Andy Updates

BOOK PLUG!

2012-01-12T10:05:00.000-08:00

INTREPIDS TRADE PAPEBACK IN STORES NOW!!!

INTREPIDS by Kurtis J. Wiebe and Scott Kowalchuk from Image Comics was one of my favorite new mini-series of 2011--it was first and foremost FUN, had secret island lairs, mad scientists and cybernetic grizzly bears! Did I mention the colors? Amazing color theories happening inside as well. Scott Kowalchuk has easily become one of my favorite artists--so I was more than eager to donate a pinup. Check out the book and tell me different. I dare you. Double dare you!

"IF I TOOT MY OWN HORN TOO MUCH, WILL I GO BLIND??"

2011-11-28T00:06:00.000-08:00

What some nice folks are sayin' about yours truly...

From BIF BAM POP'S COMIC STOP:

Truth is, I got some laughs out of Casey’s story of a seemingly inept doctor to all sorts of monsters and things that go bump in the night, but the main reason I think you should pick up this psychedelic spook story is for Andy Suriano’s trippy artwork. It felt like reading a Ralph Bakshi film on the page – and not one of his lesser films, like Cool World (sorry animated Kim Basinger and wooden Brad Pitt). Zombies, ghosts, man made monsters – if you like any of those, you’ll probably dig Doc Bizarre, M.D.

From a MULTIVERSITY COMICS.COM article:

Andy Suriano's art on Doc Bizarre is a sort of Silver Age blender. He's not as specific in his influence as, say, Tom Scioli's Kirby-ism in Godland -- a Kirby troll or shout here, a skewed and stilted Ditko posture there, a general ambience straight out of old pre-Code E.C., et cetera. Where a lot of retro-comix artists strive for a simplified, smoother, easier digested "retro" aura, Suriano's style is harsh and full of ragged edges. It's perfect for the craggly story Casey gives him, and it gives an uncomfortable physicality to a story that's about, uh, uncomfortable physicality.

You can read the reviews in their entirety by clicking the links.

*(some lucky recipient will get this original sketch!)

FACES OF DOC...

2011-11-27T12:43:00.000-08:00

Thanks to Twitter, not only do we know the inner-most workings of Justin Bieber's mind, but our collective world's are that much more connected...and thus more easily able to prod, poke and pester fellow artists into submitting pin-ups! I was fortunate enough to gather a collection of some of the most talented--and eclectic comic book artists and animators and have their work published side-by-side. I guarantee you won't find these folks together in the same book ever again. But I for one, thrive on diversity and think each artist brought their own unique vision to my character in a way I never--nor could ever think of! That's what made these so much fun and felt like Xmas every time one of my friends sent me their image. I love each and every one of their pieces.

I cropped out only their heads above for a small sampling. For a complete look at the final pin-ups, visit each respective artist's sites--as well as pick up your own copy of DOC BIZARRE MD!

Big sloppy kisses to:

Brianne Drouhard

Doc Shaner

Thomas Perkins

Stephen DeStefano

Tony Fleecs

Bob Boyle

Dan McDaid

Mike Allred

PJ Holden

Chris Houghton

*For those of you keeping score at home, that's 60 pages of story, PLUS 60 pages of bonus extras: sketches, development, page process, unused art, covers, pinups and guest pinups all wrapped in a beautiful hardcover!

"THEY'RE HEEEE-EEERE!!!"

2011-11-27T12:01:00.000-08:00

IN STORES THIS WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 30th!!!

"GET YOUR FREE ORIGINAL SKETCH ON!"

2011-11-27T11:30:00.000-08:00

Along with GOLDEN APPLE COMICS in Hollywood, CA, HOUSE OF SECRETS in Burbank, CA and geeky hipster online shoppers Valhalla THWIPSTER.COM-- 2 More prestigious shops have joined my "Free Original Sketch Incentive"! For those midwesterners, ALTER EGO COMICS in Marion Iowa and my favorite New York City comics shop: JIM HANLEY'S UNIVERSE!

Those are a lot of options, so this Wednesday (11/30), go pick up your DOC BIZARRE MD HC and get your free sketch on!!!

MADMAN!

2011-11-23T08:04:00.000-08:00

Cards on the table: Mike Allred is one of my favorite artists out there. MADMAN has been a huge influence on me and my work ever since the first issue of Grafik Muzik. So you can imagine the tingling in my testicles I got when he suggested we trade pinups in each of our respective books coming out--so here's mine for his what's sure-to-be beautiful oversized 11x17 Madman Super Spectacular 20th Anniversary Monster HC coming out at Christmas!

You can see Mike's pinup in DOC BIZARRE MD, out next week!

"FREE SKETCHES!!"

2011-11-20T14:17:00.000-08:00

In an effort to market myself and as part of an incentive for you good folks to purchase DOC BIZARRE MD, I took it upon myself to bust out about 50 original sketches, done on comic book backing boards--to be slipped into the inside (hard)cover. So far, GOLDEN APPLE COMICS in Hollywood, HOUSE OF SECRETS in Burbank and the online deal-givers THWIPSTER.COM are all participating!

