The all new Series 4 TiVo Premiere

It was 10 years ago that the original TiVo debuted and changed our television watching habits forever.  I know it’s hard to believe, but there really was a time when you couldn’t watch your favorite TV shows whenever you wanted, and you actually had to sit through all the commercials.  The venerable old box has received a couple of upgrades over the years, but it seems like TiVo is looking to change the game again with the launch of the series 4 TiVo Premiere.

While older TiVo models allowed you to find your favorite cable or network TV shows and save them to a hard drive for later viewing, the Premiere goes all Emeril Lagasse and takes things up a notch.  In addition to all the useful TiVo features that came before, the now web connected, hi-def Premiere also allows you to access movies and TV shows from across the internet, including content from Netflix, Blockbuster, Amazon On Demand, Youtube, and video podcasts.  You can also stream music from Pandora Radio, Rhapsody, and Live 365.

The Premiere will come in two flavors.  The $300 standard version features up to 45 hours of HD recording, E-SATA for external storage, video output up to 1080p, and a single multistream CableCARD slot.  Meanwhile, the $500 XL version includes the same features while upping the recording time from 45 hours to 150 of HD recording, THX certification, and a backlit remote control.  Unfortunately neither version features Wi-Fi out the box, but it can be added by purchasing a $60 USB dongle.  Look for both to drop sometime in April.

Image Layouts: B.

I am aware there are a lot of Valentine’s Day haters out there, but I am not one of them. If you read my M.I.S.S. Muses post last week, you know my word is love, so a celebration of it is a-ok in my book. No, I have not been showered with gifts or suitors or hotties or something in my past or present. And no, I do not have some grand plan for celebrating this year. In fact, I counted back when I last had a Valentine, and that was 8 years ago. I just really like the idea of sharing love.

Some of you may need more reason to be into this “Hallmark holiday.” Luckily, a lovely gal made a video that depicts so much of why I love it! This week, Dice Suicide released a short video she made called “Sending My Love.” In it, she has a bunch of red balloons she hands out to random strangers in a park. Children, men, women, couples, singles, and even dogs get a little bit of love. The reactions from people are quite awesome and watching her unabashedly hand out balloons is inspiring to watch. People who would normally pass her by smile when they get a balloon. Some even come up to her to ask for one! People of all types are excited by a simple gesture.

Dice Suicide spreads love

Kids, couples, singles, and dogs all love

Why make this video? In Dice’s own words:

I wanted to do something simple and thoughtful that would make a BIG impact on many people. It was great to see how surprised everyone was, and putting all those smiles on people’s faces felt really wonderful.

It takes guts to put love out there. People are scared by the word “love” and its implications. There is a lot of bitterness, skepticism, and unmet expectations wrapped up in the thought of Valentine’s Day. But you know what? It doesn’t have to be like that. It can be simple, as Dice shows in her video. And she shows that by putting cheer and love out there, you get to feel it, too. To me, Valentine’s Day isn’t about having to send flowers or buy gifts. It’s not about having a date or proving something. It’s about celebrating love and sharing it with others.

Watching this video was so inspiring I’m seriously considering doing something like it. Watch for yourself and enjoy. And, if you’re inspired for more love after watching, listen to our M.I.S.S. pro-love playlist.

Happy Valentine’s Day, and wishing you love in your life.

I hope that everyone had an amazing set of Holidays and a safe New Years. I’d like to say good luck, good health and prosperity to everyone in 2010.

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”Paper Dolls” features new works on display at FIFTY24LA Gallery from January 14, 2010 through March 3, 2010.

A group exhibition of the artists’ interpretation of the paper doll. If you didn’t know there are some HUGE names in this show: Toofly, Claw Money, INSA, Kerin-Rose, Indie184, Lanie Alabanza-Barcena, Queen Andrea, Fawn Gehweiler and many more.  Also, M.I.S.S.’s very own Kim “The Hotstepper” Jefferson and Lexx Valdez have curated this show. What an amazing way to kick off the art New Year.

Opening/Downtown LA Art Walk: Thursday, January 14, 2010
Second Opening/Downtown LA Art Walk: Thursday, February 11, 2010

FIFTY24LA GALLERY
125 East 6th Street
Los Angeles, CA 90014
213.623.4300
Tuesday – Saturday 12 to 6

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Finally, Bebe is cool again (I used to love Bebe to bits when I was in high school).  Look at her! She is so hot, I’m not sure if it’s the apparel or the mock tattoos. Probably the latter, since Mike Giant hand did them himself. Here’s something that was brought to our attention that had us wide eyed with oohs and aahs. Posted by Joshy D. of Rebel8 (which is Joshy D. x Mike Giant) .

