Urban Barbarian

Pitch Art

2012-01-18T12:37:00.000-08:00

Here's a piece of pitch art I drew for a comic book idea created by Jonathan Davis, Andy Bourne and myself. An Action/Spy/Thriller called Operation: Redacted

Hope you dig it, barbarians. CLICK ON THE ABOVE PICTURE FOR THE FULL SIZE VERSION.

Johnny Cash

2012-01-02T08:44:00.000-08:00

Pencil, Ink, iPhone [ camera used as scanner] and Photoshop.

[some]JAZZ

2011-12-05T18:28:00.000-08:00

As the Urbanbarbarian, I knew I probably would get some flack if I went for "All That Jazz" but I figured I could get away with at least "some" Jazz. That's acceptable, right? Truth be told, I do like Jazz.

Conan ROK Panel Mash!

2011-11-17T14:04:00.001-08:00

Click on the image for larger view or see it full size HERE!

Conan Road of Kings #10 Panel Mash!

2011-11-02T11:51:00.001-07:00

DRAW! Magazine Feature!

2011-09-18T20:32:00.000-07:00

The issue features yours truly as the issue’s cover artist. Editor MIKE MANLEY and I talk shop and reveal my most private illustrative secrets!

Then, former Marvel Comics writer and editor DANNY FINGEROTH interviews Emmy award winning writer/artist DEAN HASPIEL, about his creations BILLY DOGMA and the semi-autobiographical STREET CODE, and his pioneering work in personal webcomics with the invention of ACT-I-VATE. Rounding out the issue is another installment of MIKE MANLEY and BRET BLEVINS’ “Comic Art Bootcamp”—this issue dealing with how to convincingly draw hair—and a “Rough Critique” of a newcomer’s work by renowned penciler/inker BOB McLEOD, as well as product and art supply reviews by JAMAR NICHOLAS.

84-page magazine with COLOR
Print version: $7.95 cover price
Digital Edition: $3.95

The issue will debut in bookstores and comic book shops on September 28, and is available for pre-ordering directly from TwoMorrows in both PRINT and DIGITAL EDITIONS (Digital Edition is only $3.95, or free when customers order the Print Edition at 15% off) at this link!

More CONAN

2011-08-24T00:09:00.001-07:00

Click on image above to enlarge

CONAN teaser art

2011-07-19T23:42:00.001-07:00

I can't tell you how excited I am to be working with Roy Thomas on Conan Road of Kings published by Dark Horse Comics.

I've finally found part of a page so I could post some teaser art without giving away any of the story! Roy is the consummate Conan comic book scribe. Working with him is a truly a dream come true for me.

I'm already excited about the next issue! Stay tuned! Click on the image to enlarge.

Captain America!

2011-06-25T14:29:00.000-07:00

2011-06-24T13:59:00.000-07:00

So last night I mistakenly brought my Moleskin Water Color sketch pad to Drink and Draw and luckily a friend had some paint. Logan could use some cords and retro tech dangling from him but other than that... Hey, it was a Drink and Draw sketch - what can you do? I'm lucky I made it home last night.

To see what my other talented pals @ Comic Twart drew for this week's challenge click this link!

Green Lantern: Emerald Warriors Cover #11 & 12 Cover!

2011-06-01T19:39:00.000-07:00

I just started drawing and coloring the new GL:Emerald Warriors covers - starting with #11. I'm not sure if they're gonna be the Variant Editions or the regular ones. But does it matter? Nope! I'm thrilled to be a part of the Green Lantern Team. DC even sent me a Power Ring! Not bad, eh?

Doc Savage Panel Mash

2011-03-18T18:04:00.001-07:00

I wanted to share some the action going on with issue #15 of Doc Savage [ DC Comics ] I'm drawing [ written by the talented JG Jones ] but not give away any story.

Click on the image for the full view.

Hope you dig it! Pulpy stuff!

The Last Emperor, FEDOR!

2011-02-21T17:54:00.000-08:00

Did some work for Fighter's Only magazine the other morning. I have a great deal of respect for Fedor and what he's brought to the sport of MMA - he's one of my all time favorite fighters. Dana White also has my respect. He's an incredible business man and his passion for the UFC has catapulted the sport into the mainstream consciousness. He also is a riot to listen to. He speaks his mind is constantly moving forward. Both of them are polar opposites but they both carry themselves exceptionally well in their own manner.

I was proud to draw them both - I hope they get a kick out of it.

Also: I hope Fedor doesn't retire... Instead, I'd like to see him cut to 205 and DOMINATE! He's a force of nature and I think he's still a powerhouse. Fans are too quick to write the guy off. The HW scene has changed considerably and he's better suited for LHW, in my opinion. Imagine if Anderson Silva moves up a weight class and Fedor moves down for a Super Fight...

Comic Book Page Mash-Up!

2011-02-01T09:41:00.001-08:00

I mashed some panels together that I liked from God Squad, part of Marvel's Chaos War launch.

