This "brief" post is starting to get a bit wordy; I guess it really has been WAY too long since I've done this. Maybe I'll talk more about Clive later... for now, click the thumbnail for a larger view:
Monday, December 29, 2008
Clive-7.7
Clive-7.7 is the android assistant (and creation) of Aristotle Cooke, captain of The Argus. The cranky captain had no desire to ship out with a human crew, but was intelligent enough to know he couldn't run his vessel alone. As a master inventor, programmer, and engineer, Cooke felt that designing his own co-pilot was the answer. Built purely to do the heavy-lifting (literally and figuratively), Clive-7.7 ended up becoming far more human than Aristotle had ever imagined.
This "brief" post is starting to get a bit wordy; I guess it really has been WAY too long since I've done this. Maybe I'll talk more about Clive later... for now, click the thumbnail for a larger view:
This "brief" post is starting to get a bit wordy; I guess it really has been WAY too long since I've done this. Maybe I'll talk more about Clive later... for now, click the thumbnail for a larger view:
Wednesday, December 17, 2008
Ms. Hunter
Not much of a sketch for tonight, but to try to kick myself back into the habit of posting regularly, here's a quick drawing I did of Ms. Hunter from my old Commander X comics. Haven't drawn her in awhile, but I'm very happy with how it turned out.
Click the thumbnail for a larger view:
Click the thumbnail for a larger view:
Sunday, December 14, 2008
Tumblestock
... a name known far and wide, a name that has become synonymous with primal action and raw machismo. Men wish to adventure with him, and women wish to "adventure" with him.
TUMBLESTOCK
Yes, he's a dwarf. Yes, his gear sucks and he spends more time mining and sleeping than fighting. When he DOES fight, though... LOOK OUT.
Also, he has a wicked-sweet hat.
Click the thumbnail for a larger view.
TUMBLESTOCK
Yes, he's a dwarf. Yes, his gear sucks and he spends more time mining and sleeping than fighting. When he DOES fight, though... LOOK OUT.
Also, he has a wicked-sweet hat.
Click the thumbnail for a larger view.
Friday, July 18, 2008
Dumbstruck
Our midnight showing of "The Dark Knight" let out a little over two hours ago. Everyone's safe at home now; sadly, some of us have work in the morning so there won't be much sleep to be had. Also, it's nearly 4:45am as I write this, so forgive the incoherence and rambling.
I really can't find the words to describe this film. Everybody who knows me is used to me getting crazy over these comic book movies (thank you for indulging me). Most of you know what a big Batman fan I am by now.
This movie blew me away.
I don't know what else to say. This is a pointless blog post. I just can't get over it.
I really can't find the words to describe this film. Everybody who knows me is used to me getting crazy over these comic book movies (thank you for indulging me). Most of you know what a big Batman fan I am by now.
This movie blew me away.
I don't know what else to say. This is a pointless blog post. I just can't get over it.
Wednesday, July 16, 2008
Wednesday, July 2, 2008
KNEEL
... because that is what one does before Zod. The rogue Kryptonian general and nemesis of Superman is probably best known from his appearance in Superman II but he's been around a bit longer than that. Like Lex Luthor and Dr. Doom, Zod speaks to my appreciation for arrogant, intelligent, cold & calculating super-villains.
There's probably something profoundly wrong with me.
There's probably something profoundly wrong with me.
Wednesday, June 25, 2008
The Femme Fatale
Another attempt at drawing a convincing (in my own style, anyway) female character; this time, the classic femme fatale. Hopefully it worked out alright... I think this is the first time I've drawn lipstick correctly...
Wednesday, June 18, 2008
"Alphonse Wotan"
This extremely nervous young man took passage on The Argus shortly after Captain Aristotle Cooke hired Thomas Deckard and Kimiko to work as the ship's crew & protectors. The secrets behind the man known as "Alphonse Wotan" have yet to be revealed... hopefully he's nothing like Arcturus...
Monday, June 16, 2008
Not a Bad Bug to Catch, All Things Considered...
Jaime asked me to whip something up for her library's summer reading program this year. Ego-maniac that I am, I was only to happy to help. I think it turned out pretty well, so hopefully she won't mind me showing it off here...
Thursday, June 12, 2008
Arcturus Wotan
Another "colorful character" from the life of Aristotle Cooke and, more specifically, The Riders in the Black. This one's even in color!
Not much has been revealed about Arcturus Wotan yet. His shabby attire is a disguise, hiding his connections to (and participation in) the wealth and power of organized crime. He's an information broker, a gangster, and a skeaze. His intel is usually good and he'll seldom stab you in the back, and the money is often decent... what he has in store for Cooke & Crew this time remains to be seen.
Also, a Blast from Cooke's Past:
Thomas Deckard
Festus D. Zuniga
Not much has been revealed about Arcturus Wotan yet. His shabby attire is a disguise, hiding his connections to (and participation in) the wealth and power of organized crime. He's an information broker, a gangster, and a skeaze. His intel is usually good and he'll seldom stab you in the back, and the money is often decent... what he has in store for Cooke & Crew this time remains to be seen.
Also, a Blast from Cooke's Past:
Thomas Deckard
Festus D. Zuniga
Saturday, May 31, 2008
Mortimer Menlo
Today's (colored) sketch is of Mortimer Menlo, famed gadgeteer and technologist. Mortimer's talents have often been employed in service to Her Majesty, Queen Victoria, in the defense of the British Empire and her colonies abroad. He served as technical adviser to the Thirty-Eighth Armored Zeppelin Division during the attack of the Venusian Space Pirettes; he also worked with the Department of Industrial Liqui-Vapor Engineering in the refinement and implementation of the Steam Widget.
