Stefan Lindblad - Art and Illustration

Herbie Hancock & Christina Aquilera

2012-01-29T16:36:00.001+01:00

There are those who like to be, then there are singers and then there are stars and stars for a reason.

2012-01-29T16:15:00.001+01:00

Maverick Sabre

2012-01-28T14:26:00.001+01:00

Maverick Sabre

2012-01-28T14:22:00.001+01:00

The Interview Series: Bob Friedman, CorelDRAW user & Beta Tester, runs his own family business, Pams Press Graphics in USA

2012-01-26T16:56:00.000+01:00

My Interview series now continue with Bob Friedman, CorelDRAW user & Beta Tester, runs his own family business, Pams Press Graphics in PA, USA. I interview people I have come to know through Corel forums, and who are fellow beta testers of and fellow CorelDRAW Graphics Suite users. And some of us have met in real life.

Your Name: Bob Friedman

Website: http://pamspress.com

Style & type of work you produce?

Today my main focus is Internet marketing. The products produced are web sites, interactive software development, multi media presentations and various print and television media.

You like myself is a user of CorelDRAW Graphics Suite. What was it that made you discover, and drew you to CorelDRAW Graphics Suite?

My company is/was in the television production/marketing/public relations business. I expanded to produce personalized promotional products and on demand souvenirs in amusement parks, boardwalks, fairs, etc. Using live video we placed people’s faces into famous art and/or silly pictures of body builders, etc. then created a custom souvenir like T-shirts, mugs, while they wait. I needed the technology to do this and based on talking to many people in the graphics industry I purchased both CorelDraw v6 and Photoshop v3.0. At that time I had no idea how to use this stuff and self trained by reading and playing. I am now a software junkie.

What year was it?

1995

Which Programs do you use, Corel and none-Corel programs?

Currently I use many software packages. CorelDraw, Photoshop, Director, Flash, Dreamweaver, Sony Vegas Pro, Boris FX, Lightroom, Fireworks to name a few.

Do you use any analog tools in conjuntion with your work?

Not any more. Used to use it for video editing but now are fully digital.

Which year was it you started your business, your work?

I started working for myself in 1974 after graduating college.

Would you recomend CorelDRAW Graphics Suite?

CorelDraw is my main preliminary design program and I would recommend it.

What, more importantly, made you begin working with the work you do today? After all you could have made a career as a hairdresser or something in that line instead, like any other human being.

Originally I spent my first working 15 years in business law on the corporate level in NYC. At that point I had enough with all the mean and greedy stuff associated with this type of work so I walked away and never looked back. Based on experience and people I knew I opened a production operation (KO Productions) and produced both FFKA and ESPN Full Contact Karate for both prime time television in the domestic footprint and syndicated these shows to 144 foreign countries. I produced and taped live events from San Jose, Calif. to Amsterdam. My shows ran prime time from 1986 to 1992 I also served as chairman of the board of the FFKA (Full contact Karate Association) thus creating an International ranking association. As a fun hobby and stress reliever I have been in the martial arts for over 30 years.

In 1996 my focus went to the Internet.

What is that you like with your work?

EVERY THING. Work must be (and is for me) a fun adventure full of challenges. I also have been testing software for years and as a result met load of super nice folks from around the world. Testing allows me to learn the new stuff and contribute to making the tools better.

In an interview in the Digital Artist Magazine, who interviewed me a few years back, I was asked what I would like to see in future versions of CorelDRAW Graphics Suite. Is there anything you would like to see?

Keep it bug free and up to date with the latest innovations.

Do you drink coffee or tea in the morning?

Yes, lots of coffee.

What do you think is important to think about running your own business or in your line of work, to think about. Is it discipline or and something else?

The most important thing is to stay on top of everything and provide your accounts with 100% personal service. Always listen, always learn and be prepared to work day and night. Stay away from negative people.

For someone just starting out, what do you think they should think about?

Having fun and winning. Investigate and learn all you can. I suggest you first get a job in that type of work so you learn hands on and make your elementary mistakes at the expense of others. Always keep you mind wide open and never stop learning. Most important do not let anyone discourage you.

Is there any big change in how and what you worked with when you first started out. Have the business changed in any way?

Change has been constant and if you do not adjust and bend you will break. In my working career I have made so many changes and all for the good. You only live once so enjoy and explore, time is short.

Thank you Bob, a true pleasure as always to talk with you.

Stefan Lindblad
January 2012

The Interview Series: Hywel Harris, CorelDRAW user & Beta Tester, runs his own company, Lady Bay Art Glass, with partner Michelene Harris, in Nottingham, England

2012-01-25T16:57:00.002+01:00

My Interview series now continue with Hywel Harris. Hywel runs his own company, Lady Bay Art Glass, with partner Michelene Harris, in Nottingham, England. I interview people I have come to know through Corel forums, and who are fellow beta testers of and fellow CorelDRAW Graphics Suite users. And some of us have met in real life.

Your Name:

Hywel Harris

Website:
www.ladybayartglass.co.uk

Style & type of work you produce?

We design and make traditional stained glass leaded lights for doors and windows. We specialise in recreating designs for period houses from the Victorian era through to the Second World War.

Click to view Large image

You like myself is a user of CorelDRAW Graphics Suite. What was it that made you discover, and drew you to CorelDRAW Graphics Suite?

Before I set up my company, where I worked previously, I was able to try out a number of drawing apps including Freehand, Harvard Graphics, Illustrator, and a few others. It was very obvious to me at the time that Draw was much better suited to the semi-technical type illustrations that I needed.

What year was it?

1992/3

Which Programs do you use, Corel and none-Corel programs?

I use Photoshop, ThumbsPlus, Dreamweaver (I built and manage my own website), Open Office,

Do you use any analog tools in conjuntion with your work?

Yes loads, hammers (very analogue !) glass cutters, grinders, you get the idea...

Which year was it you started your business, your work?

1993

Click to view Large image

Would you recomend CorelDRAW Graphics Suite?

Yes I would. I find it very easy to get along with for my sort of work. It is very precise and easy to be so. For me the ability to have many levels of guidelines for setting out a design is unsurpassed, and quick and easy to setup as well. Other tools like clones are invaluable when doing a drawing that has symmetry. Other apps are much more time consuming, both because they don't have the tools or they make them difficult to use. CorelDraw is especially good at allowing the user to customise the UI so that tools are only a click away.

What, more importantly, made you begin working with the work you do today? After all you could have made a career as a hairdresser or something in that line instead, like any other human being.

I have always had an interest in old houses and have done a lot of work restoring ours. One aspect of English period building from about 1880 to 1940 was that a huge amount of decorative glass work was incorporated into the fabric of even the most modest of houses. When I was made redundant in 1993 (I used to be a mining engineer) I could see that there was no one who specialised in domestic period glass design, and in our area there are thousands of houses that have or had decorative glass when they were built. Others were able to do repairs, design ecclesiastical stained glass, but no one had a big portfolio of domestic designs. I set about photographing all the original examples for miles around and from that developed an eye for period detail and layout.

What is that you like with your work?

Creating something that will give pleasure for many decades to come.

In an interview in the Digital Artist Magazine, who interviewed me a few years back, I was asked what I would like to see in future versions of CorelDRAW Graphics Suite. Is there anything you would like to see?

For all designers who create lineart drawings as the starting point for artwork, the route to applying colour is awkward. Other apps have developed ways round this, albeit slightly clumsily, but I think the biggest single leap in functionality would be an automatic and dynamic CCCFER. (An acronym coined by artist K N Pepper a few years ago, Create Closed Curves From Enclosed Regions). In essence a tool that allows colour to be applied the the spaces between open lines or curves.

Do you drink coffee or tea in the morning?

Coffee. Tea in the afternoon.

What do you think is important to think about running your own business or in your line of work, to think about. Is it discipline or and something else?

Don't neglect the work that doesn't bring in an income directly. Like keeping a website or portfolio up to date. Making time to go and get photographs of interesting old glass. Make time to look at what other artists and craftsmen are making. Making sure you have a full knowledge of all the material types that are available, ie glass colours and textures.

Click to view Large image

For someone just starting out, what do you think they should think about?

Ooh... difficult. Don't do it unless you really love it. You have to be prepared to work for very little when you start out and if you don't love what you do it will turn into a chore.

Is there any big change in how and what you worked with when you first started out. Have the business changed in any way?

The construction has and always will be the same traditional process, every glass piece has to be cut by hand and assembled into a lead lattice, soldered, cemented and cleaned. Modern technology has little impact on this. The ability to create very accurate designs and print them in colour on a 36” paper roll has saved many hours of work.

When I started I was using an A3 pen plotter and sticking pieces of paper together but I now have two HP Designjets which are 15 years old but still going strong. The business side of things has changed little.

Recessions seem to have little impact and this has given me confidence to take my son on as an apprentice. He has been learning the practical side until very recently when I gave him some design projects to work in with CorelDraw, an app he has never used before, though he is very computer savvy. Within a matter of days he has grasped the basics and is able do manual traces and create illustrations from scratch.

Thank you Hywel, a pure pleasure to have you in the interview series.

Really nice to hear from someone who uses CorelDRAW for work on glass. Shows the broad user base no doubt.

Stefan Lindblad

January 2012

The Interview Series: Jeff Harrison, CorelDRAW Graphics Suite user & Beta Tester from Canada, country of Corel

2012-01-25T13:14:00.003+01:00

My Interview series now continues with Jeff Harrison who runs his own business "Macromonster", etcetera in Canada, country of Corel. I interview people I have come to know through Corel forums, and who are fellow beta testers of and fellow CorelDRAW Graphics Suite users. And some of us have met in real life.

Your Name: Jeff Harrison

Websites:

- http://macromonster.com
- http://coreldraw.com/media/g/jeff/default.aspx
- http://www.youtube.com/user/macromonster

- http://jeff-harrison.unleash.com/

Style & type of work you produce?

CorelDRAW Macros, print pieces, signs, web sites, videos, 3D renderings

We are both users of CorelDRAW Graphics Suite. What was it that made you discover, and drew you to CorelDRAW Graphics Suite?

I enjoyed the logical interface and functionality. When starting my business, I tried the demos for Quark Express and Pagemaker, popular programs at that time. Both seemed very sparse with features, and the price was mysteriously much higher for the both of them.

CorelDRAW seemed more sensible in every way. It felt very intuitive to use. Even if I didn't understand all the features yet, at least I could see that there were more available.

What year did you first see CorelDRAW?

I first saw CorelDRAW 3.0 in 1995. It was being used in a shop as the design software for a vinyl cutting operation.

Which year was it that you'd started your business?

1998.

Would you recommend CorelDRAW Graphics Suite?

Of course. :-)

What is that you like with your work?

I think many people that use CorelDRAW are often a combination no-nonsense business people who have creative leanings, specifically in a commercial capacity. CorelDRAW has helped me earn a reasonable living, and it's a pleasant environment to work within.

In an interview in the Digital Artist Magazine, who interviewed me a few years back, I was asked what I would like to see in future versions of CorelDRAW Graphics Suite. Is there anything you would like to see?

Many of the things I'd like to see as features are now macros that we create at http://macromonster.com

Corel made this possible by licensing VBA & VSTA from Microsoft. Before that, CorelScript was used for scripting, which is still used in Corel Photo-PAINT.

From Corel developers, I hope to see both speed and reliability when working with text and complex layouts. Fail-safe industrial dependability would be highly beneficial. That way, all levels of users can trust it to just work; all day... every day.

Beyond that, the easiest thing any software company can do is periodically check out the competitors and what they're including for features in their latest releases.

Many of Corel's competitors have borrowed/stolen ideas from CorelDRAW over the last 15 years. Corel should check out the top 5 competing products annually and develop equivalent features where necessary. Then add a couple new features no one else has ever seen before.

I hope Corel has a formidable policy to prevent industrial espionage. If they don't, then they need to develop some technology, ideas, and vision worth protecting through such a policy.

Do you drink coffee or tea in the morning?

Coffee. But nothing very fancy like the exotic coffees you enjoy, Stefan. :-D

Haha, currently Jeff I am drinking Italien coffee roaster label Molinari, Espresso Oro. Not overly exotic - but its Italian! :-) , I dont like coffee with oddities such as vanilla and cardemum, but a coffee with a cardemum bun, Swedish Style, is a winner!

What do you think is important to think about running your own business or in your line of work? Is it discipline or and something else?

Discipline is only required for the mundane components of running a business. The reason is that it's easy to get drawn into the fun parts such as the creative and experimental moments; those happen by themselves.

If someone isn't sales or profit oriented, getting into business may be an ideological or ethical battle for them. There's a toxic, leeching undertone developing across most developed nations that suggests capitalism is a tainted, exploitative concept in general.

However, when we look up and down our streets, practically all people - from all walks of life - earn a living by serving others, for a profit. Unfortunately, those who are successful in business are often envied today, as opposed to being admired.

Hopefully people are getting into a business because they see an opportunity to fill a need in the community, and that they enjoy the work. The money comes later. However, one does not need to wait months or years in order to turn a profit. The great thing about the flexibility of CorelDRAW and Photo-PAINT is that learning them is springboard to a variety of potential services they can sell, relatively quickly, and for a small capital investment.

For someone just starting out, what do you think they should think about?
Some people try to depend on their personalities or social connections to win customers, and that can work initially. However, consistent performance and measurable results are more effective in retaining clients over the long term.

Is there any big change in how and what you worked with when you first started out. Has the business changed in any way?
Actually, not too much. The biggest changes could be that the processing power of our PC's is enormously faster and more capable now. I not convinced that software has improved in an equivalent fashion.

The economy (primarily in the US and some Euro nations) is shaky at the moment due to uncertainty with taxation, regulations, and foreboding public debt. Some consumers have been tentative at parting with their dollars. They’ve become highly selective through product research and careful consideration. This sharpens the marketplace.

The good news? There are emerging nations on the globe which are doing very well with economic growth, excited to embrace the very system that allowed the G7 nations to prosper during the last 150 years.

Due to the internet, the globe has dramatically shrunk over the last decade. Friends and customers can be found across almost all borders. This means enormous opportunity for individuals who refuse to buy into "the sky is constantly falling" mindset. They ignore the naysayers and simply make things happen. They are the opposite of those who basically wait around for something miraculous to happen in their life, without a logical reason for it to take place.

Thomas Jefferson wrote: "there is a natural aristocracy among men. The grounds of this are virtue and talents."

I agree with that, since regardless of a person's ancestry, gender, or ANY identifiable factor, it's up to each of us to make the most of our own lives under the circumstances we live in. At age 18, each of us chooses to look into our futures with either enthusiasm - or fear.

Priorities and perception are easy to condense when anyone who reads this does a self-assessment. Do you have a computer, electricity, and plumbing? Most people alive don't, so you're already very successful! :-D

So as we sit down today, looking at CorelDRAW or Photo-PAINT... be thankful that they exist in any capacity. Take a moment to reflect on why they exist. If the globe is some kind of Petri dish, there's something special happening in one portion of it... individual freedom. In a relatively tiny sliver of time over the entire span of human existence, each of us can make our dreams come true based on talents, attitude and tenacity.

So, let’s all make something great with Corel Products today!

Thank you Jeff!
Yes lets create something great today!

Stefan lindblad
January 2012

The Interview Series: Silvio Win ( Silvio Gomes ) - in Santos, Brazil. CorelDRAW Graphics Suite user & Beta Tester

2012-01-25T10:50:00.001+01:00

My Interview series now continues with Silvio Gomes who is also called Silvio Win, who runs his own business "Win Multimedia, Publicade e Artes Gráficas" in Santos, Brazil. I interview people I have come to know through Corel forums, and who are fellow beta testers of and fellow CorelDRAW Graphics Suite users. And some of us have met in real life.

Your Name:
Silvio Gomes (Silvio Win)

Website:
http://www.winmultimidia.com.br

Style & type of work you produce?
Graphic arts in general, such as creating and developing brochures, folders, small newspapers for business information, creation of logos, banners, packaging, ads for newspapers and magazines, etc.

I worked as art director at advertising agencies. Once day I was visited by a representative of an outsourced Graphics Bureau that showed me the advantages of producing eletronic arts. That was the day I met CorelDRAW 3. Since then I was not calmed until buy my first PC and get into "this marvel of modern technology." Gradually, by myself, I learned how to work with "the thing" and never stopped.

What year was it?
I do not remember the exact year, but was in the early 90'.

Which Programs do you use, Corel and none-Corel programs?
The main tool is the CorelDRAW Graphics Suite, but also Adobe Photoshop C5 (although in most cases I prefer Photoshop 6 – It is "lighter" in addition to being faster than the latest versions, and addresses the needs of the most common tasks).

Do you use any analogue tools in conjunction with your work?
I miss using pencil, eraser, pens, paintbrush, ruler, square...

Because the habit of the mouse, my hand movements became “heavy and hard”. When I need to draw by hand, to scan an image and finishing using softwares, is that I realize how technology can destroy the ability of artists and the naturalness of their work.

Which year was it you started your business, your work?
I started as a designer in a graphics printing company, in 1976. In 1980 I started working in advertising agencies, when I became acquainted with others medias. I was editor of advertisements, layoutman, created and directed some advertising films for TV and radio spots. In recent years I have devoted myself to working as a freelance in a home office (Soho), and two years ago I manage the marketing area for a business automation company.

Would you recommend CorelDRAW Graphics Suite?
Absolutely. I have not been introduced to any other software that can solve my tasks so efficiently and quickly as CorelDRAW. I'm a big fan of the Suite and some friends, in jest, usually say that I “breathe CorelDRAW all day long”.

What, more importantly, made you begin working with the work you do today? After all you could have made a career as a hairdresser or something in that line instead, like any other human being.
Since I was a child, all kinds of drawing and painting drew my special attention. I needed to understand how "that thing" could be done. As a teenager I worked as a clerk in some offices, but whenever I faced a pencil and a blank sheet of paper, there I was drafting "my arts". The few I know today is the result of my willingness and interest by the profession, which I learned by myself over the years. And I hope to learn much more...

What is that you like with your work?
I like the process of creation and the task of doing itself. I am delighted at this stage, especially when meeting untried solutions. But, so incredible as it may sound, I do not like any of my works when they are already done. The feeling is that I could have made them better. The day I say to myself "here is my masterpiece", it is time to be retired.

In an interview in the Digital Artist Magazine, who interviewed me a few years back, I was asked what I would like to see in future versions of CorelDRAW Graphics Suite. Is there anything you would like to see?
Like any software CorelDRAW Suite is not perfect either. The resources that the Suite offers are enough to develop excellent works. I particularly prefer that existing resources should be improved and more stable instead new tools. There must be a limit. From a practical standpoint, nowadays people "need not be an artist" to produce an almost professional art. Simply having good sense of layout organization and harmonization of contents, softwares can solve "the hardest tasks."

Do you drink coffee or tea in the morning?
As I am a typical Brazilian, answer to this question is easy: coffee all day long! Tea just for summer, very cold, with ice cubes in the glass and some drops of lemon juice.

What do you think is important to think about running your own business or in your line of work, to think about. Is it discipline or and something else?
For all professional business, and for practical life, discipline is essential. I remember the first day when I started working at home. I called my family and said: "You see me here but I'm not at home. I'm at the office..."

The comforts of home can be both a great ally or an enemy of your business. To differentiate when you are "at home" and when you are "at office" is crucial. Luckily, my family respects and understands the my different moments of the day.

For someone just starting out, what do you think they should think about?
First of all, make sure if that is even the profession they want to adopt. Try any profession only for its eventual "glamour" is not recommended. Sometimes I thought I should be an airplane pilot because it is a great profession. Luck of the passengers, I have any talent for it.

Is there any big change in how and what you worked with when you first started out. Have the business changed in any way?
Yes. I'm 59 years old and when I started, 36 years ago, the jobs I do today were more difficult and consuming longer time to be completed. The advent of computers technology, no doubt, was a great jump in this area of business, but is killing romanticism and naturalness of the graphic artists.

Thank you Silvio, as always a pleasure talking wiht you!

Stefan Lindblad
January 2012
Copyright Silvio Gomes & Stefan Lindblad

SOPA and respecting all people

2012-01-20T10:18:00.001+01:00

Allthough I as an artist and illustrator like to be respected by those who use my images unlawfully. And still need to pay my rent, eat and simply live buy earning a living on my work, as illustrator, graphic designer and artist. There has to be an end to madness.

SOPA, the bill american interest groups & companies and some politicians try to enforce can only damage more than it help, well thats my gut feeling anyway. And we certainly have our share of these in Sweden, Europe too. Its not only happening in America.

I am myself a member of the Association f Swedish Illustrators & Graphic Designers “Svenska Tecknare.”

But…

If I runned a forum for illustrators who used it as discussion forum (which I dont I may add) about illustration, and one or more illustrators on the forum linked to a movie, and myself and others didnt know it was an illegal link, or I just missed the link being attached in the forum in a post and thread among maybe thousands of topics, then I running the forum could be charged for supplying illegal use of intellectual property.

Thats just insane,

Yes there will always be “collectors”, who simply cant live without collecting movies and music to their computer and harddrives. Sitting with 300 000 movies they will never see or something like that, simply because – and maybe feel the philosophical need to share it all to everyone on this planet and feeling empowered by it.

But…

Personally I still like to go to the video store with my girlfriend, look at covers for a movie to rent, buy some candy. Be among other human beings. Going in after work and feel the tingeling feeling of watching the movie. To me its more fun than sitting infront of my computer screen wathing torrent files dropping in on my server, and then find a movie where a russian guy have made and added to his rip of the movie his voice as a voice over to an american action movie. Which destroys the movie but give me a minute of giggle.

There will always be those who copy unlawfully because they dont like to sit and do their homework or simply because they dont care, but thats one thing, it will always excist and have alwaysed excisted. Its nothing new under the sun.

Charge those who do wrong, not those who dont know. Teach kids at schools because the grown ups are to grown up to change their ways.

Respect copyright, dont just throw blame games on big corps when even small creators are effected as well. Learn to respect and live on.

