8-BIT Waterslide in REAL LIFE!

20th Anniversary of the Reebok Pump

Michael Chang is right up there with Jordan as one of my all-time heroes in sports. That's right I chose my favourites by the shoes they wore. Watching Chang lace up those OG Victorys in this video made my heart PUMP.

Pigeon: Impossible

Odosketch #3

A ryukin goldfish.

Magic Highway USA (HQ)

Odosketch #2

15 minutes on the tablet. Been slacking on the drawing lately. Time to pick it up.

Videogioco by Milkyeyes

Amazing stuff. Must have taken forever to make this animation work.

I Can Transform Ya

Not a Chris Brown fan, but ain't gonna front. This video is the ish.

Glow In The Dark

Ok. If they GOTTA make a DVD of this tour. Its just not right if they don't. This promo is SO HYPE!

The Shake Weight For Men

Hilarious. Who comes up with this ish?

Tablet Odosketch #1

Haven't used the tablet in a while. Never been good at using it, so hopefully these exercises will help my control. Here's my niece in a panda suit.

odosketch

I'm probably late on this, but I just discovered this online sketch tool called odosketch... its pretty darn cool. Not only does it save your drawing, but it also records your process. So you can replay it afterwards. Fun! There are quite a few good drawings featured on this site. I think I'll try doing my 5 minutes-a-day drawing exercises using this tool. Since you can just copy the embed code, it makes for a quick post.  Can't wait to practice my tablet skills on this. Here's my first experiment using a mouse.

Keeping the dream alive.

Been looking for something to get amped about.. something to excite me. Maestro provides some inspiration here, visiting the Nike Campus. Easy and I visited this place last year, but of course were NOT allowed in. It'll always be a dream of mine to work there. Right now.. seems more like a fantasy.. but you never know. Gotta keep the dream alive.

The Roc Boys in the building tonight.

Dayam that sounds nice with the live band. Check out this BBC interview/performance.

Run This Town?

Pure comedy.

Turtle turtle turtle.

Tomorrow's a new day.

Past couple days have been like crawling through mud. My energy level is soo low and negative. Shoulders are tight. Changing old habits has been difficult. Not a good start to my campaign of reaching the next "rich day".

zzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzz.

Rule #8: Pay attention to the numbers.

As Dru has reminded me, I have a horrible sense of time. Its a definite must that I improve on this if I plan on being successful at anything. Along with time, I also have trouble dealing with anything having to do with factual numbers. Hard numbers scare me! I've developed a fear of hard truths. I think I like the idea that everything can be bent and molded into something that appears pleasing to me. Ummm.. yah.. time to face the facts. So as Dru has recommended.. look at the numbers as often as you can. Check your bank account.. know exactly whats going on.. look at your watch.. how much time do you really have?

The rules are piling on...

One step at a time.. lets tackle em.

Rule #7: Retain and Regurgitate

I had a great conversation with Vince and Danny earlier this evening. Picked their brains a bit and ask them on how I could improve my communication skills when dealing with business matters.  They both provided good advice. One of the themes they recommended was that I try remembering something interesting that someone else tells me and regurgitating that information to another party. Its simple enough and should help me talk to more people. I should be interacting and participating in conversation instead of being the silent guy at the table. It should also help me develop a stronger opinion on things. I'll try to do this at least once a day.

Jaan Pehechaan Ho

Amazing stuff. My inspiration for the day.

Lost

Just last night, Steve, who is a very good story teller, explained to me – in less than 5 minutes – what the TV Series “Lost” is all about. He broke it down in a very simple and easily understood manner, season by season. I wish I could gather my thoughts like that and explain something to someone else with such clarity. My thoughts are always jumbled and a speak like an idiot. ANYWAY.. I digress, cuz I’m not posting about my speech impediment, rather I want to talk about my feelings. And what I’m feeling right now is sad. :0( Boooooo. hehe. I’ve got all these thoughts in my head and its taking up all my memory.. everything else is starting to crash. Its time to ablate and write/type it all out.

So what happened is that I just came back from an incredible trip in Hawaii...yes, yes.. what the f*ck does this guy have to be sad about right? Yah I’m aware that it is completely selfish and that I have a bad attitude towards this whole thing about feeling sad.. heck I should be totally recharged and ready to go right? NOPE. What actually ended up happening was a punch in the throat. A feeling of let down. Its been hard to swallow and embrace anything lately. I feel like I came back with a clean perspective of my current life. That somebody just gave my life back to me in its current state and I can’t help but feel sh*tty about it. Here take it.. this is yours. F*ck this sh*t is heavy! Do I have to take it? I came back a different person from when I left. I came back with no worries... smiles ear to ear, but of course... the Rich that exists here was just waiting for me.

