The Parker Brand Way

Lucky. Thankful. Humble. Proud.

2011-11-04T23:12:00.001-05:00

Michelle and I were going through our client and vendor list—prepping addresses to send Christmas cards and goodies—and we realized that local logo design has been a significant percentage of our workflow this year. While we provide many other creative services, we averaged two to three logos a month. That's quite a lot for such a small team, especially in a market the size of ours. The Parker Brand may be small, but we feel like we pack a punch that's not indicative of our size.

Michelle and I feel very blessed to have helped our clients develop new marks, or update old ones. The real joy has come in the collaboration with our clients. We take pride in the fact that we listen to our clients and put the input they give us to good use. We never blindly go off in a direction without first getting a strong idea of what they want their mark to accomplish. Of course, there's the added bonus of growing relationships with some really great people.

Many times our first set of designs have been approved with very few edit requests. I'll never get used to the way it feels to get that message saying "approved" after only one or two proofs. It's a feeling of pride, to be sure, but it's also humbling. When it really settles on you that your clients trust you... well, that's a powerful thing.

We thought it would be nice to collect the logos we've designed this year in one place. When I see this collection of logos I feel thankful for all of the clients that have hired Parker Brand this year. They've made it possible for us to continue doing the job that we love in the southwest Louisiana community we call home. The clients that trust us keep Michelle and I motivated. Their confidence in our brand pushes us to work harder and get better at what we do.

If we're currently working with you, or have worked with you this year, please accept our sincere thanks. If you have a business, organization, club, or manage an event in southwest Louisiana and you haven't worked with our brand, don't hesitate to contact us. We understand the challenges that small businesses face, and we're here to use our combined creative skills to help those in our area build stronger brands. That's our prime directive. That's all we do. Who knows? If you have a small business in southwest Louisiana maybe we can help you too, and if we can't then we'll help you find someone who can.

-Oran Parker

Posted via email from The Parker Brand Picture Post!

We're not saying it right.

2011-04-17T08:37:00.002-05:00

via youtube.com

This video really touched me, and reminded me how subtle changes to a message can affect our perception and reaction to a thing.

In advertising communication it's a perfect mix of words and images that draws the viewer in, hopefully generating a positive response. It sounds like it would be very simple, but it can often be quite a challenge. We sometimes think we're saying what we need to say, or showing what we need to show, but then the response we get is either non-existent, or the wrong response altogether.

We recently had this very experience with a small ad campaign, and have since changed our language and images to generate a more desirable result. The jury is still out on whether the changes were more, or less affective.

This really cuts to the heart of something that drives the Parker Brand. It's the willingness to shift your thinking when you know that something you've created isn't working. We don't care how creative it is, or how nice it looks. If the phone isn't ringing then we need to go back to the drawing board.

When you devote weeks to a concept, graphics, and copy there is a tendency to get invested in them. Who wouldn't? They are your ideas made tangible. Devotion to an idea or direction at all cost, simply because it was yours, is the wrong way to play. Blind faith has no case when standing next to tangible results.

Listen. Watch. Cultivate an awareness of the effect your communications are having. More than anything, be flexible. It's nice to find a direction, but there's no need to follow it blindly down a dead end road.

-Oran

Posted via email from The Parker Brand Picture Post!

No, you can't have my "Creepy Classics" finger puppets!

2011-02-22T19:22:00.002-06:00

Dollar Tree. What a fantastic repository of junk... for a dollar.

I usually go there to get things that I don't mind messing up... paper plates, paper towels, off-brand window cleaner. Stuff like that.

I never expect to find anything cool... and I never, ever, ever expect to find anything super-atomic cool.

But I did.

In fact, I found 6 somethings... and they are very, very cool.

Meet my new "Creepy Classics" finger puppets!

Super-atomic awesome? You betcha! They are totally craptastic, made in China, plastic junk based on monster movie classics like Dracula, Curse of the Werewolf, Frankenstein, King Kong, Godzilla, and the Mummy.

I can't imagine any kid having much fun with these crummy little guys, but damn if I don't dig 'em!

For cheapo Dollar Tree junk I think they have a little special something that makes them fit right in on the Parker Brand desk.

What's really awesome is that they're all carrying these little billy-clubs (at least I hope that's what they are).

Now, why the hell these movie-monsters need billy-clubs is beyond my ability to comprehend, so I won't even try.

Just accept the strange.

Accept it.

The packaging was pretty ho-hum, covered in dust (I don't imagine they're flying off the shelf), but what I really dig is that they each came with a little trading card of each monster's classic movie poster. It's actually kind of cool (again... just accept this as fact).

Anyway... I needed a break today, and the $6 bucks I spent at Dollar Tree on these terrible treats provided me with that, so I figured someone out there might appreciate them too.

And if you ever come by my office don't try to swipe 'em. I'll be watching... with a billy club. ;)

-Oran

See and download the full gallery on posterous

Posted via email from The Parker Brand Picture Post!

Way to go, Brainiac!

2011-02-06T18:28:00.003-06:00

It's been a while since I've picked up a pencil, or a pen, or a marker. To be honest, it was probably last October. It's been too long.

My son asked if we could sit down and sketch for a bit, so I broke out my sketch kit, and some cheap water colors to whip up this quick Brainiac sketch.

I've got one word... rusty.

I really need to get back into to doing a sketch for fun at least once a week, because this just won't fly.

That's the way it goes. When you lay something down for too long it's easy to get cold. You have to practice to get better.

Still, I think I'll start using the watercolors and the Pentel water brush more.

It's fun and real easy to bang out some color.

I've definitely got to get back in the sketch groove.

Posted via email from The Parker Brand Picture Post!

Think invasive advertising couldn't get worse? Urine for a surprise!

2011-02-01T10:03:00.002-06:00

via adweek.blogs.com

I've always considered myself to be a hard sell. I like to think that advertising doesn't work so well on me. In fact, I usually look at the campaigns I work on from this perspective, constantly asking, "why the hell should anyone care about this?" I find it helps me to step back and think just a bit harder about the concept we're proposing.

See, I think a lifetime is the most precious thing we've got... because it's 100% limited, and that's what advertising does. It asks for your attention, and your time... your finite resources. Once you've given those away, the sender hopes you'll retain the information, or act on it.

Don't get me wrong. I still strongly think that advertising can be a good thing. It can inform us about things that could better our lives. It can motivate us to change. It can entertain us. It can encourage us to act. Advertising drives the pulling and hauling of our society, and without it our economy would come to a screeching halt, becoming fully dependent on word-of-mouth marketing (I feel like I'm selling myself here).

Still, more often that not, advertising is an invasion of our privacy, a cluttering of the landscape, reminding us to dig deep into our pockets and spend our earnings on a service, or thing. That's the way things work, and I can live with it, for the most part. In fact, this is the same message I give my clients. It is what it is and if you can't generate a successful word-of-mouth business, then you need advertising to get your message out to the public.

Every now and then a new form of advertising comes along that just grates on me, reminding me of everything that I loathe about our industry, hence these new restroom mirror displays. As if advertising's worst wasn't invasive enough, we are now destined to be exposed to more of in the worst place imaginable.

Meet the restroom mirror digital display.

Look, mens' restrooms aren't places that I tend to linger, and I think most men feel the same way. Public restrooms are usually pretty filthy, disgusting places, with the fine odor of mint and human waste floating like a cloud. I get in, wash up, and try to get out using elbows and knees, taking as few breaths as humanly possible.

News flash! These displays won't work on me... at all.

I think that really good advertising plays on all of the human senses, leaving subtle triggers in the human mind. This is basic psychology. You see, smell, touch, or hear something enough times in relationship to a message then you will eventually begin to retain and recall that information.

Simple stuff. Branding 101.

I guess my question is do you want your brand associated with the your service and message, or restimulating the fine scent of fresh pee and urinal cakes?

Hey... I think I just found my next sales pitch. -Oran

Posted via email from The Parker Brand Picture Post!

Play it for your kids. Play it for you. "What I Am"

2011-01-21T06:05:00.003-06:00

via skepchick.org

I stumbled on this while reading one of my favorite blogs, "Skepchick." The post simply stated, "This has been stuck in my head." When you hear that how could you not press play?

So, I did.

Then, I did again.

Then I played it for my kids.

You know, sometimes as adults we tend to get moving in such a hurry that we don't really stop to contemplate who we are, where we're going, or more importantly who we want to be, and where we want to go.

See, just because you're going somewhere doesn't mean it's the right place, and who you are may not be the best you. Sometimes you have to stop, look deep inside yourself, find that center and say, "Hey! Wait a minute... this just isn't who I really am. I'm going to do something different and change things."

I believe it's a noble path, the path of self discovery. When you figure out who you truly are then you can share that with your colleagues, partners, friends, and family. Change can be infectious and motivate others to do the same.

I wrote this down the other day, and it seems to apply here... "You are the coal. You are the shoveler. You are the engine. BE SELF PROPELLED."

You are the engine. You are the change. Figure out who you are, then do something different. -Oran

Posted via email from The Parker Brand Picture Post!

Run for cover! Here comes a gut bomb! (courtesy of Starbucks)

2011-01-20T06:36:00.002-06:00

via thedailywh.at

So, Starbucks has announced its new size, the Trenta (which sounds like a pharmaceutical company to me). The Trenta will be a 31 ounce mega-gulp of Starbucks goodness.

I drink a lot of coffee during the day, but I don't think I want to have it all in one sit down. Still, I'm sure the Trenta will be a hit.

What I really want to talk about is the info-graphic showing the various sizes of their drink as compared to a soda can,... and a human stomach???

Is it just me, or is this kind of gross? This doesn't make me want to try a Trenta sized Starbucks drink. It makes me think of the episode of Mythbusters where they test pop-rocks and soda in a pig stomach. It makes me feel kind of gross and I imagine that every time I see a Trenta sized drink I'll think of this graphic.

The thought of a bloated, sloshy stomach doesn't make me think "tasty treat."

What say you? -Oran

Posted via email from The Parker Brand Picture Post!

The sound of one print ad clapping

2011-01-20T05:57:00.002-06:00

via creativecriminals.com

Sometimes creativity gets in the way of a good idea. I talk about this a lot, and I'm sure most everyone is pretty sick of hearing me say it. Still, I see creativity, the thing that 's supposed to be our greatest asset in the ad industry, step right up and get in the way of the message. Happens all the time.

Take this EDF ad, for instance. Does is make me stop? Yep. Does it make me curious? Yep. Do I get it at first glance? Nope. When I do get it do I take action? In my case, nope. I wouldn't.

The ad is meant to applaud the athletes of Team EDF for their 2010 performance. Basically, you are supposed to close and reopen, then do it again several times to simulate clapping hands.

I don't know about you, but I might feel a little weird using my own to hands to slap these two pages together as if they were clapping, especially when I have two perfectly good hands of my own.

Of course, what's weirder? Clapping two print ads together, or using your own hands to clap while looking at the ad.

I'd be really curious to hear your thoughts on this one. -Oran

Posted via email from The Parker Brand Picture Post!

Crunch into a Biz Bite! "Skipping Brimstones"

2011-01-19T15:32:00.000-06:00

Yesterday I had a bit of time to kill before a meeting and I decided to stop by the Henning House right next to the historic Brimstone Museum) in Sulphur, a fine art gallery directed by my good friend Thom Trahan, assisted by the Creative Director Eric Manual.

Now, I live in Sulphur, and you would think that being interested in art and creativity, I would stop in more often. Sadly, like most of us, I'm always going full-speed during the day, seldom making that conscious effort to stop and enjoy the things around me. Yesterday was one of those days where I decided to not skip over the opportunity to drop in and visit my friends at the Brimstone, and I'm really glad I did. READ MORE >>

Parker Brand Biz Bites

features small businesses and organizations

that are doing something extra creative,

as well as a variety business tips

from small market professionals.

Crack. Crunch. Read. Repeat! >>>

Chimp My Ride!

2011-01-19T11:55:00.000-06:00

I don't care which e-news software you're currently using. I don't care how good it is at what it does. Do you know why? Because Mail Chimp is the top banana in my book.

It's not only very powerful and user friendly, but it's a treat to log in to. From their talking chimp, to their various landing pages, Mail Chimp obviously gives a damn about how you feel when you visit their site, and they have a ton of creative fun with it.

Check out their current log-in page, all snazzed up "Pooh Corner" style. What else do I need to say?

I know, I know; looks aren't everything. Mail Chimp has more than looks going for it. It has guts. And bolts. And nuts. It would take a lot for me to switch platforms, to be quite honest.

What I love about companies like Mail Chimp is that they're constantly adding features, asking for feedback, and coming up with new ways to help you have a better user experience.

If you're not married to your current e-news platform (and even if you are) I'd would say you should at least take Mail Chimp for a swing. It won't cost you anything but your time, and they've made sure even that investment will be enjoyable. Even if you're not interested you should at least get an account (free) and see what I'm talking about.

I guess you'd say I'm kind of bananas over it (sorry... I couldn't resist). -Oran

Just how happy are you? "Mappiness" can help you find the answer.

2011-01-19T11:14:00.003-06:00

via mappiness.org.uk

I love social media, but not so much for the media part. I don't take part in every feature offered by every platform, especially geo-tagging.

I don't have any real problems with it, and I suppose I could put it to good use if I had an event to promote. Foursquare, and Facebook geo-tagging features really don't do anything for me on a day to day basis.
Foursquare seems more like a game, and it's really a game that I don't have any fun playing. And Facebook places opens up some weird doors because unless you're on top of your privacy settings, just about anyone can tag you at a particular location without your authorization.

Then, I discovered Mappiness.

Now, Mappiness isn't really a social networking site, but what it does do it ask you personal questions at different points throughout the day in regards to how you're feeling. You can respond as often as you like, and the more you respond (and answer truthfully), the more you start to see which situations in life bring you the most peace, joy, and comfort. Basically, it gauges your happiness.

