Opening Reception: Friday, June 13th, 2008 7pm-?

Show Dates: June 13th - August 5th, 2008

It's been a while since we've seen work from some of our friends over at Art Dorks Collective.  Maybe you remember the Lions, Tigers, and Bears show we had back in July of 2006? Need a refresher? Perhaps you remember Daniel's disturbing ladies?

So who are the Art Dorks?  Brendan Danielsson originally started it as a web community which grew into the young artist collective it is today.  If they fit into a genre, it would be something between Pop Surrealism, Low Brow, and a 1980's hightop sneaker.  Being young artists, they've been collectively bombarded with media since the day they were born and it's bound to influence their work.

Let's talk a little about the contributing artists for this show. The Ridley sisters, Jason Murphy and Brendan Danielsson all attended the Ringling School of Art and Design in Sarasota, Florida.  Like one big giant artist family, Brendan and Meagan have been married for 2 years, and Jason and Katie will wed later this year making them all 'kin'. They all currently live in Atlanta and work (or have worked) for CNN.  Katie is a part time designer for CNN and a freelance illustrator while Meagan is a designer for CNN Headline News. Brendan works as a compositor for CNN. Jason is a designer for Mind's Eye, but at one time worked for CNN. But don't judge them with media bias, or confuse them with the "fair and balanced" fox news people. It's just that they need to pay the bills somehow.

An interview with Brendan that can shed some light (or shadows) on his approach and influences can be viewed here. here.

Here are some preview pics of pieces in the show:

After much anticipation, we are thrilled to finally announce the 2008 Left Field Project “Right to Left” tour. We’ve been working on this show for over a year now and have spent many sleepless nights putting together the perfect roster:

Andy Howell 
Brian Flynn
Andy Mueller 
Morning Breath 
Ethan Anderson
Dustin Koop
Andrew Pommier
Duane Fernandez 

Along with the show, Left Field Project will be designing a zine and screen printed posters. If you want one, you best make your way to the Grand Opening at each venue.

The tour will kick off in North Carolina, May 9th at Wootini [Carrboro, near Chapel Hill]. The tour will then make its way 1122 miles over to Tulsa – Oklahoma. Following the Tulsa show, we will then jump on the I-40 and make the 1738 mile trip to San Francisco. More details:

North Carolina: [May 2008]
Wootini
200 North
Carrboro, NC 27510
http://wootini.com
*Opening show will be Friday May 9th

Oklahoma: [June 2008]
Artifacts
819 E. 3rd Street
Tulsa, OK 74114

California: [July 2008]

Super7
1628 Post Street
San Francisco, CA 94115
super7store.com

Casey Robertson is a favorite local artist whose work has shown around the Triangle in many locations. From giant murals to gallery pieces, Casey's style has a flavor all its own. His imaginative and provocative imagery is sometimes tongue-in-cheek, often symbolic, and always unique. In his latest collection, "Pick Your Friends," Casey flies his viewer to the land of "Killer, Bro!," with a novel take on well-known icons in contemporary life interacting with lead characters from his own, curious fantasy world.

The opening will be this Friday at 7pm.  We'll have some munchies, drinks, etc.  Look forward to seeing everyone this Spring.

Wootini is proud to present a collection of new work by Dustin Hostetler, aka UPSO starting March 14th and showing through April 8th.

UPSO's work is self-reflective, and pauses often to explore deep personal sentiment and emotion.  In his latest collection, entitled "I Will Miss You When I'm Gone," he takes a moment to reflect upon and pay homage to the aspects of his life that he appreciates most.  From people to possessions, his imagery is presented boldly and poignantly.  It should serve to remind us that life is short indeed, but perhaps we could all benefit from drawing greater appreciation from the things in our lives that we tend to take for
granted.

Join us for the opening on March 14th at 7 p.m.  There will be food and refreshments and as usual, Family will be providing the stellar sounds.

*UPDATE*: Read more about the show in the INDY article here.

Some sample images from the show:

We also have something a little different: The Wall of the "Sick and the Dead".

In 2006, fledgling indie film company Magic Twanger Productions produced a seven minute black and white zombie short called “Family”. It was picked up by Last Call Films who played the movie at their film festival. Soon after they requested a full-length undead feature film be produced.

On a shoe string budget and the help of many locals, the full length film “The Sick and the Dead” has been produced with a TBD release date. What you see here is a sampling of pieces used to inspire and create this ambitious locally produced project.

To learn more check out the website - Sick and the Dead

Update! Movie Debuts at "The Carolina Theater" in Durham on May 28th

a collection of work by daniel danger.

january's show features a collection of work by daniel danger. an artist with a stunning visual sense, daniel works with many mediums. most known for his gigposters, daniel works with other mediums - you never know what we'll have as part of this show.

if you like the unsettling surreal. if you like ambulances lost in the middle of snowy woods, girls turning into herons, beds floating into the sky, ghosts with meanings on a thousand different levels, and lots and lots of trees that are just too tall and dont seem to end. then you will enjoy this show. find out more about daniel's work - visit daniel danger's website.

opening is at 7pm, we are closed during the day until the opening time.

December at Wootini is going to be bright, starry and .. well, really special. We'll be bringing together some of our local artist members for a super special family holiday show!  David Rose, Casey Porn, Paul Friedrich, Bloo Empire, and Casey Robertson will all be showing new work together collectively.  We may also have some holiday elf special guests, and you never know who else will show up?! It'll be more fun than holiday karaoke around the ole Yule log! 

Special for this event, we'll be unveiling a new project consisting of "Mysterious" blind-boxed 6x6" stretched canvas prints created by each of the artists.  That means, much like the mini-figures we have – each is a mystery, until you purchase and open it.  Buy more than one, trade with friends, give them as presents!

