A NICE SET SINGAPORE - JUDGES CHOICE

Top 4 Judges Choice from a selection of 132 artists from Singapore, Australia and around the world.

Big Up to all our judges who took time out from their busy schedule to make the selection.

THE AWE50ME JUDGES
Steve Elrick (BBH-ASIAPAC)
Sam Cassels (SAATCHI, JP)
Richard McCabe (PUBLICIS, SG)
Chris Lee (ASYLUM, SG)
Alexandre Olmedo (EYECA.COM)
Chris Ng (IDN)
Jeremy Hollister (PLUS ET PLUS, NY)
Scott Mcclelland (SUPERMARKART, AU)
Jeff Staple (STAPLE DESIGN, NY)

THE AWE50ME TROPHY


THE AWE50ME WINNERS

















VIEW & BUY CUSTOMIZED SLIPMAT ARTWORKS HERE: THE DOPE SHOP

POP-UP EXHIBITION - A NICE SET SINGAPORE

POSTER DESIGN: Sharim Gubbels - Crossville

CONTACT ARTISTS: AWE5OME

A NICE SET - Singapore

...WHAT IN THE WORLD IS A SLIPMAT?

A slipmat is a circular piece of slippery cloth or synthetic materials disk jockeys place on the turntable platter instead of the traditional rubber mat.

Unlike the rubber mat which is made to keep hold the record firmly in sync with the rotating platter, slipmats are designed to slip on the platter, allowing the DJ to manipulate a record on a turntable while the platter continues to rotate underneath. This is useful for holding a record still for slip-cueing, making minute adjustments during beatmatching and mixing and pulling the record back and forth for scratching....

...THE EXHIBITION

..99 artists from Singapore & around the world get together to design one of a kind sets of slip mats for a movable exhibition and book which explores the way visual art and music hang together...

..3 shows of 33 different artists each in 3 different venues with performances by 3 of the hottest Australian DJs on the face of this earth..

..insiders tell DOPE that this show also introduces a new mobile art space that provides artists & curators with a new avenue to exhibit their work. we can't wait to see what that looks like!

...THE TURNTABLISTS

..Featuring LIVE performances by 3 time Australia DMC Champion - DJ PERPLEX, Victorian DMC Title Holder - DJ B.TWO & Slap and Dash People's Choice, DJ MUGEN. Wow! Just check out the Perplex video for a piece of the coming action.

EVENT:
A NICE SET SINGAPORE

DATES & VENUES:
Friday, 15 May 09 (MIMOLETTE)- DJ PERPLEX

Friday, 22 May 09 (OVER EASY)- DJ B.TWO

Friday, 29 May 09 (HACIENDA)- DJ MUGEN

TIME:
10pm and beyond for all exhibition dates

SUBMIT YOUR SLIPMAT DESIGNS HERE: THE DOPE SHOP


PREVIEW ALL THE DESIGNS & VOTE FOR YOUR FAVORITE SINGAPORE ARTIST HERE: THE DOPE SHOP


LISTEN / DOWNLOAD A NICE SET DJS HERE: DJ PERPLEX / DJ B.TWO / DJ MUGEN

GET ON THE VIP LIST: DOPE GUEST LIST


BROUGHT TO YOU BY: AWE50ME /PLUS ET PLUS /THE REED SPACE / IdN

MOUSTACHE IS DOPE! POSTER DESIGN - MOJOKO

DESIGN: Steve Lawler (aka MOJOKO)

POSTER: MOUSTACHE IS DOPE!






CONTACT ARTISTS: AWE5OME

LINKS: MOJOKO

MELEE PUNKS - Singapore

Anti- Social social behavior is the rebel yell of youth culture today. Punk Confucianism in a technocratic society where everything is a melee of complementary contradictions. Confused? Great and BTW please bring your own music and photographer.

In their own words - Like a monster from the deep, MELEE PUNKS - your mother’s maddest nightmare. High cellophane drugged out electro tech pop punk electronic disco served in polystyrene bio-degradable cups brought to you courtesy of a bunch of punks who like to mix and make and break and make again.

TELL US A BIT ABOUT YOURSELF & THE JOURNEY THAT BROUGHT YOU TO WHERE YOU ARE NOW?
MELEE PUNKS, the idea came about over lunch one fine afternoon. We’ve always been talking about it so I guess it was about time we get into action. Or maybe it was just the sake…

TELL US WHAT’S HOT IN YOUR SCENE RIGHT NOW AND WHAT ARE YOU DOING TO BE A PART OF IT?
Where we’re based, Singapore is fast becoming the Monte Carlo of Asia with people from all over the world. The parties will only get trendier and more vibrant. We are doing our part by trying our best to produce and play good quality music for everyone who or might love us.

TELL US WHAT KIND OF CROWD LIKES YOUR MUSIC. WHAT’S THEIR STYLE, THEIR CLUBBING ATTITUDE & THE VIBE THEY ENJOY?
Definitely the younger crowd, they come all dressed up for a good time, party hard and go home looking forward to the next one.

WHAT ARE YOUR FUTURE PLANS?
Nothing really planned so far except that we’ll be sorting out some sample merchandise for future parties before we do an online release. And it was great fun working with Eden Cai, our favorite photographer. We got some fantastic shots that we’ll be releasing soon too. Apart from all that, we’re working on some remixes and original material at the moment.

WHAT DOES MUSIC MEAN TO YOU & HOW DOES IT INFLUENCE YOUR LIFE?
Music gives you a soul, it gives you THE reason to live.

PLEASE SHARE SOME WORDS OF WISDOM WITH US?
As Charlie says, “The Mind Grows By What It Feeds On.”







