Well, damn. I was editing this post and ended up hitting publish. As a result, I’ve been scrambling to upload pics to accompany this wonderful Q&A by one of my very favorite Art Department denizens. In an effort to introduce you all to the many, many people who work behind the scenes to bring you Stargate, I’ve taken it upon myself to badger these individuals into taking part in some fun fan Q&A’s. Today, it’s the lovely and talented Kate Heslup…
AussieSGFan writes: “Questions for Kate:
We are curious, and *very* interested in what you do!
This may seem a little silly, but what *does* a Draftsman do? Is it like drafting out the set-up of a scene or episode?
How much time do you put in for each one?
Thank You for answering our questions.”
Kate: That’s not a silly question at all! And you’re right, I do draft sets. For the most part, I take the production designer’s illustrations and turn them into architectural working drawings that our construction department uses to build from. Other departments use the drawings for different purposes. For instance the set decorators will use them to determine the type and size of furniture they’ll need for a particular set, while the lighting department will be able to plan the lighting for the set before it’s built. The amount of time per drawing depends on the size of the set – it could take anywhere from a day to a week or more.
Wolfenm writes: “Qs for Kate:
What’s your artist background — self-taught or schooled, previous gigs, ect?
Did you specifically seek out your current career, or did you have something different in mind when you decided to be an artist?
If you can, describe your typical process, from start to finish. If you please, include what sorts of things you do to get your creative engine running — things like listening to music, going for walks, threatening people with swords, ect — and what sorts of media you typically use (acrylic paint, copic markers, photoshop).
What advice would you give someone who wants to work in an art department in the television/film industry?
What has turned out closest to what you imagined (be it set or prop or overall scene), and what has turned out least like what you expected?
On a slightly different note, what has been your favourite and least favourite things to work on?
Who are your inspirations in the world of art?”
Kate: Hello, Wolfenm. I started out my schooling in fine arts in Vancouver and then got my degree in Industrial Design at the Ontario College of Art and Design in Toronto. My goal was always to work in film, although when I was younger I loved making clothes so much, I thought I’d work in costumes. I decided on Industrial Design because it covers such a broad spectrum of design, which ended up working out well for film work. My process always begins with research, and involves listening to loud music to tune out the rest of the art department, which can be a pretty busy place! As for materials, besides sketching out ideas on paper, I use Vector Works, which is a drafting program, almost exclusively. I also use PhotoShop and Illustrator, especially when I’m working on graphics, which I do when the need arises.
Interestingly enough, the set which turned out the closest to what I imagined and the one which was the least like I imagined was the same set, and happened a couple of weeks ago on one of the new Universe builds. The construction of the room was exactly as I pictured it, but it was a completely different color than I’d imagined J My favorite projects are the ones that really challenge me, which would probably surprise my co-workers, considering how stressed out I can get about them! Everything I’ve done for Universe so far has been great, and it’s been fun to be a part of things from the conceptual stages right through to the final sets.
Kabra writes: “Question for Kate:
Can I have your job? Ok How can I get a job like yours? I am working on my A.A. in art and I know I need more education. What other qualifications does one need to even work in the art department for such a profession?
and
What is it like working with Joe Mallozzi?
Thank you for taking the time to answer our questions.”
Kate: Hi, Kabra. It’s great to hear that you’re going to school for art! I think the first thing you need to think about is what area of film you are interested in. In the art department, many jobs involve either graphic design or set design, but there are also illustrators and model makers, to name a few. Set decoration and props are other departments which work closely with ours. I would suggest you continue your education in a field closely related to your desired job (like interior design, if you’d like to work in set dec, or graphic design if you’re interested in being a graphic designer). It would also be a good idea to look into film union requirements, if you want to work on union shows (like Stargate!). Good luck!
Sessy writes: “Q’s for quest blogger Kate:
From what I gather, Art department does the design for decorations of sets and such… Right?
1. It seems like something someone with this profession might be into: Did you ever play the Sims, 1 or 2, and if you did, were you an avid player? Did you download a lot of objects, did you design your own? If you did, where might we find them?
2. Did you ever have any props, costume or other department make anything for your own home, or take anything home from any set that you had (partially) designed yourself? If yes, what was it?
3. Does your home look anything like any of the stargate sets? If yes, which set would that be?
4. Do you watch the shows you work on? If so, what’s your favourite episode or moment or storyline?
5. What was your favourite project, or most memorable, most difficult, most awesome, most anything?”
Kate: Sessy – I may embarrass myself here, but do the Sims games include one where you can build your own city? I do remember playing that as a kid, but it was years ago! Although I’m sure that answered your other related questions, no, I wasn’t avid player and no, I never designed my own objects 8)
I don’t have anything from Stargate in my home, but I do have a piece of the airplane from the movie Alive hanging in my entry way.
My home does not resemble any of the sets from Stargate, although that is an interesting question!
With all the time I spend working on the show, I don’t often get a chance to catch it on TV. I suppose I do have a soft-spot for Seasons 1 & 2 of Atlantis though, which I watched round-the-clock as research for starting on the show in Season 5.
MaryD writes: “Questions for Kate:
1. What is your favorite medium to use in your renderings?
Mind: colored pencils, charcoal, & oil pastels.
2. What Art School did you attend & major?
Mind: Columbus College of Art & Design – Major in Computer Graphics
3. Is your portfolio online and if yes what is the website?
We would loved to see your work.
