Barrel Man to the Stadium in the Sky

I read on the Denver Examiner that Tim McKernan died last Friday. Better known as "The Barrel Man," McKernan was a staple at Broncos games throughout my adolescence. He wore *only???* the barrel at every Bronco home game, rain, snow, or shine.

McKernan captured much of what I love about living in Colorado. He was passionate, creative, weird, a little bit country, and he loved the outdoors.

According to the article, as McKernan's health declined, he was forced to sell his Super Bowl XXXII barrel (for $30,000), which had been autographed by 49 Denver Broncos players. Although he needed the money for health issues, he still donated 10% to a battered women's shelter.

If there is a heaven for the Barrel Man, I know the sunsets there are orange and blue.

stART me up

welcome to the first post entitled stART me up, a review of art that is awesome.

Five days ago, I attempted a First Friday Art Walk. Unlike the first time I went, on this occasion, the art was almost as miserable as the weather and a lot less interesting. Even the people watching opportunities ran a little under expectations. That said, I'll definitely be back and here are two of the reasons why:



Matthew Achziger. His about me section has enough typos to make you wince twice (twince?). But people, you don't go to see him write. His artwork is great! Better viewed than described, this link will take you to his portfolio and my favorite piece.(NSFWIYWICP!) notsafeforworkifyourworkiscompletelypathetic



Mark Penner-Howell was without a doubt the shining star last Friday night. He combines many of the things I love to see in artwork: irony, bright colors, a little retro and a lot of talent. I saw a few of these paintings up close and the level of detail was absolutely staggering. MPH has a propensity to juxtapose classic, innocent-looking Americana with stark, nuclear landscapes and/or uncomfortable positions. I think it's swell.