Presidential Candidate Hillary Rodham Clinton

© Neil Feigeles, Sunday, August 16, 2015,  23.5" x 24.9" Digital art 

Presidential Candidate Hillary Rodham Clinton © Neil Feigeles,  Here's my first attempt at capturing the essence of possibly our next President, Hillary Clinton. I've personally always admired her,  and hopefully my art gives her the gravitas that I think she deserves. Win or lose, this great American has solidified her place in the history books. Personally I hope, her story has an even more historic chapter to write. And yes, she's got my vote.  

Below is a chart of the finished sketch,  The art was hand illustrated by me. Drawn in Corel Painter, using a Wacom tablet. No tracing,  just drawing from scratch just like the good old days of pencil on paper, but with the benefit of modern technology. 

BIG NEWS:  JUST BEEN CAST IN A NEW SHOW!

Casey — 30 years later!  

About a month back I auditioned for Beverly Bonner of Basket Case fame. You see, she's written a wonderful comedy and I'm now performing in it. You heard that correct. I'm back in a new show. 

In September, I'll start playing 2 roles in the production, Dusty the Drunk & the Basket Box, but before that I'll be filling in for another actor on 2 other roles, this coming Monday August 17, and playing… well you have to see it. Lets just say, you'll be seeing a different side of me. Hmmm…

Of note: When I was in my twenties, sometime in the early '80s I went to see the movie Basket Case [for the first time], at one of its Midnight screenings downtown Manhattan. And it wasn't the only time I saw it… so I am very stoked to actually get my chance to play in the same Universe as the one and only Beverly Bonner, or should I write Casey!

Comedy, Horror, Sexy Twisted Characters?   That’s Casey---30 Year Later!  The play that will have you running for your Prozac!  After shocking you with our naughty Ladies of the Evening and Casey’s no holds barred dialogue, we’ll scare the crap out of you with our very own wicked serial killer living in Casey’s lower East Side bar lurking in a mysterious Basket-Box, then when we have finished shocking you senseless, we’ll finish you off by killing you with laughter!  WHAT A WAY TO GO!!!

CASEY----30 YEARS LATER!!,  written by, directed and starring Beverly Bonner, is based upon her “Casey” character in Frank Henenlotter’s cult horror film classic, “Basket Case.”  Released in 1982, this horror film tells the story of a young man who carries his deformed conjoined twin brother in a large basket while seeking vengeance on the doctors who separated them against their will.  Written and directed by Frank Henenlotter, “Basket Case” became a cult hit and spawned two sequels.

BROADWAY COMEDY CLUB 318 West 53rd (Between 8th and 9th) New York, New York 10019

Monday, August 17, 2015 from 6:30 PM to 8:00 PM (EDT

Please mention my name when you order or reserve the tickets… thanks

For more information and to order tickets, please go to.

http://www.eventbrite.com/e/casey-30-years-later-tickets-16327202101

ARSENIC & OLD LACE 

So much fun, getting the chance to perform in anything, but especially with a large ensemble. But reliving a favorite show from my youth and getting the chance to play in its genius, in its peculiar world, is truly a good reason to continue on this journey. 

Well here's one memory I'll keep, Here's the script for the show, with the autographs of everyone who appeared on it and behind it. 

Sadly no video to share… hopefully next time.

Here's the Program for the show, listing my fellow cast members and our wonderful director and producers. Below you will find the Programs cover…

BIG NEWS:  I'M BACK ON THE STAGE: YES!

Well here it is, the official postcard for the show.

I'll be performing the role of Mr. Gibbs, in the classic stage comedy: Arsenic & Old Lace.

As the images showcase: 

Dates: July 9 at 7PM. July 10 & 11 at 8PM, and July 12 at 3PM

Location:  Theatre at John De Sotelle Studio
300 West 43rd Street, 3rd Floor, New York, NY 10036

Tickets: $20.00

For more information, please check out: http://arsenicandoldlacenyc.com

I DO HAVE A VOICE! Finally, my first real speaking role in a movie. If you wait long enough and try hard enough, eventually everything is possible. 

