Taking Comic Seriously

Filipino comics might have taken a bit of a rest, but it never died — as any Filipino artist like Gerry Alanguilan who is behind Wasted, Johnny Balbona, Human Rex!, Timawa and Elmer, and known as inker for American comic titles such as X-Men, Superman: Birthright, Wolverine, High Roads, Fantastic Four, and Silent Dragon, would try to attest.

As guest of honor in the recently held Fourth Annual Filipino Komiks Convention (KOMIKON 2008) at the UP Bahay ng Alumni, Gerry accommodated questions from comic fans, concerning his craft.

On Young Artists and New Trends of Comic Art
Gerry states, the new comics are “influenced by current trends of [comic-making] not only in terms of art but also in storytelling. Young comic artists are inspired to tell more things in a couple of panels. More text, less art.”

He adds that artists of the new generation need more motivation for them not to appear as if they are just doing the comics for fun. “If you are more serious with your work and you want to do comics for life, you have to uplift the standard of it. Komiks na ang buhay ko,” Gerry sums up.

Of Becoming a Writer-Artist
Gerry is neither more of a writer nor more of an artist. “I’ve trained very hard to combine [the two lines of work].” According to him, a comic is a collaboration of texts: you need both a writer and an artist to complete a comic book. A comic artist must try to come up with a pure collaboration of both though that would be very hard to achieve.

On His Dedication to Comics
Gerry says, he accepted an offer to teach Comic Illustration in College of St. Benilde, School of Fine Arts but he only lasted for a term in the profession because it required too much of his time. With the tight class schedule, he no longer had time to work on his comics. He asserts that if one is serious into entering the comics industry, he or she must have the right state of mind. And of course, if you love what you do, you’ll prioritize it above anything else. Gerry rationalizes, you will do comics not just because of the money and popularity you will earn out of it, but because of the passion you have for it.

On Setting an Example to Young Artists and the Current State of Filipino Comics Gerry believes that all we need is a direction from one generation to the next: the veterans must set a good example of creating comics for the aspiring ones. And at this point, he says, “there’s still the big interest for Komiks kahit nawala na ‘yung malalaking publications like Atlas.” There is simply a need for new comics to be pushed for improvement and for artists to be complacent.

He relates that one way of showing the drive to improve young talents is what KC Cordero, editor of Timawa, tries to pull off with sponsoring comic stripping contests. He also mentions some of the titles he adores including Martial Law Babies, Trese, and Zsa Zsa Zaturnah. Myka Santiago

Want to be a professional komikero like Gerry? Learn about digital comic-making here.

Captured Moments

A video guy keeps the memories alive

A special occasion must remain special after it was gaily celebrated; that serves the purpose of photos and videos. Still and moving pictures allow us to capture the moments that we yearn to cherish all our lives. They help us keep the memories breathing and preserve history from one generation to the next. More than for sentimental reasons, photos and videos have turned out to be evidences—oh so charming evidences of life.

Perhaps, this is why nowadays many people have taken a liking to photography and videography, bringing digital cameras or camera phones with them wherever they go to transform ordinary events into special occasions through the power of technology. But it’s different when it comes to the real thing; the service of a professional is critical in capturing the event at the right moment.

We have grown in a culture that dictates that big events must be treated seriously from invitation cards, to venues, decorations, food and beverages, souvenirs and of course photos and videos; so if the call is on your own wedding, your baby’s first birthday or your daughter’s debut, let the “videoguy” handle it for you.

Rocky de Jesus is the “videoguy” —a videographer, photographer, video editor, and layout artist rolled into one. With a few helpers around, he runs his own freelance business, injecting a style that cannot easily be replicated. His enthusiasm in photography started during his high school days. Eventually, he also learned videography when it has developed into a trend. His burning passion in photography and videography urged him to form a business, which conveniently gave him the license to share his flair to others.