It was not until his apprenticeship with master scientist Alistair P. Runcible, however, that the journeyman inventor would truly achieve greatness. Those stories, however, are still yet to be told...
It was not until his apprenticeship with master scientist Alistair P. Runcible, however, that the journeyman inventor would truly achieve greatness. Those stories, however, are still yet to be told...
Wednesday, May 28, 2008
Malicious or Misunderstood?
I haven't quite decided yet.
Even though I almost never actually end up CREATING any of them, I always have a handful of projects rattling around in my head. Right now I'm working on something that would involve this character as an antagonist for the main character. He's not human (obviously), but not an alien either... and whether or not he's a "bad guy" or just a guy in a bad situation I've yet to decide.
Guess I should finish the main character first... eh, anyway. Here's today's sketch.
Even though I almost never actually end up CREATING any of them, I always have a handful of projects rattling around in my head. Right now I'm working on something that would involve this character as an antagonist for the main character. He's not human (obviously), but not an alien either... and whether or not he's a "bad guy" or just a guy in a bad situation I've yet to decide.
Guess I should finish the main character first... eh, anyway. Here's today's sketch.
Monday, May 19, 2008
People Are Strange...
... especially when you have no idea who you're drawing. Seriously, who are these people? One of them isn't really even a "people" at all.
At least I drew SOMETHING, I suppose.
At least I drew SOMETHING, I suppose.
Monday, May 12, 2008
This Totally Happened
... well, not really. I don't think a single one of you would be surprised if it did, though.
Tuesday, May 6, 2008
This City DESERVES A Better Class of Criminal
... and I'm gonna draw it for 'em!
So, yeah, saw Iron Man this weekend. Twice. It was completely excellent both times. Part of what made it so great was the righteous trailer for The Dark Knight that showed before both showings. So, since Iron Man's armor is a pain to draw AND since I'm a bigger Bat-fan anyway... here's my take on the "new" clown-prince of crime.
... why so serious?
So, yeah, saw Iron Man this weekend. Twice. It was completely excellent both times. Part of what made it so great was the righteous trailer for The Dark Knight that showed before both showings. So, since Iron Man's armor is a pain to draw AND since I'm a bigger Bat-fan anyway... here's my take on the "new" clown-prince of crime.
... why so serious?
Tuesday, April 29, 2008
My Favorite Religious Holiday
Alright, this is (once again) a "not-actually-a-sketch" post... but you get a (sort-of) complete comic instead, so hopefully that works for you. This Saturday, May 3rd is the greatest holiday EVER, better than even International Talk-Like-A-Pirate Day. Yes, this weekend is:
FREE COMIC BOOK DAY.
... so make sure you find your local comic book shop and VISIT IT. Most shops have free comics, free games, stuff for kids, and all sorts of other fun. So you should all use the shop locator and get out there. I won't be able to celebrate this year, since SOMEBODY had to get MARRIED that day.
le sigh
Hopefully I'll have a new sketch up soon... in the meantime, enjoy this blast-from-the-past and don't forget FCBD!
NOTE: As I'm sure most of you will notice, the date in the comic is wrong... FCBD is Saturday, May 3, 2008.
FREE COMIC BOOK DAY.
... so make sure you find your local comic book shop and VISIT IT. Most shops have free comics, free games, stuff for kids, and all sorts of other fun. So you should all use the shop locator and get out there. I won't be able to celebrate this year, since SOMEBODY had to get MARRIED that day.
le sigh
Hopefully I'll have a new sketch up soon... in the meantime, enjoy this blast-from-the-past and don't forget FCBD!
NOTE: As I'm sure most of you will notice, the date in the comic is wrong... FCBD is Saturday, May 3, 2008.
Saturday, April 26, 2008
Bartleby Garreck
From the "Tales of Ravendrake..."
At the age of twenty-six Bartleby Garreck left his childhood home behind and set out to explore the larger world. He carried in his pack his collection of picture-pamphlets (featuring the adventures of the great monster-killer W’ohe’T’zarre the Wily), which he often re-reads for inspiration and “guidance.” His most sincere hope is that someday he, too, will be the subject of tales and legends to inspire and amaze.
Bartleby is naïve and hopeful, but not entirely unskilled. He is eager to please those he adventures with and often follows their lead with little question. On occasion he has been known to step up and try to lead himself, but these situations are rare. His equipment is mostly second-hand and not always of high-quality. His pouches are filled with small charms and random souvenirs, including a set of tiny stones carved with ancient eldritch inscriptions. Bartleby has no idea what they are or what they were originally for, but he strongly believes they bring him luck. What kind of luck, however, varies greatly from situation to situation.
At the age of twenty-six Bartleby Garreck left his childhood home behind and set out to explore the larger world. He carried in his pack his collection of picture-pamphlets (featuring the adventures of the great monster-killer W’ohe’T’zarre the Wily), which he often re-reads for inspiration and “guidance.” His most sincere hope is that someday he, too, will be the subject of tales and legends to inspire and amaze.
Bartleby is naïve and hopeful, but not entirely unskilled. He is eager to please those he adventures with and often follows their lead with little question. On occasion he has been known to step up and try to lead himself, but these situations are rare. His equipment is mostly second-hand and not always of high-quality. His pouches are filled with small charms and random souvenirs, including a set of tiny stones carved with ancient eldritch inscriptions. Bartleby has no idea what they are or what they were originally for, but he strongly believes they bring him luck. What kind of luck, however, varies greatly from situation to situation.
