Grit My Teeth

This Week In Athens

2012-03-02T12:00:00.000-05:00

I can't remember Greek words. It's really frustrating, but I can't remember Greek words. I ask people that speak Greek to teach me new words now and then, but within minutes I can't remember the word. I always thought it would be fun to learn a word every day, or have broken conversations with people who only speak Greek on a daily basis. Instead I find myself awkwardly staring at the Greek speaking people I interact with daily, not saying a word. I want to say something, but I can't think of a conversation starter. For some reason the only words I can remember are words that are inappropriate for that moment. I just got it in my head how to say "Thank God It's Friday" last Tuesday, and I've forgotten it again.

Later

Another Shirt I Just Designed

2012-02-29T12:00:00.000-05:00

Meta Shirt by bewarethecheese
See more Meta T-Shirts

I call it Meta Shirt.

Later

Slug Sketch

2012-02-28T12:00:00.000-05:00

Started to doodle a little again, and I just finished this little guy. Thought I'd share.

Later

This Week In Athens

2012-02-24T12:00:00.000-05:00

Well spring has sprung here in Athens, things are turning green and flowers are starting to bloom. Many assume this is the beginning of the long lovely weather we get here in Greece, but that's just not true. Spring in Greece is spectacular, summer on the other hand is a scorcher. Summer in Greece is like winter, only the opposite, the heat is oppressing, and it kills just about all plant life. No one wants to go outside, and although it look beautiful, that's just a tease, the moment you step outside you're skin starts to burn. So for now I'm going to enjoy the spring. I'm going to go outside, explore a new neighborhood or two, and maybe watch some strange Mediterranean plants grow.

Later

Another New T-Shirt

2012-02-23T12:00:00.000-05:00

Please Remember My Name by candycritic
Join one of the largest artist affiliate programs

I just got this huge brainwave of T-shirt ideas on the theme of sign people. If you like this one, or any other shirts I've designed please pick one up.

Later

A New Bathroom To Ad

2012-02-22T12:00:00.000-05:00

I'm not sure what this sign says, but it was over the air freshener over the toilet.

Click here to check out the Bathrooms I've Been To map.

Later

When Cross Lights Fail

2012-02-21T12:00:00.000-05:00

Last night while walking home from a wonderful meal at Pizza Hut, Allison noticed that a particular pair of street lights didn't seem to be working very well.

Sorry I couldn't get a better photo but I was trying to dodge cars at the time.

It's one thing for the lights to be turned off, it could be a power failure, or burnt out bulbs. What do you do when both lights are both on and then they both turn off?

Later

Signs I Like

2012-02-20T12:00:00.000-05:00

Carnival is coming up here in Greece, and so is the new obsession with very creepy clown signs.

Later

This Week In Athens

2012-02-17T12:00:00.000-05:00

As far was what happened in the city of Athens this past week, I think this picture pretty much sums it up.

As for me personally, I'm doing OK. In fact I've got a few more art projects on the go, the possibility of another art show has come up, and I've been doodling like crazy. It's strange how sometimes your outside surroundings can have a strange effect on you. You would think I would be in a panic about what's going on in Athens right now, but I'm not. Instead I'm inspired to work on the projects I have going, and determined to figure out some of the issues I have logistically with some of the projects I've been avoiding.

I've also been eating a lot of oranges lately, I'm not sure what that means, but I thought I would share.

Later

Willie Nelson Covering Coldplay...

2012-02-16T12:00:00.000-05:00

Not only is this cover amazing, the video is really cool too.

Later

I'm Making Some New T-Shirts

2012-02-15T12:00:00.000-05:00

Please Do Not State The Obvious by candycritic
See more Funny T-Shirts

It's the first in a series that I'm working on. Pick one up and help support your favorite artist.

Later

Happy Valentines Day

2012-02-14T12:00:00.000-05:00

I'm feeling pretty good about Valentines Day this year.

Later

Signs I Like

2012-02-13T11:00:00.000-05:00

I envy any person that can read this sign.

Does Van Halen know that Volks Bank in Vienna is using their logo?

Von Kock... I giggle because I'm immature.

Later

This Week In Athens

2012-02-10T12:00:00.000-05:00

I don't really like writing about the economic problems here in Athens, but this week I just can't avoid it. At this point in my life I have to say that I officially have no idea what the heck is going on with the economy in Greece. More importantly I've lost track of all of the IMF's, EU Zones, and various other groups and regulators involved with this situation. I thought since I live in Greece it might be interesting to keep up with what's going on, but at this point I'm completely confused as to whom is who and who is meeting with who.

So I've officially signed off all my RSS feeds on the subject and I will no longer pay attention to these issues. Instead I'm just going to blissfully go out and take pictures of pretty things.

Later

Another Piece Of Art Finished

2012-02-09T12:00:00.000-05:00

I just finished another watercolor/photography piece. I think I'll call this one "Clergy".

You can check out other pieces at Beware The Cheese.

