Dream On

My name is Travis and I'm a dreamer...

Yes, it's true, and I can't help it. I only know how to think "outside the box". I constantly aspire to be more than I am. I'm not satisfied working day in and day out for someone else's dreams. I have too many of my own.

People tell me I need to "grow up" or that I should settle for what's "obtainable". They tell me to get a "real job" and that I need to own up to my responsibilities. "That's life" they say. "Get used to it" they say. My friends and family, the ones closest to me are the biggest advocates for this. Not that they don't love and support me. They just can't help but try to keep me grounded. They call me a "Dreamer".

A Dreamer....

Like it's a bad thing.

Dreamer...

Like I've got some bad habit I need to kick.

Why can't they see it? Why can't they understand? Dreamers are the only ones that ever do. They create what has never been created. They accomplish what others say can't be done. They are the ones responsible for anything with any significance. Look at any notable figure throughout history. All Dreamers. Good or bad, it all starts with a dream.

If anything, the world needs more dreamers. We need to encourage those who would venture forth into the unknown to do something that has never been done. Where would we be if not for the like of these? We can't let ourselves be responsible for putting out that fire within another. We need to stoke the flames! Ignite the passion within one another. If there's anything that separates us from animals it's our ability to dream. Our innate ability to aspire to be something aside from what we are. For without that we're nothing but drones drudging about from one menial task to another.

So be a Dreamer! And be proud of it! For whether you are acknowledged now or in the history books of future generations, you'll never be if you don't let yourself dream.

Analysis Paralysis

This is something I suffer from a lot. I'll find myself with so many ideas or projects but no idea which one to work on. A large portion of this comes from the fact that it's sometimes very difficult to know what will yield the greatest return/ benefit. Or if there will be any benefit at all. Sometimes I feel like I've got a super great idea for an art piece. I feel that by completing it I will excel to the next level of my career. Perhaps it will be so profound that I will finally achieve the notoriety that all artists strive for in their careers. However as with most cases, once finished and put out in the world I will often get little more than a fleeting glance.

Now I'm not complaining. I mean every step forward no matter how small is still a step forward. Which is the only direction I care to go. But that's not to say that it can't be discouraging at times. There are art pieces that I literally pour my heart and soul into. They are a literal extension of my inner being thrust upon canvas and displayed for all to judge. Yet people look at them for all of two seconds then continue on with their lives unphased. It's hard not to take that personally although I do have to say that I've become quite good at it. More of a desensitization rather than symbol of my maturity however.

This is why it's so hard though... I want so bad to do something noteworthy. Something people stop and say "Hey, wow, That's interesting!". And for it to really resonate. I want to be one of those artists whose work people can't help but share with their friends. It's just so hit and miss. So when it comes time to deciding what to work on next I often am hit with hesitation, not wanting to invest time in something that's not going to achieve ideal results.

The Answer for this is just to do... Regardless of whether or not the results will be there. There's simply never a guarantee they will be. If I sit around trying to think up or decide upon what's the absolute most effective use of my time and ability I will likely never create anything and therefore waste both. The only way is to push forward into the unknown, hoping the rest will follow. That's actually why I began writing this blog... It's a form of "doing". And here is a gem of wisdom for ya; As long as you keep on doing you will get stuff done! Yes, that's right I'm quite the genius, I know.

So that's my plan... Do stuff.. So if you sometimes wonder why some of my creations/ ventures make no sense, it's because they don't have to. I just need to "do" them.

 Until next time
Don't hate, [ART]iculate!

Another Day, Another D'oh!!

Figures.... Just when things seem to be looking up, that's when I get hit in the face with life. Now don't get me wrong. I'm a very positive person, and it will take a lot more than a few bumps in the road to halt this journey. I have a high level of tenacity and never give up. Even when sometimes it's best that I do...

Anyway, it just seems that circumstances like the ones I'm about to describe are far too common in my life. But again, this is not to gain pity or any hand outs. This is just to maintain the reality of this blog. *Stuff* happens. It's not always good, happy life is amazing stuff although that is exactly what keeps me moving forward. And as I have mentioned previously, this blog is an unabashed and honest look at my experiences existing as an artist.

