Hien is one of those wedding photographers you tell all your engaged friends about. I know that one day when someone makes an honest woman out of me, I’ll be a-knocking at his door. So you can imagine how thrilled I was when he invited me to come along to a ‘Trash the Dress’ shoot and spread my creative vibes and help with art direction. And like I could pass up the chance to watch a couple of lovely normal individual’s run amok with paint and scissors?

It all started off fairly normal and wedding like…

Then we had a change of scenery…

There was some pleading…

But it was futile. The idea of getting covered in paint and ripping apart a perfectly good wedding dress was just too delicious to pass up :)

Twas a big bunch of fun Hien. Thanks for inviting me along for the ride.

Jo is the Community Manager of RedBubble, and she actively participates in discussions and with members. I wanted to spotlight those who make RedBubble what it is, and Jo was the first to come to mind. Her official duties include managing groups, coordinating competitions, and act as liaison between the management, hosts, and community as a whole, but there is so much more to know about her. So I asked…

1. For those who don’t know you yet, what is your full name, where were you born, and where do you presently call home?

My full name? I’d have to kill you. Jo O’Brien will do just fine and I was born and bred over here in Melbourne Australia. A city I am insanely proud of and love showing visitors. You should come over- I’ll take you out for coffee!

2. Jo, what would we do without you? As one of the few Administrators lucky enough to work closely with the individuals and their creations, I imagine you see some of the best and worst of the artist… not their work, but their attitudes. Simply a member myself, I know there have been times when a VERY deep breath was required to keep my cool as the more “difficult” individuals. How do you manage to find your own peace in between bouts of chaos?

Lots of red wine.

But seriously, I just take the perspective that deep down everyone is trying to do the right thing by themselves and by each other. Communicating online is a learned skill. In text it’s easier to exaggerate or give the wrong impression by accident. I just approach people believing that they want to do the right thing, be a great artist, and get on with life; and that perhaps they might like to find out some other ways to make the most of the situation.

3. I know that you are also an amazing artist both first hand and because it would take one to want to work with so many. Modesty aside, what do you think to be your most inborn gift of the eye, and how do you use it to change the way others see the art world as a whole?

I’ve always had a fascination with shocking people, probably since I ate my own snot in primary school to disgust the other children. ‘Shock’ translates really well into art, and it’s not all bad. A small shock adds interest and tension, a larger shock forces people to think, an even bigger shock hits straight to your gut reaction. As artists and writers, we have the ability to stir people into thinking about something, or feeling something, or just being interested. Something that makes you want to change, or hide or scream. I challenge artists to play with layers of shock and prove that art can be pretty and meaningful and painful all at the same time.

4. If you could change one thing in this world before you leave it behind, what would it be?

This is getting very philosophical! I guess I’d want to change our collective attitude towards the concept of “valuable.” I’d want people to appreciate what they have and be more generous of their time and thoughts. To spend quality time doing things that enrich their lives and help others.

5. Should you be one of the few lucky ones to have their names written in history for contributions to the art world, how would you (posthumously, I suppose) feel about this? Also, if this were to occur, in one or two sentences, what would you most want your own “famous quote” to be (the one children will include in their research papers)?

I’d be wrapped. What better compliment than for your art to outlive you and go on to mean something to people you never knew who live in a time you never experience? As for a quote… “Anything can be art, but my art is better than yours” I’ll be dead. So it’s the perfect chance to be controversial and egotistical. And even better, it will be too late to argue with me about it!

6. What is the worst thing you’ve ever had stolen from you (concrete or abstract)?

I was going to say my privacy and sanity, but then I realized I gave those away of my own free will! Silly Jo.

If you had to select a favorite meal comprised of three separate foods, what would they be (liquids or solids… no gasses)?

Sausages, mashed potato and baked beans. It’s my all time favourite meal. I could live off it. (apologies the the vegetarians)

Finally, and be honest, is there one writer/artist in history who you simply cannot stand? Why?

Shakespeare. This is the result of simple teenage rebellion. They made us study him at school year after year and my mum thinks he’s the next best thing to sliced bread… so naturally I can’t stand him :)

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Interview by Gordon M Justice
http://www.redbubble.com/people/sleightflow

I always love the chance to shoot an event and recently a very talented photographer friend of mine, Adrian Carmody, invited me along to shoot band The Blow Waves at a Midsumma gig.

Here is the full gallery

The nature of modeling for photographers and artists puts you in a vulnerable position. For a length of time you will be in close proximity to an individual you may not know very well and in unfamiliar or isolated environments. For the first time model, or even an experienced model, a job offer can be very exciting. But first, take a few minutes to think about your safety.

