PERSONE DESIGN BLOG

Teaming up with IMG and Cam Newton

2011-08-18T12:43:00.000-07:00

PERSONE has just been engaged to create and develop various branding materials and logo concepts for NFL quarterback Cam Newton of the Carolina Panthers.

Cam made headlines due to his stellar performance record at Auburn University, as well as his being the NFL's 1st round draft pick in 2011 and winner of the esteemed Heisman trophy in 2010.

PERSONE is working with his management company and agent at IMG to produce several variations of logos and other branding elements to distinguish Mr. Newton's personal brand as well as to complement his existing clothing endorsements with athletic and performance clothier Under Armour and other possible future marketing or endorsement endeavors.

Newton was also featured in a July 2011 GQ magazine interview and photo spread promoting the young athlete.

Serving it up for James Blake Foundation

2011-04-15T15:54:00.000-07:00

PERSONE has just been selected to lead the design and branding for the new James Blake Foundation web site and logo. The Foundation will be focused on approximately 3-4 charity, information awareness and fundraiser events per year, including the event it's hosted for several years, Serving for a Cure. Stay tuned for more updates including the new site projected for later in Summer 2011.

Caldo Jewelry Web Site Re-design

2011-04-08T18:51:00.000-07:00

The creator behind the elegantly crafted pieces from Caldo Jewelry Design approached PERSONE to re-design their website and update the functionality so they could update it more easily by themselves.

Though we were going to build the site in WordPress as the underlying CMS, we wanted to think outside the box and keep things unique and non-linear. By contrast, we also wanted to keep things anchored and focused within a certain range of offerings. We are going to be implementing an e-commerce element to this site as well, so Caldo can sell pieces directly from their site. In addition a slideshow on the homepage will feature several of the designs from each product category or collection.

We are still in development on this project, and will post updates when there's more news!

ArcTouch Video Reel

2011-04-08T18:17:00.000-07:00

ArcTouch, a San Francisco-based mobile application development studio, Our goal was to reposition their marketing focus on agency partnerships, and decided to highlight the many larger brands they have worked and associate the greater name recognition of their clients' brands with their firm's application development services. They have worked with numerous agencies and bigger brands already, and their client list reads like a "who's who" in the advertising industry, something they wanted to impart to the viewers, to encourage them to do business together and to pre-qualify ArcTouch as a premier development partner.

We took individual screenshots and video screen captures of 19 of their branded client applications and composited them into the appropriate devices, making sure to mimic the appropriate display formats and screen sizes as well as possible. We created timed step-throughs of the still images, editing the transitions to go with the beat in the accompanying audio track, and also used the song's timeline to arrange and edit the entire video, synching the visual edits and clips to various parts and transitions within the song.

ArcTouch used this presentation at a conference in Miami on February 25th. It was shown to over 40 different agency CEOs to great response. Over one third of the attendees approached the ArcTouch representative for more information and or to pursue new business together.

More PERSONE project case studies...

Sugar Ray Leonard and CMPR

2011-04-08T16:08:00.000-07:00

PERSONE has just teamed up with Los Angeles-based sports-marketing firm, CMPR (cmpr.net) to assist with interactive marketing, creative and production services and maintain their company web site and that of prize-winning boxing legend, Sugar Ray Leonard (sugarrayleonard.net).

We have worked with CMPR before on an advertisement for Moves Magazine and have also developed several projects with another of their clients, a film production company called Red Bird Cinema (redbirdcinema.com).

Stay tuned for actual content updates, as yet we are just announcing the news! ;)

Live Music Performance for Archetype Fashion Show @ SF Public Works

2011-02-14T12:54:00.000-08:00

We are proud to announce our latest live music performance from last Friday night at Archetype boutique's fashion show at San Francisco's Public Works. We collaborated with live percussionist Daniel Diaz-Tai, who represented on the cajon and also electronically with a Roland Handsonic drum pad, and also accompanied a live opera performance and improvisation by Maki Noguchi during the three parts of the runway show.

First, we created our music demo for the event by sampling electronic inspired beats and arranging them in a studio produced track, with textural samples taken primarily from the futuristic Blade Runner movie soundtrack performed by Vangelis, and we also used several popular opera tracks and used vocals and sampled effects from CDs that were looped and recorded to a Logic timeline. Once in Logic, we had greater control to dissect the rhythms and beats and determine which were the most effective sounds for the improvisation and collaboration with Maki and Daniel. In addition, we resampled live drum loops that worked well and ultimately used Ableton Live to collect all of the final sounds and for live playback during the show.