CONTACT ARTISTS: AWE5OME

LISTEN / DOWNLOAD / MELEE PUNKS: www.meleepunks.com

SINGAPORE EATS & SHOPS RECOMMENDED BY MELEE PUNKS: DOPE.SG

FOULWORKS INDEPENDENT MOVEMENT - KL

FOULWORKS INDEPENDENT MOVEMENT is a deeply underground group who are just surfacing in clubs across Malaysia and Singapore. Using home-made effects keyboards in their DJ sets, they produce an extremely infectious and unique sound that is gathering online and club momentum. With a growing fan base of about 2,000, the movement characterizes youth in the night life scene today - A carefree attitude sprinkled with a dash of punk and a technical know-how with lego-style DIY equipment. Driven to succeed no matter what, they have a keen understanding of community, the value of fans and the effects of their music on people.

This is how they see themselves in their own words:

Electropop, New Wave, Italo Disco meets post 70's Westwood and Warhol fashion with a dash of Kraftwerk-ianism and early-80's New York Downtown dystopian avant-garde!



TELL US ABOUT YOURSELF, WHY YOU LOVE WHAT YOU DO & WHAT INSPIRES YOU TO DO IT?
Both of us are the combination of a perfectionist & an idealist. Sweet isn’t sweet without sour. Both characteristic defines the Movement & it’s the nucleus of our style & sound. The chemistry between this two set of minds bind us together.

Being able to share what we like to the people on the dancefloor is the most essential thing to us as an act. Being on stage is not cool at all, the coolest thing is to show people what you are good at as you share with them.

We obtained our inspiration from seeing top figures turning the floor upside down & reaching their dream. This urges us to excel faster. Our passion is the fuel of our actions & the resistance to the obstacles which slow us down!

E = mc2 is a true wonder of Einstein passion. Ideas should be materialize, if not it’s just an idea. We have so many things to do, a short period of time to live. Wish a day has 48 hours. Foulworks is racing against time.

TELL US ABOUT THE SCENE YOU ARE IN RIGHT NOW. WHAT’S HAPPENING. WHO’S GIVING IT A JOLT. HOW DOES WHAT YOU DO FIT IN?
Hmmmm… The current scene over here is not that overwhelming. What the pioneers are doing caters for a niche group only. Twilight Action Girls is spearheading the current alternative scene. The market is so small for what we are into as everyone trying hard to make their mark in the same place.

Nothing is impossible. We fit in as an outcast most probably due to our style & sound. The outcast classification on us motivates us to pump harder &
march forward aggressively .

In spite of this, both of us are really contented with what we have done since we manage to leave a mark in the local scene in under 12 months.



TELL US ABOUT THE KIND OF FAN WHAT YOU DO ATTRACTS?
Indeed, building an army of fans is hard. We trust in our style & sound. The most vital issue is to vanquish the dogmatic ethics & tearing down the wall of elitism . We call it sound communism. This Holy effort can't be achieve by us alone.

EVERY GENERATION HAS A LOOK, WHAT ARE YOUR FRIENDS GETTING IN TO?
Nu Rave is the KING! Like the group Darkness, dress crap! Fashion is a combination of everything. Like dance music, it's universal. You can see hip hoppers wearing an xtra large tees with a skinny jeans.

Both of us were once fashion victim Now we are the casualties of casual wear! Jeez…that hurts.

We prefer “ OBEY “- THE DESIGN & PROPAGANDA is meaningful.

WHAT WILL THE FUTURE HOLD FOR YOU & YOUR SCENE?
The Tarots card reader says that: we-the minor arcanas will be featured in megalomania events. Some critique will say we are thinking to big or maybe have a too vivid imagination. We see that as a vision.

SSSSShhhhhhh…we have the intention to venture back into production.

HOW DO YOU MARKET YOUR MUSIC?
We started like every freshie, “ Mixtapes.”

Mixtape is the best way to spread the sound. It represents the style & personality. We're not about setting trends, we are just here to do what we like!



CONTACT ARTISTS: AWE5OME

LISTEN / DOWNLOAD / FOULWORKS MIXES & REVIEWS: RIGHTCLICKA

KL EATS & SHOPS RECOMMENDED BY FOULWORKS: DOPE.SG

DEAD CELEBRITY PARTY TEE SHIRT DESIGN - ZXEROKOOL

DESIGN: Jonathan Leong (aka ZXEROKOOL)

TEE SHIRT: DEAD CELEBRITY PARTY














CONTACT ARTISTS: AWE5OME

LINKS: ZXEROKOOL

SEAN LEE - Singapore

WHY PHOTOGRAPHY. WHAT WERE THE CHOICES YOU MADE THAT LEAD YOU DOWN THIS ROAD?
Art has always been an interest of mine and I've always been inspired by my father who dabbles in Chinese painting. However, the structure of Singaporean education never permitted me the chance to explore this avenue, eventually culminating in my making some pretty unorthodox decisions when I came to a major crossroads in my life: instead of taking the traditional path and entering university, I took up a photography workshop instead. And that's when my affair with the lens really started to take-off.

WHAT ARE YOU WORKING ON NOW THAT'S TURNING YOU ON?
I've been working with my alter ego, a transsexual named Shauna, creating a series of photographs that chronicle her daily existence. At the same time, as I'm taking pictures of myself as someone else, the subtlety of the series lies in the fact that I'm also chronicling the experience of being her. I am both behind the lens and in front of the lens, resulting in something that is at once both theatrical and deeply personal. I have to admit that it gets pretty confusing sometimes, but, right now, Shauna is one of the most important persons in my life.

WHAT'S YOUR SCENE AND WHAT ARE YOU DOING TO GIVE IT A JOLT?
Some galleries have expressed interest in my work, and I was recently represented by a gallery in Hong Kong. Tableau photography is certainly beginning to make waves in the sphere of photography, and I suspect that this would largely be because galleries, as well as art patrons, find this form of expression to be a refreshing and welcome change that deviates from the usual.

HOW DOES PHOTOGRAPHY INSPIRE YOU?
Photography gives me the opportunity to be somebody else, allowing me to do things I've always been afraid to do. As I'm in absolute control of both the subject and the eventual result, restrictions do not exist for me. The boundaries that permeate my everyday life are pushed to the extremes in my photography.



