The instability of the weather has become one of Carlito's biggest challenges. In a span of ten minutes, we watched a hot sunny day turn into one great big black cloud, followed by thunder, lightening and then the storm.
The highlight of today was when a friend showed up on site with the Toronto Star. On page E8 is a fabulous picture of Carlito and the painting. This made the artist very happy. "I think it is amazing and I am really excited." Knowing that word about the artist and this project is getting out there whatever the medium, is a wonderful thing.
What is very impressive is the resilience of everyone and regardless of the weather, the painting seems protected and continues to hang without incident.
Despite the obstacles, individual teams manning the terrace are in great spirits as they prepare for the final day including an official unveiling and signing.
As they say, it is not over until the fat lady sings!
Saturday, June 9, 2007
June 8 - The Fearless Artist
June 8 - Messages to Carlito
I can hardly wait to get to Toronto and see the artist in action. What a wonderful idea!
-Andrew McNally (Montreal, QC)
Go Carlito Go!
Paul Osten
June 8 - Celebrity Sighting
Eva Avila (Canadian Idol Winner) was seen at Maybelline/Redken events at the Distillery District's Fermenting Cellar.
Friday, June 8, 2007
June 7- You Should Have Been There
Today was the kind of day we dream about for this event and its intent and purpose. A relaxed vibe, the people on the Oasis made it known that there was no other place they would rather be.
Appropriately enough, the music followed suit with songs like, Maria Carey’s “We belong together” playing in the background. It was a day inspired by the beauty of Carlito’s painting, and people felt special just to be in the presence of an amazing piece of work while hanging out with other cool folks.
The L’Oréal team of hair and make-up artists worked non-stop keeping the guests of the Oasis looking beautiful with free sessions. All the while, the artist worked comfortably on the scaffolding for what seemed like record hours of painting.
Carlito is in great spirits and focused on bringing his painting to life with every passing day. Feeling inspired, he took the time to sketch personalized drawings to admirers who watch from below, and in the most charming manner, rolled them down with the scaffolding cords into their hands. “I felt like I was a sailor sending a message in a bottle. I love the interaction with people. Normally when I do live art I am closer to the people, but the scaffolding makes it difficult so I thought this was the best way to reach them.”
I could go on and on about the great vibe but because I am your friend, I will leave the rest for you to discover. See you soon :)
June 7 - Celebrity Sighting
Robin Kay of the Fashion Design Council of Canada was seen at the Oasis getting touch ups from the L'Oréal hair and make-up team.
Thursday, June 7, 2007
June 6 - I Feel Like a Woman
With the cold, wind and rain behind us, mother natures once again invites Carlito back out to play. Without hesitation, the artist had a plan of execution that involved a major change to the painting. Up until this point, he has complemented the images and hidden messages with a background of burnt orange. Beginning at the top left corner, that background has transformed into a beautiful turquoise backdrop.
Today's focus was on defining meticulous details including, the emphasis on seashell headpieces and the images of women in brilliant metallic. “Seashells are perfection and sensuality, like going back to the origin. I think the woman is a strong expression of beauty here on earth and when you blend the two together it is very special.”
An interesting fact about Carlito is that you truly get a sense of the respect he has for women. I too love to see women held in high regard because we are beautiful and strong. The unique energy and love that we embody is contagious from sea to sea. The offering to women that this artist contributes seems simple because, we are worth it!
