DECONSTRACTIVISM

Things and New Things

2010-11-01T23:25:00.000-05:00

"I've been seriously busy with a lot of things lately." I seem to be saying that all the time whenever I update my blog. True. So, here's some things that I've been doing... in pictures!

Photos from the show at CANVAS and Winter Street Studios. I sold two paintings and it will be sent to New York.

Portrait of Courtney Gallardo

Acrylic, spray paint, ink, charcoal and gouache on canvas
36 x 36 in

Upcoming shows:

Baby Art -- November 14, 2010 at El Rincon Social

Boarded Up: The Art of Surf and Skate -- December 11, 2010 at M2 Gallery

Project Row House

2010-09-16T10:32:00.000-05:00

The show just closed last September 12 and I must say, what an incredible experience! I guess, that sums it all up for me and I'll just let the pictures do the talking.

Needing to Catch Up/Project Row House

2010-08-14T09:23:00.000-05:00

I have been really busy and I've been needing to catch up on updating my blog more often. I haven't posted anything about Samantha and I's trip to NYC, the show I had at Box13 and all other stuff.

They are important things but this is the one that is upcoming at this very moment in time and space. Today is the Project Row House Opening Reception. Here's the flyer and I must say, I am nervous. More on this post later. I promise, I'll spend more time on it.

About Child Prodigies

2010-06-27T00:45:00.004-05:00

I don't believe in child prodigies. They don't exist. They're just a lame idea that parents made up. I believe in the craft of practice. The more you practice, the more your craft gets better. You can't just decide to lie down for 10 years and expect your legs to know how to walk again. (Matt Manalo)

Mid June Update!

2010-06-24T23:19:00.000-05:00

I just submitted my three recent paintings to Lawndale's "The Big Show". If I get accepted, which I hope I will, I will be showcasing my work with other artists in Texas. Yup, in Texas. Not just Houston. So yeah, I hope I get in because the last time I joined, I got denied. So yup, I'll post here if I get accepted or not.
I've been thinking lately about how I am going to dedicate 20 hours a week to Project Row House Summer Studio Program. I mean, it's not really a problem but I'm just going to be super, no super extra busy, once I get back from New York. Just a thought. I'm not really worried. I can do it and it's going to be fun!
Also, I've been planning some art swap with other artists and I'm super excited to have something different because right now, all I see are my paintings. Though I have a few original work from other artists before, I want to do something that is more enjoyable than just collecting art.
The other night I was invited by my good friend George Manzur, who owns Iyollo Gallery, to have a table for a MECCA event.

Today I was sketching with one of my best friends Rex Mohammad. I love drawing and I must say, I miss it because I've been focusing more on painting (despite of painting being another form of drawing), reading art literature and reviews and looking at other works.

Here were the sketches:

on my Moleskine.

On another bigger sketchpad.

Also, this is my latest painting that I submitted for The Big Show.

"Memory of a Car Ride in 1997" 2010

Mixed Media on Panel

16x24

Mid June

2010-06-19T07:20:00.000-05:00

A lot of great things has happened and I could never be happier about all the success with art, life, family and love. I don't have any shows lined up for this month but I have been really busy making art, reading about art and talking about art. I've been going to openings and just diving myself into a lot of great opportunities.

Here are two of my new paintings:

"Memory of Car Crash"

Mixed Media on Panel

"Memory of 21st Birthday"

Mixed Media on Panel

Then my very good friend Jonathan Jardin and I made a series of collaborative paintings. They're all for sale as well as any painting that I have on here. If they are still available, that is. For inquiries, just email me at: matth3wmanalo@gmail.com

Also, someone was interested in buying one of my paintings from my show at War'Hous Studios. One of the owners, Dandee Danao, mentioned that the buyer already gave a downpayment just so it won't be taken by anyone else.

On July 1, I am flying off to New York City with Samantha to see, taste, smell, feel and hear it. She's never been there so it's up to me to show her around. My plan is to meet up with Edward Albee, some other artists like David Shull and probably some of his friends. Basically, just immerse ourself in the city. We are both excited and we only have 12 days left! IT-WILL-BE-AMAZING!

Samantha and I at the Planting Seeds Show. Our good friend, Raul Gonzalez http://www.facebook.com/ArtistRaulGonzalez was exhibiting his works. You have to check it out! The photo was taken by Brit who also runs http://www.brittkellyphoto.com as well as http://www.brittkellyphoto.blogspot.com/.

Out of I don't know how many artists that applied, I was chosen to be one of the few to work on Project Row Houses. Yes, I got the Summer Studio Program for Project Row House! I am so excited because this was my second time applying for it. It starts on July 6, 2010 and ends on the 13th of August. The show will be opened on the 14th of July so don't miss it! I have something special prepared for that house and I cannot wait to start on it. Good things are coming my way, good things!

May 2010

2010-05-27T12:08:00.000-05:00

New:

Mona Lisa's Hands 2010
Conte Crayons on Kraft Paper

I have two new paintings I'm going to post up soon. I just haven't had the time to take good quality photos of them yet.

Shows:

Catching up

2010-05-12T01:17:00.002-05:00

So many things going on and tonight is the only time I've found to upload new photos of works and what not.
Last Saturday was the opening for Sound Box Studio's fund raising show. They featured two of my paintings and I was showing with Rachel Skov and Ronnie Sudol. Hopefully, I've helped Wyldstyl to raise money for their NY trip soon. Goodluck guys! Also, May 4th, 2010 was the opening for the show Natural Selection at Bohemeo's. I am currently showing with Kenneth Pierson, Christina Boanerges, Hilary Hunt, and more!

On the 28th of May, I'll be part of Warhous Studio's Grand Opening Show and on the 29th will be The Mix at Winterstreet Studios.

Edward Albee already picked up the two paintings that he's interested in and I'm just waiting on that paycheck! Womp! There should be more good things coming up soon. I was nominated to do Project Rowhouse's Summer Studio Program. That should be exciting! Hopefully I get it.