I'm always open to giving something a try, but most of these things don't last long with me. Still, I've really been enjoying Mappiness. While it doesn't really allow me to connect with other folks, it does let me get a quick snapshot of how I'm feeling.

The app is nice and simple, with a really clean interface, and most of the questions they've provided cover just about any situation I might find myself in. Right now the app covers the UK as its research area, so the geo-tagging feature is moot. Still, the app does ask you where you're at and uses that data to create its various charts and graphs.

What makes this app ultimately work for me is that it's not heavy. It's easy to set up, and easy to use. Also, it's being used for a positive purpose, and helps remind me to constantly ask, "Oran, are you happy?"
-Oran

GET "MAPPINESS" >> http://www.mappiness.org.uk/

Posted via email from The Parker Brand Picture Post!

100 Logos. 100 Minutes. 100% Pure Awesome! (A Behance Gallery)

2011-01-18T13:04:00.000-06:00

A few years ago I was looking for an online gallery platform that I could use as a catch-all as completed creative design & branding projects. What I stumbled on has become one of the greatest repositories of creativity anywhere on the internet―Behance.

Recently I came across the "100 Logos in 100 Days" project and really enjoyed what I saw. If you love logos like I do, then stop by and treat your eyes.

Basically, the designer challenged themselves to create 100 unique (and often funny) logos over a period of 100 days. If that weren't challenging enough, they set a time limit of 100 minutes per project. Wow.

I definitely think some are better than others, but they're all a lot of fun to look at and find the creative twist.

So, take 100 seconds (maybe more) and swing by this very creative Behance gallery (and I wouldn't mind if you stopped by mine as well). -Oran

Planning a Kid's Birthday: A Few Advertising Basics

2011-01-18T05:52:00.002-06:00

via adweek.blogs.com

This video has been making the rounds online and I've got to say that I really, really love it.

First off, it's pretty funny, especially if you work in the advertising industry. But, beyond the obvious humor, what I love most is that it really does show you that most of what we do in advertising can be pretty standard. There are rules that seem to apply to planning and promoting any event, large or small.

I think what really gets me the most that there are businesses that put less effort into their marketing and promotions than they would for a child's birthday.

I'm not suggesting that we all go out and offer free pony rides (or whatever the relevant equivalent for your business might be), but I am suggesting that there are some basic actions that can be taken to get the word out (many are very inexpensive) and keep the message moving.

Sure it takes planning,... and money,... and time, but if those kids are any kind of reflection of what an engaged, happy customer might look like, then I'd say it might be worth the effort.

Watch the video. Take notes. Take action.

-Oran

Posted via email from The Parker Brand Picture Post!

A Brand New Day

2011-01-17T06:07:00.004-06:00

via presentationzen.com

I wasn't familiar with Brene Brown until I came across her TED presentation over at Gar Reynolds "Presentation Zen" feed. I didn't watch the presentation initially, but instead focused in on the title of her book, "The Gifts of Imperfection: Let Go of Who You Think You're Supposed to Be and Embrace Who You Are." Stop. Now, read that again.

I got up this morning with the intention of writing a post about letting go, reinventing, and starting over, and as I scanned through my favorite feeds this came back to the top.

You see, today is the first official day of a new direction for my personal brand, the Parker Brand. For years my personal brand has been walking along side me like a shadow, always pointing the way, while attracting the right individuals into my life. It wasn't a personal brand in a marketing sense. It was a personal brand that I recognized to be the "stuff" that makes me who I truly am, serving as a signpost for me, a guide that reminds me to be mindful, and always cultivate a deep awareness of things.

Some of that awareness has to do with advertising, marketing, illustration, and design, so naturally most would assume that the Parker Brand was just another commercialized brand trying to make its way. That would be the wrong assumption.

I've tried to protect the Parker Brand from that world for a long time, often stating clearly that it wasn't a business, but rather a creative way of doing things. Still, it's hard to keep a the true nature of a thing buried for very long.

Today is a brand new day for the Parker Brand. Today my personal brand does exactly as Brene Brown says to do, "let go of who you think you're supposed to be and embrace who you are."

As I sit here looking at the little mark that those around me know as the Parker Brand I can almost hear it speaking, "It's a brand new day, buddy. Let's do something different. What do ya say?"

I say, "Let's."

Posted via email from The Parker Brand Picture Post!

"Give me a sign!" Props to a local craftsman

2011-01-16T13:02:00.002-06:00

via facebook.com

Last year I had the pleasure to help the Oncology & Hematology Institute of Southwest Louisiana create a new logo to coincide with their move to a new location in the Lake Charles, Louisiana area (you may remember the post).

Working on this logo was a rewarding experience all around, and the Institute's reaction was very positive. The logo has been used online, in outdoor advertising, and on digital outdoor banners, but it was recently highlighted in it's use on the Institute's new sign, crafted by Lake Charles sign-craftsman, Mark Hebert.
Mark is one of the few, if not only, remaining sign-craftsmen in Southwest Louisiana. I have a unique appreciation for his work since I myself earned my early advertising stripes in the sign industry, although it was of the more computerized and commercialized variety.

Mark has been working in the sign business for a long time, stepping out for a while, but now apparently working at full speed. What Mark does is special in that it takes years to learn and hone. His sort of ability isn't just an acquired skill; it's a natural born talent that Mark obviously worked hard to refine.

I've had the pleasure to meet and discuss the sign-craft with Mark. He is a gracious and knowledgeable individual, and I'm hoping to see more of my design works brought to life by his hand in the future.

If you need a sign in a hurry, go to a commercial shop; that's what they are good at, and there is definitely a need for that in this "fast paced and highly competitive market." However, if you need a sign that stands above the rest, specifically crafted to suit your business, a sign with character and individuality, you should definitely contact Mark Hebert of Hebert Signs, a true master of his craft.

Don't believe me? Take some time to browse around Mark's Facebook gallery and see for yourself.

VIEW MARK'S GALLERY HERE >> http://www.facebook.com/album.php?aid=10273&id=100000466031458

Posted via email from The Parker Brand Picture Post!

Creative Marketer, Or Glory Seeker? Who Do You Want Working On Your Advertising?

2011-01-15T18:43:00.002-06:00

via tomfishburne.com

I don't participate in advertising contests. I haven't in a couple of years. The ad-toon by Tom Fishburne reminded me that our own ADDY Awards are right around the corner, even more so because our local ADDYs theme this year happens to play on the "Mad Men" motif.

I'm a bit outspoken about the ADDY Awards, and creative award contests in general, but don't mistake my stance as sour grapes; I've heard my name called out many times in association with an award, and have seen it adorn the ADDY star. I've had my time in the sun, and it felt pretty good. Still, I've become disenchanted by the whole process, and I'll try to explain why.

Over the years, I've worked with several talented creative teams, and all have participated in our local ADDY Awards contest. As a team member, I happily followed along and participated with everyone else. It was expected. It was just what we did.

The ADDYs, as an event, can be a lot of fun. It's great to get together with your local advertising peers, and celebrate another year in the industry. There's the drinking, the dancing, the laughing, the entertainment, and the usually great food. And of course, there's always the chatter about who brought home the ADDY glass, who felt like they were robbed, and the curses of those dissatisfied with the judging (unless it happens to lean in their favor).

I participated heavily in the ADDY process for several years, working behind the scenes, acting as ADDY co-chair, eventually moving into the role of ADDY chair for our local organization. What I learned was that while the ADDYs are focused on creativity in advertising, it ultimately comes down to how much money the contest is moving through the organization. I also learned that while the ADDYs do attempt to celebrate creativity, they do nothing to highlight whether a campaign was truly effective, and as a side-effect they foster a sense of accomplishment in the ADDY recipients that is regardless of the advertising's true impact.

And then, there are the ad folk out there that move into each advertising project with winning an ADDY in mind, often sacrificing effectiveness and reach for obscure wit and humor. The participants who've been at the ADDY game for a while enter their creative works with a strategy to win, often retooling creative projects year after year, knowing that they will be exposing the works to new judges with each ADDY cycle. Seeing this led me to wonder how much one can truly get from hearing their name, or receiving the ADDY glass, if the methods by which the accolade was received are empty?

My problem isn't really with the ADDYs, I suppose, but rather with what drives many of the participants. Tom Fishburne's ad-toon really captures this problem in its simplicity. If adding ADDY glass to your case is what drives you then you may be cheating your client out of a solid creative strategy. Creativity, at least in a marketing sense, should always be tempered by strategy. A strong strategy can bridle creativity in a good way, making it sharp and pointed, leading it towards measurable results. But I suppose that's what advertising is to me; strategy driven creative communications with measurable results.

But I digress. I'm picking on the ADDY awards because they are the creative contest I'm familiar with. In the ADDY's defense, it is a creativity based contest, which is good and fine. It never claims to be more than that. There is no hidden agenda, and there are a lot of talented creative people who participate in the process, many that I consider my friends (although, I may be on the brown list after this post).

My problem is not with the award itself, but rather the desire to win that it instills, a desire which can turn a creative marketer into just another glory seeker.

Which leads me to ask, which one do you want working on your advertising?

Posted via email from The Parker Brand Picture Post!

Blamestorm VS Brainstorm

2011-01-15T17:02:00.005-06:00

via tomfishburne.com

I'm always looking for an update over at Tom Fishburne's blog, "Marketoonist." They're usually spot on, bringing to light Tom's thoughts on various advertising subjects that many hard-boiled ad-suits would find too taboo to actually say out loud.

His recent ad-toon coins the phrase "blamestorming," and while my take on the phrase may have a bit different spin, I believe Tom is revealing a very real brainstorming problem, where creative teams, bloated with multiple swollen egos, devolve into finger pointing pros who miss the point of why they gathered.

In my experience, a brainstorm morphs into a blamestorm when a creative team meets under the guise of getting something creative done, but instead uses the time to criticize or poo-poo on any ideas that may come out during the jam session. Do any research on brainstorming and you'll hear the popular phrase, "there is no such thing as a bad idea." Everyone likes to say that, but as Tom Fishburne points out, too often it's more like, "remember, there's no such thing as unconstructive criticism."

I've sat through many of these blamestorms over the years. I've always wondered if the folks running the creative meeting had any sense of what a brainstorming session was at all.

A brainstorming session should be a place where ideas are born and captured, regardless of value or correctness. Then, after the ideas are all out on the table, every rabbit hole having been explored, the ideas are sifted through, then paired with one another, allowing something new and great to be born. Working in this way allows a true team to form, every member seeing their input play an important part in the final direction.

When's the last time you've worked on team where the brainstorming session truly created something wonderful and new? Was it painful getting there? In my opinion, it should never be a challenge of egos in a brainstorming session, with each individual trying to out create the other, or prove that they're the saltier marketer.

A brainstorming session should always be about the client and their project, the goal being to determine the best direction, and hopefully that direction will be fueled by the collective creativity of everyone involved, the client included.

Posted via email from The Parker Brand Picture Post!

Best Creative Purchase of 2010: The iPad and My Top Apps for Creativity, Productivity, Communication and Entertainment

2010-12-31T13:03:00.002-06:00

When the iPad came out this year I was pretty much underwhelmed. At first glance, I took it to be just a really large version of the iPhone. I honestly couldn't see how this device would fit into my personal or professional life.

Get in Line
I saw a lot of my buddies in my "Parker's Pals" Twitter list shouting it's praises. I trust this particular feed with a lot, but in this case I was still a hold out. I hadn't actually had the opportunity to use one, or even see one in person for that matter. I'm also not a jump-on-the-band-wagon type. When I see folks getting in line, I usually take steps to purposely avoid it until I've had time to make an educated decision. I'm also not really what I would call a hardcore Mac or Apple loyalist. I like many of their products, but I don't get stars in my eyes when I see an Apple logo, or one of their super slick ads.

Trust the Techies
Shortly after the iPad was released, my friends over at E2E Tech had a post on the subject at their Tech Attack blog. "Once you see one in person, you begin thinking of how the iPad will work in your life," they said. I trust these folks when it comes to tech tips and gadgetry. I still couldn't see it, but I had a hunch that these simple words by our local techies were going to be spot on.

iPad Envy
So, about 6 weeks ago a few things happened that accelerated my decision to add the iPad to my creative arsenal. I had a meeting with a client one afternoon at a local coffee shop where we were to discuss several outdoor designs I had submitted for a new campaign. I pulled out my notebook to begin taking down his comments, and started to pull out my laptop to bring up the proofs. Before I could unlatch my case, my client pulled out his iPad and brought the proofs up on the screen. Being in the business of visual communication, this simple act immediately impressed me. I looked at my notebook and unopened laptop case and immediately felt outdated. Not only that, but I saw the potential for this device as an incredibly convenient way to acquire and share creative content. Still, I didn't take the plunge.

A few days later, while meeting with a new client whose primary business offering was built around iPad integration, I again realized this device was replacing many of the tools I typically carried around to meetings, adding the bonus of access to information and software that I would normally have to wait to use back at my office. I was mentally sold, but still no purchase.

A Child is Born
My wife and I were expecting a son in November, and I knew that I would be out of the office for several weeks. I wanted to have access to my files, email, and the internet, but I didn't want to lug around my laptop. I first thought that my iPhone would suffice, and to be honest it probably would have, but the images of my clients using the device combined with my imagination created a strong dose of iPad envy. I made the purchase and I'm really glad I did.

I immediately put the device to use at the hospital during our stay with my son. There were complication during the pregnancy and my son was immediately rushed into the infant ICU. My wife, who had worked hard all day long, wasn't able to see her new baby. While it was necessary, it was definitely heart breaking. Eventually he was stabilized and they allowed me to go into the ICU to see him. I was able to take photos and video from my iPhone and share them with my wife back in her room, on the iPad via DropBox. It's weird to think about it now, but the first time my wife was able to see her our Son was through video on this device. We sat in the room together, tired but happy that we were able to see our new addition, even if it was only through the iPad screen.

