Creature Blanket

Edward's House of String Video at REDCAT

2012-01-31T01:48:00.000-08:00

Finally, I put up some excepts from my performance last fall :) Thank you to Carol Kim for video recording it!

Spider Creature

2012-01-28T12:33:00.000-08:00

Spider Creature, by Cindy Derby

This was the spider creature puppet I built for the short film, Frigid

I will be putting up some more photos soon from the actual shoot! How I made it? Paper, tape and paint! Oh, and little flashlights that I wrapped red paper around.

Black House on a Hill

2012-01-05T21:36:00.001-08:00

Black House on a Hill by Cindy Derby

2012...Beginnings of something...new

2011-12-23T23:30:00.000-08:00

This has probably been the most challenging and exciting year thus so far of my life, from performing my show at the International Manipulate Festival in February, making some crazy life-decisions, making the move back from Glasgow to California- and with that...sadly departing a tremendous relationship, and yet making new wonderful friends, making the move to Los Angeles and working with stop-motion animation company Screen Novelties, and meeting some humble puppeteers through Janie Geiser, having the fabulous opportunity to perform my puppetry work at the REDCAT- the Walt Disney Concert Hall, to getting involved in many film projects for production design, a few crazy health scares the past months (!), and finally back home with my family to reflect...relax...and redeem myself. I couldn't ask for a more pleasant closing to this chapter. I feel a chapter in anyone's life can end at any point in a year...but right now...it truly does feel like this one is concluding at the end of this year and a new one is blossoming in January. It has been an emotional roller coaster...the longest chapter yet of my life. I have learned many valuable skills through working on film sets and creating my own work. Not only that...but many life lessons in the mix. I recognize that my work as an artist grows with me, grows down with me, grows sideways with me. It just exists, and there is simply evolution. No better or worse. Perhaps more depth as life draws you raggedy edges.

Im ready to workshop a new puppetry piece I have been writing for children. I will be applying for funding too, and I am propelling forward with all the wonderful things I am passionate about, which were almost lost in the mix of some occasions. Im excited and optimistic what this new chapter will bring.

Spider-Creature Concept

2011-12-23T23:03:00.000-08:00

In the next few weeks I will be embarking on creating a large creature for a live-action film that takes place in an ice world. These are my concept drawings. Im really excited to get started soon! I also love spiders...never had a fear of them ;) I think they are intricate and beautiful...although the creature is suppose to be slightly ambiguous in the movie...the shadow that it will create will be most important!

Dormant Production Design

2011-12-15T18:52:00.000-08:00

I had the pleasure of doing the production design on a short film titled Dormant this past week. Im really excited for the completed film, the actors were amazing too :)

Christmas Fish Ornaments!

2011-11-30T16:29:00.000-08:00

Every Christmas my family back east has a big ornament party, in which each family member creates a unique ornament for exchange. Every year growing up, I watched my mom make ornaments- and sometimes she would gather ideas for them in the summer time, then wait and begin to make them the last week of November. After the party, we would receive a big box full of hand-made ornaments from all my aunts and cousins. It would be such a delight to hang each individualized ornament on our christmas tree. This year, I decided to take the plunge and make an ornament to be sent to my aunt's house in Massachusetts. I stayed up until the wee hours of the night creating these little guys...

Foam that I carved- they look like potatoes!

After applying the paper mache, I left them sit in an oven on low heat

I sprayed feathers and the potato-shaped bodies a metallic silver

I created little mouths out of clay and baked them

I applied bolt-nut eyes

and the mouths...

all lined up and ready for their trip back east!

a silver fish...hmmmm

Frigid - a short film by Jack Meggers

2011-11-27T18:57:00.000-08:00

In January, I will be beginning a project with Jack Meggers designing and building a scary creature for an ice world. I am really excited to be part of the team, and also assisting the lovely production designer in the process. The film is about a six year old boy who inadvertently locks himself in a refrigerator- and the bond between father and son is put to the ultimate test.

More about the project here: www.frigidmovie.com

Building towards Performance

2011-10-27T14:41:00.000-07:00

I thought I would put some photos from the building of Edward's House of String, which recently performed at the REDCAT this past September. Looking at past entries, and particularly about Pascal Lecoq, from Laboratory of Movement Study and the workshop, I am reminded why I love to build, and begin with a material structure to create movement- which in turn evolves into character and eventually puppetry performance. My method usually begins with these structures. After theater training with voice and movement, and learning about the human body in ways it can move and express emotion- the experience has really influenced the puppets I create. For now, here are some photos of the progress of building Edward and the tree sculpture.

Edward's skeletal frame. Created with welded rod pieces and wood. His neck rod is a ball that protrudes out from the back of the torso.

This is Edward's head, which I sculpted out of insulation foam and then applied paper mache

Inside Eric Cantley's workshop- I wanted the tree to be approx 6 feet taller. (Originally the tree was 8 feet tall in Glasgow, but I wanted it to be around 15 feet) Eric welded the middle bulbous shape of the tree

Here is the tree sculpture with no dressing- thats a dang tall tree now!

Inside of my apartment (aka rehearsal space!!) Edward is lying on the floor- this is naked Edward!

"Are you Happy Now" music video featuring artwork by Cindy Derby

2011-10-19T09:41:00.000-07:00

This is a really great music video from Megan & Liz that features my artwork in their new song "Are you Happy Now"

Join Shenae Grimes in DoSomething.org and everyone touched by bullying as we come together to help drive awareness for this cause.

Production Design was by the lovely Victor A Sandoval, Set Decoration by Jane Madden with assistance by Marley Arnold

And here is a behind the scenes video of the making

Blossoming

2011-10-16T11:41:00.000-07:00

Tree Blossoming by Cindy Derby

This is a screen shot from a group of stop-motion animation sequences I created of tree branches blossoming after a storm.

