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The Bumbling Traveller Wins Travel Book Award

The Bumbling Traveller | ISBN 978-988-18066-4-2

Hong Kong, 7 June 2022 ————– FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:

ARCHITECT’S TRAVEL SKETCH BOOK WINS TRAVEL CATEGORY IN INDIE PUBLISHING AWARDS PROGRAM


The Bumbling Traveller – Sketching the World by Tom Schmidt was declared a winner in the 2022 National Indie Excellence Awards program. The heavily illustrated book, containing Schmidt’s hand-drawn depictions of a variety of destinations around the world, has been awarded the top prize in the Travel category of the awards program.

According to Doug Fogelson, President National Indie Excellence® Awards, “Now in our 16th year, The National Indie Excellence® Awards (NIEA) has evaluated thousands of books across a wide range of diverse genres produced by self-published authors and independent imprints. From this position, we find that our current selection of NIEA award recipients represent the best and brightest talents to be found in contemporary indie publishing and self-published authors today.”

The Bumbling Traveller is filled with over three decades of Schmidt’s highly detailed architectural sketches and analyses of various destinations around the world.   From subjects of architecture and the built environment to local people and handicrafts, readers will experience the age-old tradition of putting pen to paper to remember the world around them, capture moments in time, tell stories and daydream.  With over 250 hand-drawn illustrations in a variety of media, readers will see the genesis of the award-winning Bumbling Traveller™ Adventure Series.  Schmidt hopes that the book will inspire younger generations of travellers, artists, and architecture students to sketch the world around them, and better appreciate the places they visit.

The Bumbling Traveller is the fourth installment in the award-winning Bumbling Traveller™ Adventure Series, a book series that seeks to promote environmental and cultural awareness through entertaining mysteries and adventures.  The book is available in regional and international bookstores, can also be ordered online from the publisher, Kakibubu Media Limited (www.kakibubu.com), and is available on Amazon.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR / ILLUSTRATOR:

ABOUT THE AUTHOR:  Tom Schmidt is an award-winning architect, writer, illustrator, musician, and part-time stand-up comedian.  Born in the United States, following his studies of Architecture and Environmental Design at the University of Colorado, his wanderlust has carried him through various bumbling adventures in over 70 countries around the world, across all seven continents. 

Schmidt is a licensed architect in the US and New Zealand, an Accredited Professional in the LEED® and WELL building certification programs, a founding member of the Hong Kong Chapter of the American Institute of Architects (AIA), and a member of the American Society of Architectural Illustrators (ASAI).  He has resided in Hong Kong since 1997 and is founder of Sepia Design Consultants Limited (www.sepiadesign.com), an architectural consultancy specializing in sustainable hospitality design.

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The Bumbling Traveller Finalist in Indie Book Awards

The Bumbling Traveller | ISBN 978-988-18066-4-2

Hong Kong, 16 May 2022 ————– FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:

ARCHITECT’S TRAVEL SKETCH BOOK DECLARED FINALIST IN INTERNATIONAL AWARDS PROGRAM


The Bumbling Traveller – Sketching the World by Tom Schmidt has been declared a finalist in the 2022 Next Generation Indie Book Awards program. The heavily illustrated book, containing Schmidt’s hand-drawn depictions of a variety of destinations around the world, finished as a finalist in the “Illustrations” category of the awards program.

The Next Generation Indie Book Awards is the largest International awards program for indie authors and independent publishers. In its sixteenth year of operation, the Next Generation Indie Book Awards was established to recognize and honor the most exceptional independently published books in 80+ different categories, for the year, and is presented by Independent Book Publishing Professionals Group in cooperation with Marilyn Allen of Allen Literary Agency (formerly the Allen O’Shea Literary Agency).

The Bumbling Traveller is filled with over three decades of Schmidt’s highly detailed architectural sketches and analyses of various destinations around the world.   From subjects of architecture and the built environment to local people and handicrafts, readers will experience the age-old tradition of putting pen to paper to remember the world around them, capture moments in time, tell stories and daydream.  With over 250 hand-drawn illustrations in a variety of media, readers will see the genesis of the award-winning Bumbling Traveller™ Adventure Series.  Schmidt hopes that the book will inspire younger generations of travellers, artists, and architecture students to sketch the world around them, and better appreciate the places they visit.

The Bumbling Traveller is the fourth installment in the award-winning Bumbling Traveller™ Adventure Series, a book series that seeks to promote environmental and cultural awareness through entertaining mysteries and adventures.  The book is available in regional and international bookstores, can also be ordered online from the publisher, Kakibubu Media Limited (www.kakibubu.com), and is available on Amazon.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR / ILLUSTRATOR:

ABOUT THE AUTHOR:  Tom Schmidt is an award-winning architect, writer, illustrator, musician, and part-time stand-up comedian.  Born in the United States, following his studies of Architecture and Environmental Design at the University of Colorado, his wanderlust has carried him through various bumbling adventures in over 70 countries around the world, across all seven continents. 

Schmidt is a licensed architect in the US and New Zealand, an Accredited Professional in the LEED® and WELL building certification programs, a founding member of the Hong Kong Chapter of the American Institute of Architects (AIA), and a member of the American Society of Architectural Illustrators (ASAI).  He has resided in Hong Kong since 1997 and is founder of Sepia Design Consultants Limited (www.sepiadesign.com), an architectural consultancy specializing in sustainable hospitality design.

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The Bumbling Traveller Snags Silver!

The Bumbling Traveller | ISBN 978-988-18066-4-2

Hong Kong, 16 May 2022 ————– FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:

ARCHITECT’S TRAVEL SKETCH BOOK SCOOPS SILVER MEDAL IN INTERNATIONAL AWARDS PROGRAM


The Bumbling Traveller – Sketching the World by Tom Schmidt has been awarded a silver medal in the 2022 Nautilus Book Awards program. The heavily illustrated book, containing Schmidt’s hand-drawn depictions of a variety of destinations around the world, was awarded a silver medal in the “Multicultural & Indigenous” category of the awards program.

With a 23-year history, The Nautilus Awards represent Better Books for a Better World. The core mission of the Nautilus Awards is to celebrate and honor books that support conscious living & green values, high-level wellness, positive social change & social justice, and spiritual growth.

The Bumbling Traveller is filled with over three decades of Schmidt’s highly detailed architectural sketches and analyses of various destinations around the world.   From subjects of architecture and the built environment to local people and handicrafts, readers will experience the age-old tradition of putting pen to paper to remember the world around them, capture moments in time, tell stories and daydream.  With over 250 hand-drawn illustrations in a variety of media, readers will see the genesis of the award-winning Bumbling Traveller™ Adventure Series.  Schmidt hopes that the book will inspire younger generations of travellers, artists, and architecture students to sketch the world around them, and better appreciate the places they visit.

The Bumbling Traveller is the fourth installment in the award-winning Bumbling Traveller™ Adventure Series, a book series that seeks to promote environmental and cultural awareness through entertaining mysteries and adventures.  The book is available in regional and international bookstores, can also be ordered online from the publisher, Kakibubu Media Limited (www.kakibubu.com), and is available on Amazon.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR / ILLUSTRATOR:

ABOUT THE AUTHOR:  Tom Schmidt is an award-winning architect, writer, illustrator, musician, and part-time stand-up comedian.  Born in the United States, following his studies of Architecture and Environmental Design at the University of Colorado, his wanderlust has carried him through various bumbling adventures in over 70 countries around the world, across all seven continents. 

Schmidt is a licensed architect in the US and New Zealand, an Accredited Professional in the LEED® and WELL building certification programs, a founding member of the Hong Kong Chapter of the American Institute of Architects (AIA), and a member of the American Society of Architectural Illustrators (ASAI).  He has resided in Hong Kong since 1997 and is founder of Sepia Design Consultants Limited (www.sepiadesign.com), an architectural consultancy specializing in sustainable hospitality design.

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The Bumbling Traveller Scoops Gold!

The Bumbling Traveller | ISBN 978-988-18066-4-2

Hong Kong, 11 May 2022 ————– FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:

ARCHITECT’S TRAVEL SKETCH BOOK SCOOPS GOLD MEDAL IN INTERNATIONAL AWARDS PROGRAM


The Bumbling Traveller – Sketching the World by Tom Schmidt has been awarded a prestigious gold medal in the 2022 Independent Publishers Book Awards program. The heavily illustrated book, containing Schmidt’s hand-drawn depictions of a variety of destinations around the world, placed first in “Category 77: Travel – Essay”.

The Independent Publisher Book Awards were conceived in 1996 as a broad-based, unaffiliated awards program open to all members of the independent publishing industry. The program is open to independent authors and publishers worldwide who produce books intended for an English speaking audience.

The Bumbling Traveller is filled with over three decades of Schmidt’s highly detailed architectural sketches and analyses of various destinations around the world.   From subjects of architecture and the built environment to local people and handicrafts, readers will experience the age-old tradition of putting pen to paper to remember the world around them, capture moments in time, tell stories and daydream.  With over 250 hand-drawn illustrations in a variety of media, readers will see the genesis of the award-winning Bumbling Traveller™ Adventure Series.  Schmidt hopes that the book will inspire younger generations of travellers, artists, and architecture students to sketch the world around them, and better appreciate the places they visit.

The Bumbling Traveller is the fourth installment in the award-winning Bumbling Traveller™ Adventure Series, a book series that seeks to promote environmental and cultural awareness through entertaining mysteries and adventures.  The book is available in regional and international bookstores, can also be ordered online from the publisher, Kakibubu Media Limited (www.kakibubu.com), and is available on Amazon.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR / ILLUSTRATOR:

ABOUT THE AUTHOR:  Tom Schmidt is an award-winning architect, writer, illustrator, musician, and part-time stand-up comedian.  Born in the United States, following his studies of Architecture and Environmental Design at the University of Colorado, his wanderlust has carried him through various bumbling adventures in over 70 countries around the world, across all seven continents. 

Schmidt is a licensed architect in the US and New Zealand, an Accredited Professional in the LEED® and WELL building certification programs, a founding member of the Hong Kong Chapter of the American Institute of Architects (AIA), and a member of the American Society of Architectural Illustrators (ASAI).  He has resided in Hong Kong since 1997 and is founder of Sepia Design Consultants Limited (www.sepiadesign.com), an architectural consultancy specializing in sustainable hospitality design.

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Schmidt Moderates Hong Kong Literary Festival

Thomas Schmidt moderates a session at the 2021 Hong Kong International Literary Festival

Hong Kong, 13 November 2021 ————– FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:

SCHMIDT MODERATES AT HONG KONG LITERARY FESTIVAL 2021

Award-winning architect Tom Schmidt, author and illustrator of The Bumbling Traveller – Sketching the World, was invited to moderate two sessions at the 2021 Hong Kong International Literary Festival on Saturday, 13 November 2021 at The Fringe Club’s Jockey Club Studio Theatre in Hong Kong.

In one of the first sessions of the day, Schmidt interviewed Geoff Manaugh and Nicola Twilley, authors of Until Proven Safe: The History and Future of Quarantine. As a hybrid event, the moderated online discussion was simultaneously live streamed in front of an live audience. Schmidt covered topics revolving around the architecture of quarantine centers throughout history and the political impacts of quarantine around the world. The discussion pivoted to aspects of agricultural quarantine, the need for quarantine relative to future space exploration, and the potentially dystopian future of quarantine around the world. A brief question and answer segment concluded the presentation.