Rocky simply wants to be known as the video guy, always committed to providing excellent services to his customers regardless of the budget they can give in return. He says his rates are negotiable. He stresses that “affordable” means “reasonably priced” and is not equivalent to “cheap”. Myka Santiago

So if you want a photo and video service for weddings, birthdays, baptismal rites, company events, and other special occasions that is reasonably priced, Rocky is your guy. Contact the videoguy here.

Pulling the Strings

Some people say music is only for hobbyists, but for exceptional artists like Holly Angel Paraiso, music is her life—her full-time profession. Holly confesses it is really hard to make a living out of playing harp. Though, with the right amount of passion and dedication, it is not at all impossible for a harpist to create a niche in the Philippine entertainment industry.

Holly Angel is an American who became a Paraiso when she married her Filipino husband Rolando. For 11 years now, Holly’s home is the Philippines. But long before she found her paradise in country, Holly has already established a career as a harpist in Maui Island, Hawaii. She has been playing the harp for 35 years and is currently freelancing in weddings, store openings, fashion shows, product launches, tea services, receptions and other special functions.

Now, Holly shares more about her passion, career and life.

How did you get started?
I heard (someone playing) a harp in an orchestra, one time when I was still young. I really fell in love with it. I begged and begged my parents, until finally they got me a small harp. It wasn’t a big expensive one; it was kind of a tubador. I was 14 or 15 years old when I learned to play that and then I begged for a big one. They got me the really scaled down model, the basic kind but I really appreciated it.

Then when I was a teenager, I saw this beautiful blonde harpist by the name of Kippy Lou Brinkman in a harp conference in Seattle. She was former Ms. Washington State and she was in this beautiful gown playing all these love songs. And then I thought, “That’s what I wanna do!” It just hit me. I knew exactly what I wanted. I said, “Okay, I can do this (play harp) in a restaurant, too”. After a year of studying in Stephens Women’s College in Columbia, I quit and just went straight to work at a local holiday inn where I got a full time job as a harpist. I have never been unemployed since.

What does it take to be a good harpist?
I got proficient in harp after a couple of years. Mastering the harp depends on how much you work at it. Just like any regular musician would do, you have to practice. The longer you practice, the better you can be.

It’s really a necessity that you take piano or keyboard lessons first. It’s a lot easier if you do. The harp has seven foot pedals, and they change the key. The combination your foot pedals are in determines the key. When you have a sharp or flat coming along on the music, you have to press whatever pedal is supposed to be that sharp or flat or natural.

What are the advantages and disadvantages of being a harpist?
I got the market cornered. That is the advantage. There aren’t other harpists. (While, the disadvantage is) the size of the instrument. It’s not like a flute that you can take in a public transportation. I have to have a van and a driver. And because it’s a large instrument, I need at least two persons to carry it. They’re heavy, and if something goes wrong with the harp, I’m out of luck. There’s no one to fix it in this country, and I can’t send them back to United States. That will cost me too much money just to even mail it over there.

Harp is not a popular instrument in the Philippines. Is it hard to sell your services here?
When people know it’s available, they take it. I’m just letting people know that it’s available.

How do you compare playing in Hawaii and playing here in the Philippines?
In Hawaii, everything is so much casual. People go to Hawaii to have a wedding on the beach. The weddings are probably 30 minutes the most. They just want me for the vows and entrance. And they want it on the coast, so I have been sprayed by the water hitting the rocks but I’m a good sport. People love the casualness of Hawaii that’s why they’re there. I’ve never done a beach wedding here.

The rituals here are longer, about two hours or something than in the United States. There, it’s just a just a fraction of that and only a few people are there because they have to fly everybody over. There are not 500 people going to a reception like there is here.

What is your favorite piece?
I love the song “When I Fall in Love”. People, even if they are totally silent, they’d turn around and applaud me for that one. They love that. Maybe it’s because I play it with so much love. It makes me cry. The most requested songs are “Moon River” and “Somewhere in Time”, but my favorite is “When I Fall in Love”. I love the old love songs.

