Maverix Studios: NEWS

Maverix Studios Gone?

2011-10-04T18:04:00.000-07:00

What can we say to start but offer a warm thank you to all that have been our friends and supporters over the years?

So, thank you — all of you. From the Animation business stand point; it has been an honor to carry the torch from the time when Maverick Studios (note that the name had “ck” originally) was founded by Robert Valley in 1994. Since then it has been a welcoming place to many artists in the community looking for inspiration and a place to hunker down. It has been a revolving door of talent and an important place for networking.

Our doors have indeed closed and as it has been said lately, "an end of an era". Times have changed, technology has blossomed and the animation industry has suffered in some ways, but gained in so many ways. It isn’t the intent here to get into the business aspects of the Maverix Studios era, but more a reflection on its positive contributions that we hope will be remembered throughout the art community in the Bay area and perhaps beyond.

We will never forget how so many came forward for the causes as we proudly sponsored benefit auctions, ranging from helping a friend with medical bills and disaster relief to the cure for Alzheimer’s and cancer. It has been truly humbling.

We also won’t forget the friends and colleagues (many of them new friends we’ve made) that shared the office space, offering trust and companionship. We’ll miss those that dropped in from time to time just to say hi.

There is a lot to miss about Maverix Studios and lot of fond memories to hold dearly.

But; one should never say never, right? The spirit of Maverix Studios will live on; we have no doubt. And someday, somewhere we will all be together again doing what we do best, inspiring, networking, and having another successful fundraiser for the next great cause!

Keep the Spirit Alive!

Love and best wishes to all,

The Maverix Studios gang

ONE , ひとつ - Big Success!

2011-04-04T17:59:00.000-07:00

One,ひとつ was a HUGE success. All 50 pieces were sold ~!

Many thanks to all the donating artists, the volunteers and special thanks to Dice ,all the Maverix Members for their work and Seiji Horibuchi of New People for letting us use Superfrog Gallery for the event.

Thank you also to the hundreds of people who came to the show.

...All together as ONE , we raised $30,605, well over our initial goal for the cause :)

Considering we only had a few weeks to prepare, it is an amazing success!!

Thank you so much to everyone who made it to the ONE event Many of you donated precious art , donated generous cash , bought the awesome art , donated time and helping hands or bought things at the merchandising tables , we all together- as one- helped raise a good number of dollars , a lot of help , for Japan

Event video coming soon

Photos by Tom Rubalcava .trubalcava.com/One_art_auction/
& BHPang

ONE , ひとつ - Sho Murase

2011-04-02T14:26:00.000-07:00

Another exquisite piece from Sho Murase!

mixed-media on wood

12"X16"

During the last several years Sho has been working in studios across London, Barcelona & San Francisco as an illustrator, animator, designer and storyboard artist.

In addition to her animation work she has been a part of several gallery shows and creating graphic novels.
Her fist color graphic novel “SEI” was published by Image Comics in November 2003. Since then she illustrated covers for comics and many graphic novels, including the Nancy Drew serie

http://www.shomurase.com/

ONE , ひとつ - Vaughn Ross

2011-04-02T14:22:00.000-07:00

Vaughn Ross is contributing this thoughtful acrylic at the art auction.

10"X10"

Acrylic on canvas

Vaughn Ross is a story artist at Lucasfilm.

Vaughn is a contributing member of the artist co-op "Maverix Studios"

Vaughn is a character designer, animator and illustrator.

http://vaughnross.wordpress.com/

ONE , ひとつ - Robert Valley

2011-04-01T23:20:00.000-07:00

This cool piece is by Robert Valley , drawn in traditional animation paper using graphite .

Robert has been directing animated commercials and music videos for the past two decades, working in projects such as Gorillaz

ONE , ひとつ -Helen Chen

2011-04-01T15:04:00.000-07:00

This very well executed piece is done by Helen Chen
Title "Sushi Chef"
11x 14 oil
http://jigokuen.blogspot.com/

She is currently working as a visual development artist at Disney animation Studios

ONE , ひとつ -Meghan Jean Kinder

2011-04-01T14:49:00.000-07:00

Artist: Meghan Jean Kinder

Title: "Cicada Song"

Media: Mixed Media on Panel

Size: 10 x 8 inches

Phone: 503-501-6642

Website: http://www.meghanjean.com

-"The images of Japan that flooded the media after the disaster were hugely upsetting; People terrified and displaced among the destruction of their homes. But incredible stories of bravery, humanity, and triumph emerged, too. Like those stories, cicadas are a symbol of re-birth. In Japan specifically, their sound signifies the summer season as they emerge from the ground to sing, re-born."-Meghan Jean Kinder

ONE , ひとつ - Marcos Mateu

2011-04-01T12:49:00.000-07:00

Marcos Mateu's bold blacks and composition stand out in this one.

Untitled
Ink on Paper
14"X18"

Born in Palma de Mallorca. Graphic-novel artist, Illustrator, working in animation since 1991 (2D backgrounds, 2D layout, storyboard, visual concept and development). Author of "Framed Ink, drawing and composition for visual storytellers". Currently at Dreamworks. Film credits: We're Back, Balto, The Prince of Egypt, Eldorado, 3 Wise Men, Toto Sapore, Asterix and the Vikings, Surf's Up, Megamind.

http://marcosmateu.blogspot.com/

ONE , ひとつ - Ed Bell

2011-04-01T12:41:00.000-07:00

Here is Ed Bell's wonderful piece. Always exploring shapes, line and tonality. Such a talent.

"A Bending"
Pencil and Marker
11" x 14"

Ed Bell is a filmmaker, director, animation artist and designer. A native of South Central Los Angeles, he went to California Institute of the Arts for their film and video program. Since that time he has been involved in bringing art to life in various forms. His directing and artistic credits include both film and commercials for clients such as HBO, Warner Brothers, Disney Features, Nike, Sony, and BBC Television. He is an affiliated commercial director with Special Agent Productions, and is currently collaborating on a graphic novel with comedic horror writer, Michael Boatman.
http://houseofmanycolors.blogspot.com/

ONE , ひとつ - Steve Purcell

2011-04-01T12:24:00.000-07:00

Steve Purcell has given us a mysterious, yet charming piece to salivate over.

"They Meet"
Acrylic on Board
4" x 6"

Steve Purcell is a cartoonist and writer, best known as the creator of comic book characters Sam and Max. He is currently employed in the story development department at Pixar.

http://spudvisionblog.blogspot.com/

ONE , ひとつ - Jonathan Wayshak

2011-04-01T11:51:00.000-07:00

This striking mixed media piece is by John Wayshank

JonathanWAY$HAK has been a freelance illustrator since 1996, after a brief stint as an employee of Target and Media Play. He likes to draw comics and occasionally paint.

La Times Press release..

2011-04-01T10:01:00.000-07:00

Animation Artists converge for Japan disaster relief

Click Here

ONE , ひとつ - Dan McHale

2011-03-31T15:29:00.000-07:00

Dan McHale created an awesome homage piece.

Title: Tiger and Moon (after Hokusai)
Dimensions 11" x 14"
Acrylic on board

Dan McHale is an animator at Maverix Studios

http://web.me.com/danmchale/Site/Dan_McHale_Portfolio.html

ONE , ひとつ, Enrico Casarosa

2011-03-31T15:16:00.000-07:00

This tale tell beautiful piece is titled: 金魚-Kingyo
and is in pencil and watercolor

Size: 11"x14"

" Kingyo : I love to draw japanese streets with strange characters in them, this is taken from a photo I took in Gyon, Kyoto. A fox, a badger and a kappa are mourning over a little dead goldfish."- Enrico

Enrico Casarosa was born and raised in Genoa, Italy in the early 70s. After a couple of years at the University of Engineering spent mostly doodling during classes, Enrico found his calling and moved to Milan to attend Illustration courses at the European Institute of Design. In 1994 he moved to the US to pursue studies in animation and illustration. He studied in New York at the School of Visual Arts and at the Fashion Institute of Technology. He, somewhat proudly, never finished a major at any of the colleges he attended.
Enrico started his career in animation in New York City working for several TV Animation studios and projects in different capacities. He then landed a position at Blue Sky Studios, storyboarding for 20th Century Fox’s ICE AGE.
Enrico moved to San Francisco in 2001 where he’s been since working at Pixar Animation Studios as a story artist on movies like Ratatouille, Up and Cars2. In his free time he has drawn comics, made art books and started an international drawing Marathon event: SketchCrawl.

Visit his site for more information
http://enricocasarosa.com
http://sketchcrawl.com

ONE , ひとつ - Yoriko Ito

2011-03-31T15:12:00.000-07:00

The title for this beautiful piece is " Prayer for the hope"

Size 11.5x 15
Medium Water color, and gouache, silver flake, ink on watercolor paper

-"Thinking the girl, I read the article who lost her parents for the Tsunami, 10 years old girl is survived with her grandma. Her mother was 9 month pregnant.The article said she met the body of her parents and after their funeral she never show her tears again told by her grandma."- Yoriko

Yoriko Ito is originally from Japan.
She lives in California and has been working in the animated feature film industry over the past 15 years in companies such as Dreamworks , PDI & is currently working as a visual development artist at CinderBiter.
She has also published 5 children's books in US.
http://yorikoito.com/

ONE , ひとつ - Mari Inukai

2011-03-31T12:10:00.000-07:00

Mari Inukai contributed this charming flight of fancy!