Schmidt’s second moderated session, Make Independent Publishing Work For You, featured a panel of three prolific independent publishers. Schmidt was joined by authors Larry Feign, Chris Maden, and Jordan Rivet who shared their personal journeys into independent publishing within a constantly evolving landscape of book publishing. The moderated discussion started with the business and financial aspects of independent publishing, followed by the production and process of bringing a book to market. The latter portion of the well-attended 90-minute panel discussion concentrated on book promotion and the future of independent publishing. The session concluded with a brief question and answer session from live and virtual audience members.

The annual Hong Kong International Literary Festival (HKILF) features established and emerging writers from around the world in a program that includes panel discussions, book talks, literary lunches and dinners, readings, workshops, and performance.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR / ILLUSTRATOR:

ABOUT THE AUTHOR:  Tom Schmidt is an award-winning architect, writer, illustrator, musician, and part-time stand-up comedian.  Born in the United States, following his studies of Architecture and Environmental Design at the University of Colorado, his wanderlust has carried him through various bumbling adventures in over 70 countries around the world, across all seven continents. 

Schmidt is a licensed architect in the US and New Zealand, an Accredited Professional in the LEED® and WELL building certification programs, a founding member of the Hong Kong Chapter of the American Institute of Architects (AIA), and a member of the American Society of Architectural Illustrators (ASAI).  He has resided in Hong Kong since 1997 and is founder of Sepia Design Consultants Limited (www.sepiadesign.com), an architectural consultancy specializing in sustainable hospitality design.

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RGS Book Talk: The Bumbling Traveller

The Bumbling Traveller | ISBN 978-988-18066-4-2

Hong Kong, 18 October 2021 ————– FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:

ILLUSTRATION AND TRAVEL: ARCHITECT ADDRESSES ROYAL GEOGRAPHICAL SOCIETY

Award-winning architect, author and illustrator Tom Schmidt discussed his new book, The Bumbling Traveller – Sketching the World, in an event hosted by the Royal Geographical Society Hong Kong (RGS-HK) at 7:30 pm on Thursday, 28 October 2021. With over thirty RGS-HK members and guests in attendance, the book discussion was held at the Pacific Place Galleries of Bonhams (Hong Kong) Limited.

Schmidt’s discussion of his global travel sketches was prefaced by a brief overview of the role in-situ illustration has played throughout history. This included the documentation of expeditions before the advent of photography, the development of plein air painting, and the continuing evolution of urban sketching. The artist elaborated on his various techniques for creating select sketches, shared humorous anecdotes associated with the creation of some images, and conveyed the emotional connection with a place when sketching a subject on location. Schmidt remarked, “Every sketch is a grand experiment,” relative to pushing the boundaries of media when sketching outdoors under uncertain lighting and weather conditions.

The presentation discussed how travel journals and sketches can be effectively used to document the journey, as well as various destinations and environments. In addition to how sketches can become “visual notes” during a trip, Schmidt explained how travel experiences could also be made into storyboards — a technique that he used in the creation of his award-winning Bumbling Traveller Adventure Series of educational graphic novels. The one-hour presentation concluded with a period of questions and answers.

The Bumbling Traveller is filled with over three decades of Schmidt’s highly detailed architectural sketches and analyses of various destinations around the world.   From subjects of architecture and the built environment to local people and handicrafts, readers will experience the age-old tradition of putting pen to paper to remember the world around them, capture moments in time, tell stories and daydream.  With over 250 hand-drawn illustrations in a variety of media, readers will see the genesis of the award-winning Bumbling Traveller™ Adventure Series.  Schmidt hopes that the book will inspire younger generations of travellers, artists, and architecture students to sketch the world around them, and better appreciate the places they visit.

The Bumbling Traveller is the fourth installment in the award-winning Bumbling Traveller™ Adventure Series, a book series that seeks to promote environmental and cultural awareness through entertaining mysteries and adventures.  The book is available in regional and international bookstores, can also be ordered online from the publisher, Kakibubu Media Limited (www.kakibubu.com), and is available on Amazon.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR / ILLUSTRATOR:

ABOUT THE AUTHOR:  Tom Schmidt is an award-winning architect, writer, illustrator, musician, and part-time stand-up comedian.  Born in the United States, following his studies of Architecture and Environmental Design at the University of Colorado, his wanderlust has carried him through various bumbling adventures in over 70 countries around the world, across all seven continents. 

Schmidt is a licensed architect in the US and New Zealand, an Accredited Professional in the LEED® and WELL building certification programs, a founding member of the Hong Kong Chapter of the American Institute of Architects (AIA), and a member of the American Society of Architectural Illustrators (ASAI).  He has resided in Hong Kong since 1997 and is founder of Sepia Design Consultants Limited (www.sepiadesign.com), an architectural consultancy specializing in sustainable hospitality design.

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Santa Lost in the Dai Pai Dong in HK Cards Now Available

Hong Kong, 29 October 2021 ————– This year’s addition to the beloved “Santa Lost in China” holiday card series is now available!  As the 24th card in an ongoing series following Santa Claus meandering through portions of China, in this memorable year Santa finds himself stumbling through one of Hong Kong’s vibrant outdoor street food alleys, known as “Dai Pai Dongs.”

Each year, architect and Hong Kong resident artist Thomas Schmidt creates a limited edition of bilingual (English / Chinese) hand drawn New Year Cards.  A favorite of expats residing in Hong Kong, these unique cards make the perfect holiday greeting to send to both Chinese and Western friends and family.  These dual-use cards bridge the gap between Christmas / Western New Year and Chinese Lunar New Year, which follows shortly thereafter.

A portion of the proceeds from the sale of these cards have and will continue to be donated to Habitat for Humanity.

ALL CARDS 150 mm x 420 mm; 4-color printing on quality paper stock; accordion folded; sold with matching 110 mm x 157 mm envelopes in sets of 10.

ORDER NOW!

 

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The Bumbling Traveller Hong Kong Book Launch

The Bumbling Traveller – Sketching the World | ISBN 978-988-18066-4-2

Hong Kong, 24 September 2021 ————– FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:

ARCHITECT LAUNCHES BOOK OF SKETCHES FROM HIS WORLD TRAVELS

Award-winning architect Tom Schmidt launched his new book, The Bumbling Traveller, in Hong Kong on Thursday, 23 September 2021 in advance of commemorating World Tourism Day and the book’s international debut on 27 September 2021.

The book launch was held at 7pm at TGIF, located at G/F Wo Fat Building, 539 Queen’s Road West in Shek Tong Tsui. The well attended hybrid in-person and virtual event was live streamed to an international audience around the world. Over 60 book lovers and media representatives attended the in-person event, during which Schmidt provided a brief overview of his book, followed by a live sketching demonstration, and book signing.

Using a photograph for reference, Schmidt spent 20 minutes sketching a 140-year old historic building located at the Hong Kong Observatory, to simulate a scenario of rapid in-situ sketching to capture a subject during deteriorating weather conditions. Schmidt’s black and white demonstration sketch was produced with a 0.6 Faber-Castell Ecco Pigment lightfast permanent marker on sketch paper, generously donated by Hong Kong Faber-Castell. Schmidt narrated his sketching process to the virtual audience while drawing. The completed sketch was given to one winning event attendee by way of a lucky draw.

In addition to a selection of the author’s previous books and other creative products, the event venue featured a montage of projected images from Schmidt’s new book, in addition to large format graphics affixed to the exterior windows to simulate a “sketch view” of Sukhothai, Thailand from the interior of the space.

The Hong Kong launch of ‘The Bumbling Traveller – Sketching the World”

The event was hosted by Ian McGinlay, live streaming was provided by filmmaker Hayley Rofkind, and catering for the event was provided by Kate Lai with additional culinary contributions from Rebecca Lo. Assistance with venue setup and dismantling was provided by Winston Cheng, Andy Niven, Sherie Tsang, and Michael Lai. Schmidt noted, “I was thrilled with the turnout, and truly appreciate everyone who supported our event.”

The Bumbling Traveller is filled with over three decades of Schmidt’s highly detailed architectural sketches and analyses of various destinations around the world.   According to the highly acclaimed Midwest Book Review, Schmidt’s new book is “Inherently fascinating, impressively informative, uniquely inspired and inspiring, ‘The Bumbling Traveller: Sketching the World’ is a unique, extraordinary, and unreservedly recommended addition to personal, professional, community, college, and university library contemporary art instructional reference collections.”

From subjects of architecture and the built environment to local people and handicrafts, readers will experience the age-old tradition of putting pen to paper to remember the world around them, capture moments in time, tell stories and daydream.  With over 250 hand-drawn illustrations in a variety of media, readers will see the genesis of the award-winning Bumbling Traveller™ Adventure Series.  Schmidt hopes that the book will inspire younger generations of travellers, artists, and architecture students to sketch the world around them, and better appreciate the places they visit.

The Bumbling Traveller is the fourth installment in the award-winning Bumbling Traveller™ Adventure Series, a book series that seeks to promote environmental and cultural awareness through entertaining mysteries and adventures.  The book is currently available in regional and international bookstores, and can also be ordered online from the publisher, Kakibubu Media Limited (www.kakibubu.com).

ABOUT THE AUTHOR / ILLUSTRATOR:

ABOUT THE AUTHOR:  Tom Schmidt is an award-winning architect, writer, illustrator, musician, and part-time stand-up comedian.  Born in the United States, following his studies of Architecture and Environmental Design at the University of Colorado, his wanderlust has carried him through various bumbling adventures in over 70 countries around the world, across all seven continents. 

Schmidt is a licensed architect in the US and New Zealand, an Accredited Professional in the LEED® and WELL building certification programs, a founding member of the Hong Kong Chapter of the American Institute of Architects (AIA), and a member of the American Society of Architectural Illustrators (ASAI).  He has resided in Hong Kong since 1997 and is founder of Sepia Design Consultants Limited (www.sepiadesign.com), an architectural consultancy specializing in sustainable hospitality design.

BOOK STATISTICS:

Title:The Bumbling Traveller
Author / Illustrator:Tom Schmidt
ISBN:ISBN 978-988-18066-4-2
Category:Travel / Art / Architecture
Length:156 pages
Retail Price: US$39.95
Binding:11.0″ x 8.5” (28.0 cm x 21.6 cm) softcover
Illustrated:252 Color and B&W illustrations
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BOOK LAUNCH: The Bumbling Traveller

The Bumbling Traveller | ISBN 978-988-18066-4-2

Hong Kong, 3 September 2021 ————– FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:

ARCHITECT LAUNCHES BOOK OF SKETCHES FROM HIS WORLD TRAVELS

Award-winning architect Tom Schmidt will launch his new book, The Bumbling Traveller, in Hong Kong on Thursday, 23 September 2021 in advance of commemorating World Tourism Day on 27 September 2021.

The book launch will be held at 7pm at TGIF, located at G/F Wo Fat Building, 539 Queen’s Road West in Shek Tong Tsui.  Just steps away from Exit C2 of the HKU MTR Station, Schmidt remarked, “We chose this Hong Kong Island venue due to its bright and airy ambiance and proximity to public transport for ease of access.”  Schmidt plans to provide a brief overview of his book, a live sketching demonstration, and a book signing during the free event.  A portion of the event will be live streamed to an international audience across the world.

