Tiki Carving Swap - 4/7 Draw Completed

Just thought I'd run this idea by you guys.

I love most peoples work on this forum, but spend so much on tools and materials I have very little left for purchasing finished pieces (bieng in the Uk doesn't help)

Some of you guys know that I also make knives, when I was on the knife forum, we had a little thing going (K I T H, knife in the hat) where people who joined the scheme made a project of their choice.
Dates were set for finished projects. Then the peoples names were put into a hat, your own name wouldn't be drawn out against your project, but one of the members would end up with your project and you end up with someone else's project.

It used to work out really well, obviously people are of different skill levels and produce from different materials but making something for people on the forum used to lift everybody's game.

What do people think??

I'd be up for it

Regards
Flynny

The Potential List (Oscar Nominees)

Flynny
PD Drake
Benz
8ft Tiki
Tama
Hewey
Mieko
Surf Tiki
Aloah Station
Paipo
Clydesdale
Alien Tiki
WPlugger
Queen K
Tiki Lee
S.C. Tikishack
Sneakytiki
Freddieballsomic

A round 18

[ Edited by: flynny 2007-04-05 11:34 ]

[ Edited by: flynny 2007-04-06 21:46 ]

Im potentially interested - Ive participated in a few art swaps on a pinstriping forum and theyve been great. International postage can get mighty expensive though, as sizes and weight go up. Ive also had a mate wait 2 months for a piece 'cause somebody posted it sea and not air.

If you change the thread title to "tiki carving swap" people will have a better idea of what is in the thread. There's so many threads on TC, if the thread title doesnt do anything for me I wont look at it. I skipped this a few times before I got curious.

The other option is to PM people who's art you like and propose a private swap. Ive done this with multiple artists and got some great pieces

Sounds interesting

I hasten to add that the draw is done by somebody who doesn't participate, making it fair.
Regards
Flynny

i'm interested flynny. keep me posted.

I could be interested if they're not scheduled too often; quarterly or so might be ok? And as for the difference in peoples skill levels etc, might I suggest that there be some sort of 'benchmark' value to try to come close to or perhaps a loose suggestion of how long to spend on a piece..? Just thoughts

Tama :)

Hi Guys
One or two interested people, good news.
Tama, Where I have got involved in the past, some strange things have happened. People who made mind blowing stuff out of certain materials completely switched for the projects, from highly detailed things to real rustic stuff. As to value I don't know how you can tackle that one, people such as yourself and Paipo do this for a living so time is money, also materials are expensive, having said that some of the stuff I see from the guys who carve wood is awsome, the material is cheaper and it might take them/me longer because we do it in our spare time.
My view is, leave it open to the individual, everyones work has some value and from what I see on the forum, I for one would be happy to recieve a piece from just about everyone.
Size and postage could be a problem, but if we kept projects to a reasonable size or maybe asked the recipient to fund the postage that might work (i would hate to pay the shipping from SoCal to the Uk for half a palm tree!!!).
It would be good too if people updated their profile so you can get a good idea of the makeup of the person you are making for.
Tama, Benz and Paipo, I would be quietly crapping myself If I drew you to make for, but hey I would hope to rise to the challenge.
Finally we used to do this sort of thing annually, started small but gathered real momentum as people saw the projects coming to life and wanted to get involved next time. I would suggest we leave the list open for a month then draw allowing 2 months for projects to be exchanged.
What da ya all think. We ahve probably got 3-4 interested parties already. Maybe the moderators could make this a sticky for a time.
Regards
Flynny

A possible solution to the question of the quality of the pieces could be to have everyone interested submit a picture of their piece to this topic or pm it to someone, perhaps the person who will be doing the drawing, and it can either be accepted or rejected.

I'm interested, although I still need more practice in order to make something good. :) One thing I'd recommend as far as shipping is to include your location, and what you'd be willing to spend on shipping. Stuff to the overseas guys would probably end up small, but the big stuff could still be moved locally, or further if people really want to pay. It's more work for the person doing the matching up, but I think it would be worth it.