Can your clients request for a song not included in your list?
Oh, you just gave me the notes and I’ll learn it. Even if I don’t know the song (being requested), if it’s their favorite, I’ll learn it for them. And I have never asked for an extra charge. Sometimes, they’ll have a list of pieces. I’ll pick the ones that are really important to them like the song for the first dance.

What is the biggest challenge you have encountered so far as a harpist?
My continuous playing for hours and not giving myself a break would give me blisters, like during Valentine’s Day. That’s a rough day. I would have tough skin on my fingers because I play so often. But when I really overdo it, I get blisters. No, I don’t put ointment, I just leave them alone or it will turn into more tough skin. But I’m very professional. I won’t get up for it. I didn’t even wince. I just smiled and continued. And, a band-aid wouldn’t help because it sounds funny when you have the skin on the strings. And no (you can’t wear gloves), you can’t do that, it will sound muffled.

If you have not become a harpist, what do you think you’d be instead?
First of all, I wouldn’t be in the Philippines. I would not have married my husband. I’d probably still be in the United States. If I didn’t play the harp, I would not have gone to Hawaii. Probably, I’d still be playing the piano. Or actually I think I would have been happy at being a personal chef. I used to love cooking when I was still in Hawaii.

Holly must be born to play harp. She never gets tired of doing it, “I just love to play, play, play until they ask me to quit. I love playing for people. I love what I do and people say it shows.” And as spoken by a true musician, “It feels really good to have it (the harp) under my fingers. Only a harpist can understand the feeling that you needed to play. It feels good when you pull the strings”. Myka Santiago

For professional harp services, click here.

One Happy Artist

It’s a little known fact that artists are rebels at heart. I remember in my college days when I was always so amazed by these cliques…some were legions of some gothic world, some were frustrated musicians, some were avant guarde fashionistas, while some were just plain scary. But whatever their quirks were, I’ve always admired their creativity which I hope is their only drug of choice. And their weapons?...the mighty pen, paintbrush, and perhaps some tailor’s chalk and a pair of shears.

Take it from Happy Andrada, a full-fledged artist who works her magic wherever she can. Fashion design, make-up artist, fashion stylist, boutique and beauty salon owner, and event planner….are just some of her “abilities”. And of course, an artist with such many characters to play, needs an appropriate headquarters of some sort…but not like how a bat cave or a secret hide-out is to a fantastic superhero but more like a hip shrine to pay reverence to unique Filipino talent. That place would be, F*Art (Fashion Art) store –a 2-level, boutique-cum-art gallery in Kamuning, Quezon City.

I think that apart from Happy being a multi-talented virtuoso of art, it is her passion to help other aspiring designers showcase their work, that makes her truly outstanding. F*Art has become a melting pot for fresh Filipino talent…it is a profusion of visual art in all its disciplines. Eye treats include not just couture fashion (cocktail wear, debutante gowns, bridal packages, children’s wear, corporate uniforms, and RTW) but paintings, sculptures, installation art, digital art, lomo photography, etc.–all offsprings from Manila’s young breed of creatives.

So hats off to fashion artist Happy Andrada who celebrates her artistic freedom and in doing so, spruces up this sometimes gloomy city, one funky piece of art a time, while selflessly sharing the creative stage with fellow artists. Romina Tobias

Visit Happy Andrada’s boutique and see more of her art. Click here for contact information and list of services.

Make-up Magic

A Chat with Freelance Make-up Artist

Jasmine Mendiola

A born thespian, Jasmine Mendiola has always been a surge of creative energy. Her animated quirks and vivacious personality without a doubt make her stand out in a crowd. This life of the party however is now channeling that colorful persona of hers as a freelance make-up artist.

As the current Fashion & Beauty Editor of Total Girl Magazine, Jasmine shares her journey towards potentially becoming one of the country’s premier make-up artists

How did you learn doing make-up?
I majored in Theater Arts in Ateneo de Manila. Makeup and prosthetics was one of the topics for Technical Theater, one of my major subjects. Our teachers for that semester were Marlon Rivera and Ricci Chan of Propaganda who saw my potential and encouraged me to apprentice with them.