The Bumbling Traveller is filled with over three decades of Schmidt’s highly detailed architectural sketches and analyses of various destinations around the world.   From subjects of architecture and the built environment to local people and handicrafts, readers will experience the age-old tradition of putting pen to paper to remember the world around them, capture moments in time, tell stories and daydream.  With over 250 hand-drawn illustrations in a variety of media, readers will see the genesis of the award-winning Bumbling Traveller™ Adventure Series.  Schmidt hopes that the book will inspire younger generations of travellers, artists, and architecture students to sketch the world around them, and better appreciate the places they visit.

The Bumbling Traveller is the fourth installment in the award-winning Bumbling Traveller™ Adventure Series, a book series that seeks to promote environmental and cultural awareness through entertaining mysteries and adventures.  The book will be available in regional and international bookstores beginning in September 2021, and can also be ordered online from the publisher, Kakibubu Media Limited (www.kakibubu.com).

NOTE: This will be a private event and pre-registration is required

ABOUT THE AUTHOR / ILLUSTRATOR:

ABOUT THE AUTHOR:  Tom Schmidt is an award-winning architect, writer, illustrator, musician, and part-time stand-up comedian.  Born in the United States, following his studies of Architecture and Environmental Design at the University of Colorado, his wanderlust has carried him through various bumbling adventures in over 70 countries around the world, across all seven continents. 

Schmidt is a licensed architect in the US and New Zealand, an Accredited Professional in the LEED® and WELL building certification programs, a founding member of the Hong Kong Chapter of the American Institute of Architects (AIA), and a member of the American Society of Architectural Illustrators (ASAI).  He has resided in Hong Kong since 1997 and is founder of Sepia Design Consultants Limited (www.sepiadesign.com), an architectural consultancy specializing in sustainable hospitality design.

BOOK STATISTICS:

Title:The Bumbling Traveller
Author / Illustrator:Tom Schmidt
ISBN:ISBN 978-988-18066-4-2
Category:Travel / Art / Architecture
Length:156 pages
Retail Price: US$39.95
Binding:11.0″ x 8.5” (28.0 cm x 21.6 cm) softcover
Illustrated:252 Color and B&W illustrations
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Release of The Bumbling Traveller Book Announced

The Bumbling Traveller | ISBN 978-988-18066-4-2

Hong Kong, 4 June 2021 ————– FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:

ARCHITECT CREATES BOOK OF SKETCHES FROM HIS WORLD TRAVELS

Tourism is the lifeblood of many global communities. As the fight against the global pandemic continues, it is hoped that travellers can once again explore the world around them, with perhaps a new set of eyes and sense of appreciation.

“Travel sketching is one of the best ways to understand a destination, its architecture and culture,” asserts architect Tom Schmidt, author of the new book The Bumbling Traveller.  “In today’s digital era, many tourists quickly simply snap a photo, post it to social media, and move on to their next destination.”

The Bumbling Traveller is filled with over three decades of Schmidt’s highly detailed architectural sketches and analyses of various destinations around the world.   From subjects of architecture and the built environment to local people and handicrafts, readers will experience the age-old tradition of putting pen to paper to remember the world around them, capture moments in time, tell stories and daydream.

With over 250 hand-drawn illustrations in a variety of media, readers will see the genesis of the award-winning Bumbling Traveller™ Adventure Series.  Schmidt hopes that the book will inspire younger generations of travellers, artists, and architecture students to sketch the world around them, and better appreciate the place they are visiting.

The Bumbling Traveller is the fourth installment in the award-winning Bumbling Traveller™ Adventure Series, a book series that seeks to promote environmental and cultural awareness through entertaining mysteries and adventures. 

The Bumbling Traveller will be launched on 27 September 2021 in Hong Kong in commemoration of World Tourism Day. The book will be available in regional and international bookstores beginning in September 2021, and can also be ordered from the publisher, Kakibubu Media Limited.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR / ILLUSTRATOR:

ABOUT THE AUTHOR:  Tom Schmidt is an award-winning architect, writer, illustrator, musician, and part-time stand-up comedian.  Born in the United States, following his studies of Architecture and Environmental Design at the University of Colorado, his wanderlust has carried him through various bumbling adventures in over 70 countries around the world, across all seven continents. 

Schmidt is a licensed architect in the US and New Zealand, an Accredited Professional in the LEED® and WELL building certification programs, a founding member of the Hong Kong Chapter of the American Institute of Architects (AIA), and a member of the American Society of Architectural Illustrators (ASAI).  He has resided in Hong Kong since 1997 and is founder of Sepia Design Consultants Limited (www.sepiadesign.com), an architectural consultancy specializing in sustainable hospitality design.

BOOK STATISTICS:

Title:The Bumbling Traveller
Author / Illustrator:Tom Schmidt
ISBN:ISBN 978-988-18066-4-2
Category:Travel / Art / Architecture
Length:156 pages
Retail Price: US$39.95
Binding:11.0″ x 8.5” (28.0 cm x 21.6 cm) softcover
Illustrated:252 Color and B&W illustrations
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Santa Locked Down in HK Cards Now Available

Hong Kong, 31 October 2020 ————– This year’s addition to the beloved “Santa Lost in China” holiday card series is now available!  As the 23rd card in an ongoing series following Santa Claus meandering through portions of China, in this memorable year Santa finds himself locked down in Hong Kong, wondering why the streets are so empty!

Each year, architect and Hong Kong resident artist Thomas Schmidt creates a limited edition of bilingual (English / Chinese) hand drawn New Year Cards.  A favorite of expats residing in Hong Kong, these unique cards make the perfect holiday greeting to send to both Chinese and Western friends and family.  These dual-use cards bridge the gap between Christmas / Western New Year and Chinese Lunar New Year, which follows shortly thereafter.

A portion of the proceeds from the sale of these cards have and will continue to be donated to Habitat for Humanity.

ALL CARDS 150 mm x 420 mm; 4-color printing on quality paper stock; accordion folded; sold with matching 110 mm x 157 mm envelopes in sets of 10.

ORDER NOW!

 

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Discovery Bay Christmas Markets

Hong Kong, November 24, 2019 ————– Beneath fabulous blue skies, Bumbling Traveller Adventure Series author and illustrator Tom Schmidt attended a book signing at Kakibubu Media Limited’s booth at today’s Discovery Bay Sunday Market, held in Discovery Bay Plaza, Hong Kong.  The fair, organized by Handmade Hong Kong, featured hundreds of locally-produced creative products by small businesses across Hong Kong.  Schmidt signed personalized copies of books for shoppers in addition to explaining his well-regarded series of annual Holiday Cards.

We would like to thank Handmade Kong Kong, and everyone who came out for this event to help make it a great success.

Santa Lost in China Holiday Greeting Card series

ABOUT THE AUTHOR / ILLUSTRATOR: Tom Schmidt is an architect, award-winning writer, illustrator, musician, and part-time stand-up comedian. Born in the United States, following his studies of Architecture and Environmental Design at the University of Colorado, his wanderlust has carried him through various bumbling adventures in over 70 countries around the world and across all seven continents. Schmidt is a licensed US architect, a LEED® Accredited Professional, a founding member of the Hong Kong Chapter of the American Institute of Architects (AIA), and a member of the American Society of Architectural Illustrators (ASAI). He has resided in Hong Kong since 1997, and is founder of Sepia Design Consultants Limited, an architectural consultancy specializing in sustainable hospitality design. Schmidt received a 2010 AIA Hong Kong Citation for the Bumbling Traveller™ Adventure Series in “recognition of significant achievement in promoting the values of cultural heritage, eco-tourism and vernacular architecture in the Chapter’s region.”

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Santa Lost in The Crowd Cards Now Available

Hong Kong, 29 October 2019 ————– This year’s addition to the beloved “Santa Lost in China” holiday card series is now available!  As the 22nd card in an ongoing series following Santa Claus meandering through portions of China, this year Santa finds himself swirling in the crowds of chaotic Hong Kong!

Each year, architect and Hong Kong resident artist Thomas Schmidt creates a limited edition of bilingual (English / Chinese) hand drawn New Year Cards.  A favorite of expats residing in Hong Kong, these unique cards make the perfect holiday greeting to send to both Chinese and Western friends and family.  These dual-use cards bridge the gap between Christmas / Western New Year and Chinese Lunar New Year, which follows shortly thereafter.

A portion of the proceeds from the sale of these cards have and will continue to be donated to Habitat for Humanity.

ALL CARDS 150 mm x 420 mm; 4-color printing on quality paper stock; accordion folded; sold with matching 110 mm x 157 mm envelopes in sets of 10.

ORDER NOW!

 

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Santa Lost in The Bamboo Forest Cards Now Available

Santa Lost in The Bamboo Forest

Hong Kong, 12 November 2018 ————– This year’s addition to the beloved “Santa Lost in China” holiday card series is now available!  As the 21st card in an ongoing series following Santa Claus meandering through portions of China, this year Santa finds himself treading carefully through the bamboo forests of China’s Sichuan Province.

Each year, architect and Hong Kong resident artist Thomas Schmidt creates a limited edition of bilingual (English / Chinese) hand drawn New Year Cards.  A favorite of expats residing in Hong Kong, these unique cards make the perfect holiday greeting to send to both Chinese and Western friends and family.  These dual-use cards bridge the gap between Christmas / Western New Year and Chinese Lunar New Year, which follows shortly thereafter.

A portion of the proceeds from the sale of these cards have and will continue to be donated to Habitat for Humanity.

ALL CARDS 150 mm x 420 mm; 4-color printing on quality paper stock; accordian folded; sold with matching 110 mm x 157 mm envelopes in sets of 10.

ORDER NOW!

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Discovery Bay Book Signing

Hong Kong, August 13, 2017 ————–  Despite scorching hot weather, Bumbling Traveller Adventure Series author and illustrator Tom Schmidt attended a book signing at Kakibubu Media Limited’s booth at today’s Discovery Bay Sunday Market, held in Discovery Bay Plaza, Hong Kong.  The fair, organized by Handmade Hong Kong, featured hundreds of locally-produced creative products by small businesses across Hong Kong.  Schmidt signed personalized copies of books for shoppers in addition to explaining his well-regarded annual Santa Lost in China holiday cards.

We would like to thank Handmade Kong Kong, and everyone who came out for this event to help make it a great success.

Santa Lost in China Holiday Greeting Card series

ABOUT THE AUTHOR / ILLUSTRATOR: Tom Schmidt is an architect, award-winning writer, illustrator, musician, and part-time stand-up comedian. Born in the United States, following his studies of Architecture and Environmental Design at the University of Colorado, his wanderlust has carried him through various bumbling adventures in over 70 countries around the world and across all seven continents. Schmidt is a licensed US architect, a LEED® Accredited Professional, a founding member of the Hong Kong Chapter of the American Institute of Architects (AIA), and a member of the American Society of Architectural Illustrators (ASAI). He has resided in Hong Kong since 1997, and is founder of Sepia Design Consultants Limited, an architectural consultancy specializing in sustainable hospitality design. Schmidt received a 2010 AIA Hong Kong Citation for the Bumbling Traveller™ Adventure Series in “recognition of significant achievement in promoting the values of cultural heritage, eco-tourism and vernacular architecture in the Chapter’s region.”