When we finally returned home I made a decision to further explore how I could but the iPad and it's apps to use in creative, productive and entertaining ways. Every professional has their set of favorite iPad apps. I'm still experimenting with my magic mix, but so far the iPad has replaced my laptop and traditional notebook in many ways. It's allowed me to be truly mobile, and it's puts my projects, tools and files right in front of me whenever I need them.

The Parker Brand's "Magic Mix" of iPad Apps
for Creativity, Productivity, Communication and Entertainment

1) DropBox

Need I say more about this app? I adopted DropBox when it was in Beta, and I've been singing it's praises ever since. I recently upgraded to the 50g version, and I'm glad I did. I can now access all of my projects, proposals, invoices, and proofs from any of my workstations, or mobile devices. It give me instant access to my press-ready files, which can be rather large, allowing me to send instant download links to my clients. Need to make quick changes to a proof? Make them on your work station then head out for the meeting. Your updated proof will be in your hands, ready for presentation, before you turn the key in your car. These are just a few of the ways I'm using this fantastic cloud service. It's at the top of my list because it's definitely a service that I'd miss if it went away tomorrow.

Get DropBox >>

2) 2Do

I've always had a knack for looking into a project and breaking it down into it's easy pieces. I've been using Google Cal to do this for a number of years, creating an elaborate series of calendars to keep track of the various stages of my projects. I searched for several iPad apps that I could use to accomplish the same thing in a more streamlined way. 2Do does just that. It allows me to sync and share my projects across all of my devices and workstations via Toodledo and Google Cal, which I'm already using anyway. Projects, or tasks are organized as lists, tasks, or projects and can all be placed in custom categories. You can get as detailed as you want with this app, attaching notes or images to each task, or sub-task. It's the first thing I check before I start my work day, and I've seen my level of productivity increase since I've integrated it into my workflow.

Get 2Do >>

3) Evernote

I started fooling around with Evernote when it was first released for the iPhone, using it more for personal notes and info. It was a great way to capture quick information from the web via screenshot, instantly putting images, notes and research within reach. Now I use it to record audio from creative meetings, append notes to those meetings, attach images, and then review them when it's time to get a project organized. This app is like that catch-all drawer in the kitchen. You'll find the thing you need, but you have to organize regularly to get the most use out of it.

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4) Noteshelf

Noteshelf has replaced my paper notebooks 100%. I really wasn't sure if this was going to be possible, but the more I use it the more comfortable I get with the app. It provides you with a variety of paper styles and notebook formats to suit almost any purpose. I'm able to pull proofs directly from DropBox to my iPad, then upload them to my notes page. I can make quick notes about edits the client may have, then send that particular page directly to DropBox or Evernote, making it instantly available at my workstation. You're able to search individual pages within each notebook, and create as many notebooks as you like. I prefer to keep separate notebooks for each client; some for individual projects. If I had tried to accomplish that with a traditional notebook system I'd fill many, many shelves and waste a ton of paper. BONUS! Wrist protection. I'm going to be much more aware of this offering when I purchase writing or drawing apps in the future.

Get Noteshelf >>

5) Sketchbook Pro

This one was a no brainer for me. I watched several videos and leaned on the expertise of the creative folks in my Twitter lists. Sketchbook Pro was the most recommended app in it's category. I believe that to get the most use out of this app you'll definitely need to purchase a stylus, but that's a good tool to have on hand anyway. I can't make a recommendation on various types, but I like the stylus I purchased. This app has it all; brushes, colors, layers, and total control over them all. It's worked out great for doing thumbnail sketches, or just illustration in general. The soft tip of the iPad stylus takes some getting used to, but once you get a feel for it the control over the app starts to emerge. This is another app that has really freed up space in my mail bag. Notebooks? Gone. Sketchbooks? Gone... at least when I'm going into a meeting.

Get Sketchbook Pro >>

6) Notemaster

I adopted Google Docs several years ago as my primary word processing tool. It was at that point I realized that mobility would be key for me in the years to come. I adopted Notemaster on the iPhone as my primary copy writing app because it allowed me to sync and edit my already healthy Google Docs files. Recently Notemaster released it's iPad version and it includes all of the features I loved on the iPhone app. This app is great for writing copy when I'm on the move, and making edits to existing copy in my Google cloud as well. It has a clean and responsive interface and does exactly what it says it will do. Recently, Google added document editing in Docs on mobile devices. I've given it a try, but I still prefer using the Notemaster app for the heavy hitting and I'm not sure that's going to change any time soon.

Get Notemaster >>

7) Palettes Pro

Palettes Pro is one of the most used apps in my creative list. It's come in handy more times than I can count. It's great for color-storming, which always helps me get a creative project moving. Many times I'll meet with a client and we'll begin discussing color right there. If I can find a photo reference then we can drop that image into Palettes Pro and begin forming a palette on the spot. Even better, you can email the palettes to yourself, or your client, in a variety of formats which are ready to use with the Adobe Creative Suite.

Get Palettes Pro >>

8) Adobe Ideas

And speaking of Adobe, what a great little app we have in Adobe Ideas! This was one of the first creative apps that was recommended to me when I got my iPad, and I've thoroughly enjoyed using it. It has a very clean interface, reminiscent of the Adobe Air apps. It combines many of the features that you find in Noteshelf and Palette's Pro, which is great when you don't have time to jump between apps. It offers layers, various pen sizes, and a great smoothing feature which keeps your doodles, notes, and specs nice and clean. I recently had a discussion with many of the individuals behind Adobe Ideas and I believe that we're about to see some great new things emerge. This app has a great future, so I'd advise getting comfortable with it now.

Get Adobe Ideas >>

9) Logo Bible

When you're in the business of logos, why not have a logo reference on hand at all times? This isn't an overly complicated app. It's simply a catalogue of great, searchable logos. Just type in a key word and get instant access to a variety of quality images to stimulate your thinking. See what others have done, avoid duplication, send a few of them to your clients to get them thinking. The logos in the catalogue are updated from time to time, so you always have an influx of fresh, new images to view. I really dig flipping through when I have some down time. It gives me those "why didn't I think of that" moments.

Get Logo Bible >>

10) MultiG

Here I go, singing more Google praises. I'm a Google Apps user, and that includes my email. I switched over to Google when Gmail first came out, and upgraded to Google Apps a couple of years ago. While I love the mail interface on the iPad, there are times when I need to access my personal Gmail and my Google Apps account through the standard Google interface. MultiG lets me get right into both accounts, utilizing the Google interface that I'm used to using, all from one app. Doesn't sound like much, but it beats opening up the Google app, or visiting the web. I tap, and I'm there, searching through my mail with the same ease and search power I'm accustomed to.

Get MultiG >>

11) Boxcar

Boxcar is another app that I use on both the iPhone and iPad. It's an app with a really simple purpose; to alert you when people are trying to communicate with you. This is my primary alert service, customized to let me know when I get email, Google Voice messages, Twitter mentions and direct messages, or Facebook message and comments. You can set your level of involvement at what ever level you like, and many times I can respond to a message right from the app itself. I'd say I'm pretty heavily involved in the online social networks I participate in. Boxcar allows me to keep an ear out for activity in my feed without having to keep my eyes glued to the screen.

Get Boxcar >>

12) Deliveries

Deliveries is a slick and simple app that allows you keep track of packages and orders that you may be receiving, or that you have shipped. Simple, simple, simple. Just plug in your tracking numbers and shipping service and your done. The app will alert you when your packages have arrived, or you can see the distance between the package and it's destination. It syncs across devices, so this is a great app to have on the iPhone as well. Indispensable if you have products that have been shipped out and are on deadline. The more you know, and all that jazz.

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13) Expensify

If you're in business and you're mobile then you know how important it is to keep track of every dime you spend. Expensify makes this easy, and helps cut down on that shoebox full of expense receipts. This is an app that works best when paired with your iPhone. Taking a client to lunch? Just snap a shot of the receipt with your iPhone and ditch the paper. Add the receipt and tag the expense to the proper client or project, then you're done. When you're ready just output your expense report. Your book keeper will love you, and you'll start to discover the small cash leaks that your business might have.

Get Expensify >>

14) TDF Tracker

I make my living by quantifying the hours worked on creative projects, then billing for those hours. Whether I'm working on a flat contract for a set number of hours, or if the project is open ended, I need to be able to record and account for my time spent. After downloading many, many apps that claimed to be the best at this sort of thing, I finally discovered TDF Tracker. I'll put my neck out and say that if you need to track your time, then export that time into a comprehensive report, then don't waste your time time with other apps. This is the one. I wasted a lot of money on apps that just didn't do it in a way that was efficient. I love the ease of use that this app provides, and my clients love the reports. BONUS! You can use TDF Tracker to keep track of your mileage as well. A great bonus if you're a mobile madman.

Get TDF Tracker >>

15) Mobile Mouse

Mobile Mouse is tops, especially if you need to control your computer from across the room. Mobile Mouse is great if you're doing a workshop, or presentation and need to access your laptop, or workstation. I've used this to give tutorials, presentations, or just for entertainment purposes. Mobile Mouse does it's job well, and it's another app that I'd miss if it just went away.

Get Mobile Mouse >>

16) Reeder

Another great Google product I use is Google Reader. I'm a pretty heavy blog reader. I get a lot out of it, and I've got all of my feeds organized to suit my needs. I tried several apps on my iPhone that claimed to handle my Google Reader account better than Google, but none has been better than Reeder. When I got my iPad, Reeder was one of the first apps I downloaded. Before my iPad, I used to sit in the kitchen at my computer with a cup of coffee every morning. With Reeder I can sit outside on the porch, or take my show on the road. Sure, I could just visit Google's mobile version of Google Reader, but Reeder actually is much easier on the eyes. I love the way it handles everything. BONUS! If I find something interesting I can share it right from the app with a variety of networks, which I do often. Reeder is one app that gets zero complaints from me. I love it.

Get Reeder >>

17) Flipboard

Flipboard was recommended to me early on. I downloaded it and WOW do I love it. It basically pulls in your social feeds from facebook and twitter, allowing you to bring in individual lists. You can also pull in your Google Reader feed. Now, I still prefer Reeder for my blog feeds, but what makes Flipboard special is it's layout. It breaks your feeds down into a very clean, print publication layout, giving each post breathing room which makes for a more enjoyable read. It's not the primary tool I use to access my feeds and networks, but when I want to pop in for a bit and see what's going on this is the app I open. I'm hoping to see more local newspapers develop apps like this. This is me crossing my fingers.

Get Flipboard >>

18) Instapaper

A lot of times I'll stumble on an article that has more content in it than I can read on the fly. I usually don't have the time during the day to commit to those articles, but I definitely want to read it later. That's where Instapaper comes in. Most of my favorite news apps, like Reeder, offer the option to send an article to Instapaper, which is perfect for me. When my day is over and I have time to relax with a longer article I pop open Instapaper and there it is. Instapaper strips out the junk, giving each of the articles a nice and clean format which is easier on the eyes. If you like to read, and want a place to save the good stuff, then Instapaper is king.

Get Instapaper >>

19) HootSuite

I can't live without my Owl. That may sound pretty extreme, but it's kind of true. I started using HootSuite when it was first developed and I immediately took to it. I find a great deal of value in the relationships I've developed online through Twitter, Facebook, LinkedIn and other networks, and HootSuite let's me access them all in one place. The iPhone and iPad apps give me access to the same information I have on my desktop. There are some great Twitter and Facebook apps out there that do what they do really well, but when it comes to one stop social media management HootSuite gets my vote every time. I recently upgraded to the professional version of HootSuite which gives me access to more information about my activity, and my clients' as well. The interface is clean, and all of your feed columns can be organized into tabs for easy access. This is a very important tool when you're accessing the number of feeds that I do. Even if HootSuite isn't your primary app for any individual network, it's definitely worth keeping on hand.

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20) Friendly

So, I got the iPad and went to download the Facebook app and guess what? There's no Facebook app. I thought that was strange, and there are several articles on the web about the subject. So, I opted to give Friendly a try as a stand-in until Facebook changed their tune. Friendly does such a good job in the way that it handles Facebook that I don't imagine I'll be beating down the door to get an official Facebook app, if one ever emerges. It's got a nice interface that does everything your iPhone Facebook can do. I've found no problems with this app, and I find that it does the job when I want to see what's going on in our local Facebook stream.

Get Friendly >>

21) Twitter

Back in the day the Twitter app was only for the iPhone and it was originally called Tweetie. I remember that Tweetie was one of the first apps I ever purchased, and I loved it. It just handled Twitter in a different way that was simple, intuitive, and beautiful. Twitter eventually acquired this app and it became Twitter for the iPhone. Same great app. Fast forward to the iPad and you've got Twitter for the iPad and it's obvious that it's got all of the original DNA from Tweetie and then some. This is a beautiful, well thought out app for the iPad. When you want to sit with your Twitter feed this is the place to go. With each small update they make the app gets more enjoyable to use. If you're on the iPad and on Twitter, but not using this app you need to stop what you're doing and download it right now.

Get Twitter >>

22) Kindle

I almost bought a Kindle. In fact, thoughts about buying a Kindle were kind of the gateway to my eventual purchase of the iPad. I was already buying Kindle books and reading them on my laptop, or on my iPhone. I was sitting next to a gentelman who was reading a book on his iPad and we struck up a conversation on the subject. He said that he almost bought a Kindle, but figured he would eventually buy and iPad anyway, so why have two devices? This sounded like my sort of logic, and I'm glad I ended up making the same decision. Still, I've not purchased a single book from the Apple bookstore. I'm still liking the service I've received from Amazon, and I'm very happy with the Kindle app. So, I may not have a Kindle, but I'm still sold on the Kindle brand.

