What are good ways for people to find out about the local designers here?

Oh Jeez. I think you should just came here, you would discover it for yourself.

But if I were to name some names, I would start with the on-line, arts magazine called PORT. I read it daily and it serves the overall creative community. It’s comprehensive, collaborative, and controversial. You can’t agree with it all. But who would want to? I would also suggest that you pick up a local newspaper called The Mercury – to get all of the rock club listings, but also to take in the art reviews penned by John Motley and Chas Bowie. I recommend getting on the interweb and finding out what is happening at a few non-profits in town. Namely, the Portland Institute for Contemporary Art (PICA), The Portland Art Center and Blue Sky Gallery. Local academic institutions, like Reed College, Marylhurst University, and PSU work diligently to program contemporary ideas.

Had Had, 2006, Ink on paper, 43″ x 42 3/4″ *Included in the Portland Art Museum Biennial 2006 Courtesy of PDX Contemporary Art

Established art galleries like Pulliam Deffenbaugh, PDX Contemporary Art and The Elizabeth Leach Gallery have all relocated in the past years, reflecting the growing arts community. Better, bigger spaces – for better, bigger works.

In Old Town and across the river, exciting, emerging galleries have consistently shown progressive work. In particular, Motel, Small A and New American Art Union (NAAU).

I am also a huge fan of The Half and Half and Valentines. Both representing a lot that is good about this town, providing space for creative people to hang out and show their ideas.

The Dalles, 2006, Ink, gouache on paper, 24″ x 36″ Courtesy of PDX Contemporary Art

Could you tell us about the concept of the SHIFT cover?

It kind of speaks for itself. It’s a sexual pun about an erotic notion I have had since I was a kid. Initially the text was more obscene. I made revisions so it would work more imaginatively. Someone said recently, “I don’t know what it means, but I totally get it.” I think it’s pretty obvious. It makes me laugh.

Do you have designers/artists/books/and any other things or people? you’ve been influenced by?

This is almost impossible to answer. Influence is a huge part of why I make things. I’m infatuated with so much stuff its hard to narrow it down. Contemporary Art makes me nervous so for influence I look at a lot of older work. That is not to say my work expresses the influence – but rather it may express a quality or a style. I love Sargeant. I love Degas and Bernini. Natori Shunsen has been a significant influence over the past few years. I like writers and musicians – designers and photographers. Actors play a huge roll in my work. I’ve been thinking a lot about Gloria Swanson.

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