Over the last few months I've been really pushing my acting career. Going on multiple auditions. Most recently I appeared in a small project, as noted here on my blog, in Bell Express, as Mr. Button. While I was in it, and yes said some words. I actually didn't have a so-called speaking role. I was more a featured background. Close but no cigar.  
So getting cast as Bob in a film Virtual Reality Re Up, has been quite an exciting and eye-opening and life affirming experience.
Any worries, about my performance, my remembering of lines and who I was as this character was gone once I appeared on set. All my discussions with our director, James Wang were as I always hoped they would be. And happily when we were shooting I didn't do anything to blow my cover that this is all just an act and everyone will realize that I'm an artist pretending to be an actor, simply trying to live out my child hood dreams and fantasies.
In the film I play a music agent in a Virtual Reality game. And for me one of the highlights was being introduced to one of the actors in the film as the agent, and actually being asked by the actor "Why did I decide to take the star of the film as a client?" It took me a moment to realize what had occurred. And then explained to him, that "No, I wasn't his 'real' agent, I was playing his agent in the film." Then he looked at me and laughed and said "Bob?" Guess there was a reason I was cast in the role, I looked the part. Score. 
Since I made my decision to attempt my hand at acting, approximately 16 years ago, I've had a lot of reasons to give up this crazy dream. As I watch some of my peers get to their next level and I continue the struggle as the rest of your life tries to get you to give up… I mean how long can you try before maybe its time to give up? As my first acting coach told me, when I asked her at the end of our first year in Meisner, If I should actually attempt this, do I have it in me, or am I wasting my time… I watch American Idol, I see reality right in front of me… am I simply fooling myself?  Her response was an eye-opner:
"If I told you you sucked, would you stop?" I asked "Do I suck?" Her response struck home: "If you listen to what others have to say, maybe you shouldn't try." I of course asked her, "OK, but am I wasting my time, is this just a whim and a dream or do I have anything in me thats worth continuing my dreams"  And then she said "Neil, I gave you my answer"
In other words don't listen to others, listen to your heart. Of course again, a lot of people are deluding themselves, remember I watch American Idol and X-factor and…
That said, I walked out of the workshop that day, pondering her words… and still of course wondering if I was deluding myself… but still hoping that yes, I had it in me.
After that workshop, I began sending out my headshot and applying to gigs I thought I had a chance to at least be considered for. And within two months, after only my second audition I was offered my first acting role, in The 13th Street Rep's annual production of Charles Dicken's A Christmas Carol. And I guess the rest is history.
So, finally after a lot of stage work, and lots of background work in film and television,  I am now finally getting to say actual words and to really feel like I've earned my membership into SAG-AFTRA. 

Neil

BELL EXPRESS

My latest bit of news, as some of you know, I've been auditioning a lot lately… happily some of those 'trials by fire' have begun to turn in my favor. Here's me on the set of BELL EXPRESS, a small independent feature I just acted in. The film, which is directed by Shange Zhang, is a fantasy about life, what one would do to be given more time. In the film, I play Mr. Button, basically I make a deal with the devil…again? Or should I call Lucifer, Mr. Bell? I truly had a blast for two days, getting to be this fun character. As our director kept reminding me before every take… "You are Mr. Button, you are not Neil, remember, Mr. Button." Surprisingly, with all the noise that's all around you behind the scenes, its great advice to get one's self ready for action.
Here are a couple of additional behind the scene shots. Showcased here is the ring which I wore during the shoot, actually the ring was given to me by my mom recently. It was my fathers pinky ring, and when our director, mentioned to me that my character was going to be wearing a ring, I told him, that I already had one which he might like. And once he saw my fathers ring… Shange had this huge grin on his face. In fact, the ring was used in the film and is supposedly featured thru-out, even when I'm not in it! In fact the ring worked more on the film then I did… Of note, as I wrote the ring is a pinky ring, well for a few days after the shoot my 'ring' finger, was swollen big time. What I do for my craft. 
Also showcased here is my lovely co-star, Rachel Cora Wood, my wife during the shoot. And lastly another shot of me on the bench having a Forrest Gump moment.

  

Of note, I also was recently cast in a production of Arsenic and Old Lace, which will be performing in July.

