Creativity Tuesday: Why does being creative equate miles of paper work?

I feel like a one man band today.  I have been filling out paper work and creating deadlines and waiting on decisions to be made for my webisode.  My Pre-Production list is so very long-it really cracks me up.  I'm feeling the squeeze today.  I'm still waiting for a director to come aboard. No big deal.  {Yikes!}  But, I'm confident that somehow, some way, a fantastic director will materialize.  I do have auditions set up for April 21, 2011 for my male lead.  I'm so nervous and excited at the same time.  Being a producer/writer/actor/gopher is really stressful.  Maybe my first project is waaaaaaay too ambitious.  But, go big, or go home is my motto.  So, too late now!

My Top Secret Project Update.

As promised I want to keep you posted with my Top Secret Project.  I created a pilot for a webisode {mini-show meant for internet}, entitled ANDI OF ANGOURA HILLS.  Why am I doing this?  This is a multi-faceted answer:

1. Improved footage for my demo reel/website.


2. To cast myself as a lead in something fabulous.


3. The opportunity to learn how to be a producer and writer, so that I can continue to develop my own content.


4. To Taft Hartley myself into Screen Actors Guild.

This project is my artistic baby.  I came up with a seedling of an idea last year.  I actually wrote the script {which I am in love with!} in January.  I sat on it for a month because I was fearful of going forward.  Inner monologue:  "I can't do this!  I don't have a crew, finances, equipment, or a complete knowledge base to pursue this.  And even if I do it, what if it sucks?"  Well guess what?  I believe in signs.  And I was prodded forward with the aid of some amazing guardian angels.

For the last two months I have cast two roles, secured brilliant costumers, committed a stunning make-up artist and hair stylist.  I also received a flattering offer to use top notch garments as my costumes.  Yesterday I wrote my proposal to my potential director.  I'm waiting on bated breath to find out his answer.  The best part?  I have a plan B director, and a plan C!  I cannot believe the support and assistance I have received as a result of admitting that this is what I want to do, and what I one-hundred percent believe in. 

What is the plot?  It's a modern day spin on the ANNE OF GREEN GABLES story.  Although, if you watched it without knowing this factoid, you probably wouldn't make the connection.  It's a fresh 3-5 minute episode that could be viewed on your coffee break, leaving you with a smile.  ANDI OF ANGOURA HILLS is also a medium to derive visual inspiration for make-up, hair, and smart apparel styling.  You'll want to forward the episode to your best friend and sister.

I still have much in terms of getting the project to film.  But, every day I'm getting closer.  I never imagined that I would have the courage to orchestrate something like this.  It's incredibly frightening and somehow, extremely empowering.  This post is for my friends that have been asking about the progress.  Thank you for your support.  I'll have more updates to share in the near future!  P.S., when I hit a road block, I look at the above picture, and think of Anne and Gilbert's love and determination.  Inspired, I go forward, and try a different avenue. 

Hot Chocolate Break.

Go ahead, sit down.  Enjoy a virtual cup of hot chocolate with me.  I have some exciting nougats to share.  

1. The graphic designer that achieved my dream website {here.} has agreed to give The Infinite Madness a face lift!  I am smiling ear-to-ear about this process.  Last night I sent him my inspiration to build a smarter, sleeker space.  I'll keep you posted.


2. One of my "What I wore Wednesday" looks was featured in a fabulous fashion blog "Look 10" from Spain.  Take a peek at the post {here.} Muchas gracias Vicen!


3. My top secret acting project is really taking shape.  My most trusted, valued colleague has given my script the green light.  I can't wait to share additional information on this close-to-my-heart project during the pre-production phase!  I want you to be a part of the entire process with me.  

I hope that YOU are making your dreams come true this year.  This is our year.  Make it happen for yourself.  Throw that party you've always wanted to throw.  Color your hair that vibrant, pretty color.  Become the ideal version of yourself!

Breaking News.

Breaking News:  My permanent website has officially launched!  This website is better than my dizziest of daydreams.  Be one of the first guests to stop by and take a sneak peek: www.ashleyyazzie.com.  The site is a result of sleepless nights, scribbled sketches, thinking tank sessions, tears, phone calls, and the insurmountable talents of my web designer.  Hallelujah!  My website is up, and I am brimming with pride.