I posted a sneak peek of what Mike Giant is hooking me up with for my new house via Twitter. Here is the final and full version. It was cut down slightly from the original, huge bus shelter poster size, but it’s still large and the best damn bebe ad ever. Thanks Mike! You da best.

And he is right, this is the best Bebe ad ever.

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Straight from the horse’s mouth:

Me and a few friends will be showing work @ the Bo Concepts pop up shop on Western Ave right between Madison and Marion St.The space is amazing and it should be a good mix between photography,paintings,installation and what ever the fuck I decide to show.I would love to see you all there I took a big role in the curation of this show trying to show case artist’s that I respect and I think you will as well. Opening reception is from 7-10 and will coincide with all other First Thursday Galleries plus it’s like a block away from the 619 Loft Space.

909 Western Ave.

Seattle, WA 98104

Jan. 7th-Jan 31st

7-10pm

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We are closed for the rest of January as we are making some changes to the space and we will re-open on February 4th for:

SNAKES in the GRASS
a photography show from
Massan Fluker
featuring PEZ

Lots more info to come in the next weeks!

WE ARE MAKING SOME CHANGES TO EVER GOLD!

Volunteers needed for helping us make changes to our space from Saturday, January 8th- the 17th. Food and drink provided in exchange for labor.

please call Greg at 310-869-0993 to let us know what days and hours you can help out!

Ever Gold Gallery

441 O’Farrell St.

San Francisco, CA 94102

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This should be a really good show considering that Vancouver is notorious for having the same artists at every show. To be honest, I only recognize two names from this roster. Refreshing to say the least. I’m excited to check this out during my next visit. Bummed that I can’t be there for the opening reception, but that’s life.  If you are in Vancouver, go!

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We will also be accepting donations of old blankets to give to shelters so dogs don’t have to sleep on cold concrete floors
as well as old/new pet beds, towels, comforters, treats, toys, leashes, collars and carriers/crates
(please bring all you can weekend of Jan. 9th/10th).
http://operationblanketsoflove.org/
20% of all proceeds will be donated to Born Free USA

Look for exclusive prints from Amy Sol, Liz McGrath and Buff Monster
to be released during the opening reception (more details announced soon)
John Park will be painting live opening night out front our gallery
We will also have the Little Spoon Desserts Truck out serving up all kinds of delicious goodness from 7-10PM

Strangest Angels Animal Rescue (dogs and cats)
http://strangestangels.org/
Bunny World Foundation (Baby Bunnies Rescue)
http://www.bunnyworldfoundation.org/
Life 4 Paws (small dogs)

http://www.life4paws.org/

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With the recent fiasco involving Robbo and Banksy we thought that was enough already, well a favorite Parisian graff artist of mine (and probably yours) had recently had the same done to her. Fafi’s mural in Mexico was violated as well. Here’s what Fafi had to say:

As far as I am concerned I like to think people can play with my stuff in the street, If I wouldn’t want my paintings to be covered by others or even played with, I would stay in my studio and paint for myself, it’s just that sometimes it’s better done than others, isn’t it ?

If you really wanna play with the Fafinettes, you’d better be either witty or talented.  This mural is was in Mexico DF.

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Art Of Facts (Feat. FUTURA) from 13thWitness™ on Vimeo.

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I still can only come up with two words when I think of the works of Lee Renninger: wonderful and intricate.  Here is Renninger’s statement:

For the past several years, I have been exploring clay as fabric. Ceramic material is inherently dense and inflexible—qualities that have historically recommended it for utility. The transformation of this material into works that are soft and fluid as well as visually weightless, is only one way of challenging the long standing beliefs about clay as an artistic medium. Questions remain about the possibilities of the material—how it might be used and in what ways it can speak of our time.    – Lee Renninger

Much of my work has evolved from a fascination with repeated patterns and multiple objects. It is primarily clay based but often incorporates other media in an installation format. While clay is most often associated with fine craft and functional objects, I use it conceptually—stretching the boundaries of the material in an effort to challenge the accepted ideas of how clay should be used.

