feel the colors of life - arts, life, travel, moving down under

Goodbye 26 Nagore Road

2012-01-29T16:43:00.000+08:00

26 Nagore Road, where I started my new path of life in arts. And.. now pointing me to a new destination. Another 8 days, we will be in Canberra.

Started to miss my family already. I'm not sure how I could cope with it.

sob sob..

Merry Christmas!! ... Greetings from Penang

2011-12-16T22:38:00.000+08:00

Make your own slide show at Animoto.

Penang for 3 Months

2011-11-11T20:46:00.000+08:00

We are back to Penang for 3 months till after Chinese New Year.

While setting the business ready for our new partners, we have more time to spend with our family. Bought two folding bikes, (ready to send to Canberra soon... ) . haa.. had a fun ride at U-Garden corridor. .. See my mama in the photo? happy that I could have a chance to ride with her, she is good ... she could ride an '8' in a small space like this, see my sister, Eng, in the next photo? haa.. she is really weak, can't even make a 'U' turn and my cute little niece, ErnErn, she is the most sporty! ask for a race. I am going to miss her a lot!!

Our one month Canberra recce trip ended with just a blink of eye. It ended too fast, and it cost us a bomb! But we had really enjoyed our time, and we appreciate the experience. At least now, we know how far Gunghalin is, well it is just a 20 minutes drive away, everywhere is so near and conveniently accessible. Beside the high rental, I would love living there. People are friendly, you would walk into a shop seeing a big smile on the sales girl face who will greet you, "How are you today?" as you walk up to a bus, the driver also greets you with a happy tone "How is your day?" how cool is that. Or maybe, we haven't really started to work and get ourselves busy, that's why we feel so relax and enjoy and everything seems so good and beautiful. See how it goes next after February.

Let's countdown to 7th February 2012.

We have booked our ticket on AirAsia to depart on 7th February 2012 from Penang to KL then to Melbourne. And, Virgin Australia from Melbourne to Canberra the next day, arriving Canberra on 8th February.

My Days in Canberra

2011-10-16T11:25:00.001+08:00

We walk everyday across this junction. This morning is beautiful to start with blue bright sky and cooling breeze.

and, along the way, you might find a hidden gem, this morning I found this hidden rose.

One of the old bus stops in Reid.

Though, we have subscribed Telstra pre-paid broadband, but we still prefer McCafe for the FREE internet access, due to the expensive braodband cost.. no choice we have to walked 1.5km to McCafe, Braddon .. to save for browsing, blogging and Facebook.

Beautiful Canberra

2011-10-14T10:30:00.002+08:00

Beautiful lake with nice jogging and cycling path. The greens and the blue sky and the cold breeze ... so calm and soothing.

And the good news is, it's getting warmer!

the sun is out, and we can hang our laundry out under the sun!

2011-10-08T17:57:00.001+08:00

Have not been updating for quite a time yeah, due to the expensive prepaid broadband cost, hmm.. dare not upload too many photo in my blog.

We have been to Floriade, and the tulips is stunning.

The, we hired a car, and drove to Newcastle stayed for two nights in Oriental Hotel, a pub accommodation, nice clean and tidy budget place to stay. During our stay,we had visited the Art Gallery at Maitland, we spent quite a long hour there in their exhibition, awesome artworks! On the way back to Canberra we had stopped by NSW Southern Highlands town, Mittagong, Bowral and Moss Vale, meeting up with Sonja of ArtHead.

Enjoying every corner of these towns .. scenery along the way is spectacular.

I quite like Southern Highlands towns. They are so beautiful and cozy.

Back to Canberra yesterday, and this morning we went to Fsyhwick Fresh Food Market today, nice .. we bought too many things back and our fridge seems couldn't fit. Then, we join Kilm Forming class in the afternoon at Canberra Glassworks. Haa.. here is my work, it is now fused in a kiln overnight, and we should able to pick it up anytime after Wednesday!

Tomorrow, Khoo will have his badminton game here with new friends .. hope everything is good.

And, you too.. :)

It's Spring finally .. the Sun is Out

2011-09-30T20:32:00.002+08:00

After two days of rain. The sun is out today and finally we see bright blue sky. :) Lovely.

Here are the flowers along our way home from the civic Canbera Centre.

We went for Medicare registration today and done it, cards will arrive in 3 weeks. Then we went to Canberra Connect which is conveniently located in the Civic Library, you may read while you wait nice yeah ... we went there to ask for Driver's Licence. From Malaysia, we will need to sit for the knowledge test and the practical test. And the worst part is we will need to show proof of our permanent address, e.g. lease agreement. So for this, we will put on hold for obtaining the licence this round.

So far we have been 3 days in Canberra, and we have signed up for a prepaid braodband, prepaid mobile, TFN registration and Medicare enrolment. Next Tuesday, we will hire a car for a week will then go driving around the suburb to get familiar of the areas and searching for rental for our next trip. And, most probably will visit Goulburn, Sydney and Newcastle. See how things work out.

cheers!

2nd Day in Canberra

2011-09-28T21:42:00.000+08:00

Though is spring but it still seems like winter. But I like it. Quiet neighbourhood around Reid. Nice environment. And, just 5 minutes walk to Canberra Centre.

We cook our dinner today, fried noodle. Went to NAB activate our account. And to Canberra Centre to do some groceries shopping.

Canberra Sky

2011-09-27T20:53:00.000+08:00

First sight of Canberra bright blue sky.! Touching down Canberra 27 Sep 2011, 2.30pm. New passage of life starts!

Really?! Is Tomorrow 26 Sep?

2011-09-25T22:52:00.000+08:00

Time has gone out of control. With handling of ArtBug's new partnership, and the piling up orders, we have put our packing to the last minute. So tomorrow is really 26 Sep and we are departing 5pm... and here is the situation ... luggage and things here and there... packed, weighed and repacked and weighed.. hmm.. seems like we can only manage to take a quarter of our stuff. The rest will have to be arranged next round.

Will upload more when I reach Canberra.. stay tune :)

Last Painting in 26 Nagore Road ?

2011-09-13T22:35:00.002+08:00

Painting Chinese Words Small Art for Bombay Shop, E&O Penang in my studio this week. Will this be the last painting in my studio here at 26 Nagore Road? I'm going to miss this place terribly. This is where I started my new path of life ... ;)

Next week will start packing, all my brushes, colors, tools ... . As you might have known this would be only a month visit. But we are moving part of our personal items and will get a self-storage in Canberra when we come back to Malaysia after 28 Oct.

During this trip we will be staying at... 5, Gooreen Street. ..a one bedroom unit, we rented for AUD$480 per week from Greentrees Apartments. Hope that everything would be good... no.. GREAT!!

View 5 Gooreen St in a larger map

Back to Penang on 28 October, Flight Booked

2011-09-08T20:25:00.001+08:00

At last we decided to make this trip to Canberra a short one for this round, leaving Penang on 26 Sep and back to Penang on 28 October. And, we will stay to complete our business sales arrangement and helping my parents for their move to Penang from Sg. Petani. So it will be after 2012 Chinese New Year that we would fly again to Canberra. Feel disappointed when needed to change our schedule but feel happy that I could help out my parents in their move and also could have a longer time to make better arrangement for our business sales.

