign of neglected Salt Water

Canals on Long Island

It's purpose is future-forward, in the hope of rehabilitating the
environment for endangered species and other Natural Wildlife

Suzanne Horowitz - Publicist

Pedestals and Re-Portraits

2011-09-16T10:46:00.057-04:00

Poet~Provocateur... Regina Queens

Alexiss... Éraflure et Pâte

Pressed Against the Glass... Saint Lei

Cassandra Landau - Gallery Coordinator

Gallery Mail Room - August

2011-09-05T22:33:00.010-04:00

A note from ikye and Regina

To all the fans... we are presently building a new website,

FREE of gorilla advertising and policy restrictions

Words alone cannot express how much we appreciated your
continued readership, over the past year

******

Recent Mail . . .
@ Regina: I love the way she talks... Kylie
William Uk says... This is brilliant in a strange way

@ ikye: my kind of girl... Chidra
David... loved reading you
Erika & Ray: you spilled foie gras worng you idots!

Debora: stay in touch, my email is . . .
Mel & Pia - we should all go out for drinks ;) ;)
SV... you are invited to the World is Beautiful competition
Natalia - best ending ever, I love you both
Jeanie... more croissants and coffee pleeeese!

Re: Tribal Life - ADS Exercise 7
Tw13... wtf is homanoid, why does it have a vision?
Jeffery... Hominoids- removed when they started to hurt

SV - The First Edition sounds fine... moloko too!

@ Ron... Hopelessly Committed, can I use it in my profile?
@ ST - Absolutely... and enjoy

Cassandra Landau - Gallery Coordinator
Photo credits: N.Wojciechowska and Bartek Snieciński

Girl Under the Bridge

2011-08-31T10:58:00.002-04:00

Description to follow shortly...

Cassandra Landau - Gallery Coordinator

The Final Page... et adieu

2011-08-25T10:10:00.026-04:00

Untitled Nude: Keisha

Transcription © Suzanne Horowitz 2011
Recounting August 20-21

It was about 1: AM west coast time when the phone rang...

I’ve decided to abandon the writing project at backpage.com, said a familiar voice. I don’t understand, the material seems to attract thousands of readers each month- why would you stop now?

Go to the site online and see it for yourself. So I did... and omg!

This is a losing battle and I have no control... when stuff like this happens, it bothers the hell out of me

What Ron is referring to was the onslaught of weekend advertisers, companies that post everything from Indonesian farm equipment to XXX movies in the Arts and Entertainment Forum

There are body parts- private parts all over the page and I can’t do a damn thing about it

Historically speaking, the Village Voice has always had a reputation for being a Liberal, open-minded publication and over time... has faithfully supported the communities they represent

It was a great run for what it was. I met some new people, made

a number of contacts and shared experiences that otherwise would never have occurred

Aesthetically, I’m not opposed to tasteless X-rated movies; many

of them are quite funny. I'm saying, there is a time and place for this type of entertainment. But when someone (metaphorically) nails an image to your forehead, I think it’s time to respectfully step back and bid the audience adieu...

It’s really more the fact these ads are posted- then re-posted again and again… one on top of the other, 4, 5, 6, times in a row

Some of the ads have as many as 20 links listed in columns. When other advertisers see this (and get away with it), the event becomes a feeding frenzy- a Race for Space

In short, they are disrespectful to all parties concerned... and an offense to fair play and balance

After more than a year and 135,000 readers later... what do you think you'll take away from this experience?

Before getting to that, I have to add one thing. While all this was going on, Regina (one of the co-authors) sent a memo the Voice editor as we have done in the past. She then went to the other article and noticed the same abuse, prompting a 2nd report

Bear in mind, this was happening on Saturday and Sunday...

and the Voice (while working with a weekend staff) was probably overwhelmed by all the activity.

I believe in the editor's haste to remove the offensive material, they mistakenly clicked on her link and banned Regina!

She then followed a link to an explanation that stated something to the effect, You have been banned for a period of one week etc etc., this was absolutely CRAZY!

Ok... so mistakes were made, but none of this has anything to do with my decision to move on

You still haven't answered my last question . . .

Unlike all of the other posts in that forum... the format (setup) for the two main articles was unique. It didn't start out that way and

it wasn't planned, the layout and the dialogues merely evolved

In that... and aside from any formal statements, the space became a platform for launching social satires and new works of art

It also acted as a mediator and Help Guide, for those who shared negative Internet experiences... and much more

Summary of Articles

1- An Open Letter: To He, that shall remain nameless

(a commentary on premature political forecasting)

2- Silent Manifesto

The Pathetic Yelpings of a Delusional Misogynist
3- Pygmy Surf-Nazi's Invade Croatia

4- Ron Maubidea Interview

5- Farmville: Subliminal Time Bomb or Cultural Blight

6- Sabertooth Willie: The Psychedelic Gerbil

7- I Had a Dream

8- Death over Rehab: The Final Solution

9- Momo le Homo: Butt Bandit from Zanzibar

10- East Village Art Show - August 2010

11- Galerie de Maubidea is Open for Business

12- Ron Maubidea - Abstract Automatism

The articles, An Open Letter (To He, etc) and Silent Manifesto remained the leading "5 Star Posts" in the Village Voice, Arts
and Entertainment Forum (page 1) for over six months

Of the more than 135,000 readers nationwide, they accounted
for 120,000 plus... to be continued

Automatist Digital Sculpture: Exercise 7

2011-07-25T15:13:00.062-04:00

Tribal Life

A visual essay on primitive culture,
Totems and bare-ass living on the open plains

Clearly, the image in Step 1 has little to do with Hunter Gatherer's,
or the evolutionary redirection by early man toward agriculture and the farming of animals

It does however represent the beginnings of color and form,
as it pertains to Abstract Automatism and the subconscious development of imagery and theme

Step 1

For the purpose of the exercise, an existing image was modified

Step 2 - Colorize using pastels

In this manner, you are not committed to permanent color intensity

Step 3 - Mirroring the image

Step 4 - Enhance

Step 5
Image redefined (sculpted), to include the symbolism of a Totem

Step 6

The addition of human-like figures and flora

Step 7

Creating the Hominoid with a vision... and general enhancements

Step 8
Concept review and touchups

Step 9

The final image… Tribal Life
(c) 2011 Ron Maubidea - All Rights Reserved

Cassandra Landau - Gallery Coordinator

Masks: The Seduction of Eloise

2011-07-19T14:28:00.009-04:00

La Séduction d'Eloise
Genre: Automatist Digital Sculpture

Statue Attentive

Eve dans le Jardin ll
Genre: Automatist Digital Sculpture

Cassandra Landau - Gallery Coordinator

Graffiti and the Visual Blurb

2011-07-17T08:53:00.006-04:00

Lokale Einwohner (SpectraZone 415)

Local Inhabitants (Lokale Einwohner)… was originally described by the artist as a rough portrait, a Visual Blurb in watercolor

"It is more graffiti-like in nature and appears better suited in an urban landscape, rather than on a canvas"

Emergence

Subtitle: Sleepless and Dead (Séraphine and Joshua)

An image depicting the tragedy of passing in ones sleep...

To wake in a Netherworld dung heap, eternally frustrated by the lack of good company and quality entertainment

As with any theater troupe...

these newest additions to the gallery reflect a juxtaposition of familiar themes, a reconstitution of cast and staging

Cassandra Landau - Gallery Coordinator

Reverie: The Guise of Social Malaise

2011-07-06T05:08:00.006-04:00

However you may see it (Independence Day or the 4th of July), the concept of personal Freedom is Universal and Revolutionary

America's Declaration of Independence and its Bill of Rights were at one time, a social experiment. A treatise in Civil Liberties, and it caught the attention of the entire Western World

Clearly, there are those who would oppose these measures by any means. They’re purpose... to frustrate the natural evolution of Man and (according to Sartre), Man's state of Being

Being:
The Existential point of view, was generally focused on the condition of human existence according to philosophers of the 19th century

It encompassed both Man’s beliefs and religious views . . .

Included in that study were the states of action, thought, responsibility, and how we (the People) viewed the meaning and/or purpose of our Lives

At the heart the argument is the proposal, that an Individual
is solely responsible for the quality of Life’s Meaning and its condition… unconditionally!

The photo… a curious collection of juxtaposed figures

Cassandra Landau - Gallery Coordinator

Black Betty (Bam Balam)

2011-06-26T05:09:00.006-04:00

Caricature Portraits: East Village Memoirs

Subtitle: Crack Betty in Decline...