Its been an introspective week. Trying to figure out why I feel the way I feel. Yes, coming from paradise back to work is a stark contrast and anybody would feel somewhat sad about leaving paradise. Which brings me back to Steve and “Lost”.. he explained that in the 4th or 5th Season(?) the people on the island found a way to escape, but when given the opportunity half of them elected to stay, finding that their lives on the island were much better than their past lives that they left behind. BLAU... thats exactly how I feel. except... I would want to stay on the island only if all my friends and family were with me! haha. I want everything damnit! At any rate.. I dont think I’m trying to say that I reaaally want to start a new life in Hawaii and leave my life in Vancouver for good. I love Vancouver... I would never do something drastic like that. What I think has happened is that I realize that I’ve made a mess of things here. That I’ve set myself up for sadness and frustration. The good news is that I also realize the possiblity of living a happier life. If I can be THAT happy in Hawaii.. why couldn’t I bring atleast some of that style of living back home. Why the f*ck not?

Okay, so after all this blabber.. whats the result? Gotta change things up and make some rules for myslef to ensure a change in my life. Maybe not so much rules... just guides.. so I remember to change. I tend to forget that I’m not satisfied and just get stuck in the routine again. Alright.. so here it is:

1. Treat my 9-5 as a 9-5. Be more consistent with my hours.. get to work early and reduce the OT. Work is work. Leave it there.

2. Complete all side projects/freelance work and reject anything new coming in. Say NO Rich, its okay to say NO. I must free up my time and concentrate on personal projects for a while. Gotta nurture that creativity and not worry so much about doing business and pleasing others. F*ck it, gotta make ME happy now!

3. Exercise: run/bike/weights/basketball/vball/dance. I love sports and activities.. I cannot live without it.

4. Friends. Make a point of seeing my friends atleast once a week. They are important to me and they balance me out.

5. Try being an influencer and not an accomadator. I think this requires a post of its own to explain fully.. but basically gotta learn to be confident and be more forward.. be sure about my ideas and not just take orders from others. Lets RUN THIS SH*T.. take charge! Stop aplogizing.. no more of that weak sh*t. F*ck the servant, make everyone happy type attitude.. its not working.

6. Last but not least. Pay attention to Easy and make her feel special. We spend tons of time together, but that doesn’t mean that I’ve been a good partner. She improves me, I gotta show my appreciation.


Will this ensure happiness in my life? We’ll see.

Jay-Z Rhapsody Commercial

Hype sh*t.

Pen and Paper

Have been drawing a bit more lately. I'm on a quest to develop my skills as rapidly as possible. Going to try to use this blog as a tool for design practicum again. Possibly revive the 15 minute sketches? Or maybe change it up to 5 minute exercises with a timer. We'll see.

Here's a duck that I was going to use for screen printing purposes, but after some thought, a) I think I'm gonna go a different direction and b) I don't think it'll work with a home set up. Ah wells. On to the next drawing.

Performance

Lets make some shirts.

Vince, Derrick and I have been planning to get our at home garage screenprint shop going for years now. Summer after summer has passed, but we've finally set a date where we can all get together and get some shirts done. I'm gonna cross my fingers and hope everything works out.

For now, check out these videos to see how its done:

On The Patio

This is just a peek at Danny's annual summertime patio BBQ extravaganza. The party was epic as usual.

Tricycle on a MEGA ramp - Travis Pastrana

Anthony Bourdain in Vancouver

Haven't seen this episode of No Reservations til now. Great look at VanCity.

15

Johnny Lee: Wii Remote hacks

Superflat First Love by Takashi Murakami for Louis Vuitton

FixedGear by MASHF

Fixed.

Vince sent me a bunch of pics and some vids to try to convince me to buy a fixed gear bike since Derrick and himself each own one now. He keeps on telling me "just buy one! come on... summertime man!" Don't get me wrong, I DO want to buy one.. I just can't right now. maybe next year. I have to admit.. his repetitive egging on type tactics are slowly breaking the shield of my wallet... albeit that shield is as thin as tracing paper.

Pecha Kucha Vancouver: Jeff Hamada

Pecha Kucha Vancouver: Jeff Hamada

Check out Jeff's presentation from the most recent Pecha Kucha.

Pecha Kucha Vancouver: Matthew Miyagawa and Vince Chan

Pecha Kucha Vancouver: Matthew Miyagawa and Vince Chan

A couple months ago my friends Vince and Matt had the opportunity to present some of their work and thoughts at this Pecha Kucha event. This event included other artists, photographers, interior decorators, architects, designers, etc.. you get the point. Each presenter had 20 slides with 20 seconds each to speak of them. Check out this vid that Bruce Sharpe of 25 Hour Day produced. Its really well done.

Ye, then and now.