New works:

1004 and more abstractions of electronic devices
Mixed Media on paper
size varies

Partial Memory 2010
Mixed media on panel
4ft x 6ft

Definition of Human Memory 2010
Spray paint, charcoal, house paint, etc. on panel
4ft x 6ft

1004 Small Paintings

2010-05-04T11:29:00.001-05:00

Video documentation of myself installing my 1004 small paintings and then some.

Mid April

2010-04-12T09:53:00.001-05:00

Progress photo of the street painting I did at the Woodlands Waterway Art Festival. It is basically a colored version of my insect drawing in graphite. Except that I made some slight changes in the format. I got interesting reactions from it. It drew attention to the young kids and the moms were just terrified. I just laughed. Hopefully I sparked the creative juices of those young human beings.

Right now, I'm just waiting for a painting to come down from a show so I can start packing them and sell it to Mr. Edward Albee. The show at Iyollo Gallery just closed last Saturday. I am also waiting for a letter if I made it into the Yale/Norfolk Summer Residency in Connecticut. Hopefully all the prayers and luck work! Then I have 3 more shows simmering up. One will be at Bohemeo's called "Natural Selection" on May 4th together with Kenneth Pierson and other people. On May 29th, I am going to have another exhibition at the Winter Street Studios with Tito Fabian, Lisa Piedrasanta, etc. and another at War'Hous which is still in the plans.

New stuff:

Collab with Edu Portillo:

then we used the same fabric material for this installation:

Edu had a lot of balloons in his studio that he wanted to get rid of, so this is what we did:

We did a balloon drop at a party that was currently going on at the Blaffer Gallery with the help of Cesar Ramos and Julian Luna.

Then this is a collab with Edu Portillo and Raul Gonzales:

I am not completely sure about the size because it was a found cloth but it sure did fit 3 adults in the painting. We just used acrylic to do the figures. Obviously, I am the one on the right side with the hat, vest and a bike.

also, 518/1000 and I am behind schedule.

I will be gone again for the weekend to be a camp councilor for Camp Pump It Up. Just helping out the kids with heart problems, because I used to be one, spend time outside the hospital and enjoy being a kid.

APRIL

2010-04-07T11:37:00.001-05:00

They always misspell my last name! I don't know why but yeah, closing show peoples. Show some love! Also on that day, I will be at the Woodlands Waterway Festival to do street painting from 1PM-6PM!

336/1000.

1000 small paintings

2010-04-05T10:38:00.004-05:00

256/1000

The End of a Marchtastic Extravaganza

2010-03-29T10:41:00.001-05:00

After a near-death experience, I thought it was funny how I am part of the "How I Will Die" Show. It is part of Fotofest and the show already closed last Friday, March 26, 2010. There was a good amount of people that came and it was fun seeing former colleagues and professors there.

Picture with most of the artists that was part of the show.

Here are my entries on the show:

"Three Seconds After Being Attacked By Dog-Sized Dinosaurs"

"Three Seconds After Being Attacked By Giant Insects"

I was trying to give death a lighter image because it's just not in my personality to be really melancholic about this topic. I am not making a joke out of it but on a serious note, if I was going to choose how I will die, it might as well be something ridiculous like the photos. Impossible? Well, I wouldn't be surprised if it DID happen in the future. We're in a time where technology's goal is trying to be more human-like and the matters regarding gene-splicing and how they've found a way to create super cows. So yeah, maybe in 50 years? It might happen. Just saying.

I finally finished my 8ft x 8ft painting. It was such a struggle physically and emotionally. So I learned that sometimes you just have to shut up and have the audience have their own explanation to it. Only talk when asked Matt-kind of deal. So yeah, photos:

I have Mauricio and Hilary to compare the scale.

Bigger paintings require bigger tools to work with. I used my bike, a mop, a giant scraper called "light saber", etc. It was just frustrating because it's taking me a long while to achieve the look and feel that I wanted. All the little marks that I made didn't matter because of the scale but alas, I finished it. So far, this is the biggest painting I've ever made. I had to make all the panels because it's 8 pieces of 2 ft x 4 ft put together to make the 8ft square total.

So here's what I've been working on so far. This is just a sneak preview of what's going to happen:

So yeah, 62 paintings so far. I don't know how many I will end up in a span of one week but we'll see. Also, notice how I have a circle around it. I'm proud of myself --making a perfect circle with one arm swing. YES!

April 10, 2010: I will be doing a live painting at the Woodlands Waterway Art Festival. It's going to be exciting! Still thinking of Yale/Norfolk for summer. Lawndale Residency if that doesn't happen. Keeping my fingers crossed.

Show at Iyollo Gallery

2010-03-20T09:29:00.000-05:00

MAKE IT OR BAKE IT!

It's Okay, It's A Party!

2010-03-15T21:28:00.005-05:00

Perfect 10s Show was a blast. I was surprised by the number of people that showed up!
Photos by OneOctoberNight (click for more photos)

Spring break? Nah, I don't think I am having one but we will see. I've been going to a lot of openings lately, like Fotofest, "Dis, Dat, Deez, Doz, Deux" @ The Joanna, CTRL, Art Palace, etc. I believe in Show Karma: If you go to other people's shows then people will go to your show. I might be going to the beach on the weekend. Oh, wait. Never mind. (pouts)

More reasons to smile:

Edward Albee, the world famous playwright who made Who's Afraid of Virginia Woolf?, The Zoo Story, A Delicate Balance, and The Three Tall Women and also a Pulitzer Prize winner, is interested in collecting some of my work. YES! (smile)
This Saturday, I have another art show on Saturday March 20, 2010 at Iyollo Gallery. It's the opening as well. It is located at 700 Silver St. Houston TX. I will be showing with Daniel Anguilu, ACK!, Julie Zarate, etc. 7-10PM See you there!!!!
I am almost done with my 8 ft x 8 ft panel! I will post up photos soon. It has been a massive struggle.
I am applying for a summer internship at Yale. Hopefully I get accepted. (super huge smile)
March 26, 2010 How I Will Die Show closing reception. I will be there for sure! I have three photos and it is part of Fotofest Biennial. Here's the listing: Fotofest Biennial 2010 listing look for the Annex Gallery at HCC Southwest.
I am planning to donate a painting to Twestival Houston that will be at the Caroline Collective 530PM-11PM Thursday March 25, 2010. It will be a fund raising event.