BB is the latest addition to the gallery collection of satirical
Automatist Digital Sculpture by Ron Maubidea

Cassandra Landau - Gallery Coordinator

Saiya Tre' und das Letzte Lachen

2011-05-28T21:31:00.020-04:00

Saiya Tre'
- SpectraZone fictional character -

Das letzte Lachen

Translation: The Last Laugh (redux)

Cassandra Landau - Gallery Coordinator

Gallery Mail Room: East Village Memoirs

2011-05-27T09:55:00.277-04:00

Unlike other letters, this one was a bit hard to follow

Regardless, your thoughtful reflections were sincerely appreciated

Thank you Chris

Ron or Ron Maubidea is one of those people you could always rely on for good conversation or a few bucks if he had any to spare

We knew him as the guy with the black sports car and video camera, that had his own Cable Show. He was also alot of different things to alot of people

When we met... he was arguing with me over a torn painting that was pulled from a dumpster on East 7th Street near a construction site

Each of use dove into it looking for street treasure and recyclables. If you remember, I wanted to sell mine at Metal's 24 hour Book Stand on Ave A

When he found out that I knew Metal and had many of the same friends, he lightened up on the large canvas

From then on we stayed good friends and occasionally hung out with the "all night crew" in his apartment

In the 1990’s... the neighborhood reached its peak in scumbags, drugs and undercover cops. The E Village was known for its late night bars and chill spots

Thinking back to that time, it was more like a movie set with outlandish costumes and characters. There were nights I stayed up in Ron’s place because the street was too cold and dangerous to fall asleep safely

I watched him cutting out pictures from magazines for hours then turn them into big collages that covered the walls from one end to the other

There was also this friendly pet rat named Simon who he played with all the time. The darn thing knew its name and would run up each time Ron called

He (Simon) was never in a cage as I recall, and just ran around like it owned the place and was never far away

Friends stopped by his studio all hours of the night.
It was like nobody ever slept and was a cool meeting place to hang out and catch up

We all brought food but mostly coffee and snacks. For some reason, the rat always got first choice of the hot food and I mean... "Simon" was always the first to eat

He would even help Ron open the food bags then stand there waiting to be served. Simon was also like the host of the party, and would greet the people as they walked through the door just like a dog ;)

We lost touch when the neighborhood went to the front page of the news, after the Tompkins Square riots

Those days are over now and Life in the East Village has changed much and for the better

If you don’t remember me, I played the girl sitting on Jesse Ventura’s lap in the movie Demolition Man

I’m not writing this to see it on your blog... that's not what this means, but if you want to put it out that's ok.
I did want to say hi and send you my best... thanks for standing with me when I needed a friend :))

Regards, CK

Cassandra Landau – Gallery Coordinator

Rose dans le Bosquet

2011-05-15T09:26:00.007-04:00

The casual feminine and moments to remember...

Subtitle: Miel Français Sauvage

Cassandra Landau - Gallery Coordinator

SAHARAWI: Yesterday (part 2)

2011-04-29T15:42:00.093-04:00

Interview and Content © Suzanne Horowitz 2011

As a follow up to Part 1 of Yesterday Today and Tomorrow and in view of recent developments, the following paragraphs will cover the pre-release of several original compositions by Ron

The timeline is the early 1980’s when consumer priced synthesizers first hit the market. Also in that decade was the emergence of pop music, soft rock, the introduction of sampling, new wave/no wave, hip hop and rap

Unlike his contemporaries, Ron’s musical inclinations were very different . . .

*At the time you began showing an interest in electronic music, were you still working as a Chef?

Yes… I was the Head Chef at Stuart Steinberg's Library Restaurant on Manhattan’s Westside when someone suggested that we start a band. As I recall, the kitchen always had music pumping and a few of the staff played instruments… so we gave it a shot

*When did you get your first synthesizer?

Probably around 1980 when they first arrived at Manny’s Music on 48^th Street. The technology was still in its infancy and many of the keyboards could only reproduce one note at a time

They were considered modular, voltage-controlled analog synthesizer systems or monophonic synthesizers. I wanted to get one for the bass guitar to expand its range of percussive sounds

*In addition to playing the drums and other musical instruments, did you play the bass guitar as well?

By no means was I an actual bass player… the instrument was used to write melodic lines for songs. It was primarily the potential sounds of the bass that were of interest

*What made the BC Rich Mockingbird different from other electric bass guitars from that period?

Its circuitry was unique and highly advanced for the time. It had features like a built-in preamp, phase reversal, a (5) position rotary dial that changed the electronic configuration, a stereo output etc

*Would you share the backstory on the title track (Saharawi) and how it came about?

The Saharawi are a nomadic people that have lived in the Western Sahara Desert for hundreds of years. Their history... predates the arrival of Islam in the 8^th century AD. I first became aware of them through a PBS documentary called Blood in the Sand.

*Were the Saharawi part of a research project?

No… I was in the studio working on a mix when something very dramatic appeared on a large monitor. There were bearded men with dark complexions scrambling through the desert on camels.

They wore turbans, scimitars and looked really pissed-off about something? In the middle of all that was a small film crew and what appeared to be a female journalist. After watching the program, I went back into the studio and recorded the piece.

*When you compose a piece of music, do your ideas usually start on paper and if not, how would you describe the process?

Very little starts on paper unless there are specific words in mind. Generally, I just start playing and try to capture the moment while improvising. However, this time was different and no instruments were used except for a variety of electronic devices.

The main processor, a Korg MS 50 synthesizer had no keyboard so essentially… all of the orchestral effects and tone bending had to be created by turning little knobs in Real Time.

The sound in my head resembled a Middle Eastern instrument called a Pungi. If you’ve ever heard the instrument used by snake charmers (a double reeded instrument with a grating harmony and squealing tone), you could visualize what I was hearing.

*Can you describe the quality in the documentary that impressed you enough to make a personal statement in musical terms? In other words, what was it about the film that inspired you?

First of all, the film was not like watching a similar event on the evening news. It was attempting to convey the other side’s view of an evolving crisis the world knew little about at the time.

What made the story so compelling was the fact that a female journalist had traveled to a country where women were still considered property and in many ways... less than human

The area she was attempting to reach was an active war zone with very few rules and everyone was a potential target! In order to go into the desert to get that story, she first had to sign a waiver to the hosting country of Morocco relinquishing them of any liability in the event of her death.

I would have to say it was her fearless commitment to the state of Human Rights and that of a journalist, that truly inspired the piece.

Recording Notes and Update:

The music for Saharawi, Transfigurations and Black Attack are presently being transferred from their original analog format to disk. Upon completion, they and other tracks will be uploaded to YouTube with a reference link in these articles.

There are no plans for a video track at this time

To be continued . . .

Substream: The Passover Seder

2011-04-25T12:30:00.000-04:00

Subtitle: There is always room for one more... is the latest installemnt to the Substream collection of Automatist Digital Sculpture by Ron Maubidea.

The image of the Passover Seder... is a typical reflection of his
deep love for Family Life and our modern Jewish heritage

Commentary by Suzanne Horowitz
Cassandra Landau - Gallery Coordinator

Message Board

2011-04-18T12:44:00.004-04:00

Re: Yesterday Today and Tomorrow Interview (Part 1)

It is funny when you think about it and funnier when you consider the question was never asked… a continuity faux pas perhaps?

I’m guessing these oversights are not rare, especially when both parties are consumed in other matters.

The second installment of Yesterday (Part 2) is currently being edited. It will include the backstory on Saharawi and multiple images of the original technology used in the recording.

I wish to thank the following readers for their helpful comments and insightful contributions; George, Leonore, Denise, Robert and Joani, Danielle, Michael, Lois, Ophelia, Lynne, Harry, Sarah and Jeff.

Residual thoughts . . .

Moolala Frozen Yogurt…

@Goidanke… post modern Gothica?

@Riccardo… for his great taste in Jazz

@Colleen… Jluberia is not an offshoot of Santeria

@Stephen Eastwood… Happy Birthday and many more!

Charitable Scorn: The Queen

2011-03-26T20:30:00.065-04:00

Collection: Pop Art Portraits

Cassandra Landau - Gallery Coordinator

Yesterday Today and Tomorrow

2011-03-20T17:12:00.108-04:00

Interview and Content © Suzanne Horowitz 2011

Special acknowledgment to B Ingrid and Karen Young

It was purely by accident that I became reacquainted with Ron on one of the Social Networks and it was from there, we began to correspond daily. We both grew up in a quiet Brooklyn neighborhood, went to the same Public Schools and shared many close friends.

First let me say that I am not an expert on art nor am I qualified to distinguish one period from another. It is with that point of view, that my questions may differ from someone who is . . .

There are two distinct approaches to Abstract Automatism as I see it. In his earliest work, the style was more frantic and less refined. That is because (dare I say it) there were no touchups, and most of the pieces are “of the moment” as he calls it.

In that same body of work… you can find individual pieces that look flawless in detail and smooth as glass.

Due to time and distance, the article will be published in three installments. Yesterday Today and Tomorrow will highlight curious moments from the artist's past, his thoughts on current projects and future directions.

Yesterday . . .

*I was going to ask you a few questions about Abstract Automatism and Automatist Digital Sculpture but as a business person, I’m more curious about the performance space you were going to open with one of the owners of a large NY bookstore.

Sure… why not, it was just after I decided to stop broadcasting on cable. The business plan was structured in such a way that if we didn’t sell one ticket to the public per week, we would still be able to meet the bills and generate a profit by leasing weekend space to venders within the theater complex.

*Who would you be leasing space to and for what purpose?

Flea Market venders of all sorts- the area was known for having some of the best in the city. The more successful venders, had booths in all of the popular markets. One of the biggest downtown markets was by Tower Records on Broadway and drew huge weekend crowds but was situated on the street.

I wanted to establish an indoor Flea Market that would not be susceptible to weather conditions… that would offer healthy foods and live entertainment as part of the shopping experience.

*Weekend travelers and tourists would love that idea, especially in the cold weather. How did you plan to stage the entertainment?

The food and the entertainment would have been located in the basement theater so not to interfere with customer traffic...

People could buy a snack or just sit down and take a break. The entertainment would be on the front stage and limited to acoustic music and street performers…

*Where was all this supposed to happen?