But…

Dont come throwing stupid comments about a digital copy is a copy and should be free to use because its a digitall copy. Thats just bollocks.

Grow up everyone and live a good life and help someone who needs help instead of going on about importance of sharing without even having asked beforehand if its okey or not.

Give respect to creators and dont be an ass. Enjoy life.

Stefan Lindblad

The Interview Series: Alan drury at Alan Drury Signwriting in England. Beta tester & CorelDRAW Graphics Suite user.

2012-01-19T19:48:00.000+01:00

My Interview series now continues with Alan Drury who runs his own business "Alan Drury Signwriting" in LIttle Chesterford, Essex, England. I interview people I have come to know through Corel forums, and who are fellow beta testers of and fellow CorelDRAW Graphics Suite users. And some of us have met in real life.

Your Name:
Alan Drury

Website:
www.adsignwriting.co.uk

Style & type of work you produce?

Mainly vinyl lettering for vehicles and signs, large format is output by others from my Corel Draw generated files - same applies to litho print I supply. Letterheads/Compliment slips/Cards and leaflets are printed by various tradr printers from my files

You like myself is a user of CorelDRAW Graphics Suite. What was it that made you discover , and drew you to CorelDRAW Graphics Suite?

Draw was demonstrated to me by the supplier of my sign software, they both integrated well and now Draw is the only one I use for putting together artwork for print.

What year was it?

Early nineties

Which Programs do you use, Corel and none-Corel programs?

Corel Draw, Corel PhotoPaint, Signlab, Photozoom, WYSIWYG Webbuilder, Pstill

Do you use any analog tools in conjuntion with your work?

No

Which year was it you started your business, your work?

Left school in 1974 and started work as traditional signwriter, self employed but sub contracting in1979, on my own 1980 ish

Would you recomend CorelDRAW Graphics Suite?

Yes, absolutely for the type of work I do I wouldn't want to be without it.

What, more importantly, made you begin working with the work you do today? After all you could have made a career as a hairdresser or something in that line instead, like any other human being.

I saw a van being signwritten (by hand) when I was about 11 years old and I was fascinated by it, from that day on that's what I wanted to do, computers give me the same interest

What is that you like with your work?

The variety, I even enjoy sorting problem files which others send me

In an interview in the Digital Artist Magazine, who interviewed me a few years back, I was asked what I would like to see in future versions of CorelDRAW Graphics Suite. Is there anything you would like to see?

Speaking with my signmakers' hat on I would like to see more vector tools in general and things like extrude made more plotter friendly

Do you drink coffee or tea in the morning? Coffee, normally instant (sorry Stefan)

It´s BRUTAL Alan, but I kind of have to live with this revelation, I just gotta... Oh, man. But if I made a visit I would accept it :-) - or tea, after all you live in england. And I am a tea drinker as well.

What do you think is important to think about running your own business or in your line of work, to think about. Is it discipline or and something else?

Certainly discipline especially working from home (its very easy to be distracted and go for another coffee:) but also to provide a service to the customer with a good product at the right price.

For someone just starting out, what do you think they should think about?

As above, service, product. price. Keep tabs on cash flow and make sure suppliers are giving you the service you require.

Is there any big change in how and what you worked with when you first started out. Have the business changed in any way?

My business has completely changed, I started working with only a paint brush, palette and mahl stick to rest my hand on, I could spend a couple of days in a workshop/barn signwriting a van, now everything is vinyl or and digital print and because of computers I now supply printed garments, business stationery, build simple websites and host them and I'm a registrar with Nominet here in the UK so I can supply .uk domain names directly. Core business is still vehicles and signs though.

Thanks Alan, as always nice to talk with you.

Stefan Lindblad
January 2012

The Interview Series: Myself Stefan Lindblad, Illustrator, Artist & Graphic Designer

2012-01-18T16:48:00.004+01:00

My Interview series continues with my self while waiting for the new interviews to come in. And simply because I too is a Beta tester, and I liked to present myself as well. Why not! I interview people I have come to know through Corel forums, and who are fellow beta testers of and fellow CorelDRAW Graphics Suite users. And some of us have met in real life. This time its myself.

Your Name: Myself - Stefan Lindblad

Website: www.canvas.nu, as well as www.stefanlindblad.com, the two blogs.

Style & type of work you produce?
Many of my clients are book publishers, advertizing agency´s, magazines and companies in general. I work freelance as a self employed company.

I work with illustration in different styles, Graphic Design, layout of book covers and brochures etcetera and amongst many different image jobs, vectorizing logos. A lot of small and middle size companies contact me to create proper originals of different types of images they need as vectors, for example logos. Other times I make patter design rapports or clothing apparel patterns using CorelDRAW for clothing companies they used to send to factories for manufacturing their clothes. I could go on really. And it varies from year to year.

The most visible for most people I guess is my work for magazines and books. But I do a lot of different graphic design, layout and illustration work, have to pay the bills. And its fun with the variety. Never got it when illustrators keep on saying stick to your guns when that may mean to do only one single kind of work and style. Which is good if you get extremely famous, but most don't and they have to pay bills, and having fun at the same time. Honestly I would get bored to do only one style of work.

Being a user of CorelDRAW Graphics Suite. What was it that made me discover and choose to use CorelDRAW Graphic s Suite?
I started off trying to learn Photoshop 3.0 around 1995 or something like that. And got hold of a copy of Photoshop 5.0. Because there was a job I could apply for at a newspaper if I knew Photoshop. It was at the time I was getting more and more interested in digital media and in 1995 I just got to hear about the internet. I remember when I heard about the internet back in 1995. It was a former rather famous male Swedish fashion model Tomas S. He always had ideas on how I could make money as an artist when we met. One day in Stockholm on the street I asked him "Tomas what's up" and told me he was selling commercial to be viewed on computers via the internet. And he worked at that time at Icon Media Lab which was a HUGE internet company in Sweden when Stockholm even in American media was labelled the capital of dot com.

I didn't say anything to him, but remember how I thought "poor guy, commercial on the computer? Why would anyone like to watch a computer screen to watch commercial adds from the food store?

One year later in 1996 an American woman I met with her cousin asked me if I had an email address. I didn't, but fixed one and from there on I was basically hooked. In 1996 I played around and learnt as much as I could with Photoshop and Dreamweaver 1.0. I registered my own company in 1997. And then remembered I had asked a former co-worker if he knew of any computer graphics program to illustrate with. He said "CorelDRAW but it cost 30 000 kronor", approx. 3000 Euro´s.

I left the idea of getting it and continued struggling with Photoshop instead. Then in 1998 my girlfriend found a CorelDRAW Select edition 7.0 in a book store for 700 kronor, approx. 70 Euro on sale. I was stunned and bought it on the spot. Installed it and quickly upgraded to CorelDRAW G.Suite 10 (and of course it didnt cost 30 000 kronor...) and onwards. I got instantly hooked and loved it from the first minute. Photoshop 5.0 was horrible to work with text. And PHOTO-PAINT was already doing it way much better for text work. And of course CorelDRAW with all the vector graphics being popular I instantly worked with Both CorelDRAW and PHOTO-PAINT.

What year was it?
Between 1995 and 1998

Which Programs do I use, Corel and none-Corel programs?
I use CorelDRAW, PHOTO-PAINT, Wacom Intuos tablet, for basically most of my illustration and graphics work. Microsoft Expression Web 4.0 for all my website work, I used to use DreamWeaver but with Adobe buying Macromedia it just became so expensive so I looked elsewhere, considering I had used DW since version 1.0 it was a step for me, but Expression web is great to work with and very similar to Dreamweaver. It lacks in my view in regard to the FTP program in EW but then again, I like both Coffee Cup Free FTP and FileZilla so its fine. And then of course Open Office for Word and office work, part from my accounting program. Notepad ++ for PHP coding and I started recently with Corel Aftershot PRO, former Bibble PRO.

Do I use any analogue tools in conjunction with digital in my work?
Now I am an artist, illustrator graphic person born and bread. Its in my genes - so of course I never leave home without any of my pencils and markers and my sketchbook.

Which year was it I started my business?
I registered my company in 1997

Would I recommend CorelDRAW Graphics Suite?
Yes of course. Without hesitation. I use CorelDRAW and PHOTO-PAINT. Both are professional programs. Where Photoshop have passed PHOTO-PAINT in some areas in image editing, its equally good in my view when it comes to actually draw and Paint. And CorelDRAW is great. Remember I do ALL my graphic design, layout and vector work using it. There is never ever any work I have said I couldn't do since 1997. Anything that comes my way I have been able to handle without any direct issues.

Of course there is a transparency issue between Adobe Illustrator and CorelDRAW which is because transparency in both programs are built programming-wise different from each other. But generally nothing that hinders me in my work. Where Adobe Illustrator lets you create one-single page work, CorelDRAW let you great Multiple page layout work. To do Layout in Adobe illustrator, you have to leave the program entirely and move over to In Design - I stay put in CorelDRAW and do all my layout as well as vector graphic and illustration work.

All these programs are good programs, only they are set up differently and because Adobe are so big they never allow Adobe Illustrator or Photoshop users to open files and images form CorelDRAW and Photoshop,whilst the competition CorelDRAW and PHOTO-PAINT opens and import their files and images. That alone makes it easy for me to work with people who may work with Photoshop for example when I work with PHOTO-PAINT. Then yes Photoshop ahve a few features some like to use that are not there in PHOTO-PAINT but that goes the other way around as well.

I can seave to PSD, Photoshop files from withing PHOTO-PAINT, so there is no imment danger in working with clients who uses Photoshop.

And with Bibble PRO or Corel Aftershot PRO I can manage all my RAW, high res Tiffs or Jpegs just like any Adobe Lightroom user may do.

What, more importantly, made me begin working with the work I do today? After all I too could have made a career as a hairdresser or something in that line instead, like any other human being.
I have worked with other types of work, like the most of us. Nothing strange in that. Never like a hairdresser though. But when I took the definite step to go all alone and start my company it was this line of work that matters. After all I decided to become an artist when I was thirteen years old and had my first solo exhibition when I was 21 years old. And prior to registering my company I had already started to freelance as an illustrator off an and on.

What is that I like with your work?
I love working with others, but I also like not having a boss leaning over my shoulder. Its the freedom to create I guess. But its also hard work to become your own boss. Its a lot of pressure and every month is a new blank canvas that has to be filled with money on the bank to pay your bills. Always those two sides of a coin.

In an interview in the Digital Artist Magazine, who interviewed me a few years back, I was asked what I would like to see in future versions of CorelDRAW Graphics Suite. Is there anything you would like to see?
There is always many things I like to see, one being perspective grids, full 48 bit on all features for image editing and on Object Lenses. And a few other things. Basically the same answer like in the interview in Digital Arts Magazine.

Do I drink coffee or tea in the morning?
Coffee. Grind my own beans and place my cappuccino cup in my espresso machine while trying to open my eyes, and just add a tad of milk in the cup and then brew the coffee. Later during the day I might make a proper Cappuccino.

What do I think is important to think about running your own business or in your line of work, to think about. Is it discipline or and something else?
Go up in the morning and start to work, regardless if you work from home or at an office. Quickly take a shower, have breakfast, watch the morning news. Check emails and be disciplined. And when it is hard and everything feel down, do something inspiring. It can be to just take a coffee or lunch, but always work. Take a day to sit and reflect over where the business is going. Setting up new goals. And maybe try to learn new things. For example its very easy in my work to do what have always been done. Hence risk for fatigue and boredom. Read inspiring magazines in the arts & design. Draw and paint for fun. Maybe test a tutorial. but above all learn new and proper ways of doing things.

For example with CorelDRAW Graphics Suite X5 came a totally new Colour Management system. To me as an artist of both traditional media and digital media, its quite odd that people complain over colour management when they doesn't seem to have learn proper and correct ways of working with colour.

There is a reason for example why acrylic and oil paint labeled "studio" isn't "artist quality" if it is a professional brand. It really is. But I still see how many artists that are famous even seem to use the lesser quality at times. I don't get that.

Its like with acid free paper, there is reason to why I always only choose acid free paper to draw on.

For example when I paint large size acrylic or oil painting on canvas, and we talk above two meters and five meter and onwards in size, its very important to pick a canvas with longer fibres, because oil paint weighs a lot. And so on. Learn the craft and then go wild. Or simultaneously go wild and proper. That way you learn what's correct when you are wild and can quickly adjust when it really is needed. This rules applies for both traditional and digital media.

For someone just starting out, what do you think they should think about?
Learn your craft and your business. Contact and hire an accountant. And become a member of a proper organization in your field, go mingle and listen and learn from others. Do the ground work first and then have fun. When the tax man comes and like to see your papers and ask you to pay your taxes, you really don't like to not have money on the bank or paper not in order. You don't.

And look for new clients always. Never settle with one single or a few clients. They will come and go. Clients are not necessarily loyal. They are there to make business like you. Keep the current clients, treat them right, deliver on time and what you said you would and look for additional new clients. Broaden your horizon.

Is there any big change in how and what I worked with when I first started out. Have the business changed in any way?
In my line of work its HUGE what have happen. Remember in 1995 that year internet basically came to everyone's knowledge. Cell, mobile phones as well and computers really got affordable. And computer programs made their entrance on a broad scale. It may seem for someone in their 20´s today as 20 years is a long time, but it isn't. When you get 40 you really see how quick a year passes. I surely started noticing it when I was 25 years old + 1 day. Its really staggering.

To take an example, in 2007 my girlfriend and I when´t to Sedona, Arizona, USA, traveling around and I had to deliver work for a client just after the Christmas holidays. But I sat in Arizona, USA. On the other side of the atlantic ocean. I finished my work on my laptop and used my Wacom tablet and via the internet delivered the work on the day. That really wouldn't happen before.

Stefan Lindblad
January 2012.
Copyright Stefan Lindblad

The Interview series: Fu Tiepeng in China working as a teacher and using CorelDRAW

2012-01-17T23:05:00.001+01:00

My Interview series continues with Fu Tiepeng in China who work as a teacher in Chinas second largest City. I interview people I have come to know through Corel forums, and who are fellow beta testers of and fellow CorelDRAW Graphics Suite users. And some of us have met in real life.

Your Name: Fu Tiepeng

Website: I dont have a website

Style & type of work you produce?

I work as a teacher at a secondary vocational school. Fushun no. 2. in Fushun city, Liaoning province.

You like myself is a user of CorelDRAW Graphics Suite. What was it that made you discover, and drew you to CorelDRAW Graphics Suite?

I was 20 years old, and I was a freshman at the university. At that time I received a CD from a friend of mine containing several different computer program, and one of the programs was CorelDRAW 9.0, I instantly felt drawn to it and thought it was as a very interesting program, so I installed it on my computer.

What year was it?

1998

Which Programs do you use, Corel and none-Corel programs?

Adobe Photoshop. Photoshop CS5 have lots of new features of which some is missing in Corel Photo-Paint, such as smart fill. It really is a very useful tool, and which I use quite a lot.

Do you use any analog tools in conjunction with your work?

No, I dont feel the need for any analog tools in my work.

Which year was it you started your work?

I become a teacher in 2001. During 2009 and 2010 I runned my own small print shop.

Would you recomend CorelDRAW Graphics Suite?

Of course, absolutely.

What, more importantly, made you begin working with the work you do today? After all you could have made a career as a hairdresser or something in that line instead, like any other human being.

We have a saying in chinese tradition which says: Don't stray far from home when your parents are there. I follow that principle. Maybe its my fate I become a teacher.

What is that you like with your work?

I love my work as a teacher. It get a lot of satisfaction when I see how my students improve. Furthermore as a teacher I have the posibilty to get time for my own research. To improve my self. But a teachers salery in China is not so high, especially if you are amale teacher in a second vocational school. Therefore my income is´nt so high.

In an interview in the Digital Artist Magazine, who interviewed me a few years back, I was asked what I would like to see in future versions of CorelDRAW Graphics Suite. Is there anything you would like to see?

There is a vector feature I like to have in CorelDRAW, but I have waited for ten years now, and it doesn’t seem to happen.

Do you drink coffee or tea in the morning?

I prefer to drink tea, because tea is more clear, and tea have more aftertaste than coffee.

What do you think is important to think about running your own business or in your line of work. Is it discipline or something else?

We must first decide if we like to work as an employeed and make a career that way, or if we like to start our own company. Then if we meet difficulties along the way, we have to make proper adjustments in the right direction. In any case we can not simply give up when we get obstacles on the way, which is normal.

Again there is a chinese proverb I like: “With time and patience the leaf of the mulberry becomes satin”

Is there any big change in how and what you worked with when you first started out. Have the business changed in any way?

No not particularily. I need my own life like everyone else I guess.

Thank you!

And thank you Fu, it was a pleasure talking with you!

Stefan Lindblad
January 2012

The Interview Series: Adrian Juman, Graphic Designer in Guyana, South America

2012-01-17T12:18:00.004+01:00

My Interview series continues with Adrian Juman, Graphic Designer in Guyana, South America. Currently employed as a Creative Director. I interview people I have come to know through Corel forums, and who are fellow beta testers of and fellow CorelDRAW Graphics Suite users. And some of us have met in real life.

Your Name: Adrian Juman

Website: www.phoenixgfx.tk - Currently undergoing a redesign

Style & type of work you produce?

Well, at the moment I'm employed by one of the largest Commercial Printers here in Guyana. I head the Graphics & Prepress Department. The company focuses mainly on Print Media.

On the other side, I'm currently finalizing my business plan so I can make the move to a Freelance Designer. The reason for this is that I find myself working faster and producing better designs when I do freelance jobs than working for a company where there are a bunch of decision makers (even though I'm in charge of the Graphics Department)

QR design placed 3rd in the Advertising & Marketing Category of the 2011 Corel Int'l Design contest.

You like myself is a user of CorelDRAW Graphics Suite. What was it that made you discover , and drew you to CorelDRAW Graphics Suite?

I started Graphic Design at a very young age and used software like Macromedia Freehand, Flash and Fireworks. It was an immediate love when I stumbled across an older CorelDRAW Graphics Suite 11 disk and saw that I have more freedom when designing and learning the in's and out's weren't that difficult.

What year was it?

I believe this was in 2005 :)

Which Programs do you use, Corel and none-Corel programs?

At the moment, I use CorelDRAW X5 and for quick raster edits Corel Photo-Paint X5. Other software I use include Photoshop CS5, Lightroom, Maya, Daz 3d and Sculptris.

Do you use any analogue tools in conjunction with your work?

Analogue Tools? Well apart from pencils and paper for sketching, I do most of my mockups using a Wacom Tablet. I also use A CTP to output plates for our Offset presses and several Digital Presses.

Photo of Stabroek (Downtown Georgetown), Guyana, where Adrian can be seen walking to work. Ariel view of Stabroek, Georgetown. The architecture was influenced by the Dutch who were the first to establish colonies before the British assumed control in the 18th Century.
Photo courtesy of Mike Charles, www.wildguyana.com

Which year was it you started your business, your work?

I've been designing artwork for clients at the age of about 11. In 2007, I was employed by a commercial printer. Now, hopefully soon, I will go fulltime as a Freelancer.

Would you recommend CorelDRAW Graphics Suite?

Definitely, It the best suite of software that anyone can use.

What, more importantly, made you begin working with the work you do today? After all you could have made a career as a hairdresser or something in that line instead, like any other human being.

I studied Business Management in High School and College but always had a passion for Graphic Design. So the switch was one that I had to think about carefully. It's a move I would not regret.

What is that you like with your work?

Everything, I love creating and designing. It great to represent a client's thought through design. Using CorelDRAW Graphics Suite it's easy from the Concept of an Artwork to the final Prints. Also, I've had the privileged of working/learning from professionals like yourself and many others.

In an interview in the Digital Artist Magazine, who interviewed me a few years back, I was asked what I would like to see in future versions of CorelDRAW Graphics Suite. Is there anything you would like to see?

Yes, I would like to see development continue and blast the competition like Photoshop and Illustrator out of the race. As you know, I can't mention anything due to us signing a NDA with Corel

Do you drink coffee or tea in the morning?

Sometimes I drink Coffee, but I prefer a nice cold Banks beer or Guinness as a beverage.

What do you think is important to think about running your own business or in your line of work, to think about. Is it discipline or and something else?

Yes, discipline is a must. Also you need to enjoy working with clients (some of them can really be a pain in the @$)... most importantly, LOVE WHAT YOU ARE DOING!

For someone just starting out, what do you think they should think about?

Planning is essential, look at the industry and how they can stand out. Maybe they have a special talent like painting that they can incorporate into their designs. It's important to work in the way they feel comfortable and not try to copy/fit into a trend.

Is there any big change in how and what you worked with when you first started out. Have the business changed in any way?

Many things changed. Now it's easier to collaborate with other professionals online and via phone. With the advancement in technology and software development, everything became easier. Remember when we used a mouse instead of a Wacom? Or manually changing settings for exporting images for emails and the web?

Yes Adrian, I remember after I had bought my first Wacom Intuos 1, now using Intuos 3 looking for a 4. I bought it from my brothers company. I coulndt understand why the heck I even questioned buying it. That must be like 5-7 years ago. We have to thank the Japanese at Wacom gazillions of times. You know Wacom is pronounced "Wackom". Prolong the "a" and quick on the "ck".

Thank you Adrian for letting me interview you. A pleasure as always to talk with you.

Adrian says: "Here is a photo of a quick collage of the Side Panels of my computer (well I'm currently Airbrushing it into something else now) I'm a big Anime Fan and these panels show two of my favourite Series."

Stefan Lindblad
January 2012

The Interview Series: Jan Felber, who works with his own company as a Photograper in Germany

2012-01-16T12:43:00.003+01:00

My Interview series continues with Jan Felber , who works with his own company Felber fotografie in Germany. I interview people I have come to know through Corel forums, and who are fellow beta testers of and fellow CorelDRAW Graphics Suite users. And some of us have met in real life.

Your Name: Jan Felber

Website: www.foto-chemnitz.de

Style & type of work you produce?