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Discovery Bay Market Fun

DB Sunday Market

Hong Kong, January 8, 2017 ————– Amidst unseasonably good weather, Bumbling Traveller Adventure Series author and illustrator Tom Schmidt attended a book signing at Kakibubu Media Limited’s booth at today’s Discovery Bay Sunday Market, held in Discovery Bay Plaza, Hong Kong.  The fair, organized by Handmade Hong Kong, featured hundreds of locally-produced creative products by small businesses across Hong Kong.  Schmidt signed personalized copies of books for shoppers in addition to explaining his well-regarded annual Santa Lost in China holiday card series.

We would like to thank Handmade Kong Kong, and everyone who came out for this event to help make it a great success.

Santa Lost in China Holiday Greeting Card series

ABOUT THE AUTHOR / ILLUSTRATOR: Tom Schmidt is an architect, award-winning writer, illustrator, musician, and part-time stand-up comedian. Born in the United States, following his studies of Architecture and Environmental Design at the University of Colorado, his wanderlust has carried him through various bumbling adventures in over 70 countries around the world and across all seven continents. Schmidt is a licensed US architect, a LEED® Accredited Professional, a founding member of the Hong Kong Chapter of the American Institute of Architects (AIA), and a member of the American Society of Architectural Illustrators (ASAI). He has resided in Hong Kong since 1997, and is founder of Sepia Design Consultants Limited, an architectural consultancy specializing in sustainable hospitality design. Schmidt received a 2010 AIA Hong Kong Citation for the Bumbling Traveller™ Adventure Series in “recognition of significant achievement in promoting the values of cultural heritage, eco-tourism and vernacular architecture in the Chapter’s region.”

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Schmidt Featured in Royal Brunei Air Inflight Magazine

Hong Kong, September 1, 2015 ————– Bumbling Traveller Adventure Series author and illustrator Tom Schmidt was featured in the September / October 2015 issue of Muhibah, the inflight magazine of Royal Brunei Airlines.  The two-page spread (pp. 64-65) features a candid interview with Schmidt where he discusses feedback from readers of his award-winning travel book series, in addition to his views on leisure travel and a special sneak preview of the widely-anticipated fourth book in the series.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR / ILLUSTRATOR: Tom Schmidt is an architect, award-winning writer, illustrator, musician, and part-time stand-up comedian. Born in the United States, following his studies of Architecture and Environmental Design at the University of Colorado, his wanderlust has carried him through various bumbling adventures in over 70 countries around the world. Schmidt is a licensed US architect, a LEED® Accredited Professional, a founding member of the Hong Kong Chapter of the American Institute of Architects (AIA), and a member of the American Society of Architectural Illustrators (ASAI). He has resided in Hong Kong since 1997, and is founder of Sepia Design Consultants Limited, an architectural consultancy specializing in sustainable hospitality design. Schmidt received a 2010 AIA Hong Kong Citation for the Bumbling Traveller™ Adventure Series in “recognition of significant achievement in promoting the values of cultural heritage, eco-tourism and vernacular architecture in the Chapter’s region.”

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Elsa High School Book Talk

Hong Kong, June 4, 2015 ————– Bumbling Traveller Adventure Series creator Tom Schmidt delivered a book talk to a large group of students at Elsa High School in Shau Kei Wan, Hong Kong.  Schmidt provided students with an overview of his process of documenting his surroundings and how his travel journals and hand-drawn sketches spurred the creation of an award-winning education graphic novel series.  The talk was followed by an extensive question and answer session, from students as young as 12.  The latest book in the series, Bumbling Through Hong Kong, has received two international book awards to date.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR / ILLUSTRATOR: Tom Schmidt is an architect, award-winning writer, illustrator, musician, and part-time stand-up comedian. Born in the United States, following his studies of Architecture and Environmental Design at the University of Colorado, his wanderlust has carried him through various bumbling adventures in over 70 countries around the world, and across all seven continents. Schmidt is a licensed US architect, a LEED® Accredited Professional, a founding member of the Hong Kong Chapter of the American Institute of Architects (AIA), and a member of the American Society of Architectural Illustrators (ASAI). He has resided in Hong Kong since 1997, and is founder of Sepia Design Consultants Limited, an architectural consultancy specializing in sustainable hospitality design. Schmidt received a 2010 AIA Hong Kong Citation for the Bumbling Traveller™ Adventure Series in “recognition of significant achievement in promoting the values of cultural heritage, eco-tourism and vernacular architecture in the Chapter’s region.”

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Travel Journalism and Global Change

Hong Kong, April 27, 2015 ————– Bumbling Traveller Adventure Series creator Tom Schmidt presented a talk entitled “Travel Journalism and Global Change” to the CIE Global Perspective team and journalism students at the College of International Education at Hong Kong Baptist University.  Schmidt elaborated how his contemporaneous travel journals and sketches spurred the creation of an award-winning education graphic novel series.  The latest book in the series, Bumbling Through Hong Kong, has received two international book awards to date.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR / ILLUSTRATOR: Tom Schmidt is an architect, award-winning writer, illustrator, musician, and part-time stand-up comedian. Born in the United States, following his studies of Architecture and Environmental Design at the University of Colorado, his wanderlust has carried him through various bumbling adventures in over 70 countries around the world, and across all seven continents. Schmidt is a licensed US architect, a LEED® Accredited Professional, a founding member of the Hong Kong Chapter of the American Institute of Architects (AIA), and a member of the American Society of Architectural Illustrators (ASAI). He has resided in Hong Kong since 1997, and is founder of Sepia Design Consultants Limited, an architectural consultancy specializing in sustainable hospitality design. Schmidt received a 2010 AIA Hong Kong Citation for the Bumbling Traveller™ Adventure Series in “recognition of significant achievement in promoting the values of cultural heritage, eco-tourism and vernacular architecture in the Chapter’s region.”

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Bumbling Traveller Illustrator has Duel to the Death

Hong Kong, March 12, 2014 ————– Bumbling Traveller Adventure Series creator Tom Schmidt was one of four writers selected to compete against one another at the highly entertaining, yet quirky Literary Death Match.  Held within the nondescript basement XXX Gallery in Hong Kong’s Sai Ying Pun district, Schmidt went to head to head with authors Shannon Young, Renate Leukert, and Peter Humphreys. 

A judging panel composed of columnist Nury Vittachi, artist Shirley Sheung, and comedian Jim Brewsky ultimately declared Shannon Young as the victor at the end of the evening’s festivities.

Created by Adrian Todd Zuniga, Literary Death Match describes itself as a “competitive, humor-centric reading series features a thrilling mix of four famous and emerging authors.”  In the spirit of the event’s circus-like atmosphere, Schmidt performed a seven-minute reading of an excerpt from his award-winning graphic novel, Bumbling Through Borneo, which he enhanced with impromptu vocal sound effects and projected images from the book.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR / ILLUSTRATOR: Tom Schmidt is an architect, award-winning writer, illustrator, musician, and part-time stand-up comedian. Born in the United States, following his studies of Architecture and Environmental Design at the University of Colorado, his wanderlust has carried him through various bumbling adventures in over 70 countries around the world. Schmidt is a licensed US architect, a LEED® Accredited Professional, a founding member of the Hong Kong Chapter of the American Institute of Architects (AIA), and a member of the American Society of Architectural Illustrators (ASAI). He has resided in Hong Kong since 1997, and is founder of Sepia Design Consultants Limited, an architectural consultancy specializing in sustainable hospitality design. Schmidt received a 2010 AIA Hong Kong Citation for the Bumbling Traveller™ Adventure Series in “recognition of significant achievement in promoting the values of cultural heritage, eco-tourism and vernacular architecture in the Chapter’s region.”

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Bumbling Through Hong Kong Awarded Silver Medal

Latest volume of educational graphic novel travel series wins second prize in 2013 Moonbeam Children’s Book Awards

Hong Kong — October 22, 2013 – Bumbling Through Hong Kong, the third volume of the award-winning Bumbling Traveller™ Adventure Series by Tom Schmidt, has been awarded a silver medal in the Young Adult Multicultural category of the 2013 Moonbeam Children’s Book Awards.

Moonbeam Awards Director Jim Barnes announced, “The Moonbeam Awards exist to bring increased recognition to these kinds of exemplary children’s books that inspire and delight children of all ages.” Judging panels of librarians, teachers, students, and book reviewers chose 165 medalists in 48 categories, and winning books came from a diverse group of long-established publishers, small presses, associations, and self-publishers. This year’s contest attracted over 1,200 entries from throughout North America and around the world, and medals were awarded to books representing 35 U.S. states, 5 Canadian provinces, and 7 countries overseas.

Bumbling Through Hong Kong author and illustrator Tom Schmidt noted, “We are absolutely thrilled to have been selected as an award winner in such a well-respected international book awards program, and are hopeful that the Bumbling Traveller Series continues to inspire children to explore and change the world.” In conjunction with the opening of the 4th annual Traverse City Children’s Book Festival, a gala celebration will be held for award-winning medalists in Traverse City, MI, USA on November 9, 2013.

Bumbling Through Hong Kong is an educational graphic novel that follows on the heels of the first two award-winning volumes of the series — Bumbling Through Borneo and Bumbling Through Sumatra – which seeks to promote environmental and cultural awareness through entertaining mysteries and adventures. The Bumbling Traveller™ Adventure Series is published by Kakibubu Media Limited and is distributed throughout Asia by Far East Media Limited and MPH Distributors Sdn Bhd.

In addition to this award, the book also recently scooped a bronze medal in the 2013 Independent Publisher’s Book Awards Program, shortly after its debut in Hong Kong on April 18, 2013 and subsequent launch in Singapore on May 26, 2013 in conjunction with the Asian Festival of Children’s Content (AFCC).

[download id=”26″]

ABOUT THE AUTHOR / ILLUSTRATOR: Tom Schmidt is an architect, award-winning writer, illustrator, musician, and part-time stand-up comedian. Born in the United States, following his studies of Architecture and Environmental Design at the University of Colorado, his wanderlust has carried him through various bumbling adventures in over 70 countries around the world. Schmidt is a licensed US architect, a LEED® Accredited Professional, a founding member of the Hong Kong Chapter of the American Institute of Architects (AIA), and a member of the American Society of Architectural Illustrators (ASAI). He has resided in Hong Kong since 1997, and is founder of Sepia Design Consultants Limited, an architectural consultancy specializing in sustainable hospitality design. Schmidt received a 2010 AIA Hong Kong Citation for the Bumbling Traveller™ Adventure Series in “recognition of significant achievement in promoting the values of cultural heritage, eco-tourism and vernacular architecture in the Chapter’s region.”

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Architectural Illustrator Discusses Bumbling Traveller Series at ASAI Industry Conference

San Francisco, October 3, 2013 ————– Bumbling Traveller Adventure Series creator Tom Schmidt presented his award-winning travel book series during the Architectural Illustration Fair at the 28th Annual American Society of Architectural Illustrators (ASAI) Conference in San Francisco, CA.  Held at the offices of the American Institute of Architects San Francisco Chapter, the half-day illustration fair featured ASAI members’ work to architects, clients and students from throughout the Bay Area.  Schmidt’s presentation discussed the origin and process behind the Bumbling Traveller Adventure Series, and was followed by a book signing.  The latest book in the series, Bumbling Through Hong Kong, was awarded a bronze medal in the 2013 Independent Publisher’s Book Awards.