As usual, it's also a good time to say "Hi" to your "Family" who will be here creating some musical harmony.  We'll have some 'snacks' and ‘drinks’ for Santa and Santa-wanna-be's.  

Opening is at 7pm, we are closed during the day until the opening time.

Join the Nasher Museum's Young Friends at Wootini in Carrboro, the Triangle's only exclusive designer vinyl and art gallery.  /Onion Head Moster/ artist and /HellCar/ creator Paul Friedrich will be discussing his influences and experience as a local artist.  Mingle with peers, view the new exhibition of Friedrich's work, and shop for limited-edition art, figures, and gifts.  Reception with cash bar.

We also will be having a special audio presentation. As Subscape Annex, Steve Burnett processes image files of Paul Friedrich's pictures as though the images were audio and performs live improvisational looping music using the images as the source of the sound.

For an example of the audible vision concept, see http://www.subscapeannex.com/sounds_sparkcon.html

The Nasher Museum of Art at Duke University fosters the understanding and appreciation of the visual arts by providing direct experiences with original works of art supported by a range of exhibitions, programs and publications for the university and the broader community. The museum draws on the intellectual resources of a great research university and serves as a laboratory of the arts dedicated to multidisciplinary approaches to learning. These strategies make the Nasher at Duke a unique cornerstone of the arts for Duke University, Durham and the Triangle community, the State of North Carolina and the greater Southeast region. More information on the Nasher can be found at - The Nasher's website.

From the creator of the "Hell Car" anthology and "Onion Head Monster", Paul Friedrich will be loading up the gallery with new work just in time for the holiday season.

More of Paul's work can be seen on his site, Onionheadmonster.com.

We'll have "Onionjuice" of various sorts and "Family" will be here with some fine grooves. Opening is at 7pm, same as usual - we are closed during the day until that time.

We got art! More, and Gore Galore! It is VITAL that you know about this:

Martina Secondo Russo and Frank Russo of MF Gallery in Manhattan, NY are bringing down a visual onslaught of art that is sure to horrify the weak and tickle the fancies of the bold. If you're a fan of Zombies, Monsters, Sideshow Freaks or Horror Flicks, know this: these two are the East Coast's masters. They have endlessly and successfully shown some of the best art having anything to do with the pulp-monster universe that your fangs so fiercely crave.

Check them out online at mfgallery.net, but more importantly, check them out at Wootini on October 12! Mark the date, Horror Nuts!

This will also be a great time to welcome "Family" providing the dependable usual greatness with some fine grooves. Opening is at 7pm, same as usual - we are closed during the day until that time.

David, whose work has shown far and wide, is best known for his knock-out use of monkeys, luchadores, robots, and ham. Throw in some T.U.R.D. power cords and you have the most creative guy in Durham. Playful works urge the viewer to rabidly consume everything in sight and question American norms, his paintings never disappoint.

This will also be a great time to welcome "Family" providing the dependable usual greatness with some fine grooves. Opening is at 7pm, same as usual - we are closed during the day until that time.

After last years smashing success, we thought it prudent to get Jeremy Boyd, one of the curators of the "This Side Up: The Cardboard Show" that was featured here at Wootini last June, to curate another show - this time of artists from Richmond, Virginia. After overcoming his phobias, he pulled together some great work from James Callahan, Rob Choi, and Benjamin Yolton, Scott Mayo; all who also contributed to the "This Side Up" show. Only this time, they don't have to use cardboard as a medium; lots of 3d pieces, paintings, and drawings.

Jeremy Boyd is an Illustrator, Designer, and maker of stuff from Winchester Virginia. His work has won awards from the North Carolina Press Association, The Virginia Press Association, Brass Tacks Design, and the Associated Press among others. Jeremy was instrumental in creating the "This Side Up: The Cardboard Show".

 

 

James Callahan of Barf Comics is the writer and illustrator of the sci-fi, horror graphic novel Rotting in Dirtville. He's done a great deal of creative work in the music and sub-pop industry and currently is the head of the independent skate company, Nowhere Skateboards.

We'll have refreshments and "Family" will be here with some fine grooves. Opening is at 7pm, same as usual - we are closed during the day until that time.

Doodz OMG!!! Wootini is supremely proud to present Little Who of What: New Prints by The Little Friends of Printmaking, an exhibition of... er, new prints by award-winning artists & designers The Little Friends of Printmaking. The Little Friends' screenprinted work, pulsating with eye-scratching color and bristling with humor, has earned them an international reputation as an exciting new voice in art & design. Come check them out now, while you can still pretend that you've always been into their stuff. (Don't worry, we won't tell.)

The Little Friends of Printmaking are J W & Melissa Buchanan, a husband-and-wife team of artists & designers based out of Milwaukee, WI. Originally trained as fine art printmakers, their dalliance in silkscreened concert posters quickly turned into a design career. In 2006, they received the Young Guns award from the Art Directors' Club, honoring the world's finest emerging creatives under 30. Their work has been exhibited internationally, and they have been published in the recent books New Masters of Poster Design [Rockport], Two-Faced: The Changing Face of Portaiture [iDN], and Beasts! [Fantagraphics].

We'll have refreshments and "Family" will be here with some fine grooves. Opening is at 7pm, same as usual - we are closed during the day until that time.

Backwoods Golden Gigantic retreats back to the gigantic expansive wildness of yore and yesteryear- This place is silken and gilded and floats mist-haloed in my mind - a sexier, more muscley past, a half memory of better times, when a squirrel could still hop from tree to tree, in his or her own old growth backwoods Ironman, all the way from the Atlantic to the Mississippi, without ever touching the ground.

