Offset 2016 brought once again a weekend full of perks and inspirational talks to a creative industry hungry to learn of the experimental artistic approach, ethics, personas and the working process behind the invited speakers. This year we saw names such as Mr Bingo, Gmunk, Seb Lester, Jonathan Barnbrook, McBess, Piranha Bar, Tado, Assemble, Niall McInerney, Robert Ballagh, Stephen Kelleher, Morag Myerscough, Úna Burke, Rothco and the list goes on. The ratio between men and woman participants is still somehow uneven but it was nice to see that we are still present and can be as successful on such game. At this years event we almost found out who Banksy is, we are going to have to wait a bit longer on this though. We were told that Bowie was kind and a great person to work with. We also almost found out on how to price a client such as Nasa for a Logo, we were left without knowing too. We do also know from the conference that a broad public can accept being mistreated or being made fun off when art is applied. That was one of the most entertaining talks I have ever experienced from someone wearing a t shirt that said no fun, such experience has transformed me and I now enjoy a bit of rap music too. We also learnt that working for a Windows Logo can be boring for some and how cats can make life a lot more entertaining. I would certainly never end with the list of praises such creating masters deserve. But like you and I they are just normal human beings even though we kind of consider then some kind of super heroes. They have learnt it all from working hard on what they are passionate about and becoming better beings while mastering their doings. Collaboration is key. Kickstarter campaigns can help. They have learnt of the importance of trusting and believing in oneself. Well they have also been somehow lucky I guess. Those are the basic ingredients so far to one successful journey in the creative industries.
Another fun aspect that I can add on to such a roller coaster of a weekend was taking a portrait of Irish Illustrator Steve Simpson as part of my Obsession on going project based on Franz Kafka's quote, "Follow your most intense obsession mercilessly". I found the best fit to work with, Steve Simpson, his skull, my skills, a lovely background and a sunny moment. I am also glad that I get to inspire other artists such as the camera man Albert when they spot me at work. Oh well hiding process and ideas it is never an easy task. I am also going to use this opportunity to announce that I will be having my own personal first exhibition with Instituto Cervantes at Lincoln House in Dublin 2 for the month of June. I've themed it "Give me a museum and I will fill it" so come along. Opening is on the 1st from 6-8pm. Thank you Offset, all the team behind and thank you to Brian for the yearly courtesy pint at the Ferryman Inn.
Hoping the photos are enjoyable ;)