Later

New Photo From Senses Series and A New Look For Candy Critic

2012-02-07T12:00:00.000-05:00

I just finished my latest mixed media/photography piece and I'm calling it "Written Words". For now it's part of the series known as "Senses" but I might separate, along with several other pieces I've done, into a series called "From Stone".

But that isn't all the news, I've also just finished updating candycritic.org with a new look, new navigation, and it's now much simpler to check out candy reviews.

Later

Signs I Like

2012-02-06T12:00:00.000-05:00

What is Colonel Sanders doing with that child?

Like the sign, love the hat.

I'm wondering if the photography of the kid on the left really says "Lighting Style"?

Later

This Week In Athens

2012-02-03T12:00:00.001-05:00

Look closely, you can see the Acropolis.

I don't want to harp on this whole winter weather here in Athens, but I'm really sick of people envisioning me living in a tropical paradise. It's not to say that Greece has really bad weather, it's just not always perfect. In fact winter weather in Greece is cool, wet, and very, very grey. Sure the snow didn't stick, and it's now about 14 degrees outside, but it's not sunny, and you can't go swimming or anything.

The fact that it doesn't stay cold is part of the problem for me. I kind of wish it would stick for a little while so I could go out sledding, make a snow man, or even just make one snow ball. In no time this snow is puddles of water all over the city, and these puddles make the marble sidewalks very slippery. And for some reason Europeans have a love of running shoes with little to no grip. This does nothing to keep me from falling on my ass.

Later

I Like To Learn About Math, I Like Spongebob Squarepants...

2012-02-02T12:00:00.000-05:00

I'm not sure how I feel about this complaint, but I appreciate the anybody who notices little details.

Later

Dear Greek Ministry of Tourism...

2012-01-31T10:00:00.000-05:00

Snow on my balcony this morning.

I know that times are tough in Greece right now, and gaining the tourist dollar is very important to you right now, but I have a humble request. Please tell people around the world that it actually gets kind of cold here in Greece. I know it's not really the image you want to portray of your country, and I know tourist flock here to see the wonders that are the islands, the countryside, and the monuments, all things that are wonderful to see on a warm spring afternoon. My problem however, a selfish one at that, is with my friends and family (most of whom live in Canada). My friends and family keep telling me how lucky I am to be living in such a warm environment, and many believe that Greece is actually a tropical climate. So when I complain that today is a little cold, I'm instantly mocked and told that I'm being silly. The reason I'm asking you, the Greek Ministry of Tourism, to tell people that it actually gets cold her in Greece, is so my friends might have an appreciation of the fact that I brought my warm winter clothes for a reason, and that it's not warm here every single day. If you are unable to launch a campaign that points this out to the world, a simple letter to my friends and family will suffice.

Your friend
Chris Stewart

Signs I Like

2012-01-27T12:00:00.000-05:00

Wolfrum is a funny word, the banana makes it funnier.

I believe this sign is warning me about tree snakes.

Sometimes it's better when you can't read the sign and you can only interpret what you think the pictures mean.

Later

Who Said "There's No Such Thing As Free Onions"?

2012-01-25T10:00:00.000-05:00

This morning I wandered to Syntagma square here in Athens, only to see a large crowd of people gathering.

As always, a crowd in Syntagma means that someone is protesting something, but today it was different. Today it was less about the throwing rocks and shooting tear gas, and more about...

Free onions!

There were trucks full of food and they were giving it away.

It's apparently a protest from farmers, although I'm not really sure what free onions symbolizes.

But who can complain about free onions?

Later

Signs I Like

2012-01-20T12:00:00.000-05:00

Potato Jim is the perfect name for a place that sells potatoes and is owned by someone named Jim.

Beware of kids from the 70s just hanging out.

I love this illustration.

Later

For All of Your Star Wars/Techno Music Needs

2012-01-19T12:00:00.000-05:00

Not posting too much this week, too much on the go with updating Candy Critic with a new look and working on some new art. I came across this techno remix of the Star Wars cantina song, it made me smile.

Later

Signs I Like

2012-01-13T12:00:00.000-05:00

I kept joking with people before leaving Austria that I wanted to hold a koala or see a kangaroo while in Austria thinking it was even somewhat an original idea. Then when we got there, the place was full of these t-shirts.

Silhouettes of dogs taking poops make me giggle uncontrollably all of the time.

This is an awesome noodle vessel.

Later

Turtle Sex Is Fine Art

2012-01-12T12:00:00.000-05:00

Or so this statue found in the gardens of one of Vienna's palaces would lead me to believe.

Later

Mozart Goes Bananas

2012-01-11T12:00:00.000-05:00

While in Vienna a stop to Mozart's grave is a must. It's a little complicated to find, only because he's buried in one spot (sort of) but the main memorial to him is in another graveyard all together. To make sure we had our bases covered Allison and I decided to visit both graveyards. The photo above is the memorial in the graveyard where he is actually said to be buried (they're not really sure exactly where he's buried in the grave yard. All of this searching around was a little strange, but not nearly as strange as what we found lying at this memorial.