Anyway, I was happy that I bought my new toy Gymboss. It is an interval timer which I plan to use for my tabata workout, following the videos from BodyRock.tv; A Tabata workout (also called a Tabata sequence) is an interval training cycle of maximum intensity exercise; for instance it could be a total of a18 minutes only workout which consists of combination of different exercise like burpees, push ups, squats, rope jumping etc. plus 10 seconds of rest in between each exercise.

my new Gymboss Inteval Timer from Gymboss.com

Follow the workout at BodyRock.Tv if you would like to ... .. haa. but please rest the eyes yeah ;)

enjoy ...

You Can Find My Art in Bombay Shop, E&O Hotel Penang

2011-08-28T00:09:00.005+08:00

Bombay Shop, E&O Hotel Penang have recently been expanded with new interior decor. I love the ambience! About 5 years ago, I have started selling my work in Bombay Shop, but it is now only I got a chance to take photo of the shop that I love so much.

If you are staying in E&O Hotel when you are in Penang, stop by Bombay Shop ( the souvenir shop at Ground Floor ) and look for my art, will you ?

Sunday Morning Ride

2011-08-21T11:17:00.001+08:00

We borrowed two bicycles from a friend to cycle around Gurney and Pulau Tikus this morning. Have to really go very early else you will have to packed with the cars even though you are not driving. The weather is good! Cooling breeze .. haa.. but it seems going to rain soon.

me and theng

Birds on the Wire

Beautiful Morning Sky at Gurney Drive

quiet Gurney in the morning

the roof plants at the Lor Mee shop in Pulau Tikus.

I always find this roofing plants fascinating. This was taken in the corner shop at Pulau Tikus selling Lor Mee. It makes the air fresh and cooling. The only bad point, you may have a fallen dried leaf in your mee once in a while ;)

Changes In Plan

2011-08-20T21:19:00.002+08:00

We might have to stay back postponing the big move to Australia till after Chinese New Year next year, that would be after 23 Jan 2012!! As, there's too much happening in our shop, new order keep coming in, and that would really need our attention. Also a few discussion going on with the parties that came in enquiring for taking over ArtBug and BugDesign. So now the tentative plan is, we will only fly to Canberra on 26 September for four weeks, then we will be back to Penang until after CNY next year.

Today I'm totally stressed out, tired and demotivated ... and .. we went for KissA Koyotei (喫茶　红叶亭) for dinner just now, and it was a really a nice relaxing dinner. Just a simple ramen, temaki and matcha latte. Sometime nice food is the cure all remedy.

Oh yeah, our frengi penny is blossoming again.

Family Outing - Flamingo Hotel, Penang

2011-08-11T20:17:00.000+08:00

We have a family outing last weekend, at Flamingo Hotel by the beach at Tanjung Bunga, Penang. Everyone have had a great time, especially the kids. My sister Ean, with her husband Swai and son Samuel will be moving to Australia too this September, they are relocating to Melbourne.

Until today, I haven't convinced myself that we will be living in Canberra, Australia soon! Someone please tell me this is happening!

This is my loving family!
The one standing behind, 2nd from the right who looks funny, is me!

Strawberry Frozen Yoghurt

2011-07-23T17:19:00.002+08:00

my first attempt of Strawberry Frozen Yogurt, following the video here:

Here's the summary of the recipe:

470 plain Nestle yoghurt

200mg Whipped Cream

100mg Custard Sugar

2 tablespoon Malibu rum

I wonder if others face any problem of it froze to icy rock. What I do now is I take it out from the fridge about 20 minutes earlier and rest it before eating and it tastes really awesome.

enjoy :)

p/s: can anyone advice me how to prevent the yoghurt froze to icy rock ?

Old Time

2011-07-22T16:55:00.001+08:00

Today, I spent the whole afternoon tidying up the cabinet in my office, clearing off some junks and also found some old photos. Brought up some memories and feel a bit emotional. Thinking to leaving this home land soon.

1985, parents brought us to Genting Highlands. hmm.. wondering what the photographer was aiming at, why it had been way off to the right. See my twin sisters were squeezed to the edge, and wondering where my mom was. And, if I'm not wrong, we still need to pay for this photo. Anyway, it is a very good memory. Our family seldom got chance to go for holidays, and this is the precious photo.

1993, holidays at Pulau Redang, with Theng's family.

1993, Pulau Redang holidays. How skinny Theng was back then...

1992, one more photo to show how skinny Theng was. haa..
In this photo, Theng was not swimming in a river though, it was flooding that time in his hometown, Kulim, this was taken at his house backyard.

While typing this and thinking about the past, let's enjoy the moment now and also welcoming the future :)

Coffee anyone? .. well here I go.. a cup of coffee with milk and ready to my workout soon.

Cheers!

Hub Cap Turn into Art Canvas

2011-07-21T13:39:00.005+08:00

Back in March 2009, I've participated in Landfill Art.

Over the past three years, Ken Marquis, the founder of the project has persuaded artists from every American state and 52 countries to transform discarded metal and plastic wheel coverings into objects of wonder and whimsy. And my hub cab art is one of those wonders.

And this year, our local newspaper, Star, has also reported on the project last Sunday (10 July), check it out here ... Hub of art.

Now, there is still about 150 pieces short of Marquis goal of an international effort encompassing one-thousand-forty-one (1,041) artists to claim a piece of rusted metal garbage and create fine art. Interested artists are welcome to read more about the project at http://www.landfillart.org/

Here is the interview of Mr. Ken Marquis by Associated Press:

26 September 2011

2011-07-11T14:45:00.000+08:00

A big day we are looking forward to.

You may have known that we have booked our flight to Melbourne on 26 Sep. And we are moving to Canberra for good. As at now, we have 77 days left to our move, but still there are plenty of things to settle, to do list is never ending.

And, I wanted to apologize to friends and fans of Ching-Teoh Art that, I have not been creating lately. Please stay tune, I will be putting up more of my artworks as soon as I settle down in Australia.

To share with you how I'm feeling now. I'm overwhelmed with changes. I'm excited, I'm happy and at the same time I feel uneasy because of the move and that I will be away from my family and all the things and surroundings and life that I've been so comfortable with and that of where I've lived in for the past 40 years. But Theng and I decided to take up the challenge and face the changes. So that we would live our life to the fullest and we won't regret of not making any changes in life.

On the other note, regarding my art publication on McGaw Graphics, we are still working on compiling the images, all high resolution of the actual size. I'm sure it is going to be great! Can't wait.

Hope everyone is doing great !

Underground Art Stepping Out Into the Light

2011-07-07T21:39:00.003+08:00

image from Moniker Art Fair 2010

There are a wealth of excellent visual artists working in and around London, whose work, for whatever reason, has not received the exposure it needs or deserves. This is the sad truth about a lot of art, be it a painting, a musical composition, or a work of choreography. Finding an audience is often far more difficult than the actual act of creation. This is why Moniker, a London-based international art fair, is so vital to the artistic community.

The first Moniker Art Fair occurred in October 2010, and was scheduled to coincide with the widely recognized and considerably more mainstream, Frieze Week, the week long Frieze Art Fair. Unlike the Frieze Art Fair, which is primarily invested in the work of more established artists, Moniker sought to expose gallery owners, critics, and collectors to a group of modern art makers who were successful in their craft, but less well known. The majority of the artists chosen for Moniker, primarily street art makers, had already had successful openings, and had received some form of press. Though all were well established in the modern art community, very few had made been able to make an impact outside of that milieu. Moniker sought to provide an edgier, darker, indeed more underground alternative to Frieze, showcasing street art and its various offshoots to a new audience. Using six curated spaces and six gallery booths, the group of street artists chosen exhibited older works, and created completely new works for the fair itself, in keeping with the immediate nature of street art.