If you don't live near any of these places, then the on-line route is for you--OR, you could alert your local comic shop and have them contact me and I would be more than happy to send them these little "treats". But they need to act fast!

Here are a couple samples. As you can see they range from floating heads to more intricate compositions....

The boys at House of Secrets asked for their sketches smaller, as to be easily slid inside books (above) and full pages (below).

"DOC BIZARRE AND THE SICK SPIDERS FROM SPACE !"

2011-11-16T19:14:00.000-08:00

DOC BIZARRE MD will be out in shops on 11/30--exactly 2 weeks away. I thought I would offer up some original pages for rent and/or sale in the days leading towards the books release!

Until I set up another blog/site devoted solely to Doc Biz pages, here's a sampling of one of my pinups. Below is the original inked page, on standard comic book paper--roughly 11x17. I have 8 original pinups, unused covers and final cover. Once the book is released I will have available 50 or so original story pages for sale as well. Just in time for Christmas!

If interested, lemme know at astrobug@hotmail.com

CHARACTER CONCEPTUAL DESIGN OF A DIFFERENT COLOR

2011-11-12T13:08:00.000-08:00

Most people are familiar with my character design work on more humorous or "cartoony" (Ahh! Bad word!) projects. I recently came across a few old files of conceptual work I did in a more serious/action tone. This was a project I worked on a year or two back that shall not be named yet, but I hope it makes it's way into your boxes soon. I really loved the concept. These designs weren't even CLOSE to the final character design--so it should be safe to post. I have more, but thought it would be fun to show two designs of the SAME character--and (CLASS, PAY ATTENTION), just by adjusting proportions, you can transform the character's personality. Personally, I would LOVE to revisit the bottom character sometime. He reminds me of a Caniff character in an old adventure strip. Anyone game?

MASTER LEGEND

2011-11-06T03:32:00.000-08:00

While I'm paaaaaainfully waiting for the printer to complete our respectable order #'s for DOC BIZARRE MD (the latest in store date I have now is 11/30. Yeah, I know. Sigh), as well as the remaining 4 PLASTIC MAN shorts to come back from being animated at TOON CITY in the Philippines (the first 2 are back and turned out GREAT, btw)--AND I'm finishing up my storyboarding duties on MOTORCITY for Disney XD, or, more accurately Titmouse Inc. (or even MORE accurately whatever payroll company they use!), I wanted to update this blog with SOMEthing. Below is more than just something--but a few comic pages I did for the above mentioned Titmouse studios for a Live Action Documentary called SUPERHEROES, about--you guessed it: real-life superheroes. I've only seen an early cut, but from what I gathered it's an awesome documentary. Last I heard HBO picked it up and aired it. I'm not sure what work of mine made it, but was really proud of the pages I did--some of my favorites in this medium, I think. All in all, I did 10 or so--and all were done entirely digitally. I typically don't share work stuff on here (not true), but I've been sitting on these for over a year, so hopefully it's ok if I share a couple images. This was one of my favorite freelance gigs. Enjoy.

As time gets nearer, I will try and post updates about Doc Bizarre's delivery, Plastic Man and a few other things I've got cookin'. T-M-N-T anyone?

"SNEAK PEAK!!!"

2011-10-06T00:32:00.000-07:00

Amazing digital paint by 'Stretchin' Steve Nicodemus!

"THE EEL AND THE BAT"

2011-08-28T23:22:00.001-07:00

You all will either love or hate what I've done to ol' Bats.

"IT'S A WRAP!"

2011-08-28T23:13:00.000-07:00

My previous celebratory pat-on-the-back was slightly premature due to technical issues (again) with the coloring process. As was very well articulated to me by my former colorist: apparently... "there is more to it than just painting" nice color schemes. I've had to reopen giant files multiple times to save as a myriad of ways--at (ad?) nauseam. But it's all taken care of now, so I can just kick up my feet and wait for that sweet, sweet, funny-book roll in... (*hick*)

"STRETCHED A LITTLE THIN..."

2011-08-28T23:09:00.000-07:00

Sure, it's a bad pun, but true nonetheless.

THE. END.

2011-08-25T22:17:00.000-07:00

After 2 years, a new house, a baby, a funeral and 3 colorists later...DOC BIZARRE M.D. is finished! I sure hope you check it out on October 19th.

ANOTHER PAGE...

2011-08-17T16:53:00.000-07:00

Hope you enjoy the sneak peak!

AND NOW SOMETHING TOTALLY UNRELATED...

2011-08-05T22:35:00.000-07:00

Wow. Not sure when the last time I just drew something "for fun"...okay. Now, back to work...

DOC BIZARRE MD SOLICITATION...