Somebody has appeared to leave a bunch of bananas as a tribute to Mozart. Now I'm not really up on my Mozart history, so I'm not really sure if bananas have some kind historical importance to the man. It seems a little strange, but what do I know.

Later

Meta Mouse

2012-01-10T12:00:00.000-05:00

So here's a mouse holding a block of cheese. On this block of cheese, there's another mouse, only this mouse is mouse sized compared to the larger mouse. This whole display blew my mind.

Later

Disturbing Door Knocker

2012-01-09T12:00:00.000-05:00

I'm not sure if I feel comfortable pulling on this string.

Later

Signs I Like

2012-01-06T12:00:00.000-05:00

No dogs, don't litter, no drugs, don't kick and break things... One of these should be pretty obvious.

I'm thinking that 1.80 Euro is pretty pricey for a "Fahrt".

Is that a photo of Jesus as a baby?

Later

Need Milk Now?

2012-01-05T12:00:00.000-05:00

I went to a store that sold carts for bringing home groceries. They had all kinds of fancy and fun patterns and pictures, including this one:

I'm not sure if I want to walk around with a suckling cow on my grocery bag. Although it would be appropriate if you were bringing home milk.

Later

The Coolest Poster Ever Made

2012-01-04T12:00:00.000-05:00

I want to quickly give you a few examples as to why this poster is the coolest poster ever made.

First of all, it features Mecha-Godzilla ridding an elephant. While the house is also featured on the elephant, I believe that the house is more of a decoration than a feature.

While Mr Mech-Zilla is ridding the elephant, a baboon friend is spinning fresh beats on another elephant. I also thought that I should mention that the elephants are both African elephants, which in my opinion are the coolest of all elephants.

If this isn't enough for you, then maybe the Owl giving a press conference... or maybe he's reading poetry? Either way, an owl giving a lecture is pretty cool in my opinion. These are only a few of the details of this poster that make it so awesome, there is also a lion on a strange recliner, a koala climbing a termite hill in front of a photo of Salvador Dali, and many other strange things going as well.

Later

Signs I Like

2011-12-30T13:49:00.000-05:00

And we all go "Voorrang"!

Space invaders are always welcome.

Best pub name ever?

I not only saw this in Belgium, but then I saw it again a few weeks later on the Amazing Race. Tin Tin is just that awesome!

Later

How You Know You're In An Authentic European City

2011-12-26T12:00:00.000-05:00

Tonight while walking the streets in search of a quick meal, a horse drawn carriage hopped the curb and almost took me out. I was going to yell at the guy but my German in this area of conversation is weak, and I was also kind of freaked out at how cool the entire situation was.

Later

Signs I Like

2011-12-23T13:48:00.000-05:00

My craving for a random octopi is now filled.

I always "need food".

Here's a list of banned carry on items when you fly. Why in the world would someone have to carry on a hacksaw. I think this item should be banned not because it's dangerous, but because I don't want people sawing wood in the seat next to me.

Later

Have a Great Christmas

2011-12-23T12:00:00.000-05:00

I'm not sure who reads this blog, but I sure hope you have a nice Christmas.

Later

The Smells Of Athens

2011-12-22T11:08:00.000-05:00

Travel writers often describe Athens as a city of "contradiction" and say that "it plays with your senses". When you read things like that in travel books you figure it's covering up for something really bad or that the travel writer just wanted to sound like a novelist. The thing is Athens is a place of great contradiction and I have the perfect example. As I walked out of my apartment last night into what I can only describe as insane and dangerous traffic, I smelled the best bakery smell that I've ever smelled before. The strange thing is, there is no bakery for more than a block from my front door, only traffic. This leads me to believe that the people of Athens might be developing the first and only cookie powered car.

Later

Sex and Christmas

2011-12-21T12:00:00.000-05:00

I never really associate sex and Christmas together. It appears that the manufacturers of these Christmas ornaments have a very different opinion on the subject.

Later

A Crazy Man Yelled At Me Today

2011-12-20T12:00:00.000-05:00

I was walking down an Athens Street when a crazy man walked by me and yelled at me. I can only assume he was crazy because he yelled at me in English. It was oddly comforting to have a crazy man yell at you in your native tongue when you live in a place where many don't speak your language. I wonder if he knew what he was saying, and I wonder if he knew how much he made my day.

Later

Simple Beautiful.

2011-12-19T12:00:00.000-05:00

TimeScapes 4K from Tom Lowe on Vimeo.

I'm not sure if this movie will be particularly interesting plot wise, but I'm pretty sure it'll look great.

Later

Signs I Like

2011-12-16T13:47:00.000-05:00

True.

This is either a great name for a play, or the worst name ever for a jewelry store.

I think it would be most appropriate if this sign for the dog play area in the park was more realistic. I think a dog taking a dump and somebody slipping in it would work.