Modern and creative photos in the field of weddings, industrial, panoramamic, nude and a lot more. Always looking for the perfect motive (but so far I have not found it yet).

You like myself is a user of CorelDRAW Graphics Suite. What was it that made you discover , and drew you to CorelDRAW Graphics Suite?

It was about 10 years ago. I asked my colleague for a photo-editing program. At that time I worked as an electronics technician. He said: "Yes, no problem". The next day he gave me a pirated copy of Corel Draw 9. That was the beginning.

In 2006 I started my business as a photographer and bought my first commercial version of CorelDRAW Graphics Suite X3.

Which Programs do you use, Corel and none-Corel programs?

In my usual work flow I first edit my photos with Adobe Lightroom. I always shoot in RAW-format! After working in Lightroom I retouch the pictures in Corel PHOTO-PAINT. Unfortunately PHOTO-PAINT lacks important features for a photographer. Therefore I need a variety of different Plugins, or sometimes even GIMP. Especially for panoramic photos I use "Autopano Pro" an "Autopano Tour".

(Edit note by Stefan Lindblad for those who dont know about Photo-Paint: Photo-Paint is the image editing program included in the CorelDRAW Graphics Suite. For many years the sole contender to Photoshop. Allthough Photo-Paint does have a RAW lab, 48 bit/16 bit, its perfectly okey to work with RAW 48 bit using Corel Aftershot/Bibble PRO like an Adobe Lightroom user, and from there bring images into Corel Photo-Paint. In the same way Photoshop is also used for illustration & graphics so is Corel Photo-Paint.)

Would you recommend CorelDRAW Graphics Suite?

A few years ago: Yes.
Today I would probably not. Because there is no more serious development on Corel PHOTO-PAINT. Many people do not even know of the existence of Photo-Paint - they only know CorelDraw (I work very less with this vector editing software). Adobe Photoshop is the much more professional tool for a photographer. But on the other hand, CorelDraw Graphics Suite is less expensive, and in some areas even better than the "industrial standard". Its the best alternative to Adobe!

What, more importantly, made you begin working with the work you do today? After all you could have made a career as a hairdresser or something in that line instead, like any other human being.

I started out as a electronic technician, education in it, and worked there fore some years as such. But it was boring and therefore I used the chance in 2006 to start my own business. I have learned everything autodidact in the photo-field. I turned my hobby into a profession!

What is that you like with your work?

Varied work! With each new job, a new challenge. Its not boring.

In an interview in the Digital Artist Magazine, who interviewed me a few years back, I was asked what I would like to see in future versions of CorelDRAW Graphics Suite. Is there anything you would like to see?

Development for Photo-Paint! Currently it looks like Corel want to bury Photo-Paint and replace it with Paint Shop Pro.

Do you drink coffee or tea in the morning?

Yes (If possible, my morning starts at 11 am). A spoonful of instant coffee in a coup with 50% water, 50% milk and a little bit caramel syrup.

That sounds brutal to me! Jan, instant coffee cant be considered coffee even ;-) But I forgive you... My brother tried to convince me that instant coffee was the thing. I called him barbarian, any comments to that ;-)

Thank you for your forgiveness! Everyone knows that we Germans are brutal barbarians ;-)
Seriously, I use only the good Nescafe. And there are much more coffee flavours in the instant coffee - more than in yours - because they use very high temperatures and pressure to extract all the good things from the coffee beans while production. So believe me, your brother is right...

Haha, no Jan, my brother right? Scary thought...

What do you think is important to think about running your own business or in your line of work, to think about. Is it discipline or and something else?

The most important thing is motivation. If you work with fun, the rest comes by itself.

Jan Felber in action

For someone just starting out, what do you think they should think about?

One should have lot of patience. In the beginning it can be that you will not earn much money! A good website (advertising) is very important.

Is there any big change in how and what you worked with when you first started out. Have the business changed in any way?

Initially I made every job I got. Now I specialize in business photography and can select the best job.

Thank you Jan!

You're welcome.

Stefan Lindblad, januari 2012
Copyright Jan Felber & Stefan Lindblad

The Interview Series: Roy Reed, London, England. Owner of & work with his company ReedDesign

2012-01-15T23:57:00.005+01:00

My Interview series continues with Roy Reed, who works with his own company ReedDesign in Clapham, London, England. I interview people I have come to know through Corel forums, and who are fellow beta testers of and fellow CorelDRAW users. And some of us have met in real life.

Your Name: Roy Reed

Website: reeddesign.co.uk

Style & type of work you produce?
I' m freelance website designer and have been for 16 years. A long time ago I used to work just as a landscape and architectural photographer and I still do some photography (particularly animated 360° panoramas) for websites that I'm working on. In between working as a photographer and a website designer I had my own audio-visual production company making programmes for museums and exhibitions for which we won several awards.

You like myself are a user of CorelDRAW Graphics Suite. What was it that made you discover , and drew you to CorelDRAW Graphics Suite?
I've been using CorelDRAW since version 3. I first started using it to produce graphics for the audio-visual programmes I was making in the early 1990s. At the time it would have been a toss-up between CorelDRAW, Freehand or Illustrator. I saw them all being demonstrated at a trade show and decided that CD looked like the best package - especially as it included PhotoPaint which in those days was as good as Photoshop.

What year was it?
1992

Which Programs do you use, Corel and non-Corel programs?
The programs that I use every day are HomeSite for website coding and PhotoPaint for website design and layout. HomeSite's no longer in production since it was killed off when Adobe took over Macromedia, but it's still the best code interface for HTML and CSS.

I also use Lightroom (I shoot all my photos RAW ), and PTGui and Pano2VR for stitching and creating 360° panoramas and then all usual office stuff.

Do you use any analog tools in conjunction with your work?
Not any more, and I haven't for some years. And I don't miss it at all.

Which year was it you started your business, your work?
I started as a photographer in 1976 and my current work as a website designer in 1997

Would you recommend CorelDRAW Graphics Suite?
Yes, but it wouldn't be as warm a recommendation as it would have been a few years ago. The DRAW part of the package is still very good, but it's not something that I use on a daily basis. Unfortunately PhotoPaint has gone from being a serious rival to Photoshop (and a bargain in comparison) to being very much second best.

What, more importantly, made you begin working with the work you do today? After all you could have made a career as a hairdresser or something in that line instead, like any other human being.
Working as a website designer seemed to be a logical step when I decided to stop doing audio-visual production. I'd always been comfortable with technology and this new internet thing seemed very exciting. I'd made my company's website in 1995 and a couple of personal websites in 1996 so it seemed the way to go.

What is that you like with your work?
I like the balance between creative and technical. I also like the fact that with the speed the web moves at you're always learning.

In an interview in the Digital Artist Magazine, who interviewed me a few years back, I was asked what I would like to see in future versions of CorelDRAW Graphics Suite. Is there anything you would like to see?
As I mentioned before, PhotoPaint needs a lot of love to get it back as a rival to Photoshop. Amongst other things I'd like to see total functionality for all effects on 48 bit images, vector shapes or Smart Objects, a good healing tool, lens correction, HDR tone mapping and a version that takes full advantage of 64 bit operating systems.

In my opinion Corel should stop buying up amateur products, changing their name and bundling them in as part of the Graphics Suite and instead focus on making DRAW and PhotoPaint the serious, professional rivals to Illustrator and Photoshop that they once were. There is room for a rival to Adobe and Corel must step up to the plate.

Do you drink coffee or tea in the morning?
Usually coffee - I make a small cafetière most mornings.

What do you think is important to think about running your own business or in your line of work, to think about. Is it discipline or and something else?

If you're freelance and working from home you do need to be disciplined and treat it as if it was a normal job - no working in a dressing gown and pyjamas. It helps if you have a separate room that is just for work as it's just as important to be able to close the door when you've finished for the day and relax and switch off.

For someone just starting out, what do you think they should think about?
Commitment! They should think long and hard about what they want to do and once they've decided on that, then stick to it. There's so much competition in all the creative businesses that if you're not single minded in your approach to work there will be others who are - and they'll be the ones who get the work.

Is there any big change in how and what you worked with when you first started out. Have the business changed in any way?
Website design has changed a lot since I started. These days everyone thinks they can put a website together - and in some ways they can. But thinking about the website structure is the thing where most non-designers usually slip up. They equate design with how the website looks - not how it works. To make a good website you need both!

Thank you Roy! As always nice to talk with you. See you at the forums!

Stefan Lindblad, January 2012
Copyright Roy Reed & Stefan Lindblad

The Interview Series: Pratik Shah owner of his own company Corel Insight, in India

2012-01-15T15:03:00.000+01:00

My Interview series continues with Pratik Shah who works in INDIA with his own company Corel Insight. I interview people I have come to know through Corel forums, and who are fellow beta testers of and fellow CorelDRAW users. And some of us have met in real life.

Your Name:
Pratik Shah

Website:
www.corelinsight.com

Style & type of work you produce?

Designs for web & print

You like myself is a user of CorelDRAW Graphics Suite. What was it that made you discover, and drew you to CorelDRAW Graphics Suite?

CorelDRAW is such a simple user friendly application yet so powerful that only an introduction to the software was enough to get going! I took training in computer graphics in a local training institute where I took classes for CorelDRAW. It was a wonderful learning experience. Sadly, my friend, Sandeep Saboo, who introduced me to this software during our college days passed away few years back due to brain haemorrhage.

What year was it?

1992

Which Programs do you use, Corel and none-Corel programs?

CorelDRAW Graphics Suite & Adobe Photoshop for commercial use & FL Studio, Audition for hobby (music).

Do you use any analog tools in conjuntion with your work?

Mouse!

Which year was it you started your business, your work?

1998

Would you recomend CorelDRAW Graphics Suite?

Without a doubt. Its a one stop solution for any designer.

What, more importantly, made you begin working with the work you do today? After all you could have made a career as a hairdresser or something in that line instead, like any other human being.

I was always good at drawing (not illustration) & very fond of different color combinations and obviously a bit of creative mind :). Surely with all these you are destined to meet up with CorelDRAW Graphics Suite some day, isn't it?

Detail photo fom Pratik Shah´s office, Photo by Pratik

What is that you like with your work?

Simplicity, elagance and all!

In an interview in the Digital Artist Magazine, who interviewed me a few years back, I was asked what I would like to see in future versions of CorelDRAW Graphics Suite. Is there anything you would like to see?

Well, this is tough one; Honestly, I am happy with how CorelDRAW have evolved with every version ever since I started using it. It has happened numerous times with me that while working on a version, and I feel like wish there was this feature and in the next release it was there already!

Do you drink coffee or tea in the morning?

Tea!

What do you think is important to think about running your own business or in your line of work, to think about. Is it discipline or and something else?

Creativity, sense of color combinations & simplicity in design. And yes, all this is possible only when there is discipline :).

For someone just starting out, what do you think they should think about?

Well, every human being thinks different. Every creative mind thinks different. There is no rule. Just do what you think is the best and when the job is done think that the best is yet to come!!

Is there any big change in how and what you worked with when you first started out. Have the business changed in any way?

It has changed definitely. When I (and many like me) started a career as a designer in early 90s, people used to say then, that we graphic designers have taken over the jobs of real artists. And it was true indeed. Those who changed their workflow along with the change in technology, survived. Today, like they say history repeats itself, as a graphic designer, I feel threatened about my career if I don't stay ahead of time. Yes, print media is diminishing and being taken over slowly by digital publishing. And if I don't update myself with new technology, its all over.

Thank you! CorelDRAW Rocks!!
- Pratik Shah, Mumbai.

And Thank you Pratik! Yes, CorelDRAW and Photo-Paint Rocks!

It was a pure pleasure as always to talk with you!

Stefan Lindblad
January 2012

Red Tail, the George Lucas movie

2012-01-15T00:05:00.001+01:00

The Daily Show
Get More: Daily Show Full Episodes,Political Humor & Satire Blog,The Daily Show on Facebook

Messi won Ballon DÓr again–but he isnt as good as Ibrahimovic just yet

2012-01-12T11:18:00.001+01:00

Some must love to give prices to the Spanish league and players from the Spanish league above all else. Messi once again won the Ballon DÓr.

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ballon_d'Or

Read below the list of winners year 2000 – 2011, and judge yourself.

Lionel Messi is undoubtedly a fabulous player. In a way he is worth the price as best player of the world. But at the same time on this most important issue… ahem, I still have to question why those people never give the price to the one player in the world that stands out more than all the players combined, on that level.

All though Messi is a great player in the Spanish league, and all though Christiano Ronaldo is a great player in the same league as well as in the Premier League for a short while as well, still they cant compare with Zlatan Ibrahimovic.

I will tell you why soon.

Ronaldo haven't always performed well in the national team, neither have Lionel Messi to say the least. But all though Zlatan Ibrahimovic have been criticize at time for his performance in the Swedish national team, no one can argue one bit that he have in contrast to Ronaldo and Messi actually performed in the national team way much more than those two combined.

Still they are considered as better players. After all they have won the Champions League. At least Messi who plays for Barcelona.

Now I will tell you why Zlatan Ibrahimovic is a much greater player than Roanldo and Messi – consistency.

In every team Zlatan Ibrahimovic have played in, the teams have won the national league titles. Not only that, since the first win for a team outside Sweden, Mr Ibrahimovic have delivered like no one in football history. He have won every single year since the first win. Now read that again. Every year. Since 2002/2003.

He have played and won with Ajax, Juventus, Inter, Barcelona and AC Milan. Every year. Not a year in-between but every year in a ROW!

And thing is that every time he have arrived to a team they have won. Inter had not won for a long time, then came Zlatan. AC Milan hadn't won for years, then Ibrahimovic arrived and said in front of every fans on San Siro stadium and the TV media “Vinciamo Tutti” – and he delivered, AC Milan won again.

Zlatan Ibrahimovic is the best player of the world. You may like or dislike, but you know its true Soon its the Euro Championchips 2012…

Now lets go back to my work – illustration and graphic design.

Stefan Lindblad

________________

Here a list of winners year 2000 – 2011

2000: Luis Figo, Real Madrid.

2001: Michael Owen, Liverpool.

2002: Ronaldo, Real Madrid.

2003: Pavel Nedved, Juventus.

2004: Andrej Stjevtjenko, Milan.

2005: Ronaldinho, Barcelona.

2006: Fabio Cannavaro, Real Madrid.

2007: Kaká, Milan.

2008: Cristiano Ronaldo, Manchestester United.

2009: Lionel Messi, Barcelona.

2010: Lionel Messi, Barcelona.

2011: Lionel Messi, Barcelona.

Corel Photo-Paint and Corel Aftershot–former Bibble PRO–a great combo!

2012-01-12T08:37:00.001+01:00

Corel & former Bibble Labs, creator of Bibble PRO announced Corel purchased Bibble Labs. What does this mean for users of Bibble PRO and Corel Photo-Paint and PainstShop Pro?

First is that Corel now rebranded, and have during a transitional time, where Bibble pro users will be able to upgrade to the latest verion of Bibble PRO, which was just released. The other that new users can buy Corel Aftershot, which basically is the same program, allthou with a new name and minor differences.

For me as Corel Photo-Paint user it means I can still use Bibble PRO if I like, or go totally “new” and go for Corel Aftershot. It will work like a sharm as always. For those who dont know, Corel market Paint Shop Pro on their website as the photo image editing standalone program, now next to Corel Aftershot. But there is another program as well and have been for quite some time now. Its Corel PHOTO-PAINT. Once a standalone program as well, but now merged into a package, a suite, namely CorelDRAW Graphics Suite, which is a combination in its standard packaging of CorelDRAW, Photo-Paint, Connect and Capture. Oh yes and Bitstream Navigator for font install and management. READ MORE HERE>

With Corel Aftershot those who work with RAW images and of cours high quality TIFF and jpeg will be able to do all there image editing if they like in Aftershot and then finish it off if needed in Photo-Paint. Or the other way around.

SOFT PROOFING

If you just read about Adobe Lightroom 4.o from Adoe about LR4 now having Soft Proofing, dont worry Corel Aftershot already has that as well. So for that reason alone, try it out in Corel Aftershot Pro.

Right now there is a Trial version out you try from Corels website: Download and read more about Corel Aftershot here >

And dont be fooled that Corel PHOTO-PAINT isnt mentioned in the press releases, its a great program! And have been the Photoshop contender for some time. With Corel Aftershot the stepping up may have begun. Future will tell.

Stefan Lindblad

The Interview Series: David Milisock President Custom Graphic Technologies Inc

2012-01-11T18:02:00.003+01:00

My Interview series continues with David Milisock, Custom Graphics technology, Lancaster, PA. USA. I interview people I have come to know through Corel forums, and who are fellow beta testers of and fellow CorelDRAW users. And some of us have met in real life.

David Milisock is the one I personally trust when it comes to colour management, and is considered one of "the" top notch experts on Colour Management and ICC complience. He is not only owner of Custom Graphics Technology, but also a writer of books and seminars on the subject of Colour Management. As a fellow Beta tester and Corel Advisory Council member its no doubt he had some impact on the development as a consultant/advisor when Corel made CorelDRAW and PHOTO-PAINT (CorelDRAW Graphics Suite) the almost only fully ICC - complient graphic software in the world. Photoshop users may not know this... David Milisock is a great person with lots of knowledge to share, which he does from time to time on the official Corel Community forum www.coreldraw.com.

Your Name:

David Milisock President Custom Graphic Technologies Inc

Website:

www.graphictechnology.com

Style & type of work you produce?

The answer is complex because I do so much, we offer full print
capabilities, offset, digital and inkjet as well as signs of a wide variety,
cut vinyl, standard poster type, architectural and artistic. Currently my
work is involving quite a bit of project management with all concepts
designed in CorelDRAW X5. Refitting old neon to LED is currently really
active do to the energy savings, so we redesign the electrical systems and
use many varied aerial lift trucks and this work spins off posters, banner
and new channel letter work.

My preferred work is professional level CorelDRAW Graphics Suite support,
specializing in color management, GDI (graphic device Interface) and
Postscript compliant file creation. We provide computers, software and
networking support.

You like myself are a user of CorelDRAW Graphics Suite. What was it that made you discover, and drew you to CorelDRAW Graphics Suite?

That's easy, Eric Whitmore of Whitmore Printing, I owned a small print shop
and needed a good general purpose graphics program and Eric suggested
CorelDRAW version 4 which was just being released. Eric provided what was
life changing advice, I use CorelDRAW everyday and can't imagine making a
profit in the graphic industry without it.

What year was it?

Hard to believe that was 1993

Which Programs do you use, Corel and none-Corel programs?

My core 99% use program is CorelDRAW X5, Corel Photo-PAINT X5, then I use Corel Paint Shop Pro, I use Adobe CS5 when I'm forced to, ( however Adobe Acrobat 9 and Distiller 9 with PitStop Pro are a must), Versaworks, Gerber, Flexisign.

Do you use any analogue tools in conjunction with your work?

If you mean design tools I would say only straight edges and cutting tools.

Which year was it you started your business, your work?

I started in graphics in 1975, worked my way to being the production manager of a $5 million dollar a year company and in 1991 started my own business which was the best thing I ever did. Three years of working myself to death but 18 years of great work. The only problem is the boss is an idiot!

Would you recommend CorelDRAW Graphics Suite?

Absolutely, especially if you're in business to make a profit. If you're in the sign business and creating work for digital devices., RIP driven or driver based forget using anything else for design.

What, more importantly, made you begin working with the work you do today? After all you could have made a career as a hairdresser or something in that line instead, like any other human being.

It was by accident, my degree is in electronics but after the military and during a recession I took any job I could get and it was at a tin can printing company where playing volleyball at lunch ( I play a full contact version) I spiked the two color pressmen in the face he fell and broke his arm. So instead of a work men's compensation claim they made me his apprentice, it was fun and the rest is history.

The entrance to Custom Graphics technology in Lancaster, Pensylvania, USA. Photo by David Milisock, 2012.

What is that you like with your work?

Something different everyday and due to the types of projects very complex.

In an interview in the Digital Artist Magazine, who interviewed me a few years back, I was asked what I would like to see in future versions of CorelDRAW Graphics Suite. Is there anything you would like to see?

If we're talking the near future I would say an increase in speed and stability, full 16 bit image support especially 16 bit LAB color and the removal of the node limit. The removal of the node limit is now required because of the poor quality of the stock clip art on the web and the creation of overly complex brushes and art.

Do you drink coffee or tea in the morning?

COFFEE!!

Good!

What do you think is important to think about running your own business or in your line of work, to think about. Is it discipline or and something else?

I can only speak from a U.S. perspective but I would say first, understand your technology, never over spend, understand people and never do anything complex without consulting your accountant and attorney.

For someone just starting out, what do you think they should think about?

If they really have the fire in their belly for it. Working for yourself is nothing like anyone says, it will be what you make of it. You must be able to take a punch, there will be disappointment as well as success.

Is there any big change in how and what you worked with when you first started out. Have the business changed in any way?

Great question! I reinvent myself every few years, everything has changed and is continuing to change at an even faster pace. The graphics industry in the U.S. has been and in my opinion is being devastated by the poor quality of management today. A reduction in the number of producing companies at a 12% annual rate and in my opinion it is all due to poor management not the diversification of technology. In 1975 a company could afford to make an error and buy a non or less than productive piece of equipment because profit margins were double digit. Now with public companies posting profit margins under 1% and private companies posting single digit (low 3% to 5%) a manager that does not know good from bad will contribute to you death quickly. This is one of the reasons that CorelDRAW is a core part of my company.

Thank you David. Love talking with you as always.

Stefan Lindblad,
January 2012
Copyright David Milisock & Stefan Lindblad

The Interview Series: Anand Dixit, in INDIA

2012-01-11T16:20:00.001+01:00

My Interview series continues with Anand Dixit who works in INDIA. Owner & Founder, and part owner of the company Corel Elements. I interview people I have come to know through Corel forums, and who are fellow beta testers of and fellow CorelDRAW users. And some of us have met in real life.