Drawing Hellstrom was the biggest plus of this book. That and the foliage. I love some outdoors! [ and some Pop Tarts. But you knew that already. ]

The Birds, my Alfred Hitchcock Tribute

2011-01-17T02:23:00.001-08:00

This week was my turn to pick a theme for Comic Twart and I chose "Alfred Hitchcock". It's one of my favorite horror movies of all time and Hitchcock is one of my favorite directors.

Check out this link to see my other mock movie poster too. Then click on the Comic Twart masthead to see the rest of the guys' takes on the subject. You'll notice some of the guys from Deviant Art are Twartists [ all of them very talented & original artists ]!

Jet City Comic Show!

2010-09-14T09:33:00.001-07:00

Heading out to the Jet City Comic Show in a few days! Click the image to enlarge! Hope you like it!

Lone Wolf and Cub

2010-08-21T18:56:00.000-07:00

This was my week over at Comic Twart and I chose Lone Wolf and Cub as my pick.

Check out the link and take a look at the various artists tackling the task!

Kazuo Koike and Goseki Kojima became a part of my consciousnesses thanks to Dark Horse Comics and my affection for Frank Miller's work. Everyone is inspired by someone/something and Frank showed us some of his. I'm grateful

Bloody Elbow

2010-08-20T11:22:00.000-07:00

Recently, Bloody Elbow reposted some fighters I drew! Quite a compliment. So, last night at Drink and Draw in Downtown, Los Angeles, I drew this one up. I hope they dig it. The original post on their site can be found here.

Retro Luke Cage, Iron Fist & Daughters of The Dragon!

2010-07-15T10:57:00.000-07:00

I just finished writing a Story Outline for a Retro Luke Cage, Iron Fist and Daughters of the Dragon limited series for Marvel Comics. [ with Sabretooth and Dazzler! ] I'll keep you posted with all the details but in the meantime, here's some Teaser Art to whet your appetite! Enjoy!

Check out the mention at Robot 6! Nice!

Ker-Smash!

2010-07-02T14:46:00.000-07:00

Last night's Drink and Draw in Downtown Los Angeles turned out to be a great night of both of the aforementioned capitalized activities.

After discussing the upcoming UFC bouts tomorrow evening, I was inspired to create some ring weathered fighters.

Hope you dig. Click image to enlarge!

X-Factor Pages

2010-05-24T13:21:00.001-07:00

X-Factor Forever and Ever!

2010-05-21T09:54:00.000-07:00

Frazetta Forever

2010-05-15T01:10:00.000-07:00

Frank Frazetta's passing marks the end of an era that inspired the entire fantasy and comic book artistic community. A powerful man in both art and life. He will be missed but never forgotten. Frazetta Forever.

X-Factor Forever #3

2010-05-13T12:07:00.000-07:00

From X-Factor Forever #3

Had fun drawing some odd Marvel characters saving NYC from the flooding created by the emergence of a Celestial.

Hope you dig it!

Sneak Peek at X-Factor Forever #2

2010-04-13T18:12:00.000-07:00

These issues are jammed packed! Here's another page from the issue that will hit the stands tomorrow! Cheers!

X-Factor Forever Sneak Teaser Panels!

2010-03-08T11:16:00.000-08:00

In an effort to keep Louise Simonson's story line leak free, I decided to start posting panels instead of pages so I wouldn't give away any important story elements.

Having fun with Scott and Jean. I really want to create that bond that makes them a couple fans care about. Louise does an excellent job of mixing relationships with a constant barrage of action. There's non stop mayhem from issue #2 on. And even issue #1 has tons going on. Not too mention, a killer back up story featuring the origin of Apocalypse.

This is just a bunch of panels thrown together so you can get a sneak peek at what's in store for you!

I think it's going to be an interesting series for old and new fans. At least I hope so. If not, I'll buy a hat and eat it. Or something like that.

NYC Drink and Draw!

2010-03-05T01:58:00.001-08:00

Uncle Harry, RIP

2010-02-20T14:55:00.000-08:00

My Uncle ,Harry Tellalian, passed away on February 18th after a tough struggle with cancer. Growing up in Cleveland, Ohio, some of my fondest memories are of the times I spent with him. Later, when my family moved to Florida, Uncle Harry [ really my older cousin ] would visit fairly often.

Uncle Harry would write me quite a bit, which, looking back is pretty amazing. How often do any of us find time to write and send a letter. I have a lot of cousins and I always wanted to be the sort of Uncle or relative Harry was. Well, those are some tough shoes to fit into.

I have a lot of great Uncle Harry stories - but besides all the rough housing, [ he was a HS wrestler, so even if I was a grown man I would of still been tossed around like a rag doll! ] my favorite memory of Harry is from one day after school...