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Please join Timezone Gallery on January 8th from 5 to 9 pm at 717 Leavenworth St between Post and Sutter for our first opening reception and solo exhibition featuring the work of Elizabeth Amento.

Her eye catching gouache drawings and fluffy interactive sculpture of pop craft will be a definite visual stimulant. As part of our new philosophy, here at Timezone Gallery we are committed to highlighting emerging artist’s who’s work is as fun to look at as it is well made.

To understand the work of Elizabeth Amento one must take Jackson Pollack, Kara Walker, and Cecily Brown, smash their works together, delicately though and on small 8 by 8 inch pieces of white archival paper. Then take Claes Oldenburg and Jeff Koons fuck up their work so you cant tell what it is anymore, and you will have similarly looking but larger then life fluffy interactive installations. Get some curious gallery goers and have them crawl under them, around them and lie down and relax inside them.

She is a new San Francisco based artist who got her edge-a-mo-vacation or MFA at the School of The Museum of Fine Arts, Boston. Who has recently relocated back to SF and will be having this, her first Solo show in the place where she grew up. After you view the show and play with the art you can hang out and party in our back yard to celebrate our first opening featuring a fantastic new artist Elizabeth Amento.

on view
January 8th-29th 2010

Timezone Gallery

717 Leavenworth St (between Post and Sutter)

San Francisco, CA 94109

http://www.elizabethamento.com/

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“Urban Confluence” opens at C.A.V.E. Gallery Saturday January 9th. The show features a talented group of art renegades, whose dynamic compositions are inspired by the surrounding urban environment – the density of buildings, the serendipitous interaction of city dwellers, and the hope that elements of nature will find their way into our urban daily lives.

The exhibition will showcase an interesting diversity of cutting edge works, including paintings, mixed media collages, pen and ink, and unique hand-sprayed stencils.

Participating artists are: Codak, Craig “Skibs” Barker, Daryll Peirce, Eatcho, Euth, Gosha Levochkin, Greg Boudreau, Han Haveron, Liz Brizzi, Michelle Dubin, Nate Seubert, Renee Lawter, Patrick Haemmerlein, and Zoso.

C.A.V.E. Gallery

507 Rose Avenue

Venice CA 90291

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1AM SF is not only an art gallery celebrating urban and street art but also an establishment committed to conveying the positive aspects of this misunderstood form of art. The classes are aimed to give an outlet for people to express themselves creatively and raise awareness to the urban arts. The four classes offered at 1AM are Stencil, Art of Graffiti “Sketching Letters”, Toy Modification, and the Letter Style and Mural Production. We give students first hand experience in the world of street and urban art by teaching them the history, culture, art styles of graffiti and having them paint a mural on one of the busiest streets of San Francisco. 1AM, short for First Amendment, encourages people to freely share their thoughts and ideas through the medium of art in a responsible and innovative way.

Roman, heralded as one of the most positive people they have ever met, teaches the Stencil classes at 1AM SF. He teaches students to create stencils that can be applied to any surface, whether it be on shoes, an old shirt, a hat or just plain old paper. The class starts with logo development and ends with each student creating his or her very own stencil. All art supplies needed for creating the personalized stencil are provided by 1AM. Class is offered every month.

-Each class consists of two sessions
-The class is $50/person
-Ages 18+ welcome.

Wednesday, January 13, 2010 At 05:30 PM

1AM

1000 Howard st.

San Francisco, CA, 94103

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Hilarious! I think I have found a new artist to follow. Please check the links out.

http://withoutyoubaby.com

http://www.invisibleheroes.net

http://www.comenius.ch

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Cuban International Artist Collaboration Project

Artist Call Out

Deadline: Jan. 25th, 2009

The “Cuban International Artist Collaboration Project” is seeking visual artists, mc’s, music producers, screen printers, extreme sports athletes, and videographers to participate in a project in conjunction LA MADRIGUERA in Havana, Cuba.  The project seeks to build an international collaboration between foreign and Cuban artists in the following ways.