Video of The Day: JR's Women are Heroes

2010-03-08T12:49:00.000-06:00

JR / Exposition Paris 2009 - Ile Saint Louis
Uploaded by JR. - Watch original web videos.

March 2010

2010-03-01T11:10:00.000-06:00

February just ended and for me, it ended with a blast because it was my mom's 50th birthday! Happy Birthday Mom! I love you! Then today, March 1st, my younger brother is celebrating his 21st. Time surely travels so fast nowadays. I have been barely home and I have been greatly dehydrated. I'm sure you know the reason behind this. I am really excited about March. First show coming up for this month is the Perfect 10s at the Summer Street Studios. I am stoked to see that my friend Matthew Marand of OneOctoberNight is going to have a photo booth then Damon Allen, Cee Plus Bad Knives, Mr Castillo and Grrrl Parts will be a guest DJ. Also it is sponsored by Case Magazine, Black Swan Printing Co and WeAreProtozoa. So yup, check it out! It will be an awesome night! March 6, 2010 from 6PM-12AM.

Another reason for enthusiasm is having The Art Guys to mentor me. If you don't know them then you suck. Just kidding, of course. But they have mentioned a lot of things that made me more motivated to be a professional artist. One of the things they said was it is important to have courage. Come to think of it, it's very true. Without it, you won't go anywhere. They've encouraged me to just go ahead and do it. I won't let anything stop me from creating work. I know it sounds like a bitch to say but this is my career. This is my life. Not a lot of people take me seriously because I am not a doctor, an engineer or whatever. I think and believe that there's a reason why I have spent countless years of my life trying to search what I am supposed to be doing. I love Houston so much but I have to move on. Probably New York? I don't know yet. In two years maybe but I haven't really planned that far yet. I want to be exhibited in museums. I want to prove that success comes with passion. I am just happy right now to be doing what I do and for being recognized with what I do. That's why I am very very thankful of the people who has been supportive in everything especially my friends and family. This is the reason why I made this collage.

"Can't Stop. Won't Stop."

Also, if you haven't checked out www.29-95.com you should. I have an artist profile there as well. Here's the link: http://www.29-95.com/art/bands-and-artists/matthew-manalo

End of February Update

2010-02-21T00:14:00.000-06:00

Goodness. I've been so busy that I haven't had time to update this. I honestly do not know if anyone reads it but oh well. I just do it anyway to keep the readers and myself updated/informed on what I've been doing or about to do in the land of ART. Blegh. Sounded like a storyline from a cheezy "Learn How To..." video.

Anyway, show coming up TOMORROW (I'm blaming my lack of time for this)
FARMART 700 Emile St.
9AM-5PM

Here's some photos of what we've been doing before the show tomorrow:

The Men of Honor Show is closing on Tuesday, February 23. So I have to take the painting back to my studio unless anyone wants to buy it and make it part of their collection. I'd be super glad to send it away to someone who likes it than have it standing by and eating up space in my studio.

On February 22, the How I Will Die Show will be opening. Here's the flyer for it:

It's pretty nifty I think. It will be at the Greenbriar Annex at HCC SW Stafford. I have three photos I did. I will post it once the show is done so you'll actually be there. The closing reception will be held on the 26th of March 7-9PM.

Before that, is the Perfect 10s Show.

Start Time:	Saturday, 06 March 2010 at 18:00
End Time:	Sunday, 07 March 2010 at 00:00
Location:	2500 Summer Street 7A HTX 77007 (upstairs)

NEW WORK

February 2010

2010-02-13T11:07:00.002-06:00

So many things have happened recently and I have finally found time to update.
February 5, 2010 Interview on 90.1 KPFT. I got to talk about my artworks and I advertised the Cardboard Confessions Show but mainly, we were there to promote the FARMART show.
Link to the audiofile: http://www.facebook.com/album.php?aid=6111&id=330800176&saved#!/video/video.php?v=1322883546460&ref=mf
Photos:

February 6, 2010 Cardboard Confessions - 7 Deadly Sins happened and we had a good turn out. A very nice couple bought my piece and I gave them some free art in return. I want to thank Fidel Ordonez, Joe Michael, Gelson Lemus and the SuckerPunch Clothing Store for making this event happen.

Some photos from the event:

February 7, 2010 Happy 49th Birthday Pops! I love you

February 11, 2010 - MD Anderson Library hosts an Art Show that I got accepted in.

The juries were:

Jillian Conrad, School of Art, University of Houston

Clare Elliott, Menil Collection

Vanessa Perez McCalla, Art League of Houston

Katherine Veneman, Blaffer Gallery

Dena Woodall, Museum of Fine Arts, Houston

All of that so far. So many things happening and there are more shows coming up.
February 21, 2010 -- FARMART Show at 700 Emile St. The Last Organic Outpost. We will be having music, from my good friends Tangerous, yoga, art and food! It will be from 9am-5pm.

February 22, 2010 -- How I Will Die Show, which is part of Fotofest. I will be showing three pieces of my photography work in line with other well-respected artists that work in the country. The closing reception will be on March 26, 2010. The show is exhibited at the Greenbriar Annex Gallery, which is a part of HCC Southwest.

More updates soon!

2010-02-04T19:03:00.001-06:00

I will be on air tomorrow for Living the Arts on KPFT 90.1 @ 6AM! Tune in!

Cardboard Confessional - 7 Deadly Sins

2010-02-01T11:39:00.000-06:00

Hope you guys can come! I'm not in the flyer because I was just included last minute but I have a piece on the show.

Sucker Punch 2609 Dunlavy Houston TX 77006

February 6, 2010 8PM-11PM

Artworks by:

Joe Michael

Fidel Ordonez

Gelson Lemus

and me!

Incredibly Awesome January

2010-02-01T11:23:00.001-06:00

January has been good to me. I've made a lot of friends, I've been to several art openings and I've shown some of my artworks in several venues. The Men of Honor Show that was held last January 29, 2010, went well. I'm glad that people that I wasn't expecting went. Here are some photos:

Patricia Porcynaluk, my mentor, and I.