Would this be a make something then sign up, or sign up get assigned a person then start the carving? In some ways I'd like to know who I'm carving for, but then again the pressure of getting something done for someone could be pretty annoying.

Mieko
I would envisage the names going a hat, then the draw which would pair you up to make something for somebody who drew your name, so if the first name out of the draw was mine, followed by yours, I would make something for you, we could exchange PM's to establish likes/dislikes, hobbies, influences etc then I would make something for you within the alloted time, say 2 months, and based on my skillset (even if you loved Tiki Shark's paintings, I couldn't even begin to paint one!!!).
I don't think it needs to be heavy, just an exchange of art/craft.
Best Regards
Flynny

I like this idea, I really do. But it seems to me that it would be very hard to keep everyone together on it. I don't mean to doom it to failure before even trying but If some previous "group art type things" are any example, We often get the best of intentions and a less-than-hoped-for actual participation. It needs to have a specific size/weight limit(for postage reasons) and also a strict end date because we all need that to some degree just to make us follow through.
Just ask the IRS (April 15).

On 2007-02-21 18:19, hewey wrote:

The other option is to PM people who's art you like and propose a private swap. Ive done this with multiple artists and got some great pieces

I agree with Hewey on this for several reasons. Foremost is that I can't afford to purchase many original creations from the TC artists I really admire. Dangit! I won't name names but I would love to trade with many of the carvers especially. However, I don't know if they would have any incentive to trade a killer item produced with their skill for a "grab bag" type thing I might hack out. Don't get me wrong, I would try my very best but as was said before, those who create for selling are perhaps less likely to afford time to make something for someone who isn't a paying customer. I am not scoffing at the ohana spirit that I know is here but looking at this realistically. I also wonder if these merchants even collect tiki to a degree that they would want a carving from anyone else. I don't think everyone on TC has a tiki bar or room or yard etc. I mean they could just make their own if they wanted more tikis to have around. Maybe I am way off on this but I hope it all works out. In another thread there is a couple of great photos of someones collection of like ten tikis carved by other TC members. I always love looking at them together as a group and then I get jealous of them and go to another thread. haha.

On the pinstriping forums a topic is chosen (eg. tikis was one, flying eyeballs, 50s monster movies etc etc). A month is given for artists to create a piece. Pieces must be finished by due date, or no playing. Everyone posts their art in a single thread. Names of participants are drawn out, person 1 & 2 swap, person 3 & 4 swap etc. PM each other and get addresses and post it.

If we draw names then create, there is possibility one person does it straight away and the other person doesnt get around to it for 6 months...

With the pinstriping swaps, what you get is what you get. You might get some killer lines, you might get stuff that looks like a paintbrush was taped to chickens beak. If you have to send it overseas bad luck. Hey - its a given I will be posting mine to the other side of the world, for everyone else its like 5% chance. Just keep it in mind and dont make it too big or heavy. Its up to the individual if they like the topic/theme, want to run the risk of getting possible crap in return, or if they have to post to the other side of the world.

Other points to consider:

• Themed swaps? Like pirate tiki, zombie tiki, surf tiki, hot rod tiki, or we could have a moai swap, Ku swap, marquesan swap, or just keep it general.
• Straight tiki carving swaps? or do we want to allow paintings and carvings or anything else that might be appropriate?
• Who will manage it and address possible greivances?

I don't think everyone on TC has a tiki bar or room or yard etc. I mean they could just make their own if they wanted more tikis to have around

I think most of us would keep it smallish for postage and time restraint reasons. I cant see someone bustin out a 6 footer - if they do I hope to get them in the swap! :) :) I used to think along the "just make your own" lines sometimes, the thing I like about these swaps is seeing everyones style and indivuallity come out. If we have 10 carvers make pirates I am sure we will get 10 very individual pieces. Just look at the tiki art 'theme of the month' thing we used to do - some great and innovative ideas in there.

