Thursday, May 2, 2024

Artscience Museum's Frida Forever (4 May to 1 Sep 2024) - An Immersive Celebration of Frida Kahlo's Unique Life


Mexican artist and icon Frida Kahlo is one of Red Dot Diva's favourite women personalities. The vibrancy and surrealism in her artwork, as well as resilience in the face of adversity, never ceases to amaze and captivate Diva's imagination.

Back in 2018, Red Dot Diva was thrilled to be able to catch the Frida Kahlo: Making Herself Up exhibit at London's V&A Museum. No photos were allowed at the exhibit but it did not matter. On display, were her personal belongings like her clothing, makeup items, her intricately painted plaster corsets, even her prosthetic leg. It was a very intimate insight to the artist's psyche, and her story continues to inspire people even in this day and age. So, when Red Dot Diva heard that Artscience Museum would be presenting FRIDA FOREVER - a line up of exhibits and events commemorating 70 years of the artists' passing in 1954 - Diva had to find out what the local event would be like.

FRIDA FOREVER consists of two connecting exhibits in Level B2 of the building, as well as a VR offering on the 4th floor. Here are Red Dot Diva's thoughts from her sneak peek of the exhibits.

FRIDA KAHLO: THE LIFE OF AN ICON

In this immersive exhibit Frida Kahlo comes to life with colourful interactive installations, digital technologies, and 360-degree projections. As you wander from one zone to another, you will learn about the fateful accident that changed her life trajectory and how that affected her decisions for the rest of her artistic journey and choices. Check out some of the highlights:

At an altar that is inspired by the Mexican tradition of Día de los Muertos (Day of the Dead), you will have the chance to contemplate and remember about Frida's eventful life.

A digital representation of the impact of her traumatic accident when she was 18 years old, is a powerful reminder of the suffering Frida Kahlo has endured for most of her life. The incident changed her feelings and thoughts about art, and it was the beginning of the outlet she needed to express how she viewed herself, her body, her beliefs and her struggles.

At the La Rosita tavern, Frida secured a space where her students were able to start painting murals. In this segment, you can sit down to colour your own Kahlo-inspired artpiece. Consider that a mission for Red Dot Diva! You can then scan your finished artwork and it will appear as a light projection on the wall.

Tada! How do you like Diva's work of art? :D

A crazily psychedelic light projection room depicts the various symbols and motifs that Frida Kahlo often use in her paintings. These include pineapples, monkeys, calaveras (Mexican skulls), and marigolds.

It is also a great photo spot for the 'Gram.

Frida Kahlo's look is instantly recognisable and her icon style has fueled inspiration for various fashion houses like Givenchy, Jean Paul Gaultier and Valentino. In this segment, a few Mexican-style clothing, including the huipils featuring traditional embroidery that Frida loves to wear, are on display for us to admire. The artist favoured long skirts to conceal her shortened right leg due to childhood polio, and later her amputation.


The piece de resistance of this exhibition is the 360-immersive biography of Frida Kahlo's, chronicling her life in 45 minutes. With a fantastic soundtrack that also feature readings of poems in Spanish, weaved in the moving visuals of key moments in Frida like her childhood, her time spent in San Francisco, her place of convalescence, her love for animals and plants and more.

After the getting to know Frida's story, it is time to delve a little deeper by heading into the next exhibit entitled...

LAID BARE: FRIDA'S INNER WORLD

This is a smaller and more intimate look into Frida's that consists of 40 photographs, diary pages, medical records, and exclusive interviews with Cristina Kahlo Alcalá — the great niece of Frida Kahlo. In the recorded interview, Cristina Kahlo Alcalá shared how she managed to obtain medical records from the American British Cowdry Hospital in Mexico, where Frida spent most of her time in treatment for her medical troubles.

It is amazing to see the rebellious and defiant look in her eyes in one of the main photos, against the pictures of her prosthetic legs, mangled spine and medical records. And from living with chronic pain throughout most of her life, she usurps the narrative to make it her own by displaying her pain and mental resilience in eye-catching and moving artwork like Tree Of Hope, Remain Strong (1946). The artwork depicts the duality of the universe - light vs dark, as well as her life - the one on the left, broken and marred by surgical scars, and on the right, the sad yet confident Frida dressed in vibrant red and holding the flag with lyrics from a song "Cielito Lindo", which means "Tree of Hope, Remain Strong."