I lived in Florida at the time [ probably around when the top picture was taken with his mother and father ] and Uncle Harry was visiting and staying with our family for a few weeks. Being at school wasn't easy because all I wanted to do was hang out with him. Anyway, he decided he would meet me after school. I lived about 4 miles away and generally rode my bicycle everyday unless it was raining. So when I got out of class I noticed Uncle Harry was waiting for me. I have to describe this scene: As you can tell by the pictures, back then he looked like one of the Blues Brothers meets Elvis meets a Pro Wrestler. He was dressed pretty much as he was in the first picture as he sat on my mother's Schwinn bicycle. Of course, it was a girls bicycle and it had an old skool white basket on the front handle bars with flowers everywhere. Seeing Uncle Harry on that bike was quite a sight. He was just sitting there wearing sunglasses with a cigarette dangling from his mouth and I'll never forget it. Looking the way he did, who would say anything? But it was hard not to chuckle! I thought to myself, only Uncle Harry could pull this off. As I jumped on my bike, the girl I was madly in love with came walking towards me and I felt like my stock had risen 600 points because Uncle Harry was there with me. That's how much I looked up to him and loved him.

Thanks Uncle Harry for all the comic books and all the laughs. Having you in my life meant more to me than you'll ever know.

More X-Factor Forever!

2010-02-16T21:51:00.000-08:00

You asked for it! Or maybe you didn't. I don't recall - but regardless, here it is! The cover to X-Factor Forever #3! Pencils/Inks/Colors by your friendly neighborhood Urbanbarbarian!

I'll post some more black and white pages once the first issue hits the stands in March! Louise "Weezie" Simonson has really crafted a perfect X-Factor story and every page has been a treat to draw. I feel like I'm watching the story unfold as I go and I'm getting more and more into it! But, I've been very lucky so far at Marvel. Each project I've been a part of has had some super writers! Maybe I did something right in a past life, because I've sure made some mistakes in this one!

TORPEDO

2010-02-03T01:11:00.001-08:00

My take on this cover by Jordi Bernet - not nearly as cool, mainly because Bernet's version rocks and I didn't show his gun... But in the right hands, a newspaper can be used as, um, well - reading material, I suppose. Click on the image to enlarge ( if you dare! ) Cheers!

Apocalypse X-Factor Forever Page!

2010-01-30T11:54:00.000-08:00

Here's a sneak peek at another X-Factor Forever page ( Clicjk on the image to enlarge )! I can't post any pages that give away too much story, but something like this is perfect for the Blog-a-verse.

Louise Simonson has crafted a story that really ties up all the classic X-Factor storylines in a way that's fresh and fast paced. At the same time, there's enough quiet moments to make you truly care about the characters. There's a reason why she's such a beloved storyteller!

Anyway, enough mushiness from me! That's Apocalypse and Caliban, in case you didn't know. They're up to no good as usual - planning and scheming as they are ought to do! Enjoy!

X-Factor Forever Spread

2010-01-27T22:09:00.000-08:00

Here's a spread from Marvel Comic's X-Factor Forever Limited Series, written by Louise "Weezie" Simonson. For a sneak peek at cover #2 check out this link and then click on the image to enlarge it.

Gallery Girls

2010-01-09T23:38:00.000-08:00

Before Drink and Draw and before Dr. Sketchy's there was this place called Hades in downtown LA. It was a unique and short lived utopia for artists of every medium. It was inside a huge gallery that looked more like a massive/dark studio space. Art every where. An old car or two. Pool tables. Full bars. DJ's and occasionally live acts. Different levels and alcoves. It's hard to describe. Once a week artists of all types would gather in secret [ literally, due to the lack of a liquor license and other, ahem, reasons ]

But the heart of it was The Gallery Girls and they gave each night a particular theme. They were Life Drawing Models, Fetish Models and photography models. Some were on a stage. Some posing right next to you. Each one of them a muse for an evening. Each one of them helping to make the night unique.

Anyway, I was sad to see the thing fall apart. Luckily, The Gallery Girls are revising the evenings in LA. Check their page for updates and new events in Los Angeles.

X-Factor Forever Cover #1

2009-12-20T19:15:00.000-08:00

Written by Louise "Weezie" Simonson! I'll be illustrating the 5 issue mini series for Marvel Comics and I couldn't be happier! Check out the Weezie's interview here!

Guilty!

2009-11-22T19:23:00.000-08:00

The cover to issue 12 of Mark Waid and Peter Krause's Irredeemable published by BOOM Studios. The finished-finished piece is posted here!

Had fun with this one! Hope you enjoy. Listening to 1st Wave and Alt Nation on Sirius Satellite Radio and scribbling away makes the time fly by. I think it also influences the drawing some. Who knows - I'm not a psychologist - I'm still struggling with the straight line thing!

MMA Sketch Punch!

2009-11-02T18:04:00.000-08:00

Just sketching away. I tell myself it's good practice... See if you can spot the only other recognizable fighter besides Tank Abbott. It's very cartooned, but if you're a fan you should pick up on his karate stare!

Irredeemable Sneak Peek Cover #10

2009-09-29T12:39:00.001-07:00

I've added my idea for the masthead. It's up to BOOM Studios, however. The typeface is designed by Comic Craft. I adjusted it slightly to work with this cover. So, we'll see, won't we...?
Had fun with this one! If you would like to see it without cover copy, check out this link to my Deviant Art Page!