The fair’s name, Moniker, was inspired by hobos of the early 20th century, who tagged the train cars in which they rode. Though street art and graffiti art have been given a fair amount of press over the course of the last five years, galleries and collectors have been slow to make the shift to showing, collecting, and buying the art. Strangely, while the mainstream has seemingly accepted spray painted murals as art, the more insular art world has yet to make a decision. By positioning the four-day festival during Frieze week, the curators of Moniker hoped to change that. Why couldn’t a wealthy collector sit back on one of his or her leather sofa sets and admire a mural painted by German street artist duo, Herakut?

image from Moniker Art Fair 2010

The 2010 Moniker Art Fair was held from October 14-17 and was largely successful. The fair was offered free to the public and featured both gallery work from its roster of artists, and three works created in real-time, just for the fair. The 2nd Moniker Art Fair is slated to take place October 13-16, 2011 at Village Underground, and will also include a film component this year. The roster of artists will be announced shortly. For more information visit www.monikerartfair.com.

Afternoon Tea at the Dining Cafe P.A.T.H.

2011-07-06T16:10:00.006+08:00

Had a wonderful afternoon tea with my niece and sis at the Dining Cafe P.A.T.H.

See how my niece grab to finish the Matcha Cheese Cake all by herself.. .. and all of us love the special Fruits Tea.

P.A.T.H. is a husband and wife team, with the aim of creating holistic health menu with soothing dining atmosphere. Feel free to check them out at their website and Facebook page.

They are located at,
No.32, Lorong 17, Taman Patani Jaya, 08000 Sungai Petani, Malaysia

GPS coordinate :
N 05 37.863' E 100 29.333'

Business Hours :
Mon: 12:00 pm - 11:00 pm
Wed - Sun: 12:00 pm - 11:00 pm

Vertical Road by Akram Khan

2011-06-29T15:55:00.000+08:00

I've always been fascinated by Akram Khan's work! And, I'm really glad that .. here in Penang, we could have a chance to enjoy his latest work, Vertical Road in this July, Georgetown Festival!

Vertical Road
20th July 2011
8pm

Dewan Sri Pinang, Lebuh Light

Bookings: +604-261 6308
TicketCharge: www.ticketcharge.com.my
Prices: RM180, RM120, RM80, RM 40 (students)

Meet Vostro, My New Laptop

2011-06-25T20:40:00.004+08:00

DELL Vostro 3750, 17" screen, phew.. when I received it and pulled it out from the box .. wow it's HUGE!

Vostro will be my companion to Australia and be with me on the path after ... :)

ChingTeoh's Art to be Published by McGaw Graphics

2011-06-16T20:41:00.001+08:00

Beside wanting to tell you about the humid hot weather, and mushroom is growing up in one of my pots, I have a great news to share!!!

I had just signed an agreement with McGaw Graphics! ChingTeoh Arts will be published by McGaw Graphics real soon. Formerly known as Bruce McGaw Graphics, based in Vermont and New York, has been a leader in the publishing world for over 30 years. And now, McGaw Graphics is carrying on that tradition from www.bmcgaw.com to www.mcgawgraphics.com. with sales offices and distributors worldwide.

I'm so excited!! .. hmm why do I feel like I'd drank a whole pot of coffee!

Sun Ray Through our Window

2011-06-14T15:18:00.003+08:00

Every morning, the sun shines through our window and wakes us up.

Another 3 months?! and we will be leaving this special house ... where I started venturing into arts! I must say that I love it here. But I will learn to let it go, like what I did years back to let go my career as a system analyst and I gain who I'm today.

View of Georgetown from 1st Avenue, Penang

2011-06-12T17:17:00.001+08:00

the Trishaw

Went for an early bird movie, Super 8, this morning at TGV, 1st Avenue. While waiting for movie to start, enjoying Georgetown view from this angle. Could see the pre-war houses, some re-built (but not in good condition though) some surviving with its original build up, the terracotta ceramic roof-tiles are fascinating.

Penang Race Against Time (Run for Life) 5 Jun 2011

2011-06-08T14:34:00.005+08:00

We participated in the run last weekend, running on the sandy beach is really tough. Part of the run about 1.6 km is on the sandy beach, that's a challenge really ! The total run was only 6km but I took nearly an hour to finish it. haa..

Beside the run, I actually enjoyed the view very much.

And, here is the result! I'm top 9 in the Women Veteran Category.

Medal & Certificate :)

Hard to Let Go

2011-06-01T23:27:00.001+08:00

Yesterday, I'd sold my car which had been with me for the past 15 years. She had accompanied me to my first day of work. And, had accompanied me in my many many happy days, and also some not so happy days. I love to drive her with soft music on and enjoying the passing by, I enjoyed the quietness when I'm in her.

Till I have moved to Nagore Road, which basically I have all the space I need under one roof, my studio, my home, my office, my gallery ... haa. I do not need to drive at all, so here it is I park my car at the back lane. And, she has had a long long rest back here.

Though it is hard for me to let her go, but because of our move to Australia soon, I will have to do it anyhow. It is a relief that we manage to find a good owner for her. Someone that we are sure would take good care of her.

Letting go something we love is not easy, and making a change is not easy too, but life moves on, and we grow everyday.

Amulet from Mom to place in my car for good safety, now it's kept with me.

Connecting the Dots

2011-05-27T15:27:00.001+08:00

I feel Steve Jobs, co-founder of Apple and Pixar Animation, has precisely expressed my thoughts of how some decision we made back in years ago has somehow someway allowing us to be able to do what we want to do now.

Jobs talks about connecting the dots in our life. “Trust that the dots will somehow connect in the future.”

Sit back and take sometime to view this video .... enjoy!

Tiramisu Anyone?

2011-05-21T14:59:00.001+08:00

It's the 4th attempt, yes 4th.. and it's still not perfect.. but at least this round, it is not soggy.

I'm too lazy to drive to the bakery store at Jelutong, therefore I substitute the savoiardi (sponge fingers) in the recipe with a vanilla butter cake. Well it taste good too, just a little bit messy when I was trying to drizzle the coffee on it. Too much would make it soggy, too little will not taste good.. I love coffee taste to be stronger.

Again, I followed Gordon Ramsay's Easy Tiramisu Recipe , I like it because it is without raw eggs. But since I do not have some ingredient here, I've to make some changes (note in brackets):

250 g mascarpone cheese
1 teaspoon vanilla extract (I go without this.)
3 tablespoons Marsala brandy or Tia Maria (I substitute with Malibu, Caribbean White Rum)
150 ml strong Coffee or espresso, cooled to room temperature (since my previous attempt was very soggy, I reduced it to 100ml, and I used 5 teaspoon of Nescafe Gold instant coffee)
150 ml Single Cream (and I used 200ml whipping cream)
4 tablespoons icing sugar
16 savoiardi biscuits sponge fingers (about 150g Vanilla Butter Cake, and I sliced it to about 1 cm thick)
Frozen bar of 70% Chocolate
cocoa powder

Method copied from here, I listed below for your reference ..

Whisk the mascarpone with the vanilla and Marsala and 50ml coffee, until everything is thoroughly mixed together. Whisk the cream with the icing sugar until smooth, then fold in the mascarpone mix.
Pour the remaining coffee into a bowl (sweeten with more icing sugar if you like). Take one sponge finger at a time and dip it in to the coffee. Set it to one side and continue with the remaining biscuits.
Line 4 serving glasses with 4 sponge fingers, breaking them in half if you need to. Spoon the mascarpone mix in until you reach the top of the glass. Refrigerate for 20 minutes to allow the flavours to infuse.
Remove the Tiramisu from the fridge. Take the frozen chocolate bar and grate a little chocolate over the top of each Tiramisu. Finally, dust with sifted cocoa powder to serve.