DESCRIBE YOUR GENERATION.
My generation is one that does not enjoy being bound by rules: we are constantly challenging traditional structures with new and exciting developments in art, fashion and music. Interestingly enough, however, we also find comfort in being identifiable by our brand of prescribed unconventionality. I suppose classification is unavoidable, even amongst those who appear to struggle against them.

WHAT BRANDS DO YOU ADMIRE AND WHO WOULD YOU LIKE TO WORK WITH?
Any of the major sports brands. The photography that is associated with them is always vivacious and alive. Much like my own work, these images ooze a perpetual dynamism, representing a moment that hints at the dichotomy of being both pre-planned and spontaneous.

HOW DO YOU PROMOTE YOURSELF?
Largely by word of mouth and involvement in large-scale photography festivals in and outside of Asia, such as the Singapore International Photography Festival and the Ang Kor Photography Festival.

WHAT'S THE FUTURE OF PHOTOGRAPHY?
I believe that the future of photography in Asia is reflected by the region's changing landscapes: just as emerging Asian cities, such as Shanghai and Bangkok, are constantly modernizing their cityscapes and introducing elements that mirror what the future of architecture and modes of living will probably be like, photographers, too, will push the boundaries and bring Asian photography to a whole new level that continues to embrace that unique Asian flavor, but infuses it with a generous dosage of contemporary awareness.

CONTACT ARTISTS: AWE5OME

WEBSITE: METHOD PHOTOGRAPHY

IKUMA - Singapore

Using the most ghetto-est equipment such as retro computers and game consoles from the 80s like Amigas and Gameboys that were discarded and scavenged from pawnshops and thieves' markets. Ikuma represents a new breed of gamer / music producers - The 8Bit Otaku.

Come December 2008, Ikuma heads out to play at Blip Festival New York, a four-day international festival showcasing nearly 40 musicians and visual artists occupying the international low-res cutting edge. Archaic game and home computer hardware is recast into the unlikely role of musical instrument and motion graphics workstation.

Highlighting the chip music phenomenon and its related disciplines, the festival aims to showcase emerging creative niches involving the use of legacy video game & home computer hardware as modern artistic instrumentation. Devices such as the Nintendo Entertainment System, Commodore 64, Atari ST, Nintendo Game Boy and others are re-purposed into the service of original, low-res, high-impact electronic music and visuals — sidestepping game culture and instead exploring the technology's untapped potential and distinctive intrinsic character.



CAN YOU PLEASE GIVE US A BRIEF HISTORY OF YOU.
I was part of a warez/software cracking group until I was given a cease and desist order , then I went to university here in Singapore, where in my free time I produced all kinds of electronic , dance and jazz music on any equipment I could get my hands on, including hacked Nintendo consoles, vintage analog synthesizers, collaborating and recording with bass players , singers etc.. All my work is scattered all over under different aliases (for different genres) on many different labels and outlets.

TELL US ABOUT THE SCENE YOU ARE IN RIGHT NOW. WHAT'S HAPPENING. WHO'S GIVING IT A JOLT. HOW DOES WHAT YOU DO FIT IN.
The 8bit music scene is only around as cheap nostalgia , filling the voids of people who are reliving their childhoods when they played Contra, Sensible Soccer and Streetfighter without a care in the world. The worlds best videogame musician is Jake 'Virt' Kaufman from the USA, whose soundtrack for the game "M&M's Minis Madness" on the Game Boy Color is an undisputed masterpiece of the genre.



TELL US ABOUT YOUR WORK, THE PEOPLE YOU MEET AND HOW THIS INSPIRES YOU.
It is difficult as most of the people who I meet can't seem to understand how music is composed on a Game Boy, even after hours of explaining. That itself is pretty inspiring.

WHAT WILL THE FUTURE HOLD FOR YOU & YOUR SCENE.
The 8bit music scene will diminish in popularity very soon and very fast, and will be left to the hardcore otakus , because once the novelty of "omg, game boy music!" fades, who else will dream about 80s japanese RPG game music in their beauty sleep?

WHAT BRANDS DO YOU ADMIRE AND WHO WOULD YOU LIKE TO WORK WITH. WHY?.
I would like to work with NTT DoCoMo, Japanese Telecom and Kanye West's various brands. That dude has it all.







CONTACT ARTISTS: AWE5OME

DOWNLOAD MUSIC: IKUMA 8BITS

BLIP FESTIVAL 2008: ALL THE BLIPS!

AWE50ME AT PSFK ASIA CONFERENCE - Singapore

As part of PSFK's 1st Asian Conference and the Singapore Showcase, AWE50ME profiled 10 of the most exciting members of the new emerging 'Creator Class' of multi-skilled talents and their ambitions. These young creatives have innovatively redefined their genres in New Media Design, Mutant-Creativity, Recyclism, Cross-Over Art, 8-Bit Music Producing and Photo-Documentary Making.

Featuring interviews and works by Mutantstyle, Mojoko, Ikuma, Recyclofashion, Antz, Imaginary Friends Studio, Sean Lee, Joel Yuen, Ben Quek and Ee Shaun.

AWE50ME offers an insightful slice into each member of this group as they inspire us not only with their creativity and authenticity, but by their power of connectivity with their community.

How does the world establish a relationship with this new generation as they continue to grow and self-aggregate to become the pop culture of tomorrow?

AWE50ME is a creative community space where unique individuals share their vision with each other. It is an active black book of exciting people across Asia living their passion and creating the scene around Art, Design, Music, Photography, Fashion, Video, Events and Popular Lifestyle Culture. Our network profiles their personalities, their work and their communities.













The AWE50ME Singapore Showcase was created, designed, written and produced by the AWE50ME Network.

CONTACT ARTISTS: AWE5OME

DOWNLOAD: AWE50ME BOOKLET PDF

YOICHI SHIBA - Japan

FEUN was started in 1996 by DJ Shiba aka Yoichi Shiba, in Tokyo but developed in Auckland, NZ where he played for numerous clubs while hosting his weekly radio shows and his own residencies. Meanwhile in East London, 33khz collective was busy promoting a string of underground nights, which later evolved into some crazy Shoreditch raves and busy one-off shows in Turnmills, 333 and Plastic People. In 2005, 33khz teamed up with DJ Shiba’s FEUN following their relocation to London and begun a number of small gigs that effectively sealed the fate of FEUN:33KHZ in the underground scene.