Get Kindle >>

23) Comics by Comixology

I love my paper comics. I really, really do, and I don't want to see my local comic book shop suffer because I'm buying comics on the iPad. Still, Comics by Comixology does a great job at puttying a paper comic on the screen. I can browse comics online, and download them right to the device. I like the way it handles pages, giving you a full view, then focusing in on the action and dialogue, guiding you from panel to panel. I hate to get moral about something like this, but I've set a rule for myself about this particular app. When it comes to the mainstream books that come out week to week, that I know my local shop carries, I choose to buy those books there. However, for books that I know they won't carry, or that I'd have to track down and order, I choose to get those on the Comics by Comixology app. I feel the same way about comics that I do about all printed publications; how long before traditional print is just gone? Will it happen in my lifetime? I think about it quite a bit, and I'm still not sure where I'm at on the subject.

Get Comics by Comixology >>

24) Netflix

The Netflix app does everything that someone with a Netflix account could ask for. This is great app for putting a movie on when your traveling, or killing time between meetings. There's a huge archive of B, C, and D list movies on Netflix, which make for great background noise when you're working on an all night creative project. What else can I say about it? If you have a Netflix account, and you have an iPad, then you need this app.

Get Netflix >>

What Say You?
Well, that sums up my 2010 iPad list. If you've recently purchased an iPad, or are considering adding one to your set of creative tools, then I hope this post was helpful.

There are a lot of great apps out there, and everyone has their own list of favorites. My biggest frustration is having to pay for apps only to find out that they don't function the way they are supposed to. I wish that every app had a lite version you could download for free to use for a limited time. It would definitely cut out some of the lower end apps floating in the market.

I'd love hear your thoughts about this list. Have you tried any of these apps? What are some of your favorites? Are there any that you just can't live without? I'm always looking for new ones that will help me be more creative and productive, so I'm open to recommendations.

P.S.
Watch this space on January 16th for a special Parker Brand update!

Eben Alexander Parker Update

2010-11-17T09:34:00.000-06:00

I've been promising an update, but as you can imagine, it's been kind of crazy over here.
Here goes...
We're finally home, and Mom is doing well.
She's still got plenty of pain, but we're managing it with some prescribed meds from the Doctor.
Like any newborn, Eben is having a hard time adjusting to being home, and we're still adjusting as well.
His first full day home was yesterday, although Monday night was when we actually arrived home.
First & second nights have been pretty restless.
Being in NICU has him all mixed up, so he's sleeping an hour, then waking up hungry.
We were already pretty beat emotionally & physically from the worry of his breathing problem, plus the extended hospital stay.
Being home finally has been a bit better, and I'm sure as Eben gets used to being away from the nurses and check-ups he'll start to sleep & eat better too.
Anyone who's had a baby knows exactly what I'm talking about, so I won't waste my words whining, or complaining.
Honestly, moving my tools home was a good move as it will allow me to fill those odd hours between feeding, rocking, pooping, and crying with some actual professional work.
I figured I'd be back to the 7:30am-5pm schedule by today, but our extended stay due to Eben's health have kind of thrown those plans out of sync, but I think a few more days of the topsy-turvy will make a huge improvement.
I have received all of your calls, texts, and emails; I want you all to know that I appreciate them.
My sincere apologies for not responding quicker.
We've received an influx of calls and visits (which only makes for a much more tired mommy & daddy) but that was to be expected.
Both sides of our families were on pins & needles this whole time, so they're all anxious when it comes to updates about Eben.
Anyway, I think that's all the info I have for now.
I'm sure there's something I'm leaving out, but my head feels like it was kicked by a mule right now.
A re-boot could generate more deets.
I know I'm a bit off-radar right now, but I'll be in communication 100% real soon.
Again, thanks for the all the kindness... Now, I'm gonna try and steal myself a 30-45 minute nap.
Peace be with you. -OP

Dissatisfaction=Action (Time To Do Something Different)

2010-10-20T06:33:00.001-05:00

I've always been bothered by excessive consumption. It has never really sat right with me, and there were times in my life when I would try to make sweeping changes in my life to rectify this. Each time I've went down that road I've realized pretty quickly that it's near to impossible to go all-or-nothing, especially raising a family, in our country. I've tried to find ways to satiate this dissatisfaction, but I would fall back into old habits and go about business as usual.

Well, the old sting has come back, but this time I've decided to make small, easy changes that I can truly implement on a personal level, and some that I can apply at home daily with my family as well. I want to share the journey, and my thoughts, with you.

I've openly shared my thoughts with others and I often get asked, "How does this fit in with your job? Aren't you in advertising?" I think this is a very good question, and it makes me look even harder at my chosen profession. I often ask myself this very thing. Being in advertising, a field that is very obviously geared towards the buying and selling of goods, can I honestly be true to my own feelings about consumerism without being a hypocrite? And on a side note, does this perspective that I embrace keep me from being good at my job?

I think the answer lies somewhere in the middle for me. I've always sort of half-joked that the reason I'm decent at small-market advertising is because I'm not a victim to it. I resist being "sold," always keeping a healthy dose of skepticism about the advertising I am exposed to.

I think that advertising can be creative field that can do a lot of good, especially if the program, event, business or group is offering something this is truly beneficial to the community. Of course, there's also the reality that it's just pushing another plastic bottle, or styro-foam cup, encouraging people to "buy and toss," rather than reuse.

I've decided to walk that tightrope, and live in the middle-grey area, for now. I think that embracing these thoughts and finding a way to apply them to my craft will be good for me and my clients. It will help me look deeper into what they do, and the message they are trying to communicate to the public by approaching it with honesty, looking for ways to create the most impact with the smallest drain on resources.

In presentations concerning social media I've often said that the dissatisfied will light the world on fire, while the satisfied sleep in the flames. That seems to apply here. Often, satisfaction breeds complacency, but dissatisfaction leads to action. Small actions. Small steps. Real, workable application in everyday life. That's the path I plan to take. I'll keep you posted on how it's going. -OP

The Goodwill Girls

2010-09-27T08:59:00.000-05:00

I love to go picking at Goodwill on $.50 Sundays. I always find something great, and even if it's not so great it's still only $.50. It's usually packed with folks, so I have to get in there and get pickin' like I've got a purpose. With all those folks jammed in the place I'm sometimes treated to a few horrible, yet wonderful sites. In fact, this past Sunday I was treated to something so horrible and wonderful that I felt I had to share it with you.

WARNING!!

These creatures are not for the faint of heart, but I would encourage you to not look away. Take a minute to really reconcile your thoughts on what you are seeing. My friends, meet the Goodwill Girls!

Now, I'm sure these lovely ladies were placed near the check-out line to help sell the fine dresses you see them wearing. They were so odd, and terrible, and strange, and AMAZING... I felt that if I stepped to close they may actually turn their heads and speak. It was like being in an Old Navy mannequin commercial gone horribly wrong. I'm certain that one of these débutantes will eventually make their way into my dreams, or rather my nightmares.

I'm always curious to see how creative businesses can be with their in-store displays and packaging, and I know that Goodwill certainly doesn't have anything that resembles a big-brand budget for that sort of thing. Still, I can't imagine the person who put this ensemble together thinking "that looks damn good." Although, in it's own quirky way it actually works.

So, I'm curious... which of the Goodwill Girls scares you the most? My money was on the one in purple, but after looking at the pictures again I think I'm gonna go with blue. something about those thin eyes and rosy cheeks. GAH!

What say you? Which one freaks you out?

A Couple of Tools Named "Mike" (What Should Craftsman Do?)

2010-09-24T08:21:00.002-05:00

So, I'm scanning through a few of my favorite Facebook fan pages this morning and I came across this lovely little conversation taking place over on the Craftsman Facebook fan page. It started out harmless enough, then a fella by the name "Mike" went off the rails with a pretty sexist statement. Needless to say, this was like kicking open an bed of fire-ants. What surprised me was that later on another fella named "Mike" popped in and supported the original Mike's statements.

I've captured the conversation here, and created a color-key so you can see the "Mikes" in question (I'm sure the conversation is still growing, so pop on over to the Craftsman Facebook fan page to follow along).

(CLICK THE PICTURE FOR LARGER VIEW)

I see this sort of thing happen a lot, and I'm always curious to see how brands such as Craftsman will handle themselves. Do they get involved? Kill the conversation? Take a stance? Or will they simply hope that the conversation will fizzle out? I think doing nothing can be just as dangerous for the brand as doing something.

I'd be very curious to know you folks think about this. What do you think Craftsman should do in a Social Media situation like this? I think this is an important question to ask, especially for those in business who have put their feet in the Social Media waters. It definitely reminds me of these slides from a few of my presentations...

From the presentation "My Tweet Story"

From the presentation "Social-lite"

From the presentation "I.D. Thy Self"

Living in the Sunshine, Having a Wonderful Time!

2010-09-23T08:31:00.002-05:00

I've been really busy for the past few months... I mean really busy. When most folks ask me how I've been, that's usually my answer, "It's been busy." Their reaction is, "That's good. Better than the alternative." I agree. It really is better than the alternative.

I love my clients. I love making their advertising look great, getting it done on time, and working within their budget. That's what I do. It's pretty rewarding to go from the initial meeting with the client, to work on their proposal and then finally see the project come to completion.

Here's the rub

When you do what you say you're going to do, do it well, on time and on budget word gets around. Again, this is a good thing. The problem arises when too many projects converge at the same time. It doesn't mean that the work can't be done at the same level, or on deadline. It just means that every minute is precious and that you have to do things by the numbers, with no hick-ups.

In time

Every project has to happen in time. I say this a lot, but I don't think many truly comprehend the weight of that statement. Time is a resource; a commodity. Our culture runs on a linear time system (I believe that we operate this way because our human lives are finite... or at least that's what we think). Time, for us, starts here and finishes over there. There is only so much of it available and every single thing we do is framed by this outline. So, when projects exist within the same time-frame you've got to be able to allot a certain amount of your time resources to specific tasks. To make this work effectively you've got to know how to do your job quickly and well, then properly manage your time. If you don't, then the whole system falls apart and that's when deadlines get missed.

Having a wonderful time

Anway... I love my job. I love my clients. I love making them happy... even if every now and then things get a little tight. I'm glad that they all trust me to do what I say I'm going to do, which is help them get their message out there in an effective, attractive and creative way... even if every now and then I feel like this.

Here's wishing all of you, and all my clients a wonderful time in the sunshine! Now, back to my linear scheduled program. -OP

Take Five #1: Get Some Perspective

2010-09-15T08:48:00.003-05:00

I'm a deliberate person. Not many things happen to me by accident. I'm very honest with my self about the decisions I make, and the actions I take. It is very rare for me to see something that is out of my control, but when I do I'm very conscious of the fact that if I apply myself then I might still affect the situation.

I've been this way for as long as I can remember, and over time I've developed personal systems that have kept me disciplined. I apply these systems to a variety of challenges, both personal and professional. One thing that has always worked for me is making lists. Such a simple thing, but doing this really helps me digest a problem, and come up with a plan that I can apply.

Now, lists can get really long and intricate, turning into mind-maps or outlines, and those can take you down rabbit holes, on to possibilities and solutions you never considered. This is a great method for problem solving, but it takes time and the ability to stay focused on the problem at hand without straying to far from the source. One way I've learned to break things down is by using a little system that I call "The Hand."

How the Hand Works

Every problem, project or task can be broken down into smaller, digestible pieces. Pretty simple. Gridlock often happens when an individual gets overloaded, and the tasks merge together into an undecipherable mess. What I've learned to do is find the five things that I know I can accomplish and then commit them to memory, just like counting numbers on my fingers. By limiting myself to five I can quickly recall the plan of action that I've put in motion, and set benchmarks for myself to help me make sure I'm following through. This method gives me a gauge to measure my actions against, and at it's simplest it helps me figure out where to start, and where I'm planning on finishing.

To give you a basic rundown of the way I do this, I thought I'd share one particular list that I use to help me start my day. I've used this one for several years, and it's honestly turned into kind of morning ritual for me.

Starting the Day

I've worked very hard to develop a strong mind. This doesn't mean that I think I'm smarter for it. What it means is that I am very aware of what's going on in it. I watch my thoughts carefully. I determined that I didn't want to live a life unaware, so to develop the awareness that I sought I had to first wrestle with my own inner workings. Over time, using the Hand method, I developed a simple outline that I try to work from each day.

Roam: I start each morning by allowing my mind to wander, letting thoughts arise as they will, at the same time being very aware of the content. It's hard to do this without controlling them, or allowing one to dominate. This is an excellent exercise in self-awareness. It allows you to sort of be an objective observer of you own inner workings, without forcing thougths into creation, or trying to control the ones that do arise.

Reconcile: It is inevitable that some thoughts will be stronger than others. Allowing the mind to roam is the place to start, but reconciling the thoughts, and trying to make sense of the stronger ones is important. I compare this to allowing your eyes to adjust to the dark. Eventually what you're looking at will make some sort of sense. This is where I concern myself with the "why" of what I'm thinking. If a thought arises more than once perhaps it is a track that should be explored.

Review: After I've made sense of my roaming, I review the thoughts to see if any of these thoughts were worth writing down? This is where I make a conscious decision to question my own thinking. Not every strong thought is worth bringing out of the mind and into the world. Should I say it, share it, or take an action? Sometimes the answer is "yes", but other times I decided to wait another day to see if the thought recurs. This is a fantastic exercise in self-discovery, where I am able to literally see what is important to, or consuming me.

Resolve: Once I've decided that a thought is valid and worth exploring further, then I write it down. I make a note of it, or capture it somewhere (these days it's more likely that I'll put something like this in an Evernote file for quick access). At this point I am saying to myself that this thing is important, and I am committed to doing something about it. Writing it down somewhere strengthens my personal resolve to take action.