1. Street Artists: Painting a collaborative mural with street artists from Cuba.  The painting will include a painting demonstration event with dj’s and community members.
2. Musicians: Collaborate with Cuban musicians to create and record music at a studio. The music will be uploaded to the blog/ myspace/ facebook of the project after final production. In addition, if you have your own network of distribution, we are open to suggestions.
3. Screenprinters: Build a screenprinting studio in the LA MADRIGUERA that will remain for community usage including screen burning, printing, and drying capabilities.  Create and print posters and T-shirts made in the studio to distribute to community members.
4. Videographers: Shoot and edit the events of the project for the 10 main days of project.  There will be a final screening at a closing event for the entire project.
5. Photographers: Shoot photography of the events of the project to use on online media and print.  The photographs will be used in the final video project.
6. Extreme Sports: Near LA MADRIGUERA is “La Sala Polivalente – Skatepark”. In order to create a community collaboration, we need international skaters, inliners or BMX atlethes to performe demos for the locals. In addition, host a 2 day class to teach community youth how to ride and learn from professionals.

Requirements: artists must be Spanish speaking or willing to learn (we will not have a translator). They must have 5 years of experience in their field.   All artists are required to cover their own expenses for 15 days in Cuba (approximately $1000) and $250 for your visa.

We will be traveling to Cuba legally with permits.  We will arrange all permiting and hotels. The project is scheduled for June 15-30th, 2010.

If you are interested in participating please email the following information to erinyoshi@gmail.com or sofia.maldo@gmail.com

Please Title the email: Cuban International Artists Collaborative Project

1. Bio
2. Portfolio or 5 images of your work
3. Link to electronic media (websites, facebook, flicker, myspace)
4. CV
5. Specialization: Painters, photographer, screenprinter, videographers, extreme sports, or musician.

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Clark Magazine celebrates its 40th issue with 3 special covers done up by the french artist Miss Van. Issue 40 also offers a special song track to download on the website www.clarkmagazine.com compiled by DJ Aliejo from the french collective Pain ‘o’ Chokolat.

You can also discover the portraits of agnès b., Michaël Dupouy from LA MJC, the director Spike Jonze or the interview about Nigel Cabourn from the eponymous english brand.

In the lifestyle section you will find a special article on the twentieth anniversary of Grunge, a city-guide of the french city Marseille, and the portfolio of the photographer Jeaneen Lund about Morrissey’music fans.

Miss Van contributed a 15 page spread, also you will find the works of Marylin Minter, Francine Spiegel and Derek Albeck in the magazine.

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Past posts that you may have missed that should not slip under your Art Radar:

Toofly x Kidrobot: Dunny Fetale Series

Sneaker Freaker Magazine: Best of 2009

M.I.S.S. Paper Dolls @ FIFTY24LA: Group Show

As connoisseurs of nail art, we are proud and honored to feature today’s Women Making History, London’s leading manicurist/pedicurist, Sophy Robson!

Sophy has redefined nail art. She has created signature manicures that have appeared in editorials, campaigns, videos, and she’s been copied many times over, something Sophy can’t help but find flattering.

More on today’s honoree:

Sophy Robson is the leading manicurist and pedicurist in London, with a salon The Sophy Robson Nailcare Clinic at Fortnum & Mason, London, where she is available for appointments.

Sophy is known for her signature treatment, the Medi-Pedi as well as the luxury 2 hour treatment for hands and feet the Turn Back Time, and her bespoke nail extensions. Her treatments have been recommended by everyone from vogue.com to the Telegraph magazine.

So what exactly is a medi pedi?

It is a very thorough overhaul of the feet, using a variety of skin scuffing instruments after which follows a rejuvenating exfoliation scrub and soak with petals. The lower leg and feet are then massaged and expertly polished to last several weeks. If there are any broken nails, a repair can be done which will allow a new nail to grow back healthily underneath.

Sophy Robson's site: www.sophyrobson.com

Sophy handles our M.I.S.S. survey...

Illustration by Richard Gray for Sophy Robson.

Sophy talks about the illustration above by Richard Gray:

This was my first sort of branding image, which I commissioned the supremely talented Richard Gray to design for me when I started my “by appointment service” at The Berkeley Hotel in 2005. I needed something that represented luxury and chicness,but which slightly captured my (at the time) bling personality, as I wanted to appeal to a very wealthy, fashion conscious clientele.

It made it into Vogue so I guess we didnt do too bad! When I met Richard he asked me about what my service was about, and I had recently done the triple colour V french tip nails in a Sunday Times Style editorial so we decided to use that. He then loved the fact that I used Diamancel files which are made of diamond chips so he came up with that diamond to stars image..and finally the SR ring was a way to identify my name and a nod to my love of hip hop culture.

…some people think its a little old fashioned looking but I still love it.