TOROTOROMARILLAZ II-UMI WO KOETE OIL ON LINEN CANVAS 11''X14''

Mari Inukai was born in Nagoya, Japan. In 1995, Mari came to the US to pursue her studies in art. She first attended Santa Monica Community College (Mentor program), then Associates in Art, Sherman Oaks, CA and finally California Institute of the Arts, Valencia, CA, where she recieved her BFA in Character Animation in 2004. Her professional works include Nickelodeon, New York, Nylon Motion Inc., LA, Oishii Productions, LA, and NGTV, LA. Her short animated film, Blue and Orange, has been an official selection at numerous national and international film festivalss including the Sundance Film Festival 2003, and was the Japanese Grand Prix winner at the Short Shorts Film Festival EXPO 2005. Besides her animation works, Mari regularly exhibits her paintings and drawings, designs clothes, ceramic toy figurines, and other fun products. She lives in Los Angeles with her daughter, Sena.

http://www.mariinukai.com/

ONE , ひとつ Jamie Baker

2011-03-31T11:55:00.000-07:00

This fun and awesome Colour Pencil on Canson Paper piece is titled "Jet-Kid ♥ Hola-Gato"
and measures 9x12 (16x20 in Frame)

-" In trying to do a piece for a show that honours Japan, I started out by thinking of all my favourite Japanese cartoon characters, which is where my love of Japanese culture began (Cartoons is where my love of America began too, incidentally). After a few days of doodling I ended up with this image; MY version of two Japanese Cartoon icons, at the beginning of a beautiful relationship." - James Baker

JAMES BAKER was raised in Australia but now lives in San Francisco, where he is a Freelance Storyboard artist working in Animation (clients include Pixar, LAIKA, SONY and ILM).

http://www.James-baker.com

ONE , ひとつ Jackson Dryden

2011-03-31T11:43:00.000-07:00

Title: Floating Blossom

Size: 12.5"x12.5"

Medium: Ink and gouache

Jackson is currently working at CinderBiter as a junior illustrator.

www.jacksondryden.blogspot.com

ONE , ひとつ Soosa Kim

2011-03-31T11:30:00.000-07:00

Title:
“Together”

Medium: Oil
Size: 14”x14”

-“Together...

walk, smile, touch
sun still high.
we go together."-

Soosa Kim is this crazy Japanese artist friend of mine.
He works for Namco as a concept/CG artist.
He’s the man with stories. Anyone who knows him would know what I mean.
Next time you go out with him, ask him about his Yakuza experience and the stories from his male host days. I heard his stories many times but I still laugh my head off when I hear them.

The poetic story attached to his work , reflecting his fun and interesting personality will suck you in to his world!
http://www.simplestroke.com/wp/?p=550

ONE , ひとつ Ronnie Del Carmen

2011-03-31T11:11:00.000-07:00

This amazing -very touching -Story master Ronnie del Carmen piece is approx

8"x 10"
(11" x 14" framed )

Medium: Gouache
Title: "Tearful Alice in waves"

-"I attended the grand Mary Blair show in Japan last year. It was a pilgrimage of the faithful.

I was enraptured all over again. But even better it was curated and collected in Japan.
Japan is a very special place for me personally.
In that same trip we also went to Tokyo Disneyland and Disney Seas. Spectacular. And yet throughout that trip all I wanted to do was to be on the streets of Tokyo and meet the people, visit friends and see the neighborhoods again.
Japan is my Disneyland. I wish for all to be well and a swift recovery." -Ronnie

Ronnie del Carmen is currently working for Pixar Animation Studios in Emeryville. Prior to that he's worked at Dreamworks and Warner Bros.

He self-publishes his own comic book, Paper Biscuit.

He is maintained by his wife and kids and is not allowed too much peanut butter.

http://www.ronniedelcarmen.com/

ONE , ひとつ Noah Klocek

2011-03-31T11:03:00.000-07:00

Noah Klocek, is currently working as Art Director at Pixar animation studios
This cheerful & beautiful piece is titled "Jumping Frog of Calaveras and i County"

6"x6" in Pastel

The piece was inspired by Mark Twains short story, and is titled

"The Notorious Jumping Frog of Calaveras County."
http://imageblock.blogspot.com/

ONE , ひとつ video

2011-03-30T21:50:00.000-07:00

"One" / Artists Help Japan Event Promotional Video from Curio on Vimeo.

JOIN US FOR THE UPCOMING SILENT AUCTION PARTY for the rare chance to bring home original art from celebrated artists in the animation & film industry.

LOCATION
SuperFrog Gallery, 1746 Post Street, New People building, top floor
San Francisco, CA 94115
www.newpeopleworld.com/visit

APRIL 2, 2011
Gallery doors open at noon | Bidding + Party starts 7pm
silent auction bidding ends at 9:30pm

ONE , ひとつ - Miya Ando

2011-03-30T21:24:00.000-07:00

Title: 'Kuni' [Oinori 1]
'Country' [Prayer 1]

Size: 12" x 12"

Medium: steel

date 2011

This stunning piece comes from New York based Japanese and Russian artist Miya Ando.

Miya is a descendant of Bizen swordmaker Ando Yoshiro Masakatsu and was raised between two worlds: among sword smiths-turned Buddhist priests in a Buddhist temple in Okayama, Japan and Santa Cruz, California

In her work, Miya creates quiet, abstract & meditative environments with metal.
Miya is interested in the study of subtraction to the point of purity, simplicity and refinement.

http://miyaando.com/

ONE , ひとつ - Alexandra Boiger

2011-03-30T17:09:00.000-07:00

Title: Dreaming Sausage
Medium: Watercolor
Size: 10.5 x 11
with frame: 13 x 16

Bio:
Alexandra Boiger has illustrated several award-winning picture and
chapter books. She started her career in feature animation, where she
worked for such studios as Warner Bros. UK and Dreamworks Animation.
Originally from Munich, Germany she now lives in California with her
husband and daughter.

http://alexandraboigerillustration.blogspot.com/
www.alexandraboiger.com

ONE , ひとつ - Andrea Blasich

2011-03-30T16:19:00.000-07:00

A wonderful sculpture by Andrea Blasich will be up for auction at the benefit.

http://andreablasich.blogspot.com/

ONE , ひとつ - Mark Sperber

2011-03-30T16:09:00.000-07:00

Art piece by Mark Sperber, title “Band Aid” pencil-watercolor-gouache
Art piece approx’ size 7 1/2 x 9 1/2’’
Framed in 11 3/4 x 15 3/4’’

Mark says:
"I graduated from Sheridan College with a BAA in Animation. Worked freelance for a bit and pursued my career in animation out west in LA. Worked at Renegade Animation Studio (Freelance) and at Six Point Harness Studio and now am working at Nickelodeon."
http://marksperberart.blogspot.com/

ONE , ひとつ - Jennifer C. Chang

2011-03-30T14:46:00.000-07:00

An adorable and serene work of art from Jennifer C. Chang.

"It was Quiet"
Watercolor & Pencil
10"X7"

Jennifer is a Concept Artist at Pixar Animation Studios. Take a look at more of her lovely work:

http://www.jennifer-chang.com/
http://kitosan.blogspot.com/

ONE , ひとつ - Kent Williams

2011-03-30T14:30:00.000-07:00

This piece comes from powerhouse artist Kent Williams and a pleasure to have it as part of the greater effort to help Japan.

"Standing Female (left)"

mixed media on paper

16"X15"

Kent Williams has built up a formidable reputation as a powerful contemporary figurative painter. His is a bold realism with combined attributes of abstraction and neo-expressionistic sensibilities. His work is characterized by strong gestural forms combined with areas of arresting detail, rendered with rich dynamic brushwork.

Williams’ approach to his subjects is often subjective and intense. Whether through multi-figured compositional complexity and suggestive narrative, or with the straight-forward lone human form, there is often autobiographical narrative at play. Favorite models, friends, and the artist himself all play a role in the human story of his paintings.

http://www.kentwilliams.com

http://kentwilliams.blogspot.com

ONE , ひとつ, Nathan Stanton

2011-03-30T13:57:00.000-07:00

Nathan Stanton has contributed to the cause and it is much appreciated. A nicely composed pen and ink with prismacolor pencil.

"Floating"
9"X16"

Nathan is Head of Story at Pixar. Story Boarding credits include: A BUGS LIFE, TOY STORY 2, MONSTERS, INC. , FINDING NEMO, RATATOUILLE , WALL-E , BRAVE (releasing in spring 2012) , currently Head of Story on CARS 2 (releasing on June 24, 2011).

ONE , ひとつ, Dice Tsutsumi

2011-03-30T12:26:00.000-07:00

Dice Tsutsumi's work is always inspiring and this is no exception. A truly uplifting scenario.

"One --- Artists Help Japan"

14"X11"

Oil On Board

www.simplestroke.com

Born and raised in Tokyo, Dice moved to NY in ‘93. After graduating from School of Visual Arts in 98, he started his career as a staff illustrator for Lucas Learning Ltd. in San Francico. Two years later, Dice moved back to NY to work for Blue Sky Studios as a visual development/color key artist on their film projects such as Ice Age, Robots and Horton Hears A Who. In 2007, after his long adventurous 7 year run at Blue Sky Studios, he has accepted the new challenge to join as an art director at Pixar Animation Studios. Dice was the color and lighting art director of Pixar’s latest feature Toy Story 3.