2011-08-03T21:28:00.000-07:00

PREVIEWS ordering catalog came out today and within it's pages (PG 187 in the Image Comics section, to be specific) was an ad for our hardcover graphic novel (in case you didn't see my 800 previous posts!). In any event, we included a few interior pages. They were small images, so here's a better look:

If you're reading this, than you are someone with very sophisticated taste--which means you will be filling out your Diamond ordering catalog to include (but not limited to) a copy of this book!

ORDER DOC BIZARRE!

2011-07-31T01:11:00.000-07:00

The latest PREVIEWS catalog comes out Wednesday and within it's pages will be an ad for DOC BIZARRE MD hardcover OGN. Here's the important part: you. Yes, YOU--need to pester, demand, threaten your local comics retailer to order one for you and several for the store. Any books published by anyone other than Marvel and DC usually do garbage numbers. Original and creator owned work does even worse. That is why it's important for us to speak up and support creator owned, original ideas--especially if they are packaged in a beautifully bound, over seventy-page hardcover with plenty of "extras" in the back... ; )

"ANATOMY OF A (DOC) BIZARRE PAGE" PART 1

2011-07-28T21:56:00.000-07:00

After shamelessly begging for some validation via twitter, I'm posting a few images breaking down (my) process with these DOC BIZARRE M.D. pages...

First I start with a thumbnail. This time around I did all my thumbnails digitally. This cut out the scanning process (at least at this stage) and made it easier to email Joe (Casey).

After failing miserably inking the first 9 pages digitally, I did the remaining pages in traditional pencils. After buying that awesome Brother MFC-6490CW scanner, I printed each thumbnail out and lightboxed over in blue (and red) pencil.

Next up: inks! Scariest process, for sure. It's permanent, baby! Wait, why am I talking like that??

After scanning all my inked page on my fancy new scanner, I did a broad overview/color script of the entire book so I had some idea of palette, visual dialog and more importantly, a starting point as I moved to final color...

That being said, I probably will still tweak this page a little bit more--but for the most part, this is where it's headed.

I hope you've enjoyed this little trip through my head. Did I lose any of you??

STUFF HAPPENS IN DOC BIZARRE MD!

2011-07-18T12:18:00.000-07:00

That's right! Stuff! Things! Something!

I edited out a key plot point for those of you looking to enjoy the printed version spoiler free.

The colors are coming along okay, but just when I'm the slightest bit pleased with my progress, I become disheartened and discouraged after seeing someone else's artwork that's exponentially more skilled. I feel like no matter what my stylistic intentions are going in to something, my animation background creeps in, for good or for bad: line weight, color, shading, "cartooniness" of character designs, etc. I'm at the point where I don't even know what my *style* is--I just hope I didn't repeat too many of my very green mistakes I made previously on CHARLATAN BALL.

I suppose I am getting better, although there is an anxiety that came with doing a book with so many pages and looming publishing deadline. Hopefully I took the time and care where needed, incorporated 'shortcuts' when prudent. I was fortunate to get (as far as I could see/google) all favorable reviews from my former collaboration with Joe. I hope this new book will warrant more keen eyes and word of mouth on it. Some folks will dig it, others will pick up other books.

Check back for more sneak peeks.

THE (HARD) COVER!

2011-07-16T11:53:00.000-07:00

IMAGE COMICS just released solicits for their books published in October, DOC BIZARRE MD being one of them! On the shelves OCTOBER 19th! Threaten your retailer's family, car, life to have them PREORDER this beautiful, 72+ page hardcover for a measly $12.99! That's what, the same as buying 2 or 3 shitty comics?? Do it! Do it now!!

"ON THE ROAD AGAIN"

2011-07-13T16:25:00.000-07:00

Actually, I'm not going anywhere. Not with the amount of work still ahead of me. Heck, I'm not even going to make it down to SDCC this year. *(Lot's of fist waving into the air!)

As it is, I can only talk about half of the projects I'm working on--and of those, can really only show one...so, hope you enjoy a few of these panels I colored!

'WARHOL'S OTHER CAN"

2011-06-25T13:05:00.000-07:00

This was a series of 5 prints done for the WET HOT AMERICAN SUMMER-themed show at GALLERY 1988 in Venice, CA. I was unable to make the opening (or subsequent days following due to an endless onslaught of deadlines), but was told all 5 prints, including the framed one, SOLD OUT!

This great but confusing news: I did a completely digital piece for the first time because my schedule didn't allow any "proper" oil painting before the deadline (which is generally always my first choice). So it's confusing, because if I'VE crossed that digital threshold, where does that put my stance as to what's considered "fine art" and what I've always dismissed as "design" or as I was once fond to say: "the shit us animators throw away every day at our JOBS". Food for thought. This time I'm the one eating at the table...

"AVENGER TIME!"

2011-06-23T00:31:00.000-07:00

I'm usually savvy enough to not post freelance--for a number of reasons, but I thought these were too fun and eventually revised so much they don't appear too similar to the final products, thus hopefully legally off the hook for posting.