Only change the step where Gordon dip the savoiardi in coffee to drizzle coffee on to the butter cake. And, instead of using a martini cup as shown, I used a (7"x6"x 2") square glass container with lid as photo shown below:

Any comments? Though you can't taste it by picture, but you could leave me a comments on how my tiramisu appears to you ? :)

Family Bonding

2011-05-19T14:36:00.001+08:00

Have had a great weekend with my family. Sister is back from KL to celebrate my mom's 67th birthday. And, everyone is here. Cheeky nephew and niece have given us some headache but a fun great evening. Hahaa..

Also taken a few photos in my shop. Which we are going to leave soon in about 3 months from now.

For sure, I'm going to miss my family. I still couldn't think of how my life is going to be after the move. Yes, as I wished I could have all my time solely for myself. But, will I be happy?

Have been 40 years, I live around near my family and had never live away from home. We visit at least once a week sometime even twice. We talked everyday on the phone. We have dinner together ... and many more.

And, now I'm going to be living in another continent far far away from home, in no time it is going to be a reality it is no more a dream. I could have just leading a simple steady life here back home, but I have made a decision to change and to move forward. I wouldn't like to stop here. There will be a few more decades in my life, which I would like to fill it with different colors.

It is hard to be apart, but the family bonding doesn't count on the how many times we visit each other. It is the love that count.

Changes!

2011-05-07T20:05:00.001+08:00

Notice anything?!

Well, if you are new here, probably you don't see any changes ... I just changed my blog color scheme from dark black tone into bright white new tone! A simple mode for everything, as my blog covers my arts, life, family, friends, travels, nibbles, etc. etc. so I need a plain canvas to paint on!

New pages of stories starts here ...

Moving Sales

2011-04-23T21:12:00.064+08:00

Moving is exhausting not only physical but also mental stress. There are family members to take care of. And, lots of packing need to be done.

Another 5 months to count down to the actual move 26 September.

Clearing some of our personal stuffs, some collectibles, books, magazines, etc. and putting them up in eBay for auction, please check out my Garage Sales! I will be listing more items from time to time, stay tune!

And, in my Etsy store, I have also started the Moving Sales offering a 20% off store wide, please enter the code: MOVINGSALES in checkout to be entitled for the discount.

Join Photos to Make a Panorama

2011-04-19T16:54:00.004+08:00

BEFORE

AFTER

Using Photoshop, to join 4 separate photos into a panorama.

Original photos need to be distorted in order to set all the photos on the same line of horizon, then adjust the color level, curve, hue and saturation.

the Biggest Art Gallery

2011-04-11T09:38:00.002+08:00

JR exhibits his photographs in the biggest art gallery on the planet. His work is presented freely in the streets of the world, catching the attention of people who are not museum visitors. His work mixes Art and Action; it talks about commitment, freedom, identity and limit.

video & text from youtube

learn more at http://www.tedprize.org/

Floriade Canberra 2011, here we come ..

2011-04-04T17:35:00.003+08:00

photos from Floriade Australia

Yay! we had just booked our flight to Canberra this morning, will depart on 26 Sep! Well to be precise, we booked PEN - KUL - MEL via AirAsia, signed up for 20kg luggage and pick our seat; total cost for two of us RM1,793. We haven't done MEL - CBR yet, checking now on Virgin Blue for the Happy Hour Sales.

Next, we are looking into furnished accommodation run by Canberra Furnished Appartment. hmm.. I think the largest portion of the expenses will go to the rental. Rental for Budget Studio unit starts from AU$395 per week and this rate is only applicable if we stay more than 12 weeks. Kind of worry on this.

Well, let's look on the bright side, 26 Sep falls in the annual Floriade festival! We will definitely be there in this awesome event! and I would definitely love Spring!!

There's a lot more to plan and do.. we will keep you update with our progress.

Frame & Art Business Opportunity

2011-04-02T18:05:00.003+08:00

Are you interested in arts, interior decoration, handcraft, graphic design? And, you wish to live in Georgetown, Penang .. a tropical island and also one of the World's Heritage Site! No matter if you just fed up with your current job and thinking to be your own boss, or if you are planning your emigration from other part of the world to Malaysia! Don't worry, we will guide you through the business start-up and operations.

For more details please visit our website:

http://www.ArtBug.biz

http://www.BugDesign.biz

You might want to talk to us .. please email .. atcc [at] ArtBug [dot] biz !

Malakof 8km Run, 2011

2011-03-30T14:39:00.001+08:00

Malakof Run was awesome! I have never thought that I could make a long run. From one who never like any sports, ... I've changed 'dramatically' in the last two years. I manage to finish the 8km run, to me completing the run already is an achievement!

On the other note on Art Expo NY, ended last Sunday. And, it was a great event, although, I was not personally attended the expo, Art Expo has helped to market and promote. Though it hasn't lead to any sales, but I do have gained some new contacts.

So.. March is almost gone. :) .. and there come April. and... soon 6 months later.. there will be our move to Oz, tentatively the plan set for 1 October. This be our Big Day.. or should I say My Big Day.! will see..

Oh yes, before I go .. let me share with you my first Tiramisu attempt based on Gordon Ramsay Easy Tiramisu Recipe. Though the presentation doesn't look tasty .. but yest it taste superb!

My Tiramisu based on Gordon Ramsay Recipe

My Art in Art Expo New York!

2011-03-26T10:49:00.000+08:00

Art Expo New York

March 25 - 27

at Pier 94 Hudson River.

Art Expo New York is Finally Here ...

2011-03-24T15:17:00.002+08:00

This weekend 25 March - 27 March at Pier 94 at Hudson River.

Art Expo New York, is world’s largest fine art trade show. Expecting 400 innovative exhibiting artists, galleries and publishers from across the globe, showcasing exciting original artwork, prints, paintings, drawings, sculpture, photography, ceramics, giclee, lithographs, glass works and more, all under one roof.

Trade attendees register online here and get into Artexpo FREE!

Please ask for ChingTeoh at the Studio SOLO Gallery. :) Let me know what you think about my work.

Enjoy!

Hotel Penaga, Heritage Boutique Hotel, Penang

2011-03-12T23:51:00.005+08:00

Hotel Penaga, in the heart of GeorgeTown, Penang. The hotel was converted from a cluster of 15 pre-war terraces and shophouses, facing Hutton Lane, Transfer Road and Clarke Street, into a heritage boutique hotel that maintains the character of the heritage zone while meeting the highest modern expectations.

Khoo and I had our dinner at The Cinnamon, brasseries style restaurant with a relaxed atmosphere. Next round, we would like to try their spa therapy which features ancient remedies and treatments.

To read more about Hotel Penaga, please click here ..

March 2011

2011-03-07T13:52:00.004+08:00

Hi all, March 2011 is really an exiting month for me!

First week, we'd gotten the evidence of Australian PR Visa sticker on our passport! YAY!

Then, we worked on the framing and packing of my artwork to Art Expo New York 2011. Getting these pretties ready to be delivered by JIM. Estimated to arrive at New York on 11 March! The expo will be held for 3 days from 25 March till 27 March at Pier 94 on the Hudson River. If you are around the area on these dates, please email me --> ching [at] ching-teoh [dot] com.