Dice has actively been pursuing his illustration career outside of animation as well. His first children’s book I can Hear was published in Japan 2009.

Dice also believes in fun charity project and was one of the organizers of Totoro Forest Project and Sketchtravel Project.

ONE , ひとつ - Tom Rubalcava

2011-03-30T12:13:00.000-07:00

It seems that the theme of snow monkeys has a warm place in many hearts. Here's Tom Rubalcava's ink and marker piece - "Macaque is Warm".

8"X10" on bristol.

Tom has worked for two decades in television, advertising, and feature film animation. Tom was Character Sculptor and Effects Animator on the Warner Bros/Lorimar Gumby Adventures‚ TV series (1987-1988) and Gumby Movie‚ the stop-motion feature film (1991). In 1991 at Colossal Pictures, Tom’s Animation Direction debut Coca-Cola Watch‚ won a Clio Award. In 2000 he became Co-Partner at Way Out West Prods in San Francisco. Tom joined Maverix Studios in October of 2002 and is a dedicated principal member of the group.

http://www.trubalcava.com/blog/

ONE , ひとつ - Sergio Paez

2011-03-30T11:57:00.000-07:00

Sergio Paez of Storyboard.org has offered up this piece, a vividly rendered pastel. At size 13"X20" it will definitely attract a lot of attention!

Sergio Paez is a San Francisco artist specializing in storyboards, animation, and visual development for TV, feature film, and games. His animation credits in the United States and Europe include projects for Pixar, Lucasfilm, Sony, and Sega.

ONE , ひとつ Pre Registration

2011-03-30T11:44:00.000-07:00

Hi all,

We are pre-registering all potential bidders for the Japan benefit auction this Saturday in order to cut down on the "waiting in line" time at the event.

If you plan to bid on some of the 50+ amazing pieces (http://maverixstudios.blogspot.com), please send the following info to Xiaojing at PUREXJ@GMAIL.COM

First & last name
Billing address
Email
Phone

Once you are registered, you will receive a BIDDER NUMBER to use for the auction. All information will remain CONFIDENTIAL.

Thanks!

ONE , ひとつ , Alex Puvilland

2011-03-29T23:15:00.000-07:00

This beautiful 11x14. ink on paper piece is titled 'hot, cold'

The original of this awesome piece will be sold on april 2 @ the ONE , ひとつ
Maverix Art Auction Benefit for Japan Relief

Alexandre lives in San Francisco with his equally talented wife and son and has worked in many Dreamworks features

http://www.alexpuvilland.com/

ONE , ひとつ , Joey chou

2011-03-29T15:50:00.000-07:00

This pretty and fun piece Joey Chou is titled: New Blossoms
Media: Acrylic on watercolor paper
Size: 11 inches by 14.75 inches

Joey is an artist based in LA ,currently working at Nickelodeon.

http://joeyart.blogspot.com/

The original of this awesome piece will be sold on april 2 @ the ONE , ひとつ
Maverix Art Auction Benefit for Japan Relief

ONE , ひとつ , Sei Nakashima

2011-03-28T16:50:00.000-07:00

Another beautiful piece , this wonderful piece comes in from LA.

Sei san is currently art directing the next Chipmunks movie @ Rhythm & Hues studios

Title: " I will remember You"
Medium: Gouache on Paper
Size: 19 x 24 inch

http://www.seinakashima.com/

The original of this piece will be sold on april 2 @ the ONE , ひとつ
Maverix Art Auction Benefit for Japan Relief

ONE , ひとつ , Todd Uyeminami

2011-03-27T00:49:00.000-07:00

This dream like 6"x 8" ,beautiful oil painting , is entitled "Wistful Warblers" and comes from
Todd Uyeminami

Todd is a visual development artist in the film and video game industries

http://toddartblog.blogspot.com/

ONE , ひとつ , Scott Morse

2011-03-25T18:37:00.000-07:00

This awesome piece is titled
"THE SUN KEEPS RISING"

Cell vinyl on clayboard
9"x12"

Scott is a storyteller, illustrator & filmmaker.You can find more about Scott here :
http://scottmorse.blogspot.com/

ONE , ひとつ , Tooru Terada (From Saitama, Japan)

2011-03-25T14:16:00.000-07:00

This beautiful piece is coming from Saitama in Japan .

Tooru is living the effects of the earthquake in Japan as he send us this his contribution and those words :

"It's difficult to put my feelings about this disaster in "words"
A lot of thoughts went through my head during this days.

Japan is in a very tragic moment , but
your prayers are reaching us in Japan.

Thank you so much for your support"

in Japanese :

"Konkai no jishinn ni saishi, jibun no kimochi wo
kotoba de hyougen suruno ha totemo muzukashii desu.
Jishinn irai, watashi ha takusan kangaemashita.
Soshite kono e wo kakimashita.

Sorezore ni kanjite kudasai.
Nihon ha hukkou he mukai hajimemasu.

Sekai no hitobito no pray ha shikkari Japan ni todoite imasu.
Hontou ni arigatou."

Tooru Terada is a freelance illustrator, cartoonist, published in Japan and France
http://toruterada.exblog.jp/

The original of this awesome piece will be sold on april 2 @ the ONE , ひとつ
Maverix Art Auction Benefit for Japan Relief

ONE , ひとつ , Julia Lundman

2011-03-25T13:19:00.000-07:00

The next up is this thoughtful piece by Julia Lundman .

"Peace Pagoda", Measures 11x16 , and is painted with pastels

Julia is a Senior Illustrator at Zynga by day and painter of fairies and other spritely creatures by night.

In her words :

"I did this piece from life with some interpretation for the January World Wide Sketch Crawl It was a challenge, to be sure. I have always admired the structure; now that I've attempted to construct it, my appreciation of the architecture has deepened. All of those ellipses stacking up toward the heavens...I wonder if the artist meant to suggest that all of them together, stacking up in diminishing degrees, points toward a greater peace.

This plaza was filled with the hectic noise and bustle of the city. I edited out bus stops, street lamps, ugly steel fences and even edited out the large crowd. I felt the Peace Pagoda, deserved to be honored as a focal point. Although, I couldn't help myself - I took a few irresistible artistic liberties with the top, simplifying and exaggerating the shapes. They reminded me so much of the kind of thing the great Mary Blair would have designed. Fitting, I thought, as it really is a small world after all.

More about Julia
http://julialundmanmidlock.blogspot.com/

The original of this wonderful piece will be sold on april 2 @ the ONE , ひとつ
Maverix Art Auction Benefit for Japan Relief

ONE , ひとつ , Alina Chau

2011-03-24T13:39:00.000-07:00

Our next donation comes in from the talented Alina Chau. A 3d storyartist and traditional painter.

"There is no words that could adequately releave the Japanese people from all the lost and devastation from the recent earthquake.
However in a small way, our humble contribution could help bring hope and support to the people in need." -Alina

Alina currently works at LucasFilm as a 3d Storyartist on the Clone Wars tv series.

"Ice-Cream Monster Toon Cafe"
http://alinanimation.blogspot.com/

ONE , ひとつ , Derek Thompson

2011-03-23T21:12:00.000-07:00

Here is our second piece , another meaningful piece by MonsterMaster , and Maverix member Derek Thompson.

Title: "GAMERA: Guardian Of The Universe:Friend Of The Children:Earth Protector"

Media: Graphite, Sharpie Marker, Prisma Pencil& Marker on Canson Paper

Size : Artwork:8.5"x11"Frame:17.5"x14.5"

Derek's works :

"I always loved GAMERA growing up...a daikaiju who represents hope and positivity..'Guardian of the Universe', 'Friend of the Children' and 'Earth Protector' . In this time of crisis in Japan, Gamera seemed to be a perfect icon for HOPE...and he's FUN to draw!"

Derek is a Story Artist @ Pixar Animation Studios / Creature Designer and Concept Artist for Feature Films / Comic Book Artist and Painter
http://derekmonster.blogspot.com/

This fun piece with our most beloved monster Gamera will be sold on april 2 @ the ONE , ひとつ

Maverix Art Auction Benefit for Japan Relief

ONE , ひとつ , Patrick Awa

2011-03-23T20:17:00.000-07:00

The first pieces are coming , this beautiful piece by Patrick Awa is called
"Anonymous hug " .