4. Have you worked on other TV shows or films?”
Kate: Hello, MaryD. The renderings that are done for the show are actually done by our production designer, James, but in my free time I like using acrylics, charcoal and conte. As I mentioned earlier, after getting a diploma in Fine Arts, I attended the Ontario College of Art and Design, majoring in Industrial Design. No, I’m sorry to say my portfolio isn’t currently on-line.
David writes: “Hi Kate, so apparently we are not allow to ask you out for a date, so I move on to my next question, nope guest the asking for phone number is probably ban to, so my third choice questions are:
What drawings do you do for the show, artistic or technical.
what is your favourite bit of work that have you done for Stargate/Stargate Atlantis . Have you work on any other TV shows film. Have you got any example of your work that you could share with us. What would be your dream job.”
Kate: Hey David! Good question – the drawings I do for the show are technical. And my favorite thing I’ve worked on so far is a set for Universe, so I can’t really give you any details! Other film jobs I’ve had include a couple of pilots, The Sandlot 3, The Guard (which is Canadian), The Tortured (which isn’t out yet) and the 4400. I am just coming up on working in the industry for 3 years. Within the film industry, I think my dream job (and my goal) is to art direct a feature… well, I guess I did do that, but I’d love to do a big feature! I am also really interested in the model shop and would love to work in body/ face casting and prosthetics.
Trish writes: “Is Sci-Fi your favorite genre? If not, what is?
What’s the weirdest thing you’ve worked on? I’m guessing something having to do with the wraith.
How did you learn to do what you do? How much do you think is natural talent vs. stuff you can be taught?
What are you most proud of?
What has given you the most trouble?
When you were little what did you want to be when you grew up?
Thanks for stopping by to talk with us!”
Kate: Hi Trish. Thanks for your questions! I think my favorite genre is drama, although I also like comedy a lot. As for the weirdest thing I’ve worked on, I think you’re right – it would have to be something to do with the wraith. During my first month on the show (last year in Season 5 of Atlantis) I was asked to do some stage layouts for the wraith sets. The components of the sets have weird nicknames based on what they resemble, so all of a sudden I was including “chicken feet” and “mushroom consoles” and “meat curtains” in my drawings. It was a confusing couple of days! I think I learned to do what I do 50% in school and 50% on the job. And of course, I’m still learning everyday. I feel lucky to say that I am doing what I always wanted to do growing up, although as I mentioned earlier, I was initially interested in designing costumes. I also went through periods of wanting to be either a teacher or a pediatrician.
sandygood writes: “Question for Kate: How did you start out in the business?
My daughter is in Art School and loves science fiction so this would be like a dream job.”.
Kate: Hello! After finishing school, I got into the film union (IATSE), and through contacts made there I got my first job (which was as an assistant on the Sandlot 3). I mentioned a little more about it a few questions back 8)
Peggy writes: “Questions for Kate: What is your favorite media to work with? What kind of art do you enjoy on your own time? Pottery, photography, painting, etc.?? Thanks for all the visual candy you give us.”
Kate: Hi, Peggy! I really enjoy anything three dimensional, including sculpture, ceramics and woodworking. I like working with clay, both sculpting and throwing pots, as well as body casting. My favorite 2-D art form is definitely life drawing.
EdgarDerby writes: “Everyone seems to have hit the important questions. Kate, who’s your second favorite Beatle?”
Kate: EdgarDerby, I’m going to have to go with Lennon.
Luis writes: “Kate thank you for the time do you actually work for Joe or MGM or Bridge studios?? Did you apply for the job or was it a stroke of luck to end up where you are now? If Stargate was to end production would you stay in the movie industry or move on???”
Kate: Hi Luis. I contract myself out to the production company. I was actually called by the art director last year to see if I was interested in working on the show. I came in for an interview and was hired that day. I can’t imagine Stargate ever ending production – but no matter what, I plan to stay in the film industry 8)
Sulien writes: “Questions for Kate:
First off, thanks for all of the work that you’ve done on the Stargate franchise! I’ve greatly enjoyed both series and a large part of my enjoyment has been the basic artistic designs used, especially the Art Deco look of Atlantis.
What is your personal favorite artistic style?
Did you draft any of the major set motifs for Stargate Atlantis, or the city itself?
Of the Stargate sets and items that you’ve drafted, which is your favorite?”
Kate: Hey, Sulien. My favorite artistic style is modern minimalist. I didn’t draft any complete sets on Atlantis, but I did design some set elements, for example some of the buildings in “The Outsiders” village set.
AMZ writes: “One of the things I love about your Q&A’s is that you often have people that are part of the production team who we would never otherwise get the chance to ask questions of! Kate being one of them. So here are some questions for her:
1. How did you get into props work?
2. How much creativity do you get as a props draftsman (is “draftsman” non-gender-specific, by the way)?
3. When you were growing up, what did you want to be?
4. Who do you work closely with during production?
5. What do you like the most about your work?
And finally, thanks so much for doing the Q&A! Stargate (Atlantis, Universe) wouldn’t be the same without the hard work and amazing talent of people like you.”