Beth Tacular has made drawings, paintings, and sculptures depicting submarines, a hairy and destructive lady named Mungry, frolicking unicorns, birds building nests and planting trees to smother out perfect subdivisions and downtown cityscapes. She obsesses over the studying the thin, wavering borderline between darling, sweet tenderness and fierce, self-possessed nobility. Beth has exhibited her art in galleries around the U.S., including the Bemis Center for Contemporary Arts in Omaha, NE, and Giant Robot in San Francisco. She also makes album art and magazine illustration for such clients as David Karsten Daniels and Venuszine. Her art for Backwoods Golden Gigantic is made in honor of her many wild ancestors, human and otherwise. She is a member of the BowerBirds.

Matt laFleur was born in Troy, N.Y. in 1981. He lives and works in Taborton, N.Y. located twenty miles east of the Hudson river. As well as being an artist Matt makes his living as a chimney sweep. Backwoods Golden Gigantic is Matt's first showing outside of the Northeast. Some favorite pastimes include dirt track racing, looking at Grandma Moses paintings, and splitting wood.

Eric Amling is the president of Human Hair & Co., specializing in Etc.'s and Miscellaneous. His work has appeared on the musical albums of Dr. Dog & the BowerBirds. He lives in Raleigh, NC. Backwoods Golden Gigantic is his first show

Opening starts at 7pm and goes until late, per usual - Family will be on hand as well.

To learn more about about Beth Tacular check out her site www.bethtacular.com.

S**t outta Luck: New work by Casey Robertson and Lany Devening. This new work takes a little stab at Luck, Life and Love.

Like the hot smell of new tar on the street, his work is warm, familiar, and reminds you to take your shoes off when you go in the house. Casey's work can be seen at the Resevoir, Milltown, among other fine establishments.

Lany Devening will also be exhibiting new work that is best described as "Off-Camera Violence". Lany is best known around Wootini as the "Gun Girl"

Snidely ironic and ever-entertaining, these artists have paired for a celebration of something, if not nothing.

Expect a little something different this time around for food and drinks. We'll have "Family" again with a special guest star to coincide with this show.

For the past few years, people have asked "Who made created the ceiling in the gallery?"

Well, now's your chance to meet "him". Ray Tolan has been worked on augmenting living spaces and creating amazing art pieces by warping all manner of things into incredible creations for over 20 years. With similar tools, and a different style, Brian Plaster (Winner of the Dunny Azteca competition) is known around town for his designs at the Wine Bar and "The Dwell house", his art shows at his gallery/workshop "Room", among many other projects. Brian's website can be found here.

Music provided by Family.

Dunny Azteca Release party!

January 18, 6-8pm

Prizes, Giveaways, Contest.. Contest? That's right.  You are going to have to color your booty off. 

Coloring Contest: Fans can download the coloring mask from the website (http://www.kidrobot.com/azteca), they can color it and bring it to the Azteca Dunny party for judging. We'll be judging a winner for the night, who will then win the pinata filled with dunnys and buttons.  There can be only one.....

This event is sponsored by Kid Robot and Pacifico Beer - well it will be if they send us the beer *nudge nudge*. 

Note: You MUST be here to present your Dunny mask to be eligible for the Dunny Coloring contest. No email or 2nd party entries allowed.  All work must be done by the presenter. 

Family will provide music, refreshments per usual.

From the creator of the "Hell Car" anthology and "Onion Head Monster", Paul Friedrich will be loading up the gallery with new work for the holiday season. A new fun Onion Head Monster item will debut for Paul - "Pillow Cases". "Now I lay me" prayers will never be the same. Opening starts at 7pm and goes until late, per usual - Family will be on hand as well.

More of Paul's work can be seen on his site, Onionheadmonster.com.

David Huyck's Playground Rules is a collection of paintings, drawings, sculptures, and installation that centers on the ethics of the playground. Might makes right and size definitely matters when your milk money is at stake. But where does it all come from? Who started it? What came first: the bully or the nerd? How does it all escalate, and how long can a grudge really last?

Come meet the everybully, Fist Face, and his many victims, real and imagined, from November 10 - December 4, 2006 at Wootini in Carrboro, NC. Celebrate his glory and defend the defenseless with us on Friday November 10, 2006, from 7pm - midnight.

More of David's work can be seen on his site, BunchofMonkeys.com.

Thanks to some special friends of Wootini, we have the first special commercial work of some amazing "Consume! T.U.R.D.S." (not those in the funny hats). If you are listening to WCHL you might here one of these special tunes some time soon.

Tell us your favorite! We look forward to hearing more ...

Take #1.
Take #2.
Take #3.

Stay tuned to David Rose's website to find out about more updates regarding "Señor Pantalones" and CONSUME! "T.U.R.D.S." You can find DKR's site here.

We assure you - this show isn't just cold leftovers, bad bean dip, and 5 bags of nachos. The work is great. We didn't have much time, so the submission requirements mainly involved an artist getting their piece here before the due date and appealing to the Wootini aesthetic. This had us a little worried, but we crossed our fingers. As boxes arrived and artists stopped by to drop off their work, it became clear that this was going to be a very good show. Surprisingly we found most of the work was new and created with this show in mind; some of the pieces are unlike any we've shown before. That means some really motivated people out there hussled to get something together - major respect to all artists that did this under that sort of deadline. There were some other surprises regarding submissions, we received more 3D pieces than usual. For example, Celia Gray's piece called "Sit Tight" is fashioned from steel and pig intestines (in case you forgot you were in BBQ country). Even some life-like corpses will be for sale by a local artist. Because of the great response, we're thinking we need to do this again in 2007. We'll keep you posted.

Artists in no particular order that were awesome enough to contribute include, Jim Koch, Laird & Kevin Dixon, Plaseebo, Casey Robertson, ""Hello, Brute", Jason Hankins, Phoneticontrol, Marialana Albani, Tiffany O'Brien, Forest Steel, Lany Devening, Brandon Reese, Maria Britton, Alec Grossman, Lorna Wang, Increase Maready, Alyssa Stepien, Roy Vento, "Grim" Lee Williamson and more.