The building was located just below 14th Street (on 2nd Avenue) and at one time had been a church...

There was a sloping theater in the basement with collapsible seats and the main room (on street level) had a concrete platform where the pulpit would have been. The cathedral ceilings were more than 20’ high and what was the chapel, could be used during the week for shooting commercials and professional photography.

There was also a second floor with two loft areas, a separate office space and municipal style bathrooms. Part of the plan was to move all of my audio and video equipment to one of the lofts and offer those services to the public as well.

When production companies rent a space, they incur an hourly rate for the use of electricity. Providing that type of service would partly cover my power costs for the entire operation.

So in essence, the concept was to manage a 9 to 5 production space, an indoor weekend Flea Market and promote WKTV music events during the evenings. The entire package was very compartmentalized and only required a minimum staff to run.

*If all these things actually fell together, what would you say was the end-goal for the project?

That is a good question? Our goal was to have a great performance space with teleproduction quality sound and lighting. In order to pay for the program without relying on ticket sales, other considerations had to be part of the business plan that were outside of the arts as a means of security.

*What inspired you to go in that direction, weren’t you still working in television at the time?

Yes… the show (WKTV) was still in its Saturday midnight and 1:AM Friday slots. But because I never drew a salary for doing the work that we did or charge an artist for production time, the notion of starting an arts-related business was very appealing.

I guess you can say that the overall goal was to create an attractive environment where clients could produce a quality product at a fair cost. The best example of that was based on the merits of WKTV's sound mix and overall production value.

*How was WKTV’s audio different from say... shows like MTV or the Network Broadcasters?

The reproduction of broadcast audio is a fairly fixed process. Once the sound levels have been set, the mix is then sent through a series of processors that are calibrated to an industry standard.

The main difference between a network mix and that of WKTV...
You could crank your TV’s audio to maximum and the speakers would not distort, and it sounded even better when played back through an actual music system. I'm referring to mid 1990's technology.

*How is it possible that Network Broadcast Studios could not produce the same effect you were?

I was not implying they couldn’t...
Networks had little or no interest in the science of sound properties as it relates to harmonic overtones for EFX. If they wanted a show in “Surround Sound”, the engineers would record it as such using gear designed for that purpose.

We on the other hand, were on the lower-end of all that tech... and had no budget for specialized equipment. It was purely by accident that I came across the process. Once fully understood, we were able to reproduce the effect whenever certain aspects in the sound were present.

When applying the effect, it gave listeners the illusion sound was coming from more than two directions like in the movies. Generally speaking, network broadcasters did not experiment in Real Time and the listener had to have "Home Theater" equipment to appreciate it.

*Was WKTV still taping on location at CBGB during the time you were planning the theater complex?

I really don’t think so; we were mostly doing reruns and editing previously aired shows. The music in Downtown clubs had changed, bottomed-out artistically speaking and most of the bands were now headed for the mainstream...

The term “bottomed out” is not meant to be an insult… rather more of a deliberate move toward the acceptable MTV brand of marketable music. It also translated into having more music sounding the same.

WKTV Productions was part of a non-profit organization, dedicated to alternative forms of music and performance art… so for me, it simply wasn’t happening...

*What made you finally decide to bail out of the project- from what you’ve described; the concept had a lot of potential?

There was an enormous potential in the project… and not just from the commercial aspect. It was the sort of place that would attract anyone wanting to be part of an arts-driven performance space.

*You mean a Downtown performance scene, don’t you?

I have issues with the word “scene” and it’s almost like a dirty word- overused, tired and journalistically nondescript.

Re: The space- everything from Dance to Live Music and anything in between. Coming-out Parties to Fashion shows but the best part of it (for me), was to exercise the concept of selling a hamburger twice!

*Can you be more specific?

Sure… after recording a live show (the metaphorical hamburger); we would then have the event on tape and as a possible goal, start a label that centered on an eclectic catalogue of alternative art forms.

These performances could feature a specific artist or be part of a compilation. With every tape sold and in addition to the artist’s copyrights, the performers would receive a portion of the sales.

*Were the performers getting paid for the shows?

Of course they were… but local artists were generally unsigned and managing their own careers. The idea of profit sharing was a sound and fair incentive, it also gave greater significance to WKTV’s artist assistance program.

I decided to pull the plug after we received a copy of the proposed lease from the landlord. The prior tenant, The Theater for the New City was also a non-profit group and had been out for several years.

Our rent bid was based on what they had been paying, so I tripled that number and passed it along as a starting point for negations. The rent they were now asking was five times our number and seemed pretty firm.

*From everything you’ve said, I’m sure the space would have eventually been very successful, don’t you?

Yes I do… and most ventures like this are a gamble to some degree. The financial abstract was sound in that, my partner’s accountants loved the numbers but there was one small problem…

I don’t gamble with other people’s money.

In fact… I don’t gamble at all or at least blindly. The odds (in theory), should not be held by the House exclusively. The program had to run smoothly from the jump, especially during the start-up months and anything that would hinder that process… was unacceptable.

*What is the most interesting aspect of your current work project?

Inventing new words and cool titles...

End of Part 1 (c) Suzanne Horowitz 2011

Social Facades: Ancient Mask Crafting

2011-03-14T12:09:00.013-04:00

To be continued...

Cassandra Landau - Gallery Coordinator

La Bal Masqué: Vague Reflections

2011-02-10T12:12:00.000-05:00

Subtitle: Notion vague d'étiquette traditionnelle (deux)

- Substream -

Gallery Coordinator: Cassandra Landau

What is Pop Art . . .

2011-02-02T09:55:00.018-05:00

Pop Art is an art movement that emerged in the 1950’s in both Great Britain and the United States.

It challenged tradition by asserting that an artist's use of the mass-produced visual commodities of popular culture is contiguous with the perspective of fine art. At times, Pop removes the material from its context and isolates the object or combines it with other objects for further exploration.

The concept of Pop Art refers not as much to the art itself, but to the attitudes which led to it . . .

Pop Art employs aspects of mass culture e.g. advertising, comic books and mundane cultural objects. It is widely interpreted as a reaction to the ideas of abstract expressionism, as well as expanding on the concept. Due to its utilization of found objects and images it is similar to that of Dada...

Pop Art is aimed to employ images of popular culture as opposed to those of more traditional art forms. It emphasizes the banal / kitschy elements of any given culture, most often through the use of irony.

To be continued . . .

Gallery image: Brokeback Vespoidea (abandoned in croatia)
Collection: Pop Art - Graphics

Cassandra Landau - Gallery Coordinator

Automatist Digital Sculpture: Exercise 6

2011-01-21T00:07:00.056-05:00

Aesthetic Coherency and Theme Building

Seraphine and Joshua - Series B

The upcoming February exercise will consist of a multi frame, step by step walk-through of conceptual theme building.

From its basic foundation, the artist will explore possible alternatives based on the fundamental image as well as the pitfalls of abstract departures in concept...

The use of color and/or black and white foundational images, will be one of the topics for consideration.

Gallery image: In Dreams They Come

Cassandra Landau - Gallery Coordinator

The Naked Truth

2010-12-29T09:44:00.009-05:00

Naked Truth's... will be Ron’s first web-published Interview for the New Year and is expected sometime in February...

Hosted by writer-poet, Suzanne Horowitz... it promises to be his most personally revealing to date.

Gallery Image: Parc Industriel et Cailles Méridionales

Translation: Industrial Park and Southern Quail (infra bleu)

Odiopithecus Orangutanus by Ron Maubidea

2010-12-28T14:29:00.000-05:00

Excerpts include...

Odio-Rodeo WAH Sports Fishing

The Coprolite Diet - Benefits and Hazards

(challenging modern myths)

Becca Takes a Holiday

(guilty pleasures of compulsive lying)

Sloshbagerie in Faux Designer Jeans

(the odious guide to butt-sniffing sphincter worship)

Intellectual Dwarfism vs Social Insignificance

(psychopathology of curbside bone chucking)

To be continued...

Cassandra Landau - Gallery Coordinator

Commonalities and Public Interest

2010-12-03T10:41:00.000-05:00

- Readership Update -
In less than four weeks (Nov 15 - Dec 11, 2010), another 5,000 readers have joined the following... grazie tutto!

MESSAGE BOARD

Colleen Caffeine: Lead Singer of Choking Susan
Your art is fantastic... facinating, going to mosey around the website again! Yes, the video was shot at CBGB right before they shut down.

Re: Odious the Misogynist (Chronic Internet Stalker)
John Metal: Dreads and Threads, Texas USA
Where I come from, people like that would be Handled...

*The above comment was made in response to Ron's article on Internet Stalking (Silent Manifesto: The Pathetic Yelpings of a Delusional Misogynist) posted in the Village Voice, Arts and Entertainment forum of backpage.com

We at the gallery do not condone nor support in any way, the efforts of vigilante justice... anywhere

Share an Opinion... Post Your Thoughts to the Gallery Wall

Cassandra Landau - Gallery Coordinator

Next Stop... Mali

2010-11-28T07:27:00.000-05:00

Two new works . . .

Gallery image: Young Beth
Spectrazone Passport Photo - Tangier, Morocco

Gallery image: Utu (named after the Sumerian Sun God)
Chief of the Gill People - Zambia

The portraits depict two of the main characters in a new work of fiction by Ron Maubidea...