After creating the original concept piece that we would use to promote the show and also as a basis for the improvisation, we also re-sampled some of the elements and created individual stems for the various parts in the show. Some of the new work included several orchestral and string samples that were used to counterbalance the live vocals and give atmospheric elements to use in a call and response manner during the performance.

Ultimately, having the sounds separated into their own stems was hugely effective as it allowed us to reduce the overall arrangements down to their most basic sounds, and enabled us to mix in the other tracks as needed for emphasis and or to punctuate certain sequences in the show. It also allowed us to compensate for room dynamics and mix the bass parts including the kick drum and bass synths individually a bit lower than originally composed in order to accomodate the equalization and bass-heavy response of the club's system.

For more info see any of the following links:

Facebook invite with info
Archetype boutique's web site
Jasmin Zorlu Blog

Featured Los Angeles and Bay Area Designers

Bahida Dolic // www.behidadolic.com/
Chemline // chemlineapparel.com/
Danielle Pettee // www.daniellethedressmaker.com/
Jazmine Zorlu // www.jasminzorlu.com/
Kittenhawk // www.kittinhawk.com/
Kucoon // www.kucoondesigns.com/
Ric Rac Clothing // www.ricracclothingco.com/

Top 12 Ways to Cultivate Great Success!

2011-02-01T13:48:00.000-08:00

In this tough economy, I am being forced to think differently, to evolve new strategies and new approaches to staying in business and continuing to develop my graphic design business (www.personedesign.com) and continue building my studio as a resource for graphic design, web and mobile development as well as sound design and audio production and related services.

I am feeling incredibly challenged by my own inner demons also…beliefs that maybe I’m not destined to succeed with my own business, that I should capitulate, give up, and sell out, go back to the Man and get a “real job” at an ad agency somewhere.

At present I am at a critical point in this process as I really have to decide what I truly want and I also have to make it happen, so I can keep living in San Francisco and continue to grow as a person, as a leader and as a spirit continuing to strive for enlightenment in my current situation and present circumstances.

Given this all, I have been seeking encouragement and guidance for how I can best succeed and accomplish my dreams and want to share what I am learning, experiencing and collating from various sources, including some venerable Nichiren Buddhist mentors from the SGI-USA and also from within my own life experience:

--

First, no matter what the problem, or what the obstacle or situation we face, we always have the answer inside of us, inside our own life. We truly determine our lives moment by moment as a result of our expectations and our internal attitudes that impel us to challenge or acquiesce when confronted with beliefs or situations that could either hold us back, or inspire us to rise up, rally, conquer and succeed.

In all situations, we must reveal the knowledge and wisdom that we have inside ourselves…and trust that we can and will succeed. We must trust in what we know, and in what we believe…trust in what we have experienced and what we are. We must trust in our dreams and believe that they are valid and valuable and that they guide us through the experiences we most need in our life. This is, in fact, the truth of the matter, since they invariably do lead us through our lives. Truly they are part of what makes us unique beings and we must trust that our goals and dreams are worthwhile…worth fighting for and worth really living for.

Since we already have what it takes inside of ourselves, what must we do to reveal the answers? Here are some of the top strategies that I have found and am using to stay on top of my challenges.

1) SPIRIT. Chant, pray, meditate or do whatever you do to connect deeply to your Spirit. The main battle is inside us…not outside, and the most fundamental and powerful change comes from the inside out. Believing in ourselves comes from within and affects the outer world fundamentally and immeasurably.

2) STUDY. Get more information and become more prepared, and more exposed and receptive to challenging new ideas… Even if our ways and ideas are hardened, in time they can soften and erode like water on rock.

3) SERVE. We are here as part of a community, no matter how removed we may feel. It is always important to consider this aspect of reality and also how we can most positively help or assist this community. This is especially true if one is experiencing hardship or difficulty with a service-oriented business or product that is made for people to use.

4) GREATNESS. It is of the utmost importance to focus on greatness and uphold high ideals. Parallel to this is not giving into negativity…whether that’s negative impulses from within ourselves, negative influences or pressure from other people or external sources. If we don’t shoot for the stars, how can we hope to escape the same, familiar orbits?