Editorial featuring YSL

Our Q&A with Sophy:

M.I.S.S.: What woman, besides your mom or grandmother, do you find inspirational?

When I was growing up, my idols were Madonna and later Lil Kim as I admired their strength, independence and the way they were not afraid to express themselves. I have been inspired by all the smart, strong, sexy women I have met, who stand up for what they believe in.

M.I.S.S.: How did you get your start?

As soon as I started learning to do nail extensions I had offers of work. Ok they were’nt all that great (my mum’s local hairdressers for example) but the point is demand for someone good was high. My first paying employer was NYNC, a now defunct nail bar chain. I was quickly promoted to managerial status, despite having no previous manager or business experience. They just thought I was a natural leader. My first campaign was for Jimmy Choo and that was down to me being one of the first good manicurists available to work on shoots. I had already done some editorial shoots with the stylist and the photographer on that, and they picked me to do the ad!

M.I.S.S.: What’s your favorite manicure that you’ve created?

I love the rainbow tips as quite a few people love it and have tried to do their own version which I find very flattering. I actually love it when people try to copy my ideas because it just inspires me to do even better. I have just done 25 exclusive nail designs for a spread in UK Elle magazine where I referenced everything from machine guns to cherry blossom as logos. It took a long time but it is definitely the most original and expressive work I have done yet.

Sophy's signature rainbow tips and soft cloud inspired nails.

M.I.S.S.: Who do you want to work with?

Rihanna, Kid Sister are 2 current icons who make a statement with their nails. I like working with anyone who is into nail style and appreciates where I am coming from.

Sophy's work with Kylie...

M.I.S.S.: What part of being a nail artist is the most challenging and do you dislike the most?

There are so many little gripes associated with the fashion business. It is a harsh industry but you just have to shake it off and move on to the next day. I still love doing what I do and that is what I focus on.

Left: UK Vogue editorial, Right: Sophy Nails for Jeremy Scott SS ‘10 Show

Left: Tom Ford Campaign by Mert & Marcus, Right: UK Vogue editorial

M.I.S.S.: How did you make the leap from salon work to editorial work?

It was more of a gradual ascension than a leap….The first step was to go and see hair and make up agencies and show them examples of my work. This was around 8 years ago so there were only a few photographers and stylists that were interested in nails. Also the bugdets were tiny or non existent compared to now, so it was essential to have a constant source of income. I saw that in the U.S. manicurists were on shoots more often so I had a feeling it would change here and it did.

Left: YSL checkered nails in Russian Vogue, Right: Vogue hand shot

M.I.S.S.: When working on editorials, how much freedom do you have?

It has got way better! I find now that most people I am working with know me and trust me to come with whatever is appropriate for the image we are creating. Beige or mannequin nails has been a very popular choice for a while, so I am now a beige specialist with around 15 or more types of beige. Sometimes I get sent references before the shoot day so I can be inspired. It really depends on the job and what kind of shoot it is but I love being able to offer my input into the finished look. Sometimes we do something fun or weird or graphic, but other times a classic beautiful nail is all that is needed.

Left: YSL Campaign, Right: stunning editorial from Style Magazine

M.I.S.S.: Any new techniques that are your current favorites? Do you like Minx nails?

I have used Minx on editorials and a few clients that have requested it. Of course, I have done it on myself. I have to try every new product or technique that comes on the market.

I like the customisation idea – infact I would love to collaborate with them on some designs! I love the idea that you can create any design you want on a sticker. They had these machines which did it before but the image was so blurred.
I tried poppits but I prefer to sculpt freehand – they don’t really save me any time.
I give everything a go and love discovering new products, but you cant beat a brilliant traditional manicure!

M.I.S.S.: Any advice for ladies who are just starting out in a career path similar to yours?

Do not be over pushy. I can tell you that many people in fashion will be put off by that. You need to get it and work as part of the team. Always listen to what they want. Always focus on the speed and quality of your work.

Still from the Sugarbabes Hole In The Head video & some wicked talons for a make-up campaign

You can view Sophy’s art in action in the Sugarbabes “Hole In The Head” video on YouTube.

For more on Sophy and her work, please visit: www.sophyrobson.com

To see what’s inspiring London’s leading manicurist/pedicurist on the daily, visit Sophy’s Nail Blog—it won’t disappoint!

