Art and Technology at Moneytree First Anniversary Celebration
Art and technology might seem like they are at opposite ends of the spectrum when it comes to creativity. This is not entirely the truth. Ever since human started to mix pigments and other materials to paint they were using technology wether they knew it or not.
Now we jump into the year 2014 and the lines between the two have become more blurred than ever before. They, in my mind, cannot be separated. It was at Moneytree’s first anniversary party that celebrated the coming together of code writers and artists of all styles. Those lucky industry insiders who were invited gathered in a Shibuya basement club NOS ORG for drinks, music, and artistic exchanges.
I was fortunate to be invited out to this gathering my the founder and chief executive Paul Chapman. His team has grown from just a handful of members almost 2 years ago to over 30 now.
I am not one for parties and groups. I never have been, nor will I ever. I much prefer small crowds. I personally find it overwhelming to be with so many people at one time. However, I quickly became at ease and slipped into conversation with the over guests.
The app Moneytree (An intelligent assistant for your money) was voted app of the year by Apple Japan. An app that keep the used up to date on all their financial endeavors. Simple to use and brilliantly designed the app has built strong roots in Japan. So much so that the founding member of m-flo and dj Taku Takahasi has his entire staff use it so he can keep tabs on his companies expenses.
Paul took the mic and introduced the company and welcomed all to the event. One big announcement was that Moneytree has finally come to the iPad. After the kampai (cheers) the turntables were turned over to dj Taku.
I watched in amazement of his dance music mastery. It was was not the hip hop style of deejaying I was accustomed too. It was just mesmerizing. Tweaks and tuns of the mixer’s knobs, and scrolling though a playlist on a glowing apple laptop.
I noticed a photographer, Takumi Yamamoto, with an old school polaroid camera on the edge of the dance floor. We chatted a bit, and we did what photographer do, we talked cameras. Also, rather than the selfie, we exchanged simultaneous portraits.
It was a great gathering of artistic and technically minded folks. A real collection of people across Tokyo, and beyond.
download Moneytree for free! from iTunes.
for more info check out Moneytree’s website Facebook and twitter page.
Moneytree is a company to keep watch on!
a Big SHOUT out to Paul for inviting me and letting me be a part of the celebration.