Bridge to Freedom

2011-10-07T19:19:00.000-07:00

Bridge to Freedom by Cindy Derby

This is a recent painting I completed today on a big giant canvas!!! about 7 feet by 5 feet :) It is a painting of a little girl who crosses a bridge from the city and into the depths of her imagination. It has been a long while since I have built and stretched a canvas- and I have forgotten how much I enjoy it! Im now going to be doing for every painting I do. I feel that I experience the spirit of the painting more when I am also creating the base for which the paint lies on top of. And I do not always put the gesso on in a very structured way- I let it flow, and from the rough edges of the gesso, I can begin to make out what the painting may become and I begin. I got frustrated in the midst of the painting because the colors were not seeming to blend together- so I emptied almost an entire bottle of white paint in the center and smudged it all over, yet I kept the remnants of the first layer. Every painting has its emotional journey.

Thank goodness I used a tarp for this one....

Edward's House of String Photos from REDCAT

2011-09-25T12:20:00.000-07:00

I am incredibly happy the way Edward's House of String developed at the REDCAT this September. I feel I have accomplished what I wanted to in this phase of Edward's journey, and am inspired and grateful for the support I have received in this month build and collaboration with puppeteers, musicians, and technical staff. I am ready to continue forward on my artistic journey in Los Angeles, where diverse and talented artist come together to make dream worlds come to life.

Photos by Steve Gunther

Lets take a moment and remember my apartment a month ago...

2011-08-13T03:01:00.001-07:00

death of fish

i was playing in photoshop 3am

Buy your tickets!

2011-08-06T17:31:00.001-07:00

Edward's House of String at the REDCAT

2011-07-23T22:22:00.000-07:00

Very exciting news :) I am part of the program for the 2011 New Original Works Festival at the REDCAT in Los Angeles this September. I am currently working on the new development!!!

2011-07-21T23:50:00.001-07:00

Circus Traveler by Cindy Derby

'Scary Tales'

2011-07-17T13:56:00.000-07:00

I am currently working as a set dresser on a fairy tale series shot in 3D, here are some photos from the progress. Last two photos were taken by the lovely photographer Stefania Rosini. More photos soon!

Hansel & Gretel- Interior Witch House

Hansel & Gretel - Interior Witch House

Little Red Riding Hood - Interior House

Little Red Riding Hood- Interior Grandmother House

Carl

2011-06-28T17:07:00.000-07:00

I am currently working on my next animation-short on a multiplane platform I created in my bedroom in Los Angeles. Thank god for thick curtains to block out all the light!

Production Photos of The Reptile Under the Flowers

2011-06-28T16:58:00.000-07:00

I am so happy to have taken part in a beautiful diorama performance directed and created by Janie Geiser. It was a great turn-out with sell out audiences every night! This was my first project in Los Angeles, and has brought me into the circle of puppeteers in the city- all wildly creative and genuine individuals. Miggie Wong , an performance artist and puppeteer on the project took some photos that I am ecstatic to share.

And a last photo of (most!) of the puppeteers involved in the show

Without a Heart

2011-06-17T15:31:00.000-07:00

Without a Heart by Cindy Derby

Creature on the Moon

2011-06-15T20:10:00.000-07:00

Creature on the Moon by Cindy Derby

Woman in Rocking Chair

2011-06-04T12:04:00.000-07:00

Woman in Rocking Chair, by Cindy Derby

Janie Geiser's The Reptile Under The Flowers

2011-05-31T11:25:00.000-07:00

Come check out a show I have been working on by Janie Geiser with some other amazing puppeteers!

Automata presents:

The full premiere of Janie Geiser's

The Reptile Under the Flowers

A Peepshow/Diorama Performance

Conceived, Directed, and Designed by Janie Geiser

Music Composed by Valerie Opielski

Puppet Costumes designed by Sarah Brown, Sandra Burns, Meejin Hong,

and Yelena Zhelezov

Lighting design by Bryan Yu

Knitted Landscapes by DanRae Wilson

Video Design by Christine Marie and Janie Geiser

Performed by: Baxley Andresen, Andrew Aronsohn, Kristy Baltezore, Cindy Derby, Nicole Emmons, Janie Geiser, So-Ok Kim, Marian Liddel, Moira MacDonald, Gina Napolitan, Beth Peterson, Eli Presser, Alonso Ramirez, Whitney Raene, Catherine Strecker, DanRae Wilson, Miggie Wong, Blake Young.

June 9-19, 2011, Thursdays through Sundays*

*This is a walk-through performance in 12 Scenes.

Showtimes begin at 8 PM for small groups (8 people at a time); new groups enter every 15 minutes, with the last show beginning at 9:30 pm (9:45 on Saturdays). The duration of the show is 1 hour.

The Giraffe Space

1652 West Temple Street

Los Angeles, CA 90026

2 blocks west of Glendale Avenue, near downtown Los Angeles and Echo Park.

Street parking available. The Giraffe Space is the new home of Screen Novelties.

Tickets $15

(Advance tickets strongly suggested)

Available online at:

https://www.brownpapertickets.com/event/178772

Automata presents The Reptile Under the Flowers, Janie Geiser''''s peepshow/diorama performance in 12 scenes. The Reptile Under the Flowersintegrates puppetry, mechanical performing objects, small projections, music and sound to create an intimate visual performance work. Conceived, designed and directed by visual/theater artist and experimental filmmaker Janie Geiser, the piece is performed by an ensemble of 15 puppeteers. The Reptile Under the Flowers was first presented as a work-in-progress in 2009; the show has expanded and new scenes have been added, and these performances mark the premiere of the full work.

