"Nothing can be done except little by little."
-- Charles Baudelaire
Monday, April 30, 2012
Progress is being made
Stopping for the night, but progress has been made. Just the mountains, sky and the highlights to finish up tomorrow.
"Nothing can be done except little by little."
-- Charles Baudelaire
"Nothing can be done except little by little."
-- Charles Baudelaire
Look who's open for commissions!
No, not me. I'm currently full. On top of that, I've been having some major wrist problems lately that keep slowing me down.
No, the person I'm talking about is Chris Paulsen, the creator of 'Precocious'. Chrispy's offering quick 8.5x11 grayscale marker and colored pencil pieces throughout the month of May! The goal, to build a commission portfolio for cons.
This may be one of the last chances to get a commission from Chrispy outside of a convention. So if you're interested, now's the time! For more information, please visit his blog or his FA gallery.
"The secret of happiness is not in doing what one likes, but in liking what one does."
-- James Barrie
No, the person I'm talking about is Chris Paulsen, the creator of 'Precocious'. Chrispy's offering quick 8.5x11 grayscale marker and colored pencil pieces throughout the month of May! The goal, to build a commission portfolio for cons. This may be one of the last chances to get a commission from Chrispy outside of a convention. So if you're interested, now's the time! For more information, please visit his blog or his FA gallery.
"The secret of happiness is not in doing what one likes, but in liking what one does."
-- James Barrie
Saturday, April 28, 2012
Inks - 'Arizona Centennial'
Inking done. Wrist shot. Fingers cold and numb.
Coloring tomorrow.
"Keenly aware of their limitations, artists often remain insecure even as their list of successes grows."
-- Eric Maisel
Coloring tomorrow.
"Keenly aware of their limitations, artists often remain insecure even as their list of successes grows."
-- Eric Maisel
Friday, April 27, 2012
RCSI Pub's new wheels!
Hey guys! It's been a busy day, most of it spend in South Weymouth. The sad news is... I no longer have my little Dodge Neon. She was the first almost new car I'd ever owned. But, we've reached the point where she's too small for our con needs. Last Anthrocon, the Neon was packed to capacity and we've three more books coming out this year.
So today, we traded her in for her big sister. And when I say big, I mean big. Here's RCSI Publishing's new vehicle... a 2009 Dodge Journey!
It's nice! There are pockets everywhere, it has a big cargo area, and the radio has a voice command option - tell it the station number and it goes right to it. Neat! The dealership we went to was wonderful. No hard sales tactics or pressure. They even had the car cleaned and the tank filled while the paperwork was being finalized.
The crazy thing is, since the Neon's title was under my name - I bought it before Matt and I married - the paperwork and loan for the new car are under my name as well. I wasn't expecting that.
We now have plenty of room for stock, as well as room to grow, and are ready to roll. Now, if only June would get here. I'm getting anxious for AC!
"In less enlightened times, the best way to impress women was to own a hot car. But women wised up and realized it was better to buy their own hot cars so they wouldn't have to ride around with jerks."
-- Scott Adams
So today, we traded her in for her big sister. And when I say big, I mean big. Here's RCSI Publishing's new vehicle... a 2009 Dodge Journey!
It's nice! There are pockets everywhere, it has a big cargo area, and the radio has a voice command option - tell it the station number and it goes right to it. Neat! The dealership we went to was wonderful. No hard sales tactics or pressure. They even had the car cleaned and the tank filled while the paperwork was being finalized.
The crazy thing is, since the Neon's title was under my name - I bought it before Matt and I married - the paperwork and loan for the new car are under my name as well. I wasn't expecting that.
We now have plenty of room for stock, as well as room to grow, and are ready to roll. Now, if only June would get here. I'm getting anxious for AC!
"In less enlightened times, the best way to impress women was to own a hot car. But women wised up and realized it was better to buy their own hot cars so they wouldn't have to ride around with jerks."
-- Scott Adams
Thursday, April 26, 2012
Clean sketch - 'Arizona Centennial'
Hey guys! The clean sketch of Alan's first commission is complete. Once I have approval, I'll begin inking. (I just noticed the date says February 4 when it should read February 14. Will fix that tomorrow before inking.)
We've had a crazy afternoon and have a busy day planned for tomorrow. More on that later if all goes according to plan. But, the good news is that as of this moment, all the books have been safely shipped off to the printer. Which means, I can now refocus on commissions. I apologize for the delay. I also really appreciate everyone being so wonderful and understanding.
This is what my commission schedule looks like at the moment...
It's still a little full, especially when I factor in the fact that I haven't been able to do any CN:H work in a while. My buffer will run out in October. Eeep! I'll be reevaluating how I handle commissions after this batch, including my prices. I'm afraid the large ones take a very long time and eat a lot of supplies. So, I may need to raise my prices a bit to compensate for that. We'll see. But first, it's time to get this list taken care of and everyone's work out to them.
Back to work tomorrow. Thanks guys!
"No one is laughable who laughs at himself."
-- Seneca (Seneca the Elder)
We've had a crazy afternoon and have a busy day planned for tomorrow. More on that later if all goes according to plan. But, the good news is that as of this moment, all the books have been safely shipped off to the printer. Which means, I can now refocus on commissions. I apologize for the delay. I also really appreciate everyone being so wonderful and understanding.
This is what my commission schedule looks like at the moment...