Laid Bare: Frida’s Inner World is curated and produced by ArtScience Museum with the support of Cristina Kahlo Alcalá and Circe Henestrosa.

As you leave this exhibit, do not forget to admire the beautiful floral arch installation by Singapore-based Mexican artist and curator, Lidia Riveros.

EXQUISITE CORPSE: VR EXPERIENCE

To add on to the knowledge you have now acquired about Frida Kahlo, there is a VR experience entitled Exquisite Corpse developed by Layers of Reality and Blit Studios.

The digital journey begins when Frida was confined to the hospital bed while recovering from her health issues. This was the pivotal point where she decided to express herself through art. As you follow her journey, you will get to immerse yourself in a 360 view of her world, surrounded by her iconic colours and symbols.


Artscience Museum's FRIDA FOREVER tribute is a great introduction for those who are not familiar with the Mexican artist's life. Even for those who already know of Frida's extraordinary story, the displays provided more intimate details about her medical conditions, and enhances your appreciation of her outlook on life and death even more. When delving into Frida Kahlo's time on this earth, Red Dot Diva's tends to wonder if exquisite art is always spawned from immense suffering. What do you think?

FRIDA FOREVER runs from 4 May to 1 September 2024. Tickets can be purchased via Fever, at this link: https://feverup.com/m/165967



Wednesday, May 1, 2024

Meet Rebel Scums and BucketHeads At Star Wars May The 4th Events In Singapore (2024)


May The 4th, also known as STAR WARS DAY, is an annual grassroots driven celebration for STAR WARS fans all over the world. Right here on Red Dot Island, the festivities will be held in a few key spots this year. So, get ready to meet rebel scums and bucketheads at these three locations!


SCIENCE CENTRE SINGAPORE (4 - 5 May 2024)

This year, it's not just about the light side or the dark side. It's all about the Westside!

The primary May The 4th SG event will be part of Singapore Centre Singapore's Sci-Fi Fiesta. Fans can interact and take photos with the local STAR WARS costumed groups, which include the 501st Legion SG, Rebel Legion SG, Kranak Clan - Mandalorian Mercs and The Galactic Academy Hosnian Prime Campus Singapore. That means, you will get to meet a gamut of Star Wars characters like Jawas, stormtroopers, Jedis, Mandalorians and more! The costumed groups' efforts will also be a charity drive, with donations usually benefitting the KKH Health Fund run by KKH Women's and Children's Hospital. This fun opportunity will be held at the Annexe Foyer, and admission is free.

ADDED on 2 May 2024: The May the 4th SG team has released a list of fun activities that you can enjoy this weekend. Take a look at their Facebook post below:



Other Sci-Fi Fiesta activities like building your own space vehicle, are also available for you to take part in. However, these would involve an entrance fee to Singapore Centre Singapore.


GARDENS BY THE BAY (4 - 5 May 2024)

Popular local lightsaber performance group, Fightsaber Singapore, will be putting up their exciting theatrical routines at Gardens By The Bay's Supertree Grove this weekend! Fightsaber Singapore is the only Lucasfilm sanctioned lightsaber performance organisation in Southeast Asia.

You can watch their thrilling performances on 4 May 2024 (Sat) at 8:20 PM, and on 5 May 2024 (Sun) at 7.30PM and 8.20PM.

Red Dot Diva thinks it will be worthwhile to make a family outing to Gardens By The Bay for May the 4th. Here's why.

On the same day, there will be a preview of Gardens By The Bay's new Northern lights spectacle called Borealis at 7:30 PM to 8:15 PM. The light and sound outdoor installation at Supertree Grove is designed by Switzerland-based artist Dan Acher.

Then, when you have choped your place at Supertree Grove, you get to watch Fightsaber's performance. After which, you can treat yourself to the Garden Rhapsody: STAR WARS Edition, lighting up the super trees in glorious fashion at 8:45 PM (Repeats on 5 May 2024, Sunday at 7:45 PM and 8:45 PM). If they are using the same sequence as before, Red Dot Diva recalled that the light show experience gives all kinds of feels for any STAR WARS fan, as you sit/ stand there imagining you are right in the forests of Endor. Totally recommended!


WISMA ATRIA (1 to 19 May 2024)

LEGO is having a special STAR WARS DAY pop up event at Wisma Atria mall from 1 to 19 May 2024. The event is also held to celebrate LEGO's Star Wars 25th Anniversary.