Saturday, April 19, 2008
Earth-38, Part 7
Wildcat never set out to be a hero... at least, not a costumed hero. As a United States Marine he was already doing good and protecting people. That would have been enough for him; it wasn't enough for some members of his platoon. They used their training to commit a series of heinous crimes and then covertly framed the young Corporal. Facing a court marshall for actions that were not his, he donned a home-made costume and fought to clear his name. A local newspaper reporter caught sight of this new vigilante in action and wrote that the masked-man fought like a wild cat: Brutal, swift, and efficient. The name stuck.
Wildcat was soon asked to join the Justice League, which the supposed-loner was (surprisingly) happy to do. He acts as a trainer and mentor to some of the less combat-experienced heroes and is only too eager to dive into any knuckle-dusters the League finds themselves in.
Also, be sure to check out the other heroes of Earth-38:
Wildcat was soon asked to join the Justice League, which the supposed-loner was (surprisingly) happy to do. He acts as a trainer and mentor to some of the less combat-experienced heroes and is only too eager to dive into any knuckle-dusters the League finds themselves in.
Also, be sure to check out the other heroes of Earth-38:
Wednesday, April 16, 2008
Earth-38, Part 6
The Maiden of Magic herself, Zatanna.
Although she isn't often able to work directly with the Justice League of Earth-38 due to distance ( Nanda Parbat is considered "too far North" even from a moon base!), not a single member of the team would ever consider her less than a full-fledged member. Her magical and creative talents have served the League well on many occasions; when the threat is mystical in nature, they know who to call.
Starman especially, though, wishes she could spend more time on the moon... looking out at the stars with him...
Also, be sure to check out the other heroes of Earth-38:
Although she isn't often able to work directly with the Justice League of Earth-38 due to distance ( Nanda Parbat is considered "too far North" even from a moon base!), not a single member of the team would ever consider her less than a full-fledged member. Her magical and creative talents have served the League well on many occasions; when the threat is mystical in nature, they know who to call.
Starman especially, though, wishes she could spend more time on the moon... looking out at the stars with him...
Also, be sure to check out the other heroes of Earth-38:
Saturday, April 12, 2008
Secret Agent Man
Wozar is a Professional, so he can't run around in a cape or cracked battle-armor ALL the time. Sometimes a more subtle approach is warranted... if you can be subtle while still slinging a broadsword.
Monday, April 7, 2008
Byron Occulto
Little is known of the man called Byron Occulto; most scholars agree, however, that "Byron Occulto" is most likely NOT his real name. The "Bumpkin of the Bizarre" was first seen wandering the back-roads of the rural American south in the mid-1950's. When that-which-could-not-be-explained appeared, Byron would stroll from the shadows with a few words of down-home wisdom and the proper ancient incantations to send it back to whatever dark dimensional rupture it first crawled out of.
Byron disappeared for many years; most folks assumed his work to have been finished. It is only recently that he has resurfaced to bring together some of Earth's greatest heroes to battle some unknown coming evil. His comrades include The Stinging Spade, Mr. Quickster (formerly of The Professionals), The Azure Fletcher, Golden Bowman, and more. For now Occulto remains content to keep himself in the shadows; but soon the evil they face may draw him out to display his awesome mystic powers...
Byron disappeared for many years; most folks assumed his work to have been finished. It is only recently that he has resurfaced to bring together some of Earth's greatest heroes to battle some unknown coming evil. His comrades include The Stinging Spade, Mr. Quickster (formerly of The Professionals), The Azure Fletcher, Golden Bowman, and more. For now Occulto remains content to keep himself in the shadows; but soon the evil they face may draw him out to display his awesome mystic powers...
Thursday, April 3, 2008
A Credit to the Force
... the Police Force, that is. He's grizzled. He's hard-boiled. He's tough. He's rugged. He's every other awesome adjective you can think of. The perps fear him, his fellow officers revere him, and the ladies want to be near him.
He's Detective Rick Blazer, the greatest cop who EVER LIVED*.
You'll be hearing more about him soon. BE READY.
*Inside my head, as inspired by this video game cop.
He's Detective Rick Blazer, the greatest cop who EVER LIVED*.
You'll be hearing more about him soon. BE READY.
*Inside my head, as inspired by this video game cop.
Tuesday, April 1, 2008
A Marvelous Epiphany
I've had a major breakthrough today, and I'd like to share it with all of you.
Lately I've been doing a lot of soul-searching, asking a lot of important, heavy questions about my life and what I'm doing with it. Answers were few and far between... until this morning. When I woke up this morning, I finally realized why I was so existentially unhappy. I now know what I need to do.
I need to stop reading DC Comics. They suck.
Batman, Superman, Wonder Woman... Green Lantern, Martian Manhunter, Aquaman... they've all failed me. (Well, maybe not Aquaman). Everybody dies, and then isn't dead, or they fight, and then they're buddies, or something. It's all so juvenile.
Not like Marvel Comics.
They're so much more mature and realistic: Their heroes face REAL problems and REAL emotions! Captain America died and he stayed DEAD. So that's it. I'm joining The Merry Marvel Marching Society. I've been standing straighter and walking prouder all morning as I've carted my DC comic books to the trash.
To celebrate, here's a sketch of one of Marvel's greatest anti-heroes, direct from the grim-and-gritty late 1980's: Venom. EXCELSIOR!
Lately I've been doing a lot of soul-searching, asking a lot of important, heavy questions about my life and what I'm doing with it. Answers were few and far between... until this morning. When I woke up this morning, I finally realized why I was so existentially unhappy. I now know what I need to do.
I need to stop reading DC Comics. They suck.
Batman, Superman, Wonder Woman... Green Lantern, Martian Manhunter, Aquaman... they've all failed me. (Well, maybe not Aquaman). Everybody dies, and then isn't dead, or they fight, and then they're buddies, or something. It's all so juvenile.