It's still a little full, especially when I factor in the fact that I haven't been able to do any CN:H work in a while. My buffer will run out in October. Eeep! I'll be reevaluating how I handle commissions after this batch, including my prices. I'm afraid the large ones take a very long time and eat a lot of supplies. So, I may need to raise my prices a bit to compensate for that. We'll see. But first, it's time to get this list taken care of and everyone's work out to them.
Back to work tomorrow. Thanks guys!
"No one is laughable who laughs at himself."
-- Seneca (Seneca the Elder)
Tuesday, April 24, 2012
Sketchbook - The last pages of Sketchbook I
Hey guys. It took a few months, but my first sketchbook since high school is now full.
I did some scratchings on the last few pages this morning before going downstairs and managing to pop something bad in my wrist. It's been locked and giving off sharp pains all day. Luckily I've a chiro appointment tomorrow. Dr. Brian is always able to reset my wrist and get it working again. Unfortunately, this means I've gotten no more drawing done today and probably won't get much done until tomorrow evening. I'm hoping I'll be able to do some more comp sketches for upcoming commissions at least.
So yes, back to the sketchbook. I started this one about mid-October of last year, so it took around six months to fill. Aside from three pages where the ink bled through, every page was used back to front. I'm sure someone will tell me that's the wrong way to do it, but it saves paper and cost. These are just for practice and preliminary work anyway.
Here are the last few pages.
I think I'll keep my Copic sketchbook just for Copics. Which means, I'll pull out a nice, clean sketchbook to maul here soon. Let's see if the next one goes a little quicker.
"I've learned... that just one person saying to me, 'You've made my day!' makes my day."
-- Andy Rooney
I did some scratchings on the last few pages this morning before going downstairs and managing to pop something bad in my wrist. It's been locked and giving off sharp pains all day. Luckily I've a chiro appointment tomorrow. Dr. Brian is always able to reset my wrist and get it working again. Unfortunately, this means I've gotten no more drawing done today and probably won't get much done until tomorrow evening. I'm hoping I'll be able to do some more comp sketches for upcoming commissions at least.
So yes, back to the sketchbook. I started this one about mid-October of last year, so it took around six months to fill. Aside from three pages where the ink bled through, every page was used back to front. I'm sure someone will tell me that's the wrong way to do it, but it saves paper and cost. These are just for practice and preliminary work anyway.
Here are the last few pages.
I think I'll keep my Copic sketchbook just for Copics. Which means, I'll pull out a nice, clean sketchbook to maul here soon. Let's see if the next one goes a little quicker.
"I've learned... that just one person saying to me, 'You've made my day!' makes my day."
-- Andy Rooney
Monday, April 23, 2012
Sketchbook - Horses and comp sketches
Hey guys! The majority of this week will be devoted to Alan's two commissions. These will be heavy on the detail and require a lot of shading. Hopefully my wrist will be cooperative. It's been a little ornery lately.
Here's the basic composition idea for the first commission. I'd like to move the large cactus to the right of the picture as well as pull the "camera" in a bit closer to the characters.
This was the initial idea sketched out last night.
And here are some random horses.
The second commission involves a nature hike. I need a little more information about the characters before I can do too much more. But, I thought I'd sketch out a rough idea of the scenery.
I've been playing with my colored pencils more lately. Just trying to get back into the swing of using them. I'm so rusty, it's a shame.
"Developing a composition is a creative process involving intuition and thinking more than following rules."
-- Alessandra Bitelli
Here's the basic composition idea for the first commission. I'd like to move the large cactus to the right of the picture as well as pull the "camera" in a bit closer to the characters.
This was the initial idea sketched out last night.
And here are some random horses.
The second commission involves a nature hike. I need a little more information about the characters before I can do too much more. But, I thought I'd sketch out a rough idea of the scenery.
I've been playing with my colored pencils more lately. Just trying to get back into the swing of using them. I'm so rusty, it's a shame.
"Developing a composition is a creative process involving intuition and thinking more than following rules."
-- Alessandra Bitelli
The CN:H Prologue is now available for pre-order!
Hey guys! After a busy rush last week to get the files ready in time, the trade paperback of the Prologue is off at the printers. It'll arrive by early June and will be released at Anthrocon.
What's that? You say you want a copy but can't make it to the con? Or you can, but you'd like to reserve your copy ahead of time? That we can do! Pre-orders are now open.
This is the first time the Prologue has been in print since AC of 2007! It's also the first time 'The Streak' has ever seen print!
Pre-orders for Volume II are still open as well. It's a book-a-poloza! I'm so excited! All pre-orders not picked up at Anthrocon will be shipped out mid-June. Due to the economy, we're ordering smaller runs of the CN:H books at a time. To ensure you receive a copy before we run out and need to reorder, reserve yours today!
Thanks guys!
"Characters are more important than jokes."
-- Bill Watterson
What's that? You say you want a copy but can't make it to the con? Or you can, but you'd like to reserve your copy ahead of time? That we can do! Pre-orders are now open.
This is the first time the Prologue has been in print since AC of 2007! It's also the first time 'The Streak' has ever seen print!
'Code Name: Hunter'
Prologue: The Breaking of the Seal
In which a war occurs, magic returns, and a group of nutters gather together and form an agency.
Ever wondered just how RCSI got its start? Here's your answer! Collected within are the first three issues of 'Code Name: Hunter' documenting the story of Roderick, Merrybell, and the founders of RCSI.
Back in print for the first time since 2007!
Contains Issues 0.1 - 0.3, and the interludes 'First Encounter', 'The Streak', and the unfinished 'The Incident'.
