Saul Bass animated for Google

I've always been interested in the work of Saul Bass and was delighted to get the opportunity to celebrate his birthday on the Google homepage. From the outset I wanted to celebrate a number of his film credits in succinct succession, as well as a nod in the direction of his poster work. Film rights can be problematic so I wasn't completely sure of the order of cutting, but as it turned out every studio was a pleasure to work with. Corresponding with Jennifer Bass was inspirational and led to hearing that Saul Bass was a Dave Brubeck fan. Although I hadn't synched animation to music we found a Brubeck track that managed to hit the right notes. Again, the Brubeck estate were superb to work with.

I drew everything in Illustrator before animating in After Effects. I hope I found a way to merge Google  with Bass' graphic sensibilities. You'll be able to see the doodle on your countries homepage on Tuesday 7th and Wed 8th May 2013, and also HERE

Devolution

An old blog header idea


Missionary Position#2

 Mexican stand off on Treat & 24th.


Work

Dipping my toe into animation. First test piece in Flash. While we're on the subject of work if anyone wants to buy me and send me around the world painting for them just let me know. You keep all the paintings. Personal artists are all the rage.





Dr Martin Luther King Day

My illustration for todays homepage in the US. My inspiration came from local people and graffiti here in SF.














London Undergound

My illustration for the 150th anniversary of the tube. This is a slightly different version from today's homepage. We didn't run with the character bottom right because the underground logo on his hat was trademarked. TFL were great to work with in every aspect, congratulations on 150 years of service as well as Harry Beck's wonderful iconic map.


Dogpatch

Great part of SF. Looking forward to going back.





L55

Painting from a drawing made on Mission Street-SF















Brothers Grimm.

 Concepts and illustrations for Red Riding Hood on todays Google homepage. Check here for many other  Google illustrations.


Google illustrations Nov 2012

Illustrations created for Mexico's Day Of The Dead and the birthdays of Paul Abadie, Amadeu de Souza Cardoso and Rodin.

No trespassing

Todays 1 hour sketch session.



Marcella

A small boat on display halfway along the pier in Santa Cruz



Scarlett Groove

Every now and then you get to work for the good guys! My cover for "Scarlett Groove"- new EP from Maribou State out Nov 12th.

http://soundcloud.com/mariboustate/summerfolds-feat-nubiya

Half Moon Bay

My first weekend living in CA gave me the chance to visit Half Moon Bay. The drive over was stunning, I can't wait to see more of the landscape.

I made early sketches before 1 small painting on the beach. By late morning the surfers had been replaced by kite flyers. In the town pumpkin fever had taken hold with many locals preparing for the "Art & Pumpkin" festival next weekend. Not sure exactly what that entails but my offering would be a pumpkin inspired painting of this intriguing whale skull on display near the beach.


CTN-X 2012

This November I'll be at the animation expo in L.A to talk about my drawings and my luminaries- please drop in if you can. Here's the poster. Thanks Tina!


Cheers London!

On October 1st I depart London for some California living. I feel really fortunate to have been spotted by Google and look forward to joining their creative team.

Dear London. You've been astounding, frustrating, rewarding and immeasurable on so many levels. You've introduced me to incredible people whilst I've tried to capture you with line and colour. I've sat on your pavements and your comfy seats, and love them both the same! You're an amazing city that's  shaped me as a person, in some small way I hope these images return the favour!

Matt









Mum and I spotted this man in the British Museum staring at the only section of wall that had no paintings on it. After 30 minutes he was still there. I was desperate to ask him why but Mum said,

"Sometimes it's better to leave people like that alone"

Corfe Castle

Menacingly set upon the Purbeck hills, Corfe Castle casts a powerful silhouette as you drive into the village. Built in the 11th century by Ol' Willy the Conquerer it resisted countless sieges before gradually being broken down and used by villagers on their own houses!

Nearly as steep as the hill is the admission. "£7.50?!" my Uncle exclaimed,
"I'm not paying that, half of it's missing!"

So we spent our half crowns and two bob bits on warm ale in The Fox Inn instead. The pub was built in 1568 and has a wonderful little side entrance to its beer garden.

Do you have a wonderful little side entrance?