5) OPEN. Bend like a reed in the wind, don’t become too rigid…or you might snap instead of bending. In other words, cultivate yielding and bending gracefully with change. Life is ever-changing. We must always remain open to changing the way things are done, and the way we live our lives. If not, patterns become routine and life can lose its luster. To keep things fresh, we need to experience a variety of enriching, enlivening experiences. Part of what keeps things enriching and enlivening is the fact that these experiences are new…so our brain has to stretch and grow in able to understand it and process what is or has happened. This is vital to keeping oneself learning and active and always developing new pathways in the brain, which expand our mental acuity and brainpower.

6) BELIEVE. TRUST. HAVE FAITH. We already have the answers within ourselves and our lives, it is just a matter of revealing them to the world. It is extremely important to believe. That belief can also come from doing everything in your power to succeed. Consistently challenge obstacles and negativity and do everything possible to be successful and build successful habits. “The cost of freedom is eternal vigilance” or so Thomas Jefferson once said. In this, we must remain eternally vigilant against our own negativity most of all, and of this, the belief that we can succeed and that we are worthy of solving our problems and or achieving our dreams is paramount, as it will assist us most in elevating our mentality and challenging our negativity with the most elevated, enlightened thoughts.

7) NEVER say die. It’s hard to beat someone who never quits. If we quit along the way, it will be impossible to experience the wild successes we could have accomplished if we never stopped trying or achieving. In addition, part of the joy of a truly fulfilling life comes from being challenged and living up to these challenges…confronting and conquering them! Becoming victorious over obstacles brings incredible joy, security in oneself and encouragement to others, so never stop believing or challenging negativity or obstacles!

8) BRAINSTORM. This has always helped me to become aware of things that are already within my grasp. We have to act first within our primary circle of influence…where we already have access and can already affect things physically or contact other people in our network. It is from here that we can reach greater distances and meet more new people from whom we will learn and with whom we will lead the rest of our lives…but we must be present and start where we are now.

9) NETWORK. Our community is our lifeline to the rest of the world and universe…the truth of Life at every moment… These people and connections have the power to feed us with energy and support us in our lifetimes, and it’s important to stay connected. If we serve our community, our community will serve us. Also if we focus on other people (not ourselves or our own problems), we have greater perspective to view our own situation and can generate compassion for others and ourselves as well.

10) Be ACTIVE. It is far better to be doing things, than in-active or just passively thinking things over… Moreover, we often regret less the things we do, than the things we don’t do…and it’s often said that “it’s easier to ask for forgiveness than to ask for permission,” not to mention that we don’t even really have to ask for these things too often, especially not from ourselves when we are acting in the interest of achievement and accomplishing our own innermost and wildest dreams! Also, there’s probably always something more we can do to prepare ourselves for greater success, so do MORE! And, do it even better than before! Go for it!

11) CELEBRATE! It's important to celebrate our victories along the way and all of the conditions in our lives that have helped us to achieve these victories—even the setbacks! Also, it's important to truly value these things because they are precisely the experiences—which make up the fabric of our very own lives—that we must live through in order to accomplish our dreams, so we mustn’t disparage LIFE or any of the mysterious obstacles we encounter...without these defining features in the landscape of our lives, we wouldn't be who we are today.

12) REPEAT! PRACTICE! REFRESH. RENEW YOUR DETERMINATION. Life is about the journey. It is a process, and always good to stay fresh and current with goals and motivations to make sure we stay on track with what’s truly important to us in any given moment. It’s okay to change, too…it’s only natural, but the important part is to be aware of our goals, and always keep facing our obstacles with fierce determination!

--

Mind you this does not imply that we will never be hindered by our negativity or by appearances of failure. Moreover that to truly succeed and be victorious through out our whole lives…we must NEVER say die, NEVER give up, and always rise up with a courageous attitude, one imbued with VICTORY, and promise, supported by faith, experience, trust and by an understanding of our own human psychology, of our true spiritual manifestation and by deconstructing the duality of the Self.

Onwards and upwards my friends! To victory and success!

Updating a web site for iPad, iPhone and other mobile platforms

2011-01-18T18:13:00.000-08:00

The first thing to consider is whether you want to do a simple adjustment of some of your existing site’s parameters, or if you would like to develop another modified mobile-specific site with different page dimensions and possibly slightly alter the link structure and content offerings as well.

Depending on which device you are planning for, the screen resolution will be one of the most important limitations to consider. The iPad has a resolution of 1024 x 768 px and can rotate horizontally or vertically. Many smart phones also rotate but the visible display area at 100% resolution is much smaller than most desktop screens, iPad or other tablets. This is especially important when designing multiple site versions for mobile platforms. Many mobile platforms have their own distinct resolutions, so if you are targeting a particular device for functionality, make sure to find the specific dimensions of that device and accommodate the design as needed.