116 Pages
Full Color
Perfect bound
$20.00 USD
Pre-orders for Volume II are still open as well. It's a book-a-poloza! I'm so excited! All pre-orders not picked up at Anthrocon will be shipped out mid-June. Due to the economy, we're ordering smaller runs of the CN:H books at a time. To ensure you receive a copy before we run out and need to reorder, reserve yours today!
Thanks guys!
"Characters are more important than jokes."
-- Bill Watterson
Friday, April 20, 2012
CN:H Issue 12 now complete on the site
Morning guys! I reformatted sixty-five Prologue pages out of an estimated hundred and twenty yesterday before my wrist locked up. So, I'll be finishing the book-prep today. I need to get that out to the printer by next week to make an Anthrocon release. Unfortunately, this means I'm even further behind on commission work. I apologize. I forgot about all the upcoming bookwork when I opened commissions this time.
While I'll keep the badges rotating and open, I think once the current full-sized commissions are complete I'll close full-sized slots until Anthrocon itself. I've still a lot of con prep to do as well as helping Chrispy promote his first 'Precocious' book.
Before I get back to work, I wanted to point out that Issue 12 of 'Code Name: Hunter' is now complete on the site. Yep, the last page went live Monday morning. So, if you prefer to read comics in chunks or just want a quick refresher, now's a good time.
Issue 12 is twenty-four pages in length and starts here. Issue 13 begins today.
Enjoy! I'm off to do more book-prep!
"You know what comic books are? They're nice. That's the best word I can think of."
-- Stan Lee
While I'll keep the badges rotating and open, I think once the current full-sized commissions are complete I'll close full-sized slots until Anthrocon itself. I've still a lot of con prep to do as well as helping Chrispy promote his first 'Precocious' book.
Before I get back to work, I wanted to point out that Issue 12 of 'Code Name: Hunter' is now complete on the site. Yep, the last page went live Monday morning. So, if you prefer to read comics in chunks or just want a quick refresher, now's a good time.Issue 12 : Rules to Live By
There are rules one should follow when it comes to the agency collars. There are also rules to follow when dealing with the fey. When a certain fey from Max's past comes looking for him, will these rules be enough?
Issue 12 is twenty-four pages in length and starts here. Issue 13 begins today.
Enjoy! I'm off to do more book-prep!
"You know what comic books are? They're nice. That's the best word I can think of."
-- Stan Lee
Thursday, April 19, 2012
Yesterday was for sickness. Today's for the Prologue.
Morning guys! Yesterday was supposed to be for bookwork, research, and composition sketches. Instead, I spent the day alternating between sleeping and reading. So sick. Still sick today, but I've too much work to do to afford to lose another day. I need to get this book up and ready for reprinting.
Reprinting? Yep. The Prologue to CN:H is going back into print. We've reached a point where the printing cost, while still high, is manageable. Here's the basic cover idea.
It turns out some of the old page files are corrupted while others are missing. No matter, I needed to clean things up a bit anyway. So, I'm rebuilding many of the pages. This involves removing spare lines and bringing the book up to our current standards. I had no idea what I was doing when this went out the first time. Here's one of the pages I need to work on.
So, today will be spent finishing the prep-work. Luckily I've the cintiq back to help out with that. Much better than a trackball mouse.
While looking for missing files, I ran across the first ten pages of "The Incident". This was supposed to be a one-off issue explaining the event leading up to Max being sent off to Brumborg for a bit. Unfortunately, some people's behavior left me feeling uneasy. As a result, I shelved the issue and never finished it. Which is a shame, I really like how the facial expressions turned out on some of the pages.
I'm debating adding the pages done so far to the Prologue trade. The issue won't be finished; I don't have time at the moment and how I draw the characters has changed enough that restarting in the middle would look odd. But it might be a nice bonus if paired with an explanation. Hey, sometimes projects get abandoned. It happens.
Either way, I need to get my day started so I can finish this book up. Having it finished and at the printers will be a relief. I didn't take into account everything else going on when opening commissions this time. I took on a little too much and am a tab bit stressed. Still, I can handle it. Just don't ask me for any favors for a while. At the risk of sounding rude, I'm a little burned out on helping at the moment. Sorry.
Later guys.
Del Boy: "Bloody hell! What have we got ourselves into here?"
Rodney: "Well this is your fault! You just go rushing into things and to hell with the consequences!"
Del Boy: "That's because I've got a high profile!"
Rodney: "Yeah! High profile and low forehead!"
-- Only Fools and Horses
Reprinting? Yep. The Prologue to CN:H is going back into print. We've reached a point where the printing cost, while still high, is manageable. Here's the basic cover idea.
It turns out some of the old page files are corrupted while others are missing. No matter, I needed to clean things up a bit anyway. So, I'm rebuilding many of the pages. This involves removing spare lines and bringing the book up to our current standards. I had no idea what I was doing when this went out the first time. Here's one of the pages I need to work on.
So, today will be spent finishing the prep-work. Luckily I've the cintiq back to help out with that. Much better than a trackball mouse.
While looking for missing files, I ran across the first ten pages of "The Incident". This was supposed to be a one-off issue explaining the event leading up to Max being sent off to Brumborg for a bit. Unfortunately, some people's behavior left me feeling uneasy. As a result, I shelved the issue and never finished it. Which is a shame, I really like how the facial expressions turned out on some of the pages.