As more information is given on the release of the film and about performances of the play, I will update, sooner then later.

As for the play, the show has a Facebook page, here is the link. I presume they will be updating information, so if you are interested in being kept up to date, the link for that is: https://www.facebook.com/arsenicandoldlacenyc

It is also being 'Hatchfunded' (which is new to me) and here's link to that:

http://www.hatchfund.org/project/arsenic_and_old_lace

Neil

Now on-line… Born Yesterday Act III!

On October 26, 2014 we performed the 3rd act of Born Yesterday. Here's a link to watch it online.  So now along with Act II, you can watch the third act of the show.

Here's the link:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NkdDZN7WX8o&feature=youtu.be

WHO EVER SAID YOU CAN'T GO HOME AGAIN…Well they were wrong… cause I am!

Here's a heads up, on October 26th, 2014 at 3pm I'll be performing in Born Yesterday, this time, Act III. Here's the promo for it…
As noted before: The 2nd Act is now available to watch on YouTube. Here's the link. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dywVR1w-Lms

Myself and Elizabeth Hodes

WHILE I WASN'T BORN YESTERDAY, I DID GET THE CHANCE TO PERFORM IN IT — WELL AT LEAST, IN ACT II OF IT!

As showcased in the photo's presented here in this post, on Sunday, September 28, 2014 @ 3pm, I had the chance to get back up in front of an audition and give it my all. A little rusty but. but yes, I am still in love with those few minutes when I disappear and whomever I am portraying takes over. 

Heads-up: the performance is now available to watch on YouTube.  http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dywVR1w-Lms

Elizabeth Hodes and me

(Left to right: Walter Tyszka, Joanne Joseph, Larry Gutman, 
Elizabeth Hodes, Joe Pacifico, and Neil Feigeles.) 

(Left to right: Elizabeth Hodes, Joe Pacifico, and Neil Feigelesl. 

DOING BACKGROUND WORK, WHILE NOT THE DREAM JOB FOR AN ACTOR, SOMETIMES CAN BE A DREAM COME TRUE.
I don't usually discuss working as an extra, doing background, being the moving furniture, or just the blur that gives atmosphere to a scene in the project. 
But most recently I've gotten the chance to be background, an extra, and probably most likely the blur in a few frames of Steven Spielberg's latest motion picture. St. James Place, which happens to star a relatively unknown actor called Tom Hanks.
And all I can say is, is wow. Talk about a great experience. I mean if you have to do background work, what better way to spend the hours, watching, learning, and performing as requested, by one of the greatest directors who has ever lived, and my personal favorite.
Having gotten the chance to work on a number of projects headed by names such as Mel Brooks, Woody Allen and Martin Scorsese, sometimes one might think that I would be jaded by now, I mean, its only Steven Spielberg! But seeing the greats do what they do best, is the best reason to work on anything in my book. Of course its also the project, be it programs like Sex and the City, Monk, Law & Order, original, CI, & SVU, films like Birdman, Spiderman 2, The Amazing Spiderman 2, Elf, The Stepford Wives (remake), The Producers (Musical) and Mona Lisa Smiles just to name a few, all have had moments that were worth just working background. Seeing talent be it infront of, or behind the camera has always made this crazy dream of mine, even at its lowest ebb, worth all the aggravation of waking up at 2am for a 5am call time.
Getting the chance to see Steven Spielberg work, surrounded by his posse of Oscar winning brethren, watching how everything runs perfectly smooth and with a purpose. Even the way that the PA's treat the lowly non-unions… a total class act. Seeing in person how this astonishingly gifted film maker works, showcases how and why he keeps producing if not the best and most entertaining films in the world at least on a par with them. 

Growing up and discovering his work, even before he was a household name, there was always something very special about him. From his Night Gallery episode with Joan Crawford, to Duel with Dennis Weaver, to Jaws, to Close Encounters, to ET, to Shindler's List, to Empire of The Sun, to A.I. and the other 20 or so films he's directed. I've admired and enjoyed them all… mostly with at least a few tears involved. The man knows his craft.  And witnessing him up close has always been one of my dreams.