Still from the music video "Dollhouse"

I’m sure you have heard of new Capitol recording artist Priscilla Renea – Her video for “Dollhouse” has been looped non-stop on MTV between their “cable” shows – and she has also penned a few songs for fellow singer Katy Perry. “Dollhouse” is a little too commercial for my taste, but I’m really feeling the YouTube videos where it’s just her and her guitar. Simple pleasures. We caught up with Ms. Renea via email and she told us a little bit about her start in the industry.

Still from "Dollhouse"

You just performed at Lollapalooza. Do you feel you perform differently when you are in front of a large audience (as opposed to in front of a digital camera for YouTube)?

I feel no difference when I’m performing in front of a super huge crowd like at Lollapalooza than when it’s just me singing to my YouTube audience because I don’t have to focus on just one person in either situation. There’s no awkwardness. It’s just me and the bright lights shining in my eyes.

Still from "Dollhouse"

What is it like working with Benny Blanco? Is he as pervy in real life as he was on Bangers & Cash with Spank Rock?

Benny is a nutcase. He’s crazy. He’s just about as pervy as he’s ever gonna get. lol. At least I hope he doesn’t get any worse!

Renea advertising the release of her EP Hello My Apple

Benny has worked with Katy Perry, and your song “Dollhouse” seems more like pop than some of the other tracks we’ve heard from you. Since “Dollhouse” came out, have people started comparing you to Katy Perry?

It’s natural that when you’re a new artist people need someone to compare you to just to give them an idea of what type of artist they think you might be. I’m grateful for the comparisons, must mean I’m doing something right.=]

We are following you on Twitter. Are you addicted to it, or do you just tweet occasionally?

I am addicted to Twitter. It’s ridiculous actually. I check my emails, calls, texts, and then Twitter.

Do you owe your success to Jennifer Hudson? Do you think it was just lucky that you chose “And I Am Telling You” right around the time Dreamgirls came out?

I owe my success to the GREAT team I have behind me. It’s a machine. I got where I am today because I was blessed to be doing all the right things at all the right times in all the right places. I chose the right song at the right time with “And I Am Telling You”. Hopefully I can continue to be so insightful. lol

If you HAD to choose, what is the one beauty product you CANNOT live without?

Eyelashes. I swear they make my face look different.

Renea on a casual day!

Priscilla dressed up as Mario from The Mario Bros. for Halloween

♥♥ If you watch America’s Next Top Model, I hope to god that you are reading Rich Juzwiak’s recaps on Four Four. For the animated .gif’s alone!

♥♥ It’s cute, creative and weird all at the same time. Dead fly art via Urlesque.

♥♥ Miley Cyrus quit that twitter bitch. Then she rapped about it on Youtube.

♥♥ And speaking of Youtube, this dude skillfully popping his booty is just about the best thing I’ve seen in weeks. Mesmerizing.

♥♥ Jeremy Scott is kind of killing it with these hologram winged Metro Attitude Hi’s. The  Adidas Originals X Jeremy Scott Spring 2010 Preview is looking fresh to death as usual via Highsnobette.

♥♥ “Let’s not beat around the grey haired bush” about what’s going on at the Single Cougars Convention. Miss Cougar America! via Current TV.

♥♥ Save the money you might spend on invisilign! If you have a gap between your teeth, you don’t necessarily need braces to conform to conventional beauty. Complex counts down their favorite gap toothed ladies.

♥♥ Super feelin this Skream Remix of the new Chromeo joint Night By Night. Download from Mola Super Poco.

♥♥ “Yours To Keep”  Is the new joint by The Teddybears featuring Neneh Cherry!  downloadable from The Burning Ear.

♥♥ Very cool public art by Liesbet Bussche that replicates jewelry, via Diary Of A Broke College Student.

♥♥ Zip a dee doo dah. The Zipper trend makes it’s way to jewelry by blogger Style Hurricaine.

♥♥ You know how people write “wash me!” on the windows of dirty cars? Well this dirty car art by Scott Wade takes that to another level, and you certainly would not want to wash it off. Via Beautiful/Decay.

Women Making History: Sarah Morrison

For those who have recently joined the internets (welcome!), please read the Sarah Morrison official bio below, to understand why she’s kinduvabig deal:

Sarah Morrison is a writer, internet personality, and marketing genius. She was the editor of Missbehavemag.com, up until the magazine’s recent demise. She has written a weekly column called Best Week Ever on Yobeat.com for a number of years, detailing her hilarious day to day life. Her writing has been published in Missbehave Magazine and Vapors Magazine. She has also created and managed lifestyle blogs for both Urban Outfitters and Volcom Girl’s Clothing. She currently writes for the Married to the MOB lifestyle blog Mobliving.com.

