Last year, I went to the Wolfe Island Music Festival for the first time, and I had a blast. I’m going back again this year — again, to partake at their Vendor Village, but also just to enjoy the tunes. We’re wimping out on camping this time around, since standing at a booth and selling t-shirts all day after only 2 hours of sleep was a bit of a challenge last year (those campers like to party!).

Also vending will be my buddy Stirling Prentice, aka Winged Beast Outfitters. His tees put a smile on my face:

If you’re an indie Canadian music-head and in the neighbourhood, I recommend the festival — it’s a free ferry-ride from Kingston, and a really nice laid-back event.

Have a terrific weekend!

etsy.com, good peeps, m chen wears Stirlbot, Winged Beast Outfitters, Wolfe Island Music Festival 2010

Last Sunday, my buddy Hart completed his first-ever Iron Man race. Cheering him on all the way were 40+ of his closest friends and family (a.k.a. The Red Army) dressed in matching t-shirts that I had the honour of designing.

I know Hart through my wonderful friend and his superstar sister Liz, who hired me to do this project — one of the most fun and rewarding jobs I’ve ever done. This is what I came up with:

If you’re wondering about the bare feet, it’s something Hart’s known for… though he did wear footwear for the event. Here are a few photos of his day, taken by his stepdad, Rod MacIvor:

I can’t possibly comprehend what must go into preparing for an event like this — what makes someone even want to undertake it, what sacrifices go into training, how surreal and grueling the day of must be, and how proud one must feel after having done it. Hart did a wonderful job writing about part of his journey here, but as a spectator-from-afar, all I can do is be in awe. I mean 16 hours in a row of anything is nuts, right?

As for the Red Army, here’s a shot of part of the team (apparently, this is only half the group!):

Thanks, Rod, for sharing your photos and generosity.

Thanks, Liz, for bringing me onboard; I only wish I could’ve been there and suited up with y’all.

Thanks, Hart, for being a huge inspiration… and for having fun eyebrows to draw :)

good peeps, horn tootin' Hart Shouldice, I heart Hart, Iron Man 2010, Lake Placid, t-shirt design

Sunny Sun by kateendle

Fellow Ottawa-heads — if you’re looking for a nice Saturday activity tomorrow and if you like to support local artists, head over to Urban Art @ Minto Park on Elgin at Gilmour!

Rain or shine, we’ll be there, selling our wares (and wears ;) — 60 different artisans from photographers to sculptors, glass blowers to jewelry-makers…

Last year’s event began with huge downpours, though it was nice out by noon. Tomorrow’s forecast has me wincing… let’s hope that’s a feeble 30% percentage of precipitation:

*Ahem… I’m rooting for the guy in the picture above. (Isn’t he cute!???)

If you do come to the event, please come and say hello. I’ve met a few of you at events now, and it’s encouraging to know that people actually read my rambling — it’s always a huge pleasure.

m chen wears