Size: 19x13(the painting by itself) about 26x18(w/frame)
Media: Watercolor, Acrylic and Gold ink on Rives Paper

This is what Patrick says about this piece :
"The basic idea was to draw miscellaneous figures with their hands holding each other as tight as they could at the moment of reunion, making a sphere-like shape together, which I also hoped to represent connection and compassion I have received from all over the world. And even though this might be a little "one" to start with in front of massive damage, hopefully together we can become "ONE" to make a difference. "

The original of this meaningful piece will be sold on april 2 @ the ONE , ひとつ
Maverix Art Auction Benefit for Japan Relief

Limited number of prints of this wonderful piece is on sale here for a very short time :
http://1xrun.com/runs/Anonymous_Hu

All proceeds of the sales will be donated 100% to ArtistHelpJapan Fund

Patrick Awa is a Character Designer/Concept Artist in animated feature films.
He would like to be a good fencer with a couple of brushes one day...
http://www.patrickawa.net/

Personally I think he is already amazing ;)

ONE , ひとつ

2011-03-22T11:18:00.000-07:00

Maverix Art Auction Benefit for Japan Relief
Together we can become "ONE" to make a difference

Saturday April 2nd
Gallery Doors open at noon
...Party + bidding war starts 7 pm
Silent Auction Bidding ends at 930 pm

Join us for the upcoming silent auction party , for the rare chance to
bring home original art from celebrated artists in the animation & film industry
(Pixar, LucasFilms, Dreamworks, Nickelodeon to name a few )
including:

Dice Tsusumi, Robert Valley,
Ronnie Del Carmen, Enrico Casarosa,
Scott Morse, Bill Presing,Steve Purcell,
Lou Romano,Cam De Leon, Tooru Terada,
Daniel Simon, John Wayshak,Dan Mchale,
Patrick Awa,Joey Chou, Ed Bell,
Todd Ueminami, Marcos Mateu,
Mari Inukai ,Yoriko Ito, Jackie Huang,
Soosa Kim, Jamie Baker, Alina Chou, Oren Haskins,
Sei Nakashima, Julia Lundman, Le Tang,Mark Sperber,
Ted Mathot ,Tom Rubalcava, Derek Thompson,
Sho Murase, Sergio Paez, Vaughn Ross,Nate Stanton...

... also critically acclaimed fine artists such as Miya Ando ,Kent Williams....and many more !

SuperFrog , Maverix and ArtistsHelpJapan are donating 100% of all proceeds to Artists Help Japan Fund with Mercy Corps.

http://artistshelpjapan.blogspot.com/
http://www.mercycorps.org/fundraising/artistshelpjapan

There will be appetizers and drinks , live DJ sets by
DJ Dedan(www.brothersandsisters.podomatic.com)
and DJ Cecil(http://www.djcecil.com/)

ひとつ（"HITOTSU") means "One" which is the first number of all but also mean "United" in Japanese.
Our action might be a little "one" to start with, but we can get together
and become "ONE" to make a difference.

http://www.newpeopleworld.com/visit/

Root Branch Profiles 11 12 13 14 15 16 17

2009-12-09T21:33:00.000-08:00

Artists are shy. That's why they don't respond to these profile requests... or at least, that's what I tell myself when I cry myself to sleep at night. Some are so shy that I must dig around the www to find tidbits of biographical information. Good thing I'm super ethical and won't cheapen this site by fabricating juicy gossip about Root Branch artists 11-17 to spread like wildfire through the blogosphere!

# 11 CHRISTOPHER CARTER

A Maverix Studios co-founder, Christopher Carter is a veteran traditional Animator/Story Board Artist and has worked with clients such as Proctor and Gamble, MTV, Coca-Cola, Nike, Sprint and Sony. He earned an MFA in Fine Art/ Sculpture from U.C. Berkeley in 1995 and in 2003-2004 returned as a visiting Lecturer. He received the James T. Phelan and Ira Kroenig Scholarship for outstanding achievement and more recently a grant for a site-specific sculpture at Art Basel Miami. His work was recently acquired by the Grand Rapids Art Museum for their reopening in 2007. Carter is continually creating and working on exploring new themes and materials with his art. He shows regularly throughout the USA and the Caribbean.

(Chris once competed with our governator Schwarzenegger for Mr. Universe. Sadly he lost, and dashed all Californians' hopes for real tax and budget reform.)

# 12 ENRICO CASAROSA

Enrico Casarosa has been in the animation industry for more than ten years, drawing storyboards that fit into large animated feature films. Currently a story artist at Pixar Animation Studios Enrico continues his quest to create more hours in the day by drawing alternate realities. Sooner or later his experiments will break through and we’ll all have to buy new watches. Meantime he just published an art book “3 trees make a forest” with partners in crime Ronnie del Carmen and Tadahiro Uesugi. Other times he pursues his muse by traveling with his watercolors and sketchbooks. Enrico is the founder of “SketchCrawl”, a world wide drawing marathon event that gathers artists from all around the globe.

Listen to an interview with Enrico at IllustrationMundo here.

Read an interview with Enrico at GhibliWorld.com here.

(Enrico once played for the Italian national soccer team: see if you can spot him here.)

# 13 MIKE JUDGE

(Mike likes hamburgers but he doesn't eat meat. It has stunted his growth.)

# 14 TED MATHOT

About Me: Storyboard supervisor at Pixar Animation Studios

Favorite Movies

Favorite Music

Favorite Books

(Ted just won the 6th season of Top Chef with his classic ratatouille dish, beating out both Voltaggio brothers and the adorable red-bearded dwarf creature from Atlanta.)

# 15 SHO MURASE

Sho is Japanese-Korean. She studied Graphic Design, Fine Arts, Cinematography and Psychology in Spain, where she grew up. She graduated in 2d animation from the Vancouver Film School.

Her first color graphic novel "SEI" was published by Image Comics in 2003. Since then she has created "ME2" and illustrated over a dozen graphic novels including the graphic novel adaption series of Nancy Drew, currently in volume 20.

Her animation work has been nominated in various Animation Film Festivals, including Annecy, Zagreb, Mendrisio and Chicago International A. F. Sho's work in advertisement stretches from Europe to the U.S., and her list of clients include brands such as Nike, Virgin, Mattel, Evian, Sony, and Electronic Arts.

Her art has been exhibited at galleries around the world, including the German Film Museum in Frankfurt and the Louisiana Modern Art Museum in Denmark.

(Sho is the ultimate couch potato who sits around all day and night, takes long naps, watches reality TV, and Does Not Work At All. Like NEVER.)

# 16 BOSCO NG

(Bosco has made billions selling high quality electronics to people around the world... like the Russian Mafia, the Shanghai Triad, and the Corleone Family.)

# 17 VAUGHN ROSS

A Maverix co-founder and partner, Vaughn Ross, has worked in animation for more than a decade, including significant tenures at Colossal Pictures and Wild Brain Inc. Vaughn contributes technical animation direction for the feature short “Oasis” created by Ed Bell. Vaughn currently work for Lucasfilm as a 3D storyboard artist on the “Clone Wars” animated tv series.

ROBERT VALLEY: Root Branch Profile #10

2009-12-08T19:56:00.000-08:00

The legend of Robert Valley. I heard of this dude long before I met him. I believe he started the Maverix co-op! After stints in and out of the U.S. of A., this nomad is now in NYC I believe but gracing us with his presence at the show this Thursday. I stole his bio from Story Board Art (don't tell Sergio).

BIO

A bad ass Story Artist, a rocking Animator- Robert Valley is awesome

Robert Valley is an animation artist whose work is always on the cutting edge. Robert’s work is all over spots for Nike, Coca-Cola, the Gorillaz music videos, Aeon Flux with Peter Chung, and many others. Most recently Robert’s work was all a buzz with his latest Beatles Rock Band trailer. Although he didn’t direct the spot, Robert’s style and influence can be seen all over the project. Always an approachable and humble leader in the visual field, he is a pioneer in visual styles and filmmaking.

Robert’s style is edgy and unique always pushing the extreme angles and innovative shots. For a great example of his storyboard work check out the DVD extras in “Dark Fury The Chronicles of Riddick” directed by Peter Chung.

You can buy exclusive copies of Robert’s new book “Massive Swerve 2009″ here.

Watch the Beatles Rock Bank trailer here. COOOOOOOOOOL!

TOM RUBALCAVA: Root Branch Profile #9

2009-12-07T19:42:00.000-08:00

To the untrained eye, Tom Rubalcava is calm, collected, the epitome of the cool artist guy. However, buried not far beneath the surface is a giant gorilla, the tragic antihero, surrounded by flying, half-naked fairy ladies, gently caressing his furry head. Oh wait... that's just the art.

For reals, Tom's 2d art is a testament to the flawless style of traditional comics and the man can sculpt anything! As President of Maverix Studios, Tom share many traits with our nation's fearless leader, President Obama. You'll have to ask him what those are when you see him at the show.

BIO

Tom Rubalcava has been an artist since he won a contest in a local newspaper when he was 7 years old. He spent the ensuing years dreaming and drawing comics until in high school he saw King Kong and the Seventh Voyage of Sinbad. With a new passion to see his art move, coupled with newly discovered sculpting abilities Tom went on to work in Television and Motion Pictures as an animator, sculptor and designer of prosthetic make up and physical effects. He is a skilled digital artist but continues to work with traditional mediums to keep his work grounded.

Check out Tom's more extensive bio here. Amongst other accomplishments, Tom worked as a director at Colossal Pictures (earning a Clio Award) and co-founded Way Out West Productions. Tom started out in animation doing special effects for the Rats of Nimh (classic!)

When did you first start to draw/create and what inspired you to do it?
When I was a kid I was fascinated by the art in Mad magazine - Mort Drucker was the best.

What is your favorite color and why?
Azure blue. It's a color that drapes the distant horizon and reminds of vast landscapes that I've been privileged to see and always keeps me hoping to see more.

What kind of music (or other aural environments) do you listen to when you work and why?
Oddly enough, I get distracted by music when I'm working - thinking about what next to play. I'm actually more productive in quieter surroundings. I relax with music - I don't relax so much when I work. That's bad - isn't it.

No Tom, great work requires great concentration and NO RELAXATION ALLOWED!! I just wonder how you survived being in the same room with Disco Vaughn for so long.