Another thing to consider is readability of the text at smaller sizes and with smaller screens devoted to reading or browsing. Proper CSS and even customized layouts with appropriate accommodation for text scaling are essential for smooth functionality and maximum usability on mobile devices.

With this reduced screen size, the size and placement of links is also hugely important when it relates to mobile functionality. When designing for smaller screens, the size of the buttons should increase in consideration of the fact that the “cursor” is not a 1 x 1 px mouse pointer, but rather a 100-200 pixel fingertip (roughly) that will have much less precision when clicking between lists of links, especially without extra user scaling. Also, keep in mind that there is no rollover functionality (hover in CSS) so rollover descriptions and additional effects become even more obscured. Consider making links more visible and larger, and link selection simpler also, with fewer options, somewhat more akin to touch-screen kiosks or ATM machines.

Getting slightly into technology, besides a fully redesigned and mobile tailored page layout, you can modify most of a web site’s parameters by creating a separate CSS file and having your web site detect the browser/OS and serve browser specific stylesheets including mobile and iPad versions.

Last but not least in this list of major considerations is the lack of Flash support on Apple’s iOS. I know many other mobile platforms do support Flash, partly as a way to attract customers from the iPad market. However, with this there is also a new wave of HTML 5 technology for many kinds of media files. This is becoming the new standard supported by Apple amongst others. If you are using Flash, a simple static image of the Flash element from the web site is a minimal touch as a placeholder. That way, even if you lose the motion or functionality of the Flash element, you will still maintain some level of consistency with page designs.

The multi-touch, tablet computer surface is a game-changer and has been since the onset of the first iPhone. Within minutes of first engaging with an iPad I inadvertently touched my cinema display to try to pan the screen over. I couldn’t believe it… yet it seemed so intuitive at the same time. With the tablet marketplace and also multi-touch surface technology exploding at the moment, I can’t wait to see the next generation of devices and how they integrate into the fabric of our already technology saturated culture.

For additional information on customizing web sites for mobile applications, contact us with specific inquiries. PERSONE can now offer iOS application development as well, so make sure to ask about that new iPad application that you have been wanting to develop, too! ;)

When FEVER strikes!

2010-09-16T16:50:00.000-07:00

How does inspiration find me? All of a sudden I am slammed with a compulsion to create... My senses have gotten so splashed with new experience and color and elemental depth over the last couple of weeks that I am bubbling over with energy attempting to process and replicate or approach many of the incredible visual and musical encounters that I have just had...

Returning Man...the return from this year's Burning Man, an arts and music festival and experiment in community that takes place a few hours North of Reno, NV, in the Black Rock Desert. Aside from an otherwise challenging readjustment to urban life, the music and installation art out there this year got me going on a very deep level. Within a few days of being there I was exploring the desert and various art pieces constantly. I stood awestruck by some of the pieces and their beauty as well as technical execution and scale, especially in such a remote location. The artistry and vision I continue to experience out there is mind-expanding. I always come back realizing that I don't really know much at all. There is so much more that I don't know and so much AMAZING creation out "there" it literally astounds me.

Some of the music this year was incredible, magnetic to such a point that I walked across the entire desert in search of a sound...the sound that would define this year's festival, only to turn back and follow my ears back to an art car that I had heard in the middle of the festival's outlying area (ie: mid-deep playa, beyond the Temple). I also had the opportunity to do a Mystik DJ set (for more info and downloadable dj mixes see www.mystiksound.com) out there also (thanks to Loic at Tetropolis!) and tag-teamed a 2 hr set with my friend Spacelotus through the sweltering heat of the afternoon. Looking out over the inner desert with all of the people on their own paths was a totally musical and meditative journey, taking my cues from the other DJ and interweaving our musical styles in a cohesive mix and creating a deep afternoon soundtrack for the unfolding festival.

Upon my return, I have been dusting everything off, for sure, but I have also been stretching my creativity and resources to capture some of the precious essence from my recent experiences and attempting to truly understand it, partially by opening my creativity to encompass new and diverse influences as well processing and learning to recreate aspects of it on a technical and production level. My attention has been raptly fixated on these experiences, soaring on the afterglow and gliding back to "reality."