The Reptile Under the Flowers builds its narrative through the accumulation of small actions and events, without text or dialogue, and follows the intersecting lives of a father and son. The father, a former thief, spends his time on the top floor of his house; pacing night and day, heard but rarely seen, his absence is an persistent presence in the story. His son moves from childhood to war, and suffers from the trauma and sadness of what he has experienced. Each time he attempts to return home, he turns back. These two men inhabit the diorama-landscapes of the play as their parallel, elliptical narratives intersect and collide. In addition, the figure of the wife and mother stands at the emotional core of the work. Valerie Opielski’s hypnotic uses a wide palette of instruments and sounds, centering on electric guitar, and creates a textured atmosphere of melancholy and suspense.

The audience moves in small groups through the 12 scenes in sequence (total viewing time is approximately one hour). New audiences enter every 15 minutes, with several groups watching different scenes at any given time. The audience alternates between intimate, almost voyeuristic viewing and shared events, moving between internal and external modes of seeing.

Note: If you wish to enter with a specific group of people, please try to purchase all of the tickets at the same time for the same time slot, or adjoining slots. While this is not a performance designed for children, children over 10 who are attending with adults are welcome. The form of viewing and atmosphere of the performance may test the patience of younger children.

AUTOMATA is a non-profit organization located in Los Angeles, California, dedicated to the creation, incubation, and presentation of experimental puppet theater, experimental film, and other contemporary art practices centered on ideas of artifice and performing objects.

The Reptile Under the Flowers is funded, in part, through grants from The Jim Henson Foundation, The Center for Cultural Innovation, The Durfee Foundation, and the City of Los Angeles Department of Cultural Affairs. Special thanks to Screen Novelties.

For information, visit:
www.automata-la.org

Fisherman

2011-05-08T21:29:00.000-07:00

fisherman at sea by Cindy Derby

Reaching Hands

2011-05-03T11:47:00.001-07:00

Reaching hands

Work-in-progress

by Cindy Derby

Marian Derby

2011-05-02T16:54:00.000-07:00

Marian Derby performing Punch and Judy in the 1950's

I have had the wonderful opportunity to learn about my grandmother's puppeteer days through letters we wrote back and forth. She enclosed some old photographers of her performing, and even one of her and Frank Oz in her earlier days at the Children's Fairyland Puppet Fair- the 1st major event hosted by the San Francisco Puppeteers Guild of America.

Weeping Woman

2011-05-02T15:13:00.000-07:00

Weeping Woman by Cindy Derby

Flowers

2011-04-30T15:28:00.000-07:00

Flowers by Cindy Derby

Coraline- Doll Hair (Fascinating job of the week!)

2011-04-30T00:26:00.000-07:00

Here is a short video on the making of the doll hair in Coraline. Very very very much respect goes to Suzanne Moulton, head of the really really small hair department! (I love love love the detail!) I am at the moment watching this movie, and I can't help but want to replay every single scene knowing how much work went into every detail...
My favorite scene in the movie is when she enters the "other garden" and the little daffodil's tickle her!!!

I would suggest watching the making of the movie here
Fascinating and well made videos for people outside the stop-motion world to appreciate as well! :) :) :)

Houses that fly away

2011-04-29T16:01:00.000-07:00

Houses that fly away by Cindy Derby

This Week's Highlight

2011-04-21T23:48:00.000-07:00

Favorite Animation of the Week: HEALTH by Haley Morris which she created for the Advertising Council’s 57th Annual Service Award Dinner to introduce all the health commercials that have been made this year.

I found this animation on the Dragon Stop Motion blog. (And!) she created it with a multiplane- so that is another plus plus! I find Haley's work to be incredible.

An interesting way she went about it was compositing the different layers- which I am currently learning how to do with DSM. She shot the backgrounds and the faces separately then joined them together in postproduction. The transitions are what makes this animation stunning.

Homemade multiplane camera

2011-04-10T21:56:00.000-07:00

I was quite successful when I discovered a free standing clothing rack to use as a rig for my camera. The bars were adjustable (big plus!), it was on wheels (a little risky, but also ok- because they could be taken off), and it was the right width to put my tabletop between with glass. However, I was craving something more solid, so instead I had help screwing together 1/2 inch steel pipping with elbow brackets and mounting it to two pieces of wood. It is quite sturdy, however I am questioning how I will be moving the camera down smoothly during the course of a shot. I was so eager to begin to animate that I did not plan all my steps in getting there. Whether or not this is something I can do in post production with the same quality is the big question. But Id like to get away from depending on the programs too much. I will have to begin again with a better plan...perhaps I will go back to the clothing rack... ;) I feel most of the work to stop-motion is building and setting up the shot- then the animating is the dessert.

Test Shots - Goldfish Animation

2011-04-06T23:20:00.000-07:00

Couldn't help but put up a couple of photos for my new animation. Spent the past two days building a multiplane and rigging the camera- phew! All I need now is some more lights- cause I can't be using the black lights all the time, although they look nice :)

But here are some test shots I did earlier today

Also just finished writing my letter of intent to the Jim Henson Foundation for a new puppetry piece- cross your fingers!

Goldfish animation

2011-03-20T15:41:00.000-07:00

Goldfish on my roof!!!!

The past couple days I have been building a miniature set for a new....experiment ;) I am going to keep adding my final touches and also finding solutions to ways I can incorporate 2D animation in post production. What is my fascination with Houses anyway? Jeez, they keep popping up in everything I am doing! Its one of those things that I cannot explain.

Tomorrow I am going to start animating! Yippeee! Im pretty much taping down everything with crappy scotch tape- it looks disastrous on the other side!! I have to find better ways to secure the materials o they dont shift around. Perhaps using a rostrum would have been better.

And more photos of my progress very soon!