Roy Vento

Plaseebo

Celia Gray

Tiffany O'Brien

"Grim" Lee Williamson aka "Dude Wrangler"

"Family" will be back with music after being off for 2 months.

The opening reception will be held October 13, 2006, from 7pm to midnight, and the works will be on display until November 8th.

For more information, contact Wootini or 919-933-6061.

Upcoming shows:
November 10th, 7pm - David Huyck Solo Exhibit "Playground Rules", See BunchofMonkeys.com
December 8th, 7pm - Paul Friedriche "Onion Head Monster".

If you've seen our front window - you know you are in for a treat when the authors of "Sock Monkey Dreams" are here for a signing on Sept. 20, 2006.

They'll be signing from 12-6pm and have lots of fun Sock Monkey goodies available. We know that you probably can't wait so check out their website, SockMonkeyDreams.

To herald the event, a live performance by Dan Melchoir and The Gondoliers (formerly the Spinns) will be rocking out - in addition with some psychodelic sounds in between. Live performance will be around 9ish. Remeber to support the event - whether it be by purchasing art or some tribute of Alms in the offering kitty.

The opening reception will be held September 8th, 2006, from 7pm to midnight, and the works will be on display until October 10th.

For more information, contact Wootini or 919-933-6061.

NOTE: October's show with SEEN is CANCELLED and will not be rescheduled.

Just wanted to remind everyone about the Dunny trading party is this Thursday July 27th, from 6-8PM!

Kidrobot's Dunny Series 3, which will release on July 27th features artists Tilt, Huck Gee, Ron English, Flying Fortress, Attaboy, Craola, Tokidoki, Mishka, CW, Touma, Joe Ledbetter, Alex Pardee, Friends With You, Tristan Eaton, D23, Abe Lincoln Jr., and Feric.

The 17 piece blind assortment series will retail at $5.95 and some designs are limited to just 500 pieces. To add to the excitement, hidden inside special boxes are 400 tickets redeemable for an 8-inch Love Dunny by Tado, who also designed the box art. 1 grand prizewinner will receive a custom 20-inch Dunny by Tado.

There will also be some cool giveaways such as pins, stickers, colorbooks, shirts and MORE! We will also have soda to quench your thirst! Mmmmm!

Trading Parties are not just limited to Dunnys, you can bring tons of other items with you to trade:

* Older Dunnys

* Custom Munnys

* Original drawings from artists

* Limited edition prints

* Skatedecks

* Limited run exclusives

* Your own artwork

* Rare shirts

* Mint copies of old magazines

* Special promotional items

* Gift certificates

Hope to see you Thursday!

Sneak Peeks...

This July, over 30 artists will face their fears, from movie monsters to bedroom boogeymen and beyond, in Wootini's Lions, Tigers, Bears, Etc., a curatorial debut for artist David Huyck. Artists such as Colin Christian, Chris Ryniak, and The Little Friends of Printmaking will join Wootini friends Andrew Bell, Bwana Spoons, David K. Rose, Jermaine Rogers, and others, in this exploration of our various emotional tormentors. Oh, my!

The opening reception will be held July 14th, 2006, from 7pm to midnight, and the works will be on display until September 4th. After the close of the show, all the art will be collected in a catalog to be available nationally.

For more information, see the bunchofmonkeys.com site, or contact Wootini at lionsandtigers or 919-933-6061.

This Side Up started as an idea on an Gigposters.com's forum last year has turned into an amazing body of work to be on display this Friday, June 9th at 7pm. Created on square pieces of cardboard, 56 participating artists from around the world, most of which are active members of the online rock-art community, contributed to the body of work.

A book containing all the artwork from the show is in the process of being published. We should have a copy here to view and will start taking orders for the book in the coming week.

A portion of the proceeds from the book and art sales will be donated to national and local homeless charities.

Some of the artists will be on hand so come out at 7pm and meet them, have a drink or snack and listen to "Family".

Coming on July 14th
July 14th, 7pm - "Lion, Tigers, and Bears" a group show curated by David Huyck featuring over 30 artists such as Scott Musgrove, Colin Cristian, Bwanna Spoons, Little Friends of Print Making, David K. Rose, Casey Porn, and many more! Full list to be disclosed soon.

Wootini also made "Best Bets" in the Independent. Which also is currently running a "Best of the Triangle". Be sure to vote for your favorite places in North Carolina. Our address is on the lower left for those looking.

Consume! featuring original paintings by David K. Rose and Casey Porn opens on Friday May 12th from 7pm to ???. David K. Rose best known for his art-faux-wrestling performances and work at Red Storm has become a triangle art phenomenom. David may be the fastest artist in the South doing such things as 'Art Bingo' where by the time you yell 'Bingo' - you've won the artwork he was working on. Some custom 3D pieces as well as 2D will be on display.

Casey Porn has been a strong force on the local art scene with her work for Holly Aiken Design and recent shows at Bicket Gallery and Design Box in Raleigh. Casey is every bit as cool as her name implys.

So plan to come out for a night of art, music and of course refreshments.

Note: The SEEN show has been postponed until a later date.

Upcoming shows:
June 8th, 7pm - Debut and Book release for the "This Side Up Show".
July 14th, 7pm - "Lion, Tigers, and Bears" a group show curated by David Huyck featuring over 30 artists such as Jermaine Rogers, Liz McGrath, Colin Cristian, Bwanna Spoons, Little Friends of Print Making, David K. Rose, Casey Porn, and many more! Full list to be disclosed soon.

The Daily Tarheel recently had 2 stories one about Wootini, and the other referencing us.

To read more about the story about the Carrboro song, read here.

Wootini presents the mighty art posse - Circus Posterus. A collective of artists of which the following have contributed to this show:

Kathie Olivas - A seer of discerning cuteness and master of feardom.