The job required parody's of Marvel Super Heroes. Needless to say, it was probably my most favorite job--less any work Marvel wants to throw my way....? *crickets* No? Okay, moving on...

Below, a slight twist on a classic (I think the hat was a nice touch).
The HULK parody below was probably my favorite--as I have a fondness for the sort of hillbillyness of it's design.
And these two, well...
You can see the actual short here: http://www.cartoonbrew.com/tv/mads-marvel-superheroadventure-time-mash-up.html

COLOR REVEAL!

2011-06-17T19:22:00.001-07:00

COLOR SCRIPTS!

2011-06-15T02:21:00.000-07:00

After a literal revolving door of colorists for DOC BIZARRE MD, the schedule constituted me taking back the reigns of color duties, for better or for worse. I'm hoping I'm not spoiling anything by posting my rough thumbnail color scripts here. I hid the line art so not to reveal any plot points--although, if I was more than an ounce more skillful, you could technically be able to surmise plot through "feeling" the mood of the story through it's color pallet. But looking below, I'm sorry to say the story stays safely ambiguous. Let me know what you think.

Do the colors carry you on an emotional journey or do you need an airbag?

SKETCHY SKETCH

2011-05-05T18:04:00.000-07:00

...another sketchbook sketch.

Enjoy.

LAST PANEL INKED!

2011-04-30T20:49:00.000-07:00

A fitting end to two, long, hard years...

For those of you keeping score at home: after two years (and a whole lot of life therein), this past week I've finally completed penciling and inking DOC BIZARRE M.D., an OGN by myself and fellow CHARLATAN BALL collaborator, Joe Casey. This was the final panel I inked, albeit not the "last" page in the book as I decided to ink out-of-sequence to balance the heavier, more intricate panels with "easier" pages in order to meet self-imposed daily deadlines. Thank you to anyone that's been waiting for this book ever since it was announced at San Diego Comic Con a few years back. It will be out before you know it! Promise. I will continue to keep you posted as we push through coloring and general assembly process towards printing.

"WHATTYA MEAN, WE'RE NOT RELEASING FOR SDCC?!"

2011-03-10T23:57:00.000-08:00

Sadly, this appears to be true. It seems we might be needing aid with coloring this 60 page monster. As of this past weekend, we are in the market for a new colorist (our best to Marc and look forward to working with him again in the future). This new hurdle (nay, opportunity), will most likely delay our planned July release (deadline for solicits in Previews is next week). The most important goal we have and strive to maintain is delivering the HIGHEST QUALITY funny book entertainment we can. SO, whatever happens and whichever direction we take with the colors it will only benefit the book. That being said, the delay shouldn't be longer than a month.

I may be strapping on my color theory hat and tackling myself--although I've often seen Joe scratch his head at some of my pallet choices...

"GOT THE BLUES..."

2011-03-04T13:07:00.000-08:00

As I'm nearing the finish line on this thing, I found a few safe blue-penciled panels I could show...

(another head turn...)

I was really proud of these JACK DAVIS feet below:

...and if you can decipher the story from a few of these random panels from random pages then I will give you a free book!

THIS IS ALL I CAN SHOW...

2011-02-26T09:22:00.000-08:00

Getting close!

"HAVE A DRINK!"

2011-02-10T13:51:00.000-08:00

I've avoided posting any images from Joe Casey's and my DOC BIZARRE MD for a multitude of reasons, least of which is the recent slew of Doctor-in-Horror-genre titles coming out. I also need to be slightly more precious with my ideas. Also, I'm hoping you will buy this graphic novel when it's released, so I don't want to "give away the milk for free" or whatever that adage is. Flipping through my pages, I found one that was absolutely spoiler free (save the horrible liberties I take with perspective).

"IN THE BEGINNING--"

2011-01-10T00:42:00.000-08:00

--Or "Highfather was a Badass Pt. 2"...

To further illustrate the profound impact this story had on me as a kid I depicted another scene from The NEW GODS story. I remember finding this issue buried in my brother's box of comics, wedged somewhere beneath Colan's IRON MAN and Buscema's AVENGERS. The cover was missing, so I had absolutely no idea what this was, nor the vast titles it belonged too (we were a MARVEL household, apparently). I thought it looked sort of how I imagined my brother's Micronauts toys would've been illustrated and the stories wherein (obviously I was wrong). All I knew was that I thought IZAYA THE INHERITOR was cool, cool, cool!

"HIGHFATHER WAS A BADASS!"

2011-01-08T03:23:00.000-08:00

Continuing with a theme, I drew a scene from my absolute, hands down, favorite NEW GODS story. My favorite character in the Fourth World canon: IZAYA, THE INHERITOR!!!

THE BUG!