Right Action: I come up with a plan. Whether these morning reflections are life changing, or simple things, I figure out what my first action step should be. What is the one thing I can do to set a wheel in motion so that these thoughts become things. What good are these thoughts if they don't change you, or your life? Taking action can help make something tangible that we can put our hands on, generating a very clear, physical result. Sometimes the right action is to take no action at all, but rather cultivate more awareness on a particular thing. Of course, the right action could be to come up with another "hand" list for a particular thought. I find this is often the case for me.

This Hand exercise could also be done at the end of day, especially when the mind in loaded with new information. I personally prefer to reflect in the morning after I've had a chance to sleep. Sleep really helps my mind file away the garbage. If something is important, then it will resurface, and by "roaming" and being aware I'll be able to identify the important things.

I hope you enjoyed this Hand list. I'd like to hear your thoughts, so please take a minute to coment. I plan to share more "Hand" lists in the future, so if you liked this, then let me know.

Hello, Ladies!: A Neat Product & Packaging Design That Caught My Eye

2010-09-07T14:44:00.001-05:00

For a product to sell it has to get noticed first. Once it's noticed, it can be purchased and used, then if it's really innovative someone will tell someone else about it, etc., etc. We all know how that works. While creating something innovative can really give a product it's legs, but it's the "getting noticed" that really gets those legs moving.

This weekend as I was shopping I noticed a product called "Brushing Beauties" on the shelf of our local "Bed, Bath & Beyond." Why did these little gals grab my eye? Well, not unlike the Pringle's can that I discussed a while back, the Beauties take things that we know (and are often disregarded), then twist them ever-so-slightly so as to cause our brain to question what we're seeing.

Now, these products aren't exactly innovative. They don't solve a problem, or introduce anything new. If anything, they're just scrub-brushes with a really cool paint job. But, that's not a reason for me to fault the company that makes them; quite the opposite. I think the Beauties are great!

The combination of the faces, hair & colors, married to the packing formed into their dresses, really makes them jump out at you in hard contrast to the other items on the shelves. I'm a hard sell, but I instantly found myself trying to think of someone to buy one of these for. In fact, I would have bought all three if I could have justified the purchase (I'm a hard sell).

In the end, was the product itself that great? No. Would I go back to pick these up for someone? Absolutely! There's no doubt in my mind that someone would be excite to have these... especially if I got the whole set.

The folks behind this product are putting their innovative brain power on the packaging design, and I think it works! I don't imagine that they're trying to change the world here. They just want you to see these brushes, and buy them. It's probably not any heavier than that. If that's the case then I'm going to call this an innovative packaging design win. What are your thoughts?

A Simple Question

2010-09-03T12:24:00.000-05:00

These days, it's nothing so see questionnaires or personality profiles passed around by friends on Facebook & Twitter. My radar tunes most of it out, but every now and then someone will post a question that strikes a chord with me. Even then it's got to be something really special for me to stop and answer.

The Question

Today, a friend dropped this question into his Facebook feed, "What can we as a country do to ensure that all children grow up to be healthy, productive members of society?" That's a pretty heavy question; one that you should really think about before answering.

I've always taken my fatherhood very serious, and I feel like I've asked myself this question in one form or another many, many times. I suppose it was because of this that I was compelled to give an answer, albeit off the cuff.

My Answer

"I'm not sure what the whole country can do... but if the Constitution remains intact, that's something to start with. If I (as a father) can at least trust that (the Constitution) as a solid, then I have a foundation to try to give my children a chance at being whole, healthy, happy adults.

Things I try to teach my children are:

Encourage them to identify their strengths very early on.
Be open to new ideas; try things.
Learn how to think about things on a deeper level.
Develop fearlessness, or at least try.
Be kind, fair & just; develop an internal sense of justice; right & wrong.
Figure out what you believe in (this doesn't have to be religion).
Defend what is yours.
Learn to wait.
Learn to act.
Learn to help.
Be dependable.
Protect the weak.
Don't take more than you need.
Remember that the country is FREE, and truly contemplate what that means.

Ultimately, I believe it's an individual responsibility.
I made my children, therefore it is my responsibility to see that they are prepared to live in this country.
As an adult, I have to first understand things like community, freedom, and justice before I can teach them.

Basically, I must be a deliberate parent."

Why I'm Sharing This With You

This blog, for the most part, focuses on things that I'm interested in, ranging from art & creativity, to comic books & entertainment. I've always carried the tagline, "The Creative Goods + A Decent Dose of Truth." Well, that's what this is gang... a decent dose of truth... Parker Brand style.

I'd like to share more of these thoughts with you from time-to-time, but I'd like to hear what you think first. Is this something that those who frequent this feed would be interested in, or do you just stop by for the pictures and such. This blog is your door to my brand, so I want it to be something that this community will enjoy and appreciate. I do want to put out an honest signal though, and sharing my thoughts on living, working and playing are a part of that.

Thank you for your time and feedback. -OP

"What Galactus knows,... he can DESTROY!" Reflections on a 1960s comic pick

2010-08-27T08:46:00.001-05:00

Sometimes you find a deal you can't pass up. This happened to me recently when I was picking up my comic pull from our local shop, Paper Heroes.

Every now and then Kevin (the owner) will by a bunch of old comics off of someone. Most of the time it's things that I bought back in the 80's, around the time of Crisis on Infinite Earths. But sometimes he'll get a batch of older stuff in, and I like to pick through those boxes when he gets 'em.

On this particular trip he had a stack of old Thor comics, about 6 or 7 of them, and they were in decent shape (and by that I mean that they weren't coming apart in my hands). I would loved to have had them all, but they were all around $6 bucks a piece and I'd already spent close to my weekly comic book budget (self imposed, mind you). That all being the case, I picked the one with the coolest cover and interiors.

I don't get an opportunity to look through old books like this very often. It's a rare treat, and I thought I'd share a few pages with you.

The date on the inside puts it being published in January of 1969. The really great thing here is that it's from the Stan Lee / Jack Kirby era of Thor, which pretty much established everything we know and love about the character today.

This cover design features a classic Thor picture, and also features another prominent Marvel character... GALACTUS!

Now, I'm not sure who this guy is (I must admit that I haven't read the issue cover-to-cover yet), but I liked the dynamism and simplicity of the page. What I really love about this page (and this book) is the dialog. I totally get what this guy is saying. I mean, how CAN one convey the dire menace of Galactus? I just don't think it's possible.

Even better is when the big guy shows up. Galactus pretty much has the ultimate "I don't give a shit" attitude. I'd hate to have to negotiate anything with him. I guess he's earned the right to be a dead-pan punk, what with being the last survivor of the original universe before the big bang (If you don't know, then look that stuff up).

So he comes into the picture in this issue, then proclaims, "What Galactus knows... he can DESTROY!" I love the full page shot of his face. The colors are really awesome, especially the hot green used on the word balloons. they really contrast with the fusia and navy of his armor.

The other bonus of digging through these old comics is the advertising. It's loaded with great little gizmos and gadgets from the '60s. I really cracked up when I saw the ad for a "Darling Pet Monkey." Did kids really order monkeys by mail? I can't even imagine asking my parents for that.

Anyway, I don't know about having a pet monkey, but I can just about guarantee that if were a kid in the '60s I'd have had my eye on the Hypno-Coin.

Who wouldn't want to "make people obey your command?" And all in the power of a single coin? I gotta have one.

I think I'm really going to start looking for more of these old comics; not really to collect them for resale, or anything. I just like having them to dig through and share with friends. It's nice to actually hold a piece of comic book / art history in your hand. It reminds me that things change, and for me that's an important lesson to keep at the forefront of your mind. Maybe someday some fella will buy one of my comics after I'm long gone, and reminisce about how comic books were actually drawn with ink, and printed on paper.

Fusion Five's "Social Media 2.0" Is Almost Here!

2010-08-26T08:05:00.000-05:00

What's an "Oran?"
It's easy to find out.

I'm all over the place!

See where...

Why not share this

with your network?

Share |

"Social Media 2.0" is almost here!

Have you sent in your RSVP?

Fusion Five, a professional organization in Lake Charles, Louisiana, is hosting a Social Media Summit for Southwest Louisiana professionals. The event, titled "Social Media 2.0" is this Friday, August 27th at the Willis Noland Resource Center (The Chamber) from 2-4 pm.

There was a great turn-out for last year's Social Media Summit, and it appears that Fusion Five is preparing for this to be a "standing room only" event, so please make sure you take a moment to RSVP .

It was my pleasure to share "My Tweet Story" presentation with the attendees from last year's Social Media Summit. This year I'm really "egg"cited (I know, I know) to share my thoughts on using social media to develop your personal brand in my new presentation, "ID Thy Self: Using Social Media to Build the Brand of You."

This is an "egg"cellent (Sorry!) presentation for those who are well versed in using social networks, and it's even better suited for a beginner who is interested in using the tools to step into the spotlight.

After this presentation you'll have a better handle on how to identify the things that make you who you are, and learn how to use them to build and manage a strong personal brand... even if you have to break a few eggs in the process.

So, what the heck should you be using Linked In for?

Make sure you RSVP for the Fusion Five: Social Media 2.0 event to see Becky Girola's presentation, where she'll give us the Linked In low-down! This is sure to be an eye-opener for those of you who have a Linked In profile, but haven't quite put it to work just yet.

I'm really looking forward to sharing what I've learned by putting Social Media to work for my personal brand over the past few years, and I know that Becky is pretty pumped as well. This should be a lot of fun for everyone, and a great professional networking opportunity.

See you at the social!

-Oran

ID Thy Self: Using Social Media to Build the Brand of You

View more presentations from Parker Brand Creative Services.

American Graphitti: Hulk vs. Thing!

2010-08-19T09:04:00.004-05:00

I'm driving my kids to work this morning, taking our usual route past the scenic refineries (pretty much exhaust, trains and big trucks), and my daughter shouts out, "Look, Dad!" I whip my head over and what a treat for the eyes!

There, painted on the side of a box-car, in super-bright colors, was the Incredible Hulk about to throw down with the ever-lovin' Thing! I thought you folks might dig on it, so I pulled over and snapped a few pics.

These refineries don't like for people to pull over and take pics so I have to be quick.

I tried to stop and snap a picture of a Louisiana habitat mural painted on the side of an oil tank once and was quickly run off by Citgo security.

Driving by the refineries every morning is a big time bummer. Nothing nice to see there. A graphitti treat like this is kind of rare, but it's really nice to see. In fact, a while back I posted some cool Space Ghost art from the same rail-yard.

I always wonder how long it takes to pull something like this off. I don't know much about graphitti art, but I imagine that the artists would have to be really quick, or the box-car would need to be in one place for a really long time. If anyone has any info this then I'd love to hear from you.

What's Behind Button Number 4?

2010-08-11T07:58:00.002-05:00

So, I stopped to fuel up this morning, and before I could get out of my vehicle I was bombarded with the sound blaring from the little screen at the left of the pump. Look, I'm all for advertising. In fact, good advertising can actually be entertaining and beneficial to society (I'll defend that another time). All that being said, good advertising is not what comes to mind when I run into one of these devices. They're very annoying, and nothing short of noise pollution.

I reached out to look for the magic mute button, and what did I see? If number 4 is any indication, then I'm not the only one who can't tolerate these things.

Thoughts?

"Something Happened On The Way Home" Final Reflections From The '90s

2010-07-29T09:19:00.001-05:00

Over the past few weeks I've been digging around in some old sketch books from the '90s. If you've been following along then you've probably seen many drawings that depict symbols, or totems that was very fixated on during that time.

That was a time of great discovery for me, and most that personal journey was set in motion by a series of subtle yet powerful events that took place in the Summer of 1995, specifically August 1st. I don't share the story with many people these days, as there are religious, meta-physical and supernatural elements involved. I find that the details unnerve many, and spark discussions that challenge the typical bible-belt view of religion that permeates the region in which I live.

I can say that as I trace back the moments of my life, I always come back to this specific day as a nexus point for great change. While I've reflected on all the moments of my life, those that I can recall with some clarity, this singular day instilled an openness, determination, balance and resolve that I still call on to this very day. It defines a large part of me and I apply the things I learned from that time period quite often.

I will spare you the details of the event, but I would like to share with you a series of sketches that I developed in the year 1996 as I reflected on the details of that August day in 1995.

"It Is All Okay"

"Eternal Rose"

"Face The Sun"

"Winter Fire"

"Calm"

"Morning Light"

I think this will be the last of my '90s sketches that I share, as I believe it to be the best place to stop. Nearly five years after the Summer of 1995 I slowly started to get away from drawing. There was almost a decade where I simply did not sketch. In the past two years that has changed and I am very happy about it. I bring this up to make a point. Often we learn lessons in life, important ones, and we vow that we'll never forget them. Somehow it's hard to do that, to be committed to a solemn personal vow.

What I've learned is that you have to lose your way to learn. You have to mess things up, lay down your vow, take a different path. This is how the shell cracks and allows a new light to come in. This is how realization is born. When things are broken something new can be made from the pieces. The key is to remember. My totems help me do that. They serve as reminders to stop and reflect from time to time. These totems were the greatest gift ever given to me. I would recommend developing personal totems to anyone.

My Wife Is Awesome... In A 1979 Heavy Metal Sort Of Way.

2010-07-21T16:32:00.004-05:00

So my Wife went on a little trip with her Mom this past weekend. They take make sure to have a bit of Mother/Daughter time every Summer. Well, my sweet lady always gets me some sort of gift when she travels, even though I insist that she not.

Last year she got me an old Green Lantern comic, which was really cool, but this year she wins the award of sweetest little miss of the year! Lookit what she grabbed for me...

It's the November 1979 issue of "Heavy Metal" and man do I love it! When I opened it up I was stunned at the color. What an amazing cover!