Brandt Peters - A tamer of Animalia, and ‘masked’ glorified cartoon alter egos.

Rob Schwager - A walking bottle of Illusion waiting to be released by pencil, pen, and ink.

Brandon Dunlap - The fresh meat at Circus Posterus.

The show opens on Friday, April 14th, and runs from 7pm - ??. Original art and more with refreshments and music from Family. Show runs through 8th of May, 2006.

Upcoming shows:
May 12th, 7pm - The Godfather of Graphitti himself, SEEN.
June 8th, 7pm - Debut and Book release for the "This Side Up Show".
July 14th, 7pm - "Lion, Tigers, and Bears" a group show curated by David Huyck featuring over 30 artists such as Jermaine Rogers, Liz McGrath, Colin Cristian, Bwanna Spoons, Little Friends of Print Making, David K. Rose, Casey Porn, and many more! Full list to be disclosed soon.

Look forward to seeing you - if you need help with arranging lodging for a show, please let us know.

Some sample lyrics include -

Wootini got a lot of funky toyz
If you disrespect you betta bring ya boyz
You know you gonna check my stance, my poize
C’mon Carrboro, let’s make some noize!

We're trying to convince them to come out the night of the opening for the shoot. If you haven't heard this awesomeness - check it out.

Wootini presents Attaboy and Annie Owens, the co-creators and editors of HiFructose magazine. The show opens on Friday, March 10th, and starts goes from 7pm - ??. Original art and more with refreshments and music from Family. Show runs through 10th of April, 2006.

Upcoming shows:
April 14th, 7pm - The Circus Posterus artist collective.
May 12th, 7pm - The Godfather of Graphitti himself, SEEN.
June 8th, 7pm - Debut and Book release for the "This Side Up Show".

Look forward to seeing you - if you need help with arranging lodging for a show, please let us know.

American Institute of Graphic Arts
Raleigh Chapter PO Box 10849 Raleigh, North Carolina 27605

Wootini and AIGA (American Institute of Graphic Arts)Raleigh are bringing Gary Baseman to town for a lecture on Thursday, March 2 at the NC Museum of Art in Raleigh.

If you don't already know about Gary Baseman's work, check out some of his limited pieces in the bio section.

After the lecture, there'll be autographed pieces as door prizes and some limited items.

Tickets are:
$10 for AIGA student members
$20 for AIGA members and student non-members
$30 for non-AIGA members

Times:
The lecture will begin at 7:30pm, with a reception starting at 6:30pm, in the education wing of the museum.

Exclusive workshop with Gary Baseman: Friday, March 3

A creative workshop where you can learn more about Gary's techniques or just doodle with him.

Friday, March 3
2pm – 4pm at


201 E. Davie St., Raleigh, North Carolina 27601
(919) 821.2787

PRICES
$60 - AIGA non-members
$40 - AIGA members and student non-members
$30 - AIGA student members

-> REGISTER HERE <-

Gary Baseman Signing: Friday, March 3
7pm - 9pm at Wootini.

And of course, the signing with Gary Baseman at Wootini.  Signing begins at 7:00 pm and goes until 9:00 pm.  This timeline will be strict, so if you are concerned about making it in time - be here early.

We'll have lots of things on hand that can be signed by Gary so come on out.

Upcoming shows:
March 10th, 7pm - Attaboy and Annie Owens Co-Creators and Editors of HiFructose.
April 14th, 7pm - The Circus Posterus artist collective.
May 12th, 7pm - The Godfather of Graphitti himself, SEEN.
June 8th, 7pm - Debut and Book release for the "This Side Up Show".

Look forward to seeing you - if you need help with arranging lodging for a show, please let us know.

Bloo Empire, a regional artist from Charlotte, and Tony Shiau aka "Nakanari" (curator of the Funny Club Show) who originally hails from Taiwan and now resides in Florida will kick off the year with a series of paintings, custom 3D pieces, and more. A special nakanari toy exclusive will be available the nite of the opening.

The show opening is the 2nd Friday of the month - February 10th starting at 7pm until ???. Auditory experience by "Family" and the usual fanfare. To learn more about Bloo Empire check out Bloo Empire, to learn more about Nakanari - you better be there.

We also have an amazing show list lined up for the coming year. Here is a list of some of the upcoming shows:

March 3rd, 7pm - Gary Baseman signing.
March 10th, 7pm - Attaboy and Annie Owens Co-Creators and Editors of HiFructose.
April 14th, 7pm - The Circus Posterus artist collective.
May 12th, 7pm - The Godfather of Graphitti himself, SEEN.
June 8th, 7pm - Debut and Book release for the "This Side Up Show".

Look forward to seeing you - if you need help with arranging lodging for a show, please let us know.

Squire PRE-ORDER Sale

Thursday January 26th, at 3pm EST.

Wootini is proud to announce it's latest production: Squire by Jermaine Rogers. You can preview the Squire pieces on the site now.   

The set is here.

and the regular version is here.

Details about the figures are listed under those links.

Currently they are listed as SOLD OUT.  Do not fear, at the time for Squire to go on sale, the quantities will be in place.  If at the time of sale you attempt to put more than one Squire Set order in your cart, you will NOT receive ANY Squire Sets.  If you wish to purchase more than one regular Squire - that's fine.  In addition, there is no preorder list, holding of orders, or pieces to be set aside. PLEASE do not ask us to do this.

Orders will be processed by hand to validate each order for errors and to make sure that your purchase is not hung up in the shopping cart.  While ordering, you order the item, fill out the proper information and process it. If you are paying by paypal, you will be sent a request. If your order went through - you will be sent a paypal request.  If you are paying by Visa or Mastercard, you will be sent an email when it is processed.  In the event that there is a problem like last year with multiple orders being submitted, the extra order will be deleted.  If multiple orders get through from simultaneous orders - in essence overselling the item, we will contact you and fill the orders in the order that they have been received.