Not like Marvel Comics.
They're so much more mature and realistic: Their heroes face REAL problems and REAL emotions! Captain America died and he stayed DEAD. So that's it. I'm joining The Merry Marvel Marching Society. I've been standing straighter and walking prouder all morning as I've carted my DC comic books to the trash.
To celebrate, here's a sketch of one of Marvel's greatest anti-heroes, direct from the grim-and-gritty late 1980's: Venom. EXCELSIOR!
Monday, March 24, 2008
Thursday, March 20, 2008
A Wrinkle... ON TIME!
Wow... I actually posted a sketch on-time, AND it's of a female character, AND I'm happy with the results. Taken separately, these events might not mean anything. Taken together, and all from me, they may signal the End Times.
I'm really sorry.
Anyway, I've been reading A Wrinkle in Time again during brief breaks at work, and I'm remembering how great it is. I've read it before, and it's not that I "forgot" it was enjoyable or something... somehow I'm just getting more out of it this time. I don't know why.
I was thinking about the characters and the environments and so-on, and I wanted to try to draw Meg (Those of you who have read the book can tell me if I did a decent job). I wanted her to look slightly distressed, since that's where I am currently in the novel. Click on the thumbnail for a larger view... quickly, before I bring about the end of the world with my rare flash of responsibility:
I'm really sorry.
Anyway, I've been reading A Wrinkle in Time again during brief breaks at work, and I'm remembering how great it is. I've read it before, and it's not that I "forgot" it was enjoyable or something... somehow I'm just getting more out of it this time. I don't know why.
I was thinking about the characters and the environments and so-on, and I wanted to try to draw Meg (Those of you who have read the book can tell me if I did a decent job). I wanted her to look slightly distressed, since that's where I am currently in the novel. Click on the thumbnail for a larger view... quickly, before I bring about the end of the world with my rare flash of responsibility:
Tuesday, March 18, 2008
Yikes!
Yet another random sketch out of nowhere. Sometimes it's nice just to play with the smooth lines and wacky curves and see what happens. My style is so cartoony, and I fight against it so often, it's also nice to just go with it and see what I come up with.
Someday I'll sit down, give in, and dump the sci-fi action and super-heroics (at least temporarily) and just create a silly, random cartoony-thing. Like THIS. They're fun and easy to draw... ah well, I'm rambling. Take a look, leave your comments, and I'll do my best to post again before the week's out.
Someday I'll sit down, give in, and dump the sci-fi action and super-heroics (at least temporarily) and just create a silly, random cartoony-thing. Like THIS. They're fun and easy to draw... ah well, I'm rambling. Take a look, leave your comments, and I'll do my best to post again before the week's out.
Wednesday, March 12, 2008
Dragon, Forced
... well, not exactly. I just thought the title was semi-clever given my recent taste in over-the-top music videos and I WAS too lazy to actually finish the sketch completely. Although, in my defense, I did run out of paper...
Alright, enough excuses.
This sketch is a slightly updated version of a character I created for a point & click stlye video game in high school that never happened... and then for an animation that never happened... and finally for a childrens' book, which DID happen. I might have to do something with him again in the future, he's fun to draw; I just need to draw his legs next time.
Click the thumbnail for a larger view.
Alright, enough excuses.
This sketch is a slightly updated version of a character I created for a point & click stlye video game in high school that never happened... and then for an animation that never happened... and finally for a childrens' book, which DID happen. I might have to do something with him again in the future, he's fun to draw; I just need to draw his legs next time.
Click the thumbnail for a larger view.
Tuesday, March 11, 2008
MY HEAD ASPLODE
Holy cow, this may be the coolest thing EVER:
Commander X & Crew: THE GAME
I'll post my silly sketch later. I want to play this some more before work...
I'll post my silly sketch later. I want to play this some more before work...
Saturday, March 8, 2008
Sunday, March 2, 2008
Huh?
Gotta be honest: This sketch is NOT a new one I drew this week. I got busy, put it off, lame excuse #3, lame excuse #4... and so on. Today I tried to think of something to draw and just wasn't feelin' it, so I'm not going to force it. Thanks for bearing with me; I'll have plenty of new things up this week as I approach The Final Deadline (not to be confused with The Final Countdown).
As for this sketch... I really have NO idea what I was drawing. I just enjoyed playing with the lines and the shapes that made this bizarre psychic alien come to life. I may include him in The Professionals, or not; who knows? For today, enjoy this weird and wacky sketch and expect more in the next few days.
As for this sketch... I really have NO idea what I was drawing. I just enjoyed playing with the lines and the shapes that made this bizarre psychic alien come to life. I may include him in The Professionals, or not; who knows? For today, enjoy this weird and wacky sketch and expect more in the next few days.
Saturday, March 1, 2008
Earth-38, Part 5
It's been a little while since I drew one of the heroes of Earth-38, and March 2 seemed like a good time to get back to it.
The Japan-based hero I drew today is a mystery to the people of Earth-38, and even to some of its heroes. He's most often seen in Kyoto, but has been sighted as far away as Osaka. He strikes from the shadows, sometimes silently, sometimes with a ear-piercing scream; he operates only in the darkness of the night.
Most people believe he's only a myth, meant to scare the superstitious and the cowardly. He wears a garish bat-demon mask, hurls wicked shuriken at his foes, and is a master martial artist and swordsman. He is spoken of with respect (and possibly fear) by the highest-ranking members of the Yakuza. They refer to him as The Bat-Demon, or "battoman..." the Justice League of Earth-38 refer to him simply as: The Bat-Man.
COMPLETELY UNRELATED NOTE: Happy Birthday, Ninja.