There's a goldfish on my roof

2011-03-15T15:41:00.000-07:00

There's a goldfish on my roof....AHHHHHH

Home sweet home in California. Back in my old room, and I have begun painting again- I have my easel and all my things here with lots of space! I still have left over jars of my favorite paint, Nova Color, which I couldn't recommend more.

Yikes too. much. stuff. I cant. see.

Fog arriving in City

2011-03-12T12:32:00.000-08:00

by Cindy Derby

Floating up

2011-03-07T07:15:00.000-08:00

Up-inspired Floating House

Vision Mechanics tweeted this link earlier and I could not be more blown away (literally...hehe)

See more photos here

As I pack my things up here in Glasgow and prepare for my move back to my home in California, a sense of release and emotions take over. I am ready. And viewing people creating projects together like these are such a dream come to life.

Art & Loneliness

2011-02-21T09:51:00.000-08:00

A fascinating quote about Loneliness being a part of the human heart:

"The whole conviction of my life now rests upon the belief that loneliness, far from being a rare and curious phenomenon, peculiar to myself and to a few other solitary men, is the central and inevitable fact of human existence. When we examine the moments, acts, and statements of all kinds of people-not only the grief and ecstasy of the greatest poets, but also the huge unhappiness of the average soul…we find, I think, that they are all suffering from the same thing. The final cause of their complaint is loneliness." -Thomas Wolfe 'God's Lonely Man'

This quote I found in an article I was introduced to by Christoph: An Existential Perspective of Loneliness http://www.parkridgecenter.org/Page437.html

"It is ironic how much of our freedom we expend on power-on conquering death, disease, and decay, all the while concealing from each other our carefully buried loneliness, which if shared, would deepen our understanding of each other."

I find that this idea truly resonates with my personal experience these past months. In those very rare, clear and defining moments, I pierce through this cloudiness and witness this loneliness in other people around me. It does not happen so often, as I am far too consumed in my own thoughts, worries and self-judgement- with that stern face and caffeinated 'go go go city girl' state of mind. However, when these moments do fade in, it is an awareness that peels open a channel in which I can see people. In result, feeling safer sharing who I am. It comes with a non-judegemental mind...yet not trying so hard to 'be aware' either. Pretty much, when 'Me' is not getting in the way of 'me', I feel it. A mind game I am constantly playing with myself.

Recently I discussed with a friend about the type of films I love the most. I recognized that although I was about to name off the high-stylzed animation films, rather the films that have captured me on a deeper level are the ones that are raw and usually center very intimately around the protagonists journey to....somewhere. They are the films that help me understand myself better, the stories that make me see our nature and ultimately bring us closer to people- because we all share this. And those are the kinds of stories I want to create with people in my life. A collaborative effort to share to the rest of the world who we are. In an entertaining way, of course!

And the beauty of being an artist, or even human for that matter!... Is to express, or even be aware for that slight moment in hopes of a renewed sense of self and true compassion.

bad rabbit- No! You can not have any of my food...

Tying together loose ends

2011-02-19T09:00:00.000-08:00

Currently, I am putting together a portfolio of my work on Edward's House of String. Its a bittersweet feeling, but I am also excited about other opportunities where this piece could continue on its journey in California.

Monster in Love

2011-02-12T15:56:00.000-08:00

Monster in Love by Cindy Derby

Just getting a hang of this Wacom tablet I have for digital drawing and painting. Using photoshop, I am learning all the different tools and layering to give more depth to my work. It is a much 'cleaner' method than real painting, however I do miss the mess of real painting. In this much cleaner digital method, I am discovering all the infinite colors! Wow, greys are my new thing- and why I never discovered them before...who knows! I usually like to go straight for the bright reds, purples and greens, but not anymore!

Oh, and in case you were wondering- this is a monster with a caterpillar rucksack on her way to deliver a special letter :)

Train station

2011-02-10T10:29:00.000-08:00

Train Station by Cindy Derby

Red birds falling

2011-02-08T17:14:00.001-08:00

Red birds falling

Manipulate soon

2011-01-25T19:25:00.000-08:00

Back in rehearsals for this string thing ;) I certainly cannot sleep. Not only is my mind buzzing with new ideas, but I still will not allow myself to sleep at a decent hour nor get up at one! Im currently a night owl, happy to surf the web and ponder all night. Espresso's make these days easier.

Christmas in Germany

2010-12-25T13:05:00.000-08:00

This year I was not able to make it home to California for Christmas, but I was lucky enough to be in such a beautiful village with my second family...and have my very first white christmas!

view from city centre in Schwäbisch Hall

im Marktplatz

shoveling snow at the farm in Wittighausen

front of our duck

a couple festive cards I made for very special people :) The snow queen is originally a white background, but I think she only comes out in the night and sprinkles bits of magic here and there.

a road

2010-12-22T10:16:00.000-08:00

a road, by Cindy Derby

watercolor and pencil

A simple painting I did this afternoon. It is a road that reminds me of driving in California.

Illusion

2010-12-22T08:22:00.000-08:00

Illusion, by Cindy Derby

A woman sleeps with two different hands wrapped around her.

Cardboard boxes

2010-12-17T04:54:00.001-08:00

"One of the tasks of true friendship is to listen compassionately and creatively to the hidden silences. Often secrets are not revealed in words, they lie concealed in the silence between the words or in the depth of what is unsayable between two people." — John O'Donohue

Shuffling through all my old paintings, sketches and half finished paintings, I have come across old pallets I used to mix colors. I love looking at them- sometimes they are more interesting then the painting itself...hehe- maybe because it was unintentional 'found art'- whatever that means.