What inspired you to do it professionally?
My interest in doing make-up only began when a friend complimented my work on my own graduation photo and several makeup plates I was required to do for technical theater. I officially became a makeup artist in 2003. My first clients were friends, particularly Jean Madrid. I was a contributing stylist and make-up artist for Chalk, Youngstar and YES! Magazine. I also had a stint with Citrus Productions for a Ragnarok ad. As for bridal makeup, which is now my forte, my very first client was Che-Ann Manongod.

Any memorable experiences as a wedding make-up artist? What are the perks of being a make-up artist?
A lot of memorable things happen in weddings! Besides the fact that I’m a big fan of weddings and romance in general, a lot of my brides become good friends afterward. I enjoy seeing their radiant faces when they gush after seeing my work. You can really see how confident they become as they shed off their last minute jitters and when everybody raves on how they’re just glowing.

One of my favorite moments is seeing the groom crying happy tears when he sees his bride more beautiful than ever.

What should a soon-to-be bride look for in a make-up artist?
I always say that aside from the artist’s skill and professionalism, it’s a matter of finding the one you're most comfortable with. Because no matter how skillful an artist is, if the two of you aren't on the same page when it comes to the vision of the look you desire, it won’t work out.

Do you give workshops/seminars?
I’ve done several workshops on Basic Makeup application for Robinsons Land courtesy of Marie Claire Magazine. For GMA News Room I gave one-on-one seminars to over 40 newscasters on how to do TV makeup for their job. Other clients are Citibank courtesy of Cosmopolitan Magazine, counter consultations for Beauty Bar (collection launches for Smashbox, Bloom, Pout), Sugarbaby and Lancome. Since I also do personal makeup coaching for individual clients, I’m launching classes around February of this year for that. Romina Tobias

To get in touch with Jasmine, or to be updated on her upcoming classes, see Jasmine Mendiola's ad profile.

Chained Paintings: The Art of Accessory Making

It takes a certain genius to be a qualified accessory-designer. One has to be a meticulous engineer, a passionate artist, and a style maverick all rolled into one creative being.

Kira Ramirez, 26, has been creating hand painted accessories under the name EarthlyDelights since last year. “I started tinkering with beads, precious stones, buttons, chains and ribbons and making them into necklaces and rings during the summer of 2006. At that time, I knew I wanted to have a business of my own – something that I was passionate about and at the same time was fun to do. I am an accessory aficionado so I decided to make them myself and just hoped that people would appreciate and buy them,” she states.

She began with some self-study – relying on fashion magazines, online research, some trial and error. After six months, Kira took a class on beading and wiring techniques under Em Mariano. Armed with sharper skills and a head full of ideas just waiting to take form, she began to venture into the accessory business in April of 2007.

Her initial concerns had to do with the leap from a beloved hobby into becoming part of the accessory industry. She remembers, “At first I only made eight pieces because I didn’t know how people would react to it.”

It took only a short time to allay those concerns. Kira enthuses, “I posted them online and I was so overwhelmed with the response! Then a few weeks after that, Isa Alvarez of Make Love Not War boutique asked if I would be willing to consign my hand painted necklaces there. And three more stores followed suit.”

Kira discovered there was a huge demand for that certain inimitable and exquisitely designed accessory that could put a mark on fashion statements anywhere - and she was was more than happy to fill it.

What is the creative process behind accessory making? Kira reveals, “The theme is the first thing I am concerned with when making necklaces. Right now, I am preparing for my summer collection, which means bright colors, beach-inspired images, florals, etc.The pendants and other raw materials (beads, stones, wires, etc.) are sourced several months in advance which entails having to scour a lot of bead shops."

Kira shares the experience, “I also consult fashion magazines or books, look for fabrics with interesting colors and patterns for design inspiration. The actual painting [of the accessory] is done a few weeks before the target launch date. I must say that I am very fortunate to be able to work with a very good and talented painter whom I share my ideas with. Finally, the finished pendants are attached to either gold or silver chains with minimal beading as the pendants themselves should be the main attraction of the neckpiece.”