Go G.I.Joe!

2009-08-03T14:31:00.000-07:00

Just saw a screening for G.I.Joe at Paramount and I have to say... I LOVED IT! Great action movie for kids and, hell, even adults! The film moves along well and the characters work great together. Fun stuff.
So I did some kids books and some toys for the movie but the best part is that my wifey-poo, Elena Evangelo, has a nice part in the film. She plays the aide to the President and pops up here and there! That's my girl! Hooray!

Irredeemable Covers!

2009-07-06T22:25:00.001-07:00

Mark Waid's new Boom Studio's book Irredeemable is out and I've been drawing some of the covers. The latest one on the stands is a bit of a departure for me. I went to town on the modeling, sorta like I did with that Red Sonja cover a while back. It's fun, but takes forever! But, I'm very happy with the results. Hopefully doing work like this will push me to take more chances. We'll see, eh?

Best Auto Mechanic in Los Angeles!

2009-06-04T10:00:00.000-07:00

It's hard to find a good mechanic. It's even harder to find an honest one! Luckily for me I found both! I have a 1967 Firebird 400 ( I call her Mitra ) and you would think an old car like that would be easy to fix. No fancy parts, no computers... Just a big engine.

Well, since I've had the car it's been a costly nightmare to repair. Finally, a few years ago I drove by a repair shop with another vintage Firebird on the lot. I met with Jose and he did what no else could: Made my car ride PERFECTLY. And he barely charged me a thing. I had gone to specialty auto repair places, shops that cater to hot rods and they always charged me a fortune and the car still didn't drive like it should.... Jose must be a miracle worker. Nicest guy too.

Anyway, that was years ago. Now I never have problems and everyone I send his way thanks me. He can fix any car. I HIGHLY recommend him if you're looking for someone to fix your brakes or repair any aspect of ANY vehicle.

Call ROD's AUTO (323)658-8832, ask for Jose and tell them I sent you!

1451 N Sierra Bonita Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90046

Consider this my first and only public service message. One day you'll thank me.

The page above is from my first pencil/ink job for Marvel. I did a color treatment for fun. Enjoy.

X-Men Origins: Wolverine

2009-05-06T17:12:00.000-07:00

There's two camps when it comes to the new Wolverine movie out there. One loves it and one hates it. Well, I loved it. Sure, there were some little points here and there that could of been done better - but overall - wow! I loved every minute of it. Just a real fun movie! Both Hugh Jackman and Liev delivered, big time.

BTW, my issue of X-Men Origins: Sabretooth, although very different, contained a lot of similar scenes! I'll put some of those up when I get a chance. It was really something to see a scene I drew look very close to what was on the big screen. I hadn't seen the film and the comic book came out at the end of January - so it was just bizarre coincidences.

Anyway, here's some of the art from that issue. Many thanks to Ian Hannin for doing such a great job with the color!

SKAAR!

2009-05-02T20:04:00.001-07:00

The Skaar 31 page One Shot I penciled and inked is due to hit the shelves on May 20th! It's colored by none other than Kelsey Shannon too! The guy has been a big influence on me since I first discovered his work years ago. Pairing up with him on a book like this was a dream come true.

Skaar is The Incredible Hulk's Love Child. He was born on a Savage World and slings a sword not unlike Conan the Barbarian....! So, I guess you know I was pretty happy to work on this issue. Anyway, I'll post some of the pages as Marvel Comics releases more Preview Art.

The Urban Barbarian is going Green!

FX Con Orlando Style!

2009-04-15T22:54:00.001-07:00

All sorts of goodness awaits this weekend! I'll be at the FX International in Orlando! Friday night we're having a big Drink and Draw at Bangli Bar inside the International Plaza Resort and Spa, on International Dr. If you like Drinking and Drawing and you live in Central Florida this may be the place for you Friday Night! Saturday they're having a Charity Poker Tournament. Above is one of the cards you'll find in the deck! A bunch of cool artists illustrated all the playing cards. Neato, huh?

UPDATE: Had a blast at the convention! The Uber Amazing Jim Mahfood documented the experience above. We all got to sit together and nurse our evening wounds. Good times, as the young kids might say!

Thor Design and Interview

2009-02-09T21:52:00.000-08:00

Want to a funny story that will bring a tear to your eye?

Of course you do. You're still reading this. So I get a call from an Art Director friend of mine on Saturday as I was preparing to get my place ready for the Fedor/Arlovski fight. He asked me if I could submit a last minute design for the Thor movie that Marvel is doing.

Over course I was thrilled. They needed it Monday morning. Fine, whatever! They could of needed it in a few hours and I would of complied. It's Thor! Hell, I did design work for [link] Superhero, the Movie - I was waiting for a REAL superhero movie to come along!

Anyway, I factored in a few things. Like creating a suit that could successfully pad an actor and give him some heroic bulk, etc. I also knew that the colors had to be a bit more subdued than the Kirby comic book. And sadly, I had to come up with something that wouldn't look ridiculous on. A tall order.