I am in the midst of moving all my things I left behind in an attic in Freiburg when I lived here for four months this past summer (not in the attic though). Its hard for me to let go of some things and I can't take with me everything. I am sitting in front of these boxes trying to order things in terms of priority: to keep, to donate, & to throw away- as well as give away to friends at a party tonight.. it is a very difficult task when I am holding so dearly every remnant like precious memories that may eventually slip through the cracks on a cold floor.

As I look upon these random pallets that were once used for paintings, it is then I recognize that trying to capture and preserve every piece will become harder and harder as my life moves forward and filtered through.

2010-12-16T05:50:00.000-08:00

Here is some of the proofs from my show Edward's House of String that Kenny McColl photographed.
More to come soon :)

red pockets

2010-12-15T11:54:00.001-08:00

Red Pockets, by Cindy Derby

watercolor and pencil

Small pieces

2010-12-15T06:27:00.000-08:00

"We do not need to go out and find love; rather, we need to be still and let love discover us."
— John O'Donohue

a small piece to a much bigger picture

How many...

2010-12-13T14:28:00.000-08:00

I can't keep track of how many selves

2010-12-13T14:15:00.001-08:00

"Your soul knows the geography of your destiny. Your soul alone has the map of your future, therefore you can trust this indirect, oblique side of yourself. If you do, it will take you where you need to go, but more important it will teach you a kindness of rhythm in your journey." — John O'Donohue

Animation Stills

2010-12-13T13:09:00.000-08:00

These are some stills from my recent project with Ania Leszczynska and Cat Bruce

Black dive

2010-12-13T12:18:00.000-08:00

black dive, by cindy

Dreaming

2010-12-13T11:59:00.000-08:00

shhhhhh....Edward is sleeping

Dark City

2010-12-11T16:39:00.001-08:00

Had a dream the other night I was cycling onto a windy road in the dark. The light on my bike flickered, then it weeped forward like a nose on a sad little animal. The pedals became harder and harder to push like I was riding through deep black mud. I knew where I was. I was almost home- it was the road that leads me back to my family... but there was a long journey ahead before I would make it there.

Preview at Arches, Glasgow

2010-11-19T18:05:00.000-08:00

The Creative Team

Animation by Cat Bruce, Ania Leszczynska, and Cindy Derby

Sound design by Ben Dunn

Set design by Cindy Derby and Kelli Des Jarlais

Set build by Adrian Russel Lamb

Created and performed by Cindy Derby

Just another couple weeks until the work-in-progress...its go time

The most amazing time has been spending time collaborating with such a unique blend of talented and passionate artists in Scotland. Their dedication and openness working towards this vision has made me learn and grow in ways I didn't think would be possible. I don't believe an artistic achievement should be done alone.. because it isn't ever as satisfying. To share it with others, and for others is what counts.

Mind Map & Going Green

2010-11-11T14:10:00.000-08:00

Ideas come like a lift of the magical yet devious wand... But I will speak no further about this because Im finding myself in a mental trap if I do so. Making a mind map helps me. A silent and temporary cure from feeling dizzy from spinning around in too many circles.

On the bright (and green) side of life, I had another great day at the animation studio with Cat and Hazel animating. Feels too good to work with those who are passionate about what they do.

Hazel who loves chocolate-covered-rasins during sessions

Disjointed Red Gloves

2010-11-07T14:15:00.000-08:00

A helping or three?? little word by Cindy

Work-in-Progress Life

2010-11-02T07:57:00.000-07:00

Last week, I had the pleasure of working with Cat Bruce and Ania Leszczynska (Hazel) on animations for my project Edward's House of String. I find it fascinating being inside a dark studio all day working next to hot lamps and over fragile glass moving tiny particles millimeter by millimeter. When I walked in the first time I went to visit on a Tuesday, it felt like a dark tunnel crossing over into the land of imagination. I visited each of the stations that were set up, and the animators were consumed in their little worlds, sipping on not-warm-anymore instant coffee with their hands meticulous under the cameras frame. The students had a sparky sense of humor and called each other by vulgar-nick names; however, they possessed such a very warm and curious energy, that it created an interesting and fulfilling day of work.

It is beautiful to watch the progression of the work take place- when each frame takes a lot of time to set up...it is as if life slows down and you are able to witness the details of every day movements that we take for granted on an every day basis.

Photo of Cat Bruce, working on 'String in the Pot' sequence

I was happy to have taken part in the progression of the animation, while the three of us women worked stress-free; assigning ourselves different jobs to complete the sequence as quickly as possible. This included making the paper elements and painting the background, discussing the movements, and then in the studio where we began to animate. There was more freedom than I thought in the progression of stop-motion animation, which I find to be useful in my artistic development. I feel that having this exploration of the story through the materials works rather well for me. And leaves room for magic.

Everyday I am learning more about the way I like working best as an artist. There is no 'right way' because every artist's development is different. Even if it means stirring the pot of ideas in your head for months, then taking the dive...it doesn't matter. Whatever works.

A friend told me recently he felt at calm when he realized all artists are confused. Of course, he probably had that epiphany after realizing how 'all over the place' I am as an artist! When he was younger he believed that when he would be older and more experienced, all the confusions would vanish and he'd know exactly what he was doing. To this day, he still doesn't. With every development you work on, their are new challenges. And one does not just 'figure it all out one day'. I couldn't agree with him more... especially with the progression of the piece I have been developing (and getting sidetracked all at the same time). There is this very work-in-progress feel with every step I am taking, every idea that comes into my head, every piece of fabric I sew and paint... a sense of roughness always remains. And I wondered to myself..."When am I going to know what I am doing? When will I be a master? Why isn't my work perfect? I need to go to art school! I need more classes!" As my Polish friend Remi would tell me in his best American accent, 'CindY, just get ON with it.'

Look! Its a tree! Its a fabric pole! Its a nest! Wait...where was I going with this again?

