Their names probably sound like some glib talk show hosts' but one can never guess what wonders this tandem can do. I can still remember MJ raving about their wonderful illustrations. And just by looking at them, I could tell that they were created by some strange beings from another universe. It never dawned on me that I'd get to have a close encounter with them one day and be faced with the most normal-looking kids fresh out of college.
There is never a dull moment working with this creative duo. Crissy's enthusiasm could light up a whole auditorium while Charli's soulful aria could wake even the tiniest roach in it. So when MJ asked me if I was willing to do these whimsical portraits for them, I didn’t hesitate even if I had to draw them on a plane to Singapore and back.
There is never a dull moment working with this creative duo. Crissy's enthusiasm could light up a whole auditorium while Charli's soulful aria could wake even the tiniest roach in it. So when MJ asked me if I was willing to do these whimsical portraits for them, I didn’t hesitate even if I had to draw them on a plane to Singapore and back.
Some of the food labels I designed with Charli.
That is how I had envisioned my self two years ago when I handed the drafts of the Lutong Bahay. Two long years in the making. And I could no longer remember how many revisions it took but those nights when I would patiently wait for my turn on my housemates' computers developing the framework and illustrations were enough proof that this is hard work neatly bound with love. Not to mention the efforts exhausted by a group of talented young artists that involves a flawless skincare endorser, a balladeer and a Harry Potter fan, a romantic sculptor and a repenting emo; the inputs of the chef/food stylist/photographer; and of course the unmistakable taste of the genius who is behind all these.
Yesterday I went to my former office, which by the way is a company that's been around for quite a long time selling sauces and mixes. During my stay as their in-house art director, I was caught in a transition from the traditional look to the new image they're trying to portray in order to compete with rival companies. I had designed some packages, one is out in the market today and three more coming out next year. What's more interesting is I got to work with younger artists. Fresh from college, they were full of new ideas and optimism. It was fun working with them and they were the reason why I visited.