Your Name:

Anand Dixit

Website:

www.corelelements.net

Style & type of work you produce?

Most of my work is in Print Media. I should say 'Our work' rather than 'My work' as me and my wife work together and she is a qualified Commercial Artist. We together run a small design studio. So we are into designing of Brochures, catalogs, Packaging designs, Point of Purchase materials etc.

You like myself is a user of CorelDRAW Graphics Suite. What was it that made you discover, and drew you to CorelDRAW Graphics Suite?

I started my career in an advertising agency. Not as an artist but as a Media Manager. I used to see the artists working on CorelDRAW creating some good stuff. I was always interested and fascinated with what they created with the suite.So after I left my job to start my own business, I started using the application.

What year was it?

I left my job in 1991. However I started using CorelDRAW with its version 3 only when my wife joined my business in 1992/1993.

Which Programs do you use, Corel and non-Corel programs?

Well. For designing requirements.... its just and just CorelDRAW Graphics Suite. Absolutely no other software is yet needed. Rest some are my language software, Office suite to support certain requirements in DRAW like a spreadsheet for creating a database for variable data printing in DRAW and so on.

Do you use any analog tools in conjuntion with your work?

You mean pencil, point pens, blades, brushes etc. Right? Not me. But my wife needs some times (But very rarely now-a-days).

Which year was it you started your business, your work?

As mentioned earlier I left my job as a Media Manager in 1991. Started my own business. Not being an artist, I had never thought I would settle with a design studio. I started offering services like data base marketing, conducting marketing surveys, product education campaigns for clients' products etc. My wife joined me in my business somewhere in 1992 and our business started changing. We together now run a design studio since then.

Would you recomend CorelDRAW Graphics Suite?

Yes. Surely. It's a full fledged solution to run a design studio for Print Media.

What, more importantly, made you begin working with the work you do today? After all you could have made a career as a hairdresser or something in that line instead, like any other human being.

Well this question has made me think : What industry would I have been into if I was not here. I did my Bachelors in Commerce. So probably I would have joined a bank to count currency notes for others. LOL.I got my first job at an Advertising Agency and got my interest developed in the industry. Then came in my own business in the same industry. Finally after my wife joined me to make it 'our' business from 'my' we started flourishing. Frankly I never had to think of doing any thing else than what we are doing.

What is that you like with your work?

I am more into technical areas than being a creator of a design. So obviously I started finding ways to make the designs technically perfect for reproduction. Explored and applied the tools from the application that made the tasks easier. Learned VB programming by reading books and websites to program small plugins that reduced the worktime and made the digital artworks perfect for reproduction. That's what I like in my work. Now after successfully running my business for over 20 years, I am almost a full time CorelDRAW trainer and a Strategic Training Partner for CorelDRAW in India. And I am enjoying that too.

Hmmm. Development is the key to success. So keep adding new and good tools, good features to make the user feel easy using the application. This wish has no end and the discussion on this subject on www.coreldraw.com here is the proof.

Do you drink coffee or tea in the morning?

Coffee in the Morning?

Why? I love to have it any time. Stefan, if you remember, we had a long discussion on Coffee on our forum. I love the aroma and flavour of 'South Indian Coffee'. A strong filter coffee with less sugar.

What do you think is important to think about running your own business or in your line of work, to think about. Is it discipline or and something else?

You said Discipline. Let me confess. I am disciplined only at my professional work. My personal things are always messed up. My room, my wardrobe and even my wallet. My wallet always is full everything except of money. Small pieces of paper with cell numbers, ATM slips, Cash vouchers and what not. I carry my money in other pockets.Answering to what you asked. Dedication, faith in what you do, self confidence (I mean real confidence and not over confidence) and logical thinking.

For someone just starting out, what do you think they should think about?

Being a trainer, I come across lots of young students at institutes. I always recommend them to work under some experts till they gain some experience on real life work. Most of them are not interested in working under someone. They start their own business with whatever knowledge they have. I think they always compromise with what they do. It always benefits to know from an expert about mistakes you do and probably you get a better solution to what you did.

Is there any big change in how and what you worked with when you first started out. Have the business changed in any way?

Technologies have surely changed. And so the expectations of your clients from you. Now they need quick designs with options. The Way of working has changed. Handwork is now rarely found as it consumes more time.

Thank you Anand!

Stefan Lindblad, January 2012

The Interview Series: Foster D. Coburn III, in Arizona. Unleashed Productions and CorelDRAW Expert.

2012-01-11T15:47:00.001+01:00

My Interview series continues with Foster D. Coburn III, in Arizona, USA. I interview people I have come to know through Corel forums, and who are fellow beta testers of and fellow CorelDRAW users. And some of us have met in real life. Like Foster and Myself in Arizona.

Many dont know, but one of the first names I came to learn about back in 1997-1998 when I started out to learn CorelDRAW and Photo-Paint parallell with Photoshop at the time, was Foster. He is one of those I first learn from, always friendly to help out on the then Newsgroups (NNTP) at Corel. You can still find Foster on the forums, one being the official Corel community forum www.coreldraw.com. Foster is a writer of numerous books on the subject, and well sought after instructor and today publish and sell his excellent and highly respected DVDs on CorelDRAW and Photo-Paint through his company Unleashed Productions.

In 2010 (started working on them in 2009) I got comissioned by Foster at Unleashed Productions to create and draw a the new character illusstrations for his famous "CorelDRAW Unleashed Training Boot Camp". Read and view more about the illustrations and the campe here >

Your Name:

Foster D. Coburn III

Website:
http://www.unleash.com , http://graphics-unleashed.unleash.com http://www.facebook.com/graphicsunleashed , www.youtube.com/coreldrawunleashed

Style & type of work you produce?

My main focus is products to aid other graphic artists. That includes training materials, additional artwork
content or add-ons.

You like myself is a user of CorelDRAW Graphics Suite. What was it that made you discover, and drew you to CorelDRAW Graphics Suite?

I was first introduced to Corel Corporation by the package of add-ons they created for Ventura Publisher that included Corel Newfont and Corel Headline.

What year was it?

1988

Which Programs do you use, Corel and non-Corel programs?

The full list is too long to put them all here. I'll focus on those I use most often.

CorelDRAW Graphics Suite X5

Adobe Creative Suite CS5.5

Microsoft Office 2010

Camtasia 7

WeBuilder 2011

Bibble 5

Do you use any analogue tools in conjunction with your work?

I take a lot of notes with a pen.

Which year was it you started your business, your work?

1993

What, more importantly, made you begin working with the work you do today? After all you could have made a career as a hairdresser or something in that line instead, like any other human being.

I think it is a career that chose me rather than me choosing a career.

What is that you like with your work?

I like that I do different things all the time. The most satisfying moments come when I know that I've given a user the knowledge they need to further their career.

In an interview in the Digital Artist Magazine, who interviewed me a few years back, I was asked what I would like to see in future versions of CorelDRAW Graphics Suite. Is there anything you would like to see?

My list is long and varied and I make sure that the folks at Corel are well aware of those features. What I don't want to see is CorelDRAW trying to do everything. For example, it is not a layout program. For that Corel should revive Ventura. It is not a program for designing Web sites.

Do you drink coffee or tea in the morning?

Coffee.

What do you think is important to think about running your own business or in your line of work, to think about. Is it discipline or and something else?

When you are self-employed, your income is dependent on the work you put into the business.

For someone just starting out, what do you think they should think about?

Training! I see too many users buy an expensive piece of hardware for output and CorelDRAW to create artwork for output. They don't budget any time or money on actually learning how to use CorelDRAW. This leads to wasted materials and wasted time.

Is there any big change in how and what you worked with when you first started out. Have the business changed in any way?

The Internet would be the biggest change as it gives us a better platform for reaching users all over the world.

Thank you Foster, it was a pleasure to talk too you as always, thanks for letting me interview you.

Stefan Lindblad, January 2012
Copyright Foster D. Coburn III & Stefan Lindblad

The Interview Series: Hugh Johnson, California, USA. HJohnson Garment Services, & Hjohnson Consultants

2012-01-11T00:36:00.001+01:00

First out in my Interview series is Hugh Johnson from California, USA. I interview people I have come to know through Corel forums, and who are fellow beta testers of and fellow CorelDRAW users. And some of us have met in real life.

Your Name?
Hugh M. Johnson

Website?
http://www.hjohnson.com & http://www.jcon.com

Style & type of work you produce?

Mostly prepared material for the local embroidery and screen print shops. I provide heat transfer materials and cut tackle-twill used to decorate clothing.

You like myself is a user of CorelDRAW Graphics Suite. What was it that made you discover and drew you to CorelDRAW Graphics Suite?

In 2003, i retired from the software engineering industry. At first I thought it was great to not go to work each day and to be paid for staying home. But that caused me to come down with a large dose of boredom. My wife works for her brother, who owns an embroidery shop. I started hanging around there, getting in the way of their work.

At that time, a new type of machine was being introduced to the garment decorating industry. It was a highly modified Epson printer, modified to be able to print directly upon garments. After investigating this machine, I purchased it and then found out that I needed a good graphics program to be able to take full advantage of the print capabilities of the garment printer. I searched and found Corel Graphics Suite and purchased it. I taught myself how to use the applications. I am still learning, everyday, more and more of CorelDRAW and PhotoPaint.

Also, I purchased a plotter/cutter used in the sign industry. I use the plotter/cutter, mainly to cut heat transfer material that is applied to garments, and also for precise cutting of pressure sensitive tackle twill.

Today, I even design rhinestone decorations and provide the template to produce the rhinestone patterns upon transfer tape for application to the garment.

What year was it?

I bought the Corel Graphics Suite in 2003, that was version 11. I have since kept current on the new releases of Corel Graphics Suite.

Which Programs do you use, Corel and none-Corel programs?

Phew! That would be a large list, but I will keep it down to graphics related items. I do use CorelDRAW and PhotoPaint, both of which are part of the the Corel Graphics Suite. I have CoCut, which is a great program that allows me to design away in CorelDRAW and then with a single click of the mouse, have that design in CoCut, ready to be sent directly to the plotter/cutter. Another tool that I use often, is the Flexi/LXi vector design and plotter/cutter driver. This item is I use mostly for cutting names to be applied to team sports uniforms.

Do you use any analog tools in conjuntion with your work?

I still use a ruler and sharp knife to cut material, be it heat transfer vinyl, sign vinyl or tackle twill, by hand.

Which year was it you started your business, your work?

I am a rather late bloomer to starting my own business, I began in 2003, at the age of 65. But, I have been working since forever. I began my adult life in the military, in 1958, out of school. I found that I can not be without work of some kind...

Would you recomend CorelDRAW Graphics Suite?

I most certainly would. I have played with just about all the other graphics programs out there, but I found I like the Corel Suite, best. I can get more work done, in a given period of time, with it than any other.

What, more importantly, made you begin working with the work you do today? After all you could have made a career as a hairdresser or something in that line instead, like any other human being.

I have been a soldier, geophysicist and engineer. Now I am in the garment decorating business. As I explained above, I got into this business as I was not ready to retire, and a little help from my wife...

What is it that you like with your work?

Even though I am not an artist, but more of a mechanic, when it comes too graphics, I love the satisfaction that I get when I accomplish a creation. And much of my work is worn and seen by others.

In an interview in the Digital Artist Magazine, who interviewed me a few years back, I was asked what I would like to see in future versions of CorelDRAW Graphics Suite. Is there anything you would like to see?

Corel Graphics Suite is used by many people in many industries, so this is a difficult question as one answer will not provide for all. But the one generic thing would be to continuously improve and expand the Suite capabilities as the digital graphics industry continues to expand and grow.

Do you drink coffee or tea in the morning?

Most of my coffee mugs are 12 fluid ounce (approximately 350 ml) mugs. I drink three mugs of coffee before breakfast and usually one or two more, after breakfast. I usually like a robust coffee and lean towards the stronger flavors. Direct infusion would be more efficient.

What do you think is important to think about running your own business or in your line of work, to think about. Is it discipline or and something else?

Perseverance is the key. Starting your own business can be frustrating and even take some time. But, listening to your customers and keeping up with your industry, as well as a long term outlook can be keys to succeeding in business. You should love what you are doing, that will show when you discuss your work with your customers.

For someone just starting out, what do you think they should think about?

They should investigate their target market and find something that can fulfill a niche in that market. They should also make long range plans for fulfilling that market niche.

Is there any big change in how and what you worked with when you first started out. Have the business changed in any way?

Everything that I have worked on, in my life, changed from the time I first started out. That is a law of nature, that things will change and grow, if not grow, then evolve. An example of this, is when I bought my garment printer, it was the only one available on the market. Within one to two years, there were many of them available, to the point that just about every garment decorating shop could purchase one to supplement their business.

The plotter/cutter, that I use for garment decorating, has slowly evolved from the time I started out in it with a some what limited material availability. This was not a new industry facet when I entered, but it still continued to grow. Today, there are more material variations that is available for heat transfer onto garments than there were eight/nine years ago.

Hugh, a big thank you!
Cheers,
Stefan Lindblad

Stefan Lindblad, January 2012
Copyright Hugh Johnson & Stefan Lindblad

Interviews soon to come

2012-01-10T16:57:00.001+01:00

Soon a series of interviews I made with a selected few will be published.

Stefan Lindblad

With Bibble Pro and PSP - is Photo-Paint “programa non grata” in Corel Marketing? Will it get the Ventura treatment?

2012-01-10T11:56:00.001+01:00

Corel purchased Bibble Labs Bibble Pro and made a version of Bibble Pro and now call it Corel Aftershot Pro. Should CorelDRAW graphics suite users who uses PHOTO-PAINT for photo editing rethink parts of their portfolio of programs now? Should they now have to buy PaintShop PRO?. Will Corel Photo-Paint die?

When you read newsletters, press releases and Corels own website, there is basically no mentioning of Photo-Paint. Why is it like this? Corel Ventura still excist in that you can buy it from Corel Store, but its an old version and there seem to be no upgrading of it anytime soon.

Will the same fate of Ventura happen to Corel Photo-Paint?

Here an example of the no-mentioning of Photo-Paint. Strange that a great program isnt even mentioned. http://www.corel.com/corel/pages/index.jsp?pgid=800682

In my wordl Corel PHOTO-PAINTE should be mentioned on Corels website under Image editing section of programs, next to Paint Shop Pro as well as Illustration, painting & web software, next to Corel Painter. But it isnt.

Corel bought Bibble Labs who make Bibble PRO. That is great news, but Jeff Stephens of Bibble Labs now Corel makes no mentioning ahout Corel Photo-Paint working with Bibble Pro/ Corel Aftershot. Why is that?

Press release from Jeff Stephens, Bibble Labs/Corel
http://support.bibblelabs.com/forums/viewtopic.php?f=84&t=19655

I personally uses both Corel Photo-Paint and CorelDRAW in my daily work as illustrator and graphic designer. And cant understand the silence of a great program.

Bibble Pro/Corel Aftershot PRO isnt that pricey and neither is PaintShop Pro, both great programs in themselves. Bibble Pro/Corel Aftershot will benefit many users who still havent found it.

Hope they find Photo-Paint as well. After all I know people who buy Photoshop believing CorelDRAW Graphics Suite just came with CorelDRAW. Not even seeing Photo-Paint being installed. Kind of weird in itself because its viewable in Start/programs and so forth. But then its not even mentioned really by Corel so maybe its not so strange after all.

Are people geting paid not to mention Photo-Paint?

Stefan Lindblad

New T-shirts, new illustration & design, by Stefan Lindblad

2012-01-09T19:21:00.001+01:00

There are new designs, illustrations I made for new t-shirts. All available through my t-shirt shop at Spreadshirt. High Qulaity garment, apparel and prints. You order and its printed and shipped on demand. Almost tailor made.

The t-shirt shop address is, for euros http://stefanlindblad.spreadshirt.se/

Click the Spreadshirt logo to read more about Spreadshirt.

Ps. If you live in sweden and like to buy with swedish kronor, then visit my store in swedish currencie http://stefanlindblad-design.spreadshirt.se/

Stefan Lindblad
Illustration, graphic design & art

Dark Horse Comics, the Conan contest and offer

2012-01-08T19:49:00.001+01:00

Dark Horse Comics Publishing who I think publish great comics with great artists, they just came out with a new contest – they ask you to come in with a mind blowing artwork for a cover. If you win you will get it published in the book itself.

http://www.darkhorse.com/Blog/786/conan-barbarian-pin-contest

What is the price you get other than that?

A complimentary issue of the book and loosing all the copyright to the artwork. That sounds great huh? Yeah, right.

Why Dark Horse have to make such a badly paid price for a lot of hours of work is beyond me. Yes, the prestige to get published is great but a complimentary issue and loosing all the rights to your image? Nah, thats not right.

Why Dark Horse does this I dont get, but they are not the only one making these strange deals.

Why not Dark Horse instead said: "Non-Exclusive but with the right to publish, creator/illustrator retain all rights". Why do you have to take all the rights Dark Horse?

The way I suggest you will still be able to publish it, illustrator will be happy and no one feel stupid afterwards. Do it different and do it right. Do it so it feels good for both parties. Not only for you.

Other than that I love your artist connected to you and love the products you create and sell. Sad you do it this wrong way.

Good Luck!

Stefan Lindblad

Hotfix 4 for CorelDRAW X5, download here

2012-01-06T14:53:00.001+01:00

Download Hotfix 4 for CorelDRAW Graphics Suite X5 from Corels own website here: http://www.corel.com/corel/pages/index.jsp?pgid=800161&ppid=1000083

CorelDRAW Graphics Suite X5 Hot Fix 4Notes:

Hot Fix 4 will update the latest release of CorelDRAW Graphics Suite X5 (15.2.0.686). The build number after the hot fix is applied will be 15.2.0.695. The following fix is included in the update;

JPG, PNG, GIF, and JPEG2000 files will export consistently
The Outline Width control on the property bar will accept custom values

IMPORTANT: To install this update, the original DVD may be required. Please note: each application has a version number. If you want to know the full version number of your installation, click Help, About in any Corel application, or check the volinfo.txt file at the root of Programs DVD.

Quick Instructions

To install this update:

Download the update onto your system by saving it to your hard drive.
Double-click the installer file to begin the update.
Follow the instructions to review the Software License Agreement and complete the installation.

If you encounter any technical difficulties installing this update, please contact Corel Support Services.

Released:

2011-10-03

Canon doesnt create proper scanner drivers for 64 bit software – they dont care

2011-12-19T09:21:00.001+01:00

If you have thoughts of buying a new scanner from Canon, who claim in their advertizing & support driver download pages, it being Windows 7, 64 bit driver, sorry is not entirely true. You may very well be heavily dissapointed. Why? Well its the 64 bit TWAIN driver Canon dont support.

If you have a 64 bit computer, using Windows 7, 64 bit, (very common these days) you wont be able to scann anything via your 64 bit computer program solely because Canon havent put any effort to create a 64 bit TWAIN driver. Only 32 bit. Remember, its the TWAIN.

You can see this clearly if you install your Canon driver, then go to C:/Windows/Twain. It will probably only say “Twain 32” or something in that line.

Canon have solved this, they believe, by demanding of you to use their own Canon scanner software MP Navigator for 64 bit computer programs. From MP Navigator you can set the scanner to open your images in your computer program, which isnt the same thing.

This is very irritating if you are accustomed to use TWAIN for scanning directly in your computer programs. There are many computer software makers out there who probably are already blamed, or will be falsely blamed for this problem, when its really the Canon Development teams not doing their job in my opinion. Why is Canon acting this way I dont know, but I would bet its money and lazyness involved.

I wouldnt be surprised if other scanner manufacturers like HP, Epson etc. are doing the same misstake as Canon, but I only have a Canon scanner so I havent been able to test this.

Today you might sit with a Windows 7, 64 bit or Windows 8 64 bit beta, or Apple Mac OS 64 bit, on your 64 bit computer – but you are using a 32 bit computer program. So right now you might not feel the pain. But when your computer programs become more and more 64 bit, you will see the difference and you will falsely blame Microsoft, Adobe, Corel, Autodesk, Apple, GIMP and other companies for not doing their job.

Do the right thing and write to Canon and other manufacturers and demand they make a proper 64 bit Twain driver.

Who knows, maybe the software makers come up with a solution of their own, but till then we who buy scanners will have to carry the burdon.

Stefan Lindblad
www.canvas.nu

Illustration, graphic design & layout.

New T-Shirt, buy in my Store at Spreadshirt, Stefan Lindblad design

2011-12-06T23:02:00.001+01:00

New T-Shirt, buy in my Store at Spreadshirt, Stefan Lindblad design. Illustration & design.
This is a black print, and in the shop you can choose from a variety of colours of the T-Shirt. From white to numerous of colours.

Stefan Lindblad

Still an Adobe Photoshop user? – think again & maybe go elsewhere

2011-11-29T12:38:00.001+01:00

Today I read an article by Photoshop guru extraordinair Scott Kelby. An open letter to Adobe critizising them and asking them to rethink their new upgrade policy.

I am a happy non-adobe user. I use CorelDRAW and Corel Photo-Paint as part of the CorelDRAW Graphics Suite. Whie CorelDRAW is the leader in vector graphics for many around the world, Photo-Paint is highly professional but still a bit after Adobe Photoshop in Photo editing. But for me as an illustrator Photo-Paint is not behind. It really depends on what you work with and how you accomplish the end results.

The article again. If you currently own Adobe CS4 or lower versions, you will not be eligable to upgrade to the new upcoming Adobe CS6. You will have to, forced to, first upgrade to CS5.5 before 31 december this year, 2011, or you will have to pay a full price to upgrade to CS6.

Do you still love Adobe?

As Scott Kelby writes, you dont buy a program because you love it, but because you work with it. At the same time, you dont buy programs if you really dont like the company – unless you HAVE to do it due to not having any choice.