Weekend Revelry.

I had a one of those, "I'm-so-happy-and-glad-to-be-alive-and-in-love-weekends."  You know the ones.  Where it's good friends/food/music/weather.  Here's some of my high points:

1. Cindee gave me an amazing owl necklace!


2. Romantic dinner for two at chez Yazzie.


3. Watching Anna and Jonathan get their improv on.


4. Discussed the direction of my website with my Bunnie/graphic designer.


5. Dinner and a movie {Cafe 101/The Green Hornet}


6. Finished reading The Diving Bell and the Butterfly.


7. Cleaned the house.


8. Lots and lots of kissing.


9. Wore my new shoes.


10. Eating a home made dinner with my L.A. family.

*What did you do over the weekend?

Fall Acting Update.

This

past fall season I
was pleased as pie working on numerous exciting projects.  Here

are a handful of highlights I want to
share with you:

• Booked and filmed the lead
  in a 1950’s era film; SWEET APPLE PIE.


• Launched my website:  www.ashleyyazzie.com


• Refined my on-camera technique in a 8
  week intensive; taught by renowned acting coach Christinna Chauncey.


• Earned my first IMDB credit via
  BOYSENBERRY PIE!


• On-going reader for WE MAKE MOVIES
  writer’s workshop: www.wemakemovies.org


• Attended
  SAG events.  Learned key elements for
  successful agent/client relationships.

In

the winter months I'll be updating new footage for my demo reel,
finalizing details for my website, and working on some
impending top-secret projects!

In

other breaking
news:  I now have a new, favorite book.  Do yourself a
literary favor and obtain a copy of Sherman Alexie's THE ABSOLUTELY TRUE
DIARY OF A PART TIME INDIAN.  You'll laugh, you'll cry, you'll thank me
repeatedly upon completion.

Wishing

you a prosperous New Year, 



Ashley

On Goals, Hurdles, and Resolutions.

I want to share something with you that was recently shared with me. As many of you know I am extremely goal oriented.  I always have yearly goals and personal bench marks that I hold myself accountable for.  It's always rough when I have hurdles that inevitably pop up. When I fall of the wagon, I usually fall hard.  This is usually due to having too many goals at once.  Moreover, the perfectionist in me doesn't know where to start.  I've recently learned how to work on my goals bit by bit without feeling overwhelmed.  If fact, quite the contrary.  

My friend Sandy is a Yogi.  She recently went on a retreat that was all about obtaining goals and realizing dreams.  The counsel she was given was to do things one at a time.  Let's take getting into shape for example.  I fell off the wagon health wise in June when I went on vacation.  I knew I wanted to get back in shape.  I should run three times a week, improve my tone, take vitamins, and eat healthier.  The old Ashley would try to do all of that in one week.  Well guess what? That's too much change for one person, in one little week.  I would have inevitably crashed, felt bad about myself for failing, then gone back to my lazy ways.  

What Sandy counseled me to do was to add one healthy habit to my life in one calendar month.  Big Goal:  Get in shape.  Small Goal:  Run once per week, four times monthly.  This way I would sustain a healthy habit in my life, feel good about accomplishing my goal, then move forward adding another layer.  That's exactly what I did.  Three months ago I accomplished my monthly goal of running/weight training once per week. Then last month I added two days exercise, then one day of no sweets.  Then December I have added three days exercise, and two days no sweets. I cannot tell you how revolutionary this has been for me.  I feel great about what I've accomplished and slowly added to my routine.  

Professionally I've only been working on three goals; improving in film class, working on my website, and researching agencies that would be an appropriate fit for me.  Yes I have numerous goals that I want to work on for my career.  But how about I work on doing less better?  Once I get my submissions sent out, and my website up then I'll work on the next phase.  This has really helped me feel like I have more control in my life.  It's given me permission to focus on smaller bites of the big picture.  I feel like I have consistent follow through, which feels fantastic.  I hope this inspires you while working on your goals, hurdles, and resolutions.  Let me know if these ideas help you out in the future.  Or if you have more ideas to share with me.   XO, Ashley 

Whoops/and Liv.