And, on the other note, Khoo and I just signed up for Malakoff Penang Run ! It'll be my first run. Well.. I only signed up for the fun run 8km and not the 26km. haa.. but to me a never runner, it's still tough. But I do like the route, from Youth Park to Gurney Drive then turn back to Gottlieb Road and back to Youth Park. And, the Run is going to be on Sunday 27 March! (and on the same date, my work will be exhibited in Art Expo New York!! )

How's 2011 getting on you friends?

Hope everyone is well, happy and joyful!

cheers!

Moving Soon .. but Not so Soon :)

2011-03-03T14:25:00.002+08:00

As mentioned here, that we have gotten our Australian PR visa on the last day of 2010, 31 Dec. And, on Monday, we drove to KL for the sticker on our passport, a sticker that means a lot. :)

Planning our move this year, no fixed date yet, but roughly around September or so. Being state sponsored, our first stop would be Canberra, ACT.

More details to be updated soon. :)

By the way, my paintings has been now on the way to Art Expo New York 2011. If you are around in New York on 25 - 27 March, please pay a visit to the expo. My painting will be at the Solo Studio. Too bad, for this year, I couldn't make it personally to the expo, but I could be contacted via email : ching [at] ching-teoh [dot] com if you want to ask for more information.

Cheers Everyone! to Dream the Dream

India Beyond Taj Mahal

2011-02-13T15:37:00.001+08:00

The breathtaking Taj Mahal, once enter captivated by her elegant beauty. Government taking every effort to preserve this heritage site, keeping it away from pollution and any possible damage.

But as we move beyond this pure palace of love the majestic Taj Mahal, reality of life flows into our sight. High population with many still live in extreme poverty.

In many cities of India, women are advised not to go out alone, even in the city like Delhi, they have special sections in the Metro for women only. Very considerate seeing the crowded train with men. Everyday, there are about 3 - 5 cases of rapes, women have to take extra cautions to be outside.

Think with the fast-developing economy in India, there'll be more plans and cares provided for the people.

Neemrana Fort Palace, India

2011-02-12T20:07:00.004+08:00

We'd enjoyed our stay at Neemrana Fort Palace, it is 700 years old, built on the hill overlooking the Neerana village, with the breathtaking sunset view. As we touched down Delhi airport, we left directly to Jaipur, on the way we stopped over at Neemrana Fort for one night. It really worth the night.

As we reached the fort, we are offered a free afternoon tea at the garden terrace till sunset.

The interior is tastefully decorated.

India .. Blue

2011-02-11T22:48:00.004+08:00

We are back to Penang, after the long Chinese New Year holidays. Had went back to parents house and been away for 6 days to India during the holidays.

India is uniquely awesome! Especially love their design and vibrant colors, especially the Indian blue ...

do you love this blue?

stay tune, there will be more pictures coming the way ..

Festive Seasons

2011-01-19T16:10:00.003+08:00

With Christmas and 2011 New Year celebration just passed. Tomorrow comes Thaipusam and guess what?! Chinese New Year is approaching in another two weeks time. We will be off for one whole week during the Chinese New Year holidays. This is the fun part of living in Malaysia, we celebrate almost every big days of every race.

We have manage to obtain the Indian visa for our visit to India for this coming CNY holidays. And, at last we signed up with Trinetra Tour for Delhi - Jaipur - Agra golden triangle tour, after reading the reviews in TripAdvisor. Wish it will be good, the first time for us to go with a tour. :)

And, here is the new piece that I had just completed, the Rising Peacock. Should be getting all the pieces ready for shipping to Art Expo New York soon after the long holidays.

On the other note, regarding our Big Move to Australia. 3 weeks from the visa grant on 31 Dec 2010, Khoo and I still feeling so unreal. Though we had made the hardest decision, putting up our business for sale. And, sharing our plans with our family members. Preparing ourselves to saying goodbye ... but for sure I will be on of the frequent flyers of AirAsia.

Since we are sponsored by ACT, we will be staying in Canberra for the start. ACT has been doing a great job to welcome us, keep in touch with us and sharing every information possible we need for the move. We are amazed with one of the pages that they sent us, ‘ see the real thing before you see the real thing’ http://www.actuality.net.au/..

And, just in case you plan to visit us soon in Canberra.. here you go, check this out: http://www.visitcanberra.com.au/

Happy Thaipusam for those who are celebrating and Happy Holidays to everyone!

What I've been doing in the first week of 2011?

2011-01-08T22:48:00.003+08:00

First week of 2011 had just passed!

Khoo had been discharged from the hospital on the 31st Dec 2010 after his appendix operation :) just in time for the new year count down ! and we celebrated the Australian PR visa grant at home :) with a simple home cooked dinner. haha.. plain porridge, miso steamed okra and steamed minced pork (with tong chai) .. soft food only as ordered by doctor.

And, for the week, busy in the shop and been working on a new piece. Another two months to Art Expo New York 2011. Time really flies.

Today, had a family dinner at TGI Friday, Queensbay Mall, Penang. A fun dinning place :)

See the wordings behind us in the photo? "NO GUTS NO GLORY!" .. ha..

Soon, there will be a big move to Australia and it's a big change for us ... can't wait !

Happy New Year!! We've got it!!

2010-12-31T09:13:00.010+08:00

After months of waiting... since May 2009 .. we've finally got it!! YAHOO!!

On the last day of 2010... we got our Visa Grant!! Yes!! the best new year gift ever!

I can't believe with my eyes seeing the email came in just a minute ago.. is it real.. .is it a dream!? no not a dream it is real!! my heart can't stop pounding.. my tears can't stop flowing with happiness and joy!

Have started a new path ... and it's the time. Yes!

HAPPY NEW YEAR everyone!

** p/s now flying to hospital.. Khoo was admitted for appendix operation. This would really cheer him up for the new year!!

Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!!

2010-12-28T09:13:00.000+08:00

Hi All :) best wishes from me, my mom, sisters, nephew and niece.

the Last 2 Weeks of 2010

2010-12-18T14:34:00.000+08:00

Completed another peacock painting on 20"x20" , the Rising Peacock. This piece is with orange, red with purple, blue and green. A very vibrant piece! It is very much of my feeling now.. I feel inspired, energetic and looking forward to 2011 !!

2011, would going to be an exciting year. We'll start the year with an exotic trip to India, ... Delhi, Jaipur and Agra during Chinese New Year break (from 4 Feb ~ 9 Feb).

oh yeah.. before that, we may going to reveal the result of a project which we started off from year 2009. .. and in 2010 ... hurdle by hurdle we had passed ... and it is about time... please wait for the last few .. err.. months? weeks? . days? let's wish it be a Christmas present.

By the way, on Christmas weekend, we will be flying down to have a family gathering at Ean's, my sister's place.

Hope everyone is well, and Merry Christmas !! May you have all the joys of the season.

Cheers!

How's Your Weekend?

2010-12-12T20:54:00.001+08:00

I worked in my studio and also been quite busy in my shop yesterday. Though today seems not quite a progressive day for me but I look forward to a whole new week tomorrow, It's Monday again! It will be a great week won't it ?! I'm pretty sure :) ...

Hope everyone feels the same too !! Cheers!

It's my 39th Birthday!

2010-12-04T14:23:00.003+08:00

A happy happy birthday to me!

But, .. well .. Khoo is sick today, and me too a couple of days ago .. so no special dinner :) but received plenty of greetings from friends and love ones, thank you so much my dear!

And, here are the birthday songs from my niece and nephew:

this one is from my niece, Ern.. first attempt

and here is the second attempt, after adding "Da Yi" in the song :)

and this one is from my chicky nephew, Sam .. with his sexy voice :)

aren't they cute?