Everyone's giving constructive feedback which is good - if we sought the details out now the more likely it will be a success :)

Kustom Kahoona

[ Edited by: hewey 2007-02-22 18:28 ]

I think we should just do it and work out the kinks as we go..I'm in!

On 2007-02-22 18:19, hewey wrote:
Other points to consider:

• Themed swaps? Like pirate tiki, zombie tiki, surf tiki, hot rod tiki, or we could have a moai swap, Ku swap, marquesan swap...

Everyone's giving constructive feedback which is good - if we sought the details out now the more likely it will be a success :)

---

Kustom Kahoona

I like the idea of 'themed' swaps Hewey. Setting a few parameters might also help lessen any potential discrepancies..? Having a themed swap also gives the chance for an individual to decide whether they are in or out for a particular 'round'. For example, someone may be well keen to participate for Marquesan-swap but have no interest in Pirate-swap, etc. Perhaps we shipwrecked types that are definately going to be sending our pieces in bottles could get a slight break as to size..? (not thinking of myself specifically; even my biggest work is pretty small) Insurance for jewellery work can be a killer sometimes too, perhaps some private negotiation in regards to this may be necessary?

Another thought might be for each individual to specify what they would like (within reason) from the drawn swap-mate, based on what we have seen of each others work or just perhaps setting a challenge/request..?

Whattaya reckon?

Tama :)

I found that thread I mentioned above. It is Poly Pop's collection. Check out the photos. Here's the thread:
http://www.tikicentral.com/viewtopic.php?topic=12433&forum=5&4

Hi Guys
Whooah, all this debate, brilliant.
I too think we should set dates.

list of names ends say March end,
Draw April 1, F
Finished projects to be exchanged by June 1st.

There have been some great ideas re:- themed swaps etc, all great stuff that can be debated before the end of March. Personally I know my limitations, having to make something from a 50's Monster Movie theme might throw me but what the hell.

Hey if this doesn't work out there could be a swap thread in the marketplace.
Size I think will have to figure somewhere.

All I can say regarding the quality/skillset issue is that I would try my level best to come up with something my future owner would like, it might not be up to some of the standards that I see, but would have every bit of sweat and effort in it.
You never know, those at the top of the game, might recieve something that is from a relative newcomer who's future stuff might be influenced by raising their game, a future Tama, Benz, Paipo perhaps.

Also rather than freeform everything, this will help focus making something specific, which can only help in the future when it comes to selling something to help pay for new materials or a specific request from a friend etc, etc.

It's time that I ammended the initial post to include those who are up for it. I will have a quick scan through the post to see who has expressed an in, and include those.

If your name isn't there add it to the thread, if it is and you don't want to participate post a withdrawl on the thread.

Best Regards
Flynny

P.S. Any volunteers to do the draw.

I'm in.

I liked Hewey comment about - if you want to be included simply post your work by a certain date - that way there will be no empty promises of work to be finished (I'm included in that generalization). Themes are a great idea. My vote is for Moias - simple to complex - these have the greatest range for a limited time frame.

Hi AlohaStation
Good idea, do I take it your in??
Regards
Flynny

BTTT
Roll up, Roll up anyone else interested, we need about ten I reckon.
regards
Flynny

Count me in too, althought it will depend on the timeframe. I already have a couple of swap pieces to make for other trades I've arranged through TC!

On 2007-02-23 07:01, AlohaStation wrote:
My vote is for Moias - simple to complex - these have the greatest range for a limited time frame.

*Im in; Moais sounds good. This'll level the field a bit too; Ive only ever attempted two Moai-type things & havent finished either of them. To be honest they scare the crap out of me & someone might just find a big ol Tama flop in their mailbox, heehee. Hey, thats what challenges are all about right?

Tama :)

So Moai is go :)

How about we agree to have them finsished by end of March? Everybody posts by the end of the month - a 'neutral' party does the draw and we swap from there.

Carvers only or other artists too? I would like both, but can understand carvers wanting carvings.