Steven Potter and I

*photos by Jonathan Jardin*

Last January 30, 2010 I had an Art Showcase that was held at Doubleshots Coffehouse. It was an event organized by the Artists Anonymous that featured artworks by local artists and music by local acts. I put up my artworks and people will donate to Levi, the owner's child, memorial fund. I gave 100% of the profits. Special shoutout to the people who donated!

Thank you guys!!! Also, special shoutout to Tangerous! They used one of my works for their new awesome album Godfest! Check it out!

Hi Sir Hi Ma'am I'm The Pinhole Man

2010-01-25T01:10:00.002-06:00

Finally finished framing and all that wonderful stuff for my entries for How I Will Die Show/Fotofest and I am so tired. I still have my ghetto pinhole thing on my DSLR and I thought to might as well just take more photos using it. I will post the photos tomorrow at work. HEHEHE

*edit*
I am at work now and here are some of my favorites:

To view the rest of the photos, here's a link to my facebook:

Hi Sir Hi Ma'am I'm The Pinhole Man Album

I love The Beatles but this is just a great cover of their song "With A Little Help From My Friends"

Slightly New Look

2010-01-22T18:14:00.001-06:00

I finally had the time to change my banner as well as some smaller tweeks to make my blog aesthetically pleasing, well at least to myself. I just finished shooting and editing some pictures that I will be submitting for the How I Will Die Show on March 26. It's due February 1 and that's just a few days from now. I know, I seriously slacked a bit only because I could not get the feel that I wanted. I have been quite hesitant to shoot RAW because it takes up a lot of space on my card but now, I am convinced to finally just start shooting RAW from now on. Despite of I using my DSLR for this series, I still tried my best to keep the aspects of all my knowledge in shooting with film. Don't laugh but I really made a "ghetto" shortcut to make the photo vignetted. For your viewing pleasure and entertainment, I took a photo of my successful experiment.

Voila:

Yup. It's just a piece of dark cardboard and tape. Hey, it works!

Take Me! Love Me! I'm Yours! Send Me To Your Grandparents!

2010-01-22T08:51:00.001-06:00

Just giving away free art by myself and some few. Catch it when you can!

This was just sort of an experiment that I started because I got bored in my studio. I was curious to know if people were "into" this kind of free-art idea. After checking the spots where I left them, they were gone so I guess it works right?

If you're interested to join, just let me know! Let's make something happen, yeah?

This last one is by my good friend Christine Nguyen. Check out her stuff here: http://christinecnguyen.daportfolio.com/

Sadly, all these babies have been taken.

It's the Little Things That Count

2010-01-20T21:07:00.004-06:00

Today, I got a card from someone I gave a painting for. I don't usually get thank you cards so this is really special. I'm really really tired from work today. There was a huge amount of people who came in the gallery. I just wanted to say that the little things like a card, really do count. I felt an inner warmth that serves as a motivation for me to work harder --to always strive for the best. Despite of my ups and downs, knowing that there are people who appreciate my work, I find the littlest reasons for happiness and this is like a cherry on top!

I've always believed in this quotation about happiness:
“Success is not the key to happiness. Happiness is the key to success. If you love what you are doing, you will be successful.”

Another good thing that has come across me is being included in a benefit show.
Here's the flyer:

It will feature three Houston artists including my good friend Jonathan Jardin. It will be at Doubleshots Coffee House 13500 W. Airport blvd. Sugarland, Texas 77478. Unfortunately, the coffee shop that is family-owned is closing as well. I've spent so many good memories at that place. It makes me sad but I am glad that I can help them through my art. A portion of the paintings sold will go to Levi Aiden Bergeron's memorial fund. Please come and show your support. January 30th, 7PM.

Right now, I don't know how I can even write this long post. I have too many things to do. Recently, I accepted to do a commission of a 10 ft metal sculpture that will be placed in someone's house. I'm asking help from good friends Germain Quintilla and Julian Luna, who made an entry for the Art Car.

On top of that, the Minority Male Initiative Show is coming up on the 29th. The Sucker Punch show, I'm not sure about the date yet which is on February. Then Fotofest on March 26 and a live painting show for the Woodlands Waterway Art Festival on April 10. Lots of things lined up!!!

I already delivered the two recent paintings I did of Zahraa and my grandaunt. Both of them really liked the paintings and they even showed it to other people. I hope this will help me with my career. I'm still amazed right now by the amount of work I have and 2010 just started. I hope things will progress throughout the year! Bring it on! (I'll try my best)

I recently saw Lars von Trier's Dogville and I give it two thumbs up! Also, I'm having the ART GUYS as my mentors! I'm excited to meet them.

I have too many things to say but I have more things to do as well. One of the reasons why I don't update my blog as much as I want to is because when I'm using the computer, I always get side tracked into doing other things. Anyway, let me leave you with a video:

_________________________________________________________________________

Also, I want to make a shout out to Mike Cortez of BiteMeHouston! He's the man behind the Texas Tequila Throwdown which will be held at CoffeeGroundz on the 23rd of January. It will be the biggest tequila tasting in Texas. For more info, visit http://bitemehouston.blogspot.com/2010/01/texas-tequila-throwdown.html

Update!!!

2010-01-12T11:34:00.000-06:00

So far, my 2010 is going well. I have a show for every month till March and I just got an email reminding me of a gig that I have to do at the Woodlands Waterway Arts Festival.
That's on April 10, 2010 at the Woodlands. I get paid for it so YAY!!! It will be another street chalk painting on 6x6 ft square. I believe I will be painting with other artists as well. So, yup! January, February, March and April!

Grandma's 90th Birthday Painting

2010-01-12T11:31:00.000-06:00

This is my second painting for 2010. She's turning 90 on Saturday, January 16, 2010.
Again, acrylic on 16x20 canvas.

2010

2010-01-10T21:50:00.001-06:00

My first painting for 2010. It is a portrait of Zahraa in Acrylic on canvas. I must say, it has been a while since I painted traditionally. I did not use any black for this particular painting because I wanted to preserve the "academic" feel of it.