First up, we've got Spaceships a Kanye CLASSIC. He directed this video 4 years ago, but elected not to release it because he wasn't satisfied with it. Man, its true what he says.. he forgets things better than we can think of.

Spaceship from kwest on Vimeo.

Next up, we've got the much anticipated Paranoid. This is the real deal, not the leaked version that everyone has peeped already.

KANYE WEST "PARANOID" feat: RIHANNA Dir: NABIL from nabil elderkin on Vimeo.

Caucasian

2nd Best

Actually a lil worse than that, but only for now.

I recently applied for an Art Director position and went through the interview process and today the Creative Manager called me in to give me feedback. I didn't get the job. However, his feedback and grading system was thorough and for the most part very positive and encouraging. I scored quite high and it surprised him. It actually stroked my ego a bit (and that's saying a bunch coming from the most insecure, unconfident, introverted douche bag designer out there.. gaaawwd this self-degradation stuff is soo unhealthy). So I can't say that I'm entirely disappointed that I didn't get the job. Yes of course, a part of me thinks I deserve that job as much as any other candidate, but most of what I feel is a sense of movement. A sense of figuring things out for myself without having someone else hold my hand. A sense of grade. Yes a result. What matters to me the most these days is that I have results. That I've been putting in work for real and that what people think of my work matters to my growth in my career. We're not playing around anymore.. crossing my fingers all the time and just hoping that things work out in the end. This sh*t is real.. and it will work out in the end... because I am going to make it work.

Tuts My Barreh

Michael Jordan 2009 Hall of Fame Announcement

A lil late on this... but its a must post.

Iron Man Vs Bruce Lee

An amazing painting indeed.

Skaters can shoot the ball.

Get Dunked on by Patrick Chewing

Skills

This French dood can draw with both his left and his right hands.. and on top of that, his drawings can move!

Street Art: Joshua Allen Harris' Inflatable Bag Monsters

Only in New York do you see this type of ish... quite amazing.

Angela & Lester's Wedding Slideshow

Angela and Lester's Wedding Slideshow from Rich Koh on Vimeo.

Finally! I've gotten a chance to touch up and re-render and post this slideshow I did last summer for Ang and Les. Yes, I know its pretty darn long.. an epic really.. for a wedding slideshow.. but heck... thats what it took to tell the AngLes story! It was a fantastic wedding and a great day.. so I definitely felt honoured to have been a small part of the celebration.  So if you've got a lil time, please check it out and let me know what you think! I'd like to start a side business for slideshows so all critiques are welcome. A website with other slideshows I've done will be coming soon!

World Champion

Its interesting to know what your friends REALLY think of you sometimes. Here's a rendering of what my bud Tony considers to be an accurate depiction of me. I'd say he's got it bang on.

Honda Ruckus

Who said riding a scooter isn't cool?! The Honda Ruckus (Zoomer in Asia/Europe) has been around since 2002 and has been gaining popularity these past few years especially with the rising gas prices. There are plenty of aftermarket parts for moding which makes this gas saver even more appealing, though I guess spending the mulla you originally wanted to save on some fat wheels and a loud exhaust does seem kind of questionable? AAAcckk.. I'm gettin old.. f*ck it, those moded Ruckus' are freakin nice! and I want one!

By the way.. the Ruckus can hold 5L of gas at one time while giving you an average of 100km/2.5L. Okay so 200km everytime you fill up which will cost you bout $5.

The New Adventures

Ahh.. the Wonder Twins.. gotta love em.

MJ approved.

Wow.. my man Michael Jordan likes the porno too!

Tracy Morgan.

Always walk like you caught clap before okay. Chicks think that cool when you caught clap before.

Kevin Garnett vs the JabbaWockeez

Sound isn't quite synced properly.. but you get the idea..

The NBA is FAAAANTASTIC

Recently, I've been blessed with a brand new entertainment system along with an HDPVR and with the PVR came a ton of channels I didn't have previously.. like the NBA in HD and Raptors TV. I gotta say, I haven't watched this much NBA action since the late 90s... and I'm hooked again!

Have you caught the NBA analyst show: NBA TV? I've been trying to catch it more often nightly... it features Ahmad Rashad, Gary Payton and Chris Webber. These guys are hilaaarious! Love watchin the highlights with these 3 commenting/shouting/blurting out random noises.. they've got great chemistry and comedy. Its super casual.. Its almost like they're hangin out at the barbershop chattin up hoops. Speaking of which, the above commercial is CLASSIC.

Ernie, Kenny, Chuck.. yah, I still like to watch.

Happy Chinese New Years!