I'm debating adding the pages done so far to the Prologue trade. The issue won't be finished; I don't have time at the moment and how I draw the characters has changed enough that restarting in the middle would look odd. But it might be a nice bonus if paired with an explanation. Hey, sometimes projects get abandoned. It happens.
Either way, I need to get my day started so I can finish this book up. Having it finished and at the printers will be a relief. I didn't take into account everything else going on when opening commissions this time. I took on a little too much and am a tab bit stressed. Still, I can handle it. Just don't ask me for any favors for a while. At the risk of sounding rude, I'm a little burned out on helping at the moment. Sorry.
Later guys.
Del Boy: "Bloody hell! What have we got ourselves into here?"
Rodney: "Well this is your fault! You just go rushing into things and to hell with the consequences!"
Del Boy: "That's because I've got a high profile!"
Rodney: "Yeah! High profile and low forehead!"
-- Only Fools and Horses
Tuesday, April 17, 2012
Con badge - Jimmy
Jimmy's badge is now complete.
'Jimmy' | inks, copic markers, white pencil, white gel pen | 4x6 | Commission
I tried getting his typical jean romper and red/white striped shirt to match with the more semi-fantasy outfits the fey wear in CN:H. Hopefully he turned out well.
Other than that, I'm feeling pretty down and unwanted. So, I'm going to go do some lamination and find something to occupy my mind and help me get over this hump. Later.
"Depression is anger slowed down; panic is grief speeded up."
-- Ann-Marie McDonald
'Jimmy' | inks, copic markers, white pencil, white gel pen | 4x6 | Commission
I tried getting his typical jean romper and red/white striped shirt to match with the more semi-fantasy outfits the fey wear in CN:H. Hopefully he turned out well.
Other than that, I'm feeling pretty down and unwanted. So, I'm going to go do some lamination and find something to occupy my mind and help me get over this hump. Later.
"Depression is anger slowed down; panic is grief speeded up."
-- Ann-Marie McDonald
Con badge - Suburban Fox
Morning! Yesterday the clean sketch and inking was done for both Phil and Jimmy's badges. On top of that, the coloring of Phil's badge was completed. Yay! I hope he turned out well.
'Suburban Fox' | inks, copic markers, white pencil, white gel pen | 4x6 | Commission
I'll be finishing up Jimmy's badge today. Then, it's on to research and comp sketches for Alan's first commission. Busy day. Which means, I should get started. Later guys!
"The superior man is distressed by the limitations of his ability; he is not distressed by the fact that men do not recognize the ability that he has."
-- Confucius
'Suburban Fox' | inks, copic markers, white pencil, white gel pen | 4x6 | Commission
I'll be finishing up Jimmy's badge today. Then, it's on to research and comp sketches for Alan's first commission. Busy day. Which means, I should get started. Later guys!
"The superior man is distressed by the limitations of his ability; he is not distressed by the fact that men do not recognize the ability that he has."
-- Confucius
Friday, April 13, 2012
Sketchbook - Badge ideas and horses
I'm nearly through this sketchbook! Only a few pages to go. *dances* I'd like to have a new sketchbook up and running before Anthrocon. I'm not sure why, I just would.
For now here are a few of the recent scratchings. Just some horses as well as pose ideas for the next two badges. I'm moving Jimmy's up a bit because the few before him in the queue are going to take longer than most. Intricate fur patterns and props tend to extend the work time and I'd like to do those three in the same week. I've some complex work ahead of me next week with the first two full-sized commissions. Which reminds me, I need to do some research for those.
I guess I should take it as a complement. Either people really believe in my drawing abilities... or my prices are just cheap. *laughs*
All joking aside, here's the recent sketchbook pages. Please don't take the colors in the pose ideas as the ones I'll be using for the badges themselves. I don't have as many colored pencils as I do markers. These are just me messing around to get a basic idea.
And, on that note, I'm off to figure out the lettering so I can start the clean sketches later this evening. Thanks guys!
"The guy may be totally motivated, connected and inspired, but if he doesn't know how to do it, he's not the guy to take out your appendix."
-- Robert Genn
For now here are a few of the recent scratchings. Just some horses as well as pose ideas for the next two badges. I'm moving Jimmy's up a bit because the few before him in the queue are going to take longer than most. Intricate fur patterns and props tend to extend the work time and I'd like to do those three in the same week. I've some complex work ahead of me next week with the first two full-sized commissions. Which reminds me, I need to do some research for those.
I guess I should take it as a complement. Either people really believe in my drawing abilities... or my prices are just cheap. *laughs*
All joking aside, here's the recent sketchbook pages. Please don't take the colors in the pose ideas as the ones I'll be using for the badges themselves. I don't have as many colored pencils as I do markers. These are just me messing around to get a basic idea.
And, on that note, I'm off to figure out the lettering so I can start the clean sketches later this evening. Thanks guys!
"The guy may be totally motivated, connected and inspired, but if he doesn't know how to do it, he's not the guy to take out your appendix."
-- Robert Genn
CN:H Volume II available for pre-order
Hey guys. The second trade paperback of 'Code Name: Hunter' is off at the printers and should be arriving by early June. We'll be debuting the book at Anthrocon.
What's that? You say you want a copy but can't make it to the con? Or you can, but you'd like to reserve your copy ahead of time? That we can do! Pre-orders for Volume II are now open.
Looking for something a little more with your pre-order? I'm currently offering con badge commission/book combos.