2009 has just passed and I must say, it's been a roller coaster ride. On a positive note, there are more good things that happened especially for me and my career being an artist. Though there were some tough times towards the end of 2009, 2010 for me is starting off really well. I just finished my first painting for the year and I'm really happy of how it turned out. I must admit. With all my "deconstractivism" philosophy going on, I was quite scared that I would not be able to pull this one off. Now it's done, I'm happy.

I have several projects next in line:

1. Portrait for grandma that is due very soon since she's celebrating her 90th birthday

2. I need to start taking photographs for my Fotofest entry that is due on February 1. I already looked at some printing places as well as where to get my frames.

I have some shows coming up as well:

*January 29, 2010 Minority Male's Initiative Show at HCC Lobby 3100 Main

*First/Second week, one of my artworks will be included in the show titled, "Cardboard Confessional" at SuckerPunch at Dunlavy (date and time is still pending)
*March 26, 2010 "How I Will Die" Show, a part of Fotofest

So far, so good. Also, I graduate in December. Awesome.

Forms and Lines Series

2009-12-10T23:15:00.000-06:00

"Forms and Lines"
Series
Acrylic, House Paint, Ink, Charcoal, Gesso

For Sale

2009-11-30T22:46:00.000-06:00

All my art are for sale but these are ready to leave the studio.
Both drawings are $25 each
12x12 inches, conte crayon on high quality paper

*they are 12x12s and I had to crop them because they don't fit in my scanner.
email me: matth3wmanalo@gmail.com
call/text me: (832) 231 5064

Reconstractivism II

2009-11-16T22:18:00.000-06:00

Reconstractivism II
Paper, Ink and Acrylic on Canvas
Approx. 3 x 4 ft

Reconstractivism II is part of my Deconstractivism philosophy/series. I basically reused materials which I find or get from very helpful people who support me in my works. I originally had these tax documents shredded to stuff my installation insect piece that I dragged across downtown Houston and there were still a lot of it left so... yup, this is what happened. It took me a while to get the top part fuzzy like that. I believe that the intensive process helps me a lot to just meditate and slow down with all that's happening career-wise.

I am planning to enter this piece for this years Artcrawl at the Houston Foundry. It is my first time and I hope it will be a great experience. It's always a good feeling to have actual work to show. Also, I am selling my paintings and I am keeping my fingers crossed that someone will purchase them and that they will end up in a good home. BUT, it would even be better if a gallery will approach/represent me.
On the same day of the Artcrawl is the Via Colori Street Painting Festival. It's my 4th year doing this and The Center for Hearing and Speech is very helpful with promoting my name as well. It is always an awesome experience to know that you are sharing your talent to help out deaf and mute kids to communicate without using sign language. If you are interested in donating for the Center for Hearing and Speech or Via Colori, either one helps the same cause, go to www.viacolorihouston.com . I am really excited this year and I am happy that more of my friends are signing up and contributing their talents for a good cause. I am also stoked to see some of the people that I haven't seen for a long time. It's free, fun and exciting so what do you have to lose? Just go and bring your family!

This is what I made last year:

November 2009

2009-11-08T23:50:00.004-06:00

November. I never thought it would be this busy. I am currently making new stuff for a critique on December 2nd (I think) and at the same time I have another art gig for Dance Houston at The Ripley House on November 14. After that, I'll be curating and installing the artworks that will be shown for the Houston Art Crawl at the Foundry. On the same day of the Art Crawl is Via Colori. For Via Colori this year, I am again one of the featured artists and I will be making a 10x10 ft. chalk/charcoal drawing. To be honest, I've been really busy that I have not really planned on what to do yet. I'm sure it will be another fun thing to do. I just hope I will be able to surivive having the Art Crawl and Via Colori at the same day.

Recently, my friend and classmate Josh and I fixed up a space and named it "Black Door Gallery" so we put up a show including works of our block mates. I installed the show with the help of Josh and Courtney. Here are some photos:

Recent work:

Approximately 5 x 7 ft
Charcoal, House paint, Acrylic, Graphite, Ink and Gesso.

I am currently working on this painting and I am using shredded office documents from the art office. I shall post it when I get finished with it. I am planning to enter this piece at the Art Crawl.

October 2009

2009-10-27T00:48:00.003-05:00

New stuff! New stuff!!!
October 25, 2009
I was walking around Downtown Houston with my sculpture that i sew myself.

See how it's still slightly clean? Well, it isn't anymore --which is, the whole idea. I was just thinking of different ways to do my mark-making. So why not use my beloved city's downtown area? I know it's got a lot of grime, piss, pigeon crap and things you really wouldn't want to lay your hands on.

Yeahhhh... Haha. Yes, that's me. and the grime stuck on my sculpture! Thank you city of Houston for lending me your dirt. I truly appreciate it. Also, I have a video of it. I am really grateful for having a very supportive sister. She was the one who took the video despite being under the weather. She also took some stills.

Here is the video:

On the other hand, I've also made some more stuff this month --really, I should be updating my blog more often than usual. It's just hard to find time to actually sit down and update. I promise --more time for blog!

"Reconstractivism I"
mixed media
3 ft x 4 ft

This painting will be part of the Minority Men's Initiative Show, which will be held on January 22, 2010. It will be curated by Valerie Cassel Oliver.

Yes, I'm excited!

"Untitled" 2009
Mixed Media on Panel
4 x 4 inches

Random thought process that I just had to let out. Think of : Dumplings.

Currently working on this skateboard deck for my cousin, Jason. It will be added to my collection of personalized skateboard decks that I designed/made.

End of September Work 2009

2009-09-28T14:20:00.004-05:00

Conte on Bristol Paper

Acrylic/Ink/Graphite on Wood
*Happy Birthday Jonathan Jardin*

Maturity

2009-09-26T12:50:00.009-05:00

Age ain't nothing but a number. I just turned 25 recently and one thing is definite: I've been hanging around this planet for a quarter of a century. So what is the significance of this thought to me? Well, other than life gets shorter and shorter, the possibility of doing something ambitious and grand seems to go with it as well. I'm talking about my career as an artist. By allowing myself to open up and accept, think and create new/old ideas have made me go into the questions: What is art? Why am I making it? What is drawing? Painting? Sculpture? I have always asked myself these questions and they have just been running into my head and developing a train of thought to where/what/why I am involved in this sort of sane insanity. Lately I have been very particular about the question of "What is a painting?". Surely enough, we do not live in the Renaissance era where a painting is defined by a piece of artwork that merely hangs on the wall. More so, a piece of stretched canvas or panel with paint on it. Of course, for me, there is nothing wrong about that but there is this itch inside of me that is trying to break loose from something conventional.