^{Put your best foot forward – Jo O’Brien}

Your Online Identity
While the vast majority of people you meet online are perfectly normal, lovely people such as yourself, there are a few people who are unstable or dangerous. To reduce your chances of ever encountering a shady character, prevention is the best solution. Be aware of the images you publish of yourself. They should look professional and unless you are seeking work in the adult industry, should not be overly sexual. While details like your measurements and colouring may be required, personal details or contact details should be hidden.

Contact Details
Don’t use your real name online, and don’t publish your telephone number or an email address where possible. There are easy to use forms you can add to your website that will allow interested parties to contact you without publishing your email address. Where an email address must be supplied, it is a good idea to set up a secondary one using a free site like hotmail, gmail or yahoo especially for this purpose. The only place you should ever need to supply a physical address is on a model release form on the day of the shoot. Where possible use a P.O Box address or the address of a family member (with permission). Always give out your mobile number instead of a land line number and let the photographer know you do not answer calls if you do not recognise the number.

^{Behind the scenes – Skyrocket Fights Clip – ARPhotography}

Find Out About The Photographer Or Artist
Before you agree to work with a photographer or artist there are some simple checks you can do to help you verify if they are professional and trustworthy. The first is to ask for a full physical address and telephone number where they can be contacted. Ask to see samples of their work and ask some general questions about how they like to work. Ask for referees from other models they have used and take the time to call a couple of people and ask them about how their shoot/session went. If the photographer or artist is reluctant to hand over such information, you should reconsider working with them. A professional will be happy to offer you these details. At this stage you should also be weary of overly optimistic promises about your modeling career or unusually high pay rates which could indicate a scam. Also be aware that TFP (Time for Prints/Photos) and particularly low pay may indicate an amature photographer. Be aware that there are scam artists who ask models to pay for services that are never fulfilled.

Know What Is Expected Of You
Before you agree to a shoot or session, discuss the artist’s ideas and make sure you fully understand what is required of you. In particular ask about what you will be wearing (or not wearing) and the kind of tone or theme they are hoping to achieve. Who will be doing your hair and make up. Ask to see reference shots or sketches or see examples of what they are hoping to replicate. If you feel that they are not answering you fully, it is a good idea to clarify, even if you feel you are asking the obvious. For example say “I don’t understand exactly what you’re saying- do you mean that there will be nudity involved?” or “It sounds like this is pornographic work- am I right?” By being blunt and showing that you are not afraid to ask, it will encourage the artist to explain clearly what they want from you. Now is also a good time to ask if they will be shooting digital and if you will be able to see a few images during the shoot as you proceed.

^{Shoot the model – Michael Alesich}

How To Say No
At this point you may decide that you do not want to proceed. No matter how much time and effort the photographer or artist has gone to at this point, or how much they insist that they want you, your rights, safety and professional reputation come first. Be polite but firm. Do not get into a lengthy discussion. A response such as “Thank you for your interest and for taking the time to discuss this project with me. Unfortunately it is not a project I wish to do (at this time). Thank you again for your interest” should be sufficient.

Traveling and Accomodation
Where possible arrange your own transport, the best option being a friend who will drive you and wait for the shoot to be completed before taking you home again. Do not accept offers to be collected from your home or work. If you need to stay overnight, arrange to have your own hotel room, ensure your room is booked under your name and check it before your departure. Never ever ever stay at the private residence of someone you do not know very well. When away from home travel by taxi.

^{The Movie Set – Michael Alesich}

Meeting the Photographer or Artist
Meet new photographers for the first time in a neutral public location. Never in a private residence or studio. The best meeting places are known to you both but neither of you have any special attachments or familiarity with it. In an instance where you want to avoid this person in the future, you do not want them to know your favorite cafe or hang out. Be suspicious if the location of a meet up or shoot changes shortly before meeting. This is one way that untrustworthy people attempt to get models alone where their friends and family do not know where they are. A photographer should have previously scouted a location and be able to give an address or map reference. In isolated areas, always bring a chaperone.

Just Prior to a Shoot or Session
To ensure your safety, contact the photographer or artist and confirm the time, duration and place of the shoot. Even if you are bringing a chaperone, tell someone else who is not coming with you where you will be and for how long. Ask them to have their mobile switched on during your shoot. Some models wisely arrange a ‘silent alarm.’ For example you might arrange for this person to call you mid shoot and ask you what you are doing later on. If you answer “I’m having a quiet one with friends” they will know everything is good, if you say “my boyfriend is taking me to dinner” they will know you are nervous and if you say “I’m going out with my friends to party” that you need them to act to get you out of there. You should never need to complete a model release form before the day of a shoot but it is a good idea to read through a copy of it and understand it or arrange to use your own version.