Afro-Centrica and the Fertile Crescent (Origins and Beginnings)

MESSAGE BOARD

@ Raja and Leonore - toujours un plaiser...
@ Tainted Coffee Beans and Blood Diamonds - for shame, for SHAME!
@ Andrea and David -
Life is too short, enjoy the Time that you have...
@ Sabrina, Marcia, Nana and Dee (Bronx, NY) -
Wishing you a very special New Year and Mambo lessons for Dee...

Cassandra Landau - Gallery Coordinator

Cyber Stalking and Beyond

2010-11-14T11:52:00.000-05:00

Dear Friends,
We at the Galerie de Maubidea, wish to take a moment and thank you for your continued readership and support.

It comes as no revelation that the issue of Internet Stalking and Harassment as expressed in the article, Silent Manifesto (The Pathetic Yelpings of a Delusional Misogynist), has been of interest to so many...

A brief history . . .

On October 28, 2010, the total number of cross-post readers surpassed 46,000 viewings. As of Nov 14th, local readership has increased to 50,000 and continues to grow!

I am also very pleased about the acceptance of the “Talking Heads” dialogues, featuring ikye and Regina Queens.

It is my sincerest hope that few of you will ever encounter the “bottom feeding scum” that manage to personally thrive from this type of criminal activity. Unlike other crimes, these acts of predation are perhaps the LOWEST form of illicit endeavors in our culture.

Speaking as a Stalking Victim to an envious admirer, we the public do have effective Legal Resources at our disposal.

Cyber Predators are quite simply, faceless cowards!

They hide behind scores of endless names and faux email addresses. They target the weak and the small… i.e. men, women and children who cannot defend themselves fairly.

As a side note, approximately “one in ten” Internet users will become the Victim of a Stalker at some point in their lifetime. Therefore, "it is in ones best interest to have a knowledge of the battle's terrain" . . . Sun Tzu

FYI

According to the FBI and Crime Victim Databases, Internet Stalkers are usually socially maladjusted and inept individuals. They are often emotionally immature and to no ones surprise, subject to feelings of powerlessness . . .

Stalker types have an inability to succeed in relationships by socially-acceptable means. They remain extremely insecure about themselves and suffer from acute, Low Self-Esteem. Equally noted, is the curious similarity between certain male Stalker behaviors and that of a jilted teenage girl.

The same can be said about making unreasonable demands on family members (spouse, children etc), while attempting to control every aspect of their lives via emotional blackmail, intimidation and possibly violence. These behaviors are often the source for their own self-worth and therefore crucial to the disorder(s) and the individual's parasitic nature.

In the case of my own degenerate “slosh bag”, it appears to experience delusional episodes as well…

For your convenience, new articles and support links will be uploaded in the near future. If you would like to stay current, follow the article in the Village Voice, Arts and Entertainment Forum of backpage.com for updates. Thank you all...

Ron Maubidea - Artist in Residence

Fashion News: Stacie Richards

2010-11-08T11:35:00.000-05:00

Fashionable corporate "Gal about Town" Stacie Richards, was caught Live by Fox News at a Giant's game in New York City. Besides having the perfect face for modeling Designer Eyewear... Ms Richards maybe better known as the lively, quick witted Hostess at Special Events.

Stacie is presently working freelance and can be contacted through Facebook for further booking info...

Stacie Richards, Facebook

Literary News: Readership Tops 135,000

2010-10-26T01:58:00.021-04:00

We are pleased to announce that readership of Ron’s articles and satirical cartoons have surpassed 135,000 nationwide readers and continues to grow...

The main articles, An Open Letter (a commentary on premature political forecasting) and Silent Manifesto (The Pathetic Yelpings of a Delusional Misogynist) remain the leading "5 Star Posts" in the Village Voice, Arts and Entertainment Forum of backpage.com

Silent Manifesto... addresses the increasing phenomenon of Internet Stalking, as it relates to the author's personal account as the unwitting victim of an envious admirer.

Although both articles address national and global issues, they are tastefully peppered with a curious series of articulate cartoons.

The dialogues cover a myriad of diverse themes which include (but not limited to)... social satire, homophobia, practical recipes, human rights and the inquisitive banter of the two main contributors, ikye and Regina Queens.

As the Art Director and script writer, Ron’s decade long experience as a Cable Television and Music Video Producer has once again been called into play...

Gallery image: Swamp People

Cassandra Landau – Gallery Coordinator

Cynthia Crowe: Makeup and Illusion

2010-10-10T11:13:00.000-04:00

The work of Ron Maubidea is uniquely contemporary... deeply rooted in the beauty of everyday life. His aesthetics are both simple and honest, but it is his passion for exploring the darker shades of emotion that remains of special note . . .

Leonore Cottant: SpaluxeTv, Paris
Just arrived in the Hundred Worlds of a proteiform artist...

Andrea Perry: Makeup Artist, London
Your colours tell the story of a shapeshifter on a journey of discovery. A mystery of simple moments, captured in multi facets the eye has the pleasure of unfolding...

Collage… perhaps my earliest form of expression, has always played an integral part in the way I interpret events;

and yet the matter of drawing two straight lines in succession... remains unattainable!

Images and Collections (c) Ron Maubidea 2010

Cynthia Crowe: NYC 2010 (pop art-portraits)
Cynthia Crowe: NYC 2009 (the Feminine)
Eve in the Garden: 2003-4 (substream-new uploads)

Cassandra Landau - Gallery Coordinator

Like the Phoenix Rising…

2010-08-14T11:29:00.001-04:00

After a recent celebration to commemorate the efforts of old friends, staff interns and artistic collaborators, it is once again an honor to see (metaphorically speaking) the banner of, Eminent Sound and Videoworks, Inc., hanging above my desk.

I wish to thank the following people for allowing me the privilege to have served the Artist Community of New York City between the years, Nineteen Hundred Eighty-Five - Nineteen Hundred Ninety-Four

As the Executive Director of the program, a special thank you to; Lucy Velvet-Production Coordinator, Angela Caponigro Dance Ensemble, American Festival of Microtonal Music, Hilly Kristal and CBGB, Trudy Schroeder at Bretton Hall, Important Record Distributors NY, Alternative Tentacles SF and to the many contributors who donated their time, thoughts and performances… Ron

As of recent...

Daniel E. Shapiro
First Deputy Secretary of State, NY State Department of State 2010

In the past...

Robert Abrams: Attorney General, State of New York 1987
Howard Holt: Associate Attorney

Kenneth Shorter
Justice of the Supreme Court of the State of New York 1987

Thomas Sobol: Commissioner of Education 1987
Seth Reckmuller: Assistant Counsel

Katharine Rowe: Attorney
Volunteer Lawyers for the Arts 1987

Transitory State of Irreversible Randomness

2010-08-09T09:23:00.000-04:00

Cassandra Landau - Gallery Coordinator

Automatist Digital Sculpture

2010-08-01T09:55:00.000-04:00

Interview: Random Excerpts Part 2

Exclusive Publications: Facebook and Galerie de Maubidea Blog

"Circumventing the Earth via the electronic media can at times be complicated and frustrating… more so, for those who have chosen to live off the grid. For many, the acceptance of an Industrialized Culture where standardized performance and narrow expectations trivialize fundamental aspects of an individual’s view of the world.

With an unwavering dedication; formalization and traditionalism, the unquestionable cornerstones of consistence and inevitability continue to evolve. Regrettably, often resulting in a curative societal malaise for which there are few aesthetic remedies"

*You must be very excited about finally launching the website after a year of delays?

I am completely numb on that subject and a bit nervous sitting here, waiting to see the sample prints. If this new technology works out, then all of the hard work and research will have been worth it.

*What was the biggest obstacle that caused the delays?

The main problem was enlarging the artwork to poster and mural size. Many of these images were designed to be large prints, to impose their presence on the viewer. It would be like walking into a cathedral and being overwhelmed by the massive architecture etc.

*The Church of Maubidea?

At one point I considered selling the collection in smaller sized Giclee prints. Limiting the series to one or two sizes just to get them out to people who liked them was a big consideration. In doing that, retailers and designers may have viewed the collection as insufficient in range.

I couldn’t stand the thought of turning people away disappointed!

*Images such as, Confronting the Serpent and Vague Notion of Traditional Etiquette really lend themselves to the idea of a mural.

Absolutely, and the predominance of white as a base color will add a flexibility for Modern Interior Design. Those colors can also be reversed or customized for specific applications.

Confronting the Serpent

*Are they paintings?

Vague Notion of Traditional Etiquette

No… they’re sculptures. Serpent (In the Garden of Eden), started out as a blob of color. It was an attempt at shaping a minimalist theme in red for greater contrast. Once the expression and the mood of the caricature became apparent, the next stage was to sculpt the eye and then the form of a serpent.

*How much time do you spend on developing an image and do you usually have a theme in mind when a work begins?

Almost all of the Automatist Sculptures start with a blank canvas and that includes the idea of a theme. There may be a technical approach I wish to explore, like layering different colors before starting to sculpt. That way, different colors and shadings will emerge unexpectedly and possibly lead to another idea or a theme.

Serpent and Vague Notion were each finished in one seating. I can’t speak about the way other people may work but when I’m focused on a piece, the session could last many hours – even days before exhausting all possibilities and my energy as well.

*Do you generally work to the brink of exhaustion?