I'm down with the subject matter, and looking at the list I know I'd be happy with a piece from anyone on it. Once you add AS and myself we're up to 10 participants already!

Wow, I'm chuffed this gathering momentum, there's some reeeeely good names on there quake, quake.
I could go with names by the end of the month and finished projects by end of March, if everyone agrees I will ammend the first post.
I'm still in favour of an open project, some people might steer clear if they have to make a specific item.
Aslo let's stress that the swap is open to all types Painters, Potters, Jewellers, Carvers anyone.
Best Regards
Flynny

What's the concensus, end the list March 1, projects by end of March ?
If so we need a volunteer to draw the names pretty quickly.
Regards
Flynny

The March of the Tikis... March is a go!

Tama :)

March is fast, but I think I can do it. :) I'm afraid of Moai's, the first one I did I wasn't all that happy with, but then again, I think it'll be good to have a challenge, so whichever we decide, I'm ok.
Of course I'm extra terrified that I'm in this list with all these amazingly talented people, being a newbie I feel a little outclassed. :)

moais??!! heck. done. how many do you want? ;-P

We need a volunteer who isn't taking part to draw the names Saturday/Sunday.

Contact can then be made between maker and future owner with projects finished hopfully by the end of March, is this OK

Shall we use this thread to post any pics of projects as they develop or create a new one for those who are interested.

I like some have got a few pre match nerves but am looking forward to it. I know Moai are the flavour but I still think if anyone wants to deviate from this that should be cool, just come up with something that you can do well and the person you are making it for is cool with it.
Regards
Flynny

Flynny, I think posting the pieces/progress for the swap in this thread is a good idea, it will help keep everyone motivated. Maybe we could expand the theme to Rapa Nui? There are a few nice designs other than the Moai to choose from......

bird man?

Paipo I.m ok with that.
I was only thinking of those guys who might be apprehensive about just Moai. Rapa Nui offers a greater range of materials, subject matter etc

Don't mind who does the draw only proviso is you can't draw yourself. LoL

All that needs doing is names in the hat, then draw out the first name who will either make or recieve from the next name, until we are all paired up

Regards
Flynny

On 2007-02-27 18:36, mieko wrote:
March is fast, but I think I can do it.

*Just had a thought: seeing as how we have broadened the theme to include all Rapa-Nui art; how about we extend the finish deadline until... Easter!? Gives an extra week or so.

Tama :)

Tama
That is a stunning thought, Rapa Nui by Easter, excellent
Flynny

On 2007-02-28 03:33, flynny wrote:
Tama
That is a stunning thought, Rapa Nui by Easter, excellent
Flynny

:)

I can do the draw if you still need someone. I'll have to do/post it Saturday, as I'll be gone all Sunday.

-Gman

Cheers Gman I think the list will stay as it is, so Saturday is excellent.
Flynny

I think that names should not be drawn till AFTER the swap pieces are done. This will allow anyone to enter without feeling pressure to meet any "standards". Create a piece, post it, and then draw. Like I tell my daughters - "You get what you get and you don't get upset!" Drawing names before the pieces are done closes the Swap off to any new people that may want to enter. The subject matter was just a suggestion, if you want a lot of people to enter just leave it open - I'm cool with that. I already know what I'm doing.

Whenever you want. I'll do the names.

-Gman

Aloah
Good input, normally I wouldn't have any issues with your suggestion, but in the swap I think it's a little different, we have multi skilled guys some of whom make in a variety of different materials, some who specialise, excellent craftsmen in bone, stone and wood, paint etc, (I don't class myself in that category).

I for one would be happy to recieve a project from anyone on the list and I stress anyone. But the last thing I think I would want is to draw Tama or Paipo to make for, having attempted something in jade only to send it back to where I got the raw material from in the first place and probably, no where near their standard, likewise, if I drew benz having attempted something in wood having to send it to the Timbermeister.

I think I would like to try and make something for the said individual a little different from the norm and a little tailored but in keeping with the flavour of the swap.