2011-01-06T22:51:00.000-08:00

FORAGER is one of my favorite characters out of Jack Kirby's Fourth World NEW GODS stories. After finishing up a freelance job where I needed to digitally ink and color pages fast (6-9 pages per day), I wanted to turn that newly learned looseness onto a sketch for myself (and an image I can actually post). This was the result. Hope you enjoy!

OMAC'S HEADING DOWN UNDER!

2010-12-21T00:02:00.000-08:00

...and by that I mean Australia, of course. All part of my "buy a book, get a separate sketch" promotion--which I didn't even start, by the way.

THERE'S STILL TIME!!!

2010-12-19T23:41:00.000-08:00

Don't let your kids hate Santa, click on the links to the left and order an ART OF ANDY sketchbook and CHARLATAN BALL TEE today!

Make me go to the post office a few days before Christmas! I dare you!

"BETTER THAN A WOOPIE CUSHION"

2010-12-19T22:00:00.000-08:00

I just finished up my 1st semester teaching character design at CalArts. A class or two ago I caught Manny drawing this during class when he should've been doing the assignment...

Hahaha. As punishment, I insisted he give me this drawing of me to further feed my narcissism.

I'm partial towards the one Sam(antha) did of me because I'm better looking:
...A+ for both of them!

SOMEONE'S TURNING ONE...

2010-12-03T13:02:00.000-08:00

SOME RECENT SKETCHES...

2010-11-30T10:37:00.000-08:00

"GALACTUS ATE MY HOMEWORK"

2010-11-04T11:27:00.000-07:00

Some of you are aware I've been teaching an Intro to Character Design in Animation class to second year students at CalArts. The hardest part about teaching is having never verbalized what I do before. There has definitely been some mumbling and trailing off involved...

I thought this was a fun assignment I gave. For those of you not in my class, feel free to give it a try!

Below is the incredible Tom Fowler's minimalist TWART piece successfully breaking down the FF into their most simplest forms.
...and here's the lesson I gave them life drawing with sticks...and then beating them with them. Kidding, of course. There was no life drawing...

"ANYONE REMEMBER WHEN I WAS ON DEXTER'S LAB?"

2010-10-27T18:02:00.000-07:00

Yes, I portrayed "Andy Suriano, 2nd shortest kid in Dexter's class"; which, of course meant I bullied Dexter because he was even shorter...and let's not forget chicks. I got the chicks...

COLD WAR KID

2010-10-12T16:54:00.000-07:00

This one was a Nick Fury request from my new French friend Bruno.

2010-10-08T03:01:00.000-07:00

(ONE) HAMMER OF JUSTICE

2010-10-07T14:09:00.000-07:00

1ST MUTANT

2010-10-06T00:19:00.000-07:00

"Z-Z-ZOMBIE!!!"

2010-10-05T10:45:00.000-07:00

"TO ROB, LOVE KAMANDI"

2010-10-04T00:15:00.000-07:00

NEW SYM-BIONIC TITAN ON TONIGHT!

2010-10-01T19:05:00.000-07:00

I believe I did storyboards on this one!

"THE SKETCHBOOKS ARE IN THE MAIL!"

2010-09-30T11:08:00.000-07:00

Hey all; thanks all of you in this recent batch of sketchbook purchases. And thanks Brian Warmoth @ COMICS ALLIANCE for this cool article!

They've all been sent out, so hopefully most will receive in the next couple days.

There's a sketch inside each book, as well as a special separate one as well!

WATCH SYM-BIONIC TITAN TONIGHT AT 8PM ON CARTOON NETWORK

2010-09-17T00:05:00.000-07:00

The gang that did SAMURAI JACK and STAR WARS: THE CLONE WARS are back together again! Watch the fruits of our labors tonight at 8pm on Cartoon Network.

"EXCUSE ME, BUT I BELIEVE YOU ARE WEARING MY DOG ON YOUR HEAD--"

2010-09-16T23:30:00.000-07:00

Nope, just me, my moppy hair and a drawing of Vampirella. That's also DAVE JOHNSON and PAUL HARMON behind me, too.

Thanks GOLDEN APPLE and TITMOUSE for the signing. Oh! And the booze. Thanks for the booze.

SIGNING AT GOLDEN APPLE COMICS THIS FRIDAY!

2010-09-07T20:08:00.000-07:00

Stop on by! I'll draw and sign some stuff. "There will be aaaaaaalllllcohollllll...."

"WHY I WEAR A SHIRT NOW"

2010-09-06T21:15:00.000-07:00

"CHUCK'S AMOK IN COMMISSIONS!"

2010-08-29T23:45:00.000-07:00

Another FREE sketch (separate from the one inside the book), with an order of my hardcover. Thanks, Craig! Hope you enjoy!

THE GREAT MACHINE!

2010-08-22T11:06:00.000-07:00

This commission request sort of thru me for a loop. I'll admit, I never read a single issue of EX MACHINA. I love Brian K. Vaughan's work--but realistic takes on superheroes in real situations never really excites me. That being said, I thoroughly enjoyed the challenge of drawing something so insanely detailed and pulling it into my style, which is admittingly more expressive, than photo realistic.