Selection of favorite animation

2010-10-20T11:00:00.000-07:00

The Sun and the Seed from Jamie Caliri on Vimeo.

Denmark (Portland Cello Project) from Mark Smith on Vimeo.

Lemony Snicket's End Titles from Jamie Caliri on Vimeo.

Slamdance 16 from Nico Casavecchia on Vimeo.

my favorite part is that bird.

Hands

2010-10-19T18:18:00.000-07:00

Hands composition by Cindy

The element of hands has been becoming quite apparent in the nature of my work. The cut-out hands, inspired by the animation 'the dream' by Cat Bruce, may be a prevalent theme in upcoming animation sequences we will collaborate together on over the next month. I am very excited to be working with such innovative artists.

Lamp mobile

2010-10-09T16:02:00.000-07:00

Kites in my mind

2010-10-09T15:52:00.000-07:00

Here is a photo I took of a painted paper over my lamp

This helped spark ideas for my next animation. Kites have been in my mind a lot lately...perhaps a familiar story about flying a kite....

Black Widow

2010-10-05T16:58:00.001-07:00

Black Widow by Cindy Derby

Thread Stop motion Animation

2010-09-29T03:16:00.000-07:00

Thread Stop-Motion Animation from Cindy Derby on Vimeo.

This is a story about love and evolving.

Second time doing stop-motion animation. I think its also a practice in my patience, which I am trying to work on these days. When I thought I would be finished and wanted to view the footage, I kept at it and created more for it. I realize though, as I am beginner with stop-motion animation... it is much more effective if you stay in the flow of it. It feels like life slows down, and each movement of life is captured- such a beautiful thing.

Mini Studio

2010-09-26T15:45:00.000-07:00

Just a little shot of my workplace...(ahem..my bedroom) in my flat in Glasgow. This is considered CLEAN. 30 minutes before I couldn't sit on my bed because there was too much stuff. In the future, I would love to have a room specially dedicated for my work- a VERY BIG room... a performance section and studio/workshop section. Ahh yes...I'l be excited when that day comes.

I get so inspired when I view Sabrina Ward Harrison's artwork- she's a very well known mixed media artist- and I love her collages. I found out about her work when browsing through a bookstore and found a journal that she designed. Her work environment is just amazing.

space = so much possibility

In her website she says:

"My work is about spilling, the spilling open of myself - my colors and questions.

I use my "mistakes" - I follow where they may take me. I like to use what I find - what is left over, unused. My art supplies are remnants, faded and forgotten letters, table clothes, felt, wallpaper, drawer lining, photographs, paper doll cut-outs, maps, fabric, vinyl records, and sheets of music once played and heard - now left quiet. I am patching and piecing a life hooked together, yet partially obscured, with masking tape, ribbon, thread, varnish, and paper clips." -Sabrina Ward Harrison

Its a funny thing because I am such a neat freak...almost obsessive compulsive with my shoes being in line, and books being perfectly stacked in an ordered 'messy way', my bed sheets with no wrinkles... But when it comes to working, especially as an artist things spiral out of control and things can get VERY VERY untidy...but those are the moments that I love the most- I become so focused on what I am creating, and thats all that matters. It is a hard balance to accomplish of 'being in the zone' and also taking care of your health or even your life outside... especially when im all caffeined up and havent eaten in 7 hours and there is glue and paint stuck on my shirt and in my hands. My body feels like it wants to shutdown but my inspiration is still pounding. Its a strange combination. But its what drives me forward.

Manipulate Festival 2011

2010-09-26T13:44:00.000-07:00

Preview of Manipulate Festival 2011, from Puppet Animation Scotland. I am very excited to be taking part in this...its going to be a wonderful event!

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Animation Project

2010-09-25T09:40:00.000-07:00

Currently creating an animation based on Edwards House of String- which will be incorporated into performance. Im very excited to be working with a variety of different mediums :)

Fall again...

2010-09-23T13:17:00.001-07:00

Posture posture posture!

2010-09-09T21:38:00.000-07:00

Since beginning my puppetry training, I have becoming more and more inclined to aches in pains in places im not used to. Ive realized that although I consider myself to be in good shape, it all comes down to my posture throughout my daily activities and work. Im noticing that Im protruding my neck forward a lot- sitting at the computer, sitting at the desk, eating, painting, and even just reading in bed. This is causing a lot of pressure on my neck- so im going to have to remind myself often to readjust. My sister is currently etting her doctorate in Physical Therapy, and she will show me some exercises to help strengthen the muscles I am using more while doing puppetry, as well as ways to help relief my neck from aching. As my dad told me last night, "We all have pain!". I am quite cautious when it comes to health and my body, which we all should be...but I tend to get stressed and anxious when there is a little something bothering me. I just need to relax more...yet also be mindful of ways I am stressing my body especially when learning new techniques.

Shadow Puppetry

2010-09-05T03:07:00.000-07:00

This weekend I had the pleasure of performing at the Clockworks Fundraiser festival in Derbyshire, England. Early in the day we began by conducting a workshop in making shadow puppetry for the kids. It was somewhat difficult to get the full affect of their cutouts with the sun beaming, so we moved to a tent afterwards and had a small audience sit inside.

After performing our marionette's with conga type drums, we then set off into a bigger puppet...

And when it became evening, we performed shadow puppetry outside the tent to accompany the bands playing inside. Sometimes bugs flew onto the overhead projector screen that was inside the pink tent, and they became part of the show.

Grassington

2010-09-03T15:04:00.000-07:00

I am currently in Grassington doing some work with the London School of Puppetry. Been in the workshop making for the past few weeks...and everyday when its tea time (dinner for americans...hehe) I experience this magnificent view of the green hills, with sheep and cows chomping on the grass....such a wonderful reward after a hard days work. Ahhhhh

Hippos in the dark

2010-08-17T04:53:00.000-07:00

by Cindy Derby

A creature with a a soft puffy tail, that if touched, can bring warmth to the heart of others. A creature who can see the outlines of trees and flowers and insects in the nighttime, and colors them in with his sparkly antennas.