I went to an audition today and couldn't get inside the locked theater.  Puzzled, I pulled up the information on my phone and realized I was a tad early.  A week early to be exact.  Whoops. P.S. I love these photo booth pictures of Liv Tyler.  She lives somewhere in my Los Feliz hood.  I've never seen her, but Bryan stood in line behind her at our local Albertson's.  "She's taller than me," he coyly reported. 

Black Ribbon Take Two.

This week I had to send a profile shot for an audition.  Really?  Isn't that sort of weird?  So, this is the picture I sent.  The black ribbon made yet another appearance. 

It's NOT easy.

I was reading Elsie's blog today on the struggles of being an artist.  Check it out {here.}  I want to share my response to Elsie regarding my pursuit of an unorthodox path.

I totally get it. My husband and I
are both artists living in Los Angeles. It's such an expensive city.
And nothing is easy here. Even something seemingly simple like parking
is such a struggle. Parking tickets, towing, paying to park at the
library, restaurants, shopping. It's ridiculous. 



I'm an actress, and I've been nose to the grind stone for years. I
remember when I was in college one of my acting teachers told us to look
to the left, then look to the right. He said, "Less than half of those
people will be pursuing acting within four years." I thought, "Not us.
We love what we do, and we are focused and committed." But, six years
later, most of the people in my graduating class are no longer pursuing
acting. 



Because being an artist is hard. It means sacrifices of time and
comfort. It means very little recognition. It means day jobs. It means
having barely enough money to get by. It means that my paycheck is
often imaginary. It means never EVER retreating. Even when it would be
so much easier to have a 401k, 9-5 job. 



We are artists because it's a visceral need within us. A desire that
cannot be hushed or denied. I get it. I get it so much I could cry.
But I take comfort in the small benchmarks that keep me sustained as I
go. Because I would be miserable pretending to do anything else but
actively pursuing what I live, and love to do. 



Ashley

What Happens On Set For Independent Films?

On Friday I was on set for filming SWEET APPLE PIE.  For my friends and family that aren't in the industry, I thought it would be fun to share the production process.  Weeks of advanced work occurs prior to ever setting foot on set.  Auditions for talent, script writing, set design, lighting design, equipment wrangling, and securing locations and permits.  The night before the shoot, I receive a call sheet that states the time I'm supposed to be present.

I woke up at 6:00a.m. to get ready, and gather all of my things.  I was picked up at 8:20am and taken to the location; an apartment.  The crew was already present and working on finishing set design.  They had already painted the walls and arranged much of the furniture.  I was swiftly sent to hair and make-up.  Dolly and Kelsey were the magicians on set.  They are so very talented.  They communicated heavily with the director regarding visual concepts for my look.  I had to look bruised and disheveled for my character.  All the while maintaining the integrity of the 1950's aesthetic.  Dark full brows, false lashes, and a full, pouty, red lip. 

By the time I was done with hair and make-up, the other actors showed up for their call times.  While they were in the chair, I started filming.  Much of film is sitting and waiting, waiting, waiting.  The technical aspects are key to success.  The lighting for example is very scientific.  I had a scene in the kitchen that caused a huge snag.  They required a mid-morning look, and it was looking too mid-day.  Also, there were camera shadows to consider that must be masked.

The budget for this film was $200.00.  And 3/4 of the money was spent on paint for the set.  Fortunately the director and crew are in film school, so they have access to amazing equipment.  However, they don't have it all.  Big budget films have a top notch dolly for the camera to pan in for close up shots.  We didn't have that luxury.  Creativity serves as an independent film maker's best friend.  Our camera man balanced the tripod on two skateboards to achieve the same feeling. 

Another set secret:  the apartment we used was from the 1940's.  And there weren't any traditional closets in the space.  There were several scenes centered around the wife being tied in the closet.  They created a faux closet by taking the bathroom door off of it's hinges and placing it in the living room door well.  Next they took a shower curtain rod, placing it in the hallway.  Then hung coats and shirts to make it look as if it is a closet.  Brilliant and creative.  It totally worked. 

For ultra low budget indies and student films there isn't much of a budget for wardrobe.  The red dress I wore, and the yellow dress the wife wore were provided.  But everything else was from our own closets.  My shoes, jewelry and apron were all from my own collection.  It's fortunate that I'm in love with the fifties to early sixties era.