Definitely not as a rule but that depends. There is an image posted on the Gallery Blog (Happenstance and Feathers), that is part of an ADS (automatist digital sculpture) demonstration. That image began with a faded photograph. It had no theme on which to build but somehow knew there was one in there.

After working the image for a while; the concept was going nowhere, so I closed the file and walked away. About one year later in 2009, something popped into my head when looking at it and visualized what I couldn’t see when the work first began. Several hours later the piece was finished and titled.

*Both images are strikingly similar, were you working on them around the same time?

I think so… they both stand out differently style wise, but it wasn’t the first time I was working with basic forms. Fashion Faux Pas and Duchy of Limburg were done along the same lines and are actually two variations of the same theme.

Sometimes I forget that much of the work is only the foundation in building another stage in an ongoing project – another reason why many appear minimalist and oversimplified.

Gallery images...

Confronting the Serpent
Subtitle: In the Garden of Eden

Vague Notion of Traditional Etiquette
Modern Geisha: Hanamachi District, Kyoto Japan

Imperfection: TM Chatham

2010-07-11T08:10:00.000-04:00

Environmentalist: Timothy Michael Chatham

New Zealand (2010)

Gallery Collection: Pop Art - Portraits

Automatist Digital Sculpture: Exercise 4

2010-07-11T06:42:00.000-04:00

Revitalization - the Twelve Steps

Everything Starts With Something… or Nothing by Ron Maubidea

It was late summer in 2008, when work began on this photograph. The image was of a woman who trained hunting birds in her native country and Costa Rica. Plagued by poor quality, the photo offered little more than basic shapes and a faded background.

After eliminating the background and zooming in on her shoulders, the concept of a bust-like portrait began to emerge. I focused the sculpting technique on the right side of the image when a muscular limb took shape. Since biceps had neither feathers nor wings, the work was abandoned until 2009.

What you see in the first photo (step 1), was the result of a lost theme and how it was recovered. The following steps will demonstrate the various stages in ADS and how they were applied...

The Falconer and her Bird of Prey

Step 1

Reconsider the existing form

Step 2

Image Redefined (adjust color and contrast)

Step 3

Image Redefined (monochrome)

Step 4

The Addition of Color Filters

Step 5

Image Realigned and Cropped

Step 6

Cleanup with Enhanced Color

Step 7

Concept Expansion A

Step 8

Refinement

Step 9

Concept Expansion B (sculpting the falcon)

Step 10

Refinement

Step 11

Refinement

Step 12

Clean Up and Final Adjustments

Haitian Creole Pudding: Happenstance and Feathers (2009)

Honorable Mention: Christopher Hitchens

2010-07-11T05:46:00.000-04:00

Best wishes on a speedy recovery!

* One of my favorite writers *

Photo Enhancements: Exercise 6

2010-06-26T06:58:00.000-04:00

The Original Image

Due to the existing Photoshop enhancements, unnatural shading has been added to the composition of the image. These artifacts are most notable on the palm of the upper hand and head area.

Step 1

Experiment with color variations and emotional amplification. In this instance; the model’s eyebrow as been slightly raised to alter her demeanor.

Step 2

The central portion of the image has been “keyed” with soft edges (ellipical marquee tool). Select “inverse” to further isolate the subject and begin to experiment with the surrounding area.

Duplicate and Save each version worthy of additional time and/or interest.

Step 3

To alter the perspective… try flipping the image horizontally for additional possibilities. By redefining the flow of energy, you are creating new paths for the viewer’s eyes to follow.

A “new dialogue” if you will . . .

Step 4

After cancelling both the marquee and inverse tools, modest levels of grain and diffusion have been added to create a mode éthérée (an ethereal disposition).

Note the remaining green artifacts (unnatural shading) in the subjects’ hair.

Step 5

A blue filter has been added to “cool” the effect of the diffusion. The “quick selection tool” was employed to separate the areas you may wish to change. In doing so, the central portion of the photograph will remain intact.

Step 6: Clean Up... The final image

Not unlike the traditional form of cel animation, a total of twelve variations were used to get to this point. Those of little importance can be deleted if space on your drive is a consideration.

Always save the critical steps in the development of your images. It is not uncommon to review them at a later date, to further explore what has previously been established.

Photograph courtesy of Nana Thurler

Regina and ikye: Modèles de Studio

2010-05-07T12:47:00.000-04:00

Subtitle: État Passager de Régression Angélique

Translation: Transient State of Angelic Regression

Description: A brief snapshot of the Artist Muse and Galerie Intern

Cassandra Landau - Gallery Coordinator

Maubidea Interview: random excerpts

2010-05-02T23:05:00.000-04:00

Quote: I think the art world as a whole… has an overabundance of pretty paintings and photographs. These pleasant images have a positive / soothing effect on our subconscious and serve a very specific purpose.

On the other hand… the world for many does not have a pretty face. Hence the need for visual disassociation, conscious and otherwise.

*What are your considerations when developing an image?

For the greater part… the work will generally focus on amplifying the darker shades of emotion, exploring the irrational and the absurd. As human beings, these aberrations in “normal” behaviors are most compelling and deserve an effective voice.

*Looking closer at that statement, don’t you mean “normal” expressions and not behaviors?

The face is our personal mirror and directly reflects what an individual is feeling at any given moment. Perhaps if someone was being tortured and the goal was to hang tough and look unaffected, sure… expressions might appear confusing.

Behaviors also reflect what we are feeling and those emotions are translated through facial expressions. Whichever may come first is a toss-up, but in this case I was referring to behaviors.

*From the tone of your statement, are you suggesting that artists abandon the idea of classic landscapes and traditional portraiture?

I’m not suggesting anything of the sort. Traditional landscapes and portraits make up a huge part of the marketplace. Sometimes… in order to do one thing you must first do another. That is the nature of global commerce and a noteworthy concern when attempting to pay for your overhead, things like rent and art supplies.

It was never a conscious decision to specifically focus on certain themes, as the work is subconsciously driven and almost impossible to predict. But after a while certain patterns begin to emerge. Those patterns are what determine the source of a style and it is that which needs greater attention.

*How would you define normal behaviors?

You simply cannot! If everyone walked about like Stepford Wives (robots), there would not exist a visible range of emotions. Expressions would be limited to happy, sad, confused and so on. People would look and act the same all the time which would eliminate the possibility of individualism.

What appears to be normal… is the scale of general expressions people choose to manifest. When that chain is broken and an individual steps outside of what is considered socially or morally acceptable (e.g. child molestation, spousal abuse), it is those and other deviant behaviors most would view as unacceptable and not in the normale de mode.

What is deliberate, is trying to find a method to exaggerate those expressions and push the envelope of absurdity to its illogical conclusion.

*You mention on the About page of your website, that you have never used a digital paintbrush or drawing tablet to develop an image… is that still an accurate statement?

Yes… but today it’s sort of a yes and no depending on what you call painting. Through 2008-09, the only tool I was using was the Liquify and the various modes in that menu. Much had to do with color variations, shading, adjustments to the hue and so forth.

As the program became more familiar and my application (technique) began to expand, the paintbrush became an essential fill tool. Ultimately to change or color correct an area, I began to incorporate the Marquee as it felt natural and a better choice.

You have to remember... the software was part of a purchase for a Digital Drawing Tablet (still unused), and I had no previous training or experience with Photoshop.

*What was the most notable comment on your work to date?

That's an easy one (laughing)... it came from my website developer Nadia, a former Nuclear Physicist.

We were in her studio trying to decide on a particular piece when she turned to me and said; "You make such beautiful pictures for a Photoshop illiterate, I simply do not understand how you can do this... amazing"

Gallery image: Minotaur: Eclipsing the Moon

Radical Displacement of Cytoplasm

2010-04-26T12:12:00.000-04:00

Subtitle: Corruptible Fatty Enzymes

Genre: Automatist Digital Sculpture

Collection: Microbiology - Chemistry - Science

Cassandra Landau - Gallery Coordinator

Maubidea Interview: Part 2

2010-04-24T03:41:00.000-04:00

Restaurants and Food Service

After a short dinner break, I phoned Ron back to continue our chat. At this point in the interview, I wanted to explore a bit about his work in the Food Service Industry.

Your career and artistic pursuits have been very diverse to say the least. You began as a Musician and a composer of Microtonal Music. At some point you entered Food Service and earned the title, Executive Chef. You worked in Cable Television as a Producer / Director, a graphic artist and the list goes on.

*Would it be presumptuous to conclude that you have invested more time in Food Service than in any other area?

That is a good question… but no. I was always doing something after work and on the weekends. Band rehearsal usually began after a long 10-12 hour shift in the kitchen. When I was the Executive Chef at the Library Restaurant in Manhattan, a few of us on staff started a band as a way of staying sane.

Our combined adrenaline levels was off the charts and seriously needed a way to chill out. Burning up the last of that energy was an imperative for a good night’s rest.

*What is your educational background and where did you study?

Most of what I do has been self taught. Music composition and melody were just parts of a genetic package. You could say I was born hearing music and sounds as well as orchestral arrangements. As for the cooking part… I've been preparing food for people since childhood. I think my motives had more to do with an affinity for Chinese cleavers and large, open flames than the cooking itself. (laughing)

*You entered the Restaurant business with previous experience?

No… cooking was self-taught as well and learned all the basics the hard way, in the field. That would not include the many thousands of hours spent researching the history and science of food. I had it in my head that cooking professionally would be easy.