Schwäbisch House

2010-08-06T09:47:00.000-07:00

The way I see it, Schwäbisch Hall, Germany

Picking chamomile flowers on a farm in Bibersfeld, Germany

Snail

2010-07-29T10:54:00.000-07:00

Snail by Cindy Derby

Progression of snail...

...to be continued

2010-07-28T11:36:00.000-07:00

stopmotion by Cindy Derby

This is really exciting- using my digital camera and paper cut-outs, I created a little stop-motion animation film this afternoon. Although I had some mess-ups on the way, I think it gives it a little more of a rough edge. I was way too impatient though... Tomorrow Id like to spend more than an afternoon creating one.

More to come!

Animation Attempt

2010-07-25T11:25:00.000-07:00

The inspiration: my Bumble Bird picture

Hmmm...All I can say is, "tweening" is my new favorite thing. As a newbie in the world of 2D animation, I am recognizing how much time can pass by sitting at the computer. I left the computer today and walked out into civilization to let my eyes breathe. And I forgot to eat...thats when I realize I am completely immersed in another world. Its strange- like I am never fully satisfied, yet am totally addicted.

This is a silly little animation I created in a couple hours- but that was after I learned what the heck 'tweening' was all about. Pretty much, to 'tween', I don't really know how to use the word yet- but it means you are able to change the property of an object over a certain number of frames. In other words, it saves you a lot of time. But Im still figuring it all out. It would be really nice to create something that makes sense next time ;) Im really excited to learn more, and incorporate animation into my new project for Edward's House of String.

The creatures fly away by Cindy Derby

Shutter

2010-07-24T03:05:00.000-07:00

Photograph of shutter door in Freiburg, Germany. I think Germany has the most fascinating window shutters. I will continue to photograph these as my next little hobby.

shutter door and dog, by cindy derby

Here I added my own twirl to my photograph of the shutter doors. This captures a piece of Germany for me.

Pretty Canopy

2010-07-23T14:24:00.000-07:00

Anthropologie bed. I love the hanging rustic lighting inside of the canopy. The intimate and hand-patched style inspires me.

little man

2010-07-23T13:56:00.000-07:00

my little man. fat like a penguin and loves to wear his yellow rain coat everyday. enough said.

Threads of my personal style

2010-07-23T07:18:00.000-07:00

I have been awarded a Creative Grant from Puppet Animation Scotland to create my show, Edward's House of String. What began as a picture book for children, has turned into the creation of a 20-30 minute visual theatre piece involving puppetry- aimed at touring around the world next year. I am very excited to announce I will be taking part in the Manipulate Festival, a visual theatre festival featuring amazing companies around the world. I am in love with this craft. I have come to realize that when you believe in something so much- the universe will respond to your needs...that is, when you work hard at it ;)

I am currently in the pre-production phase, rewriting drafts of my script and planning rehearsal spaces, along with hiring a solid team to help build the technical aspects. I want to work with a small community of people that are open and willing to collaborate under my thread of ideas. It will be the first production I have written (as well as designed!). I have to say, I am quite nervous to get started on the rehearsals for it with only 4 months away from the work-in-progress performance.

Since I am doing most of the work, it is a wonderful learning experience to just trust yourself and keep going. The people I will be working with I trust completely, and whom will be a huge involvement of the execution of this piece. Like my mother told me, 1% of the work is inspiration, but the rest is perspiration...yeah thats right, blood and sweat! Everyone has good ideas and dreams, but to make them happen is a whole other hurtle in itself. I am already encountering the challenges, but it also feels nice to be concerned about something relating to your craft...and not silly self-absorbed things in your everyday life.

I feel there is no outcome in this journey because I am committing to a story I believe. My goal is to touch people on a deeper level through the threads of my personal style. And that is a dream of mine that I have for the rest of my life.

I will keep you updated on my progress :)

Yours truly,

Cindy

Here is a photo from a production by Mimika Theatre, which has been included in the Manipulate Festival in a previous year. It was taken place inside of a white tent- just a magnificent show.

Paper Cinema

2010-07-19T14:54:00.000-07:00

Kora and The Paper Cinema

Two birds in the city- another attempt at Cubism

2010-06-23T05:35:00.001-07:00

Cindy Derby, "Two birds in the city", watercolour on paper

My second attempt at creating a cubist style painting. I favor my first attempt at the cubist style-"Curled up". I think it is because the painting is more simple: one person laying down. While painting this piece "Two birds in the city" it resembled too much of a cartoon, that I began overcompensated with paint to make it more elegant.

It is interesting painting in this style- I feel like I have more control...which surprisingly, I like. It is more structured than my other 'flowey' paintings. Drawing simple concrete lines before hand allows me to have rules to work within.

I think creating this balance of structure and flow is what I am looking for- like a playground with boundaries. In having complete freedom- you run the risk of not know where you are going and tripping over yourself in the dark (which I have done many, many times!!). Although this painting falls between 'tripping over myself' and 'structure'- during the session I found myself more at ease when there are lines to guide you.

Perhaps I should keep experimenting in this way. And spend more time on each piece (because I will get more quality and precision). I already have the explosion of color and wildness- now it is just time to focus it (damn!) Plan, structure, and patience...hmmm. Shouldn't I have been picking that up already from living in Germany?