Kate: Hello, AMZ. Thanks for writing in! I don’t actually do much props work, which you may have discovered through reading some of my other responses. During production, I work closely with the other members of the art department (of course!) which currently include the production designer, the art director and two set designers. Outside of the art department, we work closely with construction, paint, props, set dec and the model shop. What I like most about working in the industry is that it’s always changing, especially when you’re working on films or shorter series. A lot of interesting people work in film, and it gives me the opportunity to earn a living by being creative!
duneknight writes: “Questions for Kate:
-whats the hardest part of being a Draftsman for stargate?
-How are you able to convey what the writers want in your work?
-How much of your personal input is allowed in your stargate work?
-Where does your inspiration come from?”
Kate: Hello, Dune. I think the hardest part of my job is probably working with tight deadlines. If an aspect of the set isn’t working, or last minute changes happen close to the shooting day, it can mean that drawings need to go to construction and be built that same day. As for conveying what the writers want – that’s more up to the production designer. He gets their ideas onto paper, and I translate his illustrations into working drawings to be used by the crew. My personal design ideas need to take a back seat to the overall desired feel of the set, although I have much more freedom when designing graphics.
Jinx writes: “For Kate:
What style or period is your biggest influence, & can we see nuances of it in your designs?
Can you share your background/training & what prompted you to select this avenue?”
Kate: Thanks for the questions! I hope you can find the answers in some of my other responses 8)
Shirt ‘n Tie writes: “Question for KATE!!!
Many thanks for taking the time to answer these questions:
What’s the significance of the heart on the wall (behind you in the photo)? SGU: Best gig yet? or are features more fun?”
Kate: Hello! I was standing in the production office when that photo was taken, and I’m not sure what the heart is all about. Just a random office decoration, I think. Stargate is definitely a great show to work on! I remember when I was hired, I was “welcomed to the family”, which is not far off. Many people on the show have been working here for years and have formed pretty tight relationships with each other. For me, Stargate is prefect at this point in my career, as I am learning a lot and being allowed to put what I am learning into play. With a less experienced crew, I probably wouldn’t be able to do that so much. In the future though, I’d love to get more experience on features.
Shiningwit writes: “*waves at Kate* Don’t kid yourself that we’re not interested we’re FANS for crying out loud, we devour any inside info we can get our geeky little paws on LOL.
The only draughtsmen I know work on the building of warships and submarines so its obviously technical drawing. What subjects did you take to lead you into that side of things? what qualifications after school did you take? Our draughtsmen have to serve an apprenticeship, did you? and if so where? Have you done any other work in the genre? Is Joe really the tyrant he’s made out to be?
Thank you for taking the time to indulge our curiosity.”
Kate: Hi Shiningwit! You’re right, I do draft technical drawings. In high school, I took a lot of fine arts courses, followed by fine arts in college. It was there that I first learned to hand draft and completely fell in love with it. My first project was drafting the kitchen of my apartment, and it took off from there. In the Industrial Design program I took in Toronto, we also did a lot of drafting – again all hand drawing. I later took a course in Vector Works, which is what I use now. There isn’t really an apprenticeship program for the art department – my first job in the field was as an art department assistant. And yes, Joe is every bit the tyrant you think he is! 8)
MaggieMayDay writes: “For Kate: Any Burners in the art department? If you have no idea what I just asked, then this one will do: How do you feel about primitive, naive or outsider art in relation to the very technical skill of draftsmanship?”
Kate: While I love design, I probably love art more… does that answer your question?!
Michael writes: “Questions for Kate:
Will you go out with me?
Which do you like better? Strawberries or Elderberries?
When you do go out with me, do you like French or Italian?
After the date, would you rather go dancing or back to my place to discuss world domination?
On the second date, can you try not to talk about Joe M. as much as you did on the first date?
Yes we all know he is a fantastics guy who is multi talented, but it kind of creeped me out, especially when you pulled out the locket that you had around your neck with his photo in it!?!”
Kate: Funny Guy!
Randomness writes: “Questions for Kate.
(Stargate Atlantis)
Wraith. Stuff of nightmares, or happyness?
Also
Keep up the good work, we all care what you have to say!”
Kate: Hi! Thanks for the kind words. I think I answered your wraith question a couple back. While I found the sets a little confusing, it was always funny to see wraith in the line up for the lunch truck!
2Cats writes: “QUESTIONs for Kate Stargate Art Department Draftsman extraordinaire…
1 — Do you create the old fashioned way, using a drafting board & mechanical pencils or is there a software package you can recommend?
2 — Is a background in architectural drawing required or just a good thing to have?
3 — Can you provide Joe with some draft specs to post for us here on the blog? I’d love to see early efforts and then the final product.
4 — Do you prefer to design objects, such as props as opposed to sets and / or ship/creature models?
5 — What was your most challenging design assignment?
6 — Are you thrilled to be working on such a fabulous creation that is Stargate?
Thanks so much for participating Kate! Happy drafting!”
Kate: Hi, 2Cats!
1 – I can do both and originally learned on a drafting board, but now I use Vector Works.
2 – A background in architecture isn’t required, but many set designers have studied architecture, and I think it helps a lot.
3 – Since most of my drawings are for Universe – I don’t think they can be posted yet!
4 – So far I have only designed sets, or pieces of sets, but I think I would love to try designing props.
5 – I’m working on it right now, actually.
6 – Yes, so thrilled 8)
Airelle writes: “HI to Kate, and thanks for answering questions from the curious bloggers.
–What kind of hours do you have to work to get all that great artwork done?
–Whats your favorite dessert at Bridge? (joe says they have good ones!)
–What kind of budget do you get to work with?