^{Working for the Man by Melissa Vowell}

During The Shoot or Session
There is certain professional etiquette that is expected of all parties at a photo shoot. Don’t be convinced to pose in a way that you are unsure of or uncomfortable in. If you are asked to do something you are unsure of it is perfectly acceptable to say you do not want to. One tip is to bring along your own happy snap digital camera. If you are asked to do something you are not sure of, hand the photographer your camera and ask them to take one or two shots and show you first. Then you can check them before proceeding. In the days of digital, is is fairly reasonable on small shoots to ask to flick through the images briefly during a break or at the end of the shoot. If you have brought a chaperone, ensure they are not disruptive to the shoot with the obvious exception being if they see anything below board. Apologize for the inconvenience but leave your mobile phone switched on.

After The Shoot
Model release forms should always be completed after the shoot, often on the same day or when you have viewed and approved the proofs or contact sheet. Never sign anything you do not understand. Some models who represent themselves bring along their own model release form which they know and understand well. Once the shoot is completed, within earshot of the photographer, it is a good move to call a friend and let them know you are leaving and how long until you get home.

^{Lorne ‘07 – Happy Snapping – James Price}

What to do if you are Harassed or Stalked?
The first thing to do is tell someone else about it- your friends and family. When you are stressed, having these people to support you will make a lot of difference to your ability to think clearly and make assertive decisions. If the person is sending you letters, emails, text messages or any other correspondence it is important that you keep it even if it is upsetting. The general advice given by police is not to feed the harasser by reacting, instead ignoring their attempts to upset you. If after a couple of weeks they have not relented or they make a serious threat against you, you should call your local police and seek advice and support. Many people are reluctant to bring the police into these sorts of matters however it is the only real way to help prevent other people falling victim and your testimony may be the case winner for another person who has already suffered the same as you.

All this information sounds very pessimistic and negative and I really wish their was no need for it. The reality is that most photographers and artists are above board, professional and generally lovely to work with, but the tiny minority create enough horror stories and bad press that it’s important to know the risks. In all situations my best advice to you is to use your common sense, and trust any negative gut instincts you have about people. Your safety is far more important than any career opportunity and any amount of popularity or validation.

^{Lights Camera Action by Jo O’Brien}

I recently wrote a little piece on the Back Alley Atelier Exhibition and sent it to the local paper (as you do).

Well… The Moreland Leader has decided it’s newspaper worthy and it will be going to print. Yay!

Three stunning, beautiful, smart, sassy women were doing their usual ranting and yacking in the forums when it was decided (by who I am still not sure) that MissKristy, Melissa Vowel and I would style a photoshoot to do the day Melissa stepped foot in Melbourne for the Lorne weekender. LisaG already had a friday night out planned so we’d have to duck out for a few minutes to do it.

Melissa not only had to face a bunch of total stangers, we were asking her to parade around on a main road in fishnets with us. MissKristy just wanted to wear her really cool hat. All three of us nagged at Mark German to be our photographer (didn’t take much convincing really)

And then in the middle of the night in the middle of Acland Street, St Kilda, we raced through the fastest phtoshoot I think I’ve seen. Two minutes and it was over. But Mark is somewhat of a genius and has created a very cool image…

You guys rock. I had such a good time.

Today Helen McLean and I met up to take some photos at her place. That was until we had a streak of craziness and decided to uproot the whole shoot and head into the city. You certainly get some strange looks when you lug around a red armchair on a saturday afternoon amidst hundreds of city goers.

Anyway, Helen is slowly getting through all the post production and as each shot goes up I’ll add it to this entry rather than clogging everyone’s activity monitors. Until I get the files via CD later this week, I’m just posting the low res versions.

I Heart Collaborations!

Enjoy!

^{50s Mannequin}

^{Candy Man}

^{Rockabilly Diner Baby}

^{Wish You Were Here}

^{Dine In Or Take Away}

Ok…. Not quite yet…

BUT!!!

The FUNNIEST thing happened today. I was sitting in the city reading an art book (as you do!) killing time before having lunch with sjem and this nervous woman approaches me and says “Jo O’Brien?” To which I go … “um yeah, hello”

Then… get this- she asks for my autograph. I ask her why and she says “you are the Jo O’Brien who modeled for Paul Vanzella right?” I was totally utterly speechless and smiling like the biggest idiot! And going bright red. And making a total fool of myself. But yeah, I signed her tram ticket for her which made her happy. I warned her that it wouldn’t fetch much on ebay just yet :)

So yeah, I reckon that makes me famous, so now I get to have temper tantrums celebrity style and demand my coke with no ice at MacDonalds :)

As it happens, she and her husband are huge fans of Paul’s work. I’m really excited by this!

So yeah… that’s my story if you happened to be interested. I was excited and just had to share :) This totally tops being spotted on the tram or at my work by a long shot!