Above picture was taken just now, when I walked to New World Park, to get my lunch. Spotted 5 rented bikes parked by the road side. Yay! good to go, let's cycle everyone .. for the green.

My Family

2010-11-27T16:56:00.003+08:00

Last weekend was my father's 65th birthday, we had dinner at Seapalace Restaurant at Taman Pekaka.

My sisters, niece, nephew and my parents !! aren't my niece and nephew very adorable?! :)

my hubby, brother-in-laws and my parents

wishing everyone .. Good Health and Happiness forever.

Flair

2010-11-16T15:13:00.001+08:00

"Flair", 20"x45" texture acrylic on canvas; another piece of peacock painting. Here is a close up view of the painting ...

by the way, I forgot to update you from my last post regarding my run at Air Itam Dam, pity to say that, I can't even finish running one round hahah... too bad..

Recently, have a simple lunch in KFC at Island Plaza, we quite enjoy the window view with greenery and bright natural lights :) Though it is just a small planter box with a tree and some small flower plant, but it makes the view so refreshing.

can see the tree and plants outside the window?

ok. I got to go, have to update my website as well.

have a nice day!

Another Large Peacock Painting in Process

2010-11-07T13:16:00.002+08:00

Is a long weekend here celebrating Deepavali. Happy Deepavali to all my friends.

I manage to start working on another piece of large peacock painting 20" (w) x 45" (h). I have had this idea in my mind for a long long time .. now it's time for me to make it real on canvas!

Later, we plan to jog at Air Itam Dam, hope I could finish a round, ha .. to me it is quite a challenge.

"Make Up Room" Door Sign for Mango Tree Place

2010-11-06T21:35:00.003+08:00

Door sign, hand-painted and specially design for Mango Tree Place at Jalan Puah Hin Leong, Penang. Mango Tree Place is a rustic boutique bed and breakfast suites located along the buffer zone of the UNESCO living heritage enclave. More about Mango Tree Place at their website : http://www.mangotreeplace.com/ or be a fan of their Facebook page.

I Start Running

2010-10-29T17:15:00.000+08:00

Yesterday, I start running :)

Bought myself a Brooks - Launch ! Well, for the first run yesterday in Botanical Garden, I just manage to complete 3km within 25 minutes.. consider good?

An Affair of Love

2010-10-21T12:39:00.002+08:00

After long overdue, at last, I'd completed this peacock painting, "An Affair of Love" it is 48" x 30"., texture acrylic on canvas. Here is a close-up view ...

How's everyone been doing?

For me, I had just visited my sister in KL last weekend. Especially happy to meet my little nephew. Can't believe how fast kids grow. We went to see him in his sports day and there was a singing presentation on stage too. Happy to see him grown to a happy and good behaved boy.

Time flies, and it is the last quarter of the year!! Again, work starts to get busier in the our frame shop.

.. remember to Enjoy Life!

Hello

2010-10-08T16:01:00.000+08:00

Bright sunny day and freaking hot but I'm working on a new peacock painting 48" x 30" today.

I will upload more updates soon. Cheers!

Strange Plant

2010-10-05T15:48:00.005+08:00

Can anyone please tell me what is the name of this plant?

My mom has this plant at home and since last week, it started to bloom for the first time. With a pink fan looking center piece and small purple flowers around it.

Frangipani Blossom Again

2010-10-04T13:22:00.000+08:00

Always happy to see my frangipani (plumeria) blossom, feeling good!

I have this potted plants since 6 years ago, when we first moved in to 26 Nagore Road. We had many times pruned the over grown brunches and gave it to neighbors and friends that now have been growing well in their gardens.

Art Expo New York 2011 at Pier 94

2010-10-03T18:08:00.001+08:00

Delighted to see my peacock painting "The Landscape with Peacock" on the website of Art Expo New York.

Mark your date for the next Art Expo New York which will be held at Pier 94 on The Hudson Road from March 25 to March 27, 2011.

a Simple Day

2010-09-17T14:46:00.000+08:00

a simple and quiet day at Nagore Road.

Yesterday was Malaysia Day, it was announced 'suddenly' as a public holidays started this year. Many companies and businesses are closed for the day and today Friday, many applied for their annual leaves so that they could enjoy a long weekend till Sunday perhaps.

Me? well ... tidy up my office documents and bills. Headache. Tasks that I hate most.

On other note, I'm pretty excited to see my name up on ArtExpo New York 2011, exhibitor list.

And, again there are some new request of my Peacock painting in my Etsy shop. Too bad, all paintings in my peacock series had been sold. Think I should really do some time management.

Lina Jang Fine Art Photography

2010-09-13T17:02:00.000+08:00

screen shot from Lina Jang Fine Art Photography

I had been captivated by the excellent beauty of the extraordinary Belly Dance Photography by Lina Jang. The slides of photographs in her website had taken my breath away, I couldn't put my eyes away from the screen for awhile. I love every captures made and every colors and lines chosen.

Lina is Indonesian born photographer now running her own successful wedding photography studio in Manhattan, New York City (www.jangphotographers.com). Besides, commercial works she has been expanding her fine art photography. To read more about Lina, please visit http://www.bellydancephotography.com/ or you may get a copy of her book at http://www.jangbooks.com/.

Where am I up to?

2010-09-09T14:38:00.001+08:00

Was preparing BugDesing and ArtBug for the IWA Windows on Penang Expo. Everything turn out nice and smooth; we had met many new friends and spoke to new comers to Penang, introducing what we do in ArtBug and BugDesign.

Getting busier with work. A few art coordination project is on going. Help to design wall decor art for the client new home in a Classic English style. Designing some digital wall art print, photo collaging, image restoration and others.

And, I had registered myself for ArtExpo New York 2011, Solo Studio! I can't believe I made the decision so fast. Well, in fact there isn't anything that I need to wait for. Just do it.

Hope everyone is well and having a great Thursday!

Happy September !!

2010-09-01T14:17:00.002+08:00

September starts with a beautiful Gift today.

The sale of these 4 abstract peacocks paintings which I completed last week is confirmed today via my Etsy Store. All four artworks are heading to their new home in Chicago.

Peaceful

2010-08-29T20:21:00.001+08:00

This photo was taken during our trip to Innsbruck, Austria in 2007.

The air was so cool, clean and fresh we could take the deepest breathe we want. We close our eyes and we could feel the air.

I'm longing for a quiet, serene and relaxed life. I would want to be able to choose the life I want.

New Life ...

2010-08-27T21:26:00.002+08:00

A gift from a friend who has gone back to Australia. It is now starting a new life in a new environment, my studio.

Abstract Peacock Paintings

2010-08-21T16:53:00.000+08:00

Continued from the work in progress which I shared last week ... here are the completed work. Abstract peacock paintings with bold acrylic texture on canvas.

Last week had been a busy week for me with parents visiting and I had been taking days off to be with them. Work kind of piling up. But, I manage to complete the painting and listed on my Etsy shop today.

Please let me know what you think of this series?

True Colors

Landscape with Peacock

Plumage

Majestic

Work in Progress

2010-08-10T13:12:00.001+08:00

Start working on a few larger pieces today 16"x16". A series of Peacock. There are plenty of images and styles ideas in my mind now, can't wait to make it all come real :)

working on the texture paste ... let it dry.

Bits and Bytes in the Courtyard of My Studio

2010-08-08T08:36:00.000+08:00

The Journey of a Thousand Miles Starts with a Single Step

2010-08-06T09:35:00.002+08:00

my new favorite in Flickr

Mi primer caracol, originally uploaded by Jabi Artaraz.