After all, it was just about preparing foods right . . . wrong!!

It was Food (fucking) Service and I was totally unprepared at the time, for a disciplined lifestyle and a public clientele.

My career started with the opening of a French Café/Restaurant in Brooklyn Heights called, Café de Ron. The menu was casual-eclectic and forever changing depending on the season… the mood… the weather! (laughing)

The basic premise was to be a culinary jazz musician. To improvise with everything and dispel common notions of tradition which included the Classic preparations...

The effort (my concept) was an accident waiting to happen… I was terminally clueless when it came to normal business practices. And after a much needed pow wow with the manager and head waiter (my two closest friends), the idea of standardizing basic items began to make sense.

*Are you saying that you opened a restaurant without a basic menu?

I’m saying that I opened that restaurant making every possible mistake imaginable! Yes… there was a basic menu but the emphasis was on the daily specials in terms of a creative outlet.

*I was under the impression that most restaurants conform to that?

They do indeed… but they don’t usually have twenty or so items on the specials board that could be prepared several different ways. Each variation constituted an entirely different dish. Adding to that, my customers had the privilege of requesting items and combinations that were not on the regular menu. This happened every day at lunch and dinner… it drove my staff crazy!

*Allowing for such choice is quite commendable; did the pace drive you crazy as well?

Absolutely not… I was already there handing out passes to the asylum!

*Was the Café an existing restaurant in the area?

That would be a definite no; it had to built from the bottom up. The space itself was actually a Real Estate office that had gone out of business. It didn’t have the right plumbing and an upgrade to the electrical service had to be installed.

*Aside from the demolition and general construction, did you install the plumbing and electrical work as well?

You require licensed professionals for that sort of thing otherwise the Buildings Department would immediately shut you down. I did build the kitchen and help install all the equipment. The counters, tables and the banquette were all constructed with these two hands.

My customers always had the sense they were dinning in a special place… where the majority of the dishes were started from scratch. Local people would stop me at the market and ask about the evening specials, a recipe… whatever.

*Were the recipes standardized and would you share some of your cooking secrets if asked?

There were no recipes per say… since all the cooking and preparation was done by me, there was little point in that. At the time, I couldn’t afford to hire a qualified cook and usually brought a staff member into the kitchen if they showed an interest in learning.

I might add that the Café was also the first modern Jazz Club in the history of Brooklyn Heights… it was quite a unique experience.

Gallery image: Knackende Eier für ein Omelett
Cracking Eggs for an Omelette is the first installment in the Hunter Thompson, Peyote and Juarez Mexico series of Automatist Digital Sculptures for 2010

End of Part 2A . . . to be continued

Odious the Misogynist: Gespräch zur Hand

2010-04-21T16:21:00.000-04:00

Title: Talk to the Hand

Subtitle: In Less Than Perfect Harmony

I can only speak for myself when I say… women have always had a unique inner strength and depth, far beyond the capacity of most men. They have the ability to bring new life into the world and for the greater part, appear more adept at tolerating indiscretions.

Having said that, there are those men who nurture an irrational resentment… and take every opportunity to lessen the acceptable standard of “All things being equal” as a bridge for physical abuse and debasement. Odious is one such example… a pathetic reflection of social evolution and cultural adaptability . . . Ron Maubidea

Maubidea Interview by Putain d’art

2010-04-21T04:02:00.000-04:00

Digital Painting

Automatist Digital Sculpture

It was mid-winter of 2008 when I first suggested this interview to Ron. The seed of what is here began with the Wikipedia article, Abstract Automatism (automatism abstrait du moment) as it was defined by the artist.

The Questions… Part 1

*Has there been much change in your approach to Digital Painting and Sculpture since 2008?

Not really… certain things become a bit clearer in terms of the software but generally speaking, the approach is still the same.

*I can see that in the new work, but elements inside the work do appear different somewhat.

There has been a progression in the technique… as I said; some elements of that approach get redefined as the “feel” changes with different and upgraded programs. These days, I have been starting new pieces with Photoshop CS. The tools are in different places and what exists in one version is absent in another. Not knowing where things are will change the momentum of a developing image.

More time = more thought, which translates to different considerations and possibilities.

*I don’t completely understand your point. Are you saying that common tools and brushes are missing in different Pshop versions?

They’re not exactly missing… but yes, of course I am. If Adobe wanted its customers to have every option available in their top of the line software, it would be like shooting themselves in the foot financially speaking! The lesser versions are for those users with simpler needs. People who wish to amp the colors or sharpen an image would do fine with a less expensive package.

*Do you currently own or use the Pro version of Photoshop?

No… never! It’s way out of my realm of general applications. Perhaps if I was engaged in print work or designing gift cards, it would have a real purpose and justify the additional expense.

*You employ the phrase “emotional color”, what does that mean exactly?

I guess the simplest explanation would be to refer to my observations as a teenager. Back then, most of the art was collage. My bedroom was filled with them, the walls, the ceiling and the doors. A door (like a canvas), was actually the best place to construct one because the measurements are fixed and it made the process that much easier.

When I would step back to examine the image, certain flows of color became evident. Those color flows were part of what made up the "mood", different excerpts were projecting. The elements themselves (hand cut images), came from various sources like magazines and books. The print paper was different from source to source so the light hit your eye differently depending on the ink and the quality of reproduction.

The elements that were chosen, reflected different time periods and styles in art history and modern journalism.

*Was Fashion photography a big influence on your early work?

Honestly… I don’t think so (lighting a cigarette). Most of the images that caught my attention in terms of Emotional Color, were those of abstract nudes and general weirdness. Dutch painter, Hieronymus Bosch would be a perfect example. The work of say… Helmut Newton would make most anyone stop turning a page and look closer. His work was passionately fashion oriented, sensual and of course uniquely tasteful . . . and abstract.

His depth of sensual content (bordering on the perverse), was unique in its own right. It wasn’t going to be a mass market commodity in any measure especially at the time his photographs were first being published. And for the greater part, I would say it appealed to people with darker sexual inclinations.

*Can you be more precise?

Darling, if I have to be more precise… what would be the point of this interview? I mean… why would anyone read this stuff? I will say this though, as a young boy he spent some time in a German Concentration Camp. Newton was also the son of a fairly well-to-do Jewish family, which owned some kind of a factory producing buttons for the clothing industry.

Considering the times, his existence paralleled that of an African American living in the Southern States during the 1940’s. That was a period of major oppression and racism in our history. People lived with the understanding that being of a certain ethnic group or gay, made you “subhuman” and a person of lesser value than say those of other orientations.

Considering that, I would say that his work was mostly about Freedom of Expression and having the ability to place the subject in situations that were otherwise taboo. His collections would probably be kept in someone’s library or bedroom. Not exactly the fashionable, Coffee Table decoration you might see today…

End of Part 1 . . .

Gallery image: Plutonium - Global Recipe for Destruction

Le fossé du Marianne: Sonar marin

2010-04-10T19:45:00.000-04:00

Translation: Marine Sonar in the Mariana Trench

Gallery collection: Environmental - Landscapes

Baby Jane Gothica

2010-04-10T19:19:00.000-04:00

BJ Gothica (WKTV's surrogate Audio Engineer), on a remote taping of Alice Donut and Tragic Mullato at CBGB. At the time... there were a number of Alternative Tenticles recording artists in New York City for a week of Live Shows.

Included in the lineup were the Beatnigs, featuring Michael Franti...

Gallery collection: Pop Art Portraits

Farmville Bonus Limitations ?

2010-04-05T20:46:00.004-04:00

Earlier today, I clicked on a Fv post that was offering bonus points from one of my neighbors. Like many of you, I do this all the time… it adds extra points! Now, the makers of Fv offer the players a variety of cool options that facilitate the exchange of actual currency. These options (or gifts) are added as enhancements to a player’s farm and/or artistic theme.

In lieu of being directed to that “all too familiar window” which cheerfully displays an increase in score points, I was led to a darkened hollow and regrettably informed there is now a Limit of five Bonuses per player - per every 24 hours.

Note: Will the Rocket Scientist that instituted this aberration of fair play, please take a bow… now!!! ( ( ) + foot = satisfaction?

A few hours later, I found myself once again... considering this curious debacle. From the point of view of an application designer, I completely understood their need for rules and parameters.

Without proper direction… gamers will run amuck, they will burn down the nearest city or town – rape and pillage those with inadequate defenses and ultimately “change the features”, of your Petville avatar.

rewind and review . . .

Quite clearly, none of the afore mentioned will ever occur as the result of a few misguided bonus points. Furthermore, I believe the loss in good will... far outweighs the cost for developers to reconsider their position on this matter.

The game itself is delightful for both grownups and children. It was designed to entertain… generate a few laughs and inevitably raise large sums of revenue to pay for future research and development. Progress along this line is evident by the omnipresent sync problems and reoccurring... whatever's !!

Personally speaking… I see no logical reason for the Bonus Point Limitations. Arguably, someone in the other camp must have suggested it and the developers threw it in. Well Think Again Genius, you are defeating in part... the purpose of your endeavor.

a hypothetical scenario . . .

Imagine for one moment, laboriously tending your fields and those of various neighbors. There has been little rain in several weeks and the Sun is radiating with an uncommon vengeance. You decide to take a break and close the application. You click on Home and get redirected to the Facebook News Feed. Somewhere in the mix is a familiar post and it reads… Get Bonus Points.