TELL US ABOUT YOURSELF, WHY YOU LOVE WHAT YOU DO & WHAT INSPIRES YOU TO DO IT.
My name is Yoichi Shiba. I am the originator of the FEUN (Far East Underground Network).

When I first DJed overseas in NZ, it made me feel very strongly that dance music is a special language beyond standard linguistic barriers. The dance floor is where people from completely different backgrounds can easily communicate through music. Creating such borderless environments by playing good music is the force behind what I do.

WHAT’S HOT ON YOUR PLATE MATE?
Production for a semi-professional singer in Japan. I decided to get involved in the project when I first listened to one of her demo tracks and it was very inspiring for me so I had worked on a couple of different versions of that track. A single has been released in July and we are currently promoting the ep.





WHAT DO YOU DIG?
I dig Japanese animations and architecture in Berlin.

TELL US ABOUT THE SCENE YOU ARE IN RIGHT NOW. WHAT’S HAPPENING?
Minimal / techno and ambient. Ricardo Villalobos and Luciano for minimal and techno. Robert Fripp and Brian Eno for ambient. I have been inspired by their tracks and live sets and that inspiration gives me the direction for my works.

TELL US ABOUT THE KIND OF CROWD YOU ATTRACT. WHAT’S THE VIBE?
Many truly committed party animals and tons of well informed artists as well as people who understand the way to feel music and seriously enjoy it. The vibes gets transmitted to the booth and we really do put a lot into our sets.






TELL US WHAT YOU SEE AROUND YOU.
The people in London are extremely well informed about music. In Japan, people really know what they are talking about when it comes to new gadgets like mobiles and such. As for fashion and hair styles, most of my friend are individualists rather than fashionistas. For DJing, a lot of my fellow DJs are converting to CD rather than sticking to vinyl. It’s no doubt easier when traveling around but I personally prefer to stick to using vinyls only.

WHAT DO YOU NEED IN LIFE?
Free unlimited luggage on flights, fully acoustic proofed studio, VIP passes to all the clubs on the planet... Beside these, lets hope for increasingly reliable resources and a continuously thriving underground music scene all over!

CONTACT ARTISTS: AWE5OME

PODCAST: FEUN:33KHZ MUSIC

BLOG: FEUN:33KHZ BLOG

FLEE CIRCUS - Singapore

TELL US ABOUT YOURSELF AND WHAT YOU'VE BEEN UP TO.
Fleecircus is an illustration unit based in Singapore. After graduating, it began experimenting and developing its own illustration style. Fleecircus illustrations are combination of detail vector based drawings and back-to-basics pencil sketches.

Between 2000 to 2007, Fleecircus illustrations had been commissioned by MTV-Asia, L’Oreal, Pictoplasma(Berlin), Zouk(Singapore), Funkstörung (Germany), Anna Sui & LEVIS.

Fleecircus collaboration includes Singapore Design Festival’s 20/20, works were showcased in Singapore and London Design Festival, My Favourite Moleskine Exhibition which toured Hong Kong, Singapore and China. Fleecircus just completed her stint as creative consultant for the Singapore Peranakan Museum. In July 2007, Fleecircus was invited to create a limited edition case for L’Oreal make up to raise awareness for Action For Aids campaign.

WHAT PROJECTS ARE YOU EXCITED ABOUT NOW.
The possibility of any projects that requires illustration excites me.

I am especially psyched about the future direction of Organisation of Illustrators Council (O.I.C). O.I.C was formed 2 years ago for illustrators working in Singapore to share experiences and trade techniques.





TELL US ABOUT YOUR WORK, THE PEOPLE YOU MEET AND HOW THIS INSPIRES YOU.
I draw and draw and draw… (X infinity)

I am very fortunate to be in a close circle of like minded local creative talents who unselfishly share info and part their wisdom in this trade. The more I learn from them the more humble I become.

WHAT ARE YOUR CIRCLE OF FRIENDS GETTING INTO?
I see we are experiencing the “golden age” of illustration and I hope this will stay for a long time. I guess what me and my friends are really interested in now, are to “discover” more creative talents and hope to raise the standard of local illustrators.



WHAT ARE YOUR HOPES FOR THE NEAR FUTURE?
I hope in the very near future, I will be able to get by with my personal projects. Meaning painting more and contributing my works on different platforms (lifestyle, fashion products etc).

WHAT BRANDS DO YOU ADMIRE AND WHO WOULD YOU LIKE TO WORK WITH?
Any brands/company who dares to challenge themselves to break the mold get my support.

THINGS YOU LIKE IN PLACES YOU LOVE.
I love nature, old quarries in Pulau Ubin, National Museum Of Nature and Science at Tokyo Ueno. The Museum of Modern Art (MoMa). Bookstores like Kinokuniya. Jingumae, Shibuya-ku; also affectionately known as “Cat Street” where furniture shop like hhstyle is based.

I enjoy going to places where modern ideas couple with nostalgia. And places/objects are design to work with/for nature. Things like these make me have initiative to create.



CONTACT ARTISTS: AWE5OME

WEBSITE: FLEE CIRCUS

BLOG: ORGANISATION of ILLUSTRATORS COUNCIL

PEARLIN SIOW - Singapore

WHY WRITING. WHAT WERE THE CHOICES YOU MADE THAT LED YOU DOWN THIS ROAD?
I have a love affair with words and grew up with my nose buried in between pages and my head lost in the fantasy world of make-believe. Add to that mix, a fertile imagination and a writer was born.

I did a work attachment stint with Singapore Press Holdings (SPH) during my mass communication study days, and was offered a job as a journalist upon graduation. Greener pastures beckoned and I left SPH after three years to dally with technology, stretch myself with Pilates and have now returned to my first love, writing.