If you are inquiring about Wholesale orders for Squire - it will be best to talk to STRANGEco at Toyfair about this.  I will also be there to help you with ordering Squire if you wish.  Pricing and availability will be available at that time. 

A PRE-ORDER of  'Shadow Squire: The Observer' will be made available for individual sale very soon.  I can tell you this will occur before Toy Fair in NYC.

If you PRE-ORDER Shadow Squire as well, shipping will be combined for both orders and sent out together. We anticipate a boat landing sometime in late February, Early March.

To learn more about Jermaine, visit his site at jermainerogers.com.

To learn more about Mexican Chocolate Design please check their site as well.

And not to forget out pals at STRANGEco, check them out as well.

Many thanks from Jermaine Rogers, STRANGEco and Wootini,
-mike

Copy from their website:
"Each Mister Diplomat show consists of monologues, performed by a local guest celebrity, followed by connected scenes, fully improvised by the aggressive longform rockstars of the DSI Comedy Theater. There are two halves of the show, each one inspired by a different audience suggestion."

DSI COMEDY THEATER
http://www.dsicomedytheater.com
@ Carr Mill Mall (Entrance behind Elmos Diner)
200 N Greensboro St. Ste B-11 Carrboro NC 27510
box office: (919) 338-8150

Straight out of Portland, the crazy doglike monkey Bwana Spoons comes into town with an amazing new show called "Jessie's Palace".

One Day Jessie the Wanderer woke up on the beach with way too much sand in his ears and said, "I don't wanna wander no more."  So he set out on a mini-quest to find some land and build some proper shelter.  From this endeavour came Jessie's Palace.  Expect to see lots of new paintings, tiny sculptures, and piles of driftwood.

This show will run until January.  Opening reception for this show is December 9th, at 7pm-???.  Some snacks and swill as usual, and auditory experience by "Family".  To learn more about Bwana Spoons - hop on over to Grasshut Corp.

So who are these people?

A.D. Puchalski aka Angel Devil has been writing, drawing, painting and sculpting for the past ten years. She has been featured in "Contemporary Doll Artists" and "Their Dolls", acted as a contributor to "Morbid Curiosity", created the character and corresponding doll of Waif, sculpted countless one-of-a-kind Angel Devil Dolls and designed Cheshire Cat and other capsule toys for Toy2R. More of her work can be seen on her website.

Sam Fout is an illustrator, animator and comic strip creator. His past credits include Disney’s ‘Proud Family’, Saturday Night Live’s ‘Ambiguously Gay Duo’ and [adult swim]’s ‘Harvey Birdman, Attorney at Law’. Moon Toad Productions is his design house - which also happend to do 3D prototyping. More information can be found on the Moon Toad Production site.

This show will be on display until December 5th, Bwanna Spoons will follow. Reception for this show is November 11th, 7pm with the usual fanfare and delights. Auditory accompaniment by "Family". Hope to see you there!

Cannonball Press 2005 World Tour is coming to Carrboro. The Cannonball Press team of Michael Mazorra, Michael Houston, and others have assembled an amazing body of work. Massive 8ft x 4ft banners, Giant Monster Banners, and low priced prints will all be on display. Artists include: David Ellis (Barnstormers), Jenny Schmid, Joe Stauber, Swoon, David Watne, Maya Hayuk, JK5, Bill Fick (Cockeyed Press), Mike Ming, Dennis Mcnett (Howling Print), Bill Thelen (Lump Gallery) and many more!

More pictures are here, here, and here.

The opening will be on Saturday, November 5th, from 7pm until 12am (or until we kick y'all out!). Punk and Country music, Cheerwine, perhaps some other beverages, etc. Cannonball Press will be present and in force at this opening.

If you're traveling to the show, check the directions here or give us a call at 919.933.6061. We look forward to seeing you there!

On October 14th, we are proud to announce our next show - "Guys versus Ghosts".

This show features the art of Meredith Dittmar, who hails from Portland, Oregon.  For 10 Years, Meredith has crafted the 'My Guys' from polymer clay.  Her work has been featured on HGTV, in a Converse ad, and with various other outlets.  More information about Meredith can be obtained from her website - Corporate Pig.

Back on the East Coast, we have Mark Bodnar and Trevor Zammit - the brain behind the sheet.  The "Sheet Ghosts" were conceived in 2004.  If you are interested in joining the Junior Sheet Folding club, better show up at this show and certainly check out their website Sheet Ghosts. Perhaps you can ask them about their super secret project with a certain network - they won't even tell us!!

The opening begins at 7pm, and runs until around Midnight.  Usual sustenance will be provided.   Tracks to be laid by Family.

If you need more information or directions please email info@wootini.com.

Andrew Bell, originator of DYZ Plastic, creator of Groob, founder of Creatures in My Head, and member of Dumbrella (whew!), will be showing with us from 9 September through 10 October.

The opening will be on Friday, 9 September, from 7pm until 12am (or until we kick y'all out!). Original art, books, tees, toys and more will be served up from Andrew's crazy head, along with music from Family, beverages, etc. You can meet Andrew at the opening; more information about his background and work is here.

For all of you poor saps not lucky enough to live near Wootini, don't worry - we'll put Andrew's show up online for your viewing and purchasing pleasure. If you're traveling to NC for the show, please feel free to contact us on 919.933.6061 or info@wootini.com to help you make reservations for a hotel, or if there are any questions. We look forward to seeing you there!

A huge thank you to Grayson for toughing out a late-night interview and writing a great article. You can peruse his coverage here; while you're at it, check out the other great area businesses.

Hope to see you on the 9th for Andrew Bell's opening!