Later

Chris' Etiquette Tip

2011-12-15T13:39:00.000-05:00

When it comes to eating at other people's house, unless you have something good to say, it's better to say nothing at all. People work hard picking out the food they give you, and those that do badly probably over think the whole situation and get themselves into trouble. On a similar note, if you happen to be throwing a party, and you ask your guests what they thought of your food, they will lie if they have to. It's not bad to lie to a host about their food, it's expected. Knowing this is frustrating for a host, but it's the truth. If you happen to invite me to your house for a dinner party, and you want the truth about your food, I will also lie.

These tips are fairly prolific, aren't they?

Later

Traffic Bad Where You Live?

2011-12-14T12:00:00.000-05:00

This morning when you went to work did you pay attention? Did you complain that the traffic where you live is the worst in the whole world? Take a look at this movie and tell me it was worse than this.

Later

Bridge Overkill

2011-12-13T11:01:00.000-05:00

This bridge may not seem like much, but in my mind it holds a worlds record.

It's not the tallest, or longest bridge I've ever seen.

As a bridge it pretty much just serves its purpose of getting people across 6 lanes of busy traffic.

Where this bridge is more than any other bridge is in the options you have to make your way to the top. First of all there are two elevators... at each end. So that's a total of 4 elevators.

It also has an escalator at both ends, just in case.

Finally it has stairs, which would probably be enough, but I'm sure they wanted to give people as many options as possible. Missing as an option are a rope ladder, firemen's pole, and twisty slide.

Later

Cool Bathroom Sign

2011-12-12T11:36:00.000-05:00

I should first of all mention that the logo for the restaurant where this sign is located is a flame. See, they made the sign guys beard out of the flame logo... clever.

Click here to check out where this place is on the Bathrooms I've Been To map.

Later

Wednesday's Art Show

2011-12-09T14:00:00.000-05:00

I just thought I'd share a few photos from my art show last Wednesday at the Canadian Institute in Greece. Here's me with Ambassador (of the Embassy of Canada in Greece) and Mrs. Peck talking a bit about my stuff.

It was a seriously packed house that night. So packed that I'm hoping that some of the people come back (as it's showing till next week) because they really couldn't see all the art. Well over a hundred people showed up and it was a grand success. Best of all many friends came by, and I also made many new friends.

Jonathan, the assistant director of the Canadian Institute, was nice enough to take lots of pictures, including these of the set up.

I'm very thankful to all involved and really happy that everybody seemed to have a really good time.

Later

Signs I Like

2011-12-09T13:46:00.000-05:00

Nothings can cause more accidents on a highway than this sign.

I love demented french fry signs.

What does Freddy Kruger have on tap for us today dear?

Later

Chris's Etiquette Tips

2011-12-08T11:00:00.000-05:00

How can I put this lightly... When visiting others, particularly in a formal setting, make sure that you only use the water closet facilities to the lightest degree possible. In not so formal terms, unless it's absolutely necessary don't drop a deuce when at a social event. Sure there are times when lightning strikes and there's nothing you can do, but if possible prepare yourself. If you have other alternatives take them. You never know what the plumbing, ventilation, and soundproofing is going to be and that can always lead to polite embarrassment. We've all seen it happen, even though most of us say nothing.

Hey that was a great tip, wasn't it? More to come later.

Later

History Lesson in a Few Minutes

2011-12-07T13:44:00.000-05:00

I believe this is accurate and complete.

Later

Tomorrow Is My Show

2011-12-06T16:06:00.000-05:00

Now if you tell me that you couldn't make it to the premier of my latest art show "Senses" at the Canadian Institute in Greece tomorrow (December 7th) because you didn't know about it, I'm going to call shenanigans on you. I've been posting regularly all month about this show. Now don't get all sad about being too far away, or having other plans, that's just too bad for you. The only thing you can do is ask your local gallery owner if they could possibly put on this show when and where it's convenient to you.

Hey guys, if you can't make it to the show, you can check out our live feed from the show on December 7th at 7:30 Athens time.

Click here for more information about the show.

Later

This Just In...

2011-12-05T14:30:00.000-05:00

This weeks Athens News did a whole piece about me. I'm super happy with it, and totally shocked about how much coverage I got.

I got a brief mention in the index.

I got a short listing on the cover of the city guide.

And a half page article. I'm flattered and I hope my show can hold up to all this great press.

If you want to read the article, click here.

Later

Signs I Like

2011-12-02T13:45:00.000-05:00

I'm not sure if this was graffiti or a sign for some kind of art exhibit. Either way it was fantastic.

Best use of an "o" in a porn shop sign.

Why do they have seats for people in wheelchairs?

Later

Cute Little Monster Movie

2011-12-01T11:00:00.000-05:00

End of a Scarer from Chris O'Hara on Vimeo.

This movie is not only funny but a great look at how the Hollywood movie industry is failing us.