TELL US ABOUT YOUR BOOK AND THE PEOPLE YOU’VE MET WHILE DOING IT.
Boss of Me! was started out of selfish reasons. I’ve always been a big fan of biographies and realise that there are none on our local talents so I decided to round up 20 outstanding individuals in different fields and tell their amazing stories.

Doing the book let me delve into the psyche of some of Singapore’s most successful entrepreneurs, like Zouk founder, Lincoln Cheng, who validated my belief that you can make tonnes of money while having fun, and Stamford Tyre’s head honcho, Mr Wee Kok Wah, who overcame cancer twice to steer his business to the top.

Lessons taken away:

1. Successful people are very generous, not in the material sense but in terms of time and help. My interviewees willingly endorsed my book and took time out of their busy schedules to share their life stories.

2. Luck is preparation combined with opportunity. My interviewees look like they lead blessed lives but beneath their success lies years of determination, hard work and grit.

3. Impossible is possible - as long as you genuinely love what you do and go about doing it with your own set of rules.

WHAT’S YOUR SCENE AND WHAT ARE YOU DOING TO GIVE IT A JOLT?
I'm a big believer of self-help. Some people see that as a dirty word but to me it simply means life long learning, and I want to write motivational books about business that will inspire people.

Success, passion and entrepreneurialism – I intend to make these buzzwords relatable to everyone by unearthing fine examples of people who have followed their dreams as role models for my readers.

WHAT’S IT LIKE BEING A WRITER IN ASIA?
Writing in Asia is still rather infantile, compared to the US. Singapore has been busy courting authors and illustrators in recent months. The process started back in 2003 with the establishment of the Media Development Authority (MDA), heralding a new page in Singapore's Media 21 vision of a global media city. However, given the emphasis on academic and industry excellence in this rather straitlaced society, plenty needs to be done to unleash our creativity and hidden talents.



WHAT DO YOU HOPE TO ACHIEVE?
I’m all about short-term goals and my immediate plan is to finish all work by end of this year and take the whole of next year off to travel, party around the world and sit around, contemplating my belly button lint…that is, until the next money-making idea hits me square on my head.

HOW DO YOU PROMOTE YOURSELF?
Mark Bennett, a self-published author who sold five million books to companies, says that selling books in mass quantities is the way to go. I agree with him that distributing to the book stores and waiting for individuals to buy your books is pittance. The big moolah is to go direct to the companies.

I am following his example and have taken the first steps by offering to contribute articles to newsletters of business associations which go out to thousands of corporate eyeballs, and am in discussions with trainers of entrepreneurialism to promote my book.

WHAT’S THE FUTURE OF WRITING IN ASIA?
Digital book publishing or E-books are fast catching on for authors who want to enjoy the ease and economy of putting their content on computer display rather than the messy, expensive approach of printing on paper. It can be a huge task to get your book published by adhering to traditional methods and thousands of manuscripts are rejected every day by traditional publishers. The costs involved in traditional publishing methods are comparatively high that’s why publishers are very selective.
Electronic publishing has removed much of the cost and risk involved in print publishing. Since the cost of electronic publishing is significantly low, an author can expect a higher income from the sale of an E-book ($$). Publishers are also catching on with a select few offering E-publishing services for budding authors.

DESCRIBE YOUR GENERATION IN REFERENCE TO YOUR BOOK.
My peers are getting shifty in their jobs and itching to be vagabonders and have mini-retirements. The 4-Hour Workweek by Timothy Ferriss exemplifies their desired lifestyles.

Entrepreneurialism is alive and kicking and readers of Boss of Me! have told me that my stories have motivated them to keep on truckin’ or start their business ventures. All heartening stuff!

WHAT’S NEXT FOR YOU?
A chronic workaholic, I am midway through my second book which promises to deliver a swift kick to the butt and teach you how to make money while you sleep! Goodbye rat race, hello financial freedom!

Walking the talk, I am carving a lucrative passive income pie for myself by publishing, together with my sister, an e-book on post-pregnancy diet and fitness www.exercisepostpregnancy.com, which is going on sale next month. Working on the e-book and learning how Internet marketing works has been a trip and I am now the proud possessor of a new lingo filled with intriguing words like SEO, PPC, Autoresponders, affiliates and Google Adwords.



CONTACT ARTISTS: AWE5OME

BLOG: BOSS OF ME SINGAPORE

LINZ - Singapore

CAN YOU PLEASE GIVE US A BRIEF HISTORY OF YOU.
2280 days ago: I worked 24/7 upon graduation thinking that meeting deadline was what design is all about.

1280 days ago: An unplanned journey to Beijing changed my life - I began to take things slowly and appreciate the little pleasures that come by.

730 days ago: Started creating my first personal project – based on my travels to the Chinese capital. It took me quite a long while as work has taken up most of my time.

180 days ago: “A Little Beijing – your niche travel guide” was finally published & launched with an exhibition. It’s a milestone as I turned 25.

14 days ago: This niche travel guide has gotten the Red Dot Communication Design award. =)







WHAT'S HAPPENING WITH YOUR SCENE AND WHO DO YOU ADMIRE?
I’m somewhat stuck in a messy scene of never ending work. Every day I enter this scene in search of meaning and exit.

Artists/designers who dive into what they have passion for. I totally admire their spirit & courage!

TELL US ABOUT YOUR TRAVELS, THE PEOPLE YOU MEET AND HOW THIS INSPIRES YOU. HOW DOES IT DIFFER FROM WHERE YOU ARE NOW?
My travels are often spontaneous. Though I’ve made notes on places that I want to go, I usually end up at somewhere new. It’s great pleasure chancing upon new finds & people.

I’ve met European & Americans who have made China their new home – not only speaking the language but also learning the history and culture. Such crossover is indeed inspiring to see. So are the determined local Chinese who strove for success. I can still remember the enthusiasm in the students at the Beijing Film Academy – trying out new ways to set the mood, capture the moment… or simply, tell a story. Their true passion moved me.