Glamout Cat is based on one of Scott's Fauna. Please visit his site to see all of the wonderous creatures. You can investigate here.

There is also an excellent interview on Scott and the development of his work at Millionaire Playboy; you can also enter a contest there to win an UV version of Glamour Cat.

All the different variants and amounts are listed on our site and on STRANGEco; the Gold version is an "Artist Only" version. It is unknown at this time if it will be sold. All variants can be viewed here on location in beautiful downtown Carrboro, NC.  Come here to get your hands (whoa there bucko - that's figuratively speaking) on the new releases.

Other Quickies - There will be many new pieces uploaded over this week, so keep your browser refreshed. Also - there are some changes to the site: upon any order, you will be contacted with more direct information regarding payment and shipping within 48 hours (don't worry, if you made an order it is marked and decrimented from inventory). This will ensure that someone is looking after your order and minimize errors in processing automated shipping and payment from 3rd party sites.  Keep in mind you can also make a phone order by calling us at 919.933.6061 during the business hours listed on the site.  More site developments to come in the not-so-distant future. 

Wootini presents “Hanging Around” on Friday, 12 August, from 7pm - 12am in the Carr Mill Mall. Nibbles, beverages and music served up, along with fabulous new (and old) rock art posters from Jermaine Rogers and Dale Flattum, and prints from MARS-1, Dale, Benjamin Lande and more.

BONUS! Original art from jerstin, lead singer and guitar player of "Tennis and the Mennonites".

More info? Mail info@wootini.com or ring 933.6061.

July 14th - 17th, 2005 Wootini will be exhibiting at San Diego Comic Con with Designer Vinyl industry leader, STRANGEco. San Diego Comic Con is a mega-event; last year, over 87,000 individuals attended. It's a big place and there are miles of amazing things. To find us, come to the Toy Growers area.  We'll be representing our product line in STRANGEco's booth - number 4537 for those of you keeping track.

And you will want to be able to find us! Wootini is debuting a newly co-produced toy called "Glamour Cat", which is based on the paintings by artist Scott Musgrove. To celebrate the release of this piece, San Diego Comic Con will be the first - and possibly the only chance - to get the Wootini and STRANGEco variant versions. These exclusives are limited to 102 per colorway and will be $40.00+tax. Here is a sneak peek:

The STRANGEco exclusive is Glamour Cat as he may have appeared at twilight.

But there is certainly more than one light spectrum. The Wootini exclusive demonstrates how Glamour Cat would have looked through the eyes of a creature with Ultraviolet Vision. Is it possible a predator with UV Vision helped lead Glamour Cat to extinction?

Note: This image is not of the highest quality - it's tough out here in the wild.

And of course, there are some images of Glamour Cat in the daytime.

Here is a list of some other confirmed pieces:

Other things you will just have to see for yourself!

Signings:
James Jarvis - Friday 12-1:30
Nathan Jurevicius - Saturday 12-1:30
MARS-1 and others will be floating about the show on and off.

Hope to see you all there! - Mike and Heather of Wootini.

With each new show, a new category will be created to represent the pieces in that show. Pieces that are in the old show, will remain up as long as they are for sale, and marked as sold when they are gone. You can come in and pick them up, or have us ship them to you as well. Pieces will be placed online roughly a week or two after an opening. We also have some pieces from older shows that we will be adding as they become available.

To view the new gallery section, just click on the galllery button on the right hand side of the screen.

To view more about the lastest pieces - go here.

We are grateful to the folks at the Herald Sun who chose us as the business of the week.  Read about our upcoming goings-on here.

Rebirth & Awakenings is a celebration of all things new and reborn. Or maybe it's just a wake-up call for you to come check out some amazing art!

On Friday, June 10th from 7pm to 12am, we'll be unveiling new pieces while DJ Uzi and "Family" friends are serving up some groovin' toons. Refreshments will also be available.

Featuring the latest works from:

Show runs through July 5th.

Some pieces will be available for sale during and after the show here.

Here's some info from the Herald Sun's Business Buzz about our gallery (it's below the Byrd's article).  Look for an upcoming article revealing some surprises as well!

Local business owners, including our own Heather Yurko, chime in and give their advice to recent grads.  Read the full story here:

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:

Wootini Opening Permanent Gallery Space Carrboro, NC — At the beginning of last June, Wootini was busy planning the opening party for the first designer toy store in the Southeast. This year on May 16th, Wootini will be embarking on a new adventure: the expansion of their store and the launch of a permanent gallery.

When partners Michael Maher and Heather Yurko first opened Wootini, they were met with mixture of excitement, glee, confusion and skepticism. “About 90% of the people who walked through the door would just look at me and say, ‘What is this place? This is really cool!’. Five percent would back out the door politely. The other 10% would say, ‘Oh my gosh, you have Tim Biskup toys!’. Then I would say, ‘Oh my gosh, you’ve heard of Tim Biskup!’ It’s been wonderful to see people who walk through the door for the first time wide-eyed become long-time clients and friends. We’ve had a lot of fun being in the store and talking to people about the artists and toys we love so much”, says Yurko.

It was their desire to share their love of this new art form that prompted Maher and Yurko to curate a toy show last year. Their first show included pieces from their personal and other’s collections, along with original pieces from local artists like David Rose, Paul Friedrich, Forrest Steel and Sarah Carrier. After the success of the first show, they decided to do another with Jermaine Rogers, to coincide with the release of their first art toy collaboration, Dero. The feedback that they received from Jermaine’s show was overwhelming. “We had over 750 people show up for the opening that night. It was packed. Many clients asked us, ‘Are you going to keep doing shows?’ Then Heather started asking artists if they would be interested in showing with us in North Carolina. A lot of them said that they were. Then a space that we had been admiring became available. It all just came together at the right time”, says Maher, founder of Wootini.