Big budget films have several cameras to film from different perspectives.  Those perspectives are key for the editor to piece together the story effectively.  We only had one camera on set.  So, we had to stop and film from numerous perspectives.  It's important to keep set pieces and blocking routine to maintain consistency.  After filming is done, it's off to the editor to piece together the footage and add music.  The editor makes the true magic happen.  I'm realizing that more and more, as I'm pursuing film.  I hope you enjoyed this sneak peek into my world. 

Walking Leaf and a Booking.

Yesterday I went on a morning run.  On my cool down I almost stepped on a leaf.  It wasn't a leaf really.  It was actually a Preying Mantis.  Cool insect to find out side, not so cool if found inside!  Science rules. 

In other breaking news:  I just found out I booked a short film!  I am thrilled beyond explanation.  Truly.  I'll play a seemingly perfect 1940's house wife baking a pie for her husband.  I cannot wait!  As everyone knows, my dream is to do period film.  Unlike Edward Cullen, I am impressed by antiquity.  I have a few costume fittings to look forward to, and a dress rehearsal.  Filming is the first week in October.  Hooray!

Busy bee.

 

And she's off. Off to an audition, then a house warming party, then work.  This is a photo from a failed project this week.  {Le sigh.}  It's fine.  The next batch will be better.  I'll be so glad when my top secret project for my website is complete, and the way I want it. 

Creativity Tuesday: Ashley Yazzie's Summer Acting Update.

Happy
Summer!

Today it's piping hot
outside.  And if you strain to listen, I'll bet you can hear the sound
of pop can's being cracked all over Los Angeles.  This summer has been
jam packed with exciting acting events. 


Here are some updates:

• Completed my first demo reel!!  Click {here}
  to preview.


• Read lead role in a
  writer's workshop for Leslie Andrew's
  exciting, new screen play.  *Affiliated with "We Make movies."


• Attended Christinna Chauncey's "Auditioning for Network
  Television" workshop.


• Participated in
  work shops associated with BACKSTAGE Working Actor Series


• Attended SAG Life Stream event taught by David Ackert


• Landed call backs for "Five Women Wearing the Same Dress"


• Oodles of credits and updates added onto my talent resume 


• Hosted Actors Anonymous meeting; "Representation:
  Nailing the Meeting"

This month I'm thrilled
to begin my 8 week on-camera intensive with Christinna Chauncey.  By
August's end I'll have my website;  www.ashleyyazzie.com
up and rolling in preparation for a busy fall season.  I'm excited to
see what develops!


In other breaking
news:  My husband and I just got back from hiking the Aztec ruins of New
Mexico.  It was thrilling to explore a once thriving metropolis that
existed over a thousand years ago! 


Thank you for
supporting me, and being the cinnamon sugar to my churro.



Warmest Regards,


Ashley

Culture Club: Ashley Yazzie's Demo Reel.

Ask me if I have a demo reel.  {Non-existent pause.}  Why yes!  Yes I do.  Please pump up the volume to hear the dialogue.  It's super low on youtube for some reason.  Denizens of the world, I give you my first actor's reel. 

Finish Line.

I frequently see a graffiti happy face at the end of a nearby trail.  I often ponder on it's maker.  I wonder if the artist had an inkling of how many people would look upon it's silly face.  Then smile involuntarily at the smile.  It makes me run a smidgeon faster every time I see it.

Acting Update.

As many of you know I have been acting, and studying theater for much of my life.  I love performing with all my heart.  After I graduated with my B.F.A. I was curious about film and decided to start auditioning.  After my inaugural film, I was hooked.  The perfectionist in me loved the opportunity to continue doing a scene until it was right.

A large reason for moving to Los Angeles was to seek additional opportunity.  I have found that, and then some in California.  Recently I've been working on my demo reel (or a medley of films that I've done.)  Demos are used to show directors, casting directors, and agents your acting chops.  I'm happy to reveal that mine will be done this weekend.  It has been my Everest trying to book quality projects, obtaining the footage from the directors, then finding someone to edit the beast!  However, it's finally coming together!  Last week when I met with Ramsey to go over the preliminary editing, I had tears in my eyes.  I was overcome with emotion that my goals have finally materialized.