You may remember me saying that one of my sources of income is as a graphic designer. This is a significant blessing to me as it provides a certain amount of stability to my income. Generally speaking work as a graphic artist is much more consistent than that of a traditional artist. At least in today's day and age. There's just so many online and print publications that use these services that it just comes a lot easier. Actually I just landed a job working for a local discount coupon magazine. This is big because it's a small but consistent pay check. However it seems that no sooner did I acquire this employment that my computer decided it doesn't want to work anymore. At least not reliably. As a matter of fact, it would be a miracle if I make it through writing this blog without it crashing.

Luckily for me one of my good friends is a computer repair specialist. Now that doesn't mean I have all my repair needs handled for free. But at least he's someone I can trust and is flexible with his work time and schedule. Also he is willing to trade some repair service for some ad time on The Chalkmobile! So overall there are certain benefits to the connection for both of us.

Speaking of The Chalkmobile however... it is in dire need of some TLC! The poor van is starting to show it's age. I feel like I'm in a race against time. What's going to happen first? Will it really take off and become a genuine viable source of self sustaining income? Or will it break down before I have the funds to maintain it?.. I'm a single father of 3 so these questions plague me daily. But in the end all I can do is keep going. I'll never know it's true potential unless I keep pushing forward. And like I said, I never give up! I've always got by through prayer, hard work and determination. Nothing is going to change that. And if I could be any example to my children it would be just that.

Well what do ya know, I made it through writing this post. Maybe things are looking up after all.

Until next time
Don't hate, [ART]iculate!

Networking is Key

Today I spent some time at the Community Expo put on by the Glendora Chamber of Commerce. Okay, okay... I spent the WHOLE time at the Community Expo. And let me tell ya, I'm glad I did. I met a lot of great people and am excited about what will come from that. I knew it would be smart for me to go down there and promote myself a little bit, but I had no idea what benefits would start to present themselves.

I went there expecting to introduce myself to some of the local businesses and hand out some cards. Then return home and hope the effort would eventually pay off. Instead I found myself really connecting to people. As a matter of fact, I almost didn't have enough time to hit every booth! Everyone was very friendly and interested in The Chalkmobile. I couldn't have asked for a better experience.

I think one of the best aspects regarding The Chalkmobile is how it allows me to be more involved in the community. In turn it thrives on that involvement. After today I not only feel more involved than ever but also have a clear direction I am heading toward being even more so. The Chalkmobile will no longer just be that crazy van people see driving around... I mean it still will be... But in addition there will be even more interaction with it!

I won't be giving away too much more just yet. Just be sure that you are going to see a lot more of it in the coming months. Including art, advertising, community events and collaborative efforts with local businesses. I can't wait till you see what I'm chalkin' up next!

Until next time
Don't hate, [ART]iculate!

Inspiring Young Artists

As an art teacher I pride myself in not only delivering the "how to" process but also taking opportunities to show the students the applicable side of art. For instance last year I had the honor of illustrating the children's book And Teddy Too with my brother who happens to be a writer. I would bring it in and show it to the students. They really enjoyed seeing a tangible example of where a passion for art could lead them.

This year I am doing something similar with The Chalkmobile only this time more interactive. Not only am I showing them one more facet in which art can be applied but I'm also inviting them to take part in a special design contest. They are able to actually submit designs for a chance to have their work featured on the actual vehicle. That's also available to absolutely anyone. You can learn more about it here.

Meanwhile, at home there's my own kids. My oldest Amber (10) often tells me how much she wants to be an artist just like me when she grows up. I feel that this is pretty common with kids to want to be what their parents are no matter what. At least at this age.... But I can't help but see an opportunity here. She spends an awful lot of her time drawing and then trying to sell her work to family members. She usually doesn't charge real money but every once in a while that's exactly what she gets.

She has come to me countless times asking if I would put her work up for sale on any of the venues I use. My initial instinct is to to say no. Not only is it not what you would traditionally see for sale in these places but also I feel the need to shelter her from some of the difficult aspects of the art world. There tends to be a a lot of rejection. As a matter of fact an artist will almost always encounter more "Nos" than "Yeses". It's simply the harsh reality of the art world.