And then in Australia, I got to know this Singaporean couple who expressed their reluctance in returning to work in Singapore. They’ve become so used to the work-life-balance tempo – turning up (at work) at 10am and getting ready for drinks by 5pm. During the weekends, they drive off to the outskirts to catch the sea breeze and perhaps, the sunset.

I guess there are many formulas to live life and in Singapore, it’s always work before anything else. I’m trying to break away from this.







TELL US WHAT YOU SEE AROUND YOU. WHAT ARE YOUR FRIENDS GETTING IN TO. WHAT ARE YOU OBSERVATIONS WHEN YOU TRAVEL?
My pretty colleagues are totally into H&M and ZARA. Recently, Internet Spree shopping is IN too. O ya, and accessories are what make every look complete. I’m the fuss-free type, especially when I’m traveling. Keeping low profile is the key to safety too. I once met this guy from San Francisco in a café - he was devastated that his camera was snatched - for the 2nd time! I wondered why he hadn’t learn to be discreet!

WHAT WILL THE FUTURE HOLD FOR YOU?
My crystal ball visualizes my future in book making but my whiskey glass insists that I’ll be a berry picker in England during harvest.



THINGS YOU LIKE IN PLACES YOU LOVE. TELL US MORE ABOUT YOUR TRAVELS AND THE ART + DESIGN YOU ENCOUNTER.

CITIES: the last city I’ve been to was Shanghai - was there for the 100% Design exhibition. It’s a pity that the trip had to be a really short one. There’s so much the city is offering – the evolution and energy made me feel rather backward!

RESTUARANTS: YERING STATION in the Yarra Valley, Melbourne. 6 years ago I was on a business trip to locate wineries for wine tasting and this was my favorite – a glasshouse restaurant in the middle of the suburban landscape with sculpture space both indoors and outdoors.

SHOPS: Quaint little shops Gertrude Street – Melbourne. Endless surprises along the way!

BARS: LUSH in Wu Dao Kou, Beijing. Café by day; bar by night – with a different theme each night. Lots of ideas exchanged in this space frequented by both foreigners and locals.

HOTELS: I think I’m out most of the time! I just need a comfy bed to fall back on. Haa..



CONTACT ARTISTS: AWE5OME

LINKS: IMPROMPTU TRAVEL

BLOG: A LITTLE BEIJING

BEN QWEK - Singapore

GIVE US A BRIEF HISTORY OF YOU.
I grew up in a cosmopolitan Singapore, influences are diverse and cultures converge. Aspiring to be a multi disciplinary artist, I'm always striving to create distinctive visuals that fuses various influences and design communication. I'm a crossover artist from the world of graphic design and street art. I straddle between mainstream illustration and adding a street edge to my art.

WHAT PROJECTS ARE YOU EXCITED ABOUT NOW?
Tiger Translate Event in London. Its gonna be BIG. Some gigs with Nike, Onitsuka Tiger and Street Fighter4 Tees are making me smile.



TELL US ABOUT THE SCENE YOU ARE IN RIGHT NOW.
There's more art awareness now. You can actually make a living from art now. You see more independent publications and gallery spaces in LA and London. In Singapore too, its growing and I'm glad to be part of it

TELL US ABOUT YOUR WORK, THE PEOPLE YOU MEET AND HOW THIS INSPIRES YOU.
I don't really have a “fixed style” and kinda like to do something different in both concept and execution. But at the end, the piece still looks like a MRB's piece. It's great to meet other artists, they may be in the same scene, but have different perspective of art than yourself, so there will be a crossover of ideas.

DESCRIBE YOUR GENERATION.
Being an individual. You see people paying good mula for customs or limited eds or heavily customized blogs, myspace, etc. I guess my generation's all about that in short.

LOOK INTO YOUR CRYSTAL BALL AND TELL US WHAT YOU SEE.
I'm hoping to have my own art show in the near future and more exposure overseas. As for my scene, it may get over saturated...art is not a trend, its a lifestyle.



WHO DO YOU ADMIRE?
I really admire artists like, Sam Weber, James Jean, Paul Pope and Kozydan. They are the hottest new generation of artist.



TELL US MORE ABOUT THE DESIGN AND ART YOU ENCOUNTER.
The best thing about visiting different cities is that it really opens your mind creatively. You experience a whole new culture in that short span of time. Its like boot camp. With that, I usually come back home with new insights and try to apply them to my art.



WHAT WOULD YOU DO TO SHAKE UP YOUR GENERATION?
Create better art.





CONTACT ARTISTS: AWE5OME

LINKS: www.benqwek.com

BLOG: MRB BLOG

EeShaun - Singapore

TELL US ABOUT YOURSELF, WHY YOU LOVE WHAT YOU DO & WHAT INSPIRES YOU TO DO IT?
Hi my name is eeshaun, I am an illustrator, graphic designer, artist, and art educator at Republic Polytechnic. I started drawing because I discovered happiness in my own characters, and its fun to look at them and wonder what they’re about. Not much of it makes any sense, but it helps that some people like what I’m doing. The whole process of improvisation is part of my personal reaction to how Singapore is such a planned and organized city. Maybe more of this place should be organic, and less structured. I’m also interested in the use of multiple colors and organic forms in my artwork, and non-sequential narratives among the characters that populate my environment. There are too many lines and sharp edges in our visual landscape.

WHAT ARE YOU WORKING ON RIGHT NOW?
I have just finished 2 pieces for the new shopping mall - Ion, which will be up sometime next week along orchard road. I’m also working together with the team at FARMWORK to create illustrations for the Singapore Pavilion at the upcoming Venice Biennale. Finally, I’m illustrating a children’s book, written by Farah Bagharib-Kaltz, about a bird who’s afraid of heights.

WHAT'S THE ART & DESIGN SCENE LIKE IN SINGAPORE NOW?
I think the design scene has always been ‘there’, or evolving, or at least more people are getting aware of it - thanks to efforts by Design Singapore, and also the internet – there are lots of design and art blogs which showcase exciting work by international artists. So its fun, and very inspiring to see what people are up to. I’m just glad to be part of it, and I’m trying hard to contribute to what Singaporean design and art could be. A lot of people complain that Singapore lacks an identity. So maybe my role is to try and shape or change that perception.