Also, be sure to check out the other heroes of Earth-38:
The Japan-based hero I drew today is a mystery to the people of Earth-38, and even to some of its heroes. He's most often seen in Kyoto, but has been sighted as far away as Osaka. He strikes from the shadows, sometimes silently, sometimes with a ear-piercing scream; he operates only in the darkness of the night.
Most people believe he's only a myth, meant to scare the superstitious and the cowardly. He wears a garish bat-demon mask, hurls wicked shuriken at his foes, and is a master martial artist and swordsman. He is spoken of with respect (and possibly fear) by the highest-ranking members of the Yakuza. They refer to him as The Bat-Demon, or "battoman..." the Justice League of Earth-38 refer to him simply as: The Bat-Man.
COMPLETELY UNRELATED NOTE: Happy Birthday, Ninja.
Also, be sure to check out the other heroes of Earth-38:
Tuesday, February 26, 2008
Festus D. Zuniga
I love how every once in awhile, a sketch will come out of pretty much nowhere. This one isn't EXACTLY like that, but it's pretty close.
I've been trying to design a possible nemesis for Captain Aristotle Cooke forawhile: A stone-cold strategist and cool thinker like Cooke... with his own "moral" code, sort of similar to Cooke... but unlike Cooke, this guy is a ruthless killer. I don't have too many characters that are really THAT evil (which is probably good), but I've been playing with ideas for one. Yesterday he emerged... while I was preparing to work with young children.
Sigh.
Don't worry, I put this sketch (and any thoughts of creating evil people) away before the kiddies sat down. After work I finished him up though, and aside from a strong resemblance to a smooth-headed Klingon, I think he looks pretty wicked. I guess we'll see if this pitiless bounty hunter, part-time assasin, and former war profiteer takes any jobs in the future.
I've been trying to design a possible nemesis for Captain Aristotle Cooke forawhile: A stone-cold strategist and cool thinker like Cooke... with his own "moral" code, sort of similar to Cooke... but unlike Cooke, this guy is a ruthless killer. I don't have too many characters that are really THAT evil (which is probably good), but I've been playing with ideas for one. Yesterday he emerged... while I was preparing to work with young children.
Sigh.
Don't worry, I put this sketch (and any thoughts of creating evil people) away before the kiddies sat down. After work I finished him up though, and aside from a strong resemblance to a smooth-headed Klingon, I think he looks pretty wicked. I guess we'll see if this pitiless bounty hunter, part-time assasin, and former war profiteer takes any jobs in the future.
Sunday, February 24, 2008
Bada-Bing
One of the lesser-known members of famed super-group The Professionals appears today: The Atomic Suit. I've tried a few times to draw him, but he always ends up proving more of a challenge than I anticipate when I first sit down. Tonight's drawing was no exception, but for once I'm pleased enough with the result to share it. Fedoras are NOT easy to draw, by the way.
The Atomic Suit is a wise-guy, but not THAT wise. Although he's not always the "goodest" of the do-gooders, he's a valued member of the team and certainly holds his own when the going gets tough: The hi-tech circuitry and space-age fibers woven into his fantastic Italian suit allow him to fly, absorb energy, and fire blasts of intense power at his foes.
Click the thumbnail for a larger view:
The Atomic Suit is a wise-guy, but not THAT wise. Although he's not always the "goodest" of the do-gooders, he's a valued member of the team and certainly holds his own when the going gets tough: The hi-tech circuitry and space-age fibers woven into his fantastic Italian suit allow him to fly, absorb energy, and fire blasts of intense power at his foes.
Click the thumbnail for a larger view:
Saturday, February 23, 2008
Adventures in Confusion!
... because, apparently, it's just more fun to draw Commander X as slightly perplexed. Maybe it's because the character confuses (and surprises) me so often. The Commander has been my "flagship" character for years and drawing him has taught me quite a bit about creating comics. There's still so much to learn, though; not the least of which is his TRUE character. I seem to change him around constantly, which doesn't do much for his stories. That's one reason I haven't drawn too many of them lately.
I'll figure it out... eventually.
In the meantime, I'm much happier with this sketch of Commander X than I am of the last one I did; click the thumbnail below for a larger view:
Check back for another sketch tomorrow: I've still got to do one more for this week to keep on schedule!
I'll figure it out... eventually.
In the meantime, I'm much happier with this sketch of Commander X than I am of the last one I did; click the thumbnail below for a larger view:
Check back for another sketch tomorrow: I've still got to do one more for this week to keep on schedule!
Wednesday, February 20, 2008
The Meta-Human Millionaire
I'm a bit tardy this week, so I'm skippin' directly to the fully-colored image. I'll still post at least two more pencil sketches, but I've been working on this one for a bit anyway and I'm excited to post it.
Ever since I finished my Wozar "action" shot, I've been planning to give the other heroes from The Professionals that sort of special-effects treatment. Naturally, the first one I considered was Fab CEO. This is NOT that image (I'm still working on it mentally), but I did a quick sketch of him last week at work to get back into the groove of the character (and he's certainly groovy, I hope you'll agree). That sketch (on a 3x5 note card) turned into an inked-and-colored study in FABULOUSNESS which I now present to you. My friend Jim always knew how to create fun characters and this one is still my favorite. Enjoy this "classic clipping" from an old issue of The Professionals, and watch for a high-powered image of the Meta-Human Millionaire coming soon.