Another reason this cover really jumped out at me is because I recently stopped by Richard Pace's blog, "The Burning Monster" and followed along as he worked on his "Jungle Girl" piece. I thought this was a really cool piece, and they kind of echo each other.

[Source]

If you're not subscribing to Richard's blog then you need to get on over there and do that. You're missing some interesting artistic treats.

So, back to my 1979 "Heavy Metal." What a great gift, right? If you're a "Heavy Metal" reader then you know that each issue is loaded variety, talent and that great indy vibe. This issue was no slouch in any of those departments.

There was a great page where you could order back issues... all the way to issue 1! Try picking that up on the cheap.

And who the heck remembers "Heavy Metal Money?" Not me. So cool, right?

And just look at the composition and color on these two pages from the story "Elric." Oh. My. Dang!

This book is a beaut and I'm proud to display it in my office. What makes it even better is that my lady said she had other options, but she just knew I'd like this one the best. Like I said; great lady.

So honey, consider this an apology for all the times I told you not to buy me gifts. If you keep bringing home goodies like this, then I'll except them all with open arms!

It's Always Sunny In The '90s

2010-07-21T06:40:00.002-05:00

More thoughts from the '90s. I was definitely looking for something back then. It was something elusive. I had questions and the answers to the question where indirect. The harder I looked the more I realized that the answer didn't exist. Meaning didn't exist.

My personal discovery that there wasn't an answer actually ended up resolving a great deal for me. Once I accepted that I couldn't find it, and that most things only echoed of this truth I was looking for, then a sense of peace started to emerge.

In giving up and saying "I don't know" I found a great deal of stability on the matter. It helped me see the world, the ebb and flow, as it is only. When I stopped applying my own desire for meaning and understanding to everything, true meaning and understanding began to emerge. I feel I carry that same "not knowing" with me today.

"Finding My Way" Exploring More Sketchy Goodness From The '90s

2010-07-20T12:57:00.002-05:00

More remnants from my mid-nineties sketch books. As I said in earlier posts, I was really looking inside myself pretty hard back then, looking for my true face (heavy, right?). I really wrestled with the idea that what defines a thing is mostly made up of what we think about it. I learned pretty quickly that what we think might be skewed, and cause us to see just the surface, missing what matters most. Often a thing is much more simple than we make it out to be.

Anyway, along the way I started picking up on symbols or totems that represented specific ideas. They became archetypes, and when I encountered them in the world they served as reminders to reflect. In looking back at my sketch books I see these little icons appearing over and over again. The glyph that eventually became my personal mark, the Parker Brand, also emerged around that time, along with several other marks.
Ah... the '90s.

Posted via email from The Parker Brand Picture Post!

"Jesus, Dude" A 90's Sketch of the Man

2010-07-20T06:32:00.004-05:00

So, I'm on this 90's kick, digging through old sketch books. I'm finding some really great things. Some of these little sketches are really bringing me back, and reminding me of just how much I've learned.

One lesson that got carved in my ribs back then was that Jesus was the man. Seriously. I don't care what religion you cling to, or what you believe in because I think believing is just bogus. Just look at the man.

Even if the carpenter's life story got all screwed up by the people who've tried to write it down, you still have to admit that he's pretty incredible. Just a simple man, who said simple things, and changed the world. Jesus was alright. I don't think most of us have the ability to really wrap our minds around him.

Anyway, I still look to the man, especially when I'm working the long plan, thinking way down the road, looking at the bigger picture. The man helps me remember that sometimes you have to go through some things, some pretty rough things, to get to the place you're going. That's okay by me.

Posted via email from The Parker Brand Picture Post!

"Sew What" A Guest Micro-Sketch Post Over At "My Girl Thursday"

2010-07-20T06:26:00.004-05:00

You should totally check out my guest blog over at "My Girl Thursday." I go through some of my micro-sketching steps, share deets on a few of my tools, and post lots of pictures of the process. Besides, MGT is a fantastic craft blog with lots of cool things to see and learn from. Why not visit, then add it to your favorite RSS reader?

Posted via email from The Parker Brand Picture Post!

"Third Eye" More 90's Sketchy Weirdness

2010-07-19T16:02:00.004-05:00

1995 to 2000 were really weird times for me. I was going through some pretty heavy things, becoming a Dad, and figuring out what kind of man I was going to be. Looking back through my old pre-millennium sketch books reminds me of all the deep philosophy, religion and mysticism that I was feeding my brain. Looking at myself a decade later, I can definitely see how much of what I put in my head has defined me today. Pretty groovy stuff.

Posted via email from The Parker Brand Picture Post!

"Reach For The Sky" A Logo Goes Into Action

2010-07-16T08:57:00.003-05:00

I recently started working with a new client. I was hired to help them develop their logo, and am now working with them on the signage for their new location. We installed their "Coming Soon" banner last Friday and it turned out great! It's highly visible from the street and the colors really stand out. I've got to say, there's something pretty rewarding about seeing a logo go into action. It's even more rewarding when you know you did your job well and on time, and left your client satisfied.

Posted via email from The Parker Brand Picture Post!

Scribbles 1994

2010-07-16T08:41:00.004-05:00

I used to draw a heck of a lot more in the 90's. It really didn't matter what I had to use, I always managed to lay something down on paper just about every day. I've been flipping through some of my old sketch books and have found some things from the Parker Brand archives that I thought I might share.

Today's pics are a few ballpoint pen portraits and sketches I did on some down time while working at the video store. One is of me, one of a co-worker, and attempt at Christian Slater (I think "Pump Up the Volume" was popular at the time) and few hands and objects.

I'm having a lot of fun digging through these sketch books. It's amazing how a drawing can really bring you back to the very moment it was being created. Maybe it has something to do with the extreme focus that's taking place. I find that when I'm drawing I'm truly present in the now. Anyway, I hope you folks will enjoy this scribbling walk down memory lane.

Posted via email from The Parker Brand Picture Post!

"Just for Fun" Begins!

2010-07-16T06:50:00.000-05:00

Over the past few months I've been working on a pool of sketches for a September art show at the Brimstone Museum titled "The Drawing Board." There are four artists in the show and we've each been directed to save our preliminary sketches to display along with our finished pieces. We were also given categories to work towards, such as "American Heroes," "Local Flavor," and "Fun and Games" (or "Just for Fun"... I can't remember).

For the "Just for Fun" category I wanted to do something that really played toward my heavily rendered inking style, but still had a definite toon element to it. I also wanted there to be some sort of a story to be told with a freaky monster element.

I want to keep this piece under wraps until it's completed, but I did want to share the reference images above to get the lead and ink flowing. More on this in the near future!

How To Make A Real Gumbo... Gumbo Gator, That Is.

2010-07-11T15:00:00.001-05:00

A few months back made plans to work on a Parker Brand version of the Southwest Louisiana pop culture mascot Gumbeaux Gator. I posted this quick little sketch of my concept, along with a drawing I had done of the original Gumbeaux Gator, which was used as part of a t-shirt design I worked on.

I let is rest for a bit, but this past week I've been pecking along in the evenings, trying to work on the final pen and ink piece. If you've been following this blog then you've probably seen it go through it's various stages. I finished up the inking and ink wash before lunch today, and I wanted to share the final drawing with you.

I'm pleased with the way it turned out. I was trying to mimic my own style from the Monster Mash series I did this time last year. I used Pitt Artist Pens on that series and I used my Sable Brush on this. I was worried that they wouldn't look similar in style, but I think there is a close enough resemblance to satisfy me.

I've had a pretty good response from this piece, so I may be selling prints of it over at my Etsy Store before it's all said and done. I hope you all dig it. Now, on to the next sketchy victim.

The Winning "FedEx Rainbow" Captions... It's So Intense!

2010-07-09T20:02:00.002-05:00

Well, I had a pretty good time with the FedEx Caption Contest. I had a lot of great entries. Some of them really cracked me up. None of them were bad at all. It was a real treat and I laughed out loud at quite a few of them. Heck, Federal Express even tuned in and helped promote the contest! I've gotta give them props for using their Twitter account to engage the public in a very laid back way.

No matter how great they all were, I had to pick one to be the winner of the grand prize. Before anyone starts throwing me under the FedEx truck, remember that I'm a pretty heavy Thor fan from way back. When you understand that, then my choice makes perfect sense.

This caption just seemed to fit to me. I got a good chuckle out of it (I had to explain my reasoning to my wife and kids though) and I liked the way it brought the whole thing home with "We Deliver." It kinda made me thing that the truck could be driving towards the Rainbow Bridge, on it's way to Asgard to deliver another shipment of Uru metal. So, congratulations to Eric Scrogg's on winning the full set of Parker Brand ATC prints. I'll also be throwing in a quick Thor sketch as well. I think Eric will find that it'll fit in fine with his excellent caption.

I decided to pick second and third place winners as well. The first is by my pal Julie Fay, and it's was great as well. There were a couple of captions that hit on the "Rainbow Connection," but her caption really sold it for me.

I've decided to send Julie a sketch print from my collection and she'll be receiving a custom sketch of Kermit and Piggy. I hope she enjoys it.

Now, I had a whole different reason for picking the third caption. Honestly, there were some pretty good ones in the slew of entries I received, but when I read this one I laughed out loud because I could literally hear it being sung in my mind. The third prize goes to the mega-talented illustrator Matt Bors.

I think I was a late to the party on the "Double Rainbow" video (which was shared with me by my good buddy Thom Trahan... thanks Thom!), but it's honestly one of the funniest and greatest things I've EVER seen on You Tube. Well, it got even better when I heard the "Double Rainbow Song." Ever since I've heard that thing it's been stuck in my brain on repeat. Matt's caption touched that nerve, so that's why he's gonna get a sketch (by me) of his Tea Bag character (I love that tea bag guy... he's pretty much nuts... and frighteningly accurate).

Here's the song that inspired Matt's caption (and makes me happy to no end).

If you're not following Matt, or following his blog then you should be. I like to think I serve the truth, but this guy is a truth gladiator and I'm honored that he stopped by this blog.

I'd be a real punk if I didn't share all of the other great captions with you. I usually do contests where winners are chosen at random, and not hand-picked by me. Things like this are all a matter of taste, so who knows which ones you folks might really like?

THE FEDEX RAINBOW CAPTIONS

I WANT TO KNOW WHERE THE GOLDS AT! so, can I get a tracking number please?
Contents of the truck? Gold and Lucky Charms.
Someday we'll find it, the Rainbow Connection. The lovers, The dreamers, and inexpensive overnight delivery options! Laa dee daa dee dee daa dooo
Driver on cell phone: "I don't know what it is, but no matter where I deliver it, folks always seem to find my pot of gold!"
On CB Radio: "Hurry! Hurry! BP's CEO has run out of Lucky Charms!"
Miss Piggie's Butler: "We have tracking confirmation on the Frog."
Skittles, deliver the rainbow
Had your Breakfast today? Fed-Ex-tra Ground Rainbow! Have some.
Fed-Ex: Dispersing a wide spectrum.
It's a rough economy–Even leprechauns need day jobs!
Color Our World. Ship Fed Ex.
Speed up! FedEx is going to get there first!
Ship Over the Rainbow with FedEx
With FedEx Your Package is Good as Gold
Fed Ex. Through the stormwinds of Midgard to the perilous Land of the Frost Giants of Asgard, via the mystical Rainbow Bridge. We deliver.
Fed Ex. A Rainbow in the Dark.
Fed Ex. We're so gay for you.
10 seconds after this photo was taken, this Fed Ex truck exploded with Skittles. Skittles...taste the explosion.
Rainbows aren't the only good thing Fed Ex delivers. We deliver puppies, too. Fed Ex...taste the puppies.
Fed Ex. We'll even go over the rainbow for you.
FedEx: Guaranteed delivery of paired animal species to higher ground since Genesis 7:6 ...that's a promise.
Fed Ex. We make your dreams come true.
Fed Ex. In brightest day and blackest night.
FedEx Ground: Now with inter-dimensional unicorn-horn positioning systems in all vehicles.
Good God! He sent it Fed Ex!
(to the tune of "Double Rainbow Song!!") Fed/Ex Rainbow all the way across the sky...Yeah! Yeeeeah! It's so intense!

There you have it! Not sure if everyone will agree my picks. I appreciate all of you playing along. It was a great time. Keep tuning in to the Parker Brand Way (why not just add it to your Google Reader?). I promise to keep it interesting.

CONGRATS TO THE WINNERS!

A Gator Update

2010-07-08T21:04:00.002-05:00

Not much to report. Watching the kids play, cooking Great Northern Beans, talking with Twitter pals about complete, double-rainbows and working on my "real" gumbo gator drawing. Still pecking at this thing in between other things. Oran out.

Posted via email from The Parker Brand Picture Post!

FedEx: Delivering Rainbows (A Caption Contest)

2010-07-08T09:35:00.005-05:00

Oran Parker took this picture. He owns it. Yeah... it's not great, but don't swipe it, okay?

So, a while back I was driving down Interstate 10 near Lake Charles, Louisiana right after a big rainstorm. The sky had that really pretty, right-after-the-storm glow where just a bit of light peeks through the clouds. Trucking along, I noticed a rainbow dropping out of the sky, and it seemed to land right on top of the Federal Express Ground truck that was driving in front of me. I grabbed my iPhone and took the best photo I could, what with all the highway bouncing and my shaky hands (yeah, yeah... I shouldn't be taking photos while driving). It's not very clear, but it's still a fun little shot and I figured we could have some fun with it.

Drop by my blog, the Parker Brand Way, and leave a caption in the comments section. There are a lot of creative individuals who pop in from time-to-time, so I'm sure you folks can come up with something great! The best caption I receive by this Friday (July 9th, 2010) at 3pm CST will receive a full set of Parker Brand Sketch Card Prints (you can check those out here). I may throw in some bonus prizes for runners-up, as well.