Nike Windrunner Bearbrick




WHAT'S POPULAR AND INFLUENTIAL IN SINGAPORE NOW?
I think in terms of art, graffiti, comics and Japanese manga have always had a popular appeal among Singaporeans. I’m not really big on fashion or make up, but I see a lot of people having Amy Winehouse eyes nowadays. I think cosplay is also a big influence on dressing. Maybe it just depends on what people are into – beach, surf culture, rock, emo-punk, or the pussycat dolls.

TELL US ABOUT THE NEAR FUTURE.
I think everyone on the planet would have a facebook, friendster, bebo, myspace or ning account. Hopefully more people become design-aware, and visit more art galleries, performances and festivals. More art education in schools, and design education should start from primary school.

WHAT DO YOU NEED NOW?
Inspiration, and more skills in terms of programming or 3D.

WHAT’S YOUR PHILOSOPHY?
Happiness is key.








CONTACT ARTISTS: AWE5OME

LINKS: www.eeshaun.com

CANDY KANG - Singapore

TELL US ABOUT YOURSELF, WHY YOU LOVE WHAT YOU DO & WHAT INSPIRES YOU TO DO IT.
Bobby : I sniff butts for inspirations. Hungry is my sidekick. Wabbit is our imaginary friend who takes all the blames for all pee not aimed on the newspaper at home.
Candy : I am G.O.D. (my ad agency) by day and Dog by night. After being in advertising for 10 years and doing everything to my clients bidding...
its good to redeem my soul by doing anything and everything non client related. I love my dogs. They tell me stuff which I translate to stories and stuff.

WHAT PROJECTS IN MUSIC, ART+DESIGN ARE YOU COLLABORATING ON NOW?
I have a stall at MAAD which is a designer marker of sorts. It happens on the first weekend of every month where I go flog WDB wares (which are all lovingly paw-made by WDB himself) WDB is also part of 4femmes which is a collective of all girls creative. 4femmes was just recently involved in Dual City Sessions 2008 / Art with Sound (Berlin) which is soon to be traveling to Tokyo and Singapore.





TELL US ABOUT THE SCENE YOU ARE IN RIGHT NOW. WHAT’S HAPPENING. WHO’S GIVING IT A JOLT. HOW DOES WHAT YOU DO FIT IN?
Honestly, just 5 years ago, it would be a total oxymoron to say that Singapore is creative. But in these couple of years, I've seen a lot of initiative projects, a lot of participation and basically a lot more things going on. We are still along way from London and Japan, but slowly and surely we are heading in the right direction.

Individuals who believe in themselves are creating ripples, corporate peeps with dosh and influences are giving space and funds to boost the scene. Think Tiger Translate, Night & Day bar/gallery & Zouk.
Even local creative shops are pushing their peers and young ones :
asylum and silnt.

WDB is just shameless... WDB will say yes to all invites. WDB will share love any time.



TELL US ABOUT THE KIND OF PERSON WDB ATTRACTS?
Well, Paul, what kind of a person are you? WDB seemed to have captured your attention. :-) An article in the straits times mentioned that WDB is drawing the OLs (office ladies) i guess its because of Bobby. He is afterall a small white dog. Every girl likes a small white dog. i think. My repeated customers are not from the creative field and that's nice. It's good to be appreciated by people outside my comfort zone.
Paul The Editor: I am the kind of office lady that's interested in explorers and people from the outer regions of creativity.



EVERY GENERATION HAS A LOOK, A FIXATION FOR FASHION, HAIR, MAKE- UP & MUSIC. TELL US WHAT YOU SEE AROUND YOU. WHAT ARE YOUR MATES GETTING IN TO?
Well, my friends boycott Crocs. My friends think that Birkies rocks. My friends like skinny jeans though the ones with better bods and are more progressive have moved on to high-waisted jeans of the 80s. My friends think that neon is cool. My friends dig vintage. My friends usually don't subscribe to the likes of Vogue, Elle and all the rest of the runway boo boos.And my friends would do organic if they can afford it. As for the audio entertainment... most seem to have started some vinyl collections and have themselves some fancy DJ names. And they still trade looted mp3s.



WHAT DO YOU NEED BESIDES MORE MONEY AND LONGER THUMBS THAT WILL HELP YOU DO WHAT YOU DO BETTER?
I was told I make more rubbish when my heart is broken... now this is
the tricky bit... my heart ain't broken now, so WDB's factory activity
has kind of been reduced to a trickle. I guess Bobby should really
fancy another and perhaps I will make mad stuff with a vengeance to
win him back!



VIDEO: 4 FEMMES FOR ONE DOT ZERO


CONTACT ARTISTS: AWE5OME

LINKS: WHITE DOG BOBBY

NEO CHA - China

TELL US A BIT ABOUT YOURSELF AND WHAT YOU DO?
I am part of the founding cadre for Neocha.com and contributing editor / China representative for PSFK. I’m half Chinese – half American, grew up in Silicon Valley and have lived throughout China for the last 5+ years.

WHAT HAS BEEN YOUR ACHIEVEMENT SO FAR?
Built the leading social networking site for creative communities in China from scratch.

Organized what some say is the largest creative communities event in recent Shanghai history with roughly 10,000 people. Video here.

Assembled the largest library of musician-uploaded, independent Chinese music online and helped some of those musicians make money.



WHAT’S YOUR INSPIRATION?
The energy, creativity and passion of independent youth culture in China. These are not the kids sitting around playing video games all day, but rather the ones who have a hobby, project or endeavor that they are engaged and passionate about whether its electronic music or sewing toy dolls. Channeling their passion into something positive and productive allows them to influence and push mainstream youth culture in China.

WHAT HOT WITH NEO CHA RIGHT NOW?
We’re working with Nike to engage our users and support their newly opened event space in Beijing called 706. We’re also helping them find previously unheard, but up-and-coming, independent Chinese music for their videos.