Last night husband updated new projects, education, and interests, on my talent resume.  As I looked over it I felt myself beaming with joy.  It's odd to review something tangible that represents hours of time, years in the making, thousands upon thousands of dollars worth of education, millions of miles tread for auditions, call backs, rehearsals, and show runs.  That piece of paper represents my resilience, persistence and tenacity.  It's a beautiful, powerful thing.  I love how that piece of paper continues to grow in tandem as I do, both as a performer and individual.  

Up next:

1. assembling my website:  www.ashleyyazzie.com


2. printing additional head shots, postcards, and business cards


3. proving to sought after agents to sign me


4. enrolling in an awesome class


5. producing/acting/directing/writing my own theater production


6. continuing networking/attending workshops

image found {here.}

Happiness is.

Happiness is this little Chihuahua.

I seriously love this little noodle.

Side note:
I had a wonderful night last night.
I read for my favorite writer
at We Make Movies.
And I read the lead character.
I was Marisol for ten minutes,
and it was lovely.
Acting makes me feel like a person,
in a way that no other event in life can replicate.

What invigorates you?

Two.

I just hit my two year mark in Los Angeles. I can't believe how time has danced by. I moved here one terribly, rainy week in February. My first night alone in my apartment I cried and thought, "Maybe I made a mistake." I didn't! I was cast in "And Away We Go To Wonderland" at the Santa Monica Playhouse and made the move to L.A. sans husband. At that time his band Alcoholiday had just released their album, and were doing quite well. He also had an amazing job with Gore Design. Five agonizing months apart, Bryan tied all lose ends and moved to L.A. with me!L.A. has meant meeting extraordinary friends: Melissa, Chris, Rachel, Court, Catherine, and Cindee. My La Grande Orange Crew, my industry pals, Each of you have made such an imprint on my life. I have learned much from you, and continue to be constantly inspired by your lives and art.
Los Angeles has meant career opportunities. I have more auditions in one week in L.A., then I ever had in an entire month in Phoenix. I've been in theater, film, master classes, readings, screenings, previews, call backs, cattle calls, rehearsals, meet and greets....and all of it has been thrilling and terrifying. I can't believe how far I've come. L.A. is a tough town, but if you fight back, she shows you some kindness.

Los Angeles has expanded our family. A year ago Bunny and I celebrated our fifth anniversary by adopting a Chihuahua/Terrier mix named Soba. We love that little sack of fur more than you'll ever know. He is much the temperament of Bryan: Shy at times, bold when provoked, a cuddle bug, sweet, loving, loves to eat, enjoys the outdoors, oh, and very naughty (again these are all Bryan's traits as well!)

I continue to be in awe by all that we've experienced here. Bryan is flourishing with his design work (photos to come) Soba is learning to be more obedient, and I'm learning how to create, and embroider a colorful life. And as a family we are so very pleased that the backdrop for each of our memories is the city of angels. Many locals call this "the city of broken dreams," but this location has expanded on our dreams, and made them very much a reality.

Graffiti Spotted: Hollywood, CA & Acting Update.

Yesterday I went to Hollywood to meet my director. He gave me a copy of our film! Miguel directed me in the short film entitled, "Boysenberry Pie." {Which is adorable by the way.} On the way to Cyber Java Cafe, I ran into a cheeky, chalk robot. I've always been frightened of robots, so I appreciated the propaganda!

Also, I never write when things are going well acting wise. Here's an update:

The last month was filled with auditions, call backs, dramatic reads, and shoots. Here’s some good news I wanted to share:

1. Learned oodles at Carolyne Barry’s commercial master class.
2. Participated in two sessions, reading new works with “WE MAKE MOVIES.”
3. Did a reading for writer Sandy Comstock’s exciting new pilot.
4. Attended the “LUCKY BREAK” industry networking event.
5. Worked on “on camera” filming techniques with colleagues.
6. Finished shooting a USC student film entitled, “ALONE.”

In the next two months I’ll continue working on my camera techniques, assembling my new credits into a demo reel (hooray!) auditioning, and reading new works with “WE MAKE MOVIES.” I’m excited to see what spring will bring!