All posts tagged: California

Chilling out with Cool Town Creations

This week we had a chance to sit down with Lao American artist and animator Carol Rasaphangthong also known as Carol K. Ras, who founded Cool Town Creations in Los Angeles. Over the years they’ve created short films and videos featuring original characters to well-known pop culture icons such as Mr. Spock, the supernatural investigator John Constantine from the comics, and more, applying their unique mix of humor and professionalism to each project. Cool Town Creations began as Cool Town Claymation, and today serves as a platform for creative artists to collaborate and make a simple thought tangible through stop motion animation.  Professionally, they offer services for commercials, music videos, short & feature films, business promotional videos, PSA’s and other projects, and can provide stop-motion animation seminars/workshops & consultation.  Can you tell us a little about yourself, and how did you develop an interest in art and animation in particular? What’s a part of your family’s story in coming to America that lingers with you the most? In a nutshell, I am like a Jill …

#BeLaod Creative Highlight: Thongxy Phansopha

For this #TBT, I’m recalling some moments that remain in my mind since gathering in San Diego for our 3rd Lao American Writers Summit. As I perused the inspiring and mesmerizing gallery of over 10 artists who sent in their artwork, I came across a young artist from Fresno named Thongxy Phansopha; who was furiously putting up what looked like a broomstick on the wall. Thongxy showcased two pieces from his “California Dreaming Transplant Series”. We had a quick chat about his pieces, how social justice reflects his work, and growing up Lao American. “It’s not a broomstick, it’s pieces of palm trees. Palm trees aren’t native to NorCal but it’s prevalent in Southeast Asia. While my parents came here as runaway transplants, I’m also here as a transplant on stolen land.”  “The one on the right is called Chasing Waterfalls. Because, TLC. It’s a tribute to my sister. It’s a story about Lao American youth. People who get lost and don’t make it in the American Dream. It’s that moment when you look in …