Steampunk: Victorian Futurism

I appreciated the style before I knew it had a name. I enjoyed this retro-futuristic aesthetic in films like the Golden Compass, League of Extraordinary Gentlemen, Hellboy 1 & 2, and Van Helsing. The name for this style is Steampunk. Steampunk is a derivitive of cyberpunk culture, a style emerging from punk and the information age of cyberspace. Steampunk is Victorian futurism, in other words, imagining the future through Victorian (steampowered) era and film noir eyes. The style emerged in the 80s and 90s and can be seen in literature, fashion, decor, art, gadgets, and music. A similar genre/style is dieselpunk, which focuses on the period between World War I and II, exemplified in movies like Sky Captain and the World of Tomorrow, and Dark City. At least now I have a name for this style I have enjoyed in art and film.

Rat Rod by Leo

Self Portait: Linoleum Block Print

Monster Revolt! Dirty Donny

"Dirty" Donny Giles's art reminds me of Ed "Big Daddy" Roth with his monsters and hot rods. I just bought his recently released book "Monster Revolt" that contains his artwork. He is having a book signing a week from tomorroy here in Portland at People's Art of Portland, 700 SW 5th, suite 4005, from 5-9 pm. I'm going to try and make it.

Drew Struzan: Movie Poster Illustrator

The artistic style of Drew Struzan is easily recognizable. His illustrations for movies are detailed, colorful, well designed, and the likenesses of the stars are uncanny! Struzan attended Art Center College of Design in LA, where I visited and dreamed of attending when I lived in LA at the age of 19. He has done more than 150 posters and countles illustrations with an unforgettable style and precision. A book on his art and another on his posters is available at Amazon.

Church Bulletin Art!

Ever wonder what to do during a boring sermon? Need to revert to your childhood during a simpleminded children's sermon? Need to occupy your time during the sharing about aunt so-and-so's toe operation or someone's missionary braggadocio? How about when your white congregation tries to sing African songs with about as much rhythm as a robot? Well, try new Church Bulletin Art! Just look at the graphics on your church bulletin and change the words or pictures into something more interesting! It's simple! It's easy! And it's fun! That's what I do and now I look forward to going to church every Sunday!!

Boys and girls, can you find the Mennonite Church USA logo (green bird with leaves) and the word "h-u-m-a-n" on the bulletins below? Sure you can! Just give it a try.

* This commercial was brought to you by the same people that brought you "No Doze Sermon Pills."

Middle East Jam

05 Middle East Jam by Leo Hartshorn

Guaguanco Jam

Guaguanco Jam by Leo Hartshorn

A drum jam Conrad Moore and I recorded at his home in Lancaster, PA back in 2003.