Next!... to Portland, USA :)

2010-08-01T14:06:00.001+08:00

It's a beautiful day! Received an email from Etsy, sold a painting today!

Thank you!

my Weekend

2010-07-31T13:41:00.000+08:00

Woke up 7am today, went for breakfast, roti bakar, half boil egg and nasi lemak ! then back to .. trimming, fertilizing and watering the plants .. I do enjoy gardening! Though it is just a small plot for me to plant but the greenery really cheer up my shop-house front :)

Another Two Paintings Heading to Provincetown, Massachusetts

2010-07-28T15:15:00.007+08:00

My two Paintings Nature I and Nature III are now heading to Provincetown, Massachusetts.

From Google Map, found photo of Provincetown, a really beautiful town. According to Toddleberry, it was a Portuguese fishing and whaling village, and now a tourist spot.

photo by ToodleBerry

photo by dadofliz

photo by cosmac

I wish I could be visiting this place soon.

Heading to San Francisco !!

2010-07-22T14:03:00.003+08:00

.. it is not me.. but my painting :) Yay!!

"Dream" is heading her way to her new home in San Francisco.

All packed and ready to be picked up by FedEx guy :)

Guest Post

2010-07-17T09:38:00.001+08:00

I am so happy to be invited to do a guest post in OneTravel blog. It is a blog about travel and holidays run by George of OneTravel.com

To read more, please jump to http://onetravel.wordpress.com/2010/07/16/what-to-do-in-penang/

a Long Absence

2010-07-11T11:53:00.000+08:00

It has been a long absence from my blog. Guess where I'm, well .. I'm still at where I used to be Going nowhere :) Just that, Khoo had been admitted for his knee surgery (arthroscopy) and we rested home for about two weeks. He is doing great! Just cannot do sport or run for the next 3 months :) haha... a good reason for him to stay lazy.

Well, during this time, I still work on BugDesign and tried to start a new Etsy shop. We manage to secure a sale during this period and get really excited about it! I will pack the print in my studio today and it is heading to Hawaii soon.

till next, hope everyone had a great weekend!

Week in Progress for BugDesign

2010-06-24T17:47:00.006+08:00

This week was a busy week in launching new service in my other company, BugDesign Canvas Art which I run together with my husband, Khoo.

Beside normal service of Your Photo on Canvas, we decided to provide additional photo editing services, i.e. damaged photo restoration, colorized black and white photo, converting your photo to pop art .. and there will be more services coming.

Damaged Photo Restoration

Colorized Black and White Photo

Turning Your Photo to Pop Art on Canvas

I've also listed these services in our BugDesign Services page. Please tell me what you think of our services? Any ideas to share with me? You may also follow us on Facebook and Twitter for the new events of BugDesign.

Days just passed by fast and quietly, without you knowing it. It is now in the middle of the year, on the other part of the globe, people are celebrating summer, enjoying the sunshine outdoor, seasons changes and time pass by! Here, we have almost the same and nothing so special days .. the day could be pretty slow sometime but then without you realizing it, it just passed by. :)

Painting in Progress - June 16

2010-06-16T14:19:00.002+08:00

this artwork is now available in my Etsy Store:
http://www.etsy.com/listing/49545440/jun-16-original-abstract-textured

textured painting process by ChingTeoh on YouTube

HUGO Creates: Pop Art & The City

2010-06-15T13:13:00.001+08:00

if you love this :) please vote for me here

Speed Drawing of James Black

2010-06-12T15:43:00.003+08:00

I am so happy to be contacted by James Black Music to do a speed drawing of James Black. James Black had been a well known songwriter who writes for film/TV soundtracks namely One Tree Hill, Daybreakers, Kill Bill 2, Titanic , New York I Love You and many more. Check out more of James's new music and soundtracks at YouTube and his Twitters updates.

Here is the video of my speed drawing of James Black.

A Productive Day!

2010-06-11T13:58:00.002+08:00

A productive day, commissioned wall plaque with quotes "Plenty and Grace, Be unto this Place" is almost done. Will wrapped it over a stretcher later. Finger crossed, hope it will look great and my customer would love it.

Here is how the painting after varnished and stretched...

what do you think ?

Hi .. I'm Back!

2010-06-10T14:32:00.001+08:00

haha... actually back from no where.. .. just that I was only recovered from a bad food poisoning. It took me more than a week, and with antibiotic! missed my regular work-out and feel weak. terrible...

but, hey.. today I feel good. and in my walkway garden, there is a small yellow flower greeting me to start my day with new start!

Today, I am working on a commission piece, a decorative wall plaque with quotes "Plenty and Grace, Be unto this Place" ... is still in progress ..

hope everyone is doing great!

Dance Dance Party Party

2010-05-26T17:28:00.002+08:00

Footloose, originally uploaded by dancedance.partyparty.

Dance Dance Party Party (DDPP) started as a way to work out and have fun without the conformity of a gym – how often have you heard your favorite song while you’re on the treadmill and wanted to hop off to do a real running man?

Begun in 2006, DDPP™ is the creation of New York City residents Glennis McMurray and Marcy Girt. Now it is in many cities across the US and Canada.

I think I would love to join this if it is in Penang!

Studio Time

2010-05-25T15:25:00.001+08:00

background music

Art

2010-05-25T08:49:00.001+08:00

Music video by Andrea Dorfman

Busy Week

2010-05-20T17:44:00.000+08:00

Just completed a textured painting on recycled mat board for my Etsy shop. A small pink flower on gold, yellow and green textured background. Any comments? :)

On the other hand, the commissioned artwork of Hua Kai Fu Gui (花开富贵) is complete with the background print and framing. As per my client request, she would like to have tulips and butterfly big and small ... as a gift to her mom. I had painted the 4 Chinese characters on separate canvas, and it is stretched and installed on the background artwork.

It is May, and as usual getting busier in ArtBug and BugDesign. And, there are request of my work in larger size like 4 x 3 feet or even bigger. hmm.. think it is time for me to get the space ready and start putting my inspirations on canvas!

Bangkok May 2010, Urban Warfare

2010-05-17T12:41:00.001+08:00

We spent a few days in Bangkok for work, and it was a total different experience. We stayed at DS67 Suites near Phra Kanong BTS Station, it is away from the 'war' zone. BTS and MRT is closed and major road into the city is also closed, traffic into chaos.

Taxi drivers refused to operate by meter, and asking for higher fares. First time to move around BKK in taxi. Viewing Bangkok from a different perspective ...

Based on the latest news from Wall Street Journal, the death toll in Bangkok's latest round of violence reached 30 yesterday. Sigh ...

Wishing everyone able to be home safely with the family ...

Purple Flower

2010-05-13T13:58:00.001+08:00

Greeted by a purple flower this morning at my shop five footway (walkway). A happy day to start with!

A new plant that I planted a few weeks ago, now blooms with purple flower, which I'm not sure the name :) ..

Do you know?

p/s: by the way, we are heading to Bangkok later for 4 days ... pray for a safe trip.

This is May ... "花开富贵"

2010-05-11T15:19:00.000+08:00

I'm now working on a commission painting of 4 Chinese Characters "花开富贵" (hua kai fu gui) which means flower blossom brings wealth and happiness. These 4 characters will combined with a background design of tulips and butterflies which was the idea of my client. She would like to make this for her mother. I will update the complete work once it is ready.