So, I did what I could and enjoyed every minute of it. I managed about 65% of what I envisioned. Generally that's a decent success when it comes to applying your vision to paper.

I even incorporated the marks on Thor's plates into his logo...

Here's the sad part. I turned it in and that's when the AD mentioned it was a design for the ANIMATED movie. I just assumed it was for the Live Action film I've heard buzz about... Clearly I need to learn to ask more questions...! Assumption is the mother of all... what's the word I'm looking for? ;)

Hell, at least I got to design a Thor costume, right

ALSO, Randall Sly put up a new interview with me on his terrific Character Design Blog. Check it out!

More Drink and Draw for the masses!

2009-01-05T12:53:00.001-08:00

X-Men Origins : Sabertooth

2008-11-26T23:19:00.000-08:00

Hey Barbarians - here's the cover for the new X-Men Origins Sabertooth issue I'm penciling and inking. It's a 30 page eXtravaganza! I've been working like a fiend these days. Here's a link to a larger colored scan. There's an issue of X-Men Manifest Destiny (#2) out there and the Ultimate X-Men Annual too! Also just completed a quick Heroes GN for the TV show's website.

Happy Thanksgiving. Eat your pound of flesh, by Crom!

Riddle of Steel

2008-10-21T12:26:00.001-07:00

A birthday gift for a pal o' mine! I may have to do a whole set of quotes!

Poster time!

2008-10-10T15:02:00.000-07:00

Frank Turner, RIP

2008-09-29T17:58:00.001-07:00

A good man passed away not to long ago. Very few people truly live a life according to a code. Frank's code was based on honor and integrity. He said what he meant and did what he said he would do. There was never a question about where you stood with him. His code was very similar to the ideals found in the comic books we have read since we were kids. It's a way of thinking and behaving that's very idealistic and pure.

He was a talented artist with a direct and instantly enjoyable style. It came naturally to him. When I first met Frank, I was still in high school. The very same day I met him - he began helping me along. I inked his comic book Wild Knights ( which he drew under the name Alex Leonine ). Later he worked for Marvel Comics. Soon after, he moved out to California and worked for Sony Animation. He grew tired of the office politics and returned to Birmingham, AL and took a break from drawing. But that didn't last long. His love for art quickly returned and before he passed away he was working on a 'yet to be released' comic book.

I don't know what else to say. There's so much. He was a big brother, a mentor and friend. He was as tough a man as I have ever met but deep down inside, a gentle, gentle soul.

I will miss him.

Marvel Masterpiece Sketch Cards, v2

2008-09-26T20:42:00.001-07:00

A little late but as usual, I wish I could do cards full time! I love the Thor title, so most of my cards were from that universe.

Had to throw in Punisher though! And why not Banshee? I mean, why not, eh? Love those chompers of his. Reminds me of Mister Ed!

I'm Juggernaut!

2008-09-04T10:19:00.000-07:00

Here's a sketch from a forth coming story I'm illustrating for the X-Men:Manifest Destiny issue. It's written by Skottie Young and he trusted me with the art chores!

I'll post some more sketches soon. I've had more fun on this 8 page story than I ever in my comic book career! It's good to be back!

The character in color is named Hank. Believe it or not, he's a good guy. He tries to save the day. But by the end of the story we're left wondering if he should of left well enough alone.

The rest of the images are more character studies and panel sketches.

Of Wolf and Man w/ Lilith

2008-08-20T11:44:00.001-07:00

UPDATE: Of Wolf and Man is dedicated to Metallica. I drew that image for the Supernaturals book coming out soon and had to color it.

I colored a very recent illustration I did for a Supernaturals [ TV show ] book for Harper Colllins. I tried to get that old skool wood cut or turn of the century book illustration look going with this piece because it's meant to look like it's from an old text.

In black and white I think it comes across quite well. The color updates the piece nicely.

Jack Secret Winter

2008-08-03T14:27:00.000-07:00

Randy Couture Urban Barbarian!

2008-07-28T16:30:00.000-07:00

The San Diego Comic Book Convention 2008 was a ton of fun made even better by the appearance of none other than The Natural himself - Randy Couture. AKA, Captain America! One of my all time favorite MMA fighters ever. The guy was a class act and it was the high light of the show for me. Now there's a true Urban Barbarian for you!

Our booth was a lot of fun. Mark Irwin and I discussed Jack Secret with a few folks while Cheeks and Jon Boy sold books like wild fire! Art studs! Then Joey Mason showed up and wowed a few fans. One in particular... LOL!

Here's a sketch recreation from the show. I was thrilled to put a lot of faces to fellow bloggers and DA guys and gals. Thanks for stopping by and saying hi!

Email me privately for Sketchbooks and limited edition prints left over from the show!

San Diego Here We Come!

2008-07-17T16:11:00.000-07:00

Yup! Seems that the Urban Barbarians are coming to a town near you! [ especially if you live near San Diego! ] Our booth # is 2544. So PLEASE stop by and say hi!