Later

Chris's Etiquette Tips

2011-12-01T10:48:00.000-05:00

If you're at a party and you think that either a nose hair, or booger, is sticking out of your nose, do not investigate with your finger. This may not be easy to do, but you must fight the urge. Sometimes these boogers/nose hairs feel like their protruding, but in fact they may not be visible. However the finger you use to investigate the problem will most certainly be visible. The best coarse of action to to find a mirror or reflective surface to investigate the dangling problem.

Another tip, another coming later.

Later

Senses Will Be Showing In Athens On December 7th!

2011-11-30T15:57:00.000-05:00

Well next week is my big art show. I'm very excited about it going up and I sure hope you (and all of the friends you've told) can make it. Don't worry about buying anything, I understand times are tough. However if you do buy something, I plan on donating a portion to the Canadian Institute in Greece's library. It allows students to study in a great environment with great material. So come on out, say hello, and maybe touch some art work, I know you want to.

Click here for more information about the show.

Later

Bathroom Decorations

2011-11-29T14:49:00.000-05:00

I love a good restaurant bathroom that looks exactly like every other restaurant bathroom except for one small detail. Sometimes it's a light fixture, sometimes it's a small pot of plants, and sometimes it's a piece of art, but I always apparetiate the effort.

Click here to check out the latest Bathroom I've Been Too.

Later

Mike Tyson Wrote The Lyrics... Sort Of

2011-11-28T10:46:00.000-05:00

This'll be stuck in my head for a few days.

Later

Signs I Like

2011-11-25T10:00:00.000-05:00

Batman live in Bruges... Culture has no limits.

I love this mural.

I'm not sure what this says, but I assume it's worth more than "spit".

Later

Chris's Etiquette Tips

2011-11-24T11:04:00.000-05:00

Don't say "That's F---ed up!" when referring to the way someone does business, talks, walks, dances, eats, combs his/her hair, dresses, listens, sleeps, or describes his childhood memories. In fact there are rarely any occasion where such a reaction is acceptable. If you do find yourself about to say such a thing just remember, you're just as f---ed up as they are only in a different way.

This is just another of my many etiquette tips.

Later

Senses Will Be Showing In Athens On December 7th!

2011-11-23T14:51:00.000-05:00

Some people have sent me e-mail telling me that I shouldn't post my art online. They tell me "no one will come to the show if they can see it online". Is this true, are you collecting my art on your computer so you don't have to come out to a fun night of art and nice people? That's a little crazy if you ask me. I think it would be good for you to come out to the Canadian Institute in Greece on December 7th and meet some nice people and see art that isn't on a computer monitor.

Click here for more details about the show.

Later

Crazy Art I Saw In Belgium - Part 7

2011-11-23T12:00:00.000-05:00

I'm no art expert at all. Sure I make art all the time, but frankly I have no idea what's good art and what's bad art. I just make things that I like and hope others feel the same way. On my recent trip to Belgium I came across a lot of art, and much of this art was a little strange to me. I'm not saying it was bad, I'm just saying that I don't understand the narrative that the artist was trying to get across.

Sure half a horse is a strange idea for a piece of art, but not that strange. Why not make his saddle look like two planks of wood making for a very uncomfortable place to sit? That's strange, wouldn't you say? The thing is this piece of art goes from kind of strange, to very strange, to not strange at all, then back to strange again. After dealing with the shock of being puzzled by this piece I decided to read the plaque next to it. Apparently back in the old days a common torture was to make men sit on two planks of wood, similar to the ones on this horse. They would have to sit on the planks and would sometimes have weights on their ankles, not fun. So this piece of art is supposed to represent that torture. See, it was kind of strange (a half a horse), then really strange (the wooden saddle), then not strange at all (a little piece of history), finally strange again (why would you want a piece of art representing that kind of torture?).

Later

Crazy Art I Saw In Belgium - Part 6

2011-11-22T12:00:00.000-05:00

When I first approached this statue I thought the guy was holding a large severed hand. Then I got a little closer and I doubted that anybody would create such a strange statue in a large public square. Then I got even closer and realized that, yes in fact, someone had decided to depict a man throwing another mans severed hand.

Later

Crazy Art I Saw In Belgium - Part 5

2011-11-21T12:00:00.000-05:00

How come no one finds naked babies offensive if their situated in a fountain? How come no one cares about the abuse of sea turtle either? If I recreated this statue in photographic form, even using photoshop as to not hurt any children or turtles, I would have the authorities at my door in a matter of minutes. However if I sculpt this, put it outside for the public to see, next to a fake pond, it's art.

Later

Crazy Art I Saw In Belgium - Part 4

2011-11-18T12:00:00.001-05:00

Many cities all over the world have a piece of art that they are well known for. Paris has the Mona Lisa, Rome has the Trevi Fountain and Brussels has Manneken Pis. You would hope that the name was an unfortunate choice for a beautiful piece of art, but not so. This statue of a little boy peeing is the symbol of not just the city of Brussels, but this entire country.

People crowd around this statue and line the streets wanting to glimpse an artistic rendition of a little boy taking a wiz.