How do you get commissions? Ask me; or become Brian Winkeler's friend! : )

HELLBOY!!!

2010-08-22T11:05:00.000-07:00

One of my favorite character's to draw. This was a recent commission request and ultimately birthday gift for the aforementioned Kevin.

"HAPPY BIRTHDAY, KEVIN!!!"

2010-08-22T11:04:00.000-07:00

This one went out to Kevin Blankenship at www.randomtoons.com Check him out!

ALIEN SODOMY: THE EPIDEMIC!

2010-08-22T11:02:00.000-07:00

Do YOU want a drawing of alien's 'doing' it? You CAN: just order one of my ART OF ANDY hardcover sketchbooks (link in column on the left). I've been feeling pretty generous lately; I've been including commission sketches with each order at no charge. Not sure how long that will last...

"PUCK YOU!"

2010-08-11T13:11:00.001-07:00

If you've seen me, it's probably no surprise that this former ALPHA FLIGHT member was one of my favorite characters in the Marvel Universe.

DOTS DOC

2010-08-11T00:15:00.000-07:00

After discovering this past SDCC that another book with a very similar theme has recently closed the gap on coincidental similarities, I'm going to have to start withholding a whole bunch from this project. I'm aware this happens all the time and similar ideas are striking all over the place at once; and admittingly this isn't the most original, being inspired no less than certain Japanese manga that's come before.

I will say it's coming along great, especially now that I've turned off the cintiq and picked back up my brush pens. The above isn't an example of either, as it is 100% digital. I just wanted to experiment a bit after a visit/lesson for the incredibly talented Uncle Phil.

NEW PAINTING...

2010-08-11T00:14:00.000-07:00

Sobering circumstances necessitated this paintings start to completion in two days; photographed then shipped (while still slightly wet--oils, after all). This was actually the very first painting I've done in over a year. I had to crack open my paints and brush off the cobwebs. Hope you enjoy.

The No Prize goes to those of you that spots Daredevil!

"BASTARD!"

2010-08-11T00:13:00.000-07:00

Let's be honest. Twitter is an extremely creatively lazy way to waste time. But it's also a very convenient way to communicate with peers you've might've never had the opportunity to communicate with before. Case in point: Brian Winkeler. He and artist Dave Curd have an amazing property entitled BASTARD ROAD, which has appeared in the (Eisner Award winning) anthology POPGUN from Image Comics.

Another good thing about Twitter, it give me another forum to peddle my wares (since I still refuse a facebook account). Brian was cool enough to order my hardcover. I in turn included an original sketch of his characters. BASTARD ROAD is truly an amazing, fun read. I definitely cannot recommend high enough. If you liked R. Grampa's MESMO DELIVERY, you'll really dig their book.
Brian was so cool, he even put together the above snapshot for his Twitter Followers.

You can check out Bastard Road HERE. Dave Curd HERE and Brian Winkeler HERE.

THE BRAVE AND THE BOLD TEAMUP THAT NEVER HAPPENED...

2010-08-11T00:12:00.000-07:00

I know I tweeted about this; but for those of you not following, this page was from an issue of BATMAN THE BRAVE AND THE BOLD that was prematurely canceled before I could finish. I was having a lot of fun designing and drawing Animal Man for this incarnation of the character.

The word on the street is this title will be restarted at another publisher. No word yet on whether I'll be asked to contribute. I sure hope so, it was so fun to work on and with people like J. Torres and Dan Davis, to name a few.

SDCC 2010 IMAGE COMICS YEARBOOK

2010-07-23T16:33:00.000-07:00

I've got a cool pinup in this book for our upcoming title DOC BIZARRE M.D.

Don't miss your only chance to pick up the IMAGE COMICS 2010 SAN DIEGO COMIC-CON YEARBOOK, a 48-page full-cover hardcover art book, during Comic-Con 2010 for $30 at Image Comics booth #2729.

BACK TO THE DOCTOR...

2010-07-20T09:03:00.000-07:00

After 10 joyless digital pages, I have decided to switch back over to illustrating traditionally. I'm hoping this will expedite the process a little more. Now I just need to get a big enough scanner. Any suggestions?

I did this piece as a warm up--and mostly because I missed just drawing for fun. Remember that?

MOOK!

2010-07-09T19:10:00.000-07:00

Come celebrate the pre-SDCC book launch of Titmouse Studios' MOOK! You can find the show info HERE. You should totally go, y'all. I'll have a painting and a few framed pages from CHARLATAN BALL! It's one night only, so input the date on your iCalendars.

MOOK is the brainchild of Metalocalypse producers Chris Prynoski and Ben Kalina. It's a 100 page hardcover featuring some of today's biggest animation talent--check out DAVE JOHNSON'S gorgeous cover image (above). Below is part of my 8 page contribution. More important than me talking about it, you should by one. You can do so HERE.