To be honest, the kind of STAR WARS characters you would most probably get to see at the much smaller LEGO minifigure versions, but the pop-up event has a few fun things in store too! For one thing, Bothan spies have whispered that there will be LEGO product launches and announcements on May the 4th (Sat).

Besides the product launches, there are statue builds of Stormtroopers and Darth Vader and a LEGO diorama built by Titan Creations. Outside of Wisma Atria, there is a prop of the Emperor Palpatine's throne where you can channel your dark side and take selfies.



Other interesting things happening at the pop-up are:
- transforming yourself to your own LEGO minifigure version at the Create Your Own Poster boot
- joining contests, like guessing the number of LEGO lightsabers at the event space
- snagging freebies, by taking a photo of yourself on the Emperor's throne
- meet and greet with a roving LEGO Darth Vader on 1 May – 12 PM, 2 PM, 4 PM, and 18 and 19 May – 12 PM, 2 PM, 4 PM


May The 4th is all about celebrating being a STAR WARS fan. If you are not able to make it for these public events, please do not feel to sad about it. Red Dot Diva encourages that you can unleash your creativity, and organise your own May the 4th party with your friends and family! It is really about having fun and making memories as a STAR WARS fan.

May the Force Be With You.


Monday, March 18, 2024

Diva's Review: Matilda The Musical Is A Revoltingly Enjoyable Show


The award-winning MATILDA THE MUSICAL, has returned to thrill audiences in Red Dot Island. Base Entertainment Asia and GWB Entertainment in association with the Royal Shakespeare Company have brought the lively production back to Sands Theatre from now to 7 April 2024. The first time the hit musical was in town was over five years ago in 2019.

MATILDA THE MUSICAL, created by playright Dennis Kelly and composer Tim Minchin, is adapted from Roald Dahl's beloved children's book about an extraordinary girl courage and resilience. The production first opened at London's West End over a decade ago, and yet, it still continues to inspire audiences all over the world. The musical has since won over 101 awards, including 24 for Best Musical. Recently, the musical was also adapted into a full-length movie, which is still available to watch on streaming via Netflix.

GWB Entertainment Executive Producer, Paul Warwick Grin says: “This exceptional musical continues to win hearts and minds of audiences all around the world and remains one of the brightest lights on London’s West End. We are delighted to be bringing Matilda The Musical back to the excellent Sands Theatre at Marina Bay Sands”.

For the international tour, the main character Matilda is performed by three performers Yolani Balfour, Donna Craig, Myla Williams, whilst Daniel Abrahams, Jayden Seder, Erich Jordaan and Gideon van Biljon act as Bruce and Eric. The other primary cast includes Kaye (Michael Wormwood/Tommy), Matthew Rowland (Mr Wormwood), Gina Beck (Miss Honey), Emily Squibb (Mrs Wormwood), Lucy Warway (Lavender) and James Wolstenholme (Miss Trunchbull.

Red Dot Diva was invited for the media premiere and found the musical to be an immersive and enjoyable experience. Even though the story went into rather dark places, it never strayed too far away from the notion of hope and the idea of fighting for the common good. There were also a number of funny scenes interspersed along the way to make the story less intense, like the salsa dance number by Mrs Wormwood and her vain and “very supple” ballroom dancing partner Rodolpho, as well as when the cartoony Bulgarian mobsters who barged into the Wormwood household. The latter segment had Red Dot Diva almost rolling on the floor, in stitches.

The impressive set made the story come alive on stage (there were swings!), and the live band added to the atmosphere, especially the bassoon player's notes during Miss Trunchbull's more menacing scenes. Red Dot Diva thought the ensemble cast was terrific. The child performers showed off their innate mischievousness, and their exhuberance were infectious in group performances like “The School Song” and the iconic “Revolting Children”.

But in Red Dot Diva's opinion, it was Miss Trunchbull the cruel headmistress of Crunchem Hall, played by James Wolstenholme who stole the show. He portrayed the unpleasant, larger than life character as both funny and scary at the same time, and that is not an easy thing to do. The other standout performance was the young actor playing Bruce, who seemed to be having a lot of fun on stage. Red Dot Diva wished that the actor performing as Matilda on media preview night was more expressive, however, she cannot fault the young actor's crisp diction. It was to die for.