However, I got to thinking and I started noticing the benefits of letting her try. It's much like letting them participate in any type of competitive sport. There will always be losses and defeat. That's a fact of life. It's our job as parents to be there for our kids through those times to encourage them to keep going and not give up. After all, that's where all the reward comes from. You can't ever win if you don't try. When you fail at something it presents a unique opportunity to grow and improve. Maybe now is as good of a time as ever to begin easing her into that cycle.

Who knows? Maybe she'll be the next big thing in the art world. I'm not about to sit here try to sell her as a savant but honestly speaking she is very talented. More so artistically than I was at her age. And I only see that talent growing as she does. Any money she brought in would go straight into her savings and/or be monitored and spent wisely. Which allows her to learn about making mature financial decisions earlier rather than later. That's a benefit generally not present in youth sports.

I guess the bottom line is that I can see the learning potential in her doing this. And I would rather believe in her and be wrong than not believe in her and be right.

I'd be happy to hear your thoughts on this.

Until next time,
Don't hate, [ART]iculate!

'Tis the Season (kinda)

I don't know what it is but there's something about Halloween for me that kicks off the rest of the holiday season and puts me into a giving mood. Maybe it has something to do with the copious amounts of candy granted for simply knocking and shouting "Trick-or-Treat!!". In any case, it transforms me into the Artist some call "Kitty-Claus".

In the past, this giving feeling has spurred me to do such things as deliver fifty original pieces of artwork to random strangers houses in the wee hours of the morning. Unfortunately I am not in a position to do something of that grandeur this time around, but that doesn't mean that those should go without an opportunity to receive some original artwork for free!

Beginning today I will be posting photos of original art pieces created by me that I will be giving away to lucky collectors! All you have to do is "like" and or comment on the photos as they are posted on the TCAT Facebook. No Tricks, Just the Treats! Oh, and don't worry, I'll be giving away plenty before the holiday season is up. And in lots of different styles and mediums! There will be something for everyone!

So what are you waiting for?! There's original art to win! The first one has already been posted! Don't forget to share your thoughts!

Until next time,
Don't hate, [ART]iculate!

Attention Creatives!

I am currently looking for artists/designers who are interested in having their work seen driving around town on The Chalkmobile! It's literally open to anyone and all ages. All you have to do is save or print this Chalkmobile template and get creative! Using any medium you wish, You can color it or write a message. Even promote a business! Then simply share your completed design on The Chalkmobile Facebook Page for your chance to win! It's that easy! 

The winning design will then be chalked directly onto The Chalkmobile by yours truly and driven around the Glendora area (and more) for about a week! You'll be able to point it out to your friends and family and say "That's my design!". Pretty cool, right?

Just a hint: The more popular designs will have an increased chance of winning. However, it is not based on popularity alone. So make sure you share your post with all of your friends! 

I hope to see some really awesome designs soon! 

Until next time
Don't hate, [ART]iculate!

A Sticky Situation

So... I'm just gonna say it. I'm making sculptures out of glue. You know... just your good ol' Elmer's White Glue. I know... weird. But it's like I said before, I get a creative (or strange) idea in my head and the best thing I can do is get it out. So yeah, there's that. 

I'm currently working on three different pieces. It's a very, very long process that requires a lot of patience. I mean I tend to be a patient person but this is testing my limits with that. Every day I am able to add a few drips of glue here and there, slowly building it into something. What am I building? Well, right now I'm still trying to figure that out myself. Seeing as I've never done this before I'm still getting down the technique. That is... if there even is such a thing. 

I'm not sure how these will turn out. Frankly, that's not the point. It simply helps to be working on something consistently that could possibly have an interesting end result. It's kind of therapeutic in a way. Another benefit is that although they take an outrageous amount of time to create, (I'm on week two of who knows how many) I really only have to devote a minimal amount of time each day to constructing them. It's a little like watering a plant... Which... I struggle with... So, maybe this isn't the best project for me after all. In any case, my point is that I still have free time to continue other projects and responsibilities. So it's like I'm being double productive! Yeaya!