This kind of inspiration is priceless and can be hard to summon at will. However, when it strikes, this fuel from beyond propels me further along my path, boosts my energy levels, heightens my perception and directs me from within. Even when I don't recognize it, but especially when I do; things become more meaningful and clearer in many ways. I am now and *always* processing and channelling insight and guidance from the Great Spirit into being and manifestation.

Fortunately, probably as a result of my recent inspiration and blast from the deeper Self, I have been able to remember this much more and embrace many more moments of beauty and friendship recently. This is one of the lessons I will attempt to hold on to from my 12th journey to the desert. That only now, when the moment and all of the conditions are just perfectly right, can my experience be fully awakened and realized and contain the most depth and power to influence my very own present, past and future. That I absolutely must value and appreciate every moment as fully as I possibly can in that moment, because soon it will be the past and not accessible except in memory, which fades and becomes illusory, for the rest of time.

Red Bird Cinema Image Development

2010-05-12T13:29:00.000-07:00

PERSONE DESIGN and Red Bird Cinema have just teamed up to develop a series of iconographic images for the production company’s roster of upcoming projects.

Of the Red Bird productions, PERSONE has already completed a poster for the upcoming film “3 Nights In August” a story based on a book called “Three Nights In August” about baseball’s 2006 World Series Champion St. Louis Cardinal’s manager Tony La Russa which was written by Pulitzer Prize winner H.G. “Buzz” Bissinger (who also wrote “Friday Night Lights”). Actor and writer Kevin Pollak did the screenplay adaptation. You can see the "3 Nights In August" Poster on the PERSONE website.

Also forthcoming from Red Bird Cinema are a biopic about boxing legend Sugar Ray Leonard, who has endorsed the production. Bissinger will also be writing the screenplay. In addition, PERSONE will be exploring graphical treatments for a film called "Waiting for Helen", and "A Different Shade of Rose" about former baseball player Pete Rose. You can find out more about these projects on the Red Bird Cinema website.

Red Bird Cinema was founded in 2006 by producer John Loar, St. Louis Cardinals former manager Tony La Russa, producer, managing director, actor and writer Kevin Pollak. They have also begun developing projects with Billy Bob Thornton as well.

TRANSMUTATION: Analyzing change from the inside

2010-04-28T16:02:00.000-07:00

Change—the inevitable, as we know—often brings itself about through mutations, arising out of stressed or unnatural development environments. Alternately, it can also arise out of purely random happenstance.

Mutations can be positive growths as much as negative blockages or episodes just as well as abstract energetic or concrete physical manifestations. Some quantum leaps in thought, technology, or other forms of innovation or development require constricting, pressurized situations which ultimately create a seemingly super-creative state in the participants, where interactions and thoughts are heightened around a certain focal point. These revelations or breakthroughs might not have been possible given a less intense developmental environment when the thought cells and molecules started firing in more symbiotic and additive ways.

Often we can’t control these things, that which we can control or at least attempt with some realistic hope of achieving our ends pursue would be attitudes, efforts, inputting our own resources like quality attention, time, energy, thought and creativity. In the absence of other resources what we do have to offer, and yet more importantly what we can continue to offer over time is undoubtedly our greatest asset towards creating our own extremely sustained and thus change-enhancing mutations and quantum leaps in our own life conditions.

One of my own personal journeys in understanding the complexities and depth involved in confronting change through every day efforts and the composite effects came about through my own contact and involvement with Nichiren Buddhism and the discipline and strength I have found through my own studies, practice and faith. The practice—already a key fundamental aspect towards developing anything—is incredibly re-assuring and grounded, being based on the law of cause and effect, in other words, creating causes inevitably results in effects. So, by directing energy towards "positive" causes, and sustaining them—especially through periods of trial and difficulty which are also inevitable—one WILL, over time, create a longer overall climate conducive to a malleable or direct-able change.

Now that’s something I can believe in.

Enjoy local art at Spring OPEN STUDIOS in the Mission!

2010-04-22T13:31:00.000-07:00

PERSONE DESIGN & MYSTIK SOUND - studio #403 - will be open this Friday evening from 7-11 PM for Mission Artists United Spring Open Studios!

Friends and guests are welcome to stop by the studio #403 for a fresh taste of PERSONE’s graphical & web goodies and the latest MYSTIK tracks, DJ sets and live arrangements during an opening night kick-off party THIS FRIDAY evening at ActivSpace. STUDIO #403 is on the 4th floor. Come on up! Refreshments will be provided!

Also, there will be many more participating studios open at ActivSpace and around the Mission Friday evening, as well as Saturday and Sunday from 11-6 PM for the Mission Artists United Spring Open Studios Weekend!