After clicking on the link, you are redirected to a page that illogically expounds; Your befuddled fandango… has been extricated to a dissipated membrane on the far side of the Eleventh Dimension!!

Now, does that make any sense to you… my point exactly.

2010-03-08T10:17:00.000-05:00

Jardin Botanique à L'école Maternelle

Translation: Botanical Garden at the Preschool
The imaginary creatures of a young boys fantasy...

to be continued . . .

Friends on Blogged

2010-02-12T12:52:00.000-05:00

Dear Friends,

You may wish to follow my original blog... here on Blogspot!

The text is much better (no disrespect) and the images are reproduced with greater clarity... just a thought.

Enjoy your Holiday weekend!!!

Gallery image: The Snow Angel's View of Escobar

New Additions...

2010-02-09T10:17:00.000-05:00

Proto-Semitics and Ritual Movement, is the newest addition to the gallery by Ron Maubidea.

Distinct in figurative form, the Automatist Digital Sculpture is yet another extension of the artists continuing evolution in modern abstract concepts.

Inspired by the earliest attestations of Proto-Semitic language (Akkadian and Eblaite, dating to the 23rd century BC), the image reflects the primitive movement of a ceremonial dancer.

In recent years, Egyptian researchers claim to have discovered earlier text in the form of "snake spells" that predate existing evidence by approximately 700 years.

The find was dated between 2400 to 3000 BC.

Subtitle:
An Irresistible Neurochemical Impulse to Dance

Cassandra Landau - Gallery Coordinator

Farmville: Subliminal Time Bomb or Cultural Blight

2010-01-26T16:31:00.000-05:00

Description: A computer game where the player can build and manage his or her own farm with livestock.

Player Report: After countless hours of relentless aural bombardment, I have painfully concluded that the musical theme for Farmville was composed by a Transmanian expatriate / Cosmosexual-Serial Killer!

Furthermore... the ever-popular Pattypan Squash has been tainted with an Agent Orange residue... The genetically altered Daffodils have a sterilizing pollen that is hazardous to Honey production and Bee populations respectively.

Re: Livestock & Critters

The rabid sheep and carnivorous baby-pink pigs are in actuality, four-legged Porn Stars and Suicide Bombers in training. The Chicken Coop is the neighborhood Crack House and the zombiesque Avatars are ex-80's (certifiably brain dead) Club Kids.

Although not scientifically based, my findings are the result of controlled, user observations and electronic monitoring... The occasional use of cattle prods was a clinical incentive provided by other video game manufacturers.

In conclusion: This application is curiously addictive and time consuming. The user will find that maintaining a virtual farm (as in real life), is not as easy task without the assistance of others.

For the young... there are clearly positive Life Lessons to be considered in the Farmville experience.

For those of an adult age... the application is a reasonable substitute for intellectual masturbation. It can serve as a brief interlude when working long hours online or as a communication tool in lieu of a common language . . .

Random Notes

2010-01-23T06:02:00.000-05:00

What do Hunter Thompson, Peyote and Juarez Mexico have in common?

A new series of works by Ron Maubidea

* * * * * * * * *

Quote: The best part about being here Today . . .

was leaving Yesterday behind!

* * * * * * * * *

Question...

How do you get the most from acknowledging the "Living Condoms" in our lives?

Answer... you do not!

Cassandra Landau - Gallery Coordinator

Village Voice: Backpage Forums

2009-12-19T10:15:00.000-05:00

Arts and Entertainment: An Open Letter...
Post Title: To He, that shall remain nameless!

Current Statistics
1- More than 22,600 viewings
2- More than 2,000 readers per month
3- Current backpage.com readership...
53,680 and growing!

Silent Manifesto 5 STAR RATING!!!
The Pathetic Yelpings of a Delusional Misogynist
More than 22,900...
More than 44,000 local readers...

Thank you all... !

Gallery image: Absinthe in the Kalahari

Cassandra Landau - Gallery Coordinator

http://forums.backpage.com/forumdisplay.php?f=

Posturing at Fashion Week...

2009-12-09T15:07:00.000-05:00

An homage to Rachel Zoe... and her talented staff of fashion stylists.

Taylor Jacobson and Brad Goreski...

The Garden series...

2009-12-05T14:38:00.000-05:00

Pedestrian Reflections In Berlin... is an isolated corner of a much larger work which began in 2003. It is part of the "Alice in the Garden" series of three dimensional collage sculptures.

The series is an expanding collection of abstract expressions linked by a common theme.

Much like Alice's Adventures in Wonderland (1865) by Lewis Carroll (Charles Lutwidge Dodgson)... the art reflects the misadventures of a real life Alice, living on the streets of Manhattan's Lower East Side 1984-1990.

To be continued...

Cassandra Landau - Gallery Coordinator

Campanelle in Crema del Pomodoro

2009-11-17T12:22:00.001-05:00

Campanelle in Tomato Cream with Gorgonzola and Smoked Gouda

1- Melt a quantity of butter (approx. 2 tbsp.) in a large skillet.

2- As the butter starts to foam, add the cooked Campanelle pasta and toss about the pan. Add (fat free) half-and-half dairy, diced Apple Smoked Bacon (cooked) and season with freshly milled pepper and smoked sea salt.

3- After a minute or two, add a small quantity of Herbed Tomato or Marinara Sauce (1 tbsp. at a time) and continue to cook on a medium flame.

Note: At this point, the sauce should be a creamy “pink” in color. Check the seasoning and adjust if necessary. Should the sauce appear too thick, add a few drops of water, chicken stock or white wine to thin and continue to simmer.

4- Begin to incorporate small chunks of the Gorgonzola cheese into the sauce. As it starts to melt, add a quantity of (shredded) Smoked Gouda cheese while stirring constantly. Taste and adjust the seasoning if necessary.

5- Turn out on a large warm plate and serve immediately.

Additional Notes: There is always the possibility of a Cheese Sauce looking too pasty or clumpy, moments after being served. To avoid this problem, keep a small amount of chicken broth nearby. This being an al dente pasta dish, the noodle will continue to absorb the liquids in the pan. As the sauce cools, the dairy will also coagulate resulting in a pasty texture...

Variations and garnish:

The addition of fresh Green Peas and (blistered), Baby Grape Tomatoes.

Deep-fried Artichoke Hearts (use as a sauce well and gratinee)

Substitute Potato Gnocchi (browned) for the Campanelle.

The addition of Prepared Italian Meats (diced or julienne)

The addition of red basil (Campanelle Rosso)

This is in essence, a creamy pesto sauce with tomato.

Serving Tips: Always use a hot plate when serving a Cheese Based Sauce.

Hermaphrodite: Les premiers signes de vie

2009-11-12T13:53:00.000-05:00

Les premiers signes de vie, is the sixth installment of automatist digital sculpture to be added to the Neoclassic collection of Abstract Automatism.

The portrait was originally conceived in the summer of 2008, only six months after the artist began his experimentation with digital image manipulation.

In a recent interview (to be viewed on Facebook) he was asked the question, How do you choose a theme or style to work with?

Quote: For the greater part, I would have to say it chooses me. When I begin to work on a blank (digital) canvas, what generally materializes is an image that reflects the current mood. Because I don't sketch or outline a specific image, the energy of the moment will dictate the direction in which the sculpture will ultimately be viewed.

When the work is commissioned (usually a photograph), it is the elements in that image that determine the theme for the subject. Once that has been established, it becomes more about the mood which is reflected in the use of color and shading...

Cassandra Landau - Gallery Coordinator

Sabertooth Willie: The Psychedelic Gerbil

2009-11-08T19:39:00.000-05:00

It was the day before Mary's wedding when I received the call. She appeared quite nervous and suggested we hang out and get totally wasted... one last blast so to speak. Her future husband was one of the local street kids, a Skateboard Punk that hung around Astor Place.

He was also considerably younger and far less adept at survival...

So we met up in Tomkins Square Park, bought a shit load of drugs and headed west toward MacDougal Street in Greenwich Village.

Contrary to popular belief, these bars were lame college hangouts. Not the sort of place for two seasoned East Village dopers bent on self-annihilation and debauchery.

I guess she chose the area because none of our mutual friends would be caught dead in these places and whatever happens there... stays there!

After cruising the street for a suitable establishment, she pointed to a door several steps below street level.

The room was dark and sparsely populated. There was trash and cigarette butts all about the floor while most of it's patrons were seated at the far end of the bar.

We ordered two beers with twin shots of tequila than sat in the nearest booth. Seconds later, she was at the juke box feeding bills to an insert. All at once, the room began to pulsate from the sound of frantic drum machines and the tortured cries of those in purgatory.

Hey man... they have Foetus and Neubauten on this thing! What were you expecting, the Beach Boys and Debby Boone? I downed my first shot and sat curiously for her return.

Initially, our conversation was chaotic and somewhat tangential. Patterns of thought began to fracture like delicate chards of fallen glass.

So what's up dude, she asked grinning? She was now in my face with her hand on my thigh. Thinking... one should never wear leather around Mary...

Not unless you want her sniffing at your armpits and crotch!

I began to get very distracted.

Come with me, she said... dragging my junked-out carcass across the room. I have to tell you a funny story about Sabertooth Willie. Is he a friend of Chainsaw, I asked inquisitively?