As the premiere international professional non-profit society for architectural illustrators throughout the world, the American Society of Architectural Illustrators (ASAI) was founded in 1986, and is dedicated to the advancement and recognition of the art, science and profession of architectural illustration.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR / ILLUSTRATOR: Tom Schmidt is an architect, award-winning writer, illustrator, musician, and part-time stand-up comedian. Born in the United States, following his studies of Architecture and Environmental Design at the University of Colorado, his wanderlust has carried him through various bumbling adventures in over 70 countries around the world. Schmidt is a licensed US architect, a LEED® Accredited Professional, a founding member of the Hong Kong Chapter of the American Institute of Architects (AIA), and a member of the American Society of Architectural Illustrators (ASAI). He has resided in Hong Kong since 1997, and is founder of Sepia Design Consultants Limited, an architectural consultancy specializing in sustainable hospitality design. Schmidt received a 2010 AIA Hong Kong Citation for the Bumbling Traveller™ Adventure Series in “recognition of significant achievement in promoting the values of cultural heritage, eco-tourism and vernacular architecture in the Chapter’s region.”

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Schmidt Shares the Bumbling Traveller Story at TEDx

TEDx Victoria Harbour

Hong Kong, 12 May 2013 ————– Bumbling Traveller Adventure Series creator Tom Schmidt was featured as a key speaker at TEDx Victoria Harbour yesterday at the historic Sunbeam Theatre in North Point.  Created in the spirit of TED Talks mission, “ideas worth spreading,” the independently organized TEDx Victoria Harbour featured individuals sharing ideas to help shape the future of travel and tourism.  

As one of 11 speakers addressing a sold-out crowd, Schmidt’s talk entitled, “Travel Perspectives & Travel Perspectives,” revolved around his personal perspectives on backpacking during which he presented his visual notes and in-situ “perspective” sketches of the built environment which ultimately culminated in the creation of the award-winning Bumbling Traveller Adventure Series.  Schmidt’s most recent release, Bumbling Through Hong Kong was recently awarded a bronze medal in the 2013 Independent Publisher Book Awards.

Other speakers at TEDx Victoria Harbour included world traveler Andrea Oschetti, eco-entrepreneur Bobsy Gaia, world chef Chris Hora, and filmmaker Dean Head.  A stunning and emotive violin performance by Erica Ye Byeol Lee punctuated additional talks by hotel designer Jim Spear, writer Nury Vittachi, photographer Simon Wan, tourism promoter Tony Verb and Instagram-fan Tyson Wheatley.

Bumbling Through Hong Kong

Thomas Schmidt is an architect offering creative design solutions for the hospitality industry, as well as a writer, illustrator, musician, and stand-up comedian. His wanderlust has carried him through various bumbling adventures in over 70 countries around the world, where sketches of his travel experiences culminated in an award-winning travel book series that seeks to promote environmental and cultural awareness through entertaining mysteries and adventures. He is a licensed US architect, a LEED® Accredited Professional, a founding member of the Hong Kong Chapter of the American Institute of Architects (AIA), and a member of the American Society of Architectural Illustrators (ASAI). Born in the U.S., Tom has resided in Hong Kong since 1997 and is the founder of Sepia Design Consultants Limited, an architectural consultancy specializing in sustainable hospitality design.

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CLICK HERE TO WATCH THOMAS SCHMIDT SPEAK AT TEDx VICTORIA HARBOUR

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Bumbling Through Hong Kong Scoops Bronze Medal

Third volume of educational graphic novel travel series wins third prize in 2013 Independent Publisher Book Awards

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Hong Kong, 8 May 2013 ————– Bumbling Through Hong Kong, volume three of the award-winning Bumbling Traveller™ Adventure Series by Tom Schmidt, has been selected as a bronze medal winner in the Graphic Novel / Drawn Book category of the 17th Annual 2013 Independent Publisher (IPPY) Book Awards.

Billed as the largest independent book awards program in the world, IPPY Awards Director Jim Barnes announced today that the 2013 Independent Publisher Book Awards garnered over 5,200 total book entries from over 2,500 independent authors, publishers and university presses across the world.  Of the thousands of entries spanning 77 various categories, only 382 winning books were awarded with medals.

Bumbling Through Hong Kong author and illustrator Tom Schmidt noted, “We are absolutely thrilled to have been selected as an award winner in such a competitive and international book awards program.” Coinciding with the opening of BookExpo America in New York City, a gala awards ceremony will be held at Providence NYC at 6:00 pm on May 29, 2013 for award-winning medalists.  The IPPY Awards, launched in 1996, are designed to bring increased recognition to the deserving but often unsung titles published by independent authors and publishers.

Bumbling Through Hong Kong is an educational graphic novel that follows on the heels of the first two award-winning volumes of the series — 

Bumbling Through Borneo

and 

Bumbling Through Sumatra

— which seeks to promote environmental and cultural awareness through entertaining mysteries and adventures.  The Bumbling Traveller™ Adventure Series is published by Kakibubu Media Limited and is distributed throughout Asia by Far East Media Limited and MPH Distributors Sdn Bhd.

The book was launched in Hong Kong on April 18, 2013 and is scheduled to be launched in Singapore on May 26, 2013 in conjunction with the upcoming Asian Festival of Children’s Content (AFCC).

[download id=”23″]

ABOUT THE AUTHOR:  Tom Schmidt is an architect, award-winning writer, illustrator, musician, and part-time stand-up comedian.  Born in the United States, following his studies of Architecture and Environmental Design at the University of Colorado, his wanderlust has carried him through various bumbling adventures in over 70 countries around the world.  Schmidt is a licensed US architect, a LEED® Accredited Professional, a founding member of the Hong Kong Chapter of the American Institute of Architects (AIA), and a member of the American Society of Architectural Illustrators (ASAI).  He has resided in Hong Kong since 1997, and is founder of Sepia Design Consultants Limited, an architectural consultancy specializing in sustainable hospitality design.  Schmidt received a 2010 AIA Hong Kong Citation for the Bumbling Traveller Adventure Series in “recognition of significant achievement in promoting the values of cultural heritage, eco-tourism and vernacular architecture in the Chapter’s region.”

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Architect Launches Hong Kong Travelogue

Award-winning graphic novel travel series educates and entertains both children and adults

Bumbling Through Hong Kong by Tom Schmidt (ISBN 978-988-18066-7-3)
Bumbling Through Hong Kong by Tom Schmidt (ISBN 978-988-18066-7-3)

Hong Kong, 19 April 2013 ————– Architect, entertainer and author Tom Schmidt launched Volume Three of the award-winning Bumbling Traveller™ Adventure Series last night at Bookazine located in Landmark Prince’s in the heart of Hong Kong’s Central business district.  With over 100 people in attendance, the Hong Kong launch of the book included book signings by the author in addition to lucky draw giveaways.  Guests from various creative, hospitality, finance and travel industries were in attendance, in addition to various media representatives.

Entitled Bumbling Through Hong Kong, this educational graphic novel follows on the heels of the award-winning first two volumes, Bumbling Through Borneo and Bumbling Through Sumatra, in a book series that seeks to promote environmental and cultural awareness through entertaining mysteries and adventures.

Book author and illustrator Schmidt contends, “Hong Kong  is one of the most important and fascinating places on the planet right now.  In today’s era of population growth, environmental contamination, and the loss of marine and terrestrial habitats, the erosion of the quality of life in the world’s urban areas is a very serious issue — and Hong Kong is a case in point.”

Bumbling Through Hong Kong is an educational yet comical adventure through the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region, and its many manmade and natural environments.  The reader is taken on an entertaining journey of discovery by following the misadventures of a fictitious cast of bumbling characters as they stumble across the cultural traditions, natural assets and historic relics of Hong Kong — including the numerous environmental and social challenges faced by one of the most densely inhabited places on the planet.  With over 190 beautifully hand-drawn illustrations, the book’s day-by-day account of the bumbling travelers’ journey through Hong Kong seeks to instill the reader with an environmental and cultural awareness of the territory’s rapidly changing situation.  Schmidt contends that the unique graphic format of the book series appeals to both young adults, already accustomed to comic book formats, as well as more mature readers in helping to create environmental awareness.

Hong Kong’s Association for Geoconservation notes that the book is capable of, “presenting Hong Kong in an interesting and casual way that not many travel books can compare.  We are impressed and thank the author for introducing the normally ignored world of geological heritage of Hong Kong.”  Greenpeace HK adds that, “Hong Kong has amazed the world through its rapid global interaction, efficiency and cosmopolitan environment.  However, behind such speed and convenience, Hong Kong’s alarming per capita emissions rank second globally, if emissions from imported goods and their transportation are included.  Bumbling Through Hong Kong does not provided tips of where to shop or dine out, but exposes the true cost of being a metropolis and the vivid urban pollution that residents and tourists face on a daily basis.  A good snapshot of another face of Hong Kong!”

The Bumbling Traveller™ Adventure Series is published by Kakibubu Media Limited and is distributed throughout Asia by Far East Media Limited Distributors and MPH Distributors Sdn Bhd.  The series is also available for international purchase through Amazon.com.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR: Tom Schmidt is an architect, award-winning writer, illustrator, musician, and part-time stand-up comedian.  Born in the United States, following his studies of Architecture and Environmental Design at the University of Colorado, his wanderlust has carried him through various bumbling adventures in over 70 countries around the world, while based in the Asia-Pacific region.  Schmidt is a licensed US architect, a LEED® Accredited Professional, a founding member of the Hong Kong Chapter of the American Institute of Architects (AIA), and a member of the American Society of Architectural Illustrators (ASAI).  He has resided in Hong Kong since 1997, and is founder of Sepia Design Consultants Limited, an architectural consultancy specializing in sustainable hospitality design.

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Bumbling Traveller Book Creator to Speak at TEDx Victoria Harbour

Thomas Schmidt
Thomas Schmidt

Hong Kong, 5 April 2013 ————– Thomas Schmidt, creator of the award-winning Bumbling Traveller Adventure Series has been selected to speak at the upcoming TEDx Victoria Harbour event on Saturday, 11 May 2013 at the historic Sunbeam Theatre in North Point.  Created in the spirit of TED’s mission, “ideas worth spreading,” TEDx Victoria Harbour is designed to give the Hong Kong community the opportunity to stimulate dialogue through TED-like experiences at the local level.  TEDx Victoria Harbour is an independently organized TED event, organized by individuals passionate about sharing ideas to help shape the future of travel and tourism.  This year, the theme is E-motion:  the how and why we travel, and how it will evolve in the future.  In true TEDx fashion, talks will be recorded and shared on the TEDTalks video site to be viewed by a global audience of millions.  This full day conference will feature 11 multi-disciplinary speakers who will focus on travel and tourism.

Thomas Schmidt will present architectural sketches and travel journals in a session entitled “Travel Perspectives & Travel Perspectives,” which will revolve around armchair travel and travelling vicariously through books.  Schmidt will be presenting his “perspectives” on travel, visual notes, as well as in-situ architectural “perspectives” from his many travels.

His visual documentation of the travel experience has resulted in the creation of the award-winning Bumbling Traveller Adventure Series.

Thomas Schmidt is an architect offering creative design solutions for the hospitality industry, as well as a writer, illustrator, musician, and stand-up comedian. His wanderlust has carried him through various bumbling adventures in over 70 countries around the world, where sketches of his travel experiences culminated in an award-winning travel book series that seeks to promote environmental and cultural awareness through entertaining mysteries and adventures. He is a licensed US architect, a LEED® Accredited Professional, a founding member of the Hong Kong Chapter of the American Institute of Architects (AIA), and a member of the American Society of Architectural Illustrators (ASAI). Born in the U.S., Tom has resided in Hong Kong since 1997 and is the founder of Sepia Design Consultants Limited, an architectural consultancy specializing in sustainable hospitality design. 