MORE PHONE DOODLES...

2010-07-05T23:07:00.000-07:00

I think we've all tried drawing LUKE CAGE in full POWER MAN glory at some point.

Not sure what I can say about this one, other than "don't ask, don't tell".

"HE SHOWED US WE HAD EXTRA SKIN THERE"

2010-06-27T13:25:00.000-07:00

SOME PHONE DOODLES...

2010-06-26T12:03:00.000-07:00

...While flipping through an OFFICIAL HANDBOOK TO THE MARVEL UNIVERSE. My bible growing up.

J-A...

J-U...

K-A...

...and just something out of my head.

THE FINAL PAINTING...

2010-06-07T22:10:00.000-07:00

It's been almost exactly one year since we've moved from Ktown and my upstairs studio; hence one year since painting. This was the final piece in my "Tales of the Sea and Other Forms of Child Endangerment". It started out as a piece for a Gallery 1988 show, depicting a scene from Jim Jarmusch's DEADMAN. Needless to say, it sucked and I ended up doing a PeeWee Herman painting instead. Eventually I came back to it and painted this image over top of my debacle. I usually give up such endeavors due to overworking the canvas. This was the first time I was okay with the result--even if it is a little more than heavy handed with visual metaphors.

"THE INTELLECTUAL"

OIL AND MIXED MEDIA ON CANVAS

18"x36"

"AND I HAVE STARED INTO THE LIGHT AND SEEN HIM WHOM THEY SPEAK..."

2010-06-06T02:05:00.000-07:00

Man, light tables and cintiqs generate so much heat; it's like having a Vision Quest.

SOME DADDY DOODLES...

2010-06-04T10:18:00.000-07:00

These are a couple of tales of fatherhood I've recently posted via twitter. I've just started tweeting; unless you consider that to mean something else--in which case I've been doing much longer. Technology has finally caught up to my narcissism!

The jury is still out on whether twitter is a fun way to catch up with mild acquaintances and porn stars, or a complete waste of time. I'm not on facebook for exactly that reason. That, and hoping for friendster to make a comeback. hahaha That being said, @Jon_Favreau retweeted an Iron Man drawing I did resulting in over 4k views within minutes. So, that's cool.

"IS ANYONE ELSE LOVING THIS TEAMUP??"

2010-05-25T18:37:00.000-07:00

Gotta tell you Marvel, the only reason I picked up the latest Marvel Zombies series is because you teamed up Machine Man with Howard the Duck! Incredible! Continuing to "Make mine Marvel!"

You don't even have to look closely to see I started to attempt a nice, controlled drawing (check out Aaron Stack's head!), but then remembered I have another pressing deadline. Ha! BIIIIIG thanks to Dan McDaid for showing me how to make the dot patterns!

"NEW COMICS DAY!!!" UPDATE

2010-05-21T23:54:00.000-07:00

After a week of unemployment/daddy duty, I finally made it to HOUSE OF SECRETS comic shop in Burbank...to discover DC switched my issue #17 of Batman: Brave and the Bold!? It was NOT our Aquaman story, as solicited.

What gives, DC??

"NEW COMICS DAY!!!"

2010-05-19T09:45:00.000-07:00

Yay! My Batman Brave & the Bold issue #17 comes out today! Written by the uber talented J. Torres and inked by Dan (the man) Davis.

Above are a few digitally penciled pages from the interior. Pages 12-15 respectively.

I think this was the first completely digital issue I had done. I'm aware there's zero page resell value, but wanted to at least experiment, weighing the pros and cons to apply for future endeavors. Jury's still out...as the next issue I worked traditionally (on board), but am currently working all digitally with DOC BIZARRE M.D.

I've been wanting to show off some traditionally penciled pages from the Animal Man team up, but thought it best to wait on a confirmation if the book is going forward or not: half-way through I was told to stop all work on it, as the future of the title was then undecided. So, if you like this book, write into DC or make sure you have your shops order them. It's a shame more kids aren't reading comics these days.

LET'S HOPE THIS WEEKS LOST IS BETTER THAN LAST

2010-05-18T00:37:00.001-07:00

"DEAR MARVEL COMICS EDITORS..."

2010-05-13T17:42:00.000-07:00

"RYAN REYNOLDS CAN SUCK IT!"

2010-05-13T17:23:00.000-07:00

Done. No CGI necessary.

"WILD CHILD"

2010-05-06T01:48:00.000-07:00

"IS THERE A DOCTOR IN THE HOUSE!? OH, EXCEPT YOU."

2010-05-06T01:46:00.000-07:00

WITH COLOR...

2010-04-29T01:02:00.000-07:00

Time and budget restraints (no money) necessitated I color this promo piece myself. I ended up somewhat happy with what I ultimately came up with--although I still need to adjust some transparency layers and whatnot. I don't want to give away the final image just yet. If you are attending San Diego Comic Con this year, you can pick up an Image Yearbook they are putting together to promote their books being released in 2010.