We are organizing this year’s NOTCH festival, which is the largest Nordic + China audio-visual festival. There is a fantastic line-up this year, including Tape, Efterklang, Nils Petter Molvaer, Shining, Andreas Tilliander, along with a few great Chinese bands.

We’re working on some new ideas to help brands keep up, engage and differentiate themselves by harnessing the power of the young creative demographic in China. Online ethnography and branded content are two areas we are keen on exploring more.



WHAT'S THE NEO CHA SCENE?
The Neocha community encompasses what I call independent youth culture or creative youth culture and by definition, it’s composed of creative, passionate people whose interests are diverse, crossing over numerous sub-cultures. These subcultures include every type of music (rock, electronic, folk, jazz, etc.), lomography, graphic design, skateboarding, graffiti, independent theatre, pixel art, comic books, video games, cosplay...

WHAT'S YOUR CROWD?
Young trendsetters in China who are looking for something beyond mainstream media and culture. They are passionate about originality and creativity which makes them independent minded and open to new ideas. These people are typically 17-35, well-educated and living in first and second tier cities in China.

HOW DO YOU PROMOTE WHAT YOU ARE DOING?
Almost everything we do is promoted by word of mouth (online and offline). We also get contacted by media quite often as we’re doing something original and interesting in a fast-growing country.



WHAT KIND OF BRANDS WOULD YOU LIKE TO
COLLABORATE WITH?
Brands who want to engage and differentiate themselves with the next generation of Chinese creatives.

Forward thinking brands who understand the importance of collaborating with consumers and delivering value rather than stuffing a message down their throat.

Brands who realize the importance of the Internet for every stage of a campaign, from research to execution. This is where young people live.

WHAT WILL THE FUTURE HOLD FOR CHINA?
Creative culture will continue to gain traction in China and gradually influence more of mainstream culture / media. Indie musicians will appear more prominently on the scene and will finally be able make some decent money. Brands will understand the importance of the next generation of young creatives and want to collaborate with them. And we’ll be alongside acting as a facilitator, putting people in touch, organizing events and having a kickass time along the way.



CONTACT ARTISTS: AWE5OME

LINKS: NEO CHA

ASHA - Singapore

Asha once told us during the recording of RIGHTCLICKA's bootleg version of The Carpenter's 'Top Of The World' that it was better to remain in the underground because that's where all the action happens. Today, we love it that she still manages to keep the underground vibe with the work she does but still maintains an above ground image.

WHO INSPIRES YOU?
Michael Jackson...I wanted to dance like him. If I wasn't told I was fat all the time...I would have probably been a damn good dancer. I turned to singing because vocally I knew what I was made of...they could not have denied me my place. That continues to be my compass.

DOES IT MATTER WHERE THE MUSIC SOURCE IS FROM?
I released my first EP "Introducing Asha". I was making a statement - I didn't grow up in the Bronx, I grew up here and there is soul in Singapore. I produced it to prove it.



WHAT'S HOT WITH ASHA NOW?
I'll be recording my fourth album with Gregory Del Piero in France in October. S.U.M.O may be producing a single for me...I'm still working out a couple of demos for them. We'll see how it all goes...I don't want to give too much away.

HOW DO YOU PROMOTE YOUR MUSIC?
I can't hard-sell my own product but I take a fastidious stance with myself when I work.

WHAT KIND OF BRANDS WOULD YOU LIKE TO COLLABORATE WITH?
Obscure and stylish ones with a delicious range of hats.

WHAT IS YOUR FUTURE?
Longevity.




CONTACT ARTISTS: AWE5OME

LINKS: ASHA

ZXEROKOOL - Singapore

WHAT HAS BEEN YOUR HIGHLIGHTS SO FAR?
Tiger Beer Translate "Merge" book cover artwork.
Upcoming 2008 MTV Asia Awards Trophy Design & Styleguide.
Meeting interesting and inspiring people along the way.

WHAT'S INSPIRES YOU?
Pop culture, movies, people, traveling…green tea and air-conditioning.

WHAT'S HOT WITH YOU THESE DAYS?
A couple of collaborative projects and getting more than a few ideas off the ground, there is just so much to do and so little time for all the fun stuff I want to get going + accomplish. Unfortunately there are a lot of mundane day to day things that need taking care of too, but I'm minimizing that little by little…got to cut out the crap and get to the important stuff. Life's too short to waste....



HOW'S IT BEEN SO FAR?
Thankfully over the years since I started as a young apprentice learning the ways of The Force, I've met some incredible and amazing people, and I've learned a lot from them. Every Jedi needs a few masters.

DEFINE DIVERSITY?
I don't really know, I've had people sending me email to say how much they loved a certain design or t-shirt…everyone of them had a very unique and different reason for liking whatever piece it was. We all know that no two people are alike but I was really grasping that definition of diversity in a very real way.



WHAT KIND OF BRANDS WOULD YOU LIKE TO COLLABORATE WITH?
Medicom, Kid Robot, basically toy companies…I want to take my 2D creations to the next level. Trying to hatch a plan to do that myself but it'd be nice to go at it with an experienced brand.

Oh and I would also love to do some official Daft Punk artwork, actually I've already customized my very own Daft Punk CD jewel case.



WHAT'S NEXT FOR ZXEROKOOL?
More t-shirts, hopefully toys, cutting edge design work for cool brands. Also I've recently founded a small creative collective known as MutantStyle. Perhaps also some contemporary art projects.



HOW DO YOU PROMOTE WHAT YOU ARE DOING?
Through my website. Also I figured most people like money, so I decided to design my own parody of the US dollar note…with which I then used to spread the love. I also insert my evil self portrait into certain pieces I do, it's like a subliminal visual identification system.

When I was watching Star Wars I thought it would be cool to be Boba Fett, except instead of the blaster rifle and spaceship my weapons would be my computer and visual kung fu skills...



CONTACT ARTISTS: AWE5OME

LINKS: ZXEROKOOL.COM