Even large corporations use it to advertise. This coke machine has to be one of the worst ideas I've ever seen. I'm not sure if a little boy peeing into a coke bottle is really the image you want to promote.

Local restaurants use it as well. I wonder what a french fry extrudes, mashed potatoes, mayonnaise, if he's unhealthy maybe ketchup?

You pretty much can't turn a corner without seeing a rendition of a little boy peeing. It makes me feel uncomfortable as a grown man, and makes me feel like I have to pee pretty much constantly.

Later

Signs I Like

2011-11-18T09:17:00.000-05:00

That Sod must be awesome.

I love signs for restaurants that are dwarfed by signs for drinks.

If I ever move to Ghent, this is where I want to live.

Later

Chris's Etiquette Tips

2011-11-17T13:57:00.000-05:00

If someone whispers in your ear "Look, there's the president of (Insert any country name)." Don't yell: "I've always wanted to meet that guy, do you really think that's his real wife?"

Do I have more tips? You bet I do.

Later

Crazy Art I Saw In Belgium - Part 3

2011-11-17T12:00:00.000-05:00

This might be one of the first pieces of modern art that I was able to "figure out". Sure it looks like a random grouping of steel beams and half circles but look closer. I think it's and octopus. I'm not sure why an office complex would want a giant steel octopus, but I can't argue that they are one of the creepiest cool animals in the world.

Later

Senses Will Be Showing In Athens On December 7th!

2011-11-16T14:46:00.000-05:00

So maybe you don't live in Greece (or close enough to commute), maybe you live in Delaware, Ottawa, or Kalamazoo. That doesn't mean you can't help me promote my art show premiering at the Canadian Institute in Greece on December 7th. Why not tell a friend about it, maybe they have friends or family nearby. They would enjoy a night out filled with culture and fun art, wouldn't they. Why would you want to deny those nice people you don't even know a good night out?

Click here for more details about the show.

Later

Crazy Art I Saw In Belgium - Part 2

2011-11-16T12:00:00.000-05:00

This piece confused me because I really couldn't tell if it was a full statue, or a bust with feet. In Greece they have busts that feature on the head and the genitals, so I thought this might be something similar. The shape of the stand made me think it was a full statue, but then I couldn't figure out why the arms are missing.

Later

Crazy Art I Saw In Belgium - Part 1

2011-11-15T12:00:00.000-05:00

Modern art for the most part confuses me, or at the very least the message it tries to convey confuses me. I often like what I see, but I just don't understand why it was made, or why it might represent social injustice. This mishmash of brightly coloured wood is a perfect example of this.

This blob of wooden sticks looks pretty cool covering the street. I noticed it from several blocks away and walked out of my way to check it out.

I'm not sure what it represents or why it was built, but I wasn't disappointed or offended by it.

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Time-laps and Space... Yup That's Awesome

2011-11-14T12:00:00.000-05:00

Earth | Time Lapse View from Space, Fly Over | NASA, ISS from Michael König on Vimeo.

I love this video and could watch it all day long, in fact, I think I will.

Later

Signs I Like

2011-11-11T10:13:00.000-05:00

"Do not step on the ancient remains".

Speaking of ancient, I love these old fashion signs from days of yore.

Nur Fur?

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Chris's Etiquette Tips

2011-11-10T10:29:00.000-05:00

Holy crap that's weird! This is generally not a good thing to say at any point at a formal party or in public. If you happen to find yourself in a strange situation, meeting a strange person, seeing strange art, or eating strange food, it's a good idea to have a "safe expression of fear". Teach yourself to use this expression all of the time, even at home. "Hey, that's different", or "Interesting", goes over much better in these situations. If you practice your "safe expression of fear" at home, in no time it will become second nature. This will be handy because strange things don't often come announced, and you wouldn't want to offend.

I've got a bunch more etiquette tips on the way.

Later

Senses Will Be Showing In Athens On December 7th!

2011-11-09T14:43:00.000-05:00

Seriously, if you find yourself in Athens on December 7th why not stop by the premier showing of my photographic/mixed media show called "Senses". If you mention this blog post I'll give you a hug and a gummy bear for coming.

Click here for more information about the show.

Later

Signs I Like

2011-11-04T22:28:00.000-04:00

I sometimes wonder why people put this kind of artwork up in the streets when it could be hung in a gallery.

I'm not making fun of the German language, but when you read it in English it's hilarious.

A sign of the times here in Athens.

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Chris's Etiquette Tips

2011-11-03T10:23:00.000-04:00

Do you have trouble remembering peoples names, I sure do. That is why I have a large collection of expressions that can substitute for names. The expression more people least suspect as being an excuse that you forgot their name, is the playful use of the word "Sir" or "Mam" (Not Mum, but "Mam" as in "ham"). It's both respectful and fun, at the same time. Another option is to study the proper use of official titles. If you happen to be at a party full of judges, "your honor" is always fun, political types always like "your excellency". You can also go more casual with the title, such as President, or you Majesty...

I'll have more excellent etiquette tips later.