—thanks again for stopping by.. “
Kate: Hello, Airelle. We work pretty long hours in the art department. We start at 7am and go until 7pm. Sometimes we work on the weekend as well, when there is a deadline looming, but so far I’ve been spared! As for desserts off the truck, Joe is right – they are amazing! I recently tried a caramel-fudge brownie which was insanely delicious.
Angelus writes: “Question for Kate:
Being you’re a part of the Art Department section of the Stargate crew I imagine you must deal with a lot of art designs for props and perhaps even film sets.
How does it feel to one day design something on paper and then eventually walk onto a live recreation of your design. Are you always happy with how it turned out or do you visit the set often and think “That could’ve been improved” or “I should’ve done that differently”
Also, I don’t know if you’ve been part of the crew on SG-1 and Atlantis days, But… If there was something you could’ve changed, And were allowed to do so… What would you have done differently?
Thanks for your time,
Angelus”
Kate: It’s pretty cool to draw something, and then see it in real life. I am always picking my designs apart and thinking about what I would have changed, especially when it comes to scale. Something I’ve drawn at ¼” scale looks pretty different when it gets built full size.
AscendedTauri writes: “How much time are you given to prep and finalize a typical episode? What is the most difficult aspect of your job?”
Kate: We are generally on a schedule of about 8 days of prep and 8 days of shooting. That means that when the shooting crew is filming an episode, the art department has finished its prep for that show and has moved on to prepping for the next episode. For episodes that are art department heavy, though, we can start prepping months in advance – way before we’ve even seen a script!
Jo writes: “Questions for Kate:
1) Do you always take on board somebody’s input if they look at your idea/something you’ve designed and say ‘that’s awful, you should do it this way?’
2) When you get stuck for ideas, what sort of things do you do to get extra stimulation/inspiration?
3) How often do you get to make something from scratch?
4) How often do you have to do exactly what someone else wants, because they say so?
5) How often has something fallen apart or somebody just happened to accidentally wreck it just after you’ve finished making it? (this has to have happened a few times right?)
6) When you make something that is meant to be broken during the show, do you feel sad afterward that after all that effort you put into it, it was just… broken?
7) If you were allowed to change anything about the art department, what would it be?
Is there ever a time when there are so many things going on in the department at the same time that there is no where left to work? What did you do then, if such a thing happened? (cos, to my imagination, that’t highly possible)”
Kate: Hey, Jo. Yes, I always do take other people’s advice, since for the most part the people giving me the advice know a lot more than I do! And usually their suggestions are practical rather than aesthetic, which encourages me to consider the needs and restrictions of other departments building or working on the set. When I get stuck, I usually go for a walk around the studios – there are always people around from our show or other shows and getting out the office helps me to clear my head. I also do a lot of internet research, talk to others in the art department, watch classic sci-fi films which have similar themes, or old episodes of SG-1 or Atlantis. How often do I do exactly what someone wants, because they say so?… Everyday J I have never had anything I’ve designed broken on set either accidentally or scripted, but its good practice in film not to get too attached to things. If it happened, I don’t think I’d be too bummed, but then again I would just be the one that designed it, rather than the one who spent hours making it! If I could change anything about the department, I would change our start time to 8:00am and turn one of our offices into a meditation room for the times when things get overwhelming! It can get pretty hectic in the art department at times, and when that happens I usually pack up my stuff and head into our “viewing room” (where we watch dailies) for twenty minutes. It’s quiet in there, and if I shut the door, people can’t find me 8)
Am I first to post!! Woo hoo!!
This is going to be an interesting read… Didnt know this was coming!
Thanks Joe!
Daniel
meat curtains? 😕 I can’t believe you guys went there…
😛
das
two gay characters is too much. i guess a lonely gay character is just too harsh. but how are they gonna repopulate the Destiny?
and thanks to Kate. i think i know someone who would like to be a Draftsman.
Hi! I’m very curious about one thing:
Do you writers have any plans for young O’Neill clone (season 7 episode 3) in a future stargate movie?
What is going on with him? Now he should be in his twenties.
One thing I’m sure: if he is not a military he is a fisherman.
bye
Thanks joe.
Hi Joe
Just wondering, who’s responsible for managing the schedule of producing the show?
It must be an enormous job to organise the timing of bringing together scripts, sets, costumes, props, filming, editing, vfx, sound, and all the rest (i can’t think of anything else) for 20 episodes a year, not to mention the inevitable countless delays and early finishes.
I’m finding more and more people I ask saying John is their second favorite…very intriguing.
Thanks to Kate for taking time out and sharing. And as always thanks to Joe for making it possible.
At the risk of objectifying women. Your dear friend Kate is gorgeous. PUT HER IN STARGATE UNIVERSE!
great guest appearance. but the lack of sleep is making the answers blur. guess I’ll re-read in the morning…thanks to Ms. Heslup for participating.
coucou Joseph!!
Sympas ces photos, Kate est vraiment trés jolie et elle à l’aire aussi gentil 🙂
Je ne serais pas la pendant une semaine car je serais avec mon cheri et on à l’intention de beaucoup sortir de chez moi, en éspérant qu”il fera beau mais pour l’instant c’est mal parti.
Donc je vous dit en avance Joyeuse Pâques!
Bisou, Bisou
Yay! Thanks for the Q & A, Kate!!! I like the 8) smileys!!!