So, have fun and let's get those captions coming in.

Posted via email from The Parker Brand Picture Post!

A Gator On The Go

2010-07-06T22:40:00.002-05:00

I started working on my Louisiana themed piece for the "Drawing Board" show (I posted the concept sketch at www.oranparker.com about a month ago). I needed a break from my western heroes' portraits, so I figured I'd peck on this for the rest of the week. I'll probably sink in at least an hour a night. I'll post the progress as I make it. Thanks for taking a look-see.

Posted via email from The Parker Brand Picture Post!

It's A Likeness, Pilgrim: Attempting To Sketch John Wayne

2010-07-05T21:05:00.001-05:00

It's amazing how much you can fit in a day. I managed to do a ton of yard work, take the family to Hobby Lobby for some creative supplies, get home and hit some cleaning chores, then sit down to work on some of my sketches for the "Drawing Board" show. I'm still adding to my Western Film Heroes series, and a list like that wouldn't have been complete without John Wayne.

I used a terracotta sketching pencil to do my initial warm-up sketch.

I did my next sketch with a Sumi brush and crimson India Ink. Similar to the Lee Van Cleef sketch I did a couple of weeks ago, I didn't do any initial breakdowns before I did this one. It's fun to just dive into the ink really quick and see how accurate my hand/eye coordination is.

Of course, these sketches moved me towards my final ink drawing, which I did with my trusty Sable and Super Black India Ink.

Like most of the work I do, I would say that this is only a likeness of John Wayne. I just don't think I'm skilled enough to do anything that's dead-on. Maybe if I'd commit to something over a period of time, really work on it for day and days... but that's just not the kind of time I have.

As I said in other posts, I'm not too happy to have these works appear in a show. I just don't think they're good enough for that. They're fine as hobby pieces, but gallery works... no dice.

As always, I hope you dig and I thank you for taking the time to put your eyes on my sketches. If you have a moment, why not leave me a comment? It's a great way to make a new connection.

Make 'Em Curious: A Packaging Design That Works For Me

2010-07-05T08:05:00.007-05:00

I was shopping with my kids on Sunday. While standing in the checkout line a series of bottles caught my eye. Normally, bottles wouldn't made me stop, but these did. When I took a second look I realized that they were Pringle's chip cans.We love Pringle's in our home, and actually had three flavors in our buggy for check-out.

So, what made me stop on these? I believe it's all about signals. If you're used to seeing Pringle's with different colored cans & flavors then you may walk by a whole row of them without giving the product a second thought. But, these cans send out the traditional Pringle's "signal" to the brain. The design on the can, set in it's optical-illusion style, says "I'm a bottle." I believe the mind has a hard time reconciling these two signals. In an instant it realizes that there is a problem to be solved, then you stop to solve this mystery. This all happens very quickly, mind you. My family and I had a decision to make; are we interested enough to try them?

Being fascinated by this little design & product placement tactic, I bought all three cans. It turns out that all three flavors are pretty good, but none so good that I would seek them out again, of course I would imagine that is not Pringle's goal. They want to move these flavors right now. That's it. It puts the brand in your cubbard for you to try. If you like any of them then you'll be willing to try the other products that are coming out of the line.

We'll finish the chips, and I'll keep the cans in my office. They'll serve as a reminder of an age-old marketing strategy; be consistent, make folks comfortable, then break your own pattern from time to time to grab attention. Now, I've got some Ketchup flavored chips to eat. Thanks for stopping by.

A Drawing Lesson In Progress

2010-06-28T22:01:00.002-05:00

In a couple of weeks, I'm supposed to be doing an hour long lesson on drawing, sketching and tooning with several groups of children, all of varying ages. Tonight I started working through some of the lessons that I think the kids will find valuable.

I wanted give the kids a chance to learn some basic human facial structure, hopefully showing them how to break down a human head. I really want to show the kids that you can start off really simple and then take the basic structure as far as they want. Here are a few of the images that I sketched out for the lesson.

I also think it would be fun for the kids to draw some sort of fantasy creature. My plan is to follow the same pattern, teaching them how to start out with something really simple, enhancing their drawing as far as their able. I got this creature idea from the little book of 100 monsters. I found one that I thought would be great for the lesson as my inspiration.

I'm still working this whole lesson out. I'm sure it'll change before I'm all done. Heck,... these sketches may not even end up in the plan. Still, working it out this way will help me get a handle on what's gonna work and what won't. I can't make this lesson too complicated. It's got to be fast and it's got to be simple. Of course, it has to be interesting too. I'll keep you folks updated. Thanks for poppin' in.

"Attempting Al" I Swear This Is Just A Sketch

2010-06-27T09:24:00.003-05:00

I've been attempting to draw western film characters lately. Last night I attempted to draw Al Swearengen from "Deadwood" (I did an unauthorized manila envelope pen sketch last week). The idea was that these western attempts would end up in this little local art show called "The Drawing Board." The more I work on them, the less I feel that having my drawing attempts appear in a gallery is a good idea. In fact, I find myself wishing that there were some way to go back in time and get out of it.

Fact is I don't like being a part of awards, shows, ceremonies, having titles, wearing badges, showing in galleries, etc... just not my thing, I suppose. I'm okay with being that way. It's just the way I am. I like sharing my drawing attempts and creative works here on my blog, and working on projects like these with my kids and friends. Guess that's why I'll always be a hobbiest. I just like attempting to draw stuff. It's fun. If I get better at it because I make these attempts then that would be cool too. Not a big aspiration.

The big pay-off of sharing my attempts here is that I get to meet a lot of great people from all over the world who like to draw and create things as well. I attempt to draw because I can. I attempt to draw because it's something creative to do besides the work I do in advertising. I attempt to draw because it allows me to connect with folks. When it gets heavier than that a bit of the joy disappears.

Posted via email from The Parker Brand Picture Post!

Southwest Louisiana Arts Camp 2010: Celebrating the Arts and the Creative Spirit for 30 Years

2010-06-25T09:58:00.001-05:00

I've been sending my children to the Arts Camp in Southwest Louisiana for the past four years. The camp is held during the first month of summer, beginning the first week that school lets out for break. It's turned into something that they both really look forward to each year, counting down the days as school ends and art camp begins.

For the last two years the camp has been held on the campus of the Lake Charles Boston Academy for Learning. It is a much larger facility than in years past. As a parent of participating children, I think the move to this facility was smart, and I take it as a sign that the Camp has grown.

Each year, on the final day of camp, they hold an open-house event for everyone in the community to come and enjoy the campers' work on display. This year the bulk of the work was displayed in the campus gymnasium, which made the viewing experience all the more enjoyable.

It was really nice to see the large crowd come out. When you see the parents, families and children all gathered in one place to see their individual camper's work you really get a sense that there is something special happening with this program.

They had a nice refreshments area at the event last night. I saw this sign at the station, and it was then that I realized the camp had been around for 30 years. What an accomplishment!

In the same area, there was a display of 30 years of Arts Camp t-shirts. A t-shirt can be a small thing, but when you see them collected in one place like this you realize that you and your children are a part of something special. There is history there.

I'm always excited each year to hear about my childrens' projects. They really seem to get into them, and I love the way they share the details when they get home. It's always such a treat to finally see their work. What they share with their words paints a mental picture, and I find that what I see in my minds-eye is never quite correct.

I usually sign my daughter up for cartooning and drawing, since that seems to be where her strengths and interests lie. Right now, she's really into wolves and manga style art, so much of what she produced reflects those affinities.

Samples of Lily's Work

My son, seems to have a different set of interests. He loves making craft-art, so I try to get him in the classes that focus on building things, or making art from other objects.

Samples of Jonah's Work

I feel extremely blessed to live in a community that offers a summer program for children that is so enriching, and I am even more grateful that my livelihood provides me with the means to send them each year. It brings them so much joy each summer. It would be truly heartbreaking for me if I were not able to provide this for them.

I believe that the Southwest Louisiana Arts Camp helps my children express themselves creatively, helping them grow into more well rounded individuals. It teaches them to use their imagination, and shows them that if they can think of something in their mind then they can make it real with their tools and hands. This camp also teaches them that there is a large community of creative people out there with good hearts and kind spirits. To me this is the most important lesson of all.

Soon, my daughter will be too old to attend the camp, so I hope to see her stay involved by working as an assistant, eventually volunteering her time to teach, like many of the art campers from the past. I believe that teaching children to live well, be smart, be kind and utilize the creative aspects of their mind is truly holy work. If my children are motivated to take that path in life, then I'll give my bones to the wind without a fight.

As I browsed the plethora of art, several individual pieces and displays really stood out to me. Some were simply attractive because of color, others design, and some skill. There were many that simply made me smile.
I've done my best to clump these favorites together. I hope the young artists, assistants and instructors will forgive my titles.

"Psychodelica"

"Hoot Masquerade"

"Under Sea Glass"

"Twitter Birds"

"Random-O-Rama"

These faves are only a small sampling of the work that was on display. I took a lot of pictures of the works at the event, and have put them into the gallery below. Take a minute and treat yourself to the creative goodness that is the result of the 2010 Southwest Louisiana Arts Camp.

If you're interested in seeing some of the work from the 2009 Art Camp, you can click over and see that gallery here.

"Unauthorized Manila" A Parker Brand Preliminary Sketch of Al Swearengen

2010-06-24T16:49:00.001-05:00

If you've been following along, then you know that I've been working on a series of sketches themed around western film heroes. I've got a list of western folks whose likenesses will eventually come to life with my ink. One of them will be Al Swearengen from the HBO series "Deadwood."

I didn't have my supplies with me today, but I felt the itch to sketch. I grabbed a manila envelope and a Sharpie and did a quick line drawing of 'ol Al.

Not too bad a likeness for a quick burn-em-out. I'll be working on the finished ink sketch tonight (which I will most definitely post). Doing these pre-op sketches kind of helps get me psyched up to work on the finished piece. It's fun drawing with random pens, on "unauthorized" paper.

Gotta love Al, "Deadwood" and all that terrible language they throw down...

Some "Van Cleef" Sketch Action

2010-06-23T21:39:00.003-05:00

I haven't had a lot of time to draw lately. Since I finished my Series-2 ATC set, I've been slammed over in "ad-land." Honestly, by the time I get home I'm pretty burned out and I just want to rest my brain. My wife motivated me to lay down some ink by getting me a nice, glass-top drafting table for Father's Day. I've been itching to sit down and give it a test drive since Sunday, so tonight I made some time to sit down for sketch.

I've mentioned in a few posts that I'm working on a series of western movie sketches for an exhibit titled "The Drawing Board." The goal is to do do really quick sketches, then develop one of them into a more finished piece. One of our sketch focuses is "American Heroes" and my western sketches are a part of that particular category. A couple of weeks ago, I did a quick sketch of Clint Eastwood for that series. Tonight I took a stab at Lee Van Cleef.

Since I hadn't drawn in a while I decided to do three sketches, the first two being very, very rough and quick. The first was done with a simple sketching pencil, with pretty soft lead, mainly to loosen my hand up.

The second sketch was done even faster, with a blown out water color brush. I had picked up some sepia india ink, so I decided to give that a run through. The brush really was the pits, but I still kind of dig the variation I got from the pencil sketch. It was a nice way to find the hard shadows.

Finally, I dropped some light pencils on a fresh sheet, then started hacking away with black india ink and my #3 Sable. I spent a bit more time on this final sketch. It's not dead-on, but I think it's definitely got a likeness of Van Cleef. This piece almost seems to be a combination of the two previous sketches.

After I felt like I had laid down enough black, I went back and added a really quick wash to help enhance the light-play on his face. I think it helped.

All-in-all, I had somewhere near an hour and half in all the sketches. This fits right in with the parameters of "The Drawing Board" gallery series. I've got quite a few more of the screen western heroes to sketch out. I'm having a lot of with them, so I hope you folks dig them.

"Medusa Man & Gizmo" A Few Parker Brand Family Sketches

2010-06-17T13:57:00.001-05:00

I tell ya, it's really been one of those weeks where I can barely see the light of day. I've got advertising projects popping in from every direction, so it's all I can do to keep a handle on them, and since in the proper amount of creative juice. By the time I get home, I'm kind of spent and really haven't felt much like putting any ink down. Lucky for me, my children have been working on some creative projects of their own, and I'd like to share a couple them with you.

My 6 year old son came up with this little treat the other night. When I asked him who it was, he says, "It's Medusa Man!" I love it

"Medusa Man" by Jonah Parker, Age: 6

My 12 year old daughter wanted to treat me to a couple of ATC sketches, so I asked her to draw Stripe and Gizmo from the Gremlins. She finished up the Gizmo card a few nights back.

"Gizmo" by Lily Parker, Age: 12

It's nice to have kids that can pick up the creative slack when I'm feeling burned out. I hope you guys dig on these. I'd really appreciate your comments. I'm sure the Parker Brand kids would love to hear what you think.

"Sketch Print-A-Palooza!" A Parker Brand Giveaway

2010-06-10T09:14:00.003-05:00

I've been working towards completeing my second series of sketch cards, and if you've been following this blog then you know that I completed the set yesterday with this sketch card of the Batman, Bruce Wayne. I wanted to have another big giveaway, and completing this set means that time has finally come! I try to keep the rules simple, with plenty of opportunities to win! Here's how to play...

THE RULES

It's pretty simple, really. Take a look at the prizes, scroll down to the bottom of the post, and leave a comment. Your comment must include these words (Super, Fear, Energy, Magic and Sword) for you to be considered a contestant. Make sure you sign in when you comment (and leave an email address, so I can notify you about your winnings). The deadline to leave a comment is this Friday, June 11, 2010 at 3 pm CST (that's tomorrow, folks). It's just that simple. No strings attached. I'll feed all the contestants into a randomizer, then choose 5 winners! Now, check out the prizes...