Now in our world choices do excist. Some of them you pay for and some comes absolutly free of charge. An ordinary users, not as fancy fussy 48 bit photographer like Scott Kelby, would be more than overwhelmed of joy on what they can accomplish with the Adobe competition, if they only knew. Useally though they are hooked and manipulated by media who constantly only write about Adobe Products, basically as the only choice worth it out there. And you have to ask yourself why they portait it as such.

Choices I come to think about right now is listed below. Whatever you choose, think agin if its Adobe you are gonna buy or alreay have because their upgrade policy just changed, and its gonna drain your bank account once more.

+ Photo-Paint, part of CorelDRAW Graphics Suite

+ Paint Shop Pro, Corel.

+ Gimp

Stefan Lindblad
Illustration, graphic design, layout and art.

Christmas time, Christmas music

2011-11-26T18:27:00.001+01:00

Stefan Lindblad

Green Day–Wake me up when september ends

2011-11-05T15:16:00.001+01:00

Zlatan Ibrahimovic book

2011-11-03T22:32:00.001+01:00

Where to buy, please scroll down

Edit: At this time the book is in Swedish language and translated & published into Italian and Norwegian. More languages are planned.

Edit: 2011-11-11
Today got an email from the Swedish Publisher that they are selling the book,translating, to languages and countries as much as they can.

The demand for the book worldwide is obvious. When I look in the visitor statistics on this blogpost its from literally all corners of the world. And the numbers of of people looking for the book are simply many. I will try to keep it updated as to which languages and where you can order/buy it online.

I found that many who look for the book by Zlatan Ibrahimovic, co-written by David Lagercrantz, arrive at my blog,and both my blogs in swedish and english language version. Therefore as a helping hand, here a few links to legitimate online bookstores.

Edit: The book published in Sweden have been sold in pre-sales first edition 100 000 copies and are now sold out in Sweden. Another 100 000 copies are urgently being printed by the Publisher in Sweden, Albert Bonnier Publishing House. I have no figures of sales in Italy and Norway at this time, which are the other two countries translated into, published and sold simultainous with Sweden.

The book at this time have been written in swedish and translated to italian and norwegian. More languages are being translated into acccording to some press in Sweden. In swedish language, these online stores are recomnded.

BUY HERE

Sweden

Aftonbladet Tabloid newspaper online store >
Bokus >
Adlibris>

Italy

Amazon, Italia >

I have read a few comments, and reactions, by readers of articles in newspapers online, about the statements from the book. Among them are obvioulsy supporters of Barcelona. And there are those who feel obliged to support Pep Guardiola.
When I read those who hit back on Zlatan Ibrahimovic words of dissapointments, I am in no way surprised over that a human being can feel this way, the way Zlatan writes about his situation in Barca. Its normal. Havent we all had a boss at work or client presently we simply dont like? And who we feel misstreated us in some way? Yes we have. The difference is that Ibrahimovic at this time tells the story how he felt at that time. Not how it is today. But how it was at that time. A biography is a biography of the past, not the present.
In any case I can fully understand a man who feel he is misstreated and therefore feel anger. Some people keep their fist in their jeans pockets and keep quite – Zlatan didint.
What would have happened if he had stayed at Bercelona?
He would probably be sitting on the bench just like Thierry Henry did and destroying his career. Instead he arrived at AC Milan and again won the league title. Which he have done 8-9 years in a row. Personally I never understood why Zlatan had to go to Barcelona, nor any other player for that matter. Simply because no matter how great I feel Ibrahimovis is, the competition is to high. He most certainly is more than good enough to take a place in the squade. He didnt play the whole season due to injuries and Guardiola, he missed a lot of games – and he still was the second best goal scorer in Barcelona.
Look at where Thierry Henry is playing now – MLS, USA. Thierry Henry was a fabulous player when arrived at Barca, but then came Guardiola.
And not only Zlatan have complained over how they have been treated by Guardialo. Bojan Krick now in ROMA, Italy have spoken out about it. Yaya Touré and of course T. Henry.

Stefan Lindblad
Illustrator, graphic designer & artist

Why is this art dangerous to the goverment

2011-10-30T14:06:00.001+01:00

Click on this link attached. Look at the picture and ask yourself in what way this sculpture by a Tunisian artist in Tunisia is so dangerous to the rulers of Tunisia, that they need to instantly remove it. Personally I dont get it.

Link: http://www.dn.se/kultur-noje/konstnarer-oroliga-efter-islamistsegern . Please use Google translate to read the article in your prefered language http://translate.google.com

Was this childish political behavior in Tunisia, and the other Arab Spring countries, what people fought for?

A master and disciple caring for each others

2011-10-30T10:23:00.001+01:00

In sports like football 30 years of age is considered old. Which it of course is not. Its very much relative one could say.

My fellow Swede, the great Zlatan Ibrahimovic is now 30. I hope he will continue playing for at least 5 years more. That way we who loves his art on the pitch will be able to see him play and paint his art in Brazil, would Sweden qualify for the World Championship of Football. Passion, artistry, tactics and brilliance are just a few words that perfectly fit the beautiful game of football, and great players who personify just that, should play in Brazil.

I read this morning an article, written by Jennifer Wegerup, in Swedish tabloid Aftonbladet the sports pages, about him and the game between Roma – Ac Milan. A game Ibrahimovic, Ibra, scored two goals, header.

A beautiful, poetic and symbolic picture accompany the article. A picture showing Zlatan Ibrahimovic and Thiago Silva (from Brazil).

If you like to see this poetic picure, and the image is, and full of stories being told, clic this link. http://www.aftonbladet.se/sportbladet/fotboll/internationell/italien/article13859050.ab

Its Zlatan Ibrahimovic after the game leaning down recuparating from the game just played and Thiago Silva coming with a helping hand.

Brothers in arms. Master and disciple, Two collegues. Two friends. Two who care for each others.

Beutiful.

As the game.

Stefan Lindblad
Illustration, graphic design & art

Why americans & Britts use Red, Blue & White in design

2011-10-28T09:03:00.001+02:00

Why americans and in some way the Brittish/UK constantly use red, blue and white in their design are probably of 2 reasons. 1 being they love their country flag. 2 They are nationalistic. Nothing of this has to be wrong in any way whatsoever. But if I as a Swede would use Blue and yellow all over my design then it would only feel odd. And some would claim it to be nationalistic, and in Sweden that is just considered bad. Unless its a sports event going on of course.

I remember when I first did my military service many years back, there was no Swedish flag on every uniform. When neo-nazi groupes took the swedish flag and almost hijacked it, then the Swedish military brought it more visable to the uniforms. If I remember it correctly. It was a statement that the Swedish flag is for every swede no matter what background one may have or have not. It was a friendly and strong statement.

Now, using red, blue and white is a statement, and in many ways the american flag and its colurs is a trademark. A strong one I may add. The UK flag Union Jack may be strong as well, but probably not as trademark-ish as the american is.

The red, blue and white in american newspapers online, like the New York Times somewhat give comfort, you think you know what you get. And because its the New York Times it doesnt feel hostile. It just feels like a movie. When the same colour statements in the design is seen on neo-conservative media such as Fox news, then the feeling is slightly different – for me as a none-american. Unless its the Fox news sports pages. Fox News simply give the shivers of not believing anything on the site to be true.

When it comes to red, blue and white in UK/Brittish media it more give the feeling of “brittain” and nothing more to it. Funny who the same colours and sender give so different feelings.

Stefan Lindblad

Illustration, graphic design & art

Big shot Photographer who considered to buy a drum scanner

2011-10-10T14:45:00.001+02:00

I used to know a Glamour girl/fashion/advertizing photographer who some 11-12 years ago told me he was to buy a drum scanner - it would cost him 5000 euros, or in that area. And he was definitly going to buy a Mac. Period. He had just started to dabble with photoshop. And had an assistant who worked the liquids to develop his photo paper copies in the photo room.

I asked him why he didnt whent for a top line flatbed scanner instead, for way less money, considering he already took his specially high end quality photo roll of film to a printer down the streat, for expenditure money his client already agreed to pay for.

He looked at me and then looked down and wouldnt consider to listen anymore to me - an illustrator who had a PC, CorelDRAW and a flatbed scanner. He didnt say it, but I surely felt it…

He still bought it. Recession of the time came, and many of his clients whent bust. And he complained of big losses of clients. I didnt rub anything in, but I told him to at least consider to take editorial photos for all kind of magazines/newspapers. He refused - after all he was a fashion/glamour girl and advertizing photographer.

He later moved from his fancy photo studio down the street, and we later lost contact as he stopped calling/emailing for a coffee.

I guess he still work as a photographer. The guy was really a nice guy, but that buying a drum scanner for his 1 person use only, that baffled me.

Stefan Lindblad
Illustration, graphic design & art

Why wasnt I at Paul Madonnas in San Fransisco 1-2nd Oct

2011-10-08T20:08:00.001+02:00

I was´nt in San Fransisco so I couldnt go to Paul Madonnas opening at his studio. I have never met Paul Madonna, neither do I know him, but we exchange emails when I sent him links to retailers in Sweden. I would had loved to see his work in real. He is a great artist and illustrator and I love his work. Bought a book “All over Coffee” at Borders on Union Square, dec 2007. Had never heard about him before I entered the Borders book Store. Then saw his book signed and all, and Mia told me to not hesitate and go on and buy it. And so I did.

Visit at least his great website and buy something.

www.paulmadonna.com

Stefan Lindblad
Illustrator, artist & graphic designer

When Aftonbladet newspaper asked me draw G. Persson and refuse to publish it

2011-10-08T19:26:00.001+02:00

Asked many years back now, during the EU meeting in Gothenburg, Sweden, by Aftonbladet socialist daily newspaper tabloid to illustrate Göran Persson for the “ledarsidan”, drew him as a EU Ceasar Persson, Aftonbladet payed me for the work but never published it.

I wonder why they refused to publish it . I guess I should publish it myself on my blog, or up for sale on my webshop.

Stefan Lindblad
Illustrator

Stumbled upon these two articles, one about sweden and one about climate change, kind of…

2011-10-08T18:03:00.001+02:00

I stumbled upon these two articles today. One published on CNN about americans experience and views about stockholm and Sweden. And the other one in New York Times about climate change, kind of and on american politics. Both fun and interesting read. Enjoued muchly reading both today.

CNN article >

New York Times article >

Enjoy!

Stefan Lindblad

Copyright and what are you as a client buying & you who sell selling

2011-10-06T18:36:00.001+02:00

Each country have their own copyright laws. Some countries have basically the same and some may officially have, but disregarded, and some dont have at all. But we can see that many laws are the same and universal.

One of the of the most important laws in Copyright is – common sense and mutual respect.

If you as client dont see an illustrator and graphic designer or writer, composer and anything artistically creative as a real job, then you have to rethink and start learning. Its work. And it´s a real job. Its what built the empire of Disney and the empire if you like of Gearge Lucas/Star Wars, and made it possible for us to let George Lucas create one of the most important companies in motion picture. And one heck of supporter of artist such as illustrators in movies.

George Lucas is in my view one of the most important people to lift illustration in motion pictures and even computer games.

You say what? someone cry´s out. Yep, thats my view. And why so? Go ponder a bit and I might write more about it later, but think Lucas Art. Its a good starting point.

Now. As a buyer and seller of copyright, what is the buyer buying and what are you selling. Lets for the ease of it tell what, according to Swedish copyright laws, the buyer buying. See this list as a “check list”, its originally from the Swedish association of Illustrator & Graphic Designers “Svenska tecknare. ww.svenskatecknare.se

First a few words on copyright
Respecting the work of the originator goes without saying for anyone seriously interested in purchasing pictures. Copyright law can be summed up in two words: Ask first! The Copyright Act affords copyright owners protection over their work, in this case the depiction of a motif, in the same way as the Designs and Patents Act affords protection over various types of inventions. The Copyright Act covers both analogue and digital use of pictures. A PICTURE includes many types of images, such as photos, drawings, illustrations or collages. The work delivered to you by the originator is to be considered the original.

1. What am I buying?
When ordering a picture you are only acquiring the right to use it in a specific manner. All other rights of use — THE COPYRIGHT — always belong to the originator.

2. Who owns the picture?
The ownership of the picture always remains with the originator. If you wish to keep the picture, you have to reach a special agreement with the originator.

3. How may the picture be used?
The picture may only be used in the manner agreed upon with the originator. This may pertain to a certain number of printed copies with a specified distribution, or publication on the Internet during a specified period. If any changes are made subsequent to the agreement, the originator must give his or her consent.

4. How about using the picture several times?
As soon as the picture is to be used more than once, the originator must be notified. Remember that using a picture several times may entail further costs.

5. Can I make alterations to the picture?
No alterations may be made to the picture without the consent of the originator. This includes cutting, retouching, digital manipulation as well as other methods. However, there are instances where a certain amount of cutting is allowed, providing the content is not distorted. In these cases the originator must be informed in advance. When the picture is used in an editorial context, or as information, the name of the originator MUST accompany the image. When used in advertisements, the name OUGHT to be printed.

6. For how long is the picture protected?
The sole right of use remains protected for seventy years following the year the originator died. A photograph that is not deemed to be a work of art, is protected for fifty years after the year it was produced. For an image to be deemed to be a photographic work of art, it must reflect individuality, originality and a distinctive character. This means that two individuals are never able, independently of one another, to produce the same picture.

7. Am I allowed to produce new copies?
Additional copies of the picture may not be produced without the consent of the originator, be it in newspapers, other printed material, as photocopies, or on the Internet.

8. Am I allowed to transfer the picture to a digital media?
Transferring the picture to a digital media is equal to producing a new copy. This also includes the transfer of a picture from one digital system to another and the printing of such a picture. As a consequence, prior consent of the originator is mandatory. Nowadays, the digitisation of pictures is an integral part of the printing process. When the originator consents to the printing of a picture the use of this digitisation is said to be inherent. However, any other use of the digitised picture is not allowed, and it must be removed after the printing is completed.

9. What about buying a picture from an archive?
When buying a picture from an archive, you are only acquiring the right to use the picture in a specific manner. After using it, the picture must always be returned without having been damaged. If the picture is used again, the prior consent of the originator must be obtained.

Hope this helps.

Stefan Lindblad
Illustrator, artist & graphic designer.

Massive Attack – still one of the greatest songs

2011-09-27T20:02:00.001+02:00

Tony Bennet & Amy Whinehouse duet

2011-09-27T19:32:00.001+02:00

While doing finishing touches to an illustration for a editorial illustration

The Verve

2011-09-23T19:57:00.001+02:00

Still as good as when it first came out

Where I was in september, 2001

2011-09-10T12:49:00.001+02:00

Many people know what they did September 11, 2001. I sat at a local café at Birger Jarlsgatan, close to Stureplan in Stockholm, SWEDEN. The Café was owned by a Russian couple that had moved to Sweden and Stockholm town from Moscow in Russia. At the café great staff/baristas worked. One being an American former marine soldier making the best coffee you could imagine together with a Samoan tattoo artist from New Zeeland, and another guy from Teheran in Iran who later won the barista award for making Sweden's best Caffee Latte. A great gang of people in a very tiny café/coffee shop. People with their own experiences of life and cultures. And we all agree how great it was that the cold war had come to an end and a Russian and American could work together (considering the history of the then recently ended Cold War). It was beautiful in a way. It all felt so great. And we all became kind of friends, especially the American and New Zeeland´er and I. And I was a regular customer coming for coffee and a chat basically everyday – as well as sitting and reading the newspapers and drawing in my sketchpad being the illustrator and artist I am. It was one of those great places sadly removed and now its another shop entirely.

World trade Centre exist in Stockholm, Sweden too. Its next to the central station in Stockholm. A tiny place where business men meet, like a smaller congress, or fair if you like with studios you rent to have business exhibits, or used to be. But its a fairly tiny place and I would say very anonymous for most people passing by.

When the first plane crashed into the first tower I sat and read the “Dagens Nyheter”, a Swedish daily newspaper. Two young teenagers, two guys sat next to me and suddenly his mobile phone called. And 2001 mobile phones was not everyman´s assessorie just yet. His father called and and the response I heard was the guy screaming, “Fan (Fuck), its war”. His friend constantly not understanding what was going on and joked around with him while he was talking on his phone saying “Its fucking real, its war. They are bombing the World Trade Center". His friend continued to joke. I thought to myself “bombing the World Trade Center, at central station??? What?”

Where I sat, a bomb should still had been heard although I sat at another part of town. The guy continue and told his friend to listen “They are bombing New York, its fucking war, can you get it and shut up”.

I instantly rushed to the subway/underground station and whent to my home and turned on the TV. Just when the second plane crashed into the building. I was in chock watching what I saw. My girlfriend Mia´s dad called me up, I called Mias work and she said she said she and all her colleagues was trying to watch TV and going on-line to the Internet newspaper website.

And then I started to see people jump on live TV sent across the Atlantic ocean where I sat in another country entirely watching it on a TV. The world was suddenly very close.

After a while, when the immediate chock was loosing its creepy scary grip on my entire being, I started to feel afraid about those Americans I personally know and one being a domestic pilot for TWA at the time. And the other being a woman friend. And a day later I believe, Sweden being 6 hours ahead of NYC, USA, I finally via email got hold of her and she told me her cousin was fine and that her husband was working at Ground Zero taking care of dead bodies. It felt so surreal

It was so horrible and words will never be enough to tell what I felt. And I will never forget that day.

Ps. Yesterday I saw a reportage on CNN international edition about an american journalist who printed out colour photos of the world trade center attack, and how he when´t to Afghanistan to show the pictures to local Afghans. To see if they know what the pictures where showing and what impact they had had. Of all the people he met only one (1) police chief knew what the picture was and what it ment. And this is 10 years later. One elder, older Afghan man thought it was a bomb/fire on a house in Kabul. As the journalist said, the guy definitely never visit Kabul either, not knowing how Kabul looks like.

Now my question is why havent the Afghans been informed earlier through all these 10 years? But that is another text entirely.

Are Republicans in USA undemocratic?

2011-09-05T11:35:00.001+02:00

As a Swede living in the country of Sweden, I am used to live in a very free open society, where democracy is very strong to say the least. In my opinion Sweden is more politically democratic and open than the country of USA, although Americans in USA would think differently – and most definitly Fox News Channel. Now, no country is perfect, and nor is Sweden, but on a whole, its more open here than there – thats my opinion anyway. (Here is the Swedish government website in English, click here)

For example to simply vote in an election in Sweden, you don't have to go and register to vote, you simply bring your ID, identity card and show it to a person sitting in the school or at post-office handling the votes coming in. You grab the vote ticket for the party you like to vote for, and you are done when you enclose the envelop and drop it in the voting box. This in itself make it much easier and with less barriers to get voters to actually go and vote – one of the keystones in any democracy – voting. The more hinder in the way, the more the law of human laziness gets in the way. And in Sweden they work to make it even easier to vote – via your cell phone. This will work in a high tech country like sweden, but not in all countries probably. For example many people today in sweden send in a “agree sms” to the tax authority when the taxes are to be filed and sent in. No paper and in todays swedish socciety it cant be much easier than that.

Today I read an article in a Swedish newspaper about the obstacles Republicans in USA are creating to actually hinder people to go and vote - "The GOP on voting".

The article in original Swedish text http://blogg.aftonbladet.se/omvarlden/2011/09/sa-ska-obama-stoppas

Read the article using Google translate into English Click here > http.aftonbladet.se/.

The American states of Florida, Georgia, Ohio, Tennessee and West Virginia apparently are going to make it WAY more difficult to pre-voting, which we in Sweden call "post office voting". And more other obstacles are to come in place mentioned in the article, And in America these obstacles are intended to make it more troublesome to go and vote point blank. And it is apparently hitting hard on the less fortunate areas of society where voting places are few and the lines to vote are longer, and often go on for hours and hours.

Now, why are the Republicans endorsing such a policy of creating voting obstacles?
It is most definitely because they figured out that the more troublesome it is to go and vote, the less people will go and vote. And the more likely where people will go and vote are in the areas where Republicans are in majority - in the more economically fortunate areas, where it might not be as troublesome to vote.

Its a dangerous game, but I am not surprised as those who search for power use any necessary means to win – and now its the christian conservative groups in USA that seems to count.

A Tea Party Republican movement wouldn't work and get so much power in Sweden today as it does in the USA. And this is not only because America is supposed to be more religious as a country - Sweden is like most countries religious in one way or the other. No its probably because people in general in Sweden don't allow the religious party to get enough power. In Sweden we have been enlightened enough to hold religion out of politics. And hope it stays that way. Just look at any country who lets religion get absolute political power and worse – to rule.

And those who like to take power in America/USA are the religious christian conservatives backed by the entire republican party – it seems as they are members of the republican party. Now, all republicans are probably not religous in the way of like M. Backman and Sarah Palin, but the religious conservatives and Tea Party movement, are strong and thus letting their views and means to rule as much as they can. They are even fine with throwing america into poverty for the sole reason of ruling and gaining power – “no taxes”.

When I as a Swede look at America – and let me just add that I have met great friendly people in America when traveling in the US, and seen great things, and I have enjoyed the hospitality – and I have american friends as well, still I don't look at it as the promised land of opportunity for all people.

And what may go against popular belief of americans watching the Fox News Channel, not all people long to move to america. If I ever thought of living in another country. it would´nt be America, I would more think of England and the UK as a whole, or Italy, France, Germany, Spain and most other old western European countries – who wouldnt like to live in London, Paris, Berlin or the lovely countryside of Italy. All though we are different culturewise in europe, the air we breathe politically and freedom wise in my view surpass USA on so many levels.

Now, America could really be that promised and great country no doubt, but they have to really make a shift in how they view politics and how they work to get more people involved in the democratic process - like voting. They really must get the religion out of their politics.

If I would cry, then I would cry for American voters who still haven't got a proper voting system. They still have this hazzle of voting. A country who claim to be the greatest, they still cant get their voting system straight.
What a bummer.

Masking tech in Photo-Paint

2011-08-24T10:54:00.001+02:00

Just like to share a tip when masking a photo in Photo-Paint.