All pre-orders not picked up at Anthrocon will be shipped out mid-June. Due to the economy, we're ordering smaller runs of the CN:H books at a time. To ensure you receive a copy before we run out and need to reorder, reserve yours today!
Thanks guys!
"The people who grew up reading comics are now in charge of pop culture and they're not going to suddenly stop reading comics. Get used to it: we're here to stay."
-- Ed Brubaker
What's that? You say you want a copy but can't make it to the con? Or you can, but you'd like to reserve your copy ahead of time? That we can do! Pre-orders for Volume II are now open.
'Code Name: Hunter'
Volume II: Internal Affairs
In which Ruby learns a few secrets and Max dances with the fey.
It's a time of revealed secrets. Moraine learns some unsettling facts about RCSI's activities in Astoria, Ruby learns about her parents' relations to Cedric, and Max... learns that his folks still don't understand what his job actually is.
Meanwhile, the Treaty Night with the fey is coming. Has Moraine's insistence on Max being there made him a sitting duck?
Contains Issues 8-14 and the interlude 'Lifts and Liaisons'.
204 Pages
Toned Black and White
Perfect bound
$15.00 USD
Looking for something a little more with your pre-order? I'm currently offering con badge commission/book combos.
Anthrocon Badge Special and Volume II Combo! - $40
One Badge and a signed/sketched copy of 'Code Name: Hunter' Volume II: Internal Affairs. You save $5! (Or, $10 with a visual reference.)
Anthrocon Badge Special, Volume I, and Volume II Combo! - $55
One Badge and a signed/sketched copy of 'Code Name: Hunter' Volume I: A Political Spell and Volume II: Internal Affairs. You save $8! (Or, $13 with a visual reference.)
Please see my commissions page for more information on badges and ordering.
All pre-orders not picked up at Anthrocon will be shipped out mid-June. Due to the economy, we're ordering smaller runs of the CN:H books at a time. To ensure you receive a copy before we run out and need to reorder, reserve yours today!
Thanks guys!
"The people who grew up reading comics are now in charge of pop culture and they're not going to suddenly stop reading comics. Get used to it: we're here to stay."
-- Ed Brubaker
Thursday, April 12, 2012
Con badge - Gray Muzzle
Another commission complete, this time for Gray Muzzle.
'Gray Muzzle' | inks, copic markers, white pencil, white gel pen | 4x6 | Commission
Unfortunately, I've found that my light cream/tan marker that I used on the shirt and the purples that I use for shading are running a little low. I'll have to pick up refills eventually. I need to refill my C2 marker as well, but luckily I have the ink for that.
Tomorrow I'm going to continue with badges and get Phil's done if I can. I'd like to get four badges finished this week so I can spend next week working on the first few full-sized commissions. I'll probably have to sacrifice one of the CN:H workdays for that, but I can draft story layouts in my head while working. I just can't have the TV on while I do it. So, it's all good.
Anyway, I've some ideas to sketch out and a badge to laminate. So, I should get to it. Later!
"My songs are like my kids."
-- Billy Joel
'Gray Muzzle' | inks, copic markers, white pencil, white gel pen | 4x6 | Commission
Unfortunately, I've found that my light cream/tan marker that I used on the shirt and the purples that I use for shading are running a little low. I'll have to pick up refills eventually. I need to refill my C2 marker as well, but luckily I have the ink for that.
Tomorrow I'm going to continue with badges and get Phil's done if I can. I'd like to get four badges finished this week so I can spend next week working on the first few full-sized commissions. I'll probably have to sacrifice one of the CN:H workdays for that, but I can draft story layouts in my head while working. I just can't have the TV on while I do it. So, it's all good.
Anyway, I've some ideas to sketch out and a badge to laminate. So, I should get to it. Later!
"My songs are like my kids."
-- Billy Joel
Wednesday, April 11, 2012
Con badge - Tali
Morning! The first badge was completed yesterday. Unfortunately, things happened and I just got a chance to laminate it a bit ago. Here's M. Mitchell Marmel's Tali!
'Tali' | inks, copic markers, white pencil, white gel pen | 4x6 | Commission
I hope she turned out well.
I'm a little behind, so while I'll be starting Gray Muzzle's badge today, I won't have the coloring complete until tomorrow. I always forget that we've an appointment on Wednesdays which takes up most of the afternoon. I should really schedule Wednesday as an off day. It'd save me a lot of aggro.
Aggro? I think I've been watching a little too much Only fools and Horses lately.
"If everything seems under control, you're just not going fast enough."
-- Mario Andretti
'Tali' | inks, copic markers, white pencil, white gel pen | 4x6 | Commission
I hope she turned out well.
I'm a little behind, so while I'll be starting Gray Muzzle's badge today, I won't have the coloring complete until tomorrow. I always forget that we've an appointment on Wednesdays which takes up most of the afternoon. I should really schedule Wednesday as an off day. It'd save me a lot of aggro.
Aggro? I think I've been watching a little too much Only fools and Horses lately.
"If everything seems under control, you're just not going fast enough."
-- Mario Andretti
Monday, April 9, 2012
Sketchbook - Pose ideas
I'm just about ready to head downstairs for some sketching. But first, here's a bit of sketchbook scratchings. Just working out pose ideas.
Okay, down I go!
"The greatest obstacle to most people isn't skill, it's attitude."
-- Harley Brown
Okay, down I go!
"The greatest obstacle to most people isn't skill, it's attitude."