Ever since I finished my Wozar "action" shot, I've been planning to give the other heroes from The Professionals that sort of special-effects treatment. Naturally, the first one I considered was Fab CEO. This is NOT that image (I'm still working on it mentally), but I did a quick sketch of him last week at work to get back into the groove of the character (and he's certainly groovy, I hope you'll agree). That sketch (on a 3x5 note card) turned into an inked-and-colored study in FABULOUSNESS which I now present to you. My friend Jim always knew how to create fun characters and this one is still my favorite. Enjoy this "classic clipping" from an old issue of The Professionals, and watch for a high-powered image of the Meta-Human Millionaire coming soon.
Saturday, February 16, 2008
Exhibit 1066-N.01a
Artist's Rendition; Original Undergoing Restoration
Oak wood and iron shovel/voltaic string instrument
Between 900-1280 AD
Origin unknown (presumed Great Britain)
This piece remains a mystery to modern-day scholars and archaeologists. Although it clearly started its life as a simple garden tool, it was modified by a skilled craftsperson to become something much more. The iron of the shovel head is much denser and tougher than most iron alloys used during this time period; additional components have been welded and/or bolted to it as well. A simple galvanic plate in a flat box on the underside of the shovel provides limited power for musical performances. The sound quality of the instrument is of a high caliber even by today's standards. Some experts have termed the small pivoted extension below the six strings a "whammy bar" (there is great academic controversy on this point). Chemical analysis has shown that the source of the discoloration beneath this "whammy bar" is a dried fluid of some organic origin; this may possibly be bloody evidence of some long-ago battle.
Aside from the damaged etching "Narw..k" on the underside of the shovel's handle, there is little evidence of the item's creator, its owner(s), or its ultimate origin.
This item donated to the British Museum 4 December, 1893 by the famed explorer Sir Phineas Meriwether Hornsby IV, Air-Colonel Third-Class (Ret.) of Her Majesty's Thirty-Eighth Armored Zeppelin Division
Oak wood and iron shovel/voltaic string instrument
Between 900-1280 AD
Origin unknown (presumed Great Britain)
This piece remains a mystery to modern-day scholars and archaeologists. Although it clearly started its life as a simple garden tool, it was modified by a skilled craftsperson to become something much more. The iron of the shovel head is much denser and tougher than most iron alloys used during this time period; additional components have been welded and/or bolted to it as well. A simple galvanic plate in a flat box on the underside of the shovel provides limited power for musical performances. The sound quality of the instrument is of a high caliber even by today's standards. Some experts have termed the small pivoted extension below the six strings a "whammy bar" (there is great academic controversy on this point). Chemical analysis has shown that the source of the discoloration beneath this "whammy bar" is a dried fluid of some organic origin; this may possibly be bloody evidence of some long-ago battle.
Aside from the damaged etching "Narw..k" on the underside of the shovel's handle, there is little evidence of the item's creator, its owner(s), or its ultimate origin.
This item donated to the British Museum 4 December, 1893 by the famed explorer Sir Phineas Meriwether Hornsby IV, Air-Colonel Third-Class (Ret.) of Her Majesty's Thirty-Eighth Armored Zeppelin Division
Thursday, February 14, 2008
Ain't That A Kick In The Head?
Man, I have been having WAY too much fun today.
I don't know what the deal is; normally this holiday bums me out. I've been WAITING for it to bum me out. Somehow, I've ended up in this crazy state of euphoria. Most of which I'm currently attributing to Whitesnake. This is seriously the funniest Valentine's Day I've ever had. I'm barely even gonna mention St. Valentine's Day Massacre like I normally do every year. This year I have Big Plans.
I created a fully-penciled, -inked, and -colored piece of "art" today. Most of this was done while listening to crazy 80's hair metal bands and so-bad-they're-good "love" songs. After I post this, I'm goin' downstairs... I'm gonna fire up the Guitar Hero III... and I'm gonna blast every cheezy rock ballad that game has. Then I'm gonna go to work (not my favorite part of these Big Plans, but whatever). Then I'm gonna get some Chinese food, come home, and watch a gangster movie. The entire time all of this is happening I will have the biggest grin on my face, mainly because I'm dodgin' this guy (as the J. Giles band once said: Love Stinks):
Quoth Cluracan of the Fair Folk: "It's amazing how much one can accomplish in an evening, if one is willing to expend a little effort, and to walk briskly."
I don't know what the deal is; normally this holiday bums me out. I've been WAITING for it to bum me out. Somehow, I've ended up in this crazy state of euphoria. Most of which I'm currently attributing to Whitesnake. This is seriously the funniest Valentine's Day I've ever had. I'm barely even gonna mention St. Valentine's Day Massacre like I normally do every year. This year I have Big Plans.
I created a fully-penciled, -inked, and -colored piece of "art" today. Most of this was done while listening to crazy 80's hair metal bands and so-bad-they're-good "love" songs. After I post this, I'm goin' downstairs... I'm gonna fire up the Guitar Hero III... and I'm gonna blast every cheezy rock ballad that game has. Then I'm gonna go to work (not my favorite part of these Big Plans, but whatever). Then I'm gonna get some Chinese food, come home, and watch a gangster movie. The entire time all of this is happening I will have the biggest grin on my face, mainly because I'm dodgin' this guy (as the J. Giles band once said: Love Stinks):
Quoth Cluracan of the Fair Folk: "It's amazing how much one can accomplish in an evening, if one is willing to expend a little effort, and to walk briskly."
Monday, February 11, 2008
The Helm of Nabu
Today's hero (from regular-ol'-boring Earth-1, or whatever it's called now) is Doctor Fate. I'll let Wikipedia sum it up, since it does it so well:
Doctor Fate is a succession of DC Comics sorcerers who also generally function as superheroes. The original version was created by writer Gardner Fox and artist Howard Sherman, and first appeared in More Fun Comics #55 (May 1940).