I'll be with Mark Irwin, CHEEKS, Jon Boy Meyers and Joey Mason!

So how's that for a good reason! We all have sketchbooks and other nifty items available! See you there amigos!

BTW, sorry about the lack of posts lately. I've been penciling an X-Men/FF Ultimates Annual written by the guys that write the TV show Heroes. More on that later! Very exciting stuff. Danny Mikki will be inking me and making me look good! Can't wait!

Have a Seat

2008-06-06T11:50:00.000-07:00

Went to a workshop with painter William Wray last night in Pasadena. A great studio with some very talented artists. Humbling...

Double X [+]

2008-05-29T22:01:00.000-07:00

It's been a while since I attended one of those all night workshops - so when I heard about a new one I forced myself to leave the Cave of Crom and check it out! And by Mitra's Sacred Girdle, I'm glad I did! Here's the only one I felt came out half-way decent. Each pose was a timed 25 minutes and there were at least 5 to 7 poses. There was plenty of mead on hand - so one tends to forget the subtle art of counting...

I've added some nifty little "X"'s just to make sure I don't offend anyone's kindly demeanor! Enjoy, Fellow Barbarians! Oh, and here's a link to a frenetic sketch I banged out.

Marvel Comics: Black Widow!

2008-05-28T18:56:00.000-07:00

Just did this pin-up this morning of one of my favorite Marvel Heroes! Black Widow! The Soviet Spy that'll make you cry! I did two versions. Which one do you like better? Top or Bottom...? ;)

100K Hits!

2008-05-25T14:11:00.000-07:00

This blog has taken a big pummeling! 100,000 hits. Ouch. But it hurts so good! Thanks for checking in and stopping by to say hi!

To celebrate, I may as well show off show off something apropos. Just did this Dragonlance cover for Devil's Due Publishing. I really had fun with it and especially liked painting the clouds.

Below the comic book cover is a nice little photo of me and my cutie-pie wife struggling with a barbecue! All those instructions! Heat the grill. Put the steak on the grill. Flip it. Flip it again and again and again! It's maddening! Maddening I say!

Thanks again for all the support, fellow barbarians! Stay Mighty!

Two-fer!

2008-05-15T23:46:00.000-07:00

Here's a mock up I made of the new Bloodrayne cover I recently did. That's not the issue number but I wanted to see what it would vaguely resemble all dolled up. The young lady seems to get herself in a wee-bit of trouble from time to time. Luckily, she comes to the dinner table with some nice steak knives and a healthy appetite. Charming little red head.

And lookee-lookee, there's a little sketch there too. Just fooling around and drew some nice people. Some playing around in PS and there you have it.

Even More Marvel Cards

2008-05-05T13:57:00.001-07:00

Can you believe there are more? Well, believe it! Here's six more! Lots of fun. Pitt and Copic Markers with some good ol' fashioned White Out pen.

Marvel Cards

2008-04-26T09:53:00.000-07:00

When you see the new color cards by guys like Dave Johnson, David Williams and of course Adam Hughes ( I'm thinking about his Star Wars and Indiana Jones cards...! ) you'll know why I decided to color these up. Actually, I had a lot of fun with them by the time I was finished. Heck, maybe even Jeff will post some of his!

Ghostmaker

2008-04-08T18:37:00.001-07:00

Here's some new designs for a project I just finished up called Ghostmaker. The original designs were posted last year but the story dictated that the name needed to change. I think it's a big improvement. I like the new designs better too!

Six Gun Sally black and white finish

2008-04-02T15:49:00.000-07:00

This was interesting because, as usual, there are many aspects that got lost in the ink stage... Each time a piece is worked on something is "lost in the translation" as they say. However, there were some nice things that happened too. The Native American, Brown Fox, came away with more personality and I did a better job of separating Sally's father from the gun below him. The buffalo came together okay, I suppose. It will be interesting to see how it's colored. I'll post once all the versions are finished up thanks to a project Snakebite is putting together.

Six Gun Sally Prelim

2008-03-25T10:00:00.000-07:00

It seems like forever since I started this project. But here's the latest "pencils" for a Six Gun Sally preliminary pin up I've managed to crank out. Here's a link to an earlier post with my first SGS designs.

...And when I say "pencils" I think you can tell by the work that I mean rough draft. This was all done on my Wacom Cintiq. Generally, I'll sketch out the rough draft - print it out and ink the illustration on thick vellum. Then scan it in. No more light boxes for me...!

Alice In Wonderland, Part 2

2008-03-07T14:40:00.000-08:00

Well, it had to happen. Eventually I had to finish this piece for Brian Gubicza! A while back we did a commission trade and he promptly sent me a beautiful illustration! Check this earlier post for the sketches that went into this and Brian's illustration on my wall.

The final illustration is pretty big. Around 35" high. To see a full size version check out this link! I doubt Brian will put it up [ due to it's size ] but I just hope he doesn't feel cheated! I'm going to make a b/w canvas print for him and paint the red [ a bit lighter ] on. I've always wanted to do something like that! Can't wait to see how it looks!