This summer a huge flying insect came right at me and after a while it was either me or it. My newspaper didnt stop itself and the insect fell on the car. I instantly looked at it and saw how big it was and took a photo of it.

Now months later I am using the photo and making an image of it. As part of an illustration I am working on.

When I took the photo I placed the insect on a paper sheet. But dispite it being a neutral colour background, its troublesome to mask the wing from the background. The colour of the wing edge and backgrund somehow have similar colour and the mask take too much of the wing. And when trying to compensate, other areas gets affected.

One way of solving this is to use the highly “professional” masking tool “The Magic Wand” and a new object (layer) as I like to do this very quickly.

Import or open the photo to a “New Image”.
Create a new Object in the Object Docker.
Use Magic Wand masking tool and mask the background around the insect
Select the new Object (layer) and go to the Fill tool (bucket) and choose white colour to fill the mask
Choose the Eraser tool.
Deselect the mask
Erase areas of the Object with white, and the wing now covered with white on the separate object, the wing will turn up nicely.
Fine tune the erased areas
Finished.

Now, either keep the mask on the new object (layer) or combine all objects (layers) into one.

Stefan Lindblad

Working music

2011-08-20T13:41:00.001+02:00

I know its another older song, but what a song to work with. And now I am working with a mixed media illustration. Coldplay

Mentioned on a blog I whent to read myself

2011-08-16T19:07:00.001+02:00

Fun surprise indeed. I whent to corelblogs.wordpress.com to read, and to Chantal McDonalds blog, when I suddenly see that she had refered to me and my blog, and giving a very nice comment about my work, thanks!http://corelblogs.wordpress.com/2011/08/12/goodbye-mac-hello-pc-3/

Chantal McDOnald is a Senior Graphic Designer at Corel who have made the switch from Mac to PC. Recomended read.

Stefan Lindblad

Warren Buffet is a sensible and clear minded person

2011-08-15T20:17:00.001+02:00

I am a Swede, I am not an american. I could write a lenghty text what I think about american politics in regard to Tea Party and Fox News, looking at america from outside the US. This time I wont. What I will do though is to link to an excellent article written by the third richest man on this planet – Warren Buffet, published in NY Times. What would be interesting is to hear Tea Party heads and republican candidates telling Warren Buffet in the face what he would do if they raised taxes for the mega rich like himself. Read what he says himself. Ask yourself why and which agenda they lead.

http://www.nytimes.com/2011/08/15/opinion/stop-coddling-the-super-rich.html?_r=1&hp

Stefan Lindblad

What a great song to work to – Enrique Iglesias – Hero

2011-08-11T17:13:00.001+02:00

While sitting and finishing off a vectorizing job of a logotype and making a new illustration work at the same time, it hits me what a great song to work to “hero” by Enrique Iglesias really is.

Stefan Lindblad
Illustrator, graphic designer & artist

My New illustration for a New Website for Writers coming soon – Developmenthell.com

2011-08-09T09:58:00.001+02:00

Soon it all begin… My New Illustration for a New website for Writers coming soon, sep. 2011. Here a detailed sneak preview of the illustration. More to come. www.developmenthell.com

Stefan Lindblad
Illustration, graphic design & art

Frank Sinatra – One for my baby

2011-08-08T11:03:00.001+02:00

Miles Davis Quintet - It Could Happen To You

2011-08-06T19:00:00.001+02:00

Miles Davis Quintet - It Could Happen To You

Stefan Lindblad

"I Could Write a Book" Frank Sinatra

2011-08-06T18:57:00.001+02:00

"I Could Write a Book" Frank Sinatra

Stefan Lindblad

How to be an illustrator and graphic designer

2011-08-04T13:30:00.001+02:00

Thinking of starting out like an illustrator, graphic designer or something in that line?

I recieve many questions sent to me through emails via my website and blog´s in both swedish and english language. Allthough its fun to hear from people around the world, unfortunatly I dont have the time to answer all question directly in private emails. This is simply because I work a lot with my own illustrations and graphic design and other work related assignments.And running my own budiness really as you probably understand.

I do understand the importance of looking for proper information for anyone starting out as an illustrator, artist, graphic designer and all other related work in the field one have when freelancing, and starting once own business. I have been in the same situation myself.

I get questions where people like to be my assistant, which I always have to say no to. I simply dont have the time or possibility to offer such job. Regardless if it would be a payed or non-payed job.

Many people ask me “what to do and how to do it” when they dream about becoming- or are just starting out. Sometimes which schools to go to, or just anything. Therefore I try to write about this topic from time to time on my Swedish and English version language blog´s. But there are websites that go into this topic more deeply than I, such as http://www.computerarts.co.uk, an excellent magazine by the way.

When it comes to being an illustrator, graphic designer and artist who like me also make print originals, vectorizing etcetera my suggestions are these:

Its always difficult to tell someone else which way is the best fit for them. We are all very diffirent in personalities and we dont necessarily like to do the same kind of things. If you lived in Sweden I would start by recomending certain schools specifically for graphic design, illustration and so forth. Therefore I would recomend you to start looking for such in your own country, community and so forth. And the website mentioned.
Personally I am self tought in illustration and graphic design, and it have worked for me. For others it wont work. Its very personal on which way that suits best, but schools are always a good start no doubt. But regardless if you would go to a school or no school, its always up to oneself to explore and learn, and to keep study along the way. Being self taught dont mean no studies. I would say I have studied both theoretically and practically a lot. More than many people at first tmay think, and at times more that those who goes to schools even. Its much due to my own interest but also because as a self taught you have to catch up things much quicker and search more by your own, and not being served by a tutour/teacher on which books to read and so forth.
I have been running my own freelancing business as an illustrator and graphic designer and artist since 1997. Regardless if you make it into a school or not, you dont have to feel inferior to anyone if you wouldnt make it to a school. Consistency and hard work togehter with an open mind, and having fun, will pay itself in the end. Some periods you make money and some you dont.
Try to look for inspiration. Both within the business and outside the business. Inspiration is all around us. In real life, books, movies, TV, Radio, talking to people, meeting people, the internet and so forth. Loook and you will find. Have an open heart and mind and try to have fun.
Take your work serious and try not to work for free or bad pay. There is one thing about coming into the business which can be hard enough, but to accept bad pay or work for free can be as bad. The client you make work for for bad pay, will 99% of the time never give proper pay in the future. They already know they got you for coffee money. Hence why you should look for associations and websites mentioned below
Keep contact with others with the same interest in your community, friends, town and country. Your own country as well as abroad. Have a open mind. Love cultures and culture from other countries and societies as well as your own. See to that you dont get narcissistic, but go broad minded. If you stick to much to your "own world", you will loose sight.
One great place of course is the internet where you can sit and look at others work from all over the world. And look at work from diffirent periods and centuries. Whats in fashion changes and sometimes comes back. You will evolve your own creativity this way.
See to that you know your tools. Both traditional media like paint, paper, pencils, crayons but also computer graphics media. I use CorelDRAW and Photo-Paint part of CorelDARW Graphics Suite for all my work basically. Others work with Adobe software like Photoshop, InDesign and Illustrator. or Corel Painter. Whatever tools you use - learn them.
Many times you learn by doing. But see to that you learn properly. See to that you give your clients proper material. If you dont it can backfire and you will loose clients due to bad originals. You can be the best artist but if you deliver lousy work for print you will loose credibility - and you might not like to learn that it was because of yourself you lost that specific client.
Website to look for and get a lot of great inputs from are http://www.coreldraw.com, http://www.icograda.org, http://www.imaginefx.com, http://www.computerarts.co.uk, http://www.digitalartsonline.co.uk/, http://www.cgchannel.com, www.conceptart.org
Look for associations for illustrators and graphic designers in your own country. In Sweden we have http://www.svenskatecknare.se and around europe there many associations like these. And the same in other countries, thats why http://www.icograda.org is one suggested website, look in their member section

Stefan Lindblad
illustration, art, graphic design, print originals, layout, vectorizing and more

Call me cranky – but smokers at cafés in the morning?

2011-08-02T10:29:00.005+02:00

Call me cranky if you like, but smokers at cafés in the early morning at cafés can really make the mornig coffee and start of a workday to be awfully less enjoyable. I dont care if its going to be illegal to smoke outdoors at public spaces. I wont be your "Moliere" to have the right to blow smoke into my face.

As I sit at a outdoor café enjoying the morning with coffee as I write this having a sandwhich and a cardemum bun, looking at the passers by heading to their work. Reading the morning paper on paper and online. Preaparing myself for a new working day

Then comes the smokers. Arrgh.

Both a he and a she pics up their cig package and breathe in their first smoke, hold it for a second and then blows out the smoke.

They enjoy and I, well I sit and cough, and cough again. Telling myself its a free world. When I cough again the smokers dont give a fuck and inhale and exhale their toxic smoke once more.

Living in a city you learn that you have to respect others – but smokers they are like drug adicts – they close their mind to the outside world, neglects it and just go “me, me, me”.

Perfectly nice people going very egoistic and self centered when they smoke. Talk about double nature.

“Oh boy, here comes another one, fuck!”

Stefan Lindblad

Alesso my nephew, the new DJ Swedish House Maffia

2011-08-01T15:10:00.001+02:00

I knew Alessandro, my nephew (brothers son) was into music and he had told beforehand what was going on for him in regard with Swedish House Maffia music scene. A lot of fun no doubt, and as always as an uncle you get proud over your own blod. Alesso as he calls himself as a musician is an absolutly great guy, and anyone knowing him knows it.

Here´s a review I just found

http://www.ibiza-spotlight.com/night/reviews/2011/review_alesso_at_pacha_i.htm

Alessandro, Rock on!
You uncle,

Stefan Lindblad
Illustration, graphic design & art

Change operating system on regular mobile phones and smartphones - not an option

2011-07-19T10:20:00.001+02:00

Why are we not given the opportunity to change operating systems on mobile phones and the new smartphones. Me for example I dont fancy the touchscreens on smartphones for typing. I like to press buttons, and keyboards in general have always been important to me when buying a laptop, in addition to all other important parts that make up a computer.

Nokia has always offered keyboard with buttons, as long as I can remember anyway. At the same time when I look at the phones with a keyboard that Nokia sells it's the Symbian operating system and I am not particularly interested in that. This fact alone, the Symbian operating system, keeps me away from buying a Nokia with a keyboard right now.

If in the future I buy a mobile smartphone with Android operating system, it's the same thing - I can not switch to Symbian or Windows mobile or the future operating system whe havent heard of today.

I like choices but the mobile phone market refuse to give me this option. Maybe they never thought of this opportunity to begin with. Maybe its some sort of logistics or other reason behind it. Maybe they sell enough phones anyway. But to me when I look at that Nokia phone with a proper keyboard and I read “Symbian”, I go no, no.

This is particularily boring considering they now have a new CEO who have close connections with Microsoft and they apparently now work together in some sort of constellation.

Stefan Lindblad
illustration, graphic design & art

Hope Solo–great article about a great football player–what a life journey

2011-07-15T17:41:00.001+02:00

You may not read Swedish language, but do take the text in the article and use Google translate, and you will read an article about one heck of a great player in football/soccer, regardless if its women or mens football. And what a life journey she have made. The article by fellow Swede Simon Bank is movie-ish somehow.

A movie about Hope Solo should be made pronto.

http://www.aftonbladet.se/sportbladet/fotboll/landslagsfotboll/damvm2011/article13327288.ab

Stefan Lindblad

Ever heard of “Problems Steps Recorder”

2011-07-15T09:32:00.001+02:00

Ever heard of “Problems Steps Recorder”?
Me neither until today when I got a tip from Adrian J I know from a Corel forum we both visits.

And I think you will remember it too now if you try it out, and if you like myself sometimes have to explain to others which steps you made in a program. Like reporting a bug defect.

“Problems Steps Recorder” (PSR) is found very easily via Windows 7 search field in the Start menu. Simply write “PSR” and there it is. Now when you are ready simply start recording your steps, stop recording and save in a folder on your computer. It will save as a ZIP file. Using your email program send the ZIP file to your IT-support, beta testing group, friend or collegue. Well anyone in need of it. And when they recieve the zip file they will view the file in a internet browser. Easy!

This will be very helpfull if you work in programs such as CorelDRAW, Photoshop and Microsoft WORD – and any other program fro that matter where it may take time to write down and explain in text all the steps you made.

It will save you a lot of time.

Personally i useally write down and attach a screen capture (video) using a screen capture program. Which is great. You can talk and show as you explain, like in any movie. The “Problems Steps Recorder” will add an extra flavor to it.

Stefan Lindblad
Illustration, graphic desing and art.

Bach on my cell phone as ringtone

2011-07-06T17:07:00.001+02:00

It just hit me again, when emailing Jon C in London, that about 15 years ago I had a ringtone on my then mobile phone. Ringtones wasnt high tech at that time, but it was a “truddilutt” as we say in swedish composed by Bach.

Problem was that I had difficulties to answer the phone, because I simply coulndt shut down Bach could I.

Stefan Lindblad

Read about Mac vs PC and Corel software

2011-07-06T10:53:00.001+02:00

Today I read a blog post I thought nice to read while having coffee, waiting for the car mechanic to call me.

I wrote a comment to that post, here is what I wrote and here is also attached the post itself.
http://corelblogs.wordpress.com/2011/07/04/goodbye-mac-hello-pc/
And where I originally found the post.
http://coreldraw.com/blogs/gerard/archive/2011/07/06/goodbye-mac-hello-pc.aspx

"/// Hi Chantal McDonald,
Liked the post you wrote. And insightful it is.
I presently sits at a McDonalds in Stockholm, SWEDEN having a nice cup of properly grind whole coffee beans brewed coffee. A sandwhich with whole wheat, big sallad, ham, tomato and cheeze. Its clean and nicly furnished and the sun is shining this lovely summer day.
We get surprised everyday dont we.
I am an illustrator, graphic designer and artist. Been using CorelDRAW and Photo-Paint since 1997. And have loved it ever since. I have used Photoshop when not infront of my own computer. In 1995 yes the PCs looked horrible. Dull and simply felt “warzaw pact – Eastern europe pre 1989″.
I wrote an article that was published in 1999-ish in a magazine for the Swedish association for illustrators & graphic designers, talking about similar things/approach. Mac are great computers and they make great design – but they do all look similar all the time. It must be both hard and easy to be the chief deisgner at Apple.
Stefan Lindblad
canvas.nu
stefanlindblad-english.blogspot.com /// "

Stefan Lindblad

My website and email is up and running again – thank you Webhost Surftown!

2011-07-06T10:21:00.001+02:00

Wrote earlier the other day aout my website www.canvas.nu / www.stefanlindblad.com due to the severe flooding shut down large parts of Copenhagen, Denmark. My webhost www.Surftown.se Have worked for days to get all their over 100 000 up and running again. Its been mad. Thank you surftown for the work you have done.

Stefan Lindblad

My own website and email is down due to webhost problems

2011-07-04T16:02:00.000+02:00

Due to extreme weather conditions in Copenhagen, Denmark where my webhost is located, and one of their servers being below bottom/street level, my website is down since friday night. Today Monday they say they hope all will be up and running again.

Read and watch pictures here for more information on the water floodings, rain fall and electric meltdown http://www.sydsvenskan.se/danmark/article1507071/Skyfall-lamslog-Kopenhamn.html

Stefan Lindblad

Adobe Reader, Acrobat have a PDF lenght limit for large image formats–CorelDRAW does not

2011-06-30T09:10:00.001+02:00

Adobe Reader, Acrobat have a PDF lenght limit for large image formats. In contrast to other viewers and programs such as CorelDRAW from Corel. Why is that?

If this isn't the fact then I may be misinformed. But if I am not, then you better use CorelDRAW if you are a sign maker or someone making large size image formats for billboards and signs displayed outdoors or your PDF viewer. CorelDRAW and CorelDESIGNER have always been well respected and widely used by sign makers in many countries around. Allthough commonly it is not refered to in some media.

This very topic came up in a discussion forum where Alan Drury at www.adsignwriting.co.uk in the UK/England and working as a sign maker, have encounter this very fact. He created in CorelDRAW X5 a digital banner size 6 x 0.5 meters (around 200 inches, CS5 apparently have a limit around 220 inches) . But noticed that while CorelDRAW, program of CorelDRAW Graphics Suite , can easily both create and read/view huge sizes in inches and meters, he couldnt use viewers from Adobe. So he had to use another program for viewing.

But again why is that limit there?

One reason may be that Adobe Illustrator and Adobe In design can not create and handle such large size documents/images. And if this is true its probably just another situation where Adobe is as always mostly adobe centric.

If you use readers, viewers from other companies then you are fine.

So, if you are using a software such as CorelDRAW and CorelDESIGNER that you can create LARGE images and Documents with, the go ahead and Publish the file to PDF and open the files in other companies programs such as RasterLink 5 (Minimak´s RIP) or CutePDF or Foxit Reader.

Stefan Lindblad
Illustration, graphic design & art

Tourist, visiting Stockholm, SWEDEN? Hotel in Stockholm Enskede?

2011-06-24T12:26:00.001+02:00

A hotel I see several times a week when I go shopping is Maud's Hotel in Enskede in Stockholm, SWEDEN. It's near where I live and buy food. It takes me about 2 minutes by bike and 10 to walk to the ICA food store, where Maud's hotel is located opposite of the green lush roundabout

Had I searched hotels I had looked at this particular hotel. And I see tourists from other countries in the region. “Enskede Gård” and the surrounding area is a green residential area with a special story. Quiet nice residential area with excellent travel communications of any big mayor city. Subway, bus and car if you come with it. And so bike and walking of course. In the very near there are local restaurants of both the simple but pleasant variety. Everything from Thai "Sockenplans thai" to Swedish food at Enskede Inn – “ Enskede Värdshus.

Can recommend the little Thai kiosk for take away and the simple outdoor eating in the summer behind the ICA. Close to the local sports club facilities, football – simply excellent thai food! Behind a forested area beyond the ICA's Enskede stadium and with a view to glimpse of the grand Globe arena, and Globen Shopping mall and the City limits close by. And the new Stockholm Football/Soccer arena. Bike into towns largest island “ Södermalm “ takes 15-20 minutes at a leisurely pace. Speed takes you there in 50-10. If you choose to walk a bit, about 10 minutes and goes along lush forest trails in very sharming, residential area or one of the main roads, you can quickly get to Enskede Riding centers, Ridsällskap. An old horse riding school with both older and modern buildings. At the edge and part of a very green lush park with allotments where people plant their food and flowers and what have you. Typical for Stockholm. A nice little wild-ish park. In the park is the old private house that named the whole area to “Enskede Gård”. All worth a look if you still live near Maud's hotel. And great areas to run in. If you bring a dog, consider the leash when many of the areas have dogs or maybe someone who is riding their horse from the riding school. Moreover Enskede racket hall where among other things can play tennis indoors and outdoors and badminton, squash, gym etc.

And bakeries. A bakery with a café within nice walking distance. The one a bit further away is called the Old Enskede Bakery. 10- 15 minutes walk from Maud's hotel - if you know the road. On the way to the World Hertitage Cemetary “Skogskyrkogården”. A pleasant walk through the old houses, “Villa city” as its called in Swedish (translation) with lush green and nice private gardens to go with them. Here is a Map with Street View. Old picture but it works. http://kartor.eniro.se/m/aPPWR. Another café closr to the Mauds hotel but not as charming spot is Gateau BAKERY SHOP & CAFÉ. Street View http://kartor.eniro.se/m/aPPoU Expensive, but good bread. The least charming spot in Enskede Gård – “Sockenplan” roundabout, it is a transit spot.

Close, next door to the “Skogskyrkogården World Heritage” is another quaint, tiny café & bakery “Enskede Bakgård”. 15-30 minutes walk with outdoor seetings, and entrance behind the house is this “Bakgården”, street view http://kartor.eniro.se/m/aPP3o, take the main road/street called “Sockenvägen” from the Sockenplan roundabout and you are there in 15-30 depending on your walking speed. A nice spot before or after the visit to the world heritage site.

This year, 2011, is still the ongoing pirate exhibition, "Who is Pirate" at the Maritime Museum “ Sjöhistoriska Museet “. Large scale illustrations I made, illustrated, which are an important part of the exhibition. The “historial part”.

Stefan Lindblad

Illustrator , graphic designer & artist – who lives in Enskede.

Nigeria Letters coming your way again?

2011-06-23T14:45:00.001+02:00

Once again the so called Nigeria Letters Scam is coming my way again. This time it wasnt a buisness deal they were offering, this time its a dying woman who apparenlty like to WILL/donate all her money to me personally. Yeah right!

Sadly people fall for this scam again and again. Here is a reportage at the american ABC News. Look at it and please dont fall for this.

What is illustration for you?

2011-06-18T10:20:00.001+02:00

When an entrepreneur,someone looking for an illustration and thinks illustration how do you picture it infront of you.

A better customer I have (nice and all that, who now ends his current employeer unfortunately) called me for two assignments lately (that I made and delivered), All though I didnt initially thought so much about the meaning, on my part, when he said: "we did not know how we would image-wise layout and present this article, so we were thinking of an illustration as a solution." I took no offense, but the comment like this is very common among many newspaper editors and art directors.

I was happy to do the illustrations. And the customer was satisfied and happy, but what do the words stands for, what do they tell?

Another much less good client, art director, who worked at another newspaper magazine (idg sweden) saw illustration only as decoration and especially nothing that could be used for illustrating a serious subject in an article, only photos could do that she said. After a brainstorming/storyboard meeting with the rest of the editorial staff, she asked me and the photographer to stay for a minute and told us in the face, "if I ask for a carrot then I want a carrot and no artistic carrot".

I still hope this comment is not a common attitude among editorial staff at newspaper & magazines.

She had clearly never opened the eminent magazine WIRED. www.wired.com.

Illustration may very well be "a carrot is a carrot is a carrot" (paraphrasing " Getrud Stein), and product images for example to IKEA packages is not there to be artistic. But the illustration of an article can be there to really highlight a topic or product. Many times in a way that photos can not and vice versa.