-- Harley Brown
Sketchbook - Copic practice
Morning! Today I have a few pages from the Copic sketchbook to share. Just practicing fey eyes and a desert landscape. The swatches of color underneath are the markers that were used.
I've been so neglectful of my sketchbooks. I don't know why. Just fell out of the habit, I guess. Which reminds me, I need to do some preliminary sketches for today's badges before I start the finished versions. So, I'll probably have something to share here in a bit. For now, I need to finish getting my day started. Later!
"An hour of practice is worth five hours of foot-dragging."
-- Pancho Segura
I've been so neglectful of my sketchbooks. I don't know why. Just fell out of the habit, I guess. Which reminds me, I need to do some preliminary sketches for today's badges before I start the finished versions. So, I'll probably have something to share here in a bit. For now, I need to finish getting my day started. Later!
"An hour of practice is worth five hours of foot-dragging."
-- Pancho Segura
Sunday, April 8, 2012
Guest post on Nattosoup
Hey everyone! I've been a little quietly lately, I know. Just taking a short break from the web before diving into the current commissions batch. I've gotten behind on my reading. Time to catch up!
Commission work will start tomorrow. In the meantime, check out this guest post I did for Becca over at Nattosoup - Printing Gotchas. It's about a few of the things Matt and myself have learned from bringing webcomics into print over the last few years. Stop by and give it a look.
While you're there, be sure to read through her blog. Becca has created a treasure trove of information including anatomy advice, studies, product reviews, and samples of her work. She's a talented, dedicated artist who deserves a lot more respect and attention.
"There are two men inside the artist, the poet and the craftsman. One is born a poet. One becomes a craftsman."
-- Emile Zola
Commission work will start tomorrow. In the meantime, check out this guest post I did for Becca over at Nattosoup - Printing Gotchas. It's about a few of the things Matt and myself have learned from bringing webcomics into print over the last few years. Stop by and give it a look.
While you're there, be sure to read through her blog. Becca has created a treasure trove of information including anatomy advice, studies, product reviews, and samples of her work. She's a talented, dedicated artist who deserves a lot more respect and attention.
"There are two men inside the artist, the poet and the craftsman. One is born a poet. One becomes a craftsman."
-- Emile Zola
Friday, April 6, 2012
I'll catch-up with commission emails tomorrow
Hey guys! I've got a bit of confusion going on with the incoming commissions at the moment. Everyone came in at once here. So, I'll be going through and contacting everyone tomorrow. There may be some wait-listing, but these should go fairly quickly so, I wouldn't be too worried. I'll get back with everyone tomorrow. I'm sorry about the delay.
Thanks guys!
"The mere attempt to examine my own confusion would consume volumes."
-- James Agee
Thanks guys!
"The mere attempt to examine my own confusion would consume volumes."
-- James Agee
Wednesday, April 4, 2012
Join the mailing list and get stuff!
Hey everyone! I have in my hand a little under 200 postcards announcing the release of CN:H Volume II. The postcards will be shipping out later today.
And these aren't wussy postcards either. We're talking nice, thick card stock with a high gloss finish on the front. They're like mini prints. Free mini prints. And who doesn't like receiving a bit of art through the mail? No one I know.
I'll be doing more postcards in the future. I'd like to send out a new batch of cards at least four times a year. Some will be for promotions such as book releases and cons. But others will be for holidays and fun things, including raffles (for the original art for upcoming postcards) as well as discounts and give-aways.
If you'd like to get in on this postcard action, please email your name and address to Matt and myself at rcsi@rcsipublishing.com. No worries, we do not - and will not - share this list with anyone else. It stays within RCSI Publishing.
Thanks guys!
"When you have confidence, you can have a lot of fun. And when you have fun, you can do amazing things."
-- Joe Namath
And these aren't wussy postcards either. We're talking nice, thick card stock with a high gloss finish on the front. They're like mini prints. Free mini prints. And who doesn't like receiving a bit of art through the mail? No one I know.
I'll be doing more postcards in the future. I'd like to send out a new batch of cards at least four times a year. Some will be for promotions such as book releases and cons. But others will be for holidays and fun things, including raffles (for the original art for upcoming postcards) as well as discounts and give-aways.
If you'd like to get in on this postcard action, please email your name and address to Matt and myself at rcsi@rcsipublishing.com. No worries, we do not - and will not - share this list with anyone else. It stays within RCSI Publishing.
Thanks guys!
"When you have confidence, you can have a lot of fun. And when you have fun, you can do amazing things."
-- Joe Namath
Tuesday, April 3, 2012
Commissions now open! Including Anthrocon specials!
Morning guys! As I mentioned quick yesterday, commissions are now open! I have full-sized commissions as well as badges and book specials available. Come check it out!
I'll be opening ten slots up at a time - five Badges and five Full-Sized commissions. Once a section is filled, no further commissions will be taken until a free space opens up. Once that happens, it's up for grabs, moving everyone else up the queue.
Are you going to Anthrocon? Visit the RCSI Publishing table at J16/J17 and pick up your badges there! Free shipping! For extra fun, order an Anthrocon Badge Special!
Better yet, make it a Book and Badge Combo! Volume II of 'Code Name: Hunter' will debut at AC. Order yours ahead of time with your badge and pick up both at the con!
'Your Character as an RCSI Agent' Badge - $30
SAMPLE
Choose between the Astorian garb (from Issue 3), standard grays (Max's current outfit in the comic), or street clothes. Weapons are available at no extra charge. Please note, guns are not my strong point.