On the other side of work, in ArtBug we are so excited to receive the order of wood carving panel from The Naughton Gallery at Queen's University in Belfast, UK at Northern Ireland. The wood carving panel will be displayed in the Malaysian Room of their newly built library. The artwork will have to arrive by end of May.

And, my mom's birthday is also in May, my sister from KL will be visiting ... now discussing of what to do and where to eat :)

May is a beautiful month ... though we do not have spring here. But I do feel "花开富贵".

image source

1978

2010-05-07T11:09:00.003+08:00

My first schooling bag, 1978, first day to school with this bag. I'm happy that my mom keeps it all these years. What a memory .. I remember my first day at school, I cried from the first session to middle of the day non stop. Haha..

There are two stickers at the back of my bag, which my father bought it for me after school, he was a teacher by then, I miss those days ...

I look inside my bag, trying to figure out what is these numbers about ... 10 = 4, 200 = 1, 5000 = 2 ... I have really no idea.. ha.. can you tell?

Show Me Your Love

2010-05-04T14:20:00.005+08:00

Please tell me if you like my art "Pencere" on HUGO Man visual by voting here (http://www.hugocreate.com/en/gallery-round-14-view-50370)

Pencere, Textured Acrylic on Canvas 8"x8" (SOLD)

HUGO Create is a global design contest from HUGO fragrances by HUGO BOSS. The con- test is open to people of all skill levels.

Every 2 months, there will be a new Round of contest and each has its theme and concept. Please vote for me in Round 14, which the theme is "Black, White and Red", visual must also feature the HUGO Man bottle and logo. Round 14 is closed and the result will be announced June, 1. Now it is Round 15, please check out how it works here. So fire up your creative minds and draw, scan, create a digital collage, vectorize...

Enjoy!

Fishing Village and Charcoal Factory at Kuala Sepetang

2010-05-02T18:34:00.002+08:00

Kuala Sepetang fishing village (十八丁)

fishing wholesaler

interest house design

vibrant coffee shop in the village

mangrove forest along the way into the village...

the beauty of mangrove wood texture

two lady having a relaxing afternoon chat in the factory ...

the charcoal kiln

an artful wall spotted in the charcoal factory

We took Saturday off for Mayday (Labor Day), so we have a long weekend. And, as usual we have a driving trip .. today we chose to drive to Kuala Sepetang. It is just off Taiping highway exit ... just a short drive, we arrived at this beautiful fishing village. Near by, there is also a charcoal factory.

Sometime a day trip away .. is a good way to relax!

Hope everyone has a happy Mayday!

Happy Day!

2010-04-29T22:02:00.002+08:00

Two paintings that are ready for packing and to be delivered to their new home tomorrow. This time, is to a customer in Penang. They are a wonderful couple who found me from my website. Meet them twice and we have had a great time chatting about collecting art and displaying art at home. And, we also talked about different media of arts, water color, oil and mixed media.

I'm so happy that my art found their new wonderful home.

This is a great encouragement and support for me to move further.
Thank you so much!

I Hope You Love GREEN as I Do ...

2010-04-28T15:13:00.003+08:00

This is ArtBug Frame shop, and it is also my studio, office and home. Khoo and I started running this place since 5 years ago. I love gardening .. so I have turned the cement screed in front of our shop corridor into a small planter box. They grow quite well... I have a banana tree on the left (which in this photo was hiden behind one of the motobikes) and huge elephant ears .. and on the right I have a Plumeria tree (or some call frangipani) ... and along the pavement I have plenty of ground cover plants such as lantana and other small tropical plants ...

In the photo below you could see that I had just prune the Plumeria Tree. It had been growing so well with lovely pink flowers blooming ... but sad to say that, there are many 'flower lovers' who had been picking the flower by force and tearing the tree brunches and hurting the tree, I have to prune that from time to time and let it re-grow and when it starts to blooming again, there comes the flower thief. Same happen to the banana tree which was just having its first flower bud had been violently bent and spoiled (photo can be seen in my Facebook) ... even on the ground cover plants .. people had been treating them as a rubbish dumping bin too .. almost every morning, I have to pick up tissue papers, ice cream sticks, drinks plastic bags, cans, cigarettes, flyers and many more .. and help to throw it to the place it should be ..the rubbish bin. Oh yes before I forgot, even the potted plants were stolen!

Just getting more and more worry on the community's values, morals and ethics. Aren't a cleaner, greener and fresher environment healthier to live in? By doing a little bit everyone, sure we will have a cleaner surrounding to live in. Even though you are not offering anything, but at least please do offer your consideration to others. Before you take out your hand to throw any unwanted items, or to pick or pluck or hit or bent anything please consider other who share the living environment with you. Please be considerate.

Sorry about my grumbling again. I hope your mood is not ruined by me ... :) and I hope that you love GREEN as I do... :)

Here are some closer view of my small planter box ... behind on the corridor by the window parked our purple scooter which takes us to dinner and wandering around Georgetown.

updated 28 April:

this morning, manage to take a photo of a yellow Lantana flower before it is picked by someone

see... why plastic bag should be banned ...

There is Always Tomorrow

2010-04-24T15:27:00.003+08:00

That's why there's always tomorrow, to start over again

Things will never be the same, the only sure thing's CHANGE

(chorus from Gloria Estafan's Always Tomorrow)

Title: There is Always Tomorrow

currently available in my Etsy shop

It could be less pressured when we think that there's always a second chance for us to start over but it doesn't mean that we could take it for granted. Today is still the best present of all! Live 'today' to the fullest.

I'm 39 by December, and will very soon be 40. haha.. 30 was just felt like yesterday. Time really doesn't wait for anyone. Did I live my life to the fullest? Yes, I am. After obtaining a Masters' Degree, I started my working life as a computer programmer then as a system analyst but decided to make a big jump into a different industry with Khoo, we started a frame and art shop! Our friends and family, no one agree on what we did, haha.. giving up a high salary career. Maybe they have to understand that success just couldn't be measured quantitatively. agree? ..

I'm glad that there's always tomorrow for our new ventures! There will be more of new passage that we would like to fill our life with.

Thanks for reading, cheers!

Where to Eat ?

2010-04-22T17:11:00.002+08:00

As many of you may know, Khoo and I stay upstairs of our gallery/studio, we have only a microwave for some basic cooking and a slow cooker for soup. So, we eat out most of the day .. hmmm. well is everyday. But, I usually like to make some simple salad or soup for after dinner.

In the past few days, I've been searching for the recipe of grape salad, and found this recipe. I made it for dessert yesterday. I couldn't find pecan in the supermarket here, so I replaced it with cocktail nuts. Yes! it tastes yummy but I think it is fattening :) Grapes, cream cheese, sour cream, brown sugar and cocktail nuts.

Some friends are curious about where do we eat everyday ... hmmm, we have simple dinner basically. In Penang, there are plenty of places, so call food court or hawker centers, which is a place of filled with food stalls. Food is usually cheap, cost about RM4 to RM15. So a family of two like us husband and wife no kids, sometime is cheaper to eat out than cook a meal at home. ... but nutrition wise of course home cooked food is better.

Let me share with you one of our usual place, Red Garden Food Paradise and Night Market at Penang Road opposite Cititel Hotel. I brought my Australian friends there, and they love the place. There are a lot of choices of local food, at night it is packed with locals and tourists especially weekends.

I like the Udon Chicken Terriyaki of East meets West

and Garlic Fried Chicken/ Fish set of Alila Thai

So.. . where to have dinner tonight? Let me throw a dice to select a place .. hahah..

How about you? what do you do for your dinner.. ?