If you are a client assigning illustrations, how do you picture illustration, and which meaning does it have for you and all that.

In any case - I do most types of illustration, do not hesitate if you have anything on your mind

.
Stefan Lindblad
Illustration, graphic design, art

CorelDRAW Graphics Suite X5 service Pack 3

2011-05-20T19:28:00.001+02:00

Here quoted from the official Corel Community, the release of Service Pack 3 (& 1).

For Swedish users in Swedish language, read quick translation by me here.
För svenska användare på svenska läs här http://stefanlindblad.blogspot.com/2011/05/coreldraw-graphics-suite-x5-service.html

Original text and announcement read here http://coreldraw.com/blogs/gerard/archive/2011/05/20/next-service-pack-for-x5-coming-soon.aspx

Official SP3 – service pack for X5 is now officially released
This update is a cumulative update that includes all previous patches and fixes.

Download from here> http://www.corel.com/servlet/Satellite/us/en/Content/1153321224268?pid=1259872370151

Finally its official, the new service pack 3 for X5 is available. And just to make sure everyone gets something, we will actually be releasing multiple service packs over a very short time period, making sure that all of the following applications benefit from the same

CorelDRAW Graphics Suite X5 Service Pack 3
CorelDRAW Premium Suite X5 Service Pack 3
CorelDRAW Home & Student Suite X5 Service Pack 1
CorelDRAW Essentials X5 Service Pack 1
Corel DESIGNER Technical Suite X5 Service Pack 1

After having applied the latest service pack, your version number will be 15.2.0.686 for CorelDRAW, Corel PHOTO-PAINT and Corel DESIGNER, and it will be 2.0.0.686 for Corel CONNECT.

To give you an idea of what is coming, here is a list of the main changes that will be included:

Suite Wide

You can export large bitmaps by using the Export for Web dialog box.
You can now open JPEG-compressed TIFF files that were exported from PhotoZoom.

Corel DESIGNER X5 and CorelDRAW X5

When moving a group with Envelope or Perspective effects applied to objects, you will no longer encounter display issues.
CMYK colors are maintained in mesh fills after grid or intersection settings are changed.
Grey pixels no longer appear when fountain fills with no outlines are converted to bitmaps.
When you zoom in and out while using Adobe CMM, CMYK spot colors in objects filled from the document palette are now displayed properly.
Pantone colors in the Document palette are saved as Pantone colors not custom spot colors.
English symbols are placed correctly in Hebrew text.
Pasting large amounts of Turkish text into a paragraph text frame no longer crashes the application.
Anti-aliasing is applied consistently to both objects and text converted to objects.
The Virtual Segment Delete tool recognizes the correct part of the curve to be deleted.
Mesh fill sizes are maintained when a file is saved to version 14 and re-opened.
Zooming in and out on a bitmap with transparency no longer crashes the application.
Convert to Bitmap controls on customized toolbars are enabled and disabled correctly.
Changing the page resolution no longer impacts the outline thickness that you specify in the Object Properties docker.
Hovering over un unselected Perfect Shape glyph with the Pick tool no longer crashes the application.
Panose font substitution is displayed correctly for files with missing fonts.

Corel PHOTO-PAINT X5

The application no longer crashes when you paste captures of your screen (Print Scrn) in new images and use mask tools to create new objects.
Performing Copy, Paste and Combine with Background tasks sequentially no longer crashes the application.
The Replace Color dialog box now correctly displays selected colors.
The application now starts faster when you double-click a .cpt file.
When you flip an object by dragging, its size is maintained.
Using the Channels docker with 48-Bit RGB files no longer crashes the application.
Combining objects using the shortcut key works like the docker or menu command.

Corel CONNECT X5

Font thumbnails are displayed correctly on Windows Vista and Windows XP.

Printing

Pages containing text under lenses print properly.

Filters

AI - Full colour pattern fills now export without overprint flag turned on by default.
AI/PDF/EPS - Spot colors in mesh fills are preserved accurately during import.
AI - Fills in open curves are preserved in imported files.
When you have GhostScript installed, EPS files converted to PDF no longer appear blank.
PDF - Symbol locations are maintained on export.
You can now open PDF files containing black-and-white images and save them without encountering a save error.
EPS files converted to PDF files are imported correctly when you have GhostScript installed.
SVG file sizes have been decreased.

RAW libraries

The RAW libraries were updated to support the following new camera models:

Read correct camera WB from Nikon NRW and Samsung SRW files
High-ISO images from the Samsung WB2000
Nikon D3100, D7000, P7000
Panasonic FZ40, FZ100, LX5
Samsung WB2000
Nokia X2
Canon SX120, PowerShot G12
Hasselblad H4D
Sony SLT-A33, SLT-A55V

Twitter plugin

2011-05-03T10:22:00.001+02:00

Testar att använda Twitter plugin för min bloggservice.
Testing the Twitter plugin for my blog psoting service.

Stefan

Dogs stopped but children & adults ... the real sniffles – which one are the worst contaminators

2011-05-03T09:25:00.001+02:00

Every time a disaster strikes in the world, such as a shopping mall falling to pieces, collapse, there is a dog and its handler on site to look for people to rescue. At least in 99.99% of all cases as we say to gard us with percantages.

As you continue reading this, remember I am a Swede living in the country of Sweden.

The very same shopping mall that collapsed, a second beforehand may possibly have stopped the dog and dog owner from entering. The reasons may be different perhaps, but generally it is said to be due to dogs could infect, contaminate or trigger allergies.

Now, how many times are you infected by a dog. How often are you infected by a child or an entire kindergarten. How often are you infected by sniffling running noses by adults or an entire family with children, who drag around the infectious diseases, if so only with a common flue, wherever they go during their child's first year. How often are you infected by infections from humans compared to dogs. Simple, people are the major carrier of infectious diseases.Monumentally worse than a dog will ever be.

The dog is man's best friend. The dog has meant a great deal for the development of human development, society and still do. Just look at all the situations where the dog has been used and still used in all kind of work situations.

Now one would think that I am only writing this for myself as myself and Mia have a dog now, Bella. One would think that but the thing is that it only highlighted even more after we got a dog, and when I take Bella out on the town - or shopping mall. And I felt like this before we got Bella.

Close to my home The Globe Shopping Mall, there is an animal / dog pet shop, but dogs are not welcome to the Globe Shopping Mall so hypothetically you would never be able to see a dog in a pet store. Well it is a bit cynical that it is like this, having a shop for someone who isnt welcomed.

I can buy that the store owners themselves can choose whether a dog may be allowed to the shop or not but a mall? Albeit owned by a company or similar, is in fact very much a public place.

I believe that dogs should always be welcome in public places, whether they are outdoors or indoors.

I believe we should show our best friends some respect, and allow them in.
They useally dont drink coffee but they should be allowed to sit on the floor in the company of the owners drinking the coffee at the Shopping Mall café. If so only on the other side of the café fence.

Stefan Lindblad

The CoffeeCup company´s computer software

2011-05-02T11:41:00.001+02:00

Can it be any better really to name a company Coffee Cup?

I am an illustrator, artist and also do graphic design of book covers, among many things. I am heavy user of traditional media like pens and papers as well as computer software programs for all my artistic work, and simply running my own freelancing sole proprietor business.

And I am a big fan of coffee and tea – both at home and cafés, to work and just hang around.

Now I am a heavy user of CorelDRAW and Photo-Paint, as well as using other label software for additional work. Like my accounting program for example that I like, the Swedish BL Info Co. “BL Administration, and Expression web, and previously Dreamweaver since version 1.0.

Now, then there is that other company Coffee Cup.

Coffee Cup makes a lot of different computer programs. When I was shifting from Dreamweaver MX to Expression Web by Microsoft, I was looking for an alternative, simply because I like to not only use the big brands out of habit.

I looked at NVU and didn't like it. I learnt it a bit to help out a friend who had to learn it. SO I learnt to help him as I after all know HTML since 1999. But I continue to look at Coffee Cup software. Unfortunately I didn't find their HTML Editor / WYSIWYG program, being used to Dreamweaver. They didn't have that extra stuff I felt comfy with from before. But I kind of always come back to their website in hope to find something like I have before.

Currently I use their FTP program. (Expression Web FTP function and I are not good friends, but equally nice to not always open Expression Web to transfer all files). There is a free version which is great and then there is the payed version with extra functions worth the price tag. So if you like it to you could choose which version to use – free or payed.

Another fun program I like is their Free ZIP Wizard program. Now it is free, but why would I like to get that some may ask, after all in Windows there is a compressed folder program already installed. And then there is 7-ZIP. And of course then there is Corel´s classic “Win Zip” you pay for.

Well I like the easy and clean way of compressing a file and being able to add a password to the file. This is also possible in 7-ZIP for example, a program I also like. But Coffee Cup zip program is even easier – and is called Coffee Cup after all and you really cant beat that can you

Give Coffee Cup company a chance and look at their different programs. Maybe you find something today you like. They are also generous. If you buy a software you are eligible for free versions for eternity basically and they are very nicely priced. No Adobe price tag in other words.

Have fun

Stefan Lindblad

Encouraging words of illustrations & book covers designs I made for Swedish publishing houses

2011-04-27T17:29:00.001+02:00

Even I as an illustrator and designer of book covers like reactions to the books I have made illustrations and designs for.

Therefore, even more fun when I came back to a blog I came across by chance in 2010. Then lost the link to the book blog. And now again come back to it again after having lost the link.

(Book blogs in Sweden are many times runned like this particular blog, by librarians in different libraries across the country. These librarians are those who order and buy books to the school libraries. And they ofte review and comment, and suggest books)

It made my day to read that the book illustrations and designs reach out to the readers - and buyers, and do what they are supposed to – get readers to read and buyers wanting to buy. I am humble and pleased by the response.

Here is the link to the blog and the comments made in the post itself and the comments to the post. (Using google translate swedish to english)
http://translate.google.com/translate?hl=sv&sl=sv&tl=en&u=http%3A%2F%2Ffridsbokrescensioner.blogg.se%2F2010%2Fmay%2F2-niva-13-av-k-g-johansson.html%3F_tmp%3Da81aca342608dec9fba586208acc5e06b1d008cc

Ps. the blog posters post originally wrote about another book, and image of the book IS NOT mine. But the book of mine “Spelet”, (“The Game” in English) is mentioned and then below further comments from the reviewer/librarian/buyer to my comment of their text/review.

QUOTE//:

Posted by: Frid

Your illustrations are really what draws readers. Copies of the game is always on loan. We'll see how it will look like with Level 13, it is still too early to tell.

/Frid
@ 2010-06-29 19:52:58
…..

Glad to hear from you again. Unfortunately, it is difficult remember an illustrator's name in regard to the authors. Your link made me realize that you continue to affect my purchases for school libraries. Leif Jacobson MC-books I bought, in part because they may fit some guys tired of reading (Reluctant readers) but also for the cool front pages (have not read them myself). The negative is that Hegas books are so expensive! I recently read Ankh´s book “Festen” (“The Party” in English). We have a large audience for such books in schools. Glad to see that you have made the cover of one edition of Brites Lost Souls. Read it in the 90s. Good book but very homoerotic. Maybe not every vampire lover's first choice. I have now added your blog to bookmark, I get a bit more in control of your future production.

/Frid
@ 2011-04-17 14:27:59

// END QUOTE.

Matchbox twenty–great when working

2011-04-27T13:28:00.001+02:00

Presently working on four illustrations for a retail company in Sweden. After listening to the news, music was needed to cheer me up a bit. Match Box Twenty works.

Enjoy

Stefan Lindblad

Tony Bennett & Stevie Wonder–For once in my life

2011-04-24T16:12:00.002+02:00

Enjoy.

Stefan Lindblad

New book and new book cover–Berghs publishing in Sweden–VILLE & The Monster Pike

2011-04-12T15:44:00.001+02:00

Soon the book "Ville & monster pike" hit the shelves in the kids department, age 9 - 12 year olds. Or more specifically in September 2011.

The book is written by Martin Jonols, published by Swedish “Berghs Förlag” Publishing, and the cover is illustrated and designed by me Stefan Lindblad. Here is the front of the book cover. Later on you'll see the entire cover. The illustration goes around the entire book. A wraparound cover in other words. Front, spine and back. ISBN 978-91-502-1893-0.

The book is very new and will soon be available to buy – OBSERVE SWEDISH LANGUAGE. You will get more current and updated information here on my blog but mos definitly at the publisher's own website. The book is included in their latest spring catalog 2011. Read more here and see when it comes out. http://www.berghsforlag.se As you see in the picture, you can already imagine how the image continues to the other side, spine and back. For those interested: the text on the back and spine, and bar code, among other things will be added before the cover is finally finished and sent to the printer.

Stefan Lindblad
illustration, graphic design

Bad coffee at cafés

2011-04-01T12:09:00.002+02:00

I frequently visits the cafes around Stockholm, SWEDEN where I live, but despite this, I believe this can be applied to most cities around the country and the world.

Coffee (especially brewed coffee that is consumated in most homes and offices) is a Swedish national drink, (Sweden and Finland drink more coffee per capita than everyone else according to surveys popping up now and then), but the most common problem with brewed coffee around is that it is brewed but left to stand and burn for hours. Instead of brewed and served a la minute. And in the case of cafes serving Italian style of coffee (huge thing in Sweden of course) Cappuccino, Caffee Latte and so on – it is useally misstreated and badly packed in the portafilter (Portafilter is the handle containing the metallic bowl you put the grinded coffee in). Probably even the cleaning up, maintenance of the machines i bad.

Where coffee geeks claim a coffee grinder to be the most important, I would argue that it may well be the smallest problem of them all. If the coffee is not packed properly its a problem together with the grind, in that it doesnt only give a bad crema, but also a bad sloppy coffee taste. If the maintenance, washing up is bad same problem apply in that it may still give a nice looking crema, but still a bad sloppy taste. The previous coffees being made left resedue in the portafilter or something similar giving taste to the new. So a good crema doesnt imediatly mean a great cup of coffee.

And this we pay money for.

When I visit different cafés, meeting friends, work with my laptop, wacom tablet, sketchbook, reading, I get to see how the staff is working. Or in other words how they have been trained by their boss. After all the boss is the one that should know how things are supposed to be done, right…

Commitment
The work as a boss, manager, owner of the establishment means you expect the responsible above mentioned actually have shown, trained the staff in how things are expected to be done. What standard of quality they like at their company. Mostly though it seems they are their for the money and not the clients. Pennies in their pockets instead of joy and quality of service. They have instead, as it seams, neglected to all of this – traning the staff. On how to maintenance, cleaning up the machine park. Washing up continously during the day. How they grind beans to perfection or at least a decent level. To clean the grinder from old bean resedue to make it grind better and make room for new fresh beans. Change water to freash water. And so on and so forth.

I my may swear in church by saying this, but when I grabbed a coffee and breakfast with Mia when we were in Washington DC, in the old Chinatown district, at the local Starbucks we knew what we got. We knew it always tasted the same. Which was quite okay coffee and tea. Similarly, when we were in San Francisco, Phoenix, Berlin, London.

I know Starbucks have automated it all, and it really isnt so great, but its consistent. Which in my view is better than consisten down spiral quality.

A lot of complaints are raised about Starbucks and Caffee Nero and similar chains, but they keep some sort of standard. Regardless of how I personally think of the quality – again, its consistent. Staff seem to know how to do things at a minimum level. And allthough the coffee isnt the best, its still okey.

In Sweden coffee culture seem to have fallen to pieces. Remember its the national drink. And this regardless if its a trendy café at the posh street Nybrogatan/Karlavägen in Stockholm, or a coffee franshice chain at posh-tourist trap-center of town, street of Hamngatan. Staff may be nice but generally the coffee is a dissgrace of the name. It simply taste bad and sloppy made. Then there is another thing that some café owners are afraid of letting people with laptops sit and check whatever they check on their laptop, is another disgrace to the whole coffee culture experience.

The sad and bad how strange this may sound, it may not become better until Starbucks and Coffee Nero comes this way and set the bar – you see what level we are talking about, right?

Stefan Lindblad
Illustration, graphic design & art

Countries who again fail to save people of Libya?

2011-03-16T10:52:00.010+01:00

I am just an ordinary citizen of Sweden. In the north of Europe, Scandinavia. The old country of the Vikings.

Watching the live broadcast news I am appalled by the seemingly total lack of leadership by the countries in the UN Security Council. I am also ashamed by how little my own Swedish government is doing. Because I haven't seen much happening here either. They seem to do absolutely nothing to help the struggling people of Libya. Things may be happening as I write this, I just feel a new Rwanda is coming closer. I so remember when people were fleeing Bosnia and Croatia as the war in the 90´s was going on. With refugees arrived here, coming to the local regular café of mine at Nybrogatan, Östermalmstorg, were I took my breakfast from time to time. Hearing stories told to me by people who experienced them themselves. It was a very surreal experience in a way. They could have just arrived froma war zone madness and then sitting with me having a coffee. Talking with me a complete stranger. Telling me how they fled the canons and bullets - and death.

Here we have the awful Gaddafi family and the people supporting them, who for 40 years have constantly tortured and harassed, and now slaughtering its own people. Ghaddafi and his gang is every day bombing his own countrymen while telling them they should dance and be happy, instead of fighting him. Saying the people of Libya loves him. And this simply because they object his way of ruling. UN are member countries combined, who are there supposedly working for peace. And UN Security Council are countries representing not only their own countries but all of us, and who are there to protect and work for all peoples rights.

This time around I don't think its the USA, UK or French governments who are opposing helping Libya. Well there will always be one or two people who oppose, but on a larger scale I dont think so. But they still have to wait to get all countries in the Security Council to agree on a no-fly zone. Soon though there will be no need for it as Satan's appointed - Ghaddafi have killed every opposition. While the world have sit and waited doing nothing. The Arab league, a set of Arab countries have supported a no-fly zone. Now why dont we see any action?

If Ghaddaffi and his gang win over the opposition in this fight, by slaughtering his own people, and take back control over all towns in Libya once again, then what? Is it business as usual?

With what kind of blood on their hands will these few countries politicians and business men be wearing afterwards? Is it Russia and China who are against it all? Or are there more countries against it? Why isn't anything happening. What more do they need to make a decision?

Now, which countries are in the UN Security Council this year, blocking the rescue of innocent people from being killed and slaughtered. And saved from their 40 year long brutal dictator. What lack of leadership is hindering another human catastrophe. Who are these people?

Permanent members
China
France
Russia
United Kingdom
United States

Non-permanent members, but members of 2011
Bosnia & Herzegovina
Brazil
Colombia
Gabon
Germany
India
Lebanon
Nigeria
Portugal
South Africa

I wonder which of these countries are against the so called no-fly zone. I wonder what triggers them to object a no-fly zone. I wonder why they hinder the safety of innocent people being bombed and ripped apart and killed by their own so called government. I wonder what their fear and own agenda is based on to object the saving of innocent people being slaughtered.

How will I as a citizen of the earth we all live on, look upon these countries. I wonder. What are the people, citizens of these countries doing to tell their governments to act? Or do they simply not care? Will it again become another Rwanda?

Interesting to see and surprising as well are the different countries own history.
Some media in my own Country Sweden say its China and Russia who are against and stop the no-fly zone to come in to action. I am just an ordinary person. And I just wonder why once again the people who are their to supposedly govern lacks once again.

Some people will cry out that the west is only there if there is oil involved. To me regardless of oil or no oil, the people should get help to survive.

Stefan Lindblad

Remember this one – Bangles - or were you too cool for yourself

2011-03-09T16:24:00.001+01:00

Remember this one – Bangles - or were you too cool for yourself?
I remember it like it was yesterday. I listened to both Runaways and Bangles when a kid myself and these came out. While at the same time listening to all other cool music, rock, soul, funk and classical out there.

Simpky enjoy the song.

Stefan Lindblad
Illustration, graphic design, art

Need filters for Photo-Paint? – Filter Forge 2.0

2011-03-09T08:35:00.001+01:00

Need some new filters? Need ít for your Corel Photo-Paint version 10 - X4, I bet it work for X5 as well. Go get them at Digital Juice, or at least have a look at them. http://www.digitaljuice.com/products/products.asp?pid=1621

Stefan Lindblad
Illustration, graphic design & art

Paul McGee

2011-03-02T22:33:00.003+01:00

Paul McGee in St Albert, Alberta Canada and I knew each other without ever meeting in real life. We shared thoughts and rants as Beta testers of CorelDRAW Graphics Suite X4 and X5. Over 4 years time. I told him once he should come visit old Scandinavia, north of europe. It would had been nice to meet in real life. I remember how he wrote his last post the 22 january 2011 on both the beta forum and the public coreldraw forum. January 28th he passed away according to an obituary I read in the St Alberts Gazzette.

I remember how quite I felt it was in the beta forum, not hearing Pauls views on various issues and topics. So I started to look around and found the obituary. I later (read today) got it confirmed that he sadly had passed away. I honestly whished we had met in real life. I really appreciated him, the man I never met in real life, but only via text in Coreldraw forums. I always liked his signature line "Making my own and squashing bugs for others since 1961", and that he labeled himself as semi-retired. The line semi-retired got me to make an illustration out of that line. Viewable on my website under "Illustration>vector". (For the record, no portrait, only inspired of the text, as it includes a gun.)

Paul was an experienced fellow in his work.
I take the liberty to quote him, as it in a way tells in rythm how he sounded, and he himself published the text publically. I hope its okey with anyone closer to him: "In computers in just about every position known to man since about 1960--programmer, systems programmer, analyst, management, owner/operator of a data centre, consultant. Into computer typesetting and graphics, directly or indirectly, on and off, since about 1972. Corel Draw since version 4; Ventura since version 4.2. Now supposedly retired, but half a dozen clients flat out refuse to accept that as a fact."