The story about Matilda and her love for books was something close to Red Dot Diva's heart. Red Dot Diva was a bookworm when she was Matilda's age, and being the typical Gen X-er, was also left to her own imagination most of the time. Luckily for Red Dot Diva, she did not have uncaring parents. Neither was her school ruled by a tyrannical headmistress. Phew!

MATILDA THE MUSICAL is a great show to get your young family members and friends acquainted with the main protagonist - an intelligent, strong-headed, emphatic young heroine who has the courage to make things right. The story also has an affirming message to tell, and that is, being smart for a girl (and woman) is not something to shy away from.

The production ends at 7 April 2024, so if you want to watch the show, go grab your tickets here!


----------------------------

Thank you, Base Entertainment Asia for the invite.


----------------------------

If you enjoy Red Dot Diva's content, feel free to help her endeavours going by showing your support through ko-fi. Thank you!




Wednesday, December 13, 2023

SG Toy Con 2023 (15 to 17 December) - Shop For Diecast Car Models, Designer Toys, Custom Action Figures and More!


The SG Toy Con, held from 15 to 17 December 2023, is pulling out all the stops this year. For starters, the event will command a larger floor space, as it has moved from Dhoby Ghaut's Visual Arts Centre to Leisure Park Kallang. The annual event, organised by Masterpiece Collectibles and Toyz Network, started out focusing mainly on miniature toy models. This year, its scope has widened to include indie exhibitors who offer other kind of toy collectibles, like designer toys, Gundam model kits and Funko. How awesome is that?!

Here's the list of such exhibitors announced for the toy fair. Just to name a few, the international brand names who will be at SG Toy Con 2023 include:


* GoodGuysNeverWin Toy Co from Indonesia
The indie toy company specialises in custom action figures which are very South-East Asian focused, like Indonesian ghoulies and monsters. Familiar scary names include the Kuntilanak (or Pontianak) and the Pocong. They also put an irreverent spin on well known personalities and iconic characters from pop-culture. Red Dot Diva was thrilled to see them back at Red Dot Island so that she can check out their current stuff at Booth A12!

* Playground Studio from Thailand
Toy designer Pranee Jiraprayoon of Playground Studio will be showing of her popular Musikacha figurine and other creations at the event. Say hello to her at Booth A2.

* Kawan Lab from Malaysia
Kawan Lab does a lot of food-themed monster toys and collectibles. They will be bringing in their new designer toy Puffzilla, which you can grab at Booth A5!


* Soulhappy Studio from Shanghai, China
Craving for durians? Soulhappy Studio will be selling their Durian+Mahjong designer toy at SG Toy Con! Scrolling through their social media, Red Dot Diva thinks their designs are super cool and eccentric. Great for adding to your collection or as a gift to someone special.

* Yolopark from Hong Kong
Yolopark is a global toy licensee for multiple global brand including Hasbro's Transformers! Ogle at their exclusive Transformers display at Booth E1 this weekend.

... just to name a few!



Look out also for the wonderful Miniature Stories with intricate nostalgic builds. You might want to keep a part of these heritage models in your home. Miniature Stories' Wayang Chinese Street Opera Stage is now available for pre-order (see pic above).

Stalwart exhibitors like diecast model brand Automodels, logistics company Bok Seng and their unique crane models, custom diorama Dream Customs, and everyone's favourite blind box booth Happibox, will be back this year too!

For lots more information about the list of exhibitors and events at this weekend's exciting SG Toy Con 2023, head to their dedicated website at https://www.masterpiececollectibles.com/sgtoycon



To add on the wow factor, there will also be a Commercial Vehicle Show, an outdoor exhibit just nearby at the open-air carpark beside Leisure Park Kallang from 11 AM to 5 PM! The mini vehicle show will shine the spotlight on the exclusive SG ToyCon Event Bus (see the video above!), as well as various buses, vans and trucks!

Red Dot Diva is prepped and ready to spend some of her hard-earned money if she spots anything interesting at SG Toy Con! See you all there!


Dates: 15 to 17 December 2023 (Fri to Sun)
Times: 10 AM to 8 PM
Venue: Leisure Park Kallang
Admission: Free of charge


----------------------------


If you enjoy my content, feel free to help keep the blog and other Red Dot Diva endeavours going via ko-fi. Thank you for your support!