5th PRIZE (The Ladies)

This set consists of 9 sketch card prints of Supergirl, Batgirl, Mockingbird, She-Hulk and Starfire, plus the bonus penciled cards.

4th PRIZE (Heroes Plus Pencils)

This set consists of 26 sketch card prints of Captain America, Daredevil, Supergirl, Iron Fist, Mad Max, Kingdom Come Superman, She-Hulk, Batman, Superman, Booster Gold, Hellblazer, Thundarr and Martian Manhunter, plus each of their bonus penciled cards.

3rd PRIZE (Complete Series-1 Set)

This set consists of 21 sketch card prints of Hellblazer, Doctor Solar, Hell Boy, Eddy, Trap Jaw, Batgirl, Jonah Hex, Thundarr, Darkseid, Mad Max, Clone Trooper, Power Girl, Turok, Kingdom Come Superman, Thor and She-Hulk, plus bonus penciled cards.

2nd PRIZE (Complete Series-2 Set)

This set consists of 27 sketch card prints of Supergirl, Starfire, Martian Manhunter, Daredevil, Deathlok, Booster Gold, Batman, Iron Fist, Hawkeye, Green Lantern, Deathstroke, Tarzan, Captain America, Superman, Elektra and Mockingbird, plus bonus penciled cards.

GRAND PRIZE (Complete Series-1 & Series-2 Set)

This set consists of 48 sketch card prints from Series-1 and Series-2, containing drawing of Martian Manhunter, Captain America, Doctor Solar, Kingdom Come Superman, Deathlok, Clone Trooper, Batgirl, Green Lantern, Tarzan, Superman, Iron Fist, Supergirl, Trap Jaw, Mad Max, Elektra, She-Hulk, Powergirl, Hellblazer, Mockingbird, Starfire, Thor, Hell Boy, Darkseid, Batman, Jonah Hex, Thundarr, Deathstroke, Hawkeye, Turok, Daredevil, Eddy and Booster Gold, plus bonus penciled cards.

...GRAND PRIZE Also Includes...

1-8.5x11 print of a Firestar sketch process

...Plus...

1-8.5x11 print of a Supergirl sketch process

...And Finally!

1-8.5x11 print of a Thor pencil sketch

Why I Do This

I like meeting new, creative individuals and I think art is fun! These contests are a great way to keep that wheel spinning, so I hope you'll have fun coming up with your comments. After you've done that, take a minute to connect with me by visiting my social networking hub. Remember! The deadline to enter is tomorrow at 3pm CST. Good luck, to everyone!

"Bruce" A Parker Brand ATC Sketch

2010-06-09T17:05:00.003-05:00

Well, after a lot of thinking, I decided to go with a classic for the final card in my Series-2 set of sketch cards... Bruce Wayne! I figured since the 'ol boy was on his way back from hopping through time (don't ask), he'd be the perfect candidate to top things off. Since the set is complete, I think it's time for a giveaway! I promise, this one will be BIG, with lots of prizes (which means lots of chances to win). Start watching the Parker Brand Way tomorrow for a contest update! Good luck!

Posted via email from The Parker Brand Picture Post!

"Supergirl" A Parker Brand ATC Sketch

2010-06-09T11:36:00.003-05:00

I needed a warm-up sketch this morning, and Supergirl popped into my head. With the completion of this sketch card, I now have only one empty slot in my Series-2 card set. Any suggestions as to who the last sketch card should be? I added Hawkeye yesterday, and you can see the rest of the cards I've done by clicking here!

Posted via email from The Parker Brand Picture Post!

"Clint Barton aka Hawkeye" A Parker Brand ATC Sketch

2010-06-08T16:17:00.003-05:00

Not much to report. Took a really late break here at the end of the day. Figured I needed to draw a little something to keep the ad-world from melting my brain. Took a stab at Marvel's marksman, Hawkeye. Not sure why I felt like showing him without the mask. Thinking maybe I should have just drawn it. Maybe another time. Only two cards left until my Series-2 sketchcard set is complete. That means it's almost contest time. So, who should I draw to fill in the last 2 cards in this set? I'm taking suggestions. If you want to see what I've got so far, dig around here.

Posted via email from The Parker Brand Picture Post!

"Thor,... Again" A Parker Brand "Artfix Noctum" Sketch

2010-06-05T23:35:00.004-05:00

I just got home from my buddy Erik's studio where a group of us get together for sketch night, which Erik has dubbed "Artfix Noctum." We didn't have a theme tonight.We just drew whatever we wanted, while got our geek on. I've noticed that when I don't know what to draw, I either draw Thor or Jonah Hex. Tonight it was Thor, mostly because I've really been bummed about the concept art for the movie costume. I'm not saying that my pencil sketch tonight was any better, but I think the movie costume looks like it was developed in a lab... not suitable for a viking thunder god. I would love to see how the Hell Boy director would have handled Thor's gear. Anyway, no ink for me tonight. I wasn't in the mood, so I stuck with pencil. It was fun. I took some liberties with the classic Thor design, but I tried to keep the iconic elements accurate. Gave him some weird facial hair, too. Hope you folks dig it.

Posted via email from The Parker Brand Picture Post!

"Elektra" A Parker Brand ATC Sketch

2010-06-04T16:37:00.004-05:00

I've been pushing through my projects pretty hard today. I just about wrapped up several package designs, made headway on a new logo project, and started re-tooling a new campaign that I received changes on today. That, and the "bring-bring" of the phone all day... well, I needed a break. I took one and worked up this really quick ATC sketch of Elektra.

I would love to do a nice drawing of her someday, but today all I had to give her was 10 minutes. It's pretty choppy. Add to the mix that I used dual-tip Tombo markers (not my sketching tools of choice) and you can see why it looks sort of "meh." Anyway, take the good with the bad, I suppose.

I'll add this card to my Series-2 ATC mix. Only three cards left before it's complete, which means I feel a print giveaway coming on. Stay tuned!

PS: Daredevil's eyes should NOT be white. Blast! I'll have to fix that before I make prints.

Posted via email from The Parker Brand Picture Post!

"A Man Named Clint" A Parker Brand Sable Brush & Ink Sketch

2010-06-03T21:21:00.005-05:00

If you follow this blog, then you may remember me mentioning the art show that I'll be a part of titled "The Drawing Board." This show will feature three Southwest Louisiana artists, and will be made up of our quick sketches, with each artist turning three of their sketches into more developed, finished pieces. The goal is to try to spend 15 to 30 minutes on each sketch.

One of the subjects requested for the art show is "American Heroes." I thought it would be fun to produce some really quick Sable brush & ink sketches of American movie cowboys (of which I am a tremendous fan) then choose one of the series to develop further.

I sketched out the first of this set tonight on a piece of 8.5x11 Bristol. I spent right at 20 minutes on it, which makes this exactly what this particular art show is calling for. You may recognize him. If you don't then I'm almost 100% certain that you won't get into heaven.

SIDE NOTE: It was nice to draw something besides super heroes.

Posted via email from The Parker Brand Picture Post!

"Last Lantern" A Parker Brand ATC Sketch

2010-06-03T15:57:00.003-05:00

Took a real short lunch break today, and decided to do a quick ATC sketch of Kyle Rayner a.k.a. Green Lantern. I titled this "Last Lantern" because there was a time when Kyle actually was the last Green Lantern. Things are certainly different now; we've got a full-on Green Lantern Corp again, plus lantern for every color in the Roy G. Biv spectrum. Still, I followed Kyle's adventures from the day he got the ring, until now. I don't give a damn what folks think of Hal Jordan... Kyle is still the greatest Lantern of them all.

Posted via email from The Parker Brand Picture Post!

"Duo-Kal" A Parker Brand ATC Sketch

2010-06-03T11:22:00.003-05:00

I bought a new Micron pen last week, and I wanted to give a test-run to see how I liked it. I figured Superman was as good a subject as any. I'm not gonna lie, though; I'm not too crazy about this pen. I don't like the way it reacts to the Strathmore, plus I prefer to ink with a brush. There just isn't any weight to the line. I couldn't find my red Copic, so I decided to do a simple duo-tone color job. Anyway, for better or worse, here it is... Kal-El. I suppose this will get added to the sixteen piece ATC set I'm working on. I've got 6 cards left to create in the set. Once it' complete I'm going to be holding a big giveaway of the Series-1 and Series - 2 prints-32 cards in all - so keep your eyes peeled for that update.

Posted via email from Parker Brand Posts Pictures (and other stuff, too)!

Anybody Like Thumbnails In Their Gumbo?

2010-06-02T12:58:00.001-05:00

It was about this time last year that I decided to start drawing and sketching again, after a 10+ year hiatus from the hobby (more on that here). Not longer after that, I drew these five monsters for a local art show at the Henning Cultural Center, titled "Chaos Theory."

I felt that I drew these creatures in a very specific way, and since that time I haven't taken the opportunity to revisit that style on any of my drawings.

This year, I was one of three men asked to be a part of another local art show at the Henning Cultural Center, titled "The Drawing Board." This time we were asked to provide a variety of very quick sketches and drawings, then work on three pieces that we would develop further into finished pieces.

One of the subjects is "Local Flavor." My concept for this Southwest Louisiana piece is actually based on a local icon called "Gumbeaux Gator," but I plan to re-imagine Gumbeaux, then draw him in the style of the monsters I created last year.

Gumbeaux was created years ago by a local artist, and since then I've been asked to draw him on a number of occasions for the Southwest Louisiana Convention and Visitors Bureau. I've done my best each time to emulate the style of the original artist (Marty Myers), but each time I've received criticisms that my Gumbeaux Gator looked to "mean" in the face, where Marty's Gumbeaux Gator was playful and fun.

I've decided to take those criticisms and use them as the inspiration for my re-imagining of Gumbeaux. What would a talking, dancing, Louisiana gator really look like if he were to stand up-right, play music, and wear human clothes? Certainly, there have been many toon gators out there, so I'm not really re-inventing the wheel here. I'm just taking my specific style of creature creation, and applying it to a local pop-culture icon... and making him look mean.

As required by the gallery, here is the thumbnail sketch of my initial "real" Gumbeaux Gator concept, side-by-side with the recent ink drawing I did for the 2010 Washington Mardi Gras t-shirt design.

I plan to start the finished piece sometime this week. I'll post it once it's complete. I think it's going to be a really fun drawing to work on, and I'm pretty excited to be revisiting my monster style of illustrating. I hope you'll follow along for the creative process.

"Mockingbird" A Parker Brand ATC Sketch

2010-06-01T22:23:00.002-05:00

Tomorrow the new "Hawkeye and Mockingbird" comic series is coming out. I'm actually pretty stoked about this. I've been a fan of this husband and wife team since I was in Jr. High. Clint Barton is a great character, and really has what it takes to play the lead for an Avengers team. I'm glad his wife, Mockingbird, is back in the picture... and I really dig her new uniform. I guess that's why I did this little ATC sketch of her. Here's hoping that the book turns out to be great.

Posted via email from So, what does Oran Parker post?

"Starfire" A Parker Brand ATC Sketch

2010-05-31T21:06:00.002-05:00

Last week I had a contest to give away a "Firestar" sketch print. A couple of times when I was posting about the contest, I flipped the character name to "Starfire," a completely different character. Honest mistake, I suppose, but it got me thinking that I'd like to do an ATC for the orange skinned, green eyed, long haired beauty. I'm pretty happy with the way this card turned out. I wanted her to look like the classic George Perez version from the Titans of the eighties. I'd hate to draw her any other way. By the way, what was up with Starfire's weird, long "flight" hair? I don't know that I ever really got that.

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"Greystoke" A Parker Brand ATC Sketch

2010-05-30T21:19:00.002-05:00

Wrapped up the night with a real quick ATC sketch of Tarzan. Guess seeing all those Comic Twart guys recent sketches of the ape man planted the seed. I'm off to slumber. Talk to you cats in the A.M.

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An Ink And Water Color Sketch. "Super" In Name Only.

2010-05-29T21:38:00.001-05:00

I've never used water colors before, but I went to Hobby Lobby with the family this afternoon and a cheap set of water color paints caught my eye. I experimented with an India Ink wash last week, so I kind of figured that this might be something like that. I wanted to start with something simple, so I picked "Supergirl."

Like most of the comic characters I do, I started with a quick pencil sketch first...

Then I moved on to the inks...

Added the India Ink wash...

And finally tried my hand with the water color...

For a first try, I'm pretty pleased. It's definitely like trying to control chaos, but I think that I could learn to like working in water color. If it anything, it was nice to do something different. I hope you folks dig it.

The Pen "Stroke" of "Death" (A Wind-Down Sketch)

2010-05-28T15:58:00.003-05:00

Well, I started my day sketching out one of my favorite characters... Deathlok, and that kind of inspired me to end my day with another fave character... Deathstroke! Even when I was a little kid, I thought it would be cool to see these two characters in some sort of team-up... or just to have them in a pin-up together (hmmm... maybe that should be a project for me). Anyway, this sketch-card will also go into my Series 2 set that I'm building up. A big "thank you" to everyone who participated in the "Firestar" contest this week. Make sure you watch the Parker Brand Way next week! More artsy/sketchy contests to come! Have a great weekend.

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Got A "Lok" On My Warm-Up Sketch

2010-05-28T10:52:00.001-05:00

I just finished reading the "Deathlok" mini-series and man was it good. I've always thought the character looked cool as hell, but I never knew his origin story. I enjoyed the story and art quite a bit. I enjoyed it so much that I thought I'd crank out this quick warm-up sketch card this morning, featuring old D-Lok himself! This will definitely be one of the 16 cards that will end up in my Series-2 sketchcard set. Thanks for popping in! Hope you guys have a great weekend! And don't forget... my "Firestar" sketch print giveaway ends today at 3pm CST, so pop over and leave a comment to enter the contest.

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