Happy Happy New Years.. again! Chinese New Years is one of those occasions that is both strange and wonderful. Strange because it almost feels as if it doesn't belong.. that its not recognized as a STAT holiday, so its always feels out of place. Heck I'm at work right now, something that is FORBIDDEN on Chinese New Years..hehe. So it's strange and I never really "prepare" for CNY like I do for Christmas or (regular?) New Years. Its wonderful well.. mostly cuz I still receive red envelopes!! But it's also wonderful cuz every year it seems like it's a second chance to start the year once again. If the first part of the year hasn't gone quite your way just yet.. well... no worries cuz you can make your resolutions in Chinese.

The Year Ahead:
The OX year is a conservative year, one of traditions and values. This is not a year to be outrageous. A slow but steady year.

This OX year will bring stability and growth where patience and diligence pays off.

This is a year of Harvest - when we reap what we have sown. Take care of business this year, do not let things slide.

People Born in the Year of the OX:

Characteristics:
People Born in the Year of the OX are stable, strong, dutiful, reliable, tenacious, practical, industrious, determined, honest, loyal, sincere, persevering and down to earth and tolerant. They can sometimes be lonely but they form firm bonds with home and family. The OX people cherish their private lives and are not usually very adventurous. They can be loners. They know the way to succeed is by a slow, steady, sustained effort. OX people are great traditionalists, they like the familiar.

2009 Horoscopes for Year of the OX

If you were born in the year of the RAT
This year is a stable year for family life and will be a joyful year. Career wise the rats will take on more responsibilities and will feel the pressure of the extra duties. A good year of steady progress.

If you were born in the year of the TIGER:
This is the year for keeping a low profile, tigers. Because of the slow pace of the OX year, it will be a frustrating time for you. You like things to be move quicker, you will need to show restraint.

If you were born in the year of the RABBIT:
The year of the OX is well suited to the rabbit nature. The slower pace of this year will see you spending more time with friends and family. A good year to upgrade your home, or for buying or selling a house.

If you were born in the year of the Dragon:
In business and in romance your word for this year is integrity. Keep your head down and you will make steady progress this year. Established relationships will be comfortable and easy during this year of the OX. A slow but sure progress will be made.

If you were born in the year of the SNAKE:
A very good year for Snakes! The steady pace of the OX year is well suited to the snake person. Act on an opportunity - this is your year.

If you were born in the year of the HORSE:
Although you are rearing to surge ahead, this is another year of caution for the horse. Not a good year to strike out in new directions, consolidate your positions instead. On the brighter side, Love will bring comfort this year.

If you were born in the year of the SHEEP:
The Ox is the direct opposite of the sheep, therefore expect challenges in all areas this year. Keep a low profile.

If you were born in the year of the MONKEY:
This is a year of moderate progress for monkeys. Work will slow down this year allowing the monkey more personal time. It also allows for quality time with friends and family.

If you were born in the year of the ROOSTER:
Great opportunities for rooster this year. A good time to recoup losses. You will make great progress at work, reaping rewards of your labor. Emotional ties bring joy. Your prestige and reputation increase.

If you were born in the year of the DOG:
A year for dogs to keep a low profile. Put more attention into matters at home, spending quality time with loved ones. The simple pleasures will bring happiness this year.

If you were born in the year of the PIG:
A year for the pig to follow his/her instinct, laying foundations for the future. This is a bright and hopeful year for the pig. Do not take unnecessary risks though.

New Year, New Reality

It's already five days deep into the new year and I'm still feeling hungover from all the holiday "cheer." Call me a grinch if you will, but the holidays are feeling less and less like the holidays! They're getting more and more jam packed with events, things to do, people to shop for... and less and less time to myself.  The last three to four weeks are a BLURR to me... the memories play back in fast forward in my head.

Please please don't misunderstand... I do these things and go to these places because I want to and not because I feel obligated... of course I love my friends and family. Yes, I know.. the holiday season is a time for giving. So now that I've given myself to the holidays and taken a break from my own reality, January has given me a huge SLAP in the face. A slap of reality.

The backhand comes in the form of a huge Visa bill, a large number on the weigh scale and most importantly a pending decision about the future of my career. The weight that I've packed on does concern me.. but i know that basketball and volleyball will work itself back into my weekly routine soon enough. Now, the reality of waking up unemployed has undoubtedly hit me the hardest.. the uncertainty of when my next pay check will be has never been comfortable (I don't know how all you freelancers do it!).

As I sit here at my desk typing away, I feel my shoulders tighten up.. the stress is building. 2009 is going to be a big year for me. 2009 is going to be the year that 2008 was supposed to be! Some big decisions are going to be made... and there's going to be a ton of work to go along with those decisions... all of it will amounting to catapulting my life into adulthood. NO that doesn't mean I'm still a virgin stoopid! What it means is that I have to work twice as hard this year.. to make up for all the procrastination. Life around me has certainly moved on while I feel like I have stood still (in my career) for the past five years. Time to get a move on Rich and get to that next Rich Day.