Friday, December 8, 2023

Singapore Comic Con (SGCC) 2023 Artist Highlight - Comic Book Artist Stephen Segovia Is Eager To Be Back In Singapore


As part of Scott Collectable's stable of artists, Stephen Segovia has been invited as a special guest at this year's Singapore Comic Convention (SGCC). Red Dot Diva first met Stephen Segovia more than 10 years ago when he was here in for an opening of a comics and toy shop located at Funan the IT Mall. Click here to see how young and innocent we looked back then!

Ever since he was a breakout artist in the comic book world as a teenager, Stephen has continued to produce fabulous artwork - the kind of mindblowing work that is in recent titles like Marvel's on-going Moon Knight series, and the Spawn spin-off called The Scorched.

Being able to reconnect with Stephen again this weekend will be a happy and long awaited occasion, for sure. Here's the joyful electronic reunion before both Red Dot Diva and Stephen gets to meet in person again!

Red Dot Diva: Welcome back to SGCC! It has been awhile since you are back as a guest of the show. How does it feel to be back as an established artist with a portfolio of work with major publishers?
Stephen: I can't believe it's been a whole decade since I was last in Singapore! I'm so happy to be back and excited to be a part of the SGCC once again. I have a bunch of published work to share with you all, so let's catch up and have some fun!

Red Dot Diva: Lately, creators around our South-East Asian region are seeing a resurgence in terms of demand. For example, Sonny Liew winning the Eisners, Netflix adapting Filipino horror graphic novel series Trese. Do you think there should be more South-East Asian stories out there in graphic novels?
Stephen: I really think that there's a whole lot of amazing content out there from Southeast Asia that hasn't been shared with the world yet. It's mostly because these stories and artworks are self-published and only circulated on a small scale. Wouldn't it be awesome to see these creations being celebrated on a global platform like Netflix? I think it would be really cool! :)

Red Dot Diva: How do you think South-East Asian artists and creators can help to get more of our stories published?
Stephen: I really believe in the importance of appreciating and celebrating the fantastic creations that different creators bring to the table. By sharing them on various media platforms, we can inspire people all over the world and help them learn about different cultures. It's an awesome way to promote understanding and bring people closer together!

Red Dot Diva: You did a number of awesome covers for Marvel's Moon Knight series. Did you watch the Disney+ adaptation, and what did you think of it?
Stephen: Moon Knight has been a favourite of mine since my childhood, and I was delighted when Marvel commissioned me to produce several covers for them. Although the live-action adaptation differs from the comic book version, it remains an engaging and entertaining viewing experience. Despite its deviations from the original, the show retains the essence of the character and provides a fresh take on the source material.

Red Dot Diva: You have drawn professionally since the tender age of 16. How different do you think your art style is now versus back then?
Stephen: I have noticed that my style has been evolving towards storytelling rather than line details. Although I still enjoy creating detailed work on covers and commission art, I have been able to find a good balance between the two, incorporating storytelling with line work details on sequential art.

Red Dot Diva: What most distracts you from getting your work done?
Stephen: PS5 games hahaha!

Red Dot Diva: What are you looking forward to most when you are back in Singapore?
Stephen: I just can't get enough of Singapore! It's always an absolute delight to explore this vibrant city, make new friends and spend time with amazing fans. I could spend an entire day chatting away and signing books, and it still wouldn't be enough! And let's not forget about the delicious food - it's simply divine!



You can find Stephen Segovia in Scott Collectable's section within the Guest Zone of the L1 Exhibition Hall. Do give him a super warm welcome!!


----------------------------

RELATED SINGAPORE COMIC CON (SGCC) 2023 ARTICLES

Singapore Comic Con (SGCC) 2023 Booth Highlight - Digital Artist OSHred's Dark Fantasy Works Is A Sumptuous Blood Bath

Singapore Comic Con (SGCC) 2023 Booth Highlight - This One Is For the D&D Dice Gobbos (Ammybunny / Sambal and Mages)

Singapore Comic Con (SGCC) 2023 Artist Highlight - Nathelie Yong's Emo Trash & Etc! Is A 90's Pop-Punk Music Fan's Dream Booth

Singapore Comic Con (SGCC) 2023 Booth Highlight - Hailing All Transformer Fans To Hasbro's Cybertron Fest

Singapore Comic Con (SGCC) 2023 Artist Highlight - Collect 'Em All From Pokémon Fanart Illustrators Abz Art and Trainer K

Singapore Comic Con (SGCC) 2023 Artist Highlight - Wonder At Takahan Tan's Captivating Toy Photography

Singapore Comic Con (SGCC) 2023 Artist Highlight - Discovering Artistry: Allen Erie (Andrea Rosaline)

Singapore Comic Con (SGCC) 2023 - Legendary Comic Book Creators Stan Sakai and Julie Sakai Are Heading To Singapore!