After being at work for the day, I can now finally read it… I was in a rush to get to work when I check, but didnt have time to read it! As for my first post, the first part is a question… You guys probably dont care lol…
I agree with Josh, put her in Stargate Universe! She should have been an actress! Nice smile 😀
Thanks Kate for answering the questions, great answers, and thanks Joe for getting it to happen.
Daniel
Hahaha, yes the city building game is part of the Maxis world, it’s called Sim City (you may also know simtower, sim hospital, etc).
I was talking about Sims 1 and 2 though, where you can build little people living in little houses you can build, with little furniture you can come up with yourself as well. You should try typing “sims 2” on google image search and take a look. Many people build their own objects and “skins” and “meshes” for the Sims. Meshes are the outer shapes of people or objects. Skins are colorings of meshes – these include a Wraith skin (meaning you can have one of your characters be a Wraith, walking around looking like a Wraith) as a variation on the already available Vampire or Alien characters in the game, but also many very interesting furniture objects and sets of such – from Marrakesh shade seats to hacker’s or architectural offices to loft furniture, etc… Essentially, people who make the furniture do what you do for real, only they do it virtually. And they stick with it to the final result as well. That’s why I wondered.
BTW if you enjoyed the SimCity game, you may enjoy the space phase of the new maxis game spore. 🙂
Thank you so much for answering all our questions!
A BIG thank you to Kate for a wonderfully insightful Q&A. Question for Joe: Do you guys employ ANY non-photogenic people? Kate is as gorgeous as Ashleigh – you guys need to spruce up a bit you know!(except maybe Joe who always looks dapper)
Joe is an excellent ambassador for bridging the gap between fans and fandom. Keep up the good work peeps.
@ Lisa S. – Ha! Wolverine: Worst Day Ever inspired my comment! I felt kinda dweeby picking it up on Wednesday, but so glad I did! I haven’t finished it yet because of how hectic the week’s been, but I’m totally enjoying every page of it.
And speaking of hectic…it has been one hell of a week, Joe. Just loads of stuff happening since Monday, and it was hard for me to concentrate on the Powers discussion – I literally had to force myself to join in, but I did so because you reached out to those of us who prefer pretty pictures with our stories, and I aprreciated it. 😉
@Deni B. – Well, yesterday was topped off when, on my way home from the police station, I passed a fatal accident that had not yet been cleared (the officer who helped me had just returned from the scene). So close to home I worry that someone I know may have been involved – usually in small towns it does. So, I came home, fed the cats and met Mr. Das down at our local divy bar, ate greasy mac and cheese and chicken tenders doused in wing sauce and all sorts of other crap, and washed it all down with wine…which also washed down the dark chocolate I ate once I came home – this morning I feel GREAT! 😀 I’m even ignoring the fact that it is pouring rain, and my trunk is probably an ‘indoor’ swimming pool by now. 😛
Deni – also been thinking about Todd (ha! when do I not?!) as a team member. Here’s the thing about Todd – the thing I love MOST about him – is that he can kill you with a touch. That’s what creates that great dynamic between him and the humans…it’s what makes him a threat, while at the same time makes it possible for the viewer to sympathize with his need to feed. To take that away chances him greatly, and just turns him into a ‘human’ with green skin and sharp, pointy teeth. In my ‘perfect’ world, I would prefer to see him keep the feeding ability and the need/desire to feed, while also finding an alternative food source. Perhaps the alternative food source could sustain him LONGER in between a human meal (1 or 2 a year instead of 6 or 8), but he’d still eventually need that human meal in order for him to maintain his health and vitality. I mean, as a team member that would really keep everyone on their toes, looking for the first signs of that deeper hunger. Also, keeping his feeding ability means he keeps his ability to gift life – what more could you ask for in a teammate?! 😉
das
appreciated, too. 😉
das
Wow, you leave town for a few days & all sorts of things happen!
I really need to take the ‘puter with me next time….
….. WOW!
I wish I was able to ask some questions… or more like a “proposal” if you know what I mean 😀
She seems so cool, and is a knockout. Her smile got me. I am now a big fan.
Wow.
Blue Agave sweetener is fantastic to work with.
So… uh, is she married? If not, I am on the way to Vancouver tomorrow come work for you Joe. Mark my words.
Hey everybody, check this out, really good stuff 🙂
Have a great weekend! Deni
Thanks Kate for the wonderful answers. Chicken Feet and Meat curtains. 😯 😆 That’s so hilarious! I’ll never look at a wraith ship the same.
Again, Joe, you spoil us with a very cool Q&A.
And I agree with Josh. Kate is gorgeous. And adorable. She should be in Universe. But no meat curtains in her scenes, ok? 😉
Trish
@ Trish – I SURE hope you know what you are saying…
😉
das
Joe: This doesn’t have anything to do with this particular blog, but I was reading my AKC Family Dog magazine and came across this adorable Christmas Tree with dogs all over it. The one they displayed was Bulldog, but there is an option for a tree of pugs, so I immediately thought of you. They offer: Border collie, Boston terrier, boxer, bulldog, chihuahua, German shepherd, German Shorthair Pointer, Miniature Pinscher, Pomerarian, Pug, Scottie, Sheltie, Spring Spaniel and Yorkie.
Well I’m pretty miffed Golden retriever isn’t on this list at all.