Perhaps in the future I will post pictures as they are completed or at least start to resemble something. I will however hold off on that for now because well... Right now they are about as interesting as you would imagine a blob of glue being. If by chance you have a rather unnatural obsession with glue or other sticky things and can't live without seeing pictures then by all means comment below. I may be compelled to oblige. 

In the mean time
Godspeed

I'm Sorry Rain, We Can't Be Friends

You may have seen an old, beat up Chevy Astro Van driving around town with something very unique about it. Sometimes it looks classy and professional with business advertising on it. Sometimes it looks creative and artistic covered with a mural. Sometimes it looks like a hundred or more little kids scribbled all over it. Which, by the way is exactly why it looks like that. If any of this is sounding familiar then What you have likely seen is The Chalkmobile. That's my ride. 

The Chalkmobile is a van covered in chalkboard paint. The same kind you can find in pretty much any hardware store. The stuff designed to turn any surface into a chalkboard. I thought; "Hey, why not my ugly old van?". Thus The Chalkmobile was born. 

Now to be honest I didn't realize how awesome it would actually be. I did it simply because I wanted to decorate it and see if I could raise it's cool factor, but I couldn't decide on what I wanted permanent. So I decided to make it where I could decorate it however I want then just wash it off and start again. Now I take it to events to let others enjoy it and advertise for various companies since it achieves a lot of visibility. 

I'm kinda like a super hero now in the sense that I have a vehicle that is directly related to my super ability. Art is a super power, right? Anyway, as with any notable hero there will always be the villain. That dastardly arch nemesis who exists only to antagonize and cause problems. Mine is rain... It's The Chalkmobile's only weakness. Luckily for me we don't get all that much rain here. I mean, I wouldn't be able to do this at all in Seattle... Or England... So at least there's that. 

The problem is that The Chalkmobile has become a source of income for me. As a matter of fact it's currently my primary source of income, outperforming all of my other artistic ventures combined. And honestly that's not saying a whole lot right now because being financially successful as an artist is rather tricky. That's why every dollar I can bring in from any source is important...

...And rain costs me money...

 ..So therefore we cannot be friends. 

The Story of The Chalkmobile! - How It All Began

       It all started back in 2007 when I used to manage a storage facility. More often than not when people would clear out their storage units they would leave behind things they didn't want. Most of the time it would be trash and debris from their stored clutter. But every once in a while they would leave something useful. That was the case the day I discovered a single can of spray on chalkboard paint. The label on the can stated "Turn any surface into a chalkboard!". Being an artist I immediately started visualizing potential projects involving the chalkboard paint. However, nothing really stood out as something I wanted to use it for so I tossed it in a bin with the rest of my art supplies kept for future projects.

      Fast forward to 2013 and now working as an artist full time, I was sorting through my supplies when I rediscovered that same can of chalkboard paint. I couldn't help but reconsider it's possibilities. Suddenly the proverbial light bulb went off. You see, being an artist can be pretty expensive. And I had been looking for an inexpensive way to create artwork while achieving maximum exposure. That single can of spray paint was the key to all I was looking for. I decided I would use it to paint the hood of my 1996 Chevy Astro van then in turn would be able to create chalk art murals that I could show off as I drove around. Excitedly I made all the preparations and attempted to spray on the first coat. Unfortunately what came out was an unpleasant sputtering and dripping of thick cloudy paint. But I wasn't about to give up just yet. The concept was still strong and a fresh new can would only set be back about $7. So off to the hardware store I went. Once I arrived in the paint department I was greeted with an alternative choice. "Roll on" chalkboard paint. Far more economical per ounce I could afford to paint the entire van. After a quick coat on the hood and front fenders I knew I had made the right choice! It not only met my expectations but it actually looked kinda nice!

      After impatiently waiting the recommended curing time I set out to "Chalk it up". But I didn't do this alone. I brought out my 3 children and we picked up some chalk and went to town. We had so much fun that I knew in that very moment that The Chalkmobile as we would come to call it couldn't just be for my own creative purposes. It was something everyone would enjoy! So I began taking it out to parks, shopping centers and public plazas letting random strangers chalk it up with me. It was a blast! Then before I knew it I was being invited to feature The Chalkmobile at all kinds of events where attendees would be able to experience The Chalkmobile for free! I couldn't have ever imagined what an impact The Chalkmobile would have on the community.