"STEP ON IT, DRIVER! WE'RE LATE!"

2010-04-21T12:28:00.000-07:00

--Feel free to read into this panel anyway you want; if I don't get this done soon, Joe's gonna kill me!

MARKERS. SIGH.

2010-04-10T12:53:00.000-07:00

I'm currently culling through what seems to be endless files searching for additions to do an updated portfolio (I'll be back on the job market soon!), when I came across this old freelance job I had done ages ago. It was being developed from a children's book called MOON DOG, if I'm remembering correctly. I was particularly pleased with the fact I was able to do this giant marker comp in one take (I think it was the scale of this thing that was so daunting)--I remembered being terrified I'd make a stupid mistake three quarters through. Markers are a lot less forgiving than photoshop and the convenience of a "command z"!

"LET'S PUT IT ALL TOGETHER NOW..."

2010-03-30T22:33:00.000-07:00

"PUTTIN' ON THE RITZ!"

2010-03-29T22:12:00.000-07:00

ANOTHER TEASE...

2010-03-27T01:21:00.000-07:00

--albeit minus background, ground plane and the multitude of scary characters littered on the page.

RECENT COMIC SOLICITS...

2010-03-21T12:19:00.000-07:00

Although I've heard nothing but stellar raves about this book, I've never actually read it--dismissing it for being a generation or two behind my comprehension (yes, I'm being ignorant)--but I might've looked at it sooner had they used Dylan McCrae before. Look at how beautiful that cover is!

Oh my God; I am so happy to see these guys back in action! "Dear DC Comics, please let me do an Inferior Five book!"

"WALK THIS WAY..."

2010-03-20T22:05:00.000-07:00

Here's another inked panel from my upcoming book.

IT'S THE WEEKEND...ENJOY.

2010-03-20T14:57:00.001-07:00

Here's a little treat for you sicko's. The brainchild of Titmouse's BEN KALINA and DAVE GERHARD, the incredible ERIC BAUZA provided voices and CHRIS BATTLE and myself lent the designs.

I'm sorry in advance.

FUELED BY HATE...

2010-03-16T17:56:00.000-07:00

The term "Collective Subconscious" gets thrown around alot these days...but this one reeeeeaaally hurts:

Ughhh.

This was my 'million dollar baby'--ten years gestating, started, stopped, started, pitched, started, stopped...let this be a lesson to all you creators: don't wait to put out that idea, do it. Complete it, in some form, some how. Man. This stings.

My version is soooo much better.

STILL STRUGGLING WITH DIGITAL INKS...

2010-03-06T16:13:00.000-08:00

These are small excerpts from the new book I'm doing. I'm still pouring way too much labour into the line weights--and it shows. I'll give it a few more pages, but I'm really concerned about the line stiffness.

I'm also worried about hitting my deadline!

working from home...

2010-03-05T16:24:00.000-08:00

"I'M AN ANIMAL!"

2010-03-04T17:33:00.000-08:00

Just working out some designs for an upcoming issue of BATMAN BRAVE & THE BOLD. I guess it's obvious who Batman will be teaming up with this time...

I love this character! Knowing Jame Tucker and Co. like to go retro, I sketched out the above STRANGE ADVENTURES version with the scales. That being said, the modern version below is one of my favorite DC costumes of all time.

I made the mistake of thinking the super-animal rights-hero's jacket was leather.

Which version did they decide on? You'll have to wait until the issue comes out!

"IN-DI-GES-TION..."

2010-03-02T12:08:00.000-08:00

"THE DOCTOR IS IN..."

2010-03-01T23:00:00.000-08:00

Finally.

After stretching the thumbnails for the Doc Bizarre M.D. one-shot into a 60+ page OGN, I've begun the arduous task of inking. I'm attempting digital inks, though it's making me miss my Tombos something fierce. I feel like I'm deadening the energy of my drawings too much. I'm sure I'll eventually loosen up, but how many pages will suffer before I do?

"PLAS JOINS ARCHIE'S BOWLING LEAGUE!"

2010-02-24T01:29:00.000-08:00

I love the fact that I keep coming up with episode ideas even though the show didn't get picked up...5 years ago.

BLAST FROM THE PAST...

2010-02-24T00:31:00.000-08:00

I was at Target the other day, when I saw this 3-pack. I couldn't believe my eyes. Really!? They made NEW toys of possibly the most racist, unPC 'tokens' in the Superfriends (well, depends how you lean on Jace and Jan's sexual orientation). Foregoing my recent embargo on purchasing any more toys, I sort of used my son as justification. Plus, I loved that none of them wear pants.

I did this drawing out of pure giddiness.

"WHAT??"

2010-02-23T17:25:00.000-08:00

Funny story. Swear to God.

I'm so sorry for this.