But if you want to view it:
http://www.danburymint.com/dogs
Then click on Shop by Theme, Christmas, and Trees/Wreaths
Thank you Kate for answering all our questions. Your answer to my question was very helpful. I really gave me something to think about. There really is a lot one can do with an art degree.
Thank you again and all the best to you.
Joe, you really have a lot of cool people working with you.
@Das: truth be told… I rarely do know what I’m saying. 😆
@Deni B: Ah! That was BEAUTIFUL! It’s stuff like that song that makes me so proud to be an earthling. Ever see that Flash Gordon movie? Ya know… the cheesy one that was so over the top it was awesome? And the part where they are trying to suck the life out of that guy (the doctor or whatever?? been awhile, sorry) and he’s thinking of the Beatles and stuff like that and can’t be defeated. Yeah… that’s the feeling I get. So thanks for sharing it with me. I’m now going to send it to my mom so she can cry while she watches it. 😀 We’re total suckers in my family.
@PBMom: No golden retrievers? That’s weird. I feel your pain. Try finding Great Pyrenees ANYTHING… it’s very difficult. A couple of times I’ve gone into places that advertise: “We’ve got YOUR dog breed.” Guess what, no they don’t. 😈
@das: Nothing like some good fattening food to get your mind off a bad day, hey? Re Todd, I agree with what you’ve said, but would like it if he keep his human feeding to extras we don’t know or care about – no team members (ok, except for the one I can’t stand…, I’d actually enjoy that, but I’ll leave it at that). Good thing the Wraith don’t eat dogs or I’d have stopped watching ages ago.
LOL, you have the “indoor swimming pool” with your trunk, I had the couch/Ark/Jaccuzzi/fish tank.
@Trish: Glad you enjoyed! It kindasorta gives you some hope, doesn’t it? Oooh, I once adopted a Pyr that had been abused and neglected, had to find her another home (I named her Lola Falana, she was a showgirl) because she wouldn’t stop humping Elway and stressing him out to where he was having seizures on a weekly basis, never mind what she did to the house. I’d always wanted one and was so angry at the stupid people that had her before. She’s happy now, I hear (living on a huge farm with horses and such), but lucky you, I’ve always wanted one (and a Newfie)!
Hi Joe, how’s your weekend coming along? Tell us what you’ve cooked! Obviously, I need food, so I’m outta here.
@ Trish – Urban dictionary is your friend. 😉
@ Deni B. – Dammit! That made me cry! Whatever will folks think of me now? 😛 So beautiful…loved it! Thanks so much for sharing. *hugs*
Perragrin – Yo, buddy! You out there? Forgive my neglect…it’s been crazy lately. I still wanna have that chat about Shodd…whenever I get a free moment. How’s the shoulder? Hope all is well!
Narelle – Did the fires ever go away? How is everyone down there?
Cheers, all…have a great weekend! Me? I gotta get back to cleaning my house. 😛
das
@ Deni B. – Awwww…come on! We all wanna see Todd suck on Sheppard again! Nothing much…just a little sucky-poo…maybe to prove to other Wraith that Sheppard isn’t his pal. Of course, he’d have to give it back again later, and all know how Shep feels about that! *wriggles eyebrows*
Hey, Joe – a question about Travellers…
When Sheppard agreed that the ‘gift of life’ felt ‘kinda good’, there was just something in his tone and body language that suggested it felt better than he’d like to admit, if you get my drift. Was that your intention for the scene, or was that all Flanigan’s interpretation?
Any insights would be appreciated, as always!
das
@Das: 😯 😯 😯 Greeeat! Now ANOTHER phrase I must strike from my vocab! Ew! And LOL! 😆 But mostly… Eeeeeeeew! I so had no clue!!! *shudder*
Plus… I got teary-eyed at Deni’s vid. I’m sure my mom will, too. So what do my mom and I think of you? We think you must be related to us! 😀
@Deni: Aw! Poor, poor baby. 🙁 Doesn’t it make you mad and sad how people abuse other creatures? We rescued Ziggy but had bought Sebastian from a breeder. Since Sebastian was our (Jeremy’s and mine) first dog together and our first Pyr Jeremy was afraid to use a rescue. Plus we had Allie and she was 4 at the time. Sebastian was the love of my life. I love Ziggy. He’s just a handful right now. He’s about 100 pounds of excited, fluffy toddler. With shark-like teeth. 🙄 And he still likes to bite to get your attention. Not a hard, wounding bite. I’m not sure what to call it. A grab, maybe? Since a dog’s mouth is it’s real hands. He’s *grabbed* my knees, toes, fingers, hands, elbows, chin, hips and even my, um, backside. 😳 Yeah… he got me good on the bum, ONCE! Then I yelled at him. He and I have an understanding that no one touches that part of my body. By next year I think Ziggy will be the love of my life. I’m so glad you found a good forever home for the pyr in your life. You know you could look up the rescue here in Florida when you’re ready for your next dog. See if any of those lovelies strike your fancy. They were so correct to place Ziggy with us. He does fit in. As for Newfies I would love one, too. 😀 If I won the lotto I’d have a farm of giant dogs. Tibetian Mastiffs have also caught my eye. And Irish Wolfhounds have a special place in my heart. An english mastiff or two would be nice…
Shutting up now.
Ack…go so carried away about Todd and Shep, I forgot to add:
Oddly enough, no water in my trunk. I am pleased, considering the size of the gap. Hubby thinks it’s due to the rain direction, etc…but who cares! As long as my trunk stays dry, I’m happy!