Later

Cotton

2011-11-02T14:45:00.000-04:00

This weekend I saw a cotton field, a cotton truck, and cotton farmers. The farmers where harvesting the cotton with giant cotton combines. They would then load the cotton trucks that would drive away littering the roads with cotton balls. This weekend I got to see where q-tips, t-shirts, and makeup cleaning puff balls are grown. Is this a little strange, or is it just me?

Later

Senses Will Be Showing In Athens On December 7th!

2011-11-02T14:37:00.000-04:00

Tell your friends, tell your neighbors, tell that strange guy that keeps staring at you in the donut shop, December 7th at 7:30 at the Canadian Institute in Greece, my art show "Senses" will premier.

Click here for more information.

Later

The Oracle Peed Here... Well Close To Here

2011-11-01T10:50:00.000-04:00

In ancient times many famous people passed through Delphi. Now, in the future, I have too, I also made a pit stop at a couple of places as well.

Isn't history fun?

Click here to check out some new bathrooms on the bathrooms I've been to map.

Later

I'm An Old Man

2011-10-31T14:21:00.000-04:00

Last night I was hanging out with some friends and I decided to head home early. I jokingly told them that I was an "old man", they agreed, but assured me that I was their "favorite old man". I left the get together feeling good about myself, I figured that our little joke about me being an old man was nothing to think about. Then today, two things happened that made me feel like maybe it wasn't much of a joke.

First of all I was ridding a subway when I saw a guy that to me looked really old and feeble. The thing is I looked at him, then I looked at his clothes and I thought to myself, man that guy is dressed exactly like I would dress. I thought about it for a minute, and then I figured it was just a fluke and went on with my day. The final straw came when I was walking through a subway station and a girl came up to me with balloons celebrating Google's new metro coverage on Google Maps. She approached me as asked if I knew about the new feature on Google Maps, she then sized me up, and instead of giving me a fun balloon, she pulled this very dull button out of her pocket and gave it to me. I guess she figured I was too old for a balloon. The worst part of this whole situation is how happy I was about getting the button over the balloon.

Later

Signs I Like

2011-10-28T17:39:00.000-04:00

Smurf head scares me.

Another awesome soccer sign update.

This train car is not just "heavy", it's "Super Heavy".

Later

Chris's Etiquette Tips

2011-10-27T10:17:00.000-04:00

Eat food at receptions. You would think that this goes without saying, but many feel uncomfortable eating food at receptions, trust me I did. Soon I realized that people really like it when you eat their food, even hors d'oeuvre. People put a lot of work into the planning of food, and seeing people eat it is gratifying. I also realized that gaining a reputation as being the guy who loves food at receptions has its benefits, including being directed to the buffet before everyone else. The only downfall to this plan is the fact that you will be served food that will frighten you. Suck it up, the good stuff will be great, and the bad stuff will be a good story for a future reception.

I'll be back, with more etiquette tips.

Later

Don't Buy a Lifetime Supply of Anything

2011-10-26T10:15:00.000-04:00

A few years back I was at Costco and I noticed that they had q-tips on sale. If you bought two boxes you go a third for free. I like to use three q-tips every time I take a shower. I won't go into detail about what I use them for because frankly people will either be grossed out or tell me how wrong I am. So when I saw this sale on q-tips I thought I would stock up. In fact I did a little math in my head and estimated how many q-tips I would need for the rest of my life. I figured that they don't go bad, and chances are with the way regular economic inflation works, I'd never see them that cheap again. So I bought the appropriate number of boxes that I estimated I would need for the rest of my life. It sounds like a good idea, but there is one very depressing thing I had never thought of. Every time I finish one of the boxes of q-tips I can see how much closer I am to death. As the pile of boxes shrinks, I get a little nervous and sad. I think when I hit the halfway point in my collection of q-tips I will sit in a chair and freak out for a few weeks. So, no matter how good the deal, never buy a life time supply of anything.

Later

Lemon Sketch

2011-10-25T10:38:00.000-04:00

I did a sketch to plan a photo and as it turns out I like the sketch more than the photo.

Later

The 48 Hour Strike That Ended on Day 3

2011-10-24T10:35:00.000-04:00

So the smoke burned during the sunset on the 48th hour. The protests, the strikes, and the chaos was supposed to calm down.

There was some damage, one death, and a lot of uncertainty.

So on day 3 the strikes continued (in a lesser form), buildings remained occupied, and protests continued to fill the streets.

Wonder what's going to happen next week.

Later

Signs I Like

2011-10-21T10:38:00.000-04:00

Look out!... It's a screaming cat!

Does the guy who drew this picture even know what poop looks like?

I love cola, I love retro looking signs, win!

Later

48 Hour Strike Day 2

2011-10-20T11:16:00.005-04:00

So I had some friends over that live in the neighborhood to watch any of the strike stuff. Apparently lots happened but nothing that produces enough smoke or noise to be seen from my place.

That was until everyone left.

Then the smoke started to rise... Figures.