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Bumbling Through Hong Kong Launch Announced

Bumbling Through Hong Kong by Tom Schmidt (ISBN 978-988-18066-7-3)
Bumbling Through Hong Kong by Tom Schmidt (ISBN 978-988-18066-7-3)

Hong Kong – March 9, 2013:   At the end of each day, an estimated nine Hong Kong residents may have suffered premature deaths due to Hong Kong’s worsening air pollution, and another estimated 8,000 tons of discarded food waste will have found its way into the territory’s landfills.

“Hong Kong is one of the most important and fascinating places on the planet right now,” asserts architect and LEED® AP Tom Schmidt, author and illustrator of the new book Bumbling Through Hong Kong.  “In today’s era of population growth, wasteful consumption, environmental contamination and loss of marine and terrestrial habitats, the worsening quality of life in the world’s urban areas is a very serious issue – and Hong Kong is a case in point.”

Bumbling Through Hong Kong is an educational yet comical adventure through the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region, and its many manmade and natural environments.  The reader is taken on an entertaining journey of discovery by following the misadventures of a fictitious cast of bumbling characters as they stumble across the cultural traditions, natural assets and historic relics of Hong Kong; including the numerous environmental and social challenges faced by one of the most densely inhabited places on the planet.  With over 190 beautifully hand-drawn black and white illustrations, the book’s day-by-day account of the bumbling backpackers’ journey through Hong Kong seeks to instill the reader with an environmental and cultural awareness of the territory’s rapidly changing situation and an appreciation of its natural and cultural assets.  Schmidt contends that the unique graphic format of the book series appeals to both young adults, who are already accustomed to comic book formats, as well as more mature audiences in helping to create environmental awareness.  Greenpeace HK notes, “Bumbling Through Hong Kong does not provide tips of where to shop or dine out, but exposes the true cost of being a metropolis and the vivid urban pollution that residents and tourists face on a daily basis.  A good snapshot of another face of Hong Kong!”  

Bumbling Through Hong Kong is the third volume in the award-winning Bumbling Traveller™ Adventure Series, a book series that seeks to promote environmental and cultural awareness through entertaining mysteries and adventures.  Bumbling Through Hong Kong is scheduled to be launched on 18 April 2013 in Hong Kong at the Prince’s Building branch of Bookazine; the book will be available in regional bookstores beginning in May 2013, and can also be ordered from the publisher, Kakibubu Media Limited (www.kakibubu.com).

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ABOUT THE AUTHOR:  Tom Schmidt is an award-winning architect, writer, illustrator, musician, and part-time stand-up comedian.  Born in the United States, following his studies of Architecture and Environmental Design at the University of Colorado, his wanderlust has carried him through various bumbling adventures in over 70 countries around the world, while based in the Asia-Pacific region.  Schmidt is a licensed US architect, a LEED® Accredited Professional, a founding member of the Hong Kong Chapter of the American Institute of Architects (AIA), and a member of the American Society of Architectural Illustrators (ASAI).  He has resided in Hong Kong since 1997, and is founder of Sepia Design Consultants Limited, an architectural consultancy specializing in sustainable hospitality design.

BOOK STATISTICS:

Title:Bumbling Through Hong Kong
Author:Tom Schmidt
ISBN:ISBN 978-988-18066-7-3
Category:Travel / Environment / Humor
Length:144 pages
Retail Price:  US$12.95
Binding:6.14” x 9.21” (15.6 cm x 23.4 cm) softcover
Illustrated:193 B&W illustrations
Additions:Maps, Travel Checklists, Internet Resources
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Bumbling Through Hong Kong Release Announced

Bumbling Through Hong Kong by Tom Schmidt (ISBN 978-988-18066-7-3)
Bumbling Through Hong Kong by Tom Schmidt (ISBN 978-988-18066-7-3)

ARCHITECT BUMBLES THROUGH HONG KONG 15 February 2013:   By the end of the day during which you read this media release, an estimated nine Hong Kong residents will have suffered premature deaths due to Hong Kong’s worsening air pollution. “Hong Kong is one of the most important and fascinating places on the planet right now,” asserts architect and LEED® AP Tom Schmidt, author of the new book Bumbling Through Hong Kong.  “In today’s era of population growth, environmental contamination, and loss of marine and terrestrial habitats, the erosion of quality of life in the world’s urban areas is a very serious issue – and Hong Kong is a case in point.” Bumbling Through Hong Kong is an educational yet comical adventure through the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region, and its many manmade and natural environments.  The reader is taken on an entertaining journey of discovery by following the misadventures of a fictitious cast of bumbling characters as they stumble across the cultural traditions, natural assets and historic relics of Hong Kong – including the numerous environmental and social challenges faced by one of the most densely inhabited places on the planet.  With over 190 beautifully hand-drawn illustrations, the book’s day-by-day account of the bumbling travelers’ journey through Hong Kong seeks to instill the reader with an environmental and cultural awareness of the territory’s rapidly changing situation.  Schmidt contends that the unique graphic format of the book series appeals to both young adults, already accustomed to comic book formats, as well as more mature audiences in helping to create environmental awareness. Bumbling Through Hong Kong is the third volume in the award-winning Bumbling Traveller™ Adventure Series, a book series that seeks to promote environmental and cultural awareness through entertaining mysteries and adventures.  Bumbling Through Hong Kong will be launched in May 2013 in Hong Kong; the book will be available in regional bookstores beginning in May 2013, and can also be ordered from the publisher, Kakibubu Media Limited (www.kakibubu.com).

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ABOUT THE AUTHOR:  Tom Schmidt is an architect, award-winning writer, illustrator, musician, and part-time stand-up comedian.  Born in the United States, following his studies of Architecture and Environmental Design at the University of Colorado, his wanderlust has carried him through various bumbling adventures in over 70 countries around the world, while based in the Asia-Pacific region.  Schmidt is a licensed US architect, a LEED® Accredited Professional, a founding member of the Hong Kong Chapter of the American Institute of Architects (AIA), and a member of the American Society of Architectural Illustrators (ASAI).  He has resided in Hong Kong since 1997, and is founder of Sepia Design Consultants Limited, an architectural consultancy specializing in sustainable hospitality design.  

ARCHITECT BUMBLES THROUGH HONG KONG 15 February 2013:   By the end of the day during which you read this media release, an estimated nine Hong Kong residents will have suffered premature deaths due to Hong Kong’s worsening air pollution. “Hong Kong is one of the most important and fascinating places on the planet right now,” asserts architect and LEED® AP Tom Schmidt, author of the new book Bumbling Through Hong Kong.  “In today’s era of population growth, environmental contamination, and loss of marine and terrestrial habitats, the erosion of quality of life in the world’s urban areas is a very serious issue – and Hong Kong is a case in point.” Bumbling Through Hong Kong is an educational yet comical adventure through the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region, and its many manmade and natural environments.  The reader is taken on an entertaining journey of discovery by following the misadventures of a fictitious cast of bumbling characters as they stumble across the cultural traditions, natural assets and historic relics of Hong Kong – including the numerous environmental and social challenges faced by one of the most densely inhabited places on the planet.  With over 190 beautifully hand-drawn illustrations, the book’s day-by-day account of the bumbling travelers’ journey through Hong Kong seeks to instill the reader with an environmental and cultural awareness of the territory’s rapidly changing situation.  Schmidt contends that the unique graphic format of the book series appeals to both young adults, already accustomed to comic book formats, as well as more mature audiences in helping to create environmental awareness. Bumbling Through Hong Kong is the third volume in the award-winning Bumbling Traveller™ Adventure Series, a book series that seeks to promote environmental and cultural awareness through entertaining mysteries and adventures.  Bumbling Through Hong Kong will be launched in May 2013 in Hong Kong; the book will be available in regional bookstores beginning in May 2013, and can also be ordered from the publisher, Kakibubu Media Limited (www.kakibubu.com).

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ABOUT THE AUTHOR:  Tom Schmidt is an architect, award-winning writer, illustrator, musician, and part-time stand-up comedian.  Born in the United States, following his studies of Architecture and Environmental Design at the University of Colorado, his wanderlust has carried him through various bumbling adventures in over 70 countries around the world, while based in the Asia-Pacific region.  Schmidt is a licensed US architect, a LEED® Accredited Professional, a founding member of the Hong Kong Chapter of the American Institute of Architects (AIA), and a member of the American Society of Architectural Illustrators (ASAI).  He has resided in Hong Kong since 1997, and is founder of Sepia Design Consultants Limited, an architectural consultancy specializing in sustainable hospitality design.  

BOOK STATISTICS:

Title:Bumbling Through Hong Kong
Author:Tom Schmidt
ISBN:ISBN 978-988-18066-7-3
Category:Travel / Environment / Humor
Length:144 pages
Retail Price:  US$12.95
Binding:6.14” x 9.21” (15.6 cm x 23.4 cm) softcover
Illustrated:191 B&W illustrations
Additions:Maps, Travel Checklists, Internet Resources
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Bumbling Through Borneo named one of Ten Best Books on Borneo

Bumbling Through Borneo by Tom Schmidt ISBN 978-988-18066-5-9

Hong Kong,  18 April 2012 ————– Bumbling Through Borneo — the first volume in the award-winning Bumbling Traveller Adventure Series — has been included as one of the Ten Best Books on Borneo in the the 2012 Summer edition of the Borneo Insider’s Guide.  Travel writer Peter Adkins reviewed and compiled a listing of books written about Borneo, and described Tom Schmidt’s award-winning book as “Part light-hearted travelogue, part graphic-novel, part responsible-travel treatise; this idiosyncratic tale of one man’s calling from his day-job in Hong Kong to the longhouses and rainforest of Sarawak, engages all senses in telling its author’s story.  Packed with witty anecdotes, information on how to stage your own ‘bumble’ and unpretentious environmental advice, by the time you get to the last page you will have been persuaded to quit your own job in favour of a Bornean adventure.” 

Published by Kakibubu Media Limited, the Bumbling Traveller Adventure Series seeks to promote environmental and cultural awareness through entertaining mysteries and adventures.  The highly-acclaimed series has won various Independent Publisher and Moonbeam Children’s Book Awards.  Volume 3 of the series is expected to be released in Summer 2012.

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Bumbling Through Borneo one of top 30 graphic novels for Earth Day 2012

Bumbling Through Borneo by Tom Schmidt ISBN 978-988-18066-5-9

Hong Kong,  20 March 2012 ————– Bumbling Through Borneo — the first volume in the award-winning Bumbling Traveller Adventure Series — has been selected as one of the Top 30 Graphic Novels for Earth Day 2012 by Library Journal.  Martha Cornog, a longtime reviewer for Library Journal, reviewed and compiled a listing of 30 international graphic novels that have an underlying environmental message, and notes that “Environmental comics are not new but have multiplied owing to recent catastrophes:  the Indian Ocean earthquake and tsunami in 2004, Hurricane Katrina in 2005, the Deepwater Horizon oil spill in 2009, the Haiti earthquake in 2010, and the Tōhoku earthquake and tsunami last year.”