And as far as who they could feed to Todd – well, there’s always the Genii!! 😈 But I can think of a few others…
Here’s what I don’t understand. The team shoots people all the time, right? Didn’t Ronon even kill a villager (or guard) in The Tower? It’s been a while, but I think he did. And they blew a whole bunch to kingdom come in Outsiders. The Lanteans kill all the time, and no one raises an eyebrow. But Todd sucks up Wallace, and people get their knickers all in a bunch over it. Dead is dead – whether it’s at the hand of a Wraith, or the end of a gun. Why is it that shooting a bad guy doesn’t make viewers as uneasy as sucking one to death? To this day I swear that’s how Kolya should have gone out…afterall, if anyone deserved to be on the receiving end of Todd’s hunger, it was him.
Oh, well…nothing I can do about it now, besides gripe. 😀
das
@ Trish – Yeah, I figured you didn’t. Now…think about how you said, “Kate is gorgeous. And adorable. She should be in Universe. But no meat curtains in her scenes, ok?” I had my lulz for the day, that’s for sure! 😆
And I forgot to say thanks to Kate for the great Q&A, and for all the giggles I’ve had today. It’s sure made me think of hive ships much differently, that’s for sure! 😉 Thanks for all your hard – and very creative – work!
das
@Trish: Great Pyreness are awesome dogs, too. I say we rise up in revolt to this obvious display of species-ist behavior. No longer will we tolerate our dogs being excluded from mass marketing of any type. It’s true prejudice I say! LOL
@Trish: BTW: My dog’s AKC name is
Belvedere’s Madison Avenue (we call her Maddie)
We had to include the kennel name in there. We decided on that because someone was naming her brother Belvedere’s Mercedes Benz (calling him Ben), and another was calling their dog Belvedere’s Indiana Jones (and calling him Indy). So we had to come up with something good to keep up with the Joneses…literally.
Then we got her a bling pink collar and everything so she would look like she was part of Madison Avenue.
We were both born in New York and what is Madison Ave all about. Fashion and advertising. And what better advertising is there than the happy boy/happy girl face of a golden retriever. These guys sell products!! So that is how we came up with her name.
Great Pyrenees also have that happyboy/girl about them, too. Their white coats are just beautiful, but wow, they are big dogs. Maddie is about 53 pounds or so; I’m used to having the more beef 75-pound males. My faithful daily companion. I work at home telecommuting for my employer so lays down next to my chair, and my son is the center of her universe. This is my son with autism. She sees him and forget me! She is outta here. So much love.
I’m thinking Miss Brie is going to be a new part of the Mallozzi family. She is adorable, too.
Joe, I got the hint.
Have a blessed Easter everyone.
@Trish: LOL, right now, I have teeth marks (bruises, really)on my bum from my old Greyhound “insisting” on a biscuit this morning. She’s really old, but she’s a spunky old bitch and one of my favorite “people”. Right now, no, no way I’m ready for another one. Elway takes a lot of attention (and money), I still have my daughter’s Cocker here (another 6 months), my own Cocker and Flannery (the Greyhound) who probably won’t be around much longer 🙁
@Das: LOL, Todd and “Shepperd’s Pie” 😉 Dead is dead, I agree, but we’ve gotta have good guys and bad guys, and poor Todd was, well, very very bad. Sucking one to death (ROTFL) probably has something to do with our ideas about vampires, no? Geez, can you imagine being on the receiving end of his hand?
Deni B. wrote: “Geez, can you imagine being on the receiving end of his hand?”
Yes. Yes I can. *siiiigh*
(besides, I figure if I quick tickle his pits mid-feed, he’ll ‘snort’ me right back out through his hand! It may be an unconventional way to received the gift of life, but hey, a gal’s gotta do what a gal’s gotta do! Yeah, I’ve got it all figured out. 😀 )
And since when has Todd been very, very bad? He’s been such a good Wraith (considering). Heck, by my calculations, he should be getting gold stars on all of his test papers… well, except for that pop quiz aboard the Daedalus. 😛
Joe – can you tell I REALLY don’t wanna be cleaning the house today? 😛 Just have vacuuming left, and the kitchen…and half the bathroom. But I’ve had way more fun playing here today! Thanks!
das
@Deni: So glad I’m not the only one with teeth marks in odd places. 🙄 Life would be dull without Ziggy-boy. But it’s good he’s sooooo good-lookin’. 😉 Yeah, I know you’re not ready. I really get that. I’m just sayin’… in the future… waaaay into the future. I think everyone who loves a Pyr has to own one at least once in their lives. 🙂
@Das: Yeah… I’m trying not to think of what I was saying there. 😯 I have such a knack for saying really terrible things and some people don’t get that I’m very clueless about their meaning. Like the time I blurted out at a company dinner (Jeremy works for Microsoft) that Jeremy and I love going to the adult theater. 😳 Uh… yeah, I first started by calling it the Premiere theater. But that just confused people. I got frustrated and yell, “You know! The ADULT theater!” Well… lemme tell ya, NOTHING, and I mean NOTHING grabs the interests of Microsoft employees more than the phrase “Adult Theater.” I had literally EVERYONE’S complete and utter attention… 🙄 I said, “Ugh! Not THAT kind. I mean… you have to be 21 to get in.” Which, I will be the first to admit did not help my case at all. What joy to look up and see my husband’s manager looking at me all bug-eyed. I said, “It shows the same movies as the regular theater but has a full bar and free popcorn! Sheesh. I’m not talking adult movies.” At that point, people had made up their minds. Funny thing and I’m sure it’s just a coincidence… I’ve never been at another Microsoft dinner since then.