Later

Chris's Etiquette Tips

2011-10-20T10:07:00.000-04:00

This one is for the fellas... If you happen to be going to an event for your wife's work, when possible, don't wear a tie. If you dress just a little more casual than your wife people will not mistake you for a person that has some kind of education/general idea of smart topics. If you look like you belong in the high end job market with knowledge of economies and such, you will be asked questions. Instead, make sure the smarter of the two of you looks the part.

Stay tuned for more etiquette tips.

Later

48 Hour Strike Day 1

2011-10-19T09:04:00.000-04:00

This morning I knew it was going to be one of those fun Greek days. Lots of Police lined up and ready, lots of street closures as well.

There's also the strikes, the part that drives me most nuts. Garbage pick up hasn't happened in more than a week. Today the transit is limited, no taxis, no stores open, no banks, hospitals are running minimally, air traffic controllers are on strike, lawyers and pharmacists are on strike, and customs officials are on strike. Fortunately we knew this was coming so food wise we're OK. I find it amazing how busy (both car and people traffic) it is considering the only thing open is restaurants.

There was also the standard protest at Syntagma square with flash bombs, stun grenades, Molotov cocktails, and tear gas. I did notice however that the news about this has calmed down a lot. I think the poignancy of these protests has started to wear off for international news stations. Will there be more tomorrow?

Later

It's Going To Get Interesting

2011-10-18T12:31:00.000-04:00

Over the next few days, Athens Greece is going to be a hotbed for protests and strikes. I know the US is starting to act up, and I respect the fact that it's a new thing for you, so these actions seem humongous. However I have to say that over the next two days in Greece, things are going to get very heavy indeed. While I don't suspect that I will be in danger at any time (I'm not going to run out into the protest hot spots), I do imagine that I'll have quite the show to watch. Or at least this is what the media is telling me, they could be lying though, after all, they're going on strike too.

I guess I'll post what I see.

Later

I've Mopped Myself Into a Corner...

2011-10-17T09:27:00.001-04:00

Thank god for wireless internet and Gatorade. Without those two things I think I'd probably be dead, or at the very least extremely bored.

P.S. please do not call me for the next 20 minutes... if you need me urgently please e-mail, since I can't get to my phone right now.

Later

Signs I Like

2011-10-14T10:35:00.000-04:00

This might be the worst drawing of the Pink Panther ever.

I love how someone graciously fixed the Photoshop error.

What the heck is a "Pizza Kebab"?

Later

This Week In Athens

2011-10-14T06:48:00.001-04:00

This week was week full of many a strike,
The garbage piled up all day and all night.
No buses, taxis, trolleys or trains,
And in the squares many did complain.

And then today some jets flew by,

Very close to the city they did fly.

I thought the enemy they were trying to bash,

Or maybe they came to pick up my trash.

Later

This Weekend In Cypruss

2011-10-13T14:52:00.000-04:00

This weekend in Cyprus my photograph "Gourds" will be up at the "Marchés en plein air" Art Show in Nicosia. If you happen to be in the area check it out. Also, make sure to check out my friend Jane's photo at the same show.

Later

Click here to buy a copy of this print.

Chris's Etiquette Tips

2011-10-13T10:05:00.000-04:00

When you're at a large party always make sure you have a drink that it almost empty. It will benefit you in many ways:

First of all, if a sudden toast happens to come up, you'll have something to drink.

Secondly, hosts will feel more comfortable if they see you have something in your hands.

Finally, and this is why it should be almost empty, if you get into a conversation that you want to leave, you can chug the last sip, and tell the person you're going for a refill. Go to the bar/refill station, refill, and promptly get dragged into another (hopefully more interesting) conversation.

Stay tuned for more rather inappropriate etiquette tips.

Later

Working On a New Idea

2011-10-12T14:06:00.000-04:00

I'm just perfecting this new idea I have for an art piece. Allison has graciously helped me test my prototype. She did a great job building it, I hope to make a few more improvements and have it done soon.

Later

Signs I Like

2011-10-07T10:31:00.000-04:00

Wall Panda loves us all.

Good advice if you ask me.

I have a new obsession, signs modified to look like people playing soccer.

Later

A Dark Bathroom

2011-10-06T11:57:00.000-04:00

Sometimes the lighting in bathrooms isn't really great for photogrpahy, but I'm thinking that's a good thing most of the time.

Click here to check out the latest addition to the "Bathrooms I've Been To" map.

Later

New Piece Of Art

2011-10-04T10:45:00.000-04:00

You really can't go wrong with gummy bears, and you can guarantee success if you make sure free gummy bears are available to all those checking out your art.

P.S. I will be showing this piece, as well as others from the "Senses" at a show on December 7th in Athens Greece. Click here for a few more details and stay tuned for more updates.

Later

Sesame Street Does Other Shows

2011-10-03T10:57:00.000-04:00

I love "The Office" sketch in this video.

On another Sesame Street note, check out this movie coming out, it looks great.

Later