The XY Post!

2008-03-04T12:29:00.000-08:00

There's a lot of testosterone in this post. Dan Henderson too. And no color either. Oh, it's brutal alright. Don't worry, I'm sure this will pass! But you never know. I keep threatening a barbarian drawing and one day it just might appear!

Also, Gary Gygax, the creator of Dungeons and Dragons passed away today. He was 69 years old.

warm ups

2008-02-10T21:03:00.001-08:00

Just some warm ups to get those muscles working again... These scans are pretty lousy however. They manage to capture bits of the photocopy on the flip side of the paper but not the subtleties of the pencil shading. But then again, they're just scribbles I suppose. I'd like to do some more of this if I get a chance. Maybe some barbarians will actually grace the drawing board soon. I may be asking too much, I fear! We shall see.

Drinky-Drinky!

2008-01-31T23:47:00.000-08:00

A little impromptu Drink and Draw went down the other night at the Cat n' Fiddle on Sunset. Here's some of the scribblings. Jeff Johnson started drawing some cool Samurai guys. The armor and the swords all looked perfect. Heck, Jeff is practically a samurai himself - it ain't fair! So I decided to draw some too but I guess Jose Lopez seeps into my mind when I start drinking. I shoulda' given the Kendo Cowboy a Sombrero instead of a standard issue cowboy hat and he could of been the ultra cool Mariachi Samurai! Oh well, that's what happens when you mix pints with pencil shavings...!

Heath

2008-01-28T20:48:00.000-08:00

Thought I'd post this illustration I based on Heath Ledger... It's very sad to see him pass away so young. He had a real charm and he seemed to really take his craft seriously. The motion picture world has lost something very special.

Alice in Wonderland, Part One

2008-01-20T23:44:00.002-08:00

Brian Gubicza is a very patient man. A long, long while ago he did an amazing drawing for me and all he asked for was one in return. I'm terrible with commissions and this is probably the last one I'll do for a long time. Why you might ask? I take forever! Anyway, I'm finally done with the pencils! Now I just have to ink it up and make a print of the final work. I'll post the results as I go. I'm really happy with the composition and the little twist I have planned...!

I put Brian's artwork up in the den next to an original French 8 1/2" poster! Brian is too talented and, like I mentioned, far too patient and kind! Check out his blog and the really cool book he put together!

ALSO: Check out Eric Canete's blog and read the "critique" he received from some "artist" about his work...! I'm hoping this is some kind of prank but sadly there are a lot of bad critics out there... It is good for a laugh though!

King Leonidas in the house!

2007-12-19T22:59:00.000-08:00

And he looks pissed as usual! Tonight we dined at Golden Apple for a CBLDF fund raiser. They invited the core Drink and Draw crew, Dave Johnson, Jeff Johnson and myself. We did our best to help out and when I drew Megan's favorite Spartan she chipped right in! Megan is Jeff's fiance' and I really appreciated her support! She's an incredible writer too! When she's not writing books for Warner Bros she's working on comic book and animation related projects with Jeff. A Team Supreme, if you will!

So another tipsy evening of art appreciation is under my belt. Thanks to everyone who came out to support the good cause! That even includes Mike Vogel! Who knows what I'll have trimmed next time I see him!

I'm no saint...

2007-12-04T00:34:00.001-08:00

An unusual piece for me. Had to use certain colors on this one that pertained the game, etc. A lot of fun but another rush job. Seems like that's my life these days!

On a side note, Blogger is having some Image Upload problems. So I had to reload this post and lost all the initial "Battle Cries". So sad...

Kusanagi/Ghost in the Shell!

2007-11-08T18:32:00.000-08:00

Kusanagi from Ghost in the Shell was the chosen subject and let me tell you - that was one tough hour! I thought it would be a breeze but the pressure got to me! It was like a sporting event with a brush!

Wildstorm's infamous Gelatometti Iron Chef Challenge just finished up! Guys in Jim Lee's famous studio often engage in art battles and bloggers get to chose their favorite drawings for the competition. Each artist is given one hour to complete an illustration of a character the bloggers choose. This time I was lucky enough to be invited in on the fun!

If you follow this link you can vote on your favorite! Please do!

Mister Creepmeyer

2007-10-17T10:18:00.001-07:00

This lovely gentleman is looking to make a friend and perhaps borrow some skin lotion. I believe he's interested in something with a specific SPF margin.

AND if there's any part of you that is Cimmerian - visit this website!!!

McCaig in the House!!!

2007-10-05T21:02:00.001-07:00

Dave McCaig delivered and served it up hot! A few posts ago I put up my pencils for this piece and here's how Dave interpreted them. Man, he's got some chops! I'm really thrilled about the collaboration!

Marvel Display!