Self-Portrait as a Jester
Acrylic on Canvas 2006

Growing up, I've always had a hard time trying to fit in. People would be into "something" and it would not just make any sense to me. Maybe I was never meant to fit in? I have had that thought before. To some extent, I might be right. I think when it comes to conventional painting, I've paid some of my dues. At first I seriously wanted to be like Leonardo da Vinci. I wanted to draw and paint like him. So, I tried. I copied some of his drawings and even the style or feel of how it was drawn I followed it as well. I love the results and i still, at times fall inot drawing that way. It is very academic and constricted.

"Henry"
Conte on Paper
Exhibited at the Arts Alliance of Clear Lake

"Conversations, Ideas, etc."
Acrylic on Canvas

It makes me happy but I have always yearned to achieve a looseness like Cy Twombly. I am very interested in mark making and to me, he's probably one of the best to look up to. Studying his techniques, I have somehow learned to loosen up. So I started doing paintings like his where I used a lot of white paint to wash out some marks --more of additive and reductive way of painting. Again, I still draw like that to some extent. With that, it became so chaotic that I wanted to have some structure. It frustrates me how I fall into academic mode then loose mode in an instant. I wanted to have consistency. Right now, it has still been a struggle. So now, as a sort of rebellion to the academic way of making a painting, I decided to do a lot of research and ended up liking Rauschenberg, Roth, Hesse, and so on. Their unconventional use of materials really opened my eyes into creating "un-paintings". But don't get me wrong, these paintings still have the elements and principles in way everyone would call a painting, it is just unconventional. Lately, I have not really been thinking of making "art" I have just been creating things that I believe have aesthetics that are visible but disregarded. Trips to the art supply store seemed useless... I would rather just walk around aimlessly and find the things I can use. Deconstructing. Activating. Activism. Deconstractivism. Sorry, I just had to throw that in there. It's just a philosophy that I've been having. Thus the blog title. This sort of "maturity" really started with my experience with photography. I used to be a hardcore film-only junkie but the same as using an up-to-date encyclopedia, if one exists, I can gain knowledge as well by using Google. I've done digital photography and art and it has a different aesthetic to it. But what I'm saying is, that the possibilities are just endless because to me, "art is just a soup bowl with all the ingredients mixed in it. Not just chicken, beef or pork but something that looks like beautiful vomit".

September 24 --Charity Work at the Houston Pavilions

2009-09-25T19:42:00.006-05:00

There can never be anything better than using your talents or anything you love doing the most for charity. Truly, it was my driving force to have the opportunity to share my time and bring awareness for the kids who try so hard and live a normal life. I was sponsored by the Houston Center for Hearing and Speech and the party was organized by Fresh Arts and the Houston Young People for the Arts. I hoped that I was going to be able to catch some of the entertainment but I was just working until the event was done. Surely enough, I didn't let some of the wine/drink tasting come to pass.

Somewhat sore right now but I don't care. It's all for the kids.
Thank you Houston Center for Hearing and Speech, Fresh Arts and HYPA.

Here are some photos:

I decided to go black and white vs. full colour. Since they wanted an urban, cityscape-esque feel, I figured I'd use some perspectives. So the whole piece is totally about opposites. B/W vs. Colour, Perspective vs. 2-Dimensional, Linear vs. Organic. I believe the piece is up for auction so let me know if you are interested. You can email me at matth3wmanalo@gmail.com

The approximate size of the canvas is 8x8 feet. Also, the painting's price will go 100% to the Houston Center for Hearing and Speech.

New Works as of September 2009

2009-09-24T07:19:00.009-05:00

mixed media in plexiglass

mixed media in plexiglass

mixed media on panel

mixed media on panel

mixed media on panel

mixed media on panel

September 24 -- You know where it's at!

2009-09-13T19:31:00.003-05:00

I got invited by the people from Via Colori to do a live painting performance at the Houston Pavilions on September 24. This will benefit Fresh Arts as well as HYPA.
Tickets are sold for $30-- and you can purchase it at DowntownHouston.org

I hope to see you guys there!

More details on the event:

Eat. Drink. Chill. Cheer
a cocktails + culture crawl
benefiting Fresh Arts Coalition and Houston Young People for the Arts

Thursday, September 24, 2009
Houston Pavilions | $30 per person
Only 300 tickets available! This event always sells out.

Performances include
Via Colori artist Matthew Manalo | Center Court | 6-9 pm
Opera in the Heights | Pete's Dueling Piano Bar | 6:30 pm
Main Street Theatre | Pete's Dueling Piano Bar | 7 pm
Runaway Sun | House of Blues | 9 pm

Enjoy complimentary signature drinks and food pairings from III Forks Steakhouse, Guadalajara del Centro, House of Blues, McCormick & Schmick's Seafood Restaurant & Pete's Dueling Piano Bar

Self-parking and complimentary valet parking available on Fannin.

insect 4

2009-07-30T16:39:00.001-05:00

insect 4, originally uploaded by Matt Manalo.

insect 3

2009-07-28T16:32:00.001-05:00

insect 3, originally uploaded by Matt Manalo.

insect 2

2009-07-27T23:32:00.003-05:00

insect 2, originally uploaded by Matt Manalo.

insect 1

2009-07-27T23:32:00.001-05:00

insect 1, originally uploaded by Matt Manalo.

social vomit

2009-07-14T13:54:00.003-05:00

social vomit, originally uploaded by Matt Manalo.

leaves

2009-07-14T13:54:00.001-05:00

leaves, originally uploaded by Matt Manalo.

Insects

2009-06-16T20:33:00.001-05:00

Insects, originally uploaded by Matt Manalo.

Insects

2009-06-16T20:32:00.001-05:00

Insects, originally uploaded by Matt Manalo.