No... he's a gay gigolo gerbil, that's who... a FUCKING WHAT???

Ron, you know what they say about gerbils and gay men? People say a lot of stupid things about subjects that make them uncomfortable.

I thought that was an urban legend or a sexual delicacy reserved for the discriminating few?

No, it's true I think, at least this story is she replied. I've seen this guys' asshole and it's a mess!

At this point, the pub was relatively crowded. Those nearest us were hanging on every word.

How do you get a rodent up your butt to begin with, someone asked? You entice them with something sweet like a flavored syrup or honey, she responded.

The guy with the crinkly sphincter said that he doesn't feed Willie for a day. An hour before the ritual, he doses his water with X or sprinkles some on a potato chip. He then lubes his butt adding syrup to the mix.

You apply a little over and in your anus with a finger. The person then assumes a comfortable position while someone inserts the gerbil tube... the rest is up to the rodent.

Oh... and he also loans Willie out to like-minded friends!

I could see this crowd had mixed feelings on the subject of Gerbil Love and animal abuse. Expressions ranged from thoroughly amused to utter disbelief.

All the while, Mary danced and nodded her head in rhythm to the music. I knew she was full of shit... the story was just a ploy, her way of gaining complete attention and control...

Since the needs of the many far outweighed any justification for remaining intact, I made my way to the door. Where are you going she asked? I'm heading back east, I've had quite enough entertainment for the evening.

My girlfriend had warned me that Mary had a pattern of seducing her friend's boyfriends. I was also certain that she would be safe, as there were few that could outmaneuver her socially.

After all, my friend was a compellingly odd personality and a voracious cultural vampire.

It was rare to find someone with her resource for self-destruction and for the greater part... I was completely bored!

Positively Horrified...

2009-11-02T09:44:00.000-05:00

Last evening I began to work on a new image... a sultry ingénue. The subject had particularly unique feminine characteristics... After several hours an overall image construct developed.

As with many of my portraits, creature figures are in large a spirited presence. Due to the nature of the abstract content, a small one-eyed amphibian (peering through her ample locks) emerged. Prior to completing that step, all previous content had been saved.

I took a breath, sat back in my chair to observe when suddenly... both monitors crapped out!

Now... a crashing program or momentary loss of power are not uncommon occurrences; been there, as have we all. And for those of us that have learned to deal comfortably with these issues, it is only a matter of seconds before the technology recoups.

However, in lieu of the usual computer reset, my equipment (I don’t know how to describe this any other way) went into Pulmonary Arrest and started to wheeze!

Endless cycles of labored breathing sounds and flashing lights... Oy vey!!!

The entire face of my tower was alit... yellow, green and red LED’s all goin’ schizoid.

My baby was stroking-out... somewhere between Cardiac Failure and a Psychotic break-down.

THIS HAS NEVER HAPPENED BEFORE... shit! Shit!! BIG STINKY SHIT!!! :(

I pressed the Start Button to cut the power and held it in... 5 seconds - 10 seconds - 20 seconds...

Nothing happened... WTF!

My heart began to pound, my pulse now racing... and all the while knowing this is probably the Hard Drive dying. What else could it be? The breathing sound was that of the drive attempting to start up. Every time it did... it collapsed, than started up again only to repeat the failing cycle of old age.

Its back to the Mac...

Automatist Digital Sculpture by Ron Maubidea

2009-11-01T09:45:00.000-05:00

Not until recently have I gone back to exercise an earlier technique I began exploring in 2008. Cycle of Life (evolution simplifee), was one of the first works that incorporated a manipulated photographic image augmented with digital sculpture.

They say, what goes around... comes around and nothing could be more relevant in terms of style.

In January of 08', I received my first version of Photoshop as the result of purchasing a digital drawing tablet. For years I had planned to get the program and "personalize" the images in a series of both mixed-medium collage and digital sculptures.

Without any prior experience, I dove blindly into the process, neglecting all the rudimentary steps (such as proper setup) which I later regretted utterly...

There are currently over 1200 completed works in my catalogue, many of which required reconfiguration for large format (mural size) printing. For months, I struggled with the question on how to resolve the issue of enlargement. A solution had to be found that did not impede on the integrity of the images viewed online or that of the original concept.

The website (Galerie de Maubidea) is only a few months old... a baby if you will. And like any concerned parent, I want the best for the child. To date, most of the reproductions have been sold as standard prints. In an economy where people are counting pocket change, fewer and fewer archival prints (giclee) are being sold by lesser known artists. When someone buys a giclee print, they ultimately expect its value to increase... and why not! They can cost hundreds of dollars and considerably more when the image is that of a popular artist.

Personally, I have never owned a giclee... That which I may buy, are usually in the disposable / flavor of the month category and priced accordingly. I do so because "taste can change"... mine certainly does, and how many Rembrandt's can one possibly afford!

To remedy this, I asked the printer to reproduce an early abstract, one that fully encompassed the concept of Abstract Automatism. An image that was purely conceptual; was developed without the use of photo templates and was completed within the time constraints of a fleeting inspiration... whew!

Yeah, yeah... I know, lots of BS goin' on, but it's all true. Anyway, while at the printer, we encountered the issue of enlargement for the first time. I won't go into detail but I will say this. Several embellishments (photoshop effects), were added as layers to the image. At the time, I thought it looked passable considering... so I ordered the print on canvas (a giclee) and paid the wholesale price of a few hundred dollars unframed.

Several days later, the printed canvas arrived at my studio. I unwrapped it gingerly and set it on a stool against the wall. Days later, I was still observing it numbly; could not reason out what was causing all the emotional confusion. I WAS FUCKING PISSED!

To this day, I hate that thing! It does not represent the image one views on the website. It resembles it... but I know and can see the differences. To date, the print could have been sold twice but refused so. It was suggested that I simply "go for the money" and deal with my objections at a later time. HELL NO!

The lesson absorbed (as well as the cost) was infinitely more valuable than the price of the print in question. After all... I would have to live with that decision and inevitably face (my conscience view) a dissatisfied patron asking the question, "Why do the images appear different" or worse!

Image: Lucrezia: Bad Hair Day and Funny Hat (Pop Art - Portraits)

Elizabeth Báthory: Silent Meditation on Vestigial Organisms

2009-11-01T05:04:00.000-05:00

Silent Meditation on Vestigial Organisms: An intimate portrait of the infamous Hungarian Countess, Elizabeth Báthory.

It was once thought that organs such as the tonsils and the appendix were useless “leftovers”, footprints of mans evolution. Current research has determined that that the small pouch which extends off the large intestine (the appendix) is particularly useful fighting infections as a result of exposure to certain types of radiation and other conditions.

Charles Darwin put forth the theory; the appendix was used primarily to digest leaves and other vegetation in early primates. As man evolved, he has eaten fewer vegetables preferring a variety of meats. Consequently, the appendix (or vermiform appendix, also cecal appendix / vermix appendix) has grown considerably smaller to accommodate the increased size of our stomachs.

I Had A Dream...

2009-10-28T12:28:00.000-04:00

Not exactly the Martin Luther King Jr. version, rather more of the Animal Planet expeditionary type. As a fan and regular viewer, I tune in daily when working in my studio. When the Meerkat Manor series began… I was hooked!

As with much of the exploitive programming we view these days on television (Ghost Hunters, UFO whatever, Paranormal spirits a-go-go), the one show that stands out as reasonably credible (for me) is Destination Truth with Josh Gates.

My dream centered on an expedition in search of the Wolfman; perhaps the Abominable Snowman, I can’t be certain. It was a dream after all, but the inspiration for this minor epic probably began with recent ads for the show.

I had sent a resume to the producers in the hope of landing a job. Several weeks later we were on a plane heading for destination... who knows where?

The following sequences were dark. It was the evening; the air was damp and frigid. The crew was walking in a tight cluster as we stepped cautiously in and about the trees. The only ambient light was that of a full moon obscured by dense forest. Needless to say, everyone was on edge.

Suddenly, Josh motioned to halt! Did anyone else hear that, he asked? For the first time since leaving base camp, we all seemed to be on the same page and scarred shitless!

The sky was pitch black; we were in a foreign country and miles from the nearest town. There were no visible roads in the area and just before leaving... the crew signed a waver rendering the network harmless in the event of our deaths…

The situation was fucking bleak!

Out of nowhere came this thing… It was screaming - growling - spitting, totally pissed-off by our presence. EVERYONE FREAKED!!!

Josh kept repeating... Don’t stop rolling the tape, I want this footage / whatever it takes!

The scene was in slow motion; an assistant was shouting irrationally for her inhaler, indiscernible garbled voices… The next thing I knew, the creature was in my face and its behavior... unacceptable!

The smell of its fishy breath was reminiscent of the open trash cans in New York’s Chinatown on a hot summer night. I could see jutting yellow teeth surrounded by foaming saliva…

This was all a bit unsettling and aesthetically repugnant...

In the next few sequences I was fighting for my life. Everything was now moving very fast. My parker was shredded from swipes of its claws. The voices in the background were now saying, “Don’t hurt the creature – we are trespassing and invading its territory”, whatever you do... don’t hurt it!

What do you mean don’t hurt it? This thing is attempting to rip chunks out my ass! Shortly thereafter, I awoke from the kicking in my sleep.

Believe it or not, nothing about this dream appeared unnatural. Especially when being asked to lie down and die miserably for the sake of television ratings.