What do you guys think.
Flynny

I think make then do the draw. Mainly for the making sure its done factor. Thats directed at me too - I need a deadline to work to

It's turning into a bit of a can of worms, but it's good to get this stuff thrashed out before we get started.
AlohaStation, I can see pros and cons for doing the draw at the end - flynny has already explained one of the cons, the "Coals to Newcastle" scenario - but I'd still I'd be happy with whatever subject and medium my "match" chose. I guess if I had a choice I'd prefer a wood pendant or carving simply because I can't make one myself but it really doesn't matter. Maybe if an artist is worried about this they should just make something in whatever medium they feel most accomplished in. I know I will be using beach stone!
Your reasoning for keeping it until the end is sound...no outside influences or pressure to affect the act of creating. As for themes, I guess some people have certain styles they're comnfortable with and are probably going to produce better pieces if they're working in their favourite genre (as with medium).
Keeping entry open until Easter is a cool idea....anyone who can submit a finished work by the cutoff is in!? We might pick up another 6-10 artists during March if we keep bumping this thread with some good progress pics!

v TC Thread v

myspace

[ Edited by: Paipo 2007-02-28 23:37 ]

Hey, there's only 10 of us on the list. That's an even 5 swaps. Why don't we just do this first round and see how it goes? Then if we are all agreed and satisfied with the outcome, we can tout the results and invite more to join for a second round. Rapa Nui is cool with me and even though I will be EXTREMELY BUSY in March, I will get busy and have something to swap. I personally agree with the "make it first and then draw names" camp. No one need reveal their items until they are told who gets it. Think of the suspense and excitement this could build on TC as the community waits to see the results and learns what you can get in a swap pool. I think we start small and go for it!

GET IT ON !!!!!!!!!

No matter when the draw is done, we will all be donating a piece into the pool and will be receiving one. It doesn't make much difference to me whose I get or who gets mine although I would certainly love a piece from every artist involved. True there is a matter of ability levels but that doesn't mean much. I could make a Lesson tiki in about 4 hours for a nice one and 2 hours for a quickie.. I would do the nice one. I could also do a 4 day pendant, but I probably won't. I could do a 1000$ BigBenZart but I won't. What I'm saying is that the more experienced artists know how to create a great gift for the pool that might not reflect what you anticipate receiving. Same for all the artists really, not any specific level. I will create something that everyone would want and that should be our goal. It's going to be a fun thing to do and participate in. FUN FUN FUN!

I think Benz is onto something:

On 2007-02-28 17:08, Benzart wrote:
No matter when the draw is done, we will all be donating a piece into the pool and will be receiving one. It doesn't make much difference to me whose I get or who gets mine although I would certainly love a piece from every artist involved.

Lets all make 9 pieces and send one to everyone! :) Sorry, I was just in a long meeting and work, and now chilling out on TC, but still a little crazy...

Arh, bugger it - I have no idea what I will be carving yet, wont know till I start hooking in, and even then its liable to change as I go... realistically when I think about it, doesn't make much difference to me if we do names before or after!

Don't know how I missed this but I can in!!! Hewey just shot it over and I'd like to choppy chop too....can I...huh....please....can I.... :wink:

Hi Guys
Clydesdalle, I added you to the list and welcome to the swaporama.
It looks like we have consensus as to the make first, draw at the end of March. It should create a bit of hype as people develop their projects. I have ammended the first post.
Good luck to everyone with their projects.
Regards
Flynny

On 2007-02-28 23:25, flynny wrote:
Hi Guys
Clydesdalle, I added you to the list and welcome to the swaporama.
It looks like we have consensus as to the make first, draw at the end of March. It should create a bit of hype as people develop their projects. I have ammended the first post.
Good luck to everyone with their projects.
Regards
Flynny

Cheers Flynny, you too! Just once more for the thick guy: so we ARE going to show prog. shots..? And show them here..?

Quite exciting isnt it? :D

Tama