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| "Charmaine": acrylic & collage on canvas. (j.long) |
Want music?
Click: George Harrison, My Sweet Lord.
2GN2S
I had planned to feature an artist, and I will, but at the last minute decided to feature a dozen artists, I could have shown more. Artists that really appeal to me, and so a nice way to start 2026. I don't get many comments, but I really appreciate your feedback when time allows and you enjoy something?
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| Kubita Takeharu |
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| by Cathy Cancon |
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| by Fiona Watson |
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| JT McMaster |
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| Elisabeth Dupin-Sjöstedt |
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| Francisco Cortijo 2 |
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| Robert Bender |
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| Paul Bailey |
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| Max Leiva |
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| Marquest Cathcart |
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| Tom Homewood |
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| Ivey Hayes |
Wishing you a Happy, Healthy 2006 and ...
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| Keren |
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| "Demura Sensei" 2009 |
"All who ever took a kyu or dan test, know this face."
In 1974, Yuko Shimizu sketched a simple white cat that would become Hello Kitty, one of the most successful global brands in history. Despite initial rejection for being too childish, the character debuted on a coin purse in 1975 and became an instant sensation. This humble beginning proved that simplicity and emotional resonance can build a worldwide icon.
The intentional lack of a mouth allows fans to project their own feelings onto the character, making her universally relatable. This unique design choice helped the brand transcend age and culture, appealing to both children and adults. Hello Kitty eventually moved beyond stationary to dominate fashion, entertainment, and luxury markets.
Today, Sanrio’s creation is valued at over 80 billion dollars, spanning 50,000 products and theme parks across 60 countries. The brand's enduring success demonstrates how a clear vision and simple design can create a timeless legacy. It remains a powerful example of the massive commercial potential found in emotional connection.
Back in the Dojo, again.
I got lucky, I was invited to lunch after the last class of the year at the Genbu-Kai Honbu Dojo in Santa Ana. I was able to watch and enjoy vicariously a great hour and a half kata class taught by both Sensei's Christie and Dave Hines. At the end, they took a group photo and had me join them, it felt really good to be included.
back row: Atomu Sakai, David Hines, Jerry Short, Roy Center, me, Chris Maxwell, Darren Tow.
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| Atomu Sakai, Soma Sakai, Landyn Endo, me |
Just because ...
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| Great Bowerbird |
Thursday's Smiles ...
Hoping you feel all the good things in your day.