Singapore Comic Con (SGCC) 2023 - Comic Book Guests Galore Including Peach Momoko, Chang Sheng, Martin Simmonds, Ario Anindito and More!

Singapore Comic Con 2023 (SGCC) - Tickets Are Available Right Now!


----------------------------

If you enjoy Red Dot Diva's content, feel free to help her efforts going by showing your support through ko-fi. Thank you!




Wednesday, December 6, 2023

Singapore Comic Con (SGCC) 2023 Artist Highlight - Digital Artist OSHred's Dark Fantasy Works Is A Sumptuous Blood Bath


Local comic book store Pink Ponk Comics returns to this year's Singapore Comic Convention (SGCC) with a bang. They have invited notable comic book artists to grace their booth at L1-AA14 - 25. During the weekend of 9 and 10 December 2023, comic book fans will be able to meet overseas artists OSHRed, Emma Wu, Maria Sanapo, Marco Santucci and Ivan Tao as well as well as artists from our local community like Johnny Lau, creator of Mr Kiasu, Ye Zhen, James Leong, Collin Yap, Kang Jing (Chiral Comics) and Shahril Azizi - just to name a few.

While admiring the artwork of these special guests, Red Dot Diva is especially attracted to the dark fantasy, gothy style of Philippines-based digital artist and illustrator OSHred (S. Red Amparo). Red Dot Diva is quite the macabre soul, you see. OSHred has mentioned that she loves the colour blue, and that is so evident with her liberal use of indigo hues in her recent portfolio. It's absolutely ravishing.

Besides variant comic book covers for titles such as W0RLDTR33, Good Boy, Vampirella, and Red Sonja, OSHred has drawn book covers and album covers for independent creatives. To get to know her a little better, Red Dot Diva managed to catch OSHred for a quick interview:

Red Dot Diva: Hello OSHred! Your art is simply sumptuous. Did you start drawing when you were very young, like many other artists out there?
OSHred: I've loved drawing ever since I was a kid and spent a lot of time copying from manga, children's books, and drawing the Powerpuff Girls. I discovered digital art by drawing in MS Paint on my mom's laptop using a mouse. I've been doing digital art for about 14 years now and I take a great deal of enjoyment in composing my artworks and connecting with other artists online.

Red Dot Diva: I read in one of your sites that you graduated from 3dsense Media School in Singapore? What was the experience like?
OSHred: I graduated from 3dsense Media School in Singapore in 2017 from their 1-year diploma course in digital illustration and concept art. It's frequently described as an "intense" course and they truly do mean it. My days were jam-packed with studies, exercises, lectures, and illustration homework. My sketchbooks were filled with figure drawings, skeletons, and musculature studies. We studied fundamentals such as perspective, anatomy, light and colour, as well as more advanced subjects such as character, creature, and environment design. I was able to connect with likeminded people who were passionate about art and some of them are still my friends to this day. I learned a lot from the instructors and I had the opportunity to study under Artgerm, whose work I'd admired since I was a young teen. I'm certain that studying at 3dsense significantly altered the trajectory of my art journey.

Red Dot Diva: I am most interested to know what inspires your art style. Which artists’ work have influenced your style?
OSHred: Artgerm inevitably had a great deal of influence on my art. Some other artists whose works inform my current style are Phil Hale, James Jean, Dave McKean, and João Ruas. I also draw a lot of inspiration from horror & psychological thriller films; I enjoy the work of directors such as Park Chan-wook, Robert Eggers, Alejandro Jodorowsky, and the Cronenbergs. In my free time, I also enjoy consuming dark media in various forms (film, books, music, manga) all of which help inform my work.

Red Dot Diva: I see your love for the macabre, but mostly with a cutesy spin to it. Do you love visiting actual physical sites that are macabre, like gothic cemeteries and catacombs? Some of these historical sites have beautiful sculptures and art.
OSHred: I have been lucky enough to visit places in Europe and the Middle East (such as France, Germany, Egypt, Turkey, to name a few) where I spent some time observing very old churches and surrounded by very dead things. There is a lot of beautiful architecture out there which take on a frightening air because of time and dust. I think because of the religious nature of these trips, the effect is that some of my artwork has a subtly blasphemous flavour (although when actually visiting, I am always respectful of these sites). That said, the most macabre places I visit are frequently in my own head and in the heads of other people.