In 1987, while living in Los Angeles, I was honored to get an interview at Amblin with Ed Verreaux, the famed Production Designer and storyboard artist on many a great motion picture. I was there to showcase my illustrations. During the interview I was privileged to get a tour of the offices. Lets just say, seeing E.T.s' mother ship is one memory I will never forget. Getting a glimpse of the Production Designs for Empire of the Sun was to me like witnessing The Sistine Chapel. At one point, Mr. Verreaux said "That if Steven shows up we'd have to end the interview early."  When I asked "Steven who?" He said "Steven Spielberg!" My response was well, totally me, "You mean you call him Steven?"
He smiled at me and said "Yes!" I was a lot younger then… Sadly, the interview wasn't interrupted. And I didn't get the chance to meet the man himself. But a few days later, Ed Verreaux let me know that he had showed Steven Spielberg my art and he especially liked my E.T. painting. 
I must admit that during the four days I spent working on St. James Place, The thought of somehow reminding him of that time, almost 30 years ago, when he was shown my illustrations, and actually supposedly liked them... crossed my mind practically everytime I was in earshot of his voice. Each time he walked within 10 feet of where I was placed, I wanted to whip out the original art and go… remember me. Alas, the rendezvous never happened. I'll just have to keep that to myself, and to the people who discover my little blog.

Neil

I know, who would have thunk it, I got cast in the William Holden role!

I know its's been a while, here, but actually have good excuses… I've been busy on several fronts. 
Most recently learning lines has taken priority over drawing and writing. Tomorrow (actually today, as I write this), Sunday., September 28th, 2014 @ 3pm, I'll be performing the role of Paul Verrall in Act ll of Garson Kanin's stage and film comedy classic Born Yesterday! 

Long story short, we are performing a benefit, and this is the second of three shows. The first Act was performed last month with a different actor in the role. Luckily for me they needed someone and I got the call…yes! 
Been a while since I got the chance to strut my stuff, in a performance in front of an audience… I can not wait.
Of note: Next month, we'll be performing Act 3 of the show, the info is showcased on the poster below. Thanks.

Both promotional items was designed by yours truly.

Heads-Up… yes, yet another new place to see my art online

I recently I set up another new site:
http://neil-feigeles.artistwebsites.com to help promote my art, and perhaps earn a few cents in the process…

So, if you like some, or all, of the illustrations I've showcased here or on other sites on the web, here's a new place where you can see and actually purchase canvas prints, framed prints, metal prints, greeting cards, and even iPhone cases.
http://neil-feigeles.artistwebsites.com

Note: If there are any illustrations that you know of and don't see there, that you are interested in, please let me know. 

Neil 

UPDATE
Received this cool item today to help remember the exhibition that my art was showcased at last Summer.

See.Me 
Exhibition Space   
LIC, Queens NY
The Story of the Creative
July 29 - Sept 10, 2013
Exhibition opened on 
July 25, 2013 at 
The Angel Orensanz Foundation 
in New York City.

Hugh jackman is The Wolverine

© Neil Feigeles, Sunday, April 13, 2014,  27" x 25" Digital art 

Hugh Jackman is The Wolverine © Neil Feigeles,  Illustrated in photoshop. Here's my first attempt at capturing the man whose become the face of famed comic book character, The Wolverine. As The X-Men's most popular character, trying to find an actor that would bring his specific heroics, probably seemed like a difficult choice. But from the moment Hugh Jackman appeared on screen he has owned the character of Logan as his own. Seemingly resolving any questions if he was right to play him. Personally I couldn't be happier. 

Below is a chart of the finished sketch as I created it using my bamboo pen. No tracing,  just drawing from scratch just like the good old days of pencil on paper, but with the benefit of modern technology. 

Lupita Nyong'o: A Beauty Simply Out of This World 

© Neil Feigeles, Tuesday, March 4, 2014,  25" x 24" Digital art 

Lupita Nyong'o: A Beauty Simply Out of This World © Neil Feigeles,  Illustrated in photoshop. Every so often a performer arrives that truly shakes up the status quo in regards to what beauty is. And as a person who prides himself in capturing likenesses, Lupita Nyong'o's seemingly perfect face was something I had to try to capture. 
To showcase her in space might seem odd, but the buzz on the internet is that Lupita, might be offered one of the leads in the next Star Wars film. And seeing that Lupita's beauty at least in my humble opinion is simply out of this world. Having her showcased amongst the stars seemed appropriate and different then what others might do. And honestly, I'm pretty happy with how the stars came out...