Check it out!

Let's Chalk and Roll!

Today I created some listings trying out three different price points for advertising on The Chalkmobile. Each with different features. I'm not exactly sure what people are willing to pay for such a service but after doing some research I feel like I'm offering a very fair price. Of course, there isn't anything else out there exactly like what I'm attempting to do so it's all trial and error from here on. I am leaving it open for best offers. Mostly because I'm in a situation where I need to consider all options. However, this surely doesn't mean I can accept anything that is going to end up costing me. The expenses for running The Chalkmobile are pretty significant with the price of fuel and chalk being my main incursions. I'm not exactly driving a hybrid here. At least the math is pretty simple. With any luck I'll get some hits and snag some income.

 Being an artist, an income can be quite illusive. People tend to "love" your work but not enough to pay for it. This is a well known plight for creators. You earn practically nothing until you "make it" then all of the sudden people will kill for your least significant creation. Most will never "make it" at all. But If all I cared about was money I definitely wouldn't have chosen this profession. Honestly I don't even feel like I "chose" it at all. It's simply who I am. It's in my blood... This insatiable urge to create that which I conceive in my mind. It's not just limited to the traditional works like drawings and paintings. It finds it's way into nearly every facet of my life. Hence me converting my only form of transportation into a rolling piece of artwork.

 If someone were to ask me why I am an artist my answer would be something of the sort. Technically speaking I am just a man with a bunch of ideas. I need to vent these ideas otherwise they continue to pile up and literally impede me both mentally and physically. It's as if I can feel their weight bearing down upon me. If I do not release that pressure it shuts me down completely. Art is simply one of the easiest ways that I have been able to accomplish that.

 This is both good and bad. On one hand I have an efficient outlet for ideas. On the other hand creating art can be quite costly with both money and time. So of course the obvious solution would be to sell my creations... Simple enough in concept but as all artists and most non-artists know, it's really not that easy. Trust me I've tried to give it up. Many of my Facebook fans can attest to that. I guess in the end it's just harder for me to give up than to keep trying. So in the mean time I keep on creating in hope that eventually supply will meet demand in a fashion that allows me to adequately support my creativity and my family.

Looking Up

I have reached a point in my life where things are about as bad as they can get. The proverbial "rock bottom" as one might say. My bank account has a negative balance. My wallet only faring slightly better. My living situation uncertain. My cellphone, a valuable tool for business and social interaction now shut off. I no longer own anything to wear that would be considered "presentable". I dream of a day where I can comfortably support my family without having to burden anyone else. I have three young children who depend on me.  My daily driver, a 1996 Chevy Astro Van that is showing signs of giving up the ghost is also the only thing currently bringing me any income. With a generous coat of chalkboard paint I have converted it into "The Chalkmobile". I take it to public locations and events letting people "Chalk it up". I'll also do a live demonstration of my own skills, usually on the hood. This helps me get a few more $ in the tip bucket.

Dale Bros - Summerfest!

Design done for Gooey

Although my situation is extremely dire, I can't say that I've ever had more hope. The people I have been able to meet and connect with via The Chalkmobile have been amazing. There's something magical about it's ability to break social barriers in ways I've never been able to as an artist to date. It allows me to not only express my self artistically and show it off publicly but also let others do the same. They can create art or write a message. Anything goes! Well... Almost anything... Kids love The Chalkmobile.

 My point is that I feel like I'm right on the cusp of something amazing! This old beat up van holds so much potential! Not only for the above reasons but for so much more! Using my ability as an artist I can literally create any design on the vehicle's surface. This includes graphics that can be used for advertising purposes.
Using simple chalk I can create vivid and attention grabbing displays for companies. Complete with their contact details and any other information they want to display. Their design, logo and information can then be seen all over town on this mobile billboard. But what really makes this advantageous for companies is the fact that since it's completely done in chalk it grabs even more attention than traditional methods. Plus the Chalkmobile has an ever increasing web and social media presence. This means that not only do you get the physical advertising but also significant online advertising. A business really can't lose when advertising on such a unique platform.