Red Dot Diva: Which kind of supernatural creature or monster do you love drawing? And why?
OSHred: My favourite monster to draw is the human being. :) But to answer more seriously, I love drawing vampires (which is basically human-shaped anyway). I read Anne Rice's Vampire Chronicles when I was a kid, which I think had an effect on my preferences. A few years ago I was playing a decent amount of Vampire: The Masquerade, so I drew a lot of art of my vampire character, as well as the characters of others. Vampires are easy because if you add a splash of blood to any character, you can basically get away with saying they're a vampire.
Red Dot Diva: I get ya. Vampires are also my thing!

Red Dot Diva: How did you become the cover artist for W0rldtr33 and Source point’s Good Boy? Do you have any tips on how artists can get noticed by publishing companies?
OSHred: I hesitate to give advice on getting hired, because what worked for me might not work for others, and I don't know how applicable the advice will be in a few years considering how fast our industry tends to change. That said, as embarrassing as it may be, don't underestimate the power of networking. I was lucky enough to be noticed by a comic retailer through social media (Instagram specifically), who saw that I was connected with Artgerm and he apparently requested that Stan help establish communication between the two of us. Stan was kind enough to do so, which led to me getting hired for my first variant covers for comic retailers. I like to think it was not one element, but many, that led to me getting hired and continues to help me get hired: I put effort into creating decent quality work with a consistent, recognizable style, as well as maintaining a solid presence on social media and connecting with artists I admire. Maintaining good relationships with current clients also makes them more likely to recommend me to others, and few things are more effective than word of mouth.

Red Dot Diva: Is this the first time participating at Comic conventions in Singapore? Please let us know what can we look forward to, along with your appearance in this year's SGCC.
OSHRed: Yes, this is my first time participating in a comic con in Singapore. I've attended a couple for fun in the past, but it will be my first time tabling. I'll be offering signatures and remarques, dropping off some pre-convention commissions, as well as selling prints of both my original artworks and more popular fanarts. If you are friendly and vaccinated, I might provide hugs (free of charge).

Red Dot Diva: That sounds like a plan! See you soon at the convention!.


You can check out more of OSHred's artwork at her DeviantArt page!

----------------------------

RELATED SINGAPORE COMIC CON (SGCC) 2023 ARTICLES

Singapore Comic Con (SGCC) 2023 Booth Highlight - This One Is For the D&D Dice Gobbos (Ammybunny / Sambal and Mages)

Singapore Comic Con (SGCC) 2023 Artist Highlight - Nathelie Yong's Emo Trash & Etc! Is A 90's Pop-Punk Music Fan's Dream Booth

Singapore Comic Con (SGCC) 2023 Booth Highlight - Hailing All Transformer Fans To Hasbro's Cybertron Fest

Singapore Comic Con (SGCC) 2023 Artist Highlight - Collect 'Em All From Pokémon Fanart Illustrators Abz Art and Trainer K

Singapore Comic Con (SGCC) 2023 Artist Highlight - Wonder At Takahan Tan's Captivating Toy Photography

Singapore Comic Con (SGCC) 2023 Artist Highlight - Discovering Artistry: Allen Erie (Andrea Rosaline)

Singapore Comic Con (SGCC) 2023 - Legendary Comic Book Creators Stan Sakai and Julie Sakai Are Heading To Singapore!

Singapore Comic Con (SGCC) 2023 - Comic Book Guests Galore Including Peach Momoko, Chang Sheng, Martin Simmonds, Ario Anindito and More!

Singapore Comic Con 2023 (SGCC) - Tickets Are Available Right Now!


----------------------------

If you enjoy Red Dot Diva's content, feel free to help her efforts going by showing your support through ko-fi. Thank you!




Tuesday, December 5, 2023

Singapore Comic Con (SGCC) 2023 Booth Highlight - This One Is For the D&D Dice Gobbos (Ammybunny / Sambal and Mages)


We are on the final lap toward the mega pop-culture festival of the year! Singapore Comic Convention (SGCC) spans two floors - L1 and B1 - at Sands Expo & Convention Centre (MBS) - again this year. So, there is a lot to see and do for fans young and old on 9 and 10 December 2023.