Enjoy local art!!!

PERSONE DESIGN & MYSTIK SOUND
ACTIVSPACE #403
3150 18th Street
@ Treat St. between Folsom & Harrison in SF - Map

Modern Epicurean Dualism

2010-04-14T12:50:00.000-07:00

Last week as I was driving to my tax accountant to hand over some paperwork, I was listening to the Northern California-based KPFA radio show Against the Grain featuring British philosopher and author Mark Vernon as he discussed his latest book "Plato’s Podcasts: The Ancients’ Guide to Modern Living."

During the discussion—all of which I found entirely fascinating—Vernon described some of the tenets of Epicurean philosophy based on the classical thinker himself. To summarize the depth and greatness of his thoughts, Vernon said Epicurus would have prescribed to a vastly different theory than the hedonistic, sense-loving impression one might believe nowadays, instead adhering to a “less is more” mentality in his living and thought process.

I understood that Epicurus would savor essential ingredients in life, food, or other experiences, contenting himself with wholeness and purity of substance. He would not necessarily appreciate things excessively or obsessively, but with a more refined, sophisticated and self-controlled approach to enjoyment and pleasure.

Existing in a modern world that at times seems like a whirlwind around me, I am incredibly attracted to a pared down “less is more” lifestyle and approach to modern living, especially where I am now in San Francisco, CA. As a designer and musician, writer, and communicator, I devote a lot of time towards the editing process, constantly reducing, tightening, clearing, opening and simplifying and organizing information intelligently so as to present a more ordered, cohesive and positively resonant result. I find this reduction and distillation process incredibly creative and powerful. My understanding is, that even the very tenets of modern architecture and design advocate a reduction to and focus on essential elements.

As I reduce life’s complexities further and further, simplifying my perspective and processes, I can glimpse how I am just a little part of a much bigger, more complex whole. Like a cell or molecule, performing a relatively simple task, I find my tasks, even as complex as they can seem to be, are a part of some larger movement towards greater global evolution of consciousness and do propel me towards a greater ideal.

My question, now, is this. Is that ideal fundamentally “more is more” as my mind or the mass-media saturated “modern” world (at least here in SF/USA) or “less is more?” More “Super Size me” or more the subtle, vast vacancy of the Wheel of Life , the Middle Way or the Tao?

The next question I might pose beyond all of that is how can I train and develop myself to perceive and proceed as such from here on in…? Ever present, ever aware of my role in the bigger picture, and always able to access the simple, direct aspects to my actions and thought??? Should I think more? Study more...train more??? Or think less and be more? How can I be less is more?

Wild Animus Web Site Launch

2009-11-12T16:41:00.000-08:00

PERSONE DESIGN has just successfully launched a new, fully-featured web site for Wild Animus, the most recent collaborative project from experimental storyteller, author, singer and artist Rich Shapero. PERSONE teams worked in sync with San Mateo-based Too Far Independent Media and Marin-based Interactive Media Agency (IMA) to complete the latest online version of this multimedia storytelling experiment as well as an update to the Rich Shapero info site.

This site was a significant update to the previous version as it re-structured both Wild Animus and the Rich Shapero info site as well as integrated several elements that had been designed for the Eugene Von Bruenchenhein online gallery site, standardized user interface and layout elements as well as having updated core functionalities such as the standard and full-screen gallery applications and other media players which were custom-built for these sites using Flash.

The update also includes each of the 3 CDs from the newly completed box set, which is featured in the Music section and also on sale via the Rich Shapero Store. Also highlighted are the newly redesigned François Burland Wild Animus Series gallery of Art Brut paintings, and a three chapter preview of Wild Animus the novel.

Partnering with Process Metrix

2009-09-25T14:27:00.001-07:00

Process Metrix, a bay area high-tech company that evolved from a startup in 1987 into a now long-standing and accomplished team of Master's and Ph. D. level scientists and innovative process control product developers, has chosen PERSONE to re-design their web site and re-address their company and product branding.

Based in Pleasanton, CA, the Process Metrix team focuses on all elements of research and development through production, software development, installing training and supporting their impressive array of incredibly precise and scientifically cutting-edge instrumentation.

Their instruments use laser technology to measure particle concentration, flow dynamics, heat refractor imaging and more providing real-time data acquisition and capturing huge amounts of information which can be visualized or processed with their own proprietary software and hardware systems.