As one of only 16 graphic novels that made Library Journal’s “Teens and Up” category, Tom Schmidt’s Bumbling Through Borneo follows a wayward architect on an uncertain journey into the heart of Borneo with an international group of backpackers.   Library Journal adds that, “River travel, virgin rainforest, runaway logging trucks, and underground caverns await the group as they learn about Borneo’s natural world and looming environmental problems. This combination of introduction for tourists, lighthearted adventure story, and environmental primer is done in black-and-white art interspersed with text and take-away points.”

Published by Kakibubu Media Limited, the Bumbling Traveller Adventure Series seeks to promote environmental and cultural awareness through entertaining mysteries and adventures.  The highly-acclaimed series has won various Independent Publisher and Moonbeam Children’s Book Awards.  Volume 3 of the series is expected to be released in Summer 2012.

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Bumbling Traveller Adventure Series Appoints New Distributor

Hong Kong, 31 August 2011 ————– Kakibubu Media Limited announced their new distribution partners for the Hong Kong / China market.  The award-winning Bumbling Traveller Adventure Series will be distributed by Far East Media (HK) Limited effective 31 August 2011. 

The author of the acclaimed graphic novel series, Tom Schmidt, noted “We are grateful for our prior relationship with Foreign Press Distributors since the inception of the Bumbling Traveller Series, however with the release of the third book in the series in the Spring of 2012, Far East Media (HK) Limited provides a better fit for our expansion goals and promotional plans.”

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Bumbling Traveller Author attends Children’s Book Conference

Nobel Peace prize winner and children’s book author H.E. Dr. Jose Ramos-Horta

Singapore, 18 May 2011 ————– Bumbling Traveller Adventure Series author and illustrator, Thomas Schmidt, AIA, LEED AP, attended the 2011 Asian Festival for Children’s Content (AFCC) held in Singapore from 26 – 28 May 2011.  Organized by The Arts House and The National Book Development Council of Singapore, the 2011 AFCC attracted hundreds of authors, illustrators, publishers, educators and children’s content developers.  Schmidt noted, “This conference has really opened my eyes to where the whole children’s book industry is headed, and the profound impact reading can have on children’s lives.”

The event culminated with the Singapore Children’s Literature Lecture and Awards Presentation Ceremony, presided over by Nobel Peace prize winner and children’s book author H.E. Dr. Jose Ramos-Horta, President of the Democratic Republic of Timor-Leste.  During a private meeting, Schmidt presented President Ramos-Horta with copies of Bumbling Through Borneo and Bumbling Through Sumatra.  Bumbling Through Borneo was awarded a bronze medal in the 2009 Moonbeam Children’s Book Awards program.

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Travel Book Writer Awarded AIA Citation

Hong Kong, 6 November 2010 ————– — Architect and award-winning author and illustrator Thomas Schmidt, AIA, LEED® AP, has been awarded a 2010 chapter Citation from the American Institute of Architects (AIA) Hong Kong Chapter for the creation of the Bumbling Traveller Adventure Series™.

Schmidt was selected by AIA Hong Kong to receive one of two annual Citations in recognition of his significant achievement in promoting the values of cultural heritage, eco-tourism and vernacular architecture in the Chapter’s Asia-Pacific region through his creation of educational graphic novels that the Chapter Nominating Committee described as, “… richly informed through detailed research and vividly portrayed through exquisitely hand-drawn illustrations.”  As per the Chapter’s bylaws, this recognition is extended to individuals or organizations for their achievement in promoting the value of architecture in society and for fostering public awareness of issues related to the built environment.

Schmidt was presented with the Citation at the joint AIA Hong Kong / C40 Conference dinner on Friday, November 5, 2010 at the historic Helena May in Hong Kong.

Bumbling Through Sumatra, the second volume in the Bumbling Traveller Adventure Series™ and recent recipient of a bronze medal in the 2010 Independent Publisher Book Awards, seeks to promote environmental and cultural awareness through entertaining mysteries and adventures.  Author and illustrator Schmidt noted, “As an architect, I am flattered to have received this prestigious award from my professional peers, and from an international organization that continues to champion the value of traditional vernacular architecture.”

Consisting of more than 76,000 US-licensed architects, emerging professionals and allied partners in design, the US-based American Institute of Architects (AIA) has represented the professional interests of architects and design professionals for over 150 years.  The Bumbling Traveller Adventure Series ™ is published by Kakibubu Media Limited and is distributed throughout Asia by Foreign Press Distributors and MPH Distributors Sdn Bhd.  The series is also available for international purchase through Kakibubu.com, Amazon.com and other online portals.

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Hotel Architect Launches Sumatra Travel Book

Award-winning graphic novel travel series educates and entertains both children and adults

Bumbling Through Sumatra by Tom Schmidt (ISBN 978-988-18066-6-6)

Hong Kong, 20 May 2010 ————– Architect, entertainer and author Tom Schmidt launched Volume Two of the award-winning Bumbling Traveller™ Adventure Series last night at Hong Kong’s historic Fringe Club.  With close to 100 people in attendance, the book launch included book signings by the author in addition to lucky draw giveaways of travel-related prizes donated by ProTrek and Teva, the two sponsors of the event.  Guests from various creative and travel industries were in attendance, as well as various media representatives including the South China Morning Post, Asia Literary Review, and Bloomberg.

Entitled Bumbling Through Sumatra, this educational graphic novel follows on the heels of award-winning Bumbling Through Borneo, the first volume in a book series that seeks to promote environmental and cultural awareness through entertaining mysteries and adventures.

Book author and illustrator Schmidt contends, “Sumatra is one of the most important and fascinating places on the planet right now.  In today’s era of climate change, the destruction of ancient rainforests, loss of marine and terrestrial habitats, and erosion of traditional cultures around the world is a very serious issue – and Sumatra is a case in point.”

Recently selected as a bronze medal winner in the 2010 Independent Publisher Book Awards, Bumbling Through Sumatra is an educational yet comical adventure through the Strait of Malacca, various ports in Malaysia, and across the Indonesian island of Sumatra.  The reader is taken on an entertaining journey of discovery by following the misadventures of a fictitious cast of bumbling characters on a shoestring budget as they stumble across the natural treasures and indigenous cultures of the Indonesian island of Sumatra – including the environmental challenges they currently face.

With over 200 intricately hand-drawn illustrations, UNESCO’s ecologist Robert Lee notes, “It is refreshing to see Schmidt travel the way travel ought to be done — with arms, eyes, and mind wide open.” WWF – Indonesia views Bumbling Through Sumatra as “a very educational and informative book while providing an entertaining way of telling various conservation messages through adventurous stories.”  Legendary American architectural illustrator Frank Costantino agrees with the universal appeal of the book by noting, “For readers of any age and culture, Bumbling Through Sumatra is a uniquely conceived, very entertaining book –– and sheer fun!”

The Bumbling Traveller™ Adventure Series is published by Kakibubu Media Limited and is distributed throughout Asia by Foreign Press Distributors and MPH Distributors Sdn Bhd.  The series is available for international purchase through Amazon.com.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR: Tom Schmidt is an architect, award-winning writer, illustrator, musician, and part-time stand-up comedian.  Born in the United States, following his studies of Architecture and Environmental Design at the University of Colorado, his wanderlust has carried him through various bumbling adventures in over 70 countries around the world, while based in the Asia-Pacific region.  Schmidt is a licensed US architect, a LEED® Accredited Professional, a founding member of the Hong Kong Chapter of the American Institute of Architects (AIA), and a member of the American Society of Architectural Illustrators (ASAI).  He has resided in Hong Kong since 1997, and is founder of Sepia Design Consultants Limited, an architectural consultancy specializing in sustainable hospitality design.

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Bumbling Through Sumatra Scoops Bronze Medal

Second volume of graphic novel travel series wins third prize in 2010 Independent Publisher Book Awards

Bumbling Through Sumatra by Tom Schmidt (ISBN 978-988-18066-6-6)

Hong Kong, 14 May 2010 ————– Bumbling Through Sumatra , volume two of the award-winning Bumbling Traveller™ Adventure Series by Tom Schmidt, has been selected as a bronze medal winner in the Graphic Novel / Drawn Book category of the 14th Annual 2010 Independent Publisher (IPPY) Book Awards.

Billed as the largest independent book awards program in the world, IPPY Awards Director Jim Barnes announced today that the 2010 Independent Publisher Book Awards garnered a total of 3,980 total book entries from over 2,000 independent authors and publishers across the world.  Of the thousands of entries spanning 67 various categories, only 347 winning books were awarded with medals.

Bumbling Through Sumatra author and illustrator Tom Schmidt noted, “We are absolutely thrilled to have been selected as an award winner in such a competitive and international book awards program.” Coinciding with the opening of BookExpo America in New York City, a gala awards ceremony will be held at Providence NYC at 6:00 pm on May 25, 2010 for award-winning medalists.  The IPPY Awards, launched in 1996, are designed to bring increased recognition to the deserving but often unsung titles published by independent authors and publishers.

Bumbling Through Sumatra is an educational graphic novel that follows on the heels of award-winning Bumbling Through Borneo, the first volume in a book series that seeks to promote environmental and cultural awareness through entertaining mysteries and adventures.  The Bumbling Traveller™ Adventure Series is published by Kakibubu Media Limited and is distributed throughout Asia by Foreign Press Distributors and MPH Distributors Sdn Bhd.  The series is available for international purchase through Amazon.com.

The book will be officially launched in Hong Kong on May 19, 2010 at Fringe Club from 7:00 pm – 10:00 pm.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR:  Tom Schmidt is an architect, award-winning writer, illustrator, musician, and part-time stand-up comedian.  Born in the United States, following his studies of Architecture and Environmental Design at the University of Colorado, his wanderlust has carried him through various bumbling adventures in over 70 countries around the world, while based in the Asia-Pacific region.  Schmidt is a licensed US architect, a LEED® Accredited Professional, a founding member of the Hong Kong Chapter of the American Institute of Architects (AIA), and a member of the American Society of Architectural Illustrators (ASAI).  He has resided in Hong Kong since 1997, and is founder of Sepia Design Consultants Limited, an architectural consultancy specializing in sustainable hospitality design.

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Bumbling Through Sumatra to be released

Sumatra COVER
Bumbling Through Sumatra by Tom Schmidt ISBN 978-988-18066-6-6

Hong Kong, 26 February 2010 ————– In the time it takes you to read this media release, an estimated 13 hectares of the world’s forests will be lost, according to a recent estimate by WWF-Malaysia.

“Sumatra is one of the most important and fascinating places on the planet right now,” asserts architect and LEED® AP Tom Schmidt, author of the new book Bumbling Through Sumatra.  “In today’s era of climate change, the destruction of ancient rainforests, loss of marine and terrestrial habitats, and erosion of traditional cultures around the world is a very serious issue – and Sumatra is a case in point.”

Bumbling Through Sumatra is an educational yet comical adventure through the Strait of Malacca, various ports in Malaysia, and across the Indonesian island of Sumatra.  The reader is taken on an entertaining journey of discovery by following the misadventures of a fictitious cast of bumbling characters as they stumble across the natural treasures and indigenous cultures of the Indonesian island of Sumatra – including the environmental challenges they currently face.  With over 200 beautifully hand-drawn illustrations, the book’s day-by-day account of the bumbling travellers’ journey through Malaysia and Indonesia seeks to instill the reader with an environmental and cultural awareness of the region’s rapidly changing situation.