This was Kent Nelson, the best known and longest used Doctor Fate. He was the son of an archaeologist who died discovering the tomb of the mystical being Nabu [Hence the title of this post -- Ed.]. The orphaned boy was trained by the ancient entity in the arts of magic.
Of course, as a kid, I didn't know any of that. I just knew that Doctor Fate had a wicked-sweet costume and did karate-chops on purple demon-squids or something.
Below is my rendition of the hero, sticking relatively close to the original. They redesign the costumes every other week anyway, so I'm sure it's close enough.
Click on the thumbnail for a larger view.
Doctor Fate is a succession of DC Comics sorcerers who also generally function as superheroes. The original version was created by writer Gardner Fox and artist Howard Sherman, and first appeared in More Fun Comics #55 (May 1940).
This was Kent Nelson, the best known and longest used Doctor Fate. He was the son of an archaeologist who died discovering the tomb of the mystical being Nabu [Hence the title of this post -- Ed.]. The orphaned boy was trained by the ancient entity in the arts of magic.
Of course, as a kid, I didn't know any of that. I just knew that Doctor Fate had a wicked-sweet costume and did karate-chops on purple demon-squids or something.
Below is my rendition of the hero, sticking relatively close to the original. They redesign the costumes every other week anyway, so I'm sure it's close enough.
Click on the thumbnail for a larger view.
Sunday, February 10, 2008
What's My Motivation In This Scene?
... you folks are, among other things.
Alright, no sketch tonight, but let me "lay it on the line." I've been frustrated with myself and my art lately. Haven't been doin' much lately (as I'm sure you've noticed) and it bugs me. I was chatting with a good friend this weekend about doing some comics or something, and I realized the following
TRUE FACTS:
I don't like to brag. It makes me feel like a jerk. But all of you, my friends and family, have been so supportive I feel like I can and should. I also feel I should do something with that support.
I've been saving some cash and thinking about buying a new computer (RAPID TOPIC CHANGE). I'd like to use it for art, drawing with a tablet and doing more with PhotoShop and maybe other high-end programs. So I'm making a deal with myself and with all of you, if you'll help me.
I want to post at least THREE new drawings a week (two pencil sketches and one full-color image). Starting tomorrow, Monday February 11. I'll keep this up for a solid four weeks. If I can do that, I'll buy myself a new computer for my birthday.
This post is getting REALLY long, so I'll try to wrap it up. I'd like to ask all of you to keep me on the straight-and-narrow and make sure I do this. Comment and critique if you like; make your requests for sketches; give me grief in person. Whatever. I just miss drawing and I think NOT drawing is makin' me crazier than normal (which I'm sure you all know is really sayin' something). I'm hoping this will help motivate me and that I can have some fun in the process.
Alright, thanks for listening to me rant. Expect a drawing tomorrow (or later today, depending on when you read this). Thanks again to all of you who support me and put up with me.
Alright, no sketch tonight, but let me "lay it on the line." I've been frustrated with myself and my art lately. Haven't been doin' much lately (as I'm sure you've noticed) and it bugs me. I was chatting with a good friend this weekend about doing some comics or something, and I realized the following
TRUE FACTS:
- I haven't posted a new comic at BrandXCreations.com since December '06. Yikes.
- I haven't scripted (let alone DRAWN) a comic in nearly that long.
- My penciling, my inking, and my coloring have IMPROVED. A lot.
I don't like to brag. It makes me feel like a jerk. But all of you, my friends and family, have been so supportive I feel like I can and should. I also feel I should do something with that support.
I've been saving some cash and thinking about buying a new computer (RAPID TOPIC CHANGE). I'd like to use it for art, drawing with a tablet and doing more with PhotoShop and maybe other high-end programs. So I'm making a deal with myself and with all of you, if you'll help me.
I want to post at least THREE new drawings a week (two pencil sketches and one full-color image). Starting tomorrow, Monday February 11. I'll keep this up for a solid four weeks. If I can do that, I'll buy myself a new computer for my birthday.
This post is getting REALLY long, so I'll try to wrap it up. I'd like to ask all of you to keep me on the straight-and-narrow and make sure I do this. Comment and critique if you like; make your requests for sketches; give me grief in person. Whatever. I just miss drawing and I think NOT drawing is makin' me crazier than normal (which I'm sure you all know is really sayin' something). I'm hoping this will help motivate me and that I can have some fun in the process.
Alright, thanks for listening to me rant. Expect a drawing tomorrow (or later today, depending on when you read this). Thanks again to all of you who support me and put up with me.
Friday, February 1, 2008
More of the Folly of Youth...
Ah, some more creations from my younger days, updated and revitalized and made dorkier. Agent Crackshot and The Paladin were the special agents I created when I was in junior high school after my grandfather gave me my first rubber-band gun (it's a wacky story, but it's totally true). They were the head of their own special group of hi-tech espionage agents; they had flying cars and laser guns; they were always on top of every situation; they were everything I thought was cool.
... it was not until years later than I realized I had just re-created Nick Fury and S.H.I.E.L.D.. Oh well.
Anyway, here they are, recently re-drawn and updated. Sometime I may post the original designs (and those for Whiplash), but they're semi-embarassing. So probably not. Click on the thumbnail for a larger view:
... it was not until years later than I realized I had just re-created Nick Fury and S.H.I.E.L.D.. Oh well.
Anyway, here they are, recently re-drawn and updated. Sometime I may post the original designs (and those for Whiplash), but they're semi-embarassing. So probably not. Click on the thumbnail for a larger view:
Wednesday, January 30, 2008
Whip it... but not "good," apparently.
Found this sketch while cleaning my desk at work last night, so rather than post something I'm semi-proud of (which I actually have, believe it or don't)... we'll post this work-in-progress.