FIREFALLDOWN

2009-06-08T09:11:00.004-05:00

Life as an artist has been a struggle. Despite that, it has been the most enriching and fun moments of my life. Creating, meeting new people and most of all, being an inspiration for the other people who doesn't have the guidance on how to express themselves freely. To be an artist, you must speak out. You communicate with your visuals to try to reach an audience with a message. This is what I felt when I started listening to Firefalldown. They are such an inspiration to me and my struggle. With their success, I yearn success. I always strive for the better. They have served to be role models for me in my path to stand on my own feet. Truly, very inspiring.

Firefalldown promo

pictures from Via Colori 2008

Zombified Terrestrials

2009-06-03T18:43:00.001-05:00

Zombified Terrestrials, originally uploaded by Matt Manalo.

Live Drawing

2009-04-06T09:31:00.001-05:00

Live Drawing, originally uploaded by Matt Manalo.

Artists at Work

2009-04-06T08:47:00.001-05:00

Artists at Work, originally uploaded by Matt Manalo.

Jonathan and I did a live drawing at the event and it went well!
We got to sell the piece since it was up for a silent auction. It was our first time having this and I am elated that it came out successful. We were always worried about our styles or techniques crashing but charcoal was forgiving enough that we were able to integrate things and make it look unified.

Wash Series

2009-04-06T08:44:00.001-05:00

Wash Series, originally uploaded by Matt Manalo.

I am incredibly happy that all of them sold!

Deconstractivism

2009-04-06T08:34:00.001-05:00

Deconstractivism, originally uploaded by Matt Manalo.

Main artwork for the Guerilla Show!
Painting is still for sale for anyone who's interested.

Driveway Challenge Logo

2009-04-01T21:06:00.001-05:00

Driveway Challenge Logo, originally uploaded by Matt Manalo.

So far the biggest commission job of the year -- Houston Rockets & Direct Energy.

Here's a link to NBA.COM's article of the event:
http://www.nba.com/rockets/news/HoustonArea_Family_Hosts_Driv-307382-71.html

Paint the Walls Event

2009-03-23T23:06:00.001-05:00

IMG_6169, originally uploaded by Matt Manalo.

Free painting of whatever on the walls.
Fun night!

Constructive Activism

2009-03-23T23:04:00.001-05:00

IMG_7078, originally uploaded by Matt Manalo.

24x30
Acrylic
2009

APRIL 3rd

2009-03-07T22:39:00.001-06:00

APRIL 3rd, originally uploaded by Matt Manalo.

I will be showing new artworks and will be doing a live painting during the show. Please come and show your support!

Alternate Way of Saying Hello

2009-03-04T02:25:00.001-06:00

Alternate Way of Saying Hello, originally uploaded by Matt Manalo.

Matt Manalo 2009
Video Installation

FLICKR

2009-02-28T21:58:00.001-06:00

www.flickr.com

19 - FLY LICE

2008-11-26T10:31:00.005-06:00

Here is where DECONSTRACTIVISM takes physical effect in 3D. On this clay sculpture, I managed to reconstruct the anatomy of a horned-beetle and build a new creature/monster out of it.

Cone 5 clay bisqued and hand-painted.

18 - ON TV

2008-11-26T00:31:00.003-06:00

A few of my paintings have made it to the tube box! They were shown at the local station 17 for Houston Media Source. The show, called People's Politics, features local Houston artists and poets to showcase their talent on TV. I was featured last November 10, 2008 and will be featured again on Monday, December 1, 2008.

(really bad photos LOL)

17 - Something For The Kids (VIA COLORI)

2008-11-25T09:52:00.006-06:00

click on the photos to view full image

November 22 and 23 2008: Via Colori Street Painting Festival. First and foremost, I would like to thank all the people, most especially my friends, who came out to enjoy the weekend and the lovely weather! Also, for the companies that sponsored the event, we couldn't have made this possible without you guys! (BUD LIGHT LIME!)

Via Colori Houston is an annual event held to support the funding of the Center for Hearing and Speech. They have a unique program for teaching mute and deaf kids to communicate without using sign language --with the funding, these kids will be able to live a life that every kid deserves!

About my artwork, the medium used is chalk/pastel on a 10x10 feet square off the street of Allen Parkway and Bagby in the downtown area. Here's a photo of my sketch where I derived the artwork from:

If you're interested in donating your time or money to this cause, please visit: www.houstonviacolori.com

thank you

16 - Clash

2008-11-19T12:42:00.004-06:00

Clash (Dyptic)

Digital Laser Prints

Click here to view the right side
Click here to view the left side

15 - Fruit Bombs

2008-11-19T12:40:00.003-06:00

Fruit Bombs
Ceramic Sculpture

It's good to be back! More works to be posted soon!

14 - Gnipaer Eht

2008-09-23T09:38:00.002-05:00

.Wos uoy tahw paer uoy

13 - Sketch/Journal/Thoughts/Ideas

2008-09-22T11:41:00.002-05:00

12 - Golden Cheetah Prints and Peacock Feathers

2008-09-03T14:45:00.002-05:00

Model: Daisy Le

Make Up: Tamica

After hours of post-processing, here are some of the photos from my latest photoshoot. You can check out the rest by clicking here. If you go through the rest of my photo sets on Flickr, you'll see that I have done various experimentations on doing set-up photography. I guess I like this take better because I have full-control over everything --from lighting to props and other things that go with it. Since this is more of a commercialized photography, I put my watermark to prevent photo thieves from getting them.

11 - Too Early for Valentine's

2008-08-16T01:48:00.003-05:00

One Love
Digital photograph edited with Photoshop CS3
Models: T. and J.

10 - Blurbs on Exhibitions

2008-08-09T20:46:00.003-05:00

To start things off, coming back from a week-long travel is great. I can't believe I miss Houston that much --well, except for the weather. When I was out-of-town, the Clay Arts Museum & Educational Organization's 3rd Annual Emerging Artists Show had their opening. I entered a clay tea pot for the show. With the good memory that I have, I failed to take pictures of the teapot. I wish I made it to the opening because as an artist, IT IS IMPERATIVE THAT YOU ATTEND YOUR OPENINGS. If i wasn't out of town I could've gone with no excuses. I need to pick up my teapot on September 8. I hope I won't forget.