Watch out for the new site in late 2009 or early 2010!

www.processmetrix.com

All Roads Lead To Rome

2009-06-19T12:55:00.000-07:00

Even those twisty, windy, curvy, up and down hill roads, too! The Path of the Dragon. There can be diversions along the way, but ultimately, as long as there is intention to get to some other space...I am finding more and more that there are innumerable ways to accomplish any given task or objective.

Take modern web production as an example... Nowadays pages are much more flexible, dynamic, and faster and flashier than ever. Designs with higher resolution, high color depth, animations, info popups and mouseovers abound... As I am approaching the planning process for many projects, the styles of production are beginning to overlap more and more... For example, nowadays we can use javascript for animations and dynamic elements, or we could use Flash. We can use HTML & CSS to format styles and build beyond the boundaries of yesteryear... Our tools are becoming much more powerful, flexible, dynamic and agile... PHP, XML, DHMTL, Python, MySQL, Drupal, Magento or Django or any number of other technologies and platforms for production and integration, that it is becoming infinitely more important to understand truly what one is trying to accomplish, and then in some ways after choosing an appropriate direction based on those goals, to float within the boundaries of that flowing river, because it, too, is flowing to Rome, and most likely you will get there eventually.

Another current of ever fluctuating means lies in the realm of Music. Specifically, production and live performance. There are so many tools out there for each, software packages with virtual instruments, digital audio workstations (DAW), hardware synths, soft synths, MIDI controllers, plug-ins and other such contraptions and whatzits that it's hard to truly evaluate how something can truly be constructed...or de-constructed. I just saw a presentation by New Zealand electronic live act Pitch Black (pitchblack.co.nz) last night--which was awesome by the way--about how they set up their live set and controllers for a performance.

Having started producing my own music by working on live PAs, their descriptions enthralled me and stretched my mind as to how I could accomplish similarly functional workflow methods of organizing songs and mixer strips with my current gear. Even before last night, I had been really contemplating and experimenting with various ways to resurrect my old Yamaha RM1X groove box and Korg Electribe ER-1 for a newly inspired live set, if only to contribute if not drive the show anymore as it used to in my first live electronica performances as The Loomii (mystikluminate.com/theloomii) with my brother and now Mystik Luminate (mystikluminate.com).

Not to diverge too far into audio fanaticism, but suffice it to say that there are just about as many ways to produce music and perform live as there are musicians and live performers... Of course, just as there are as many opinions as people on the planet.

Ultimately, what that means to me is to use every means possible or appropriate to accomplish something. That may include a lot of experimentation and inevitable challenges as obstacles come up, however if we have enough persistence to surmount those obstacles--along with great determination to succeed and accomplish my goals--than the way will present itself through the various experiences and choices we make to accomplish those goals. And, we too, will wind up in Rome.

VonBruenchenhein.com is alive!

2009-05-19T18:03:00.000-07:00

Von who? Eugene Von Bruenchenhein, that's who. I had never heard of the late painter when I was first approached by Silicon Valley publishing company Too Far Independent Media about producing a web site for his work, but when I saw a glimpse of his paintings I was instantly excited about the project.

VonBruenchenhein.com just launched "officially" this past week. That means we can all take a deep breath, relax, and enjoy Eugene's wonderfully detailed paintings in extremely high-resolution images, and in a new full-screen, zoomable format that Too Far and PERSONE had pioneered for the François Burland Art Brut gallery relating to experimental storyteller and project visionary Rich Shapero's project Wild Animus.

The coolest thing about the site, imho, is hands-down, the full-screen gallery itself. That is besides EVB's handiwork...which goes without saying. So click into the gallery index and select any of 22 conceptually titled galleries, within which are selections of EVB's paintings. Next click the FULL SCREEN VIEW button on the bottom right of any of the gallery image pages, and you'll be transported into a hi-definition version of online gallery viewing.

Depending on what your screen size is you're in for a treat. The images are up to 300 dpi and some have actual painting size dimensions...so, we're talking VERY high resolution, and also VERY, VERY, VERY, DETAILED! The navigational element expands with mouseover offering a limited set of zooming and navigational controls, and it also pops open a larger menu with gallery navigation, gallery index, downloads, and even an audio player to listen to the late Eugene Von Bruenchenhein himself while browsing his art.

Celebrate!

2009-04-21T14:33:00.000-07:00

'Tis the season! Spring and rebirth is upon us! Along with being a "spring chicken" and having just celebrated my birthday (WOOHOO!!), I am constantly reminded nowadays at how much I have to celebrate!