Also, The Chalkmobile is great for all kinds of events. Imagine letting everyone at a birthday party transform it into one giant birthday card! Or decorating it in celebration at a wedding! Attendees can sign their name or write an encouraging message then take photos that instantly become unique and unforgettable memories. With a little extra TLC the Chalkmobile can actually be used as the car that transports the newly weds off to their honeymoon! Or can be rented out like a limousine as an awesome ride to prom or other celebration! I have so many great ideas for this van present and future. The possibilities seem endless! It's all right there... sitting on four wheels in my driveway. One big box of hope. But can it transport me from the depths of my current circumstances? Only time will tell. In the mean time I pray and just keep on chalkin'! 

Personal Thoughts and Observations - A Little Back Story

Originally this series of blog posts had the slightly different title Personal Observations and Thoughts which I had planned to refer to as P.O.T. for short. However, I decided against it on the slight chance that someone might get the wrong impression. You see, I have never even tried marijuana in any form. I am proud of that choice. I am proud not because it makes me better than anyone or places me on a pedestal of any sort but because it is my choice. And I believe one should be proud of the choices they make and take ownership of them. Otherwise it is likely not a good choice. Though even regret has it's benefits for it teaches some of the most powerful lessons in life.

Personal Thoughts and Observations - First Impressions are Everything?

First impressions are everything...

We tend to classify individuals upon first impression. We do this without conscious recognition. They are either ordinary or extraordinary. We see a man performing in front of a crowd of thousands at a sold out show so he must be extraordinary. How else could he demand such attention? We see a man performing on a street corner or other random free access public location. Surely he must be quite ordinary. Why else wouldn't he be performing in front of a crowd of thousands? What if they are the same man?

Presentation and Perception

It has so much to do with these to things.. It makes me sick. Perhaps you can detect a certain amount of disdain for this fact. One reason is due to the fact that once categorized by an individual it can be extremely difficult to "re-classify" yourself in their eyes. Another reason is a little more personal. I tend to be very soft spoken and unassuming, especially in public and social situations. I rely more on my ability to listen and observe than my ability to speak. For this I have been called awkward, stuck-up, shy, rude and dumb. Not to mention countless other things. I have been told I have "issues", a "problem" or "disorder". All assumptions based on first impressions. My unassuming nature also places me firmly into the realm of "ordinary".

You may be thinking that my point in saying these things is simply to convince you that I am not ordinary and I should be lifted from it's confining nature ascending to the privileged realm of the extraordinary. Next I will explain the reason why I deserve the re-assessment and re-classification. No, Not exactly. My intended message is in fact this:

There is no ordinary

Examine the life of any man or woman and you will find reason to be amazed. Some (usually the quiet ones) may truly astound you! So now I issue you a challenge. Consider who you feel is your most "ordinary" friend, family member, co-worker or general acquaintance. Invite them out for lunch or coffee and some good old fashioned conversation. Find out what makes them extraordinary. I guaranty you there is plenty about them that makes them so. You may be genuinely surprised.

Personal Thoughts and Observations - Time is Money?

Time is money... I've mostly heard this within the context of business. I suppose this makes sense due to the associations with two common statements. First, One is generally paid per time spent working. Second, One is usually more profitable when most productive with their time. Although there are certain truths derived from both these statements, "Time is money" simply is not one of them. You see this implies that time and money are equal. This acknowledgement may benefit you from a financial standpoint but is limited to just that.

In order to benefit on a larger scale including but not limited to finances we must propose and enforce a new statement.

Time is currency

You may be thinking "What's the difference?". It's simple... Money is a type of currency. It is a physical and uniform means of exchange. Currency however is made up of many things. Actually anything can take on the role of currency if valued by at least one of the parties in an exchange.

So how can we benefit from this concept? First of all, your time must be most valued by you. You must acknowledge that you retain full control of your personal economy. Your rate of exchange, your supply and demand... Each choice you make is a direct reflection of how much you value your time.

Secondly we must value the time of others. Understand that when a person gives you their time they are in fact giving you part of their life and there are no refunds on that exchange. What could be more valuable than that?

In conclusion:

Time =/= Money

Time > Money

Time = Currency

Furthermore, it is the most valuable currency known to man. Exchanged advantageously, with time one can be, do, or have

ANYTHING