DEREK THOMPSON: Root Branch Profile #8

2009-12-04T17:18:00.000-08:00

BOOOO!!! Scared ya? Then get ready for Derek Monsters! I don't know how he does it but our star of the day churns out one peculiar monster after another. He even sells a book filled with 365 monsters, to satisfy your monster cravings for every day of the year. (The monster we have bids his time, hiding in the kitchen behind a giant lamp, just waiting to pounce on an unsuspecting stranger).

Better start bidding now on Derek's 7+ monsters in the exhibit. They are always in high demand and I know of one person in particular (hint: redhead) who is trying to fill out her already substantial collection. I've spied Derek hard at work, painting away in the backroom recesses of Maverix Studios and they look awesome!

BIO

Story Artist
Pixar Animation Studios

Derek Thompson received a BFA in Illustration from Otis/Parsons, and landed his first job for Dark Horse Comics while still attending college. He has worked professionally for over 14 years for a number of studios, including Rhythm & Hues, Lucasfilm and Electronic Arts. Derek has worked in a variety of disciplines, including storyboarding, visual development and creature design. He has contributed to numerous film projects, including Men in Black, The Mummy films, Star Wars: Episode 3 and WALL-E. In his free time, Derek paints abstract art and continues to self-publish collections of his monster drawings and comics. Derek is currently employed as a Story Artist for Pixar Animation Studios.

When did you first start to draw/create and what inspired you to do it?
i've been drawing since i was a little kid...i've always felt a deep rooted passion for monsters, dinosaurs, robots and more. movies, comics and books have been steady and important inspirations for me.

What is your favorite color and why?
aaagh..that's a hard one! i'll have to say GREEN , because i remember that was my FIRST favorite color. the color of forests and emeralds and dragon scales...

What kind of music (or other aural environments) do you listen to when you work and why?

i listen to all kinds of music while i work. i find movie soundtrack music very helpful when i'm storyboarding, and GODZILLA music is great for when i'm painting monsters. generally, though, i prefer an eclectic range of music, everything from Blues to Reggae, Industrial and Trance, from Jazz to Bluegrass... i like it all!

JACKIE HUANG: Root Branch Profile #7

2009-12-03T20:48:00.001-08:00

For anyone who attended this year's ComiCon, you will recognize Jackie Huang by the throngs of enthralled fangirls and boys gathered around his table, oooo'in and awwww'in over his wool creations. Jackie hand-makes these magical creatures by painstakingly poking at pieces of wool until he creates their distinct shapes and features. He is a one-man sweatshop. Sadly I say this because I just can't see how

(the amount he charges for wool buddies) - (the amount of time he spends on wood buddies X decent hourly wage) = a positive dollar figure.

For his day job, Jackie is the second Lucas Story Artist in a row to grace this blog.

BIO

Jackie was born and raised in Taipei, Taiwan, and currently lives in the Bay Area USA. He works in the Animation industry as a 3D story artist. In 2009, Jackie started the WoolBuddy project, creating unique needle felted wool characters. They are so creative, cute, and hilarious all at the same time.

When did you first start to draw/create and what inspired you to do it?
I started making wool buddies about a year ago because my daughter (2 years old) needed toys and I couldn't find any non-plastic ones.

What is your favorite color and why?

Any earth tone color, and I don't know why.

What kind of music (or other aural environments) do you listen to when you work and why?

I don't listen to any music especially when I am working (can't focus). The only time I listen to music is when I'm driving alone... keeps me awake.

I can't wait to see which wool buddies Jackie brings to the show. I admit I own two - a mini totoro and a dobbit (i.e. a genetically engineered dog crossed with rabbit). Check out these photos of Jackie in a GIANT totoro wool buddy outfit for Halloween!

OCTAVIO RODRIGUEZ: Root Branch Profile #6

2009-12-02T20:32:00.000-08:00

This blog is making a liar of me - I'm not sticking to my own blogging schedule but I will persevere!

Our star profilee today is the recent Bay Area arrival and veteran story artist Octavio Rodriguez. And I say veteran not because he's old (really!!) but because Octavio's been a part of so many animation institutions and choice projects (see his bio below). His own books, which you can purchase on his blog, are full of poignant stories narrated through the cutest illustrations. Octavio is one hard working dude!

Bio
Octavio Rodriguez is a story artist who has been in the animation industry for over 14 years where he has also helped with the development of characters and show ideas. Octavio has worked for Nickelodeon, Sony, Warner Brothers, Disney, Cartoon Network, Starz/IDT, Rough Draft, Titmouse, Epoch Ink, and is currently employed by Lucasfilm where he's working on the TV series "Clone Wars." Octavio has self-published his own line of sketchbooks, comics, and short stories as well as co-created cartoonmojo.com, a website that celebrates the world of animation by showcasing the best films and the talented people who create them.

When did you first start to draw/create and what inspired you to do it?
It all started in junior high, I couldn't get enough of reading French comics and Mangas. I grew to admire the draftsmanship from my favorite comic and graphic novel artists. Before I knew it, I found myself creating extensive bios of my own characters. Those drawings and bios eventually became comics that I would sell to other kids in school. I was, and still am, completely fascinated with being able to tell a story through sequential art.

What is your favorite color and why?

Red-orange, especially in my art. I love the feel of it popping on the page. It just seems natural.

What kind of music (or other aural environments) do you listen to when you work and why?

Can't live without my iTunes radio. My favorite station hands down is- "Secret Agent: The soundtrack for your stylish, mysterious, dangerous life." I love drawing to it, it breathes life in me. The music meshes with my style, and it inspires my line work.

... so I have to sign off this post by congratulating Mr. Rodriguez on his recent nuptials to the beautiful and talented Elizabeth Quintero Rodriguez. I will refrain from further embarrassing Octavio by posting a picture of him on his wedding day, looking as nervous as a long tailed cat in a room full of rocking chairs (I've always wanted to use that cliche!)

C. J. Guzman : Root Branch Profile #5

2009-11-30T17:07:00.000-08:00

I love C. J. not only because once in a while, he puppysits our little terror (I mean... terrier) or because he's mysterious (what does the C and J stand for??) or even because he's genius color master and artist (see above), but because he's just such a nice guy. Now that I've thoroughly embarrassed him, let's see what C. J. has to say about himself.

Bio

FUNCTION: AIR COMMANDER 
"Conquest is made of the ashes of one's enemies."

Seeks to replace Megatron as leader. Ruthless, coldblooded, cruel… considers himself the most sophisticated and handsome of the Decepticons. Believes Decepticons should rely more on guile and speed rather than brute force to defeat Autobots. Fastest flyer of group, can reach Mach 2.8 and an altitude of 52 miles. Shoots cluster bombs and null-rays which disrupts flow of electricity. Very good at what he does, but sometimes overrates himself.

Um... ok. C. J. forgets to add that he has legions of fangirls and boys due to his brilliant backgrounds and color work on the Nancy Drew (girl detective) graphic novel series. He is also a veteran of the video game industry and has worked with Maverix for many years on projects for National Geographic and Scion, among others. C. J. is also on the team for the animated short-film-in-progress, Oasis.

・When did you first start to draw/create and what inspired you to do it?

I started the minute my baby hands could hold a writing tool.

・What is your favorite color and why?

Hmmm ... I really don't have one. I like bright and happy colors tho.

・What kind of music (or other aural environments) do you listen to when you work and why?

When I'm in crunch mode I will have "Fear and Loathing in Las Vegas" movie playing in an endless loop till my project is done.

When working on personal stuff I listen to Phantasy Star online episode 1 and 2 soundtrack..... it's quite choice!

He's a funny one, this Mr. Carlos Jose Guzman.

DICE TSUTSUMI: Root Branch Profile #4

2009-11-30T13:41:00.000-08:00

Dear faithful readers, my apologies for settling into a deep Thanksharing food sleep and neglecting this blog. To make up for my laziness, we shall have 2 (yes TWO) profiles per day this week.

To start off, we have a special treat for you. I first saw Dice Tsutsumi's work at a Maverix auction and was blown away by his amazing use of color and his unique, 3-d, modern yet old school style (this is the amateur art purveyor talking). Dice was also the brain train behind the hugely successful Totoro Forest Project, an art auction and exhibition that raised almost $200,000 for the Totoro Forest Foundation! Totoro and the Cat Bus can now live in peace, free from urban sprawl and us pesky humans. The image above is his contribution to the Totoro exhibit, while a work in progress.

Bio

Born and raised in Tokyo, Dice moved to NY in ‘93. After graduating from School of Visual Arts in 98, he started his career as a staff illustrator for Lucas Learning Ltd. in San Fransisco. Two years later, Dice moved back to NY to work for Blue Sky Studios as a visual development/color key artist on their blockbuster film projects such as Ice Age, Robots and upcoming Horton Hears A Who. After his long adventurous 7 year run at Blue Sky Studios, he has recently accepted the new challenge to join as an art director at Pixar Animation Studios.

Dice has actively been pursuing his illustration career outside of animation as well. His graphic novel, Noche y Dia is a part of critically acclaimed anthology Out of Picture. He is currently working on this second graphic novel, Dream of Kyosuke for Out of Picture issue #2. He also has been involved with a few potential children’s book projects.

Meanwhile, Dice continues to create his plein air oil paintings that have been featured in numerous gallery exhibitions. His oil paintings are expected to be featured in this 3 man show next June with Soosa Kim and Lou Romano.