2007-09-18T16:38:00.001-07:00

This may not look like much now - but wait until later this week! The one and only Dave McCaig will be implementing his Photoshop Painting skills and turning this frog into a prince! His work is simply amazing and when the battle rages into the digital painting arena this man is the Heavyweight Champion of the Octagon! That's right, his Wacom Pen is the modern day equivalent of Thor's Uru Hammer!!!

Upperdeck is launching a new Marvel Card Game and somehow the fates the smiled upon this urban barbarian last week! The bad news was that it needed to be "painted" and I have a Superman story to complete this month so I thought it was curtains for me! Luckily Dave was available which meant that I could practically email him stick figures and I would be guaranteed a beautiful looking piece of art! I'll post the beauty as soon as I get a hold of it!

The only difficult part was penciling in layers. For composition purposes, all the elements needed to be done separately. So, there's a good chance the basic layout may change some when it's all printed up.

...Can you tell I'm excited about this?

Nina and Xiaoyu

2007-09-11T00:01:00.000-07:00

I'd like to do more of this sort of thing. Just sketching... You would think an artist would be sketching all the time, right? Well, ideally - yes. But generally I'm sketching my next assignment. I miss those late night Hades drawing sessions... Tonight, after a long day, I sketched Nina from Tekken. Maybe tomorrow I'll sketch Brian Fury or Heihachi Mishima.

Maybe I'm more geek than barbarian... Don't tell anyone!

Mike Wieringo, RIP

2007-08-13T09:29:00.000-07:00

A tremendous artist and friend to all passed away. Mike "Ringo" will be missed. God bless him.

More here.

Jazz Fellows

2007-08-06T18:23:00.000-07:00

More Jack Secret and...

2007-08-01T12:24:00.001-07:00

Maelstrom!

2007-07-23T00:16:00.000-07:00

Another shot of Brik - or maybe he should be called: Maelstrom! Who can say....!

Cutting Edge

2007-07-17T17:00:00.000-07:00

Nice title, eh? You can't go through a meeting without hearing those words - but this is one instance where the title actually suits the material!

Ker-Smash!

2007-07-12T23:54:00.001-07:00

Hulk likes Smashy Smash!!!

2007-07-10T15:22:00.000-07:00

Jack Kirby's Thor!!!

2007-07-03T00:50:00.000-07:00

Jack Kirby. Maybe you've heard of him? He's famous for designing and creating some of the most memorable comic book characters in history! My favorite was his Thor interpretation! Ivan Brandon ( of NYC Mech, Crossbronx, 24/7 ] found a link that showcased a full size penciled page drawn by the King himself. I had to take a stab at inking it! In one hour and twenty minutes I was finished! The time flew by - probably because his work is just so much fun to ink! Great shapes and sweeps! Thanks Ivan!!! - Long live the King!

Angry Hulk!

2007-06-21T00:33:00.001-07:00

Vinyl Toy Design...!

Caught

2007-06-13T19:20:00.001-07:00

Scary!

2007-06-06T07:46:00.000-07:00

Hulk Swat!

2007-05-25T15:16:00.001-07:00

Did this one on my Tablet PC sitting at a cafe... I gotta say, "I love Paris!" Great city, great people! My LA days may be numbered...!

Batman

2007-05-15T17:04:00.000-07:00

Thus it has been written...

2007-05-06T02:03:00.000-07:00

to check out a detailed version, kindly click here!
For more on Mr Tong, click here!
And special thanks to the Vonster for the awesome textures he sent me!

Gore?

2007-05-03T12:08:00.001-07:00

Hades Tuesday Night

2007-05-02T12:26:00.000-07:00

Oil of Olay

2007-04-27T11:21:00.000-07:00

Wolfie

2007-04-25T21:33:00.000-07:00

Spooky Wooky

2007-04-23T23:49:00.000-07:00

I like to impress with a flashy titles for these posts.

Color Me: DEATH (star)!!!

2007-04-18T14:36:00.001-07:00

Scary title, eh? Yeah, I know! Here's the colored version of yesterday's work. I tweaked Han's leg a bit. The knee was off and the hatching didn't follow the shape of the thigh that well.

Also, Mike Manley pointed out that Chewbacca's other hand was missing. Well, actually he thought the hand I had drawn was the other hand and that my Wookie Anatomy was off...! Anyway, I thought with the angle I had drawn that the hand wouldn't show.

It's really hard to justify standing by your art when someone points out a something that confuses them. Unless your art is intentionally vague - it's your responsibility as an artist to "tell the story". So - I changed it immediately!

Sadly, there's probably a million other things wrong with it but I'm content for the most part with how it came out!

Hey Kids, Star Wars!!! YUM!!!

2007-04-17T17:13:00.000-07:00

Above is the Cintiq Pencils and below the Old Skool Inks! Tomorrow I'll post the colors.

Super Post

2007-04-16T09:38:00.000-07:00

I've been really bogged down with work these days with a new book coming out from DC Comics and Warner Bros. Here's a sneak peek at what passes for my pencils ( done on my Cintiq ). I'll post the inks soon! That LA Blackout really threw my fragile schedule for a nasty loop!