One GREAT thing to celebrate is coming up tomorrow, EARTH DAY! I'm doubly excited this year because in addition to loving our dear planet, I was also honored to contribute design services towards a campaign that elevates awareness about our planet and the impacts of taking accessible actions to protect its health as well as promote a forthcoming Disneynature documentary called "EARTH."

I'm also psyched for the onset of Spring and Summer and excited to be working with Ideal Bite again on another promotional campaign for Summer.

In a larger sense, I am also seeing my continued efforts starting to bear at least some signs of an early bud before the inevitable blossoming flowers and fruit, as I continue to nourish the seeds planted earlier this year, during darker, more barren and truly wintry times. It's exciting to see the Law of cause and effect coming into manifestation. Truly something to CELEBRATE!

Disney-owned Ideal Bite partners with PERSONE for online Earth Day Promotion

2009-02-26T14:17:00.000-08:00

Ideal Bite, (www.idealbite.com) a company focused on distributing eco-friendly and “light” green living tips via free regional or themed email newsletters, is partnering with PERSONE for the design and production of an integrated promotional campaign designed to increase email registrations and cross-promote the new Disney Nature documentary film release of "Earth" in time for Earth Day 2009.

We’re excited to be a part of this campaign for many reasons… First, it strikes a deep chord to be involved in a good cause, raising visibility and awareness of our planet’s health and vitality. We’re also excited to work with Ideal Bite again and partner with Disney Nature in promotion of their new film. Key elements for the campaign include a co-branded micro-site, banner advertisements, an HTML email and printed mailers.

The promotion, set to launch in late March will raise visibility for Ideal Bite’s web site, increase registration for their email-based tip newsletters, promote Disney Nature’s "Earth," raise environmental awareness and celebrate Earth Day on April 22, 2009.

Twitter me this, twitter me that!

2009-02-18T17:28:00.000-08:00

PERSONE, having just lunched with friend from Solipsis Design, is now contemplating the true essence of branding and identity design, especially as it applies to extending into new territory and landing new business with a specific demographic of industry clients.

We appreciate the attention to detail and chic utilitarianism of modern art, fashion and luxury oriented design. The idea of understated elegance or walking softly appeals, reminding us that there can be many currents under the surface of a calm sea.

On that note, we just entered the twitter frenzy... Follow us online at: www.twitter.com/personedesign

PERSONE selected to develop Eugene Von Bruenchenhein online gallery

2009-02-10T15:43:00.001-08:00

Silicon Valley publishing company Too Far Independent Media (TFIM) has selected PERSONE to produce and develop it's next online project, destined to be the premier online gallery for painter Eugene Von Bruenchenhein.

The site is currently in production and will feature many of Von Bruenchenhein's paintings, categorized in 22 themed galleries. It will also feature biographical information, and a selection of audio clips containing various perspectives on EVB's life and work process, including some of his own recordings.

This site will also feature a custom full-screen gallery application, complete with navigational functionality, high-resolution zoom, and free image download functionality.

Stay tuned for launch, currently scheduled for April 2009.

PERSONE just launched another successful web project with TFIM, completing production of a bio-site for owner and experimental storyteller Rich Shapero (www.richshapero.com) and a site for Mr. Shapero's first major collaborative storytelling project Wild Animus (www.wildanimus.com).

PERSONE produced the rich media elements for these sites, including the audiobook player, music player, François Burland gallery, and full-screen, zoomable gallery and collaborated with Marin-based IMA Interactive who did the other production. The sites were designed by San Francisco-based Big Wig Design

PERSONE: Enter the Blog

2009-02-05T18:00:00.000-08:00

PERSONE has entered the world of blogging. After many months of consideration we have just now overcome our initial hesitation to jump on the band-wagon or divide our attention from client work and other marketing efforts. Yes, we have changed our official policy and are now the real new kids on the block. Move over NKOTB.

Why you might ask? Well, for the very reason that we are expanding our marketing coverage to include more active networking and blogs being cross-linkable, searchable, relevant, industry specific, and frequently (or at least periodically) updated should generate traffic to our web site, buzz surrounding our design work and business and add depth to our total marketing package.

We just launched our new web site at www.personedesign.com in late 2008 and are looking forward to another year of excellent collaborations and successful projects!

Contact us via telephone at 415.863.2575 or info@personedesign.com if you have specific inquiries about our rates, services or have any questions about our business!