Sarah has worked on online marketing and branding projects with a variety of clients including; XBox, Cafe Habana and Habana Outpost (NYC), Cinespace Restaurant and Lounge (LA), Bacardi B-live, Volcom Clothing, Urban Outfitters, Nikita clothing, and many others.

She is known to throw amazing parties, when so inclined. Past events have included; Cinespace Tuesdays with Dim Mak records, Hush Hush; a monthly LA dance party, the Camel (cigarettes) No.9 Los Angeles Launch Event, among others. She has also thrown an alarming amount of afterparties at CMJ, Coachella, SXSW, and TKTK other musical festivals.

Sarah recently left New York to return to Los Angeles. She spends her free time in a bikini: Twittering, watching television, and leaving really long voicemail messages. She is really funny and SUPER pretty. Last time she checked she had 31,599 Myspace friends.

Sarah Morrison: MissBehavin'

Sarah Morrison's Lazy Girl Power spread straight from the pages MissBehave Mag.

Now, want to know what was Sarah doing when she wasn’t in the middle of building an amazing résumé? Well, before make-up tutorials started invading Youtube, Sarah Morrison kinda ruled the site. For those not familiar, below is a message from Sarah regarding her Youtube videos:

I used to be big on Youtube. I used to do these videos where I discussed something funny and pretended it confused me. They are all the ones titled “Sarah Morrison on __________.” They were pretty entertaining. The newer stuff is just dumb shit at Missbehave and stuff with my friends and what not.

Here’s the link to my Youtube videos: http://www.youtube.com/user/sarahmorrisonvideos

…and here are some other recent videos:

Here I go on a Blind Date with Brooke’s intern. It’s pretty funny.

Nick and Sarah go on a Date from YoBeat Magazine on Vimeo.

I read these funny Kids’ books.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IhP9q2XPpj0&feature=channel_page
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wRY-V5ZmVug&feature=channel

Before you dive into those videos and find yourself in the middle of a Sarah Morrison Marathon 3 hours later, dip into the M.I.S.S. survey she filled out below:

Sarah Morrison tackles the M.I.S.S. survey.

M.I.S.S.: What woman, besides your mom or grandmother, do you find inspirational?

Wendy Williams, Tiny Fey, Kathy Griffin, and Oprah obvi. I wanted to add someone attractive to this list but couldn’t think of any one admirable AND attractive, which is interesting in itself.

M.I.S.S.: How did you get your start?

I started “blogging” back in the Myspace days. I used to write a blog called “Sarah Morrison’s Best Week Ever.” I would write down all the funny hilarious things that happened in my week, quotes that my friends said, and such. At the end of the week I compiled them in short bullet point format and posted 10 to 20 of them for people to enjoy. I was born funny. But I was unaware that I was funny in print, until I attempted it. People liked it. I wrote about working retail, then throwing parties, then the girls at Missbehave. It evolved as my life evolved. I got known well enough blogging to pursue a legitimate writing career, which I had never planned on. But I did. And I love my life.

I stopped doing Best Week Ever when the website I wrote it for was short on cash due to this whole “economy” thing. I now basically do it all day long on Twitter. So that worked out well.

My Twitter account. I feel like Twitter is my calling. Wish that was a career path. OH WELL.

Sarah & a glance into her office.

M.I.S.S. Who do you want to work with, dress, make music with, etc?

I would drop everything to be Wendy William’s intern (in theory). I’d like to meet Kathy Griffin. i really want to try doing stand-up but I am scarid Plus, I am kinda cute and I heard you are sposed to be unattractive to be a female comedian. I would die if Tina Fey called me and was LIKE “you are almost as funny as me, let’s make Youtube videos together or pitch fake TV show ideas” or something. On a more attainable level, I can’t think of anyone

The haters. I really try to not let it get to me. But, it’s really hard. I am a smart girl. And generally the people who hate me, aren’t. They think I’m serious. They don’t understand sarcasm and humor. And so they assume I am serious/stupid and opt to suggest things like me killing myself, which is always good for the self-esteem. But, coming with a disclaimer “I am kidding” sort of ruins the whole thing.