Dice currently lives in San Francisco.

Impressive, no? Here are Dice's answers to our 3 questions:

・When did you first start to draw/create and what inspired you to do it?

I only took a drawing class because I couldn't speak English when I first came to the States but then my old classmates complimented my work which lead me to innocently believe I was good.

・What is your favorite color and why?

I don't know~~

・What kind of music (or other aural environments) do you listen to when you work and why?

It really depends. I love all sorts of music but I tend to focus better when I listen to Jazz.

Can't wait to see Dice's contribution to the Root Branch Exhibit!

SERGIO PAEZ: Root Branch Profile #3

2009-11-25T11:24:00.000-08:00

While most folks are brining turkeys, stuffing turduckens, and prepping tofurkeys today, we present for your reading pleasure, our 3rd profile of the Root Branch Winter Exhibit, Mr. Sergio Paez. Most people who've met his acquaintance, particularly at this year's ComiCon, know that Sergio is the ultimate hustler. And we mean that as a giant compliment. The man has skillz! He is also a talented artist and storyboard extraordinaire who hosts an online community for storytelling and sequential art, and teaches a storyboard series at Maverix Studios. Can we add that Sergio is a committed libertarian (check out his painting of Ron Paul above... perhaps Rep. Paul will use it for his next presidential campaign, a la Shepard Fairey & Prez Obama).

Bio
Sergio is a San Francisco artist specializing in storyboards, animation, and visual development for TV, Feature film, and games. His animation credits in the United States and Europe include projects for Lucasfilm, Pixar, Sony, and Sega. As an independent filmmaker Sergio's work has been shown at the Los Angeles International Film Festival, the North Hampton Film Festival, and Microcinefest in Baltimore. Most recently Sergio's work was featured in "The Art of Darkwatch" published by Design Studio Press.

・When did you first start to draw/create and what inspired you to do it?

I was probably about 3 years old playing with crayons and copying my brother's drawings. I still remember dividing my paper into squares and coloring in the shapes with different crayons. Not much has changed since then. Except now the shapes get more complicated and our egos fill the squares instead of simple color.

・What is your favorite color and why?

Blue. because it can make you feel blue. But if you look deeper it might be bluegreen or blueviolet. Then you're not blue at all. Your more in the clouds flying around or playing in the water with the fishes. If you turn that blue upside down you might get orange. I love orange juice.

・What kind of music (or other aural environments) do you listen to when you work and why?

None. Don't you know what Milt Kahl said about playing music while you work? Shut that hippie music off and concentrate on making some art. The only Nirvana you should hear is the sound of your soul reaching heaven when you focus your chi and CREATE!

Haha! I think we must now request some extra hippie music for the Root Branch show in Sergio's honor.

ED BELL: Root Branch Profile #2

2009-11-24T11:09:00.000-08:00

Up next is one of the core members of the Maverix family, the one and only, award-winning director and creative soul, Mr. Ed Bell. He contributed the gorgeous, dreamlike image on the Root Branch Exhibit promotional materials. Ed is also the creator of the Oasis short film project-in-progress. Check out some Oasis work here and here. If you are very rich and want to fund an unusual, provocative, and beautiful film, please contact Maverix.

Bio
Ed Bell is a filmmaker, director, animation artist, and modern day griot. A native of South Central Los Angeles, he went to California Institute of the Arts for their film and video program. Since that time he has been involved in bringing art to life in various forms. His directing and artistic credits include both film and commercials for clients such as HBO, Warner Brothers, Disney Features, Nike, Sony, and BBC Television. He is an affiliated commercial director with Special Agent Productions, and is currently collaborating on a graphic novel with comedic horror writer, Michael Boatman. You can see more of Ed's work here.

... A.K.A. Ed is a rock star. Here are his free flow answers to our 3 questions.

・When did you first start to draw/create and what inspired you to do it?

I can't remember, but imagine I have always enjoyed the pencil and paper somehow. It's always been important to be making things with my hands. drawing, sculpting, carpentry, set building and photography. If I could have grown up to be D'angelo or Andre 3000, I'd be doing it the way they do, but I learned early on to stick with images and ideas. One day, I'll be good enough to express that "soul" through things I create.

・What is your favorite color and why?

Okay, speaking just for the moment, my favorite color is rust red. It's my son's hue. The perfect color!

・What kind of music (or other aural environments) do you listen to when you work and why?

The art going into this exhibit was created in a musical cocoon of mixes by our usual crew: CASAMENA, DEDAN, Cecil, dj Hanif... as well as Chebi Saba and some Prince.

...This man has very good taste y'all! Check out Ed's blog to peruse more of his beautiful artwork.

PATRICK AWA: Root Branch Profile #1

2009-11-23T16:42:00.000-08:00

Inaugurating the Maverix Root Branch Exhibit artist profiles is the L.A. based, consistent Maverix auction top bid-getter, and ever awesome Patrick Awa. And speaking of Maverix auctions, the image above was one of his past contributions, and I'd love to buy, steal, and/or borrow it from the lucky bidder, whoever you are.

Bio

Born in Santa Monica, California, Patrick grew up in Tokyo and began his career working for a Japanese CGI production studio where he rose through the ranks to direct various commercials and short films. He moved to California in 2001 and has worked as a character/concept designer for major movies such as "Valiant" (Walt Disney Pictures) and "9" (Focus Features), as well as the upcoming "Guardians of Ga'Hoole" (Warner Bros). Patrick is currently designing characters for the CGI feature "Gatchaman" for Imagi.

We asked Patrick the same 3 questions posed to all the artists contributing to this exhibit. Here are his answers.

・When did you first start to draw/create and what inspired you to do it?

I don't remember, but I was just one of those average infants with crayolas making mess on mom's favorite kitchen wall. I think usually kids will steadily find other interesting things to do like playing baseball or jumping on skateboards as they get older, and only a few uncelebrated ones are still left behind with stubby crayolas. That's me.

・What is your favorite color and why?

I like all colors, but I think I specially like "black" because there is something very certain and deliberate about it amongst all other seamless spectrum. "Black" is a dictator.

・What kind of music (or other aural environments) do you listen to when you work and why?

I don't know exactly why, but I cannot listen to any music when I am drawing lines. But I turn my iPod (or whatever around me could provide music) on soon as it turns into painting/coloring phase. It's funny how they could (or could not) relate to each other.

Tune in tomorrow for Profile #2. Who shall it be... ??!

Trivia: There are 17 days left before the December 10th Roots Branch show. There are 17 contributing artists. Maverix is located at 1717 17th Street, and the phone number is 415.522.1717... and none of these "coincidences" were orchestrated by humans. Fortuitous or creepy? You decide.

ROOT BRANCH WINTER ART EXHIBIT 09

2009-11-17T00:29:00.000-08:00

Its that time of year again!! Time to get the community together for an evening of Art Music Food an d Friends. And hopefully some shopping! :)

Stay tuned, we will be updating the blog with Artists bios, interviews and sneak peeks at some of the Art to be premiered at the "Root Branch" Winter Art Exhibit.

Totoro Event This Sat!!

2008-09-04T12:34:00.001-07:00

Totoro Forest Art Auction Benefit Show & Event
Pixar Animation Studios Emeryville ,
September 6 2008
http://totoroforestproject.org/

Derek Monster Blog!

2008-08-04T11:54:00.000-07:00

Check out the New "DEREKMONSTER" BLOG
A new monster every day!!

Derek Thompson interview with the Gnomon Workshop

2008-05-20T17:08:00.000-07:00

Inside the mind of the monster man himself
http://www.thegnomonworkshop.com/includes/interviews/dthompson.php

OASIS blog

2008-05-08T15:08:00.000-07:00

Enter Ed Bells "OASIS" blog.

View art and leave comments along the journey of Oasis.

MAVERIX NEW SITE IS UP!

2008-05-08T14:36:00.001-07:00

Click logo to check out our new website!

Take a look at Artist's Illustrations, watch spots by Directors, and view short films.
Come shop at our new online store! Get books, prints, and clothing.
Don't be shy, welcome to the new face of MAVERIX STUDIOS.

Ed Bell In Flip Magazine

2008-04-10T14:46:00.000-07:00

A glance into the mind of the Master Ed Bell.
If you didnt know, now you know!!

www.flipanimation.net/flipiissue12.htm

WonderCon Party Appearance

2008-03-04T12:20:00.000-08:00

The WonderCon Party was a blast!

We had a special appearance from Cornelius from Planet of the Apes. (Dan Morgan)
Thanks for dressing up everyone! Although there were hardly anyone dressed up, I have to say the Jamie Baker trio was great!

The night started with a art show featuring Maverix talent. Special art was able to be purchased as prints or books. We had a keg! By the end of the night it was dry. I'm glad everyone enjoyed the drinks. Sorry no bar tender this time - wanted to make it simple since Antonio was unable to make it. We missed you man!

The DJ's kept the party alive. People were dancing! Everyone let loose on the floor to bust a move under the nice DISCO Ball. Nice touch. The party lasted longer than expected. It wasn't until 11:30 pm that it started to slow down.

Thanks again to all who stopped by.

Up Coming WonderCon Party!!!

2008-02-12T18:40:00.000-08:00

Merry Christmas from Maverix and...