Below is a chart of the finished sketch as I created it using my bamboo pen. No tracing,  just drawing from scratch just like the good old days of pencil on paper, but with the benefit of modern technology. 

Lily and Herman Munster

© Neil Feigeles, Tuesday, March 4, 2014,  25" x 22.75" Digital art 

Lily and Herman Munster © Neil Feigeles, March 4, 2014, Illustrated in photoshop. This weeks sketch is of one of my favorite television couples ever. Growing up, the 1960's brought us many an enjoyable sit-com. But none, except possibly The Adams Family, successfully used the horror genre as The Munsters did. Its possibly why both, enjoyed as much commercial and pop-cultural success. As for me it was possibly the coolest show on television. Every character perfectly created to live in the shows TV world. And yes, I wanted Eddie Munster to be my friend! Fred Gwynne and Yvonne De Carlo both helped bring to life two of of the most amazingly enjoyable monsters to ever grace our television sets. 

Below is a chart of the finished sketch as I created it using my bamboo pen. No tracing,  just drawing from scratch just like the good old days of pencil on paper, but with the benefit of modern technology. 

Spiderman's Web

© Neil Feigeles, February 17, 2014,  26" x 29" Digital art 

Spiderman's Web © Neil Feigeles, February 17, 2014, Illustrated in photoshop. Here's my latest attempt at bringing Marvel Comics most famous character, The Amazing Spider-Man to life. And luckily for us, the current cinematic take on old web head, is being performed by gifted young actor, Andrew Garfield, who seems born to play Peter Parker. Lastly, a personal thank you to the costume designer,  you did it, you got the costume right… well at least the mask! 

Below is a chart of the finished sketch as I created it using my bamboo pen. No tracing,  just drawing from scratch just like the good old days of pencil on paper, but with the benefit of modern technology. 

Darth Maul: Fallen Sith Lord

© Neil Feigeles, February 10, 2014,  26" x 29" Digital art 

Darth Maul: Fallen Sith Lord © Neil Feigeles, February 10, 2014, sketched in photoshop. Darth Maul, is one of George Lucas' most cool creations in his galaxy of characters. It was a blast playing with the markings on his face.

Below is a chart of the finished sketch as I created it using my bamboo pen. No tracing,  just drawing from scratch just like the good old days of pencil on paper, but with the benefit of modern technology. 

Yoda: Jedi Master'

© Neil Feigeles, February 4, 2014,  23" x 23" Digital art 

Yoda: Jedi Master © Neil Feigeles, February 4, 2014, sketched in photoshop. For a puppet, Yoda, is one of George Lucas' most human of creations in his galaxy of characters. Personally it was love at first sight. I hope I've given the little fellow the dignity he deserves.

Below is a chart of the finished sketch as I created it using my bamboo pen. No tracing,  just drawing from scratch just like the good old days of pencil on paper, but with the benefit of modern technology. 

Elsa Lanchester is 'The Bride of Frankenstein'

© Neil Feigeles, January 26, 2014,  23" x 23" Digital art 

Elsa Lancester is 'The Bride of Frankenstein' © Neil Feigeles, January, 26, 2014, sketched in photoshop. Elsa Lanchester created one, if not the greatest female character ever showcased on film. Literally bringing The Bride to life, in an awe-inspiring performance. Trying to capture her likeness was something I've wanted to attempt for a long time. Pretty happy with the results. 

Below is the black and white unfinished version. You tell me if I should have left good enough alone, or if I was right to add a little color to the mix. Note, the color showcased in the finished art was done on a separate layer. [For those interested, and for accuracy purposes] I actually duplicated the file, figured, better safe then sorry. I added the color in the new version, preserving the original. 

Below is a chart of the finished sketch as I created it using my bamboo pen. No tracing,  just drawing from scratch just like the good old days of pencil on paper, but with the benefit of modern technology.