Badges are 5x6 (before lamination), fully colored with Copic markers on Bristol board, and laminated. Waist-up shots only, no full bodies or backgrounds. A badge clip is included. Sketch previews and revisions are not available for badge commissions.
Price:
$30 USD - Flat fee
- $5 USD - Visual ref discount
'Your Character as a Member of the Fey' - Badge - $30
SAMPLE
Choose between Winter or Summer Court. Remember, Winter Court has black eyes while Summer Court has regular eyes. You decide on the magic color. Extras like horns and wings can be added to your character at no extra charge.
Badges are 5x6 (before lamination), fully colored with Copic markers on Bristol board, and laminated. Waist-up shots only, no full bodies or backgrounds. A badge clip is included. Sketch previews and revisions are not available for badge commissions.
Price:
$30 USD - Flat fee
- $5 USD - Visual ref discount
General Con Badge - $30
SAMPLE
Not interested in a Fey or Agent badge? Try a general badge.
Badges are 5x6 (before lamination), fully colored with Copic markers on Bristol board, and laminated. Waist-up shots only, no full bodies or backgrounds. A badge clip is included. Sketch previews and revisions are not available for badge commissions.
Price:
$30 USD - Flat fee
- $5 USD - Visual ref discount
Anthrocon Badge Special and Volume II Combo! - $40
One Badge and a signed/sketched copy of 'Code Name: Hunter' Volume II: Internal Affairs (pre-order).
Price:
$40 USD - Flat fee
You save $5! (Or, $10 with a visual reference.)
Anthrocon Badge Special, Volume I, and Volume II Combo! - $55
One Badge and a signed/sketched copy of 'Code Name: Hunter' Volume I: A Political Spell and Volume II: Internal Affairs (pre-order).
Price:
$55 USD - Flat fee
You save $8! (Or, $13 with a visual reference.)
Full-Sized Commission - Starting at $50
SAMPLE I | SAMPLE II | SAMPLE III | SAMPLE IV | SAMPLE V
Interested in something a little more substantial than a con badge? Then this is the commission for you! Full color commission done on 9x12 Bristol board in ink and Copic markers. Other mediums are not available at this time.
Prices:
$50 USD - Single character, no background
- $15 USD - Visual ref discount
+ $10 USD - Per additional character (max of three)
+ $40 USD - Add in a background
Please visit my commissions page for more information. Thank you!
"To be successful, we have to be positive and pro-active. If you don't like what is happening to you, do something about it."
-- Nancy Smith Couick
I'll be opening ten slots up at a time - five Badges and five Full-Sized commissions. Once a section is filled, no further commissions will be taken until a free space opens up. Once that happens, it's up for grabs, moving everyone else up the queue.
Are you going to Anthrocon? Visit the RCSI Publishing table at J16/J17 and pick up your badges there! Free shipping! For extra fun, order an Anthrocon Badge Special!
Better yet, make it a Book and Badge Combo! Volume II of 'Code Name: Hunter' will debut at AC. Order yours ahead of time with your badge and pick up both at the con!
'Your Character as an RCSI Agent' Badge - $30
SAMPLE
Choose between the Astorian garb (from Issue 3), standard grays (Max's current outfit in the comic), or street clothes. Weapons are available at no extra charge. Please note, guns are not my strong point.
Badges are 5x6 (before lamination), fully colored with Copic markers on Bristol board, and laminated. Waist-up shots only, no full bodies or backgrounds. A badge clip is included. Sketch previews and revisions are not available for badge commissions.
Price:
$30 USD - Flat fee
- $5 USD - Visual ref discount
'Your Character as a Member of the Fey' - Badge - $30
SAMPLE
Choose between Winter or Summer Court. Remember, Winter Court has black eyes while Summer Court has regular eyes. You decide on the magic color. Extras like horns and wings can be added to your character at no extra charge.
Badges are 5x6 (before lamination), fully colored with Copic markers on Bristol board, and laminated. Waist-up shots only, no full bodies or backgrounds. A badge clip is included. Sketch previews and revisions are not available for badge commissions.
Price:
$30 USD - Flat fee
- $5 USD - Visual ref discount
General Con Badge - $30
SAMPLE
Not interested in a Fey or Agent badge? Try a general badge.
Badges are 5x6 (before lamination), fully colored with Copic markers on Bristol board, and laminated. Waist-up shots only, no full bodies or backgrounds. A badge clip is included. Sketch previews and revisions are not available for badge commissions.
Price:
$30 USD - Flat fee
- $5 USD - Visual ref discount
Anthrocon Badge Special and Volume II Combo! - $40
One Badge and a signed/sketched copy of 'Code Name: Hunter' Volume II: Internal Affairs (pre-order).
Price:
$40 USD - Flat fee
You save $5! (Or, $10 with a visual reference.)
Anthrocon Badge Special, Volume I, and Volume II Combo! - $55
One Badge and a signed/sketched copy of 'Code Name: Hunter' Volume I: A Political Spell and Volume II: Internal Affairs (pre-order).
Price:
$55 USD - Flat fee
You save $8! (Or, $13 with a visual reference.)
Full-Sized Commission - Starting at $50
SAMPLE I | SAMPLE II | SAMPLE III | SAMPLE IV | SAMPLE V
Interested in something a little more substantial than a con badge? Then this is the commission for you! Full color commission done on 9x12 Bristol board in ink and Copic markers. Other mediums are not available at this time.