This also includes die hard Dungeons and Dragons (Dnd) fans. If you are looking for awesome looking dice sets, you can acquire them at Artist Alley and at the Tabletop Arena in B1. Red Dot Diva's pal Edward, who is a DnD player, found a couple of exhibitors who will be bringing in some enticing dice sets. Here's a quick rundown on Ammybunny and homegrown collective, Sambal And Mages.

----------------------------

Comic conventions are like a mecca for enthusiasts of all things geek, where people of diverse backgrounds and interests come together to celebrate their shared love. It's a place where you can let your inner superhero shine, embrace your inner wizard, or boldly go where no one has gone before. Me? I like my dice.

Though I have all but stopped tabletop gaming and D&D, my insatiable obsession with shiny dice finds me lurking around gaming stores or convention booths, my eyes gleaming with a covetous glint at the sight of glistening dice sets. After all, I still need some for my Magic the Gathering games.

Legend has it that dice goblins have elaborate hoards filled with an eclectic collection of dice, ranging from glittering gem-like D20s to metallic D6s.

Precious materials? YES.
Vibrant, iridescent colours? YES.
How do you find space for more unnecessary dice? YES.

So I went for a quick scout at the wares, and am pleased to report to fellow gobbos my finding.

AMMYBUNNY'S DICE PALS BOOTH [L1-AA19]

Not dice dice but still good. Hard to resist chibi Baldur’s Gate cast with oversized dice but clearly, Astraion should have been nibbling on a D6. Australian-based Ammybunny has dice pet charms and dice pet pillow charms, but will not be bringing them to SGCC. (Very Sad face emoticon).

BGDP will be available as charms ($10) and sticker sheets ($10). Other merch offerings include the very very very inappropriate Ayato Mousepads ($40) and tote bags (see pic below).

Short Q&A with Ammybunny

Ed: If you do not mind sharing, and I'm assuming here, what is your deal (obsession) with dice?
Ammy: I love the unpredictability of them in any RPG. They help make every session fun and memorable!

Ed: What is your ideal seggsy dice?
Ammy: Nicely crafted semi precious stone dice are my fave! I have a set of rose quartz dice that I use for all my DnD sessions.

Ed: Who's your daddy in BG3?
Ammy: I went into the game thinking I would simp for Astarion but fell for the Emperor instead XD


SAMBAL AND MAGES BOOTH [B2-C05]

In the heart of our own community, a group of artisanal dice makers has emerged, crafting gaming treasures, unlike any seen elsewhere. They have appropriately named themselves Sambal And Mages.

I’m in love with the three sets above but they are costly - the washi tape series will set you back $200. They have dice sets that range from $135 to $180, and generally, and we know how things work, the prettier they are, the more expensive they get.

They have yet to announce their SGCC 2023 offerings but don’t expect them to sit around. I bet my last dollar that they will sell out.

If you like some dice jewellery/accessory, check out one of their designs here.



----------------------------

RELATED SINGAPORE COMIC CON (SGCC) 2023 ARTICLES

Singapore Comic Con (SGCC) 2023 Artist Highlight - Nathelie Yong's Emo Trash & Etc! Is A 90's Pop-Punk Music Fan's Dream Booth

Singapore Comic Con (SGCC) 2023 Booth Highlight - Hailing All Transformer Fans To Hasbro's Cybertron Fest

Singapore Comic Con (SGCC) 2023 Artist Highlight - Stay Cool and Cheery With Ven Wong's Adorable Cubemelt

Singapore Comic Con (SGCC) 2023 Artist Highlight - Collect 'Em All From Pokémon Fanart Illustrators Abz Art and Trainer K

Singapore Comic Con (SGCC) 2023 Artist Highlight - Wonder At Takahan Tan's Captivating Toy Photography

Singapore Comic Con (SGCC) 2023 Artist Highlight - Discovering Artistry: Allen Erie (Andrea Rosaline)

Singapore Comic Con (SGCC) 2023 - Legendary Comic Book Creators Stan Sakai and Julie Sakai Are Heading To Singapore!

Singapore Comic Con (SGCC) 2023 - Comic Book Guests Galore Including Peach Momoko, Chang Sheng, Martin Simmonds, Ario Anindito and More!

Singapore Comic Con 2023 (SGCC) - Tickets Are Available Right Now!


----------------------------

If you enjoy Red Dot Diva's content, feel free to help her efforts going by showing your support through ko-fi. Thank you!