Although it seems like just yesterday that Wootini opened its doors for the first time, they are now working busily to get the new space ready for the launch next week. According to Yurko, their new store and gallery are about two and half times bigger than their current location. “It was important to us to have a separate gallery; it’s nice to be able to walk around in the space and look at the artwork by itself. It’s also great to have a little more room in the back to expand upon our current offering.”

Their new space will feature a separate gallery and sections of merchandise including vinyl toys, plush, artist-designed apparel, publications, capsule toys and various sundries. There will be a new gallery show every month, and a back room gallery that contains their permanent collection of prints and art available for sale.

Wootini opens its new doors in the Carr Mill Mall on May 16th. Their first gallery show, Rebirth and Awakenings, will open on Friday, 10 June, at 7 pm.

We think the award is great, even if it is "Most Likely to Kill You While You Sleep"...

Read some background info on the Dero, get an insider's peek on some original illustrations, enter the contest!  Bask in the cool glow of the Ultra Rare GITD Dero! 

While you're there, check out past contests and read up on all of your other favorite toys, vinyl and otherwise.

Thanks guys!

Thanks to all of our clientele who bought tickets and supported a great cause!  Everyone that participated in the show had a great time, as did some of the media that showed up for the event.

The fashiow show which benefits Cornucopia House, a local cancer center which provides education and services to cancer patients and their families free of charge, is coming up next Monday, the 21st.  A few tickets are still available for purchase.  Each ticket stub is good for a raffle drawing - and Wootini's contribution is Moon Girl!  Yes, for only $25 (which goes to a good cause) you can buy a raffle ticket to win Moon Girl - an $80 figure.  If you're in the area, you can come to the lunch at Panzanella; if not, you're still entered in the drawing.  Purchase your ticket today here:

 http://www.wootini.com/items.php?section=7

Or give us a call on 919.933.6061, or swing by and pick one up!

Thanks for your support!

On Monday, March 21st, we'll be participating in a fashion show that benefits Cornucopia House - a local cancer support center, Cornucopia.org . The show will be held at Panzanella restaurant, located in the Historic Carr Mill Mall, and will include a fabulous lunch and fashion walk.  Each of the participating merchants will have up to four designs from their spring collection available for viewing.  There will also be a raffle for door prizes from each of the participating merchants (wait 'til you see what Wootini is donating!), and you don't have to be present to win. 

In addition to the fashion show donations, anyone shopping at these stores the week of March 21st-26th can present their ticketstubs or postcard to have a portion of the proceeds from their purchase go to Cornucopia House.  At Wootini, 10% of all purchases over $50 will go to Cornucopia House, and any purchase over $100 will receive a free capsule toy. 

Tickets can be purchased from our website, the Weaver Street Customer Service Desk, or from the Carr Mill Mall Offices.  Doors open at 11:45 am and the show runs from 12-1:30 pm.  For more information, give us a ring on 919.933.6061.

Wootini will be attending the NYC Toy Fair International from Feb 20-23.  If you are lucky enough to attend you can visit us at Booth #5847 and catch a sneak peek of our upcoming projects.

We'll give you a hint - another piece by Jermaine Rogers and another artist yet to be announced.

Brian McCarty will be joining us for a few events this week. Come check them out!

*A lecture on his works will be presented by Brian at the Hanes Art Center on UNC - Chapel Hill's campus. This is a rare chance to hear Brian speak about his past in the advertising industry and his present and future with McCarty Photoworks. He will be showing his work and discussing it with the audience as well. Light reception to follow.

Hanes is located on South Columbia Street, near the corner of East Franklin Street, next to the Carolina Theater. The lecture will be held Tuesday, 1 February at 7pm. Seats are limited to 300, so we recommend getting there a bit early. Hanes Art Center can be contacted on 919.962.2015. Part of the Art Brews Lecture Series, presented by Jersten Crosby. (The best way to get to the Hanes auditorium on foot is to walk up the alleyway off Franklin Street next to the Carolina Coffee shop. Follow the alley straight, until it turns into a walkway, and ends in a large parking lot, and Hanes is the very large brick building to the right.)

*Brian will be opening his new show "Outside the Toy Box: The Photography of Brian McCarty" with us at the Carrboro Arts Center. This is an unusual opportunity to view Brian's work in person and purchase prints from him. Look for a *very* limited edition McCarty Photoworks art toy to be debuting there! He will be available for comment and signing.
The Carrboro Arts Center is located at 300G East Main Street, in Carrboro. The show will run from 1-28 February. The opening reception will be held on 4 February from 7p-12a. Nibbles and drinks will be available. The Arts Center can be contacted on 919.929.2787, or at info@artscenterlive.org.

More info on Brian McCarty's work can be found at www.mccartyphotoworks.com.

And, as always, you can contact us on 919.933.6061 or info@wootini.com if there are any questions. We look forward to seeing you there!

RTM gives a sneak peek at the up-and-coming Dero figures from Jermaine Rogers and Wootini.  Complete with some info from Jermaine's site.

Check it out now!

If you haven't already received the news from Jermaine, this is the place to get your pre-order of Dero now.  Quantities are very limited, so get them while you can.  The Dero figures will be shipping in January when they arrive. 

Also, due to the demand in the Figure Set, multiple orders were made at the exact same time resulting in this item being oversold.  If you had purchased this item, you may be contacted about this item.  We apologize for this problem and will make every effort to sort it out.

The News and observer did a great job breaking down Designer Vinyl Toys.

You can read about it here.

If you missed our first show that featured local limited toy collections and artists: David Rose, Dale Flattum, Jerstin, Bill Fick, SIN Ltd, and Forrest Steel; you'll have to come to the next one on November 19th, 2004 which will be the unveiling of Wootini's first limited Vinyl piece.  There will be some ultra limited versions available for this special event.  Details on the show and artist will be forthcoming.