Prices:
$50 USD - Single character, no background
- $15 USD - Visual ref discount
+ $10 USD - Per additional character (max of three)
+ $40 USD - Add in a background
Please visit my commissions page for more information. Thank you!
"To be successful, we have to be positive and pro-active. If you don't like what is happening to you, do something about it."
-- Nancy Smith Couick
Monday, April 2, 2012
Con badges - Ruby and Gavin
While commissions are now open, I haven't mentioned it yet. Been busy. For now, here are the Ruby and Gavin badges.
Ruby's acting as a sample of the "Your Character as an RCSI Agent!" badge while Gavin is a sample of the "Your Character as a Member of the Fey!" badge. These are special for Anthrocon since their theme this year is A Midsummer Night's Dream. We'll also be debuting the Volume II trade at AC so, these badges seemed appropriate.
'Ruby' | inks, copic markers, white pencil, white gel pen | 4x6 | Not Available
'Gavin' | inks, copic markers, white pencil, white gel pen | 4x6 | Not Available
They're a little over 5x6 (before lamination) and are done on Bristol board with ink, Copic markers, a white colored pencil, and a clear glitter pen.
Hey, with Volume II coming out at AC, maybe we can do a special book and badge combo pack or something. Hmm, I'll have to talk that over with Matt. Could be interesting.
Well, I'd better get back to work. Later!
Sitting in a back room waiting for the big boom
I'm in a bedroom waiting for my baby
-- Wild Wild West - Escape Club
Ruby's acting as a sample of the "Your Character as an RCSI Agent!" badge while Gavin is a sample of the "Your Character as a Member of the Fey!" badge. These are special for Anthrocon since their theme this year is A Midsummer Night's Dream. We'll also be debuting the Volume II trade at AC so, these badges seemed appropriate.
'Ruby' | inks, copic markers, white pencil, white gel pen | 4x6 | Not Available
'Gavin' | inks, copic markers, white pencil, white gel pen | 4x6 | Not Available
They're a little over 5x6 (before lamination) and are done on Bristol board with ink, Copic markers, a white colored pencil, and a clear glitter pen.
Hey, with Volume II coming out at AC, maybe we can do a special book and badge combo pack or something. Hmm, I'll have to talk that over with Matt. Could be interesting.
Well, I'd better get back to work. Later!
Sitting in a back room waiting for the big boom
I'm in a bedroom waiting for my baby
-- Wild Wild West - Escape Club
Sunday, April 1, 2012
Studio tour
Yesterday was supposed to be for badge samples. Instead, I got distracted by the chance to work on - and finish up - the new website. So, badge work will continue today once it's daylight again.
One of the things added to the DarcSowers.Com site was a tour of the new studio. Remember me mentioning that the traditional work was being moved downstairs? Here's the result...
01. Ruby Suit Head
Ruby watches all I do.
02. To-Do List
Got to keep on track.
03. Wrist Exercisers
Good for loosening the wrist.
04. Pencil Sharpener
The best sharpener ever.
05. Copic Airbrush
Need more practice with this.
06. TV
Good audio distraction.
07. Sketching Pens
With some brushes thrown in.
08. Laminator
Ready and waiting for badges.
09. Watercolors
Need more practice.
10. Copic Markers
Love these!
11. Sketch Cards
For sketch card requests.
12. Clear Blender Refill
For Copic markers.
13. Lead Holders
Different lead levels.
14. Glass Jars
For watercolor water.
15. Pen Center
Inking, gel pens, and refills.
16. Supply Storage
Colored pencils, pastels, etc.
17. Paper Storage
Sketchbooks and Bristol.
18. Breyers
Beware the carpet herd.
19. The Morgue
Art books and comics.
20. Pillows?
Outdoor pillow storage.
Here's a few close-ups of the main supplies I've been using regularly lately...
Yes, everything's neat and organized. And no, not because it's newly moved. I tend to keep my work area clean and straightened up. I can't work in an unorganized space. I'm weird like that.
And... it's late. I think it's time to call it a night. Later.
"Keep your shop and your shop will keep you."
-- Benjamin Franklin
One of the things added to the DarcSowers.Com site was a tour of the new studio. Remember me mentioning that the traditional work was being moved downstairs? Here's the result...
01. Ruby Suit Head
Ruby watches all I do.
02. To-Do List
Got to keep on track.
03. Wrist Exercisers
Good for loosening the wrist.
04. Pencil Sharpener
The best sharpener ever.
05. Copic Airbrush
Need more practice with this.
06. TV
Good audio distraction.
07. Sketching Pens
With some brushes thrown in.
08. Laminator
Ready and waiting for badges.
09. Watercolors
Need more practice.
10. Copic Markers
Love these!
11. Sketch Cards
For sketch card requests.
12. Clear Blender Refill
For Copic markers.
13. Lead Holders
Different lead levels.
14. Glass Jars
For watercolor water.
15. Pen Center
Inking, gel pens, and refills.
16. Supply Storage
Colored pencils, pastels, etc.
17. Paper Storage
Sketchbooks and Bristol.
18. Breyers
Beware the carpet herd.
19. The Morgue
Art books and comics.
20. Pillows?
Outdoor pillow storage.
Here's a few close-ups of the main supplies I've been using regularly lately...
Yes, everything's neat and organized. And no, not because it's newly moved. I tend to keep my work area clean and straightened up. I can't work in an unorganized space. I'm weird like that.
And... it's late. I think it's time to call it a night. Later.
"Keep your shop and your shop will keep you."
-- Benjamin Franklin
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