Retired from 45+ years in computing in one form or another. Started out plotting weather maps by hand. Shook hands with an IBM 650 about 1960 by utter accident. Spent about 4 years programming weather analysis and forecasts on a Bendix G20. Manager of operating systems support for a while on IBM 360/370 systems. Developed use of computers in auditing at one point on Data General computers. Owned and operated data centre after 1981 with Data General MV8000 (second such machine in Canada). Drifted into a mixed bag of data processing, graphics, and publishing all intertwined together. Closed the shop in July 2006 after shipping the "last job" to Monaco, still having a hard time convincing some clients that I have retired. Have added DVD production to the mix, but dropped data processing--or at least almost dropped data processing.

Paul, I will never forget you. Peace!

Stefan Lindblad
Illustrator & artist
Fellow beta tester of CorelDRAW and Photo-Paint.

Coreldraw Macro CADtool4 - CAD tool like for CorelDRAW

2011-02-28T09:20:00.004+01:00

CADtool4 - get it here!

CorelDRAW no doubt is a very powerful illustration program. It is perfect to use for working with technical illustrations if you are into that. And in case you would need even more technical tools, for example EZ Metrics among features, then CorelDESIGNER the sister program of CorelDRAW could be an alternativ. Or you could buy the EZ Metrics macro from Unleashed.

Now as the title says - CADtool4, the Macro for CorelDRAW when you like that extra CAD like tools.
Its perfect for those who quickly like to create CAD like illustrations in a jiffy. For example Pipe Flanges to only mention one example.

CADtool4 is an excellent macro from MacroMonster.com, the brilliant macro-supplier I can highly recomend for macros regarding CorelDRAW and Photo-Paint.

Go get it! or at least go get a look of it. Look at more screenshots and read. And you will get the hang of it. Enjoy the fun!

Stefan Lindblad
Illustration, graphic design

CorelDRAW Graphics Suite X5 "The" book on Colour Management.

2011-02-24T18:27:00.001+01:00

CorelDRAW Graphics Suite X5
"The" book on Colour Management.

BUY THE BOOK HERE>

There is an all new color management interface for the CorelDRAW Graphics Suite X5. Making this publication a must read.

Author and Colour management guru David Milisock´s new book on Color Management in CorelDRAW Graphics Suite X5, Covers users using Windows XP, Vista and Windows 7.

Author David Milisock, owner of Custom Graphic Technologies Inc. in USA, explains in his own words: "This book is a complete description of how color management works in the CorelDRAW Graphics Suite X5. Learn how to make CorelDRAW and Corel Photo-PAINT coordiante with CorelDRAW X4 and older versions, professional applications and output devices. Color management for the web, presentation, print, expanded gamut printing, digital and offset."

BUY THE BOOK HERE>

Stefan Lindblad
Illustration, graphic design, vectorising & art

Buy book for reluctant readers

2011-02-22T08:41:00.001+01:00

Buy book for reluctant readers. Interest Age 8 - 14 years | Reading Age 6 - 7 years.

"Inside the Earth". UK. A book for reluctant readers. I made several illustrations for the short stories in the book.

http://canvas.nu/zencart/index.php?main_page=product_info&cPath=6&products_id=75

Buy the book directly from me and my own shop.
Price including shipping worldwide 6 euros.

Stefan Lindblad
Illustration, graphic design

Buy book for reluctant readers.

2011-02-22T08:39:00.001+01:00

Buy book for reluctant readers. Interest Age 8 - 14 years | Reading Age 6 - 7 years.

"Weird Creatures". UK. A book for reluctant readers. I made several illustrations for the short stories in the book.

http://canvas.nu/zencart/index.php?main_page=product_info&cPath=6&products_id=74

Buy the book directly from me and my own webshop.
Price including shipping worldwide 6 euros.

Stefan Lindblad
Illustration, graphic design

Stop & protest against Shark-finning , directly to the EU commision–or where you live.

2011-02-18T19:47:00.001+01:00

Shark-finning is one of those incredibly cruel things people do simply to let people have a cup of shark fin soup and make money. I personally don't understand why anyone in their sane mind like to support the cruel killing of sharks for having a shark fin soup.

You have the possibility to make a contribution in protesting and support those in the EU commission who tries to stop the shark-finning madness. Latest 21-2-2011 you can send an email with your thoughts in the matter. Making your contribution.

Consultation on the amendment of Council Regulation (EC) 1185/2003 on the removal of fins of sharks on board vessels. Link here http://ec.europa.eu/fisheries/partners/consultations/shark_finning_ban/index_en.htm

If you don't know how cruel this is, here goes. Fishermen go out and hunt for sharks. They drag them up on the board vessels, fishing boats. They cut the fins off, and throw back the sharks alive into the ocean without any fins to move them selves around. And they drops down to the bottom, letf to die slowly and painfully. Sharks can live up to a week until they die their slow death.

If you yourself eat shark fin soup, think again. If you work at or own a restaurant who serves shark fin soup, think again and stop this madness.

Here a few You tube clip of the cruel mad shark-finning.

Stefan Lindblad
Illsutartion, graphic design.

EGYPT IS FREE!!!

2011-02-11T18:22:00.001+01:00

Egypt is free form the dictator Mubarak.

Hurray!!!

If you have the possibility then try listen to Wael Ghonim´s interview today on CNN. (this is only a clip, not the whole) He made me cry.And I am a grown up man.

Thank you Wael for making me cry. Thank you all people of Egypt to make me cry of joy infront of the TV for the increadibly beutiful thing you accomplished: to get rid of your dictator!

Stefan Lindblad
Stockholm, Sweden.

Web hosting & old agreements – time to change webhost, they might be over priced

2011-02-08T11:08:00.001+01:00

HISTORY
I've had several different web hosting providers over the years. My first website was at the old Swedish classic "BIP", Bottnia Internet Provider, which was later acquired by grand SPRAY in the internet hayday, prior to the dot com bubble. I had a full 10 MB of BIP...back in 1997 that was a lot. It was a fun company with good support, nice people and I quickly got support from. Their source of revenue to provide free Internet & website - advertising. 1997 I bought my first account. In 1997, the internet was the wild west, but BIP did what they promised. Long after BIP disappeared and SPRAY bought BIP, I still had visitors to my current web site via the old web site link (with a longer dot filled domain name) at BIP / SPRAY. I had made a direct link to my new domain: www.canvas.nu, a domain I registered in 1998-99.

After Bip, 1998-99, I put up my website on a "real" web hosting Co. - whose phone number led to a guy's parent´s home in southern Sweden. And their voice mail. Sometimes the guy's dad replied. "Yes, he is not home right now but will be home soon". And so I continued through the years to change webhost to what we see today as real web hosting. And serious ones.

CHANGE WEB HOSTING - REVIEW AGREEMENTS
This brings us to what the title is all about - old contracts and agreements that never changes and therefore many times can be unnecessarily expensive.

Today I believe there is now no website, of which I've been asked to handle, finding web hosting on clients behalf, have any expensive contracts & agremeents anymore. And just two years ago I made the last move of a client's website into a better hosting company, in that their contract expired and I was asked to update and make the website and found that old badcontract still lurking around - bad for my client.

Every time I moved hosting company I have done so due to cost, technology and package solutions etc. The new has had better security, better solutions and better pricing.

At each change, the old web hosts held on to the old more lucrative contracts out of habbit, despite the fact that their packages had been upgraded with better pricing and better offer. And that despite you having been a loyal customer and should have been cared for. When they later have been bought up by other webhost companies, the agreements continued - which led to losing the customers when I moved their (my clients) web sites.

Over time, I stopped thinking about this, until yesterday when I discovered again how an American in USA sat with very expensive contracts on his webhost in the US. He got a shock when he went through the contracts. Several contracts had a price difference of up to $900. It was discovered when he was on a web forum and asked a completely different question . One thing led to another and he woke up it can be said brutally. Today, he is probably going through all agreements and simply doing as I did - change hosting company, over the counter as we say in Sweden, without even a discussion. He had one last respons with an offer from one of the current web hosts which was still incredibly expensive. It was an expensive cost, and awakening, for both him and the web host, as he had MANY websites / companies on this hosting company apparently.

So, review your contract for web hosts and dont be afraid to change due to technical issues, that useally sounds more than it really is. It is often much easier to change than you think.

Stefan Lindblad
Illustration, Graphic Design

Stefan Lindblad, month freelancer, in Swedish MAN magasin 2008

2011-02-01T16:37:00.001+01:00

This image, photograph, came before me today when I went through reference images for an illustration. It's from when I did a full page illustration for Swedish monthly mens “MAN magazine” in 2008. A mens magazine without nude women I may add.

My wonderful girlfriend Mia took this photo of me when we were sitting at London Heathrow Airport, waiting for our return flight to Sweden. Has become something of a signature image of mine ever since. If you happen to own CorelDRAW Graphics Suite X5 box/book, go to page 163, and look at the image i full colour for my article “Insights from the Experts – Book Illustration & Cover”.

Stefan Lindblad
Illustration, Graphic Design

Gullmars Gym and acut parking help

2011-01-31T23:40:00.001+01:00

Gym is used for training at, but sometimes it can be a helping hand when you least expected it.

Today, I met up with my mate Benny for a coffee at the local café. It was full at all the parking areas, except residential, which I temporarily parked on. I whent in and asked at the gym, Gullmar Gym, on the same street if they knew anything. They offered me to park for one hour at their temporary vacanct reserved spot. Thanks Gullmar Gym!

The gym is very nice and peacefull in a way, and very centrally located between Gullmarsplan & Globen Sports Arenas. More than worth a visit. Feels both professionall and personal as soon as you walk into the entrance. In addition a nice welcome when entering. Recommend a visit. Feels like one of those great spots, gym, I wished I found if I was traveling abroad.

Address: Grafikvägen 15, Johanneshov, Stockholm,SWEDEN
(Old Google image, but the correct address)

Stefan Lindblad
Illustration, graphic design

Finally: using the Lightbox feature on my website

2011-01-19T09:38:00.001+01:00

I first made my own website in 1998-99. First with the help of my friend Ingemar V. And the magic of linking, creating a link and mailto from my friend Pauls friend Annika´s boyfriend, who I met while Annika and myself got our scuba diving certificate from our friend Paul, back in 1997.

Since then I have used pop-up windows to show all my images/illustrations on my website. When the Lightbox 2 first came out and started to swamp the website of the world, I just felt I needed to get that to my own website. But I felt I never had the time to actually sit down and do this change, After all I have quite a few amount of images on my own website.

But finally! I have started the change and image by image the change is visable. And it really feels nice to get it up and running. Much better look and finally a html folder less to work with on my website.

Stefan Lindblad
Illustration, graphic design & art

Daler-Rowney, an artist & illustrators best companion

2011-01-14T09:25:00.001+01:00

When I first stumbled upon Moleskin sketchbook called Plain Journal I liked what I saw and loved to use it. At that time I found it just before it became such a hype around it here in Stockholm, Sweden. Moleskine Plain Journal is a great product and they make tons of fun and useful books to sketch, draw, paint, write, compose and plan the days in a calender. And which Moleskine user havent fell in love with the little leaflet telling even Picasso use to use Moleskine, I have! Its called story telling – and as its best.

All though I have bought several Moleskin Plain Journals to draw & sketch in, and even used their calender, still the companion that have affected me the most through my artistic life, since I was a kid, a toddler even is – Daler Rowney sketchbooks and pencils. No downtalk about Moleskine, only Daler-Rowney came before Moleskine came infront of me.

After having painted with oil colours since age 16 with preferably Swedish oild colour maker “Beckers” and a French and one Italian label - suddenly I bought a few tubes of acrylic colours “CRYLA” from Daler Rowney around 2005. Late discovery maybe, but what a find it was. The Cryla acrylic colour and I had a love affair, and I came to paint a whole series of acrylic paintings inspired by my trips made to Arizona, USA 2003/2004, painted in 2005-06 and onwards.

The same thing with the Sketchbooks and Pencils from Daler Rowney. They are always there at hand. Be it in in Sweden, England or Sedona, AZ in USA. They are there. I still have a sketchbook unused yet from Daler-Rowney bought in London, England at Cass Art at Kensington High Street –a nice litte art supplie store, where I also bought a delicate little box of pencils I still look at with joy. A little gem, a treasure.

No its not religious or fanatic even, like many Moleskine users out there seem to regard their Moleskine as- a religious cult. No the Daler-Rowney art supply is the perfect companion, friend, lover an artist and illustrator may need. They are there when you need them.

Thank you Daler-Rowney for making great art supplies!

Stefan Lindblad
Illustration, art & graphic design

Lost Souls novel by Poppy Z Brite–now as audio e-book, my cover art

2010-12-14T16:48:00.006+01:00

Stefan Lindblad, Illustration & graphic design cover Copyright 2010

This summer of 2010 I got to do the illustration, cover art and graphic design for the LOST SOULS novel by Poppy Z. Brite, meaning the audio e-book version, published by Cross Road Press. It was pure joy to do. Hope you all like it. You can buy the audio book via my own web shop, from where you then go directly to the page for the book publisher site for purchase.
The premiss for the book cover was to not make a typical blood spashed vampire cover. And it felt nice to get the opportunity to make it. The illustration and the overall design of the cover is inspired in part by New Orleans old french parts, Absinthe and the lost souls inhabiting it. To compare and view older paperback book covers go to Amazon, here>
BUY the book, Lost Souls by Poppy Z. Brite here >

UpdateI got information about articles reviews on this new edition of Lost Souls, of which I made the cover and covert art/illustration.
http://boingboing.net/2011/03/10/lost-souls-audio-ada.html
http://www.audiobookcommunity.com/profiles/blogs/lost-souls-listen-to-them-the
http://www.amazon.co.uk/Lost-Souls-Unabridged/dp/B004J08A04
http://www.whsmith.co.uk/CatalogAndSearch/eBooksProductDetails.aspx?productID=OD00050965925
http://crossroadpress.com/2010/12/22/lost-souls-poppy-z-brite-unabridged-audio/
http://lostsouls.crossroadpress.com/

Stefan Lindblad
Illustrator & graphic design

Juan Sebastian Elcano & Antonio Pigafetta

2010-12-10T18:09:00.000+01:00

I saw a historical documentary about Juan Sebastián Elcano & Antonio Pigafetta. Interesting story, and I just like to share it. Elcano, Pigafetta and Elcanos men was the first people to make a circumnavigated journey around the world. And after coming back home to Spain he whent on again on his and consequantly the worlds second circumnavigated journey.

The sad part that despite the first and great travel he and the crew made, they lost everything to the Spanish King coming back home to Spain - in 1500´s, to pay for the lost they hade made in form of the ships and so forth. Not for a minute letting them have their reward after their 3 year long circumnavigated journey around the world, as the very first human beings to do so. He started the trip as the second of command to Magellan, but took over after Magellan had been killed in the Philippines in a fight.

Its a very interesting life story and I recomnd the reading. For eas and start exploring about Elcanos life and accomplishment go to wikipedia.

And to read about Antonio Pigafetta equally go to Wikipedia

Stefan Lindblad
Illustrator & artist

Male chauvinists all around creating daily problems out of nothing

2010-12-10T14:30:00.002+01:00

Everyday when I go out, and it may be at the subway/underground, the bus or a café, McDonalds and what have you. Every were there is a stupid male carachter, a chauvinist, of all kind of nationalities creating problems out of absolutly nothing. The other day it was a classic “Svensson” as we say in Sweden. A blonde Swede. Today at the table next to me at this McDonalds café section at this shopping mall, its a russian tourist going off on about apparently nothing. The woman he sits with first sat waited for him. He came and she looked glad to see him. She gave him a perfectly normal friendly face. He starts going off on in Russian language, which I dont speak but his tone and gestures was universal. He points at the table with one dried spot, waving about as it was the end of the world. He points again and almost look at her as if she was his private waitress. She goes away and comes back with a cloth and wipes it off. He sits down like he had an issue with himself. Irrritated. The world against him, at HIM a MAN. When she comes back she gives him still a normal glad face. He starts to complain. In russian which I dont speak, but the tone and gestures again is simply that stupid macho attitude.
I just ask myself why. Why the heck couldnt HE lift his bony ass and go for that cloth and wipe it off himself.

Stefan Lindblad
A male Illustrator

To Hugh Grant

2010-12-06T19:53:00.001+01:00

Hugh Grant if you read this – myself and my girlfriend/life partner Mia really like you in your movies. No worries no stalking here, we simply enjoy your movies. You will still have to polish your own boots. I can speak for myself saying I miss seeing another movie with you. Could you please make another great movie. I told my Mia the other day “Honey, its bloody time for another Hugh Grant movie” She agreed.

I am presently working with an architectural presentation illustration and a coming music video concept illustration, and the other day I just sent two youth book covers I made the graphic design and illustration to. And while doing all this I listened to a great playlist on youtube with music by Foo Fighters, Matchbox Twenty, Semisonic, Incubus and a bunch of other great bands and you and your movies came to mind.
Okey Hugh, now I´ve said it, so please make another movie. Its about time

Best,

Stefan Lindblad
Illustrator, graphic designer and artist
Stockholm, SWEDEN

Ps. For those who havent seen any Hugh Grant movie yet, you rent at least these movies and enjoy a great evening.

- Notting Hill
- About a Boy
- The Englishman who whent up a hill and came down a
mountain

Stefan Lindblad - Art and Illustration

Herbie Hancock & Christina Aquilera

There are those who like to be, then there are singers and then there are stars and stars for a reason.

Maverick Sabre

Maverick Sabre

The Interview Series: Bob Friedman, CorelDRAW user & Beta Tester, runs his own family business, Pams Press Graphics in USA

The Interview Series: Hywel Harris, CorelDRAW user & Beta Tester, runs his own company, Lady Bay Art Glass, with partner Michelene Harris, in Nottingham, England

The Interview Series: Jeff Harrison, CorelDRAW Graphics Suite user & Beta Tester from Canada, country of Corel

The Interview Series: Silvio Win ( Silvio Gomes ) - in Santos, Brazil. CorelDRAW Graphics Suite user & Beta Tester

SOPA and respecting all people

The Interview Series: Alan drury at Alan Drury Signwriting in England. Beta tester & CorelDRAW Graphics Suite user.

The Interview Series: Myself Stefan Lindblad, Illustrator, Artist & Graphic Designer

The Interview series: Fu Tiepeng in China working as a teacher and using CorelDRAW

The Interview Series: Adrian Juman, Graphic Designer in Guyana, South America

The Interview Series: Jan Felber, who works with his own company as a Photograper in Germany

The Interview Series: Roy Reed, London, England. Owner of & work with his company ReedDesign

The Interview Series: Pratik Shah owner of his own company Corel Insight, in India

Red Tail, the George Lucas movie

Messi won Ballon DÓr again–but he isnt as good as Ibrahimovic just yet

Corel Photo-Paint and Corel Aftershot–former Bibble PRO–a great combo!

The Interview Series: David Milisock President Custom Graphic Technologies Inc

The Interview Series: Anand Dixit, in INDIA

The Interview Series: Foster D. Coburn III, in Arizona. Unleashed Productions and CorelDRAW Expert.

The Interview Series: Hugh Johnson, California, USA. HJohnson Garment Services, & Hjohnson Consultants

Interviews soon to come

With Bibble Pro and PSP - is Photo-Paint “programa non grata” in Corel Marketing? Will it get the Ventura treatment?

New T-shirts, new illustration & design, by Stefan Lindblad

Dark Horse Comics, the Conan contest and offer

Hotfix 4 for CorelDRAW X5, download here

Quick Instructions

Canon doesnt create proper scanner drivers for 64 bit software – they dont care

New T-Shirt, buy in my Store at Spreadshirt, Stefan Lindblad design

Still an Adobe Photoshop user? – think again & maybe go elsewhere

Christmas time, Christmas music

Green Day–Wake me up when september ends

Zlatan Ibrahimovic book

Why is this art dangerous to the goverment

A master and disciple caring for each others

Why americans & Britts use Red, Blue & White in design

Big shot Photographer who considered to buy a drum scanner

Why wasnt I at Paul Madonnas in San Fransisco 1-2nd Oct

When Aftonbladet newspaper asked me draw G. Persson and refuse to publish it

Stumbled upon these two articles, one about sweden and one about climate change, kind of…

Copyright and what are you as a client buying & you who sell selling

Massive Attack – still one of the greatest songs

Tony Bennet & Amy Whinehouse duet

The Verve

Where I was in september, 2001

Are Republicans in USA undemocratic?

Masking tech in Photo-Paint

Working music

Mentioned on a blog I whent to read myself

Warren Buffet is a sensible and clear minded person

What a great song to work to – Enrique Iglesias – Hero

My New illustration for a New Website for Writers coming soon – Developmenthell.com

Frank Sinatra – One for my baby

Miles Davis Quintet - It Could Happen To You

Miles Davis Quintet - It Could Happen To You

"I Could Write a Book" Frank Sinatra

"I Could Write a Book" Frank Sinatra

How to be an illustrator and graphic designer

Call me cranky – but smokers at cafés in the morning?

Alesso my nephew, the new DJ Swedish House Maffia

Change operating system on regular mobile phones and smartphones - not an option

Hope Solo–great article about a great football player–what a life journey

Ever heard of “Problems Steps Recorder”

Bach on my cell phone as ringtone

Read about Mac vs PC and Corel software

My website and email is up and running again – thank you Webhost Surftown!

My own website and email is down due to webhost problems

Adobe Reader, Acrobat have a PDF lenght limit for large image formats–CorelDRAW does not

Tourist, visiting Stockholm, SWEDEN? Hotel in Stockholm Enskede?

Nigeria Letters coming your way again?

What is illustration for you?

CorelDRAW Graphics Suite X5 service Pack 3

Twitter plugin

Dogs stopped but children & adults ... the real sniffles – which one are the worst contaminators

The CoffeeCup company´s computer software

Encouraging words of illustrations & book covers designs I made ​​for Swedish publishing houses

Matchbox twenty–great when working

Encouraging words of illustrations & book covers designs I made for Swedish publishing houses

Buy the book directly from me and my own shop.
Price including shipping worldwide 6 euros.

Buy the book directly from me and my own webshop.
Price including shipping worldwide 6 euros.