As much as possible, Kira tries to make just one piece per design. She also, under certain circumstances, accepts accessory customization. Who does Kira want to see wearing an EarthlyDelight necklace?

“I would like to see someone who is creative and playful wear my necklaces. [Socialite and celebrity] Tessa Prieto-Valdes is a good example—she’s fun, fearless and doesn’t take fashion too seriously,” Kira answers, “My necklaces are so versatile that you can wear them with anything! I initially presented it as an accessory you can wear to the beach – it’s pretty, colorful and waterproof! But I’ve seen customers wear it with the basic tee and jeans ensemble, others with a flattering low-cut dress and some even wear it to work.”

With a luxe line coming out soon, a bag collection and other delightful surprises on its way, EarthlyDelights will continue to flourish its gift of charm and artistry that paradoxically, is quite heavenly. Romina Tobias

A Child’s World through the Hands of an Artist

There is something about Beth Parrocha-Doctolero’s work that makes you want to go back to childhood. It could be its fairy tale-like persona with its soft colors and carefree air. But it could also be the soothing warmth one feels upon looking at it. More than precious works of art, Beth’s illustrations are like a journey to a wonderland, experienced through the heart of a child. In her works, the world looks vibrant and colorful yet innocent and serene.

Beth Parrocha-Doctolero is a well-known artist/illustrator who has displayed her caliber in various children’s books and art exhibits. Her career started when she was still a college student at the University of the Philippines Diliman – College of Fine Arts when her professor recommended her to Cacho Hermanos, a publishing firm then looking for an artist for a children’s book.

Ever since she was young, Beth knew she wanted to be an artist. She has always shown zeal in her craft; her illustrations’ relaxed and playful air masks the discipline and amount of concentration she has invested in creating them. Yet, for someone who understands art, Beth’s passion for her work need not be explained. Her harmonious relationship with her chosen medium is evident in the way she presents her material.

“Watercolor is not an easy medium to use but somehow I've made friends with it and blessed me with its secrets,” she explains her selection.

Work of Art, Work from the Heart

When it comes to her most memorable illustrations, Beth names Ang Pambihirang Buhok ni Raquel published by Adarna House and Pista y ang Kageban by Infolink Palawan, as both books have challenged her resources as an artist. Ang Pambihirang Buhok ni Raquel tells of a story of Raquel, a girl who is envied because of her long and flowing hair. Yet, underneath her beautiful hair lies a sad secret. On the other hand, Pista y ang Kageban (Feast of the Forest) is about the annual tree-planting festival in Palawan.

While Pambihirang Buhok put her creativity and sense of play into test, Pista required her to prepare emotionally and mentally. She shares, “(With Pista,) it’s the first time that I had to draw so many people and trees. I believe that an artist can be able to draw anything if he puts his mind into it. Before Pista, I had never drawn people realistically, and had trouble doing trees. But somehow I was able to overcome it, well enough to be proud of the outcome of the book.”

Her experience in doing illustrations for Pista drove her to realize that “the only thing I had to do (to be able to overcome the challenge) was to accept the fact that I can do it. It was as simple as that.”

Beth’s emotional involvement in her art is perhaps what made her admire famous American author and children’s book illustrator Lane Smith. Lane is best known for his collaborations with author Jon Scieszka. They have teamed up on books such as The Stinky Cheese Man, which was considered a New York Times "Best Illustrated Book."

The Filipina illustrator admits that Lane influenced her on the way he presented his subject matter. “He allows the viewer to participate emotionally in his pictures. When you look at a Lane Smith illustration, something about it will trigger an emotional response. And somehow, that's what I would like to impart on my work as well,” she says.

Through the years of being an artist, Beth follows one simple principle: to enjoy what she is doing. And Beth definitely feels good working for children. Her works of arts are works from her heart, which mesmerize not only the children but also the children at heart. Willeth Laus

See more of Beth Parrocha-Doctolero’s works and contact information here.