2007-12-23T14:16:00.001-08:00

Auction Results!!! $9,500.00

2007-12-11T11:45:00.001-08:00

Congratulations Everyone!! $9,500!!
Not a bad total with a month time to prepare!!
Thanks to the Artist Community for making it possible!

And thanks to all those you came out and participated in the Auction!

We are in the process of preparing prints of the Kid/Professional Art Colaborations for a kids gallery at the glide "Childrens Creative Media Arts Center".

What a way to kick off the Holiday season!!
Happy Holidays from all of us here at Maverix!!!

Maverix/Glide "Inspire" Art Auction Pics!!

2007-12-05T13:22:00.000-08:00

Congratulations Everyone!!
Another Great Evening of Art Food and Friends!!
Thanks to the Bay Area Animation Community for making it such a wonderful holiday party!!

Thanks to Glide for supporting the community everyday of the year!!

Stay Tuned as the Grand Total Rolls in!!

Special Thanks To Carlos Baena and Bosco Ng for the great pics!!
click here and click here

..and more...

2007-11-30T15:34:00.000-08:00

...and more..

2007-11-29T16:26:00.000-08:00

...and more...

2007-11-28T19:52:00.001-08:00

....more artwork arrives...

2007-11-27T15:42:00.000-08:00

...If your donation is complete, please send a jpeg so we can post on the blog!!

...Here come the pieces!!

2007-11-26T16:55:00.000-08:00

From the pros and the "soon to be pros!"

Maverix Holiday Auction

2007-11-19T01:02:00.000-08:00

Maverix is hosting a fund raiser for an important organization in our community, Glide Memorial Church. The proceeds from this fund raiser will go specifically to support their Children's Creative Arts Media Center.

The evening will include food, drink and the music of our talented DJ’s. Original and digital art from prominent contemporary artists will be up for bid in a silent auction, with the evening culminating in a live auction for the most sought after pieces!

It is a great opportunity to get the jump on holiday shopping and support a wonderful organization working with and for the under served children of our fair city.

STAY TUNED AS WE POST ART DONATIONS AS THEY COME IN!!!

Come celebrate the holidays Maverix style!!

Sunday December 2nd. 6pm til 10pm.
1717 17th street @ Carolina
SF CA 94103

"Oasis" keeps on Dancing

2007-11-08T13:31:00.000-08:00

Stay tuned as development continues on the next Maverix Studios Short.
Directed by Ed Bell

Never Miss A Word Viral Ad

2007-11-08T11:13:00.000-08:00

Maverix Studios Animation!

Animation Director: Tom Rubalcava
Producer: Bill Weir
Agency: Traction

Anne Marie Print Ad!

2007-10-26T13:10:00.000-07:00

The "Anne Marie" final print art for the "Above the Influence" compaign

We did some earlier versions before settling on the simpler cleaner version, although I really like aspects of these versions as well.

Illustration: Vaughn Ross
Graphic Design: Ching Wang
Agency: Prime Access Inc

Maverix ATI PSA is on the air!

2007-10-24T15:35:00.000-07:00

Look out for Maverix Studios ATI PSA!!
Airing Now! Look for it in the Theaters In Dec!

Directer: Vaughn Ross
Creative Director:Ed Bell
Producer: Bill Weir
Agency: Prime Access Inc

One Last Auction Sale!! Grand Total$14,700

2007-10-08T17:46:00.001-07:00

Unfortunately Tom Rubalcava got hit with a stomach flu the week of the Auction so he was unable to attend. Tom may have been down but not out! He rolled out of bed and mustered enough strength for a Auction Contribution! Toms Moxy Sculpt (along with winners who claimed there prizes after the show) pushed the grand total over the top for a grand total of $14,700!

To view the all the great contributions click here

$13,842 Grand Total!! Congratulations!!!

2007-10-01T14:49:00.000-07:00

Everyone who made the Alzheimers Auction such a big success!!
Special Congratulations to Esther and Nate Stanton for Organizing the Event!!

Catching up with old friends until.....

.....the frenzy begins

Piece of the Night Goes to Steve Purcell!! And was won by Brenda Chapman for a Whopping $3500!!

The Second Hottest Piece was "Guitar Wolf" by Patrick Awa. The Big Winner was Luis Lungren for $1000. (Playing his painting like a guitar)

Stay Tuned as we will post a slide show of all the art pieces donated!

Check out more of the Event Pics taken By Carlos Baena Click Here

Check Ronnie Del Carmen, Enrico Casarosa,Jamie Baker, and Jeff Pidgeon blogs for details of the event as well!!

Todays The Day!! Get Ready to Rock those Checkbooks!!

2007-09-29T14:06:00.000-07:00

Hopefully no one is seeing this blog and enjoying the beautiful Bay Area weather and enjoying the sun!! Maybe some of you are even heading towards the SF "LOVE PARADE". Well come around the corner to Poterero Hill For some Awesome Art for an amazing cause!!
1717 17th street @ carolina (next to the ballpark and jamba juice!)

Enrico Casarosa's "Guitar Girl with Hat"

Carlos Baena's "RobotKid"

...HERE COME THE HEAVYWEIGHTS!!

2007-09-26T14:40:00.000-07:00

"Elephant" by Jamie Baker (1 of 5 peices Jamie will be donating!)
Only 4 days left!! Get ready to Battle!!!
(if you have a jpeg of the peice you are going to donate send to vaughn@maverixstudios.com so we can add it to the blog!!)

.....Its Heating UP!!!!!

2007-09-25T20:27:00.000-07:00

We have about 50 peices confirmed....
Just a little taste from Patrick Awa and Dice Tsutsumi.
Stay tuned as the Art Rolls In!!

Patrick Awas "Guitar Wolf"

Dice Tsutsumi's untitled

Pieces are coming in!!!

2007-09-21T22:53:00.000-07:00

Alzheimers Association Art Auction Benefit

2007-09-11T22:55:00.000-07:00

Let the Battle of the Checkbooks begin!!!
Win that Art of your Friend FROM your Friend!!

Auction/Sketchcrawl Total $13,003!!!!

2007-05-24T12:08:00.000-07:00

SketchCrawl Sponsors = $1895
Outside Donations (mostly online )= $750
Auction Donations = $9958 (including est. $850 from Maverix)
Raffle Donations = $400

Click below for the gallery!!
http://maverixstudios.com/maverix_emergency/

Peter De Seve's donation

2007-05-18T10:57:00.000-07:00

Peter De Seves Auction donation

Auction Pieces are Coming in!! Thanks for the amazing art donations!!!
Click the link below for gallery!
http://maverixstudios.com/emer_gallery

Maverix-SketchCrawl Benefit Auction

2007-05-17T22:59:00.000-07:00

Satoshi-Yoskioka auction donation

Auction Pieces are Coming in!! Thanks for the amazing art donations!!!
Click the link below for gallery!
http://maverixstudios.com/emer_gallery

Patrick Awa Auction Donation

2007-05-17T22:58:00.000-07:00

Auction Pieces are Coming in!! Thanks for the amazing art donations!!!
Click the link below for gallery!
http://maverixstudios.com/emer_gallery

Ronnie Del Carmen Auction Donation

2007-05-17T15:54:00.000-07:00

Auction Pieces are Coming in!! Thanks for the amazing art donations!!!
Click the link below for gallery!
http://maverixstudios.com/emer_gallery

....and more.

2007-05-15T17:02:00.000-07:00

Auction Pieces Are Coming In!!

2007-05-12T17:03:00.000-07:00

2007-05-11T17:50:00.000-07:00

Sketchcrawl/Maverix Auction Art is coming in!!

John-Hoffman

Grace Lee

Gerald-Guerlais

Satoshi-Yoskioka

Alena-W

Lichiban

Sam-Hiti

Rhode-Montijo

Chime the Lazor Rider

Emergency Benefit Flyer!!!

2007-04-25T12:59:00.000-07:00

Maverix-SketchCrawl Benefit Auction

2007-04-11T16:24:00.000-07:00

Sunday May 20th,

where: Maverix Studios
when: 5pm to 9pm
how: silent bidding, Final bids at 7:30pm.
We will also have a benefit raffle with special prices.

All proceeds will be going to the organization "Emergency- life support for civilian war victims".
In war-thorn countries 7% of victims are soldiers, 93% are civilians, 34% of victims of war are children.
Emergency is an organization that is building hospitals and bringing care and human rights in these countries.

Watch this video to get an idea of what we are talking about:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=R0I7Ql5uLqA&eurl=
Here's the official website
http://www.emergencyusa.org /

We believe this humanitarian organization can be a meaningful and peaceful cause to give our support to.
We hope that with both the World Wide SketchCrawl and the art auction we'll be raising a good amount of $$
and maybe even more importantly some awareness for these issues.
Let's make a little difference together ...

original art from awesome artists in the animation industry
such as Ronnie Del Carmen, Enrico Casarosa, Ed Bell ..etc etc
( full list to come )

Feel free to contact us for any further information at
sketchcrawlmaverix@gmail.com

about maverix : http://www.maverixstudios.com
about sketchcrawl : http://www.sketchcrawl.com

DE-CON-PRESSION PARTY ~! AUGUST 1OTH

2006-08-01T14:46:00.000-07:00

COME JOIN US DE-CON-PRESS &
get your copy of the latest books from the Maverix Crew :

Derek Thompson's
MONSTER ANNUAL 2006 (with brand new 365 monsters ~!)
AFTERWORKS 2 (compilation of stories from Pixar Studios artists)

Tom Rubalcava's
THE WATERMARK (film noir graphic novel part one ~!)