Schmidt contends that the unique graphic format of the book series appeals to both young adults, already accustomed to comic book formats, as well as more mature audiences in helping to create environmental awareness. 

Bumbling Through Sumatra is the second volume in the award-winning Bumbling Traveller™ Adventure Series, a book series that seeks to promote environmental and cultural awareness through entertaining mysteries and adventures.  The first volume in the series, Bumbling Through Borneo, was the recipient of a silver medal in the 2009 IPPY Independent Publishers Book Awards, a bronze medal in the 2009 Moonbeam Children’s Book Awards, numerous positive media reviews, and is now headed into its second printing.

Bumbling Through Sumatra will be launched on May 2010 in Hong Kong; the book will be available in regional bookstores beginning in May 2010, and can also be ordered from the publisher, Kakibubu Media Limited.

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Bumbling Through Borneo Scores Bronze Medal

Bumbling Through Borneo by Tom Schmidt ISBN 978-988-18066-5-9
Bronze_Moonbeam_HR
Bumbling Through Borneo wins Moonbeam bronze medal

Hong Kong, 26 September 2009 ————– Bumbling through Borneo, written and illustrated by Tom Schmidt, was announced as the Bronze Medal award winner in the Comic / Graphic Novel category of the 3rd Annual 2009 Moonbeam Children’s Book Awards. Published by Kakibubu Media Limited, this first volume of the Bumbling Traveller™ Adventure Series took third place in its category in the Moonbeam Children’s Book Awards – a program intended to bring increased recognition to exemplary children’s books and their creators, and to support childhood literacy and life-long reading.  The top three winners of each category were awarded gold, silver, and bronze medals respectively.  The call for entries garnered almost 1000 entries from throughout the English-speaking world.

The Moonbeam Awards ceremony will be held on October 10, 2009 as part of the 9th Annual West Virginia Book Festival in Charleston, WV, USA.  Award-winning author Tom Schmidt expressed his satisfaction by noting “we’re thrilled to have our book well regarded in the Children’s Book market and winning such a prestigious award.”  This award follows on the heels of the book receiving a silver medal in the prestigious 13th Annual 2009 Independent Publishers Book Awards earlier in the year.

With consistently positive reviews, Bumbling Through Borneo is the first volume in the Bumbling Traveller™ Adventure Series, a book series that seeks to promote environmental and cultural awareness through entertaining mysteries and adventures.  Bumbling Through Borneo is available from bookstores globally, online, and can also be ordered from the publisher, Kakibubu Media Limited (www.kakibubu.com).

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Jetopa Wins Two Billboard Song Contest Awards

“Life Goes On” by Jetopa

Hong Kong, 5 September 2009 ————– Hong Kong based Jetopa has been awarded two Honorable Mention awards in the 16th Billboard World Song Contest.  “Twin Angels” and “China Charlie” were two tracks that were ranked within the top 1,500 hit songs in this highly acclaimed annual competition that receives thousands of song entries from across the world.  The two award-winning tracks can be found on Jetopa’s latest EP entitled

Life Goes On

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Bumbling Through Borneo Scores Silver Medal in International Book Awards

Bumbling Through Borneo by Tom Schmidt ISBN 978-988-18066-5-9
ippy_silvermedal
Bumbling Through Borneo wins IPPY silver medal

Hong Kong, 18 May 2009 ————– Bumbling Through Borneo, by Tom Schmidt was announced as the Silver Medal award winner for the Graphic Novel / Drawn Book (Humor) category of the 13th Annual 2009 Independent Publishers Book Awards. With over 4,000 entries from across the world, the first volume of the Bumbling Traveller Adventure Series published by Kakibubu Media Limited, took second place in its category; there were an average of 50 contenders per category.   The top three winners of each category were awarded gold, silver, and bronze medals respectively.  Award winners will be announced and recognized on the first evening of BookExpo America on Friday, 29 May 2009 at the 13th Annual IPPY Awards Ceremony and Reception to be held at Providence located at 311 W. 57th St., New York, NY, USA.  Award-winning author Tom Schmidt expressed his satisfaction by noting “we’re absolutely thrilled to have our book so highly regarded in an international event of this caliber.”

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Bumbling Through Borneo Confirmed as Semi-Finalist at IPPY Book Awards

Bumbling Through Borneo by Tom Schmidt ISBN 978-988-18066-5-9

Hong Kong, 2 May 2009 ————– Kakibubu Media Limited confirmed today that Tom Schmidt’s recent release Bumbling Through Borneo has been confirmed as a Semi-Finalist in the “Graphic Novel/Drawn Book – Humor/Cartoon” category of the prestigious 2009 Independent Publisher Books Awards.  Semi-finalists will be awarded gold, silver, or bronze medals; winners will be announced on 29 May 2009 at the 13th Annual IPPY Awards in New York on the first evening of the 2009  BookExpo America convention.

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Bumbling Through Borneo Debuts in Malaysia

Bumbling Through Borneo by Tom Schmidt ISBN 978-988-18066-5-9

Hong Kong, 17 April 2009 ————– It was announced today that Bumbling Through Borneo, the first volume in the Bumbling Traveller Adventure Series, will be distributed byMPH Distributors Sdn Bhd in the Malaysia and Singapore markets.  MPH Distributors Sdn Bhd (MDM) is the market leader in the book import and distribution as well as magazine distribution industry in Malaysia. 

Author Tom Schmidt commented, “We are thrilled to be working with such a reputable distributor in such key markets for our book.”  Bumbling Through Borneo will be included on MPH’s roster of titles at the upcoming Kuala Lumpur International Book Fairfrom 17 – 26 April 2009, and will be distributed to book retailers across Malaysia and Singapore.

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Bumbling Through Borneo: Hong Kong Book Launch

Bumbling Through Borneo by Tom Schmidt ISBN 978-988-18066-5-9

Hong Kong, 16 April 2009 ————– The first volume of the Bumbling Traveller Adventure Series – Bumbling Through Borneo — was launched last night at Hong Kong’s Fringe Club Gallery.  Over one hundred people were in attendance, including representatives from various media organizations, members of the book trade, and travel industry professionals.

Author Tom Schmidt noted, “This absolutely exceeded my expectations, and I am overwhelmed by the level of support from friends, family, the publishing industry, and the community.”  The event was generously sponsored by ProTrek, Nikko Sports, Teva, and Guinness Beer; sponsor donated gifts were distributed to book launch attendees via lucky draw.

For those who missed this exciting book launch, two very popular promotional videos were screened during the event:

Tom Schmidt Inteview by Rock Legend Nigel Q

Bumbling Through Borneo reviewed on “DD’s Book Review”

Click here for more information and photos

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Jetopa Selected to Perform at South Park Music Tour

desert-flight-mock-up-low-res-200-kb
“Desert Flight” by Jetopa

Hong Kong, 9 April 2009 ————– Hong Kong’s quirkiest band, Jetopa, has been selected to perform at the critically acclaimed SOUTH PARK MUSIC TOUR in Colorado, USA 25 – 28 June 2009.  Located in historic South Park, Colorado, at 14,000 ft above sea level, this “Highest Independent Music Tour in the World” presents over 70 bands on 10 showcase stages over four days to over 5,000 music fans per day.

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Schmidt Promotes New Travel Book on Hong Kong Radio

Bumbling Through Borneo by Tom Schmidt ISBN 978-988-18066-5-9
morning-brew-radio-show-8-april-20092
Author Tom Schmidt promotes Bumbling Through Borneo on RTHK’s “Morning Brew”

Hong Kong, 9 April 2009 ————– Bumbling Through Borneo author Tom Schmidt appeared on Hong Kong’s RTHK3 “Morning Brew” today at 12:10 pm, hosted by Phil Whelan.  Heard by over 250,000 listeners per week, RTHK3 interviewed Schmidt, as he discussed his inspiration behind the creation of the educational illustrated travelogue, as well as the upcoming book launch and future plans for the Bumbling Traveller Adventure Series.

Listen to an archive of this broadcast at RTHK website

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Bumbling Through Borneo Debuts in International Book Fairs

Bumbling Through Borneo by Tom Schmidt ISBN 978-988-18066-5-9

Hong Kong, 3 April 2009 ————– Kakibubu Media Limited announced today that the first volume of the Bumbling Traveller Adventure Series, entitled Bumbling Through Borneo will be represented at four major international book fairs in 2009 through the Jenkins Group Combined Book Exhibit.  

Author Tom Schmidt noted “These shows are the best ways to get the attention of buyers, librarians, distributors, wholesalers, retailers, other publishers, foreign rights agents, and countless other publishing professionals.”

LONDON BOOK FAIR: 20-22 APRIL 2009

BOOK EXPO AMERICA: 29 – 31 MAY 2009

FRANKFURT BOOK FAIR: 14 – 18 OCT 2009

BEIJING BOOK FAIR: 30 OCT – 2 NOV 2009

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Bumbling Traveller Adventure Series Launch Announced

Bumbling Through Borneo by Tom Schmidt ISBN 978-988-18066-5-9

Hong Kong, 1 April 2009 ————– Kakibubu Media Limited announced today the official Hong Kong book launch for Tom Schmidt’s new book Bumbling Through Borneo — the first volume in the much anticipated Bumbling Traveller Adventure Series.

DATE:  Wednesday, 15 April 2009

TIME:  19:00 – 22:00

VENUE:  Fringe Club Gallery, 2 Lower Albert Road

Cash bar; light refreshments provided; lucky draw

The upcoming event will be generously sponsored by various travel and outdoor equipment suppliers including Pro-Trek, Nikko, and Teva.

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Hong Kong Book Distribution

Hong Kong, 5 March 2009 ————– Kakibubu Media Limited announced today that Hong Kong-based Foreign Press Distributors have been awarded the distribution rights in Hong Kong and China for the upcoming Bumbling Traveller Adventure Book Series, written and illustrated by Tom Schmidt.

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Launch of Bumbling Through Borneo Announced

9881806658
Bumbling Through Borneo by Tom Schmidt ISBN 978-988-18066-5-9

Hong Kong, 1 February 2009 ————– In the time it takes you to read this media release, an estimated 13 hectares of the world’s forests will be lost, according to WWF-Malaysia.

“Borneo is one of the most important and fascinating places on the planet right now,” asserts architect Tom Schmidt, author of the new book Bumbling Through Borneo. “In today’s era of climate change, the destruction of ancient rainforests around the world is a very serious issue — and Borneo is a case in point.”

Bumbling Through Borneo, an educational yet comical trek through Borneo’s hinterland, takes the reader on an entertaining journey of discovery by following the misadventures of a fictitious cast of bumbling characters as they stumble across the natural treasures and indigenous cultures of the Malaysian state of Sarawak — including the environmental challenges they currently face.  With over 180 beautifully hand-drawn illustrations, the book’s day-by-day account of the bumbling travellers’ journey through Sarawak seeks to instill the reader with an environmental and cultural awareness of the island’s rapidly changing situation.  WWF-Malaysia calls the book “Interesting!  Recommended reading for backpackers to Borneo.”

Schmidt contends that the unique graphic format of the book appeals to both young adults, already accustomed to comic book formats, as well as more mature audiences in helping to create environmental awareness.

Bumbling Through Borneo is the first volume in the Bumbling Traveller™ Adventure Series, a book series that seeks to promote environmental and cultural awareness through entertaining mysteries and adventures.  Bumbling Through Borneo will be launched in Hong Kong on April 15th, 2009.