When I was in sixth grade, I created a whip-slinging super-hero character named Whiplash. I made a few comics with him in grade school and always played with the idea of his character over the years after, but that's about it. I've often tried to re-design him so I can use him in a slightly-more-serious hero tale; I even "created" a 12-inch action figure version a while back.
(I was going to crop that image a bit more, but then I realized LEGO Indiana Jones & his dad made it into the shot, so I had to leave it as-is.)
Anyway, this sketch is based on the action figure design. The goggles came out more like poindexter glasses than I'd been hoping and he isn't quite as visually dynamic as I'd have liked (which could be why I buried this in my desk), but it's an interesting sketch.
Click the thumbnail for a larger view:
When I was in sixth grade, I created a whip-slinging super-hero character named Whiplash. I made a few comics with him in grade school and always played with the idea of his character over the years after, but that's about it. I've often tried to re-design him so I can use him in a slightly-more-serious hero tale; I even "created" a 12-inch action figure version a while back.
(I was going to crop that image a bit more, but then I realized LEGO Indiana Jones & his dad made it into the shot, so I had to leave it as-is.)
Anyway, this sketch is based on the action figure design. The goggles came out more like poindexter glasses than I'd been hoping and he isn't quite as visually dynamic as I'd have liked (which could be why I buried this in my desk), but it's an interesting sketch.
Click the thumbnail for a larger view:
Sunday, January 27, 2008
Sometimes, I like to draw...
... this is one of those times. It's also one of the few times I actually made an effort to ink and color everything, so, WOW. Crazy.
Last weekend, we all finally got together to game. It had been far too long and it was AWESOME. Instead of the usual role-play stuff, Adam & I went nuts and bought a bunch of HeroScape stuff and played THAT with the gang. It was a blast, and I look forward to doin' it again soon.
The star of the entire thing quickly became Krug. For a tiny little piece of plastic, he was certainly loud and obnoxiously hilarious. He was King of the Mountain; he was a hit with the ladies; he was unstoppable in his Command Center; he was the envy of all the players on the board. I think Eden's army finally killed him (or maybe they killed all my dudes, I don't remember now). Anyway, I knew he had to be immortalized by my pen. Or something.
Click the thumbnail for a larger view... and, if you like,click here to see how we'll roll NEXT weekend.
Last weekend, we all finally got together to game. It had been far too long and it was AWESOME. Instead of the usual role-play stuff, Adam & I went nuts and bought a bunch of HeroScape stuff and played THAT with the gang. It was a blast, and I look forward to doin' it again soon.
The star of the entire thing quickly became Krug. For a tiny little piece of plastic, he was certainly loud and obnoxiously hilarious. He was King of the Mountain; he was a hit with the ladies; he was unstoppable in his Command Center; he was the envy of all the players on the board. I think Eden's army finally killed him (or maybe they killed all my dudes, I don't remember now). Anyway, I knew he had to be immortalized by my pen. Or something.
Click the thumbnail for a larger view... and, if you like,click here to see how we'll roll NEXT weekend.
Monday, January 14, 2008
Earth-38, Part 4
I can't ever keep track of all these new Earths! Apparently I was wrong, Batgirl of Earth-38 is NOT dating Captain Marvel (which some found scandalous anyway); turns out she's currently seeing Plastikman.
Oh, the DRAMA.
Anyway, Plastikman brings great times and great tunes to the Justice League's already-rockin' Moon Base. He prefers to lay down minimalist techno in the classic Detroit style of the early 90's, but he can rock with the best of 'em as well. He always says that if the criminal masterminds ever settle down, he's going to form a rock band with Green Lantern, Starman, and Captain Atom... cruisin' the cosmos in search of sweet licks and epic riffs.
Click the thumbnail below for a larger view.
Oh, the DRAMA.
Anyway, Plastikman brings great times and great tunes to the Justice League's already-rockin' Moon Base. He prefers to lay down minimalist techno in the classic Detroit style of the early 90's, but he can rock with the best of 'em as well. He always says that if the criminal masterminds ever settle down, he's going to form a rock band with Green Lantern, Starman, and Captain Atom... cruisin' the cosmos in search of sweet licks and epic riffs.
Click the thumbnail below for a larger view.
Saturday, January 12, 2008
Special Effects
Well, it took me over two months from initial sketch to finished product (much longer than it should have)... but I'll blame the holidays or work or not working or whatever. Either way, I think it's finally done: The image of Wozar, battle-ravaged and weary, looking to the skies.
I added shadows, which I always do. I then added hilights, which I almost NEVER do... but I'm going to START doing. I love how it came out. The final image with the star field and the eerie lighting actually washes some of it out, but I think it still looks fairly awesome.
Enough jaw-bonin'. Click the thumbnail for a larger view.
EDIT: I took down the crazy slideshow; it was barely visible and the silly thing sucked up bandwidth like there's no tomorrow. Instead, I'm posting this sweet desktop I made myself that, after my staring at it for two days, I'm now convinced is better than the original. Decide for yourselves... IF YOU DARE.
I added shadows, which I always do. I then added hilights, which I almost NEVER do... but I'm going to START doing. I love how it came out. The final image with the star field and the eerie lighting actually washes some of it out, but I think it still looks fairly awesome.
Enough jaw-bonin'. Click the thumbnail for a larger view.
EDIT: I took down the crazy slideshow; it was barely visible and the silly thing sucked up bandwidth like there's no tomorrow. Instead, I'm posting this sweet desktop I made myself that, after my staring at it for two days, I'm now convinced is better than the original. Decide for yourselves... IF YOU DARE.
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