Ed Bell 's awesome
OASIS (full color ~!)

Vaughn Ross's long awaited
BLIND FAITH ( with bonus sketchbook pages~!)

Robert Valley's erotic tour
MASSIVE SWERVE 2006 (over 90 pages ~!)

Sergio Paez's ink masterpiece
THE MATADOR (Non digital works~!)

Sho Murase's
ME2 SKETCHBOOK 2006 &
SEI :: 01.01 (mini SEI story-covers hand made by Matt)

Bosco Ng's (plus other awesome artists , compilation)
BABES IN SPACE

plus original art for sale , comics , T shirts , and more ~!

FREE WINE & MUSIC , BYOB
pass the invite, bring your friends ~

Location: Maverix Studios
1717 17th st, San Francisco, CA
When: Thursday, August 10, 7:00pm

post SDCON

2006-07-28T15:41:00.000-07:00

Thank you very much to all of you who stopped by the Maverix or Papercutz booths , it was awesome meeting and talking with you all~!

I know it was really hard for all our friends to be able to find us , and we really appreciate your efforts :)

This year we had a really bad luck with our booth location , we not only didn't get the expected corner booth , but we also got placed in a really odd location , :: in the video games and movie companies section.

Coming up in august (date to be determined) we'll planning in having a post con party for those who werent able to make it to SDCON and for those who made it and would like to share their account of SDCON .

Keep checking for updates on dates ~!

great SDCON accounts in :

FALL OUT

Donation Confirmations!

2006-05-03T15:51:00.000-07:00

We've finally received confirmation from Doctors Without Borders of their receipt of the Relief Art Auction donations. In addition, someone actually called us from their offices to thank us personally.
The Pakistan Red Cresent Society sent us a bank receipt, confirming the successful delivery of funds to their account.
It was yet another phenonemal turn out to the auction and we are so grateful to you all!

RELIEF AUCTION FOLLOW UP

2005-12-21T17:47:00.000-08:00

The first results are in for the Holiday disaster relief auction. Congratulations to all of you who attended, on top of taking home some great art for the holidays, you also helped Relief raise almost $12,000 in one night to benefit the victims of the eathquake that struck Pakistan and Kashmir; you have made a true difference in this world.

Thanks again to all the artist who donate art, you guys definitely raised the bar.

Also major props go to all the Maverix volunteers and friends who help make this auction possible it would not have been possible without you.

It seems everyone had fun, there were a lot of happy faces at the end of the show with hands filled with amazing art, some people were walking out looking like proud parents.

It’s been an honor for Maverix to have been able to host this amazing event, thanks for bringing your holiday cheer and of course cash and checkbooks.

Soon we will be putting a gallery up with pictures from the show so check back soon.
Until then, happy holidays and have a great 2006.

Thanks for all the beautiful art

2005-12-09T12:35:00.000-08:00

Maverix would like to thank all the artist that donate art for the Relief auction, being held next thursday the 15th, here at the studio (more info below.)
Now with less than a week to go, we already have received quite an amazing lot of wonderful art
TO SEE THE ARTWORK WE RECEIVED SO FAR

CLICK HERE

but there is still room for your piece. And since we know you like working under presure, we are still accepting art till monday. So break out the paint brushes, pencils, cameras, wacoms or cintiqs, whatever you use and let your creativity flow.
And to inspire you here are some examples of what we recieved so far.

http://www.maverixstudios-llc.com/Auction_preview/index.htm

MAVERIX STUDIOS HOLIDAY RELIEF ART AUCTION

2005-12-06T14:42:00.001-08:00

what: MAVERIX STUDIOS HOLIDAY RELIEF ART AUCTION

where: MAVERIX STUDIOS 1717 17TH ST, SAN FRANCISCO, CA 94103

when: THURSDAY DECEMBER 15TH, 2005. Doors open at 7:00pm for drinks, snacks and the start of the silent auction; all bidding ends promptly at 10:00pm.

what to bring: cash or checks (no credit cards please!)

Once again, the holidays are upon us, and again, we find ourselves in the midst of tragic world events during this joyous time. That's why MAVERIX STUDIOS has decided to use their annual holiday event as an opportunity to help raise money for the many affected by the earthquake that struck Pakistan and Kashmir - by hosting another art auction!

On Thursday Decemeber 15th, 2005, MAVERIX STUDIOS will host a Holiday Relief Art Auction. Thanks to your generosity, last year's art auction raised over $25,000 for the victims of the South East Asian Tsunami. And like last year, we hope to raise money by auctioning 2D and 3D pieces donated by professional artists working in the entertainment industry.100% of the proceeds from this event will be split between the Pakistan Red Crescent Society and Doctors Without Borders to benefit the many victims of the devastating earthquake that recently struck Pakistan and Kashmir.

We're confident that with the help and support of our friends, we can usher in this holiday season and make a difference in the world by helping those that have been less fortunate. Not to mention seeing all of our friends for an evening of holiday fun and scoring some amazing artwork at auction house prices!

If you have questions or are interested in donating art, money or time to this event, please go to: call MAVERIX STUDIOS (415) 522-1717 for more information.

Photos :Derek , Tom and Vaughn...working in their auction art.

</p>

Maverix Studios: NEWS

Maverix Studios Gone?

ONE , ひとつ - Big Success!

Many thanks to all the donating artists, the volunteers and special thanks to Dice ,all the Maverix Members for their work and Seiji Horibuchi of New People for letting us use Superfrog Gallery for the event.Thank you also to the hundreds of people who came to the show.

...All together as ONE , we raised $30,605, well over our initial goal for the cause :)Considering we only had a few weeks to prepare, it is an amazing success!!

ONE , ひとつ - Sho Murase

ONE , ひとつ - Vaughn Ross

ONE , ひとつ - Robert Valley

ONE , ひとつ -Helen Chen

ONE , ひとつ -Meghan Jean Kinder

ONE , ひとつ - Marcos Mateu

ONE , ひとつ - Ed Bell

ONE , ひとつ - Steve Purcell

ONE , ひとつ - Jonathan Wayshak

La Times Press release..

ONE , ひとつ - Dan McHale

ONE , ひとつ, Enrico Casarosa

ONE , ひとつ - Yoriko Ito

ONE , ひとつ - Mari Inukai

ONE , ひとつ Jamie Baker

ONE , ひとつ Jackson Dryden

ONE , ひとつ Soosa Kim

ONE , ひとつ Ronnie Del Carmen

ONE , ひとつ Noah Klocek

ONE , ひとつ video

ONE , ひとつ - Miya Ando

ONE , ひとつ - Alexandra Boiger

ONE , ひとつ - Andrea Blasich

ONE , ひとつ - Mark Sperber

ONE , ひとつ - Jennifer C. Chang

ONE , ひとつ - Kent Williams

ONE , ひとつ, Nathan Stanton

ONE , ひとつ, Dice Tsutsumi

ONE , ひとつ - Tom Rubalcava

ONE , ひとつ - Sergio Paez

ONE , ひとつ Pre Registration

ONE , ひとつ , Alex Puvilland

ONE , ひとつ , Joey chou

ONE , ひとつ , Sei Nakashima

ONE , ひとつ , Todd Uyeminami

ONE , ひとつ , Scott Morse

ONE , ひとつ , Tooru Terada (From Saitama, Japan)

ONE , ひとつ , Julia Lundman

ONE , ひとつ , Alina Chau

ONE , ひとつ , Derek Thompson

ONE , ひとつ , Patrick Awa

ONE , ひとつ

Root Branch Profiles 11 12 13 14 15 16 17

About Me: Storyboard supervisor at Pixar Animation Studios

Favorite Movies

Favorite Music

Favorite Books

ROBERT VALLEY: Root Branch Profile #10

TOM RUBALCAVA: Root Branch Profile #9

DEREK THOMPSON: Root Branch Profile #8

JACKIE HUANG: Root Branch Profile #7

OCTAVIO RODRIGUEZ: Root Branch Profile #6

C. J. Guzman : Root Branch Profile #5

DICE TSUTSUMI: Root Branch Profile #4

SERGIO PAEZ: Root Branch Profile #3

ED BELL: Root Branch Profile #2

PATRICK AWA: Root Branch Profile #1

ROOT BRANCH WINTER ART EXHIBIT 09

Totoro Event This Sat!!

Derek Monster Blog!

Derek Thompson interview with the Gnomon Workshop

OASIS blog

MAVERIX NEW SITE IS UP!

Ed Bell In Flip Magazine

WonderCon Party Appearance

Up Coming WonderCon Party!!!

Merry Christmas from Maverix and...

Auction Results!!! $9,500.00

Maverix/Glide "Inspire" Art Auction Pics!!

..and more...

...and more..

...and more...

....more artwork arrives...

...Here come the pieces!!

Maverix Holiday Auction

Many thanks to all the donating artists, the volunteers and special thanks to Dice ,all the Maverix Members for their work and Seiji Horibuchi of New People for letting us use Superfrog Gallery for the event.

Thank you also to the hundreds of people who came to the show.

...All together as ONE , we raised $30,605, well over our initial goal for the cause :)

Considering we only had a few weeks to prepare, it is an amazing success!!