Be yourself. Be original. Do something no one else is doing. Don’t fake it. Be OK with being smart. Don’t be scared. Write till your lil heart bleeds. And keep writing. And don’t worry about blog comments and traffic. Be the best you you can be. People are drawn to honesty and authenticity.

M.I.S.S. thanks you, Sarah!

Sarah views the world through heart-shaped eyes.

Still not convinced that Sarah Morrison’s a big deal? Check out the link action below:

• Sarah Morrison’s website: http://thesarahmorrison.com/
• Sarah Morrison blog: http://thesarahmorrison.wordpress.com/
• Sarah Morrison on The Married to the MOB blog: http://www.mobliving.com/
• Sarah Morrison on Twitter: http://twitter.com/SarahMorrison

The World According to M.I.S.S.: The e-Diplomat

In less than three months Secretary of State Hilary Clinton and the entire State Department, have embarked on a digital diplomacy overhaul aimed at spreading the word about American foreign policy and restoring Washington’s tainted image. This overhaul, being a part of a broader internet outreach by the Obama administration, has already surpassed Clinton’s predecessors.

Here’s the rundown:

• They’ve revamped the State Department website and blog to include colorful graphics and exciting new features, one of which allows the user to sound off on how Secretary Clinton should handle situations that may arise during her tenure.
• You can track Clinton’s foreign travels on an interactive map.
• You can keep up virtually with the Secretary’s every move via outlets such as Twitter, Facebook, Flicker, and YouTube.
• Before you could only pose questions in the departments ‘Ask the Secretary’ column which has now been changed to also include a  ‘Text the Secretary’ option.

I’m excited for this change. It makes Secretary Clinton WAY more accessible than any of the men and women that sat in her seat before. Just imagine being able to track her travels, post questions about her progress, and even follow her department on Twitter. It all may seem a bit overwhelming but its nice to know that this Administration actually wants to know what we think about the activities taking place in the world.

Be sure to check out the links above and make your voice heard!

Tis’ the season for change! In an effort to remain transparent and connected to the public, YouTube has announced the creation of two very important channels that will give average Americans like you and I the ability to candidly view the U.S. House of Representatives and the U.S. Senate. The House Hub and Senate Hub channels on YouTube have made government accessible more than ever before; becoming the digital equivalent to a backstage pass to government.

After using the channels myself to search for my Representative and Senator, I can attest to the fact that these political outlets are very easy to use. House Hub has an interactive map component that allows users to simply find their state, click on it, and voilà! you’ve found a list a Representatives that serve your state. Senate Hub is a little different. Each week a video is chosen from a member of Congress that solicits questions about the pressing issues in our country (think, recession). Users are then able to send in their ideas via Google Moderator about how to resolve these pressing issues and vote on the ideas others have had. The top two most voted on ideas are then addressed by the Senator of the Week.

I totally recommend getting involved with these two channels. If you’re anything like me and like your voice to be heard, then this is a wonderful and easy way to make it happen. If you see something in your state, city, or neighborhood that needs attention, this is a GREAT way to contact the right individuals to make change happen wherever you are!

Visit House Hub & Senate Hub today!

Solange Knowles steps out (and WAY in front of the other Knowles sister) with a fresh and fun sound on her new CD, SoL-AngeL and the Hadley St. Dreams. The album features a dream team of collaborators including three-times Grammy award-winning music producer Mark Ronson, the ever-so-funky Cee-Lo, Pharrell, Jack Splash, The Neptunes, the legendary award-winning Lamont Dozier, and Bilal.

Here’s the good word:

Inspired by the ’60s and early ’70s, Solange showcases a Motown influenced sound that has been given a brand-new kick while at the same time offering her love of London-inspired Electronica on a few select hits. Highlight tracks on SoL-AngeL and the Hadley St. Dreams include The Neptunes produced “I Decided – PT1,” and the Freemasons version of the same tune, “I Decided – PT2,” the Soulshock & Karlin produced “Sandcastle Disco,” the Cee-Lo penned “T.O.N.Y” and the honest and revealing co-written and co-produced by Solange, “God Given Name.” A new video for “Sandcastle Disco,” directed by Solange herself, recently debuted on MTV’s F’N MTV and BET’s 106 & Park. —Marketwatch.com

Download I Decided (Pt.1) and Sandcastle Disco HERE and tell us what you think!

Make sure you check out the video for I Decided via YouTube and pick up Sol-Angel and the Hadley St. Dreams out now on the Geffen label!