Constanze von Kitzing, Untitled

Constanze is one of my favorite German Children's Book illustrators at the moment. I discovered her after seeing a portfolio viewing of SCBWI while the Bologna Children's Book Festival was going on. It is a dream of mine to be a part of an exhibition at this festival one day. Perhaps in a couple years ;)

I think Constanze von Kitzing uses this cubist expressionist style so beautifully- putting her own twists and mysterious air along with it. It is quite an inspiration. I suggest you check out her 'SketchBook' on her website . All the pieces have such beautiful detail, color and texture.

Picasso Remains

2010-06-22T16:45:00.000-07:00

I couldn't help but be inspired by this cubist-style of painting. Im learning a lot about composition, shape and shading by looking closely at other artists work- such as Picasso & Alexandra Nechita, a young and beautiful artist about my age who is famous for her magnificent talent and skill. I am dumbfounded by her humbleness- she possesses a great desire to keep learning (despite the fact she has been a prodigy since the age of 8 years old.) I feel I have so much to learn as an artist. Some days I get frustrated and feel that all the paintings I make are crap- and I feel like I am crippled by lack of knowledge in this field-and my perspective in paintings are way off. But then I breathe, and realize people like Alexandra are on this learning journey too- no matter how little or how much success life has already showered them.

Cindy Derby "Curling up", watercolour on paper

Curious Cut-outs

2010-06-19T17:54:00.000-07:00

A bird stares at strange blocks

An inverted perspective is always fun. Sometimes I enjoy textures more against black.

Although a rough starting point, I find this is an excellent way in playing with ideas for a story.

Step 1: Apply a thick layer of molding paste to a hard-pressed watercolour paper.
Step 2: After it dries, paint with acrylic to the surface. The more diluted the acrylic, the better you can see the texture. If you wish, apply other paper on top while it is still moist.

Here is an example of a textured piece I made

Step 3: Cut out your pieces into whatever shapes you wish...and begin to have fun!

Then...play around and see what you can find!

Rearranging a bird's Home

_________________________________________________________________

Two little peeps discover something...

A door opens...

red one first...

green one second...

And capoof!

Already ideas are stirring in my head. There are infinite ways to tell a story- whether new or old. It is applying your creativity and restructuring pieces.

Doodles here and there

2010-06-17T14:08:00.000-07:00

bird scraps

three little ghosts

Layered Mountains

2010-06-17T13:57:00.000-07:00

Photos from Yosemite all layered together with Photoshop. Kind of reminds me of the background of old Guess clothing advertisements- where the models look really scruffy.

At the desk

2010-06-10T08:20:00.000-07:00

Sketch 1

My sweet wonderful darling is working so hard at his desk. I couldn't resist but make a quick sketch of him :) He also has like 3 legs because he wouldn't stop fidgeting!

The past

2010-06-10T07:26:00.000-07:00

The Past, by Cindy Derby

Still making final touches on my latest piece! Soon you will be able to purchase a lovely card or small print from Creature Blanket, my online store.

Figures In a Cornfield

2010-06-10T03:10:00.000-07:00

This is a b&w preview of a painting that I am working on. I was inspired by Elizabeth Velacott's Figures in a Cornfield- an illustration I discovered while flipping through a book called Body, Space, Image by Miranda Tufnell and Chris Crickmay. The book is about improvisation and the physical settings of performance- a narrative of discovery that sets the mind loose from the rut of everyday perception. What I most enjoy about Tufnell and Crickmay's book are the photographs and paintings they set along with their text.

Elizabeth Vellacott, Figures in a Cornfield, 1953

A Place in Mind

Let the quality of movement be influences by

the qualities of a place

remembered or imagined.

a hillside

am endless plane

a pier

a table top

the bottom of a well

a stone circle

a glacier

a phone box

Although I can never capture the same energy that Vellacott has in her painting...I read this text from the book and envision a vast space.

While in the midst of painting, I was frustrated by my lack of skill to make the woman appear in the foreground of the man. After many attempts to alter the shape of his body (and that included placing newspaper cutouts on his clothes), I restlessly covered the entire man in depressing black paint- never to be seen again. A moment later, I changed my mind and scrapped the black paint off...only to find a strange cocoon-shape encircling his body.

Hmm...Perhaps this man is only in her thoughts...

The stare

2010-06-07T06:10:00.000-07:00

The Stare, by Cindy Derby

This is an old painting I did a few years back- but recently revisited it with some photoshop work. Although not popular, it is one of my most personal paintings.

2010-06-07T02:52:00.000-07:00

Umbrella, by Cindy Derby

A photoshop composition I created about an umbrella that gets stuck in the trees on a windy day.

Cindy on Etsy

2010-05-30T07:39:00.000-07:00

I am currently setting up an Etsy account to sell my handmade cards & other items!

Two hearts

2010-05-29T06:21:00.000-07:00

By Cindy Derby

Been through a lot recently. But finding much peace when I reveal.

Crooked Feet

2010-05-19T13:24:00.000-07:00

A story I am writing about a bird with crooked feet who lives in a hot desert.

Collage Fun

2010-03-29T09:50:00.000-07:00

Flight of the Umbrella, by Cindy Derby

This is my first time working primarily with collage. At first, I was overly ambitious about using all the pictures I cut out, then I realized to be very selective. I ended up using six images total, and the background is painting. I feel this piece was much stronger when I used less, and created more space. The space tells a story about the relationship between the forms.

My favorite part was cutting out the bodies of an orchestra choir and leaving just the heads. Like an audience from afar.

There is something very spectacular about collage. I think its the process of arranging the fixed photos into an order that makes sense. Or no sense at all. I feel like I am rearranging a reality that is not my own, and making it personal.

Woman who lives in the Trees

2010-03-28T09:01:00.000-07:00

Woman in the Trees, by Cindy Derby

Bird's Nest

2010-03-24T15:38:00.000-07:00

Bird's Nest, by Cindy Derby