Tomorrow, I shall drive all the way to Clearlake to pick up another artwork that I entered at the Arts Alliance. I got an honorable mention for the portrait I made of Henry, a well-known life drawing model in town.

Since I am talking about shows, I got to talk to one of my friends in the Philippines. He now supervises a gallery at the University of Santo Tomas, one of the top universities in Manila. He IM'ed me the night before and mentioned that he has been looking at my artworks for the longest time and he said that he can give me a one-man show if ever I go back there for a visit. I was apalled of course! That is such a great opportunity but of course, I have never thought of going to the Philippines yet so I thought of a weird or yet, maybe a not-so-new idea. The idea I had was to send my paintings there and trust my friend to set-up the show. I know it is somewhat crazy to even think of that since I won't be there myself so maybe I will make a video and just have my face projected on a wall for the opening. Not only that, I'm thinking of sending wine and probably crackers and cheese as well. The only thing is, it might be expensive to ship my paintings there so I have to do a research on that because I think it will really cost a lot. Seems crazy but I've been brought up to grab any kind of opportunity that you can get. So we'll see. I hope that if I do it, a lot of people will go --I hope.

9 - Got Tired of the Flats and Found Time for Haikus

2008-08-07T01:45:00.006-05:00

click on the photos to view the large version

Panoramic Photos of the Grand Canyon in Arizona
I took these shots during my trip to California and Arizona. The view was just breath-taking and I couldn't reject the temptation to capture it in panoramic view. In order to achieve this, I stood at one place and took several pictures while pivoting my body/view and as well as trying hard not to change the level of my camera. (the secret is either to use a tripod or like what I did, I just kept the viewfinder stuck to my eye as I moved my body --hehe!). Later on, I just stitched the photos using Canon's software that came with my DSLR.

Haikus and Photos

The Cleansing

The rain it cleanses

Spirit refreshed and renewed

Rain, come back... Come back...

Follow the River

I walked the distance

and settled for nothing less

Follow the river.

As It Sleeps

Sleep oh sleep giant

Tomorrow will be the same

Rest and say no more.

8 - White-washed and Nude

2008-07-29T00:15:00.004-05:00

"Nude"
36x36x1.5
acrylic on canvas

Inspired by the song Nude(Big Ideas) by Radiohead.

7 - Wrapped in Gold and Red Cloth

2008-07-25T13:05:00.003-05:00

This is my version of an assassin. I hand drew it, scanned it and painted it using Photoshop CS3.

6 - In Search of the Dual Demon

2008-07-20T19:50:00.002-05:00

I designed this skateboard deck for P.U.S.H. (Public Use Skateparks for Houston) for their Houston Are You Board? Show, which was held November 2006 at the Mackey Gallery. There were many artists that joined the show including Obey and Dalek and there were contributions from Houston artists like Ack! (I own his custom deck by the way hehe).

Well, the true reason why I am posting this is because I've always wondered who made the highest bid for the skateboard deck I designed. It has always been a mystery to me. This lady from Spacetaker.org told me that she'll send me an email of the buyer but she never did. So, now that I am writing about it and showing it to the vast viewers of the internet, I hope I can find the person who bought it.

5 - Better Than Being Naked

2008-07-14T03:10:00.004-05:00

On the weekend of July 11, I had the opportunity to shoot for a friend, Danny Nguyen, and his latest creations for Nguyen Nation at Club Status.

4 - From Squiggles to Circles

2008-07-06T01:20:00.002-05:00

Untitled I, II, and III

24x24x1.5

mixed media on canvas

These paintings are from the series of abstract expressionist paintings that I made from the whole ide of having marks evolve into an object that the viewer can recognize. They were all shown at the Artist Anonymous Association's OPEN STAGE event last June 6, 2008 at the Trinity Church of Downtown Houston. The Aquablue painting is currently being displayed at Javioca Coffee/Tapioca Shop at Highway 6.

The paintings are for sale. If you're interested, email me: matth3wmanalo@gmail.com

3 - Lawndale's The Big Show Entry

2008-07-05T14:30:00.003-05:00

Ideas, Thoughts, Dreams, Etc.
Mixed Media on Canvas
36 x 36 x 1.5

The painting was for the Lawndale Art Center's THE BIG SHOW. I didn't make the cut for it to be shown but it's okay. It's my first time joining this massive call for entries. I believe there was more than a thousand pieces submitted by artists around Houston. It would be a big honor if I got in so better luck next time.

The painting is more of abstract expressionist with a twist of figurative work. I was going through some type of depression, which help me inspire this painting. I wanted to give it a feel of "sketchbooky-ness" to it --like an antique paper. If you looked at Leonardo da Vinci's old drawings then you'd probably know where the writings and the colors come from. The rest of the imagery was made up from my mind as I went on with the painting. For a long time now, I've been using the "the plan is no plan" idea as my friend, Jonathan told me so. It took me about 40 hours to do this painting and I lost count with how many layers were put.

If you're interested in buying the painting, it's still available. Just email me: matth3wmanalo@gmail.com

2 - Paris Skate Deck Custom

2008-07-05T14:21:00.002-05:00

The Paris Skate Deck Custom
I used a skateboard that I've had. It's been used a bit for some parts. The first thing I did was take off the trucks then sanded it. After sanding, I wiped it with a damp cloth to take out the dust. Then I put acrylic gesso on it. For every layer, I sanded it to make it smooth. I put more than three layers to ensure the smooth surface. After that, I sprayed it with white paint. Once that's dry, I used charcoal for the drawing. I didn't really have a plan for it but I just went on and made it spontaneous. After that, I sealed the drawing with a fixative. Make sure to use it so the drawing won't smudge.
It took me around 25 hours of working on it. Gave it as a gift.

1 - UNENNUISM

2008-07-05T13:05:00.000-05:00

I suddenly had a wanting. A craving. An urge to do something or maybe write something.

Speak my mind out. Share. So here, welcome to Deconstractivism.

My name is Matt Manalo. I reside in Houston, Texas and I am an artist.

I do photography, illustration and painting.