'WET PAINT' IS A COLORFUL ADDITION TO REALITY TV
Oakland Tribune
March 30,2006

Oakland artists Maurice Jasper and Michael Wellington of West Oakland's "Maurice's Pieces" take center stage in this new TV series.

The two own a custom spray paint shop that turns everything from snowboards to club walls into art. And in between their jobs, we learn more about these two men -- fathers and husbands -- who are making their way in the world.

In tonight's episode, the creative entrepreneurs take on the job of creating a new mural for Oakland Caribbean nightclub Oasis and putting their artistic mark on the beloved Fender guitar of R&B player Dwayne Wiggins, all within a three-day deadline.

Jasper and Wellington make for good TV, with their affable style and commitment to their art. In subsequent episodes, we see the two transform a Harley for a former member of the German Special Forces in time for the San Jose Bike Blessing and Motorcycle Show. At the same time, Jasper plans the ultimate princess birthday party for his soon-to-be 3 year-old daughter.

Although we haven't seen the other episodes, we're looking forward to watching the duo care for their 3 year-olds -- while the moms are at work ?- while trying to complete a recreation of the Mona Lisa on a tiny Fiat for an obsessed restaurant owner.

And they hope for their big break when an extreme snowboarder comes to them for a custom art board, which could bring their reputation to a whole different clientele.

Susan Young