Hope that distracted you from house cleaning… I know it did me! 😆
@PBMom: Our other dog is half pyr half golden retriever. Her name is Annabelle. I think she and Maddie would be great buds. Annabelle has a blinged-out pink collar. But no pedigree to go with it. I love that you gave your dog such a creative name. It’s a nice story, too. 🙂 Both my dogs are big. Annabelle’s just under 100 pounds. I’m afraid Ziggy’s still growing. We’re always told our dogs are gorgeous. They remind me of slightly bigger goldens. Jeremy grew up with goldens and wanted a similar type of dog. He’s happy with the pyrs. They are *showy* enough for him. 😉 Yes! We should rise up against the unfairness to all dog breeds! But mostly the under-representation of the gorgeous ones. Don’t hate our dogs because they are beautiful! 😆
Hi Joe, Yes, thanks for letting us play, it’s really been fun 😉
@Das: I’ve re-dried the same load of laundry 3 times, so that tells you where I’m at with cleaning house today/tonight. Around here, you do the floor and two of the dogs MUST drink water immediately. Elway loves to hold some in his mouth and spill it everywhere and the Cocker is just a slob. Hubby’s home anyway, so it’s futile. Half the bathroom? How do you do half a bathroom? You are a character and half, chica 🙂
15 seasons of sg1/sga combined, not one woman writer on show ever. Why?
Hi Joe,
My sister is an avid reader of your blog. Her birthday is April 12th (Easter), could you give her a shout-out? Her name is Maddy. Thanks!
@ Trish – HA! I read your first line to Deni as ‘So glad I’m not the only one with teeth in odd places.’ 😆 With the current misunderstandings, you can only guess where my mind went! 😆 Oh…uh…I mean… 😳
And don’t get me started on saying inappropriate things at inappropriate moments. Sometimes I wish I could just stop my brain from talking out loud. I also get really nervous around people which makes me ramble, and that certainly doesn’t help. I keep telling myself to ‘think before speaking’, but…ya know…it really doesn’t work for me. 😛
It’s 9:45, and I just finished my housework, and JUST now eating dinner. NOT a good thing for the waistline. 😛
das
@Trish (aka whovian) Funny story… I can’t say I’ve done that before, but saying something louder than was intended seems to happen all the time to me!!!
Awesome that your husband works at Microsoft.. I love Apple’s though 😀
Dan
@ Deni – Hubby cleaned the shower while he was showering for work! 😀 He’s such a good boy sometimes. Anyway, I just had the other half to do – which is done…kitchen is done…everything is DONE! WOO! I can RELAX tomorrow!! Prolly catch up with some of my reading…
See what you’re doing to me, Joe??! With SGA‘s cancellation, a lot of the fun has gone out of Wraithy discussions and speculation, so I’m not hanging at GW as much. Since I watch very little tv (compared to most people), and Mr. Das often works nights, I have nothing to do in the evenings now…except read. God…sometimes I ‘hate’ you. 😉
das
Das, wow your making me depressed. All your comments are so deep and mine are so shallow. LOL. What books do you read besides the ones joe assigns. Have you read fahrenhight 451 before.
Mr. Mallozzi, have you read farhenhight 451 before. It is an amazing book.
Thanks Kate for answering our questions.
dasNdanger, I understand how you feel.
I been working on building a Wraith Hive and Atlantis within my Sims 2 game. This is how I’m handling SGA’s cancellation.
You can see my work at:
http://www.facebook.com/album.php?aid=38838&id=1241439142
@ MaryD – Poo…I can’t see it as I’m not on facebook. Do you have any other link to it?
I really should try doing something creative Wraith-wise. I can draw, but haven’t really, I can make stuff out of other stuff…but haven’t…I’ve just been really lazy lately.
I blame Joe. 😀
das
@ Major D. Davis – Whoa, whoa, WHOA! Deep?!? 😆 I was thinkin’ more along the lines of a wee bit pervy. 😛
Simple, concise comments are just as important to the discussion…and sometimes even more appreciated because your point isn’t lost in a myriad of words. So, don’t underestimate the power of a simply-stated comment…and never think your opinions or queries are less important than others.
🙂
das
@ dasNdanger
@ MaryD – Poo…I can’t see it as I’m not on facebook. Do you have any other link to it?
dasNdanger. I just uploaded the Sims 2 Screen Caps of Stargate Atlantis Gateroom and Vincent, the Wraith Sim to my non-developed Sims fansite: http://www.simstown.com
The Stargate Atlantis Gateroom – Please keep in mind due to the game limiations and my level of building skills this version of the Stargate Atlantis Gateroom is not the same as the one on the TV series.
Vincent, The Wraith – is not meant to look like any particular Wraith in the show. I made him a couple years ago as a test Sim. However, since the Episode Vegas aired, a couple people have told me this Sim looks like the Wraith played by Neil Jackson.
More screen caps to come since I’ve near completion of the 1st floor of Atlantis.
OT-
This made me think of your dogs 🙂
http://www.raincitystory.com/flash/screenclean.swf
Hi kate are you single ? 🙂