Bat Lash

Another thing I've been working on lately is a new Bat Lash limited series from DC Comics. It's written by western author Peter Brandvold and the amazing Sergio Aragones and drawn by a master of old-west comics, the one-and-only John Severin. Covers are by Walt Simonson (no adjectives necessary). I haven't done much comic book coloring in the past couple of years, but how could I resist that line-up? Especially as I was specifically requested by the artist. Good for the ol' self-esteem, y'know?


Frankly, I know nothing about the old Bat Lash character, except for what I found on the wiki. However, the new series is shaping up to be a cool project that I'm happy to be associated with. The story is gripping and the art is gorgeous. Here's a little peek at some pages from issue one...






Dude can draw a horse, eh?

Nike

So, I keep mentioning how BUSY I am these days--as though everyone else is just goofing off! I suppose the reality is that we're ALL busy most of the time. Perhaps, I should just stop writing about how busy I am, and tell you what it is that I'm so busy with!

My problem is that I'm juggling several different projects at once, and none of them are getting done in a timely manner. Life keeps interrupting my work-flow, and these small-but-super-rush job suddenly appear and totally throw me off my schedule. This happened earlier this week, but it was kind of fun...



This is an image from a new NIKE promotion. To be honest, I don't know the whole story behind it, except that it is from a "custom comic" produced by TOKYOPOP in the popular "manga" style. They put together a book of short stories featuring Nike products and a wild-haired manga dude. Evidently, they wanted one particular panel to be drawn larger to be used separately for posters or something, but they were having trouble getting exactly what they needed from the original artist. At the last minute, they came to me, and I stepped in and totally re-worked the image to their specs.

From what I gather, they were happy with my work (no corrections!) and I must admit that I'm pretty pleased with it myself. Especially when I look at it compared to the original drawing. I'm tempted to show it here, but I won't, as I'm not looking to embarrass anyone. The sad part (for me!) is that I get absolutely NO credit for the drawing. If this turns out to be a huge campaign and my image is plastered all around the country, the only people who will know that I drew it will be me, my editor, and the three people who are reading this blog! Oh well, such is the life of the freelance artist...

Pilgrim

I guess I blew my opportunity to link the subjects of Thanksgiving and Comics by citing my favorite Pilgrim story. I've just been swamped with work lately. I need to post a catch-up blog to write about all my goings-on. But for now, a week late, I want to write about a particular Pilgrim. That's right, I'm talking about Scott Pilgrim!



I haven't yet read volume four of Bryan Lee O'Malley's slacker-epic, Scott Pilgrim Gets it Together, But then, I haven't been to The Comic Bug in a couple of weeks. I may have to go by tomorrow, cuz I can't wait anymore. If you haven't read volumes 1-3 of Scott Pilgrim, you are seriously depriving yourself of some quality entertainment.

Actually, I was kind of hoping for a free copy in the mail. Why do I deserve one? Well, one of the things I've been busy with during the past few months has been coloring an 8-page sequence in the new book! It was the most fun I've had coloring for a lonnnnng time. A real pleasure. Made me feel like a fanboy again! Here's a sample:



Ain't it purdy? if you're familiar with Bryan's work, you'll notice that it looks quite a bit different from the art in the previous volumes. His growth and confidence as an artist is obvious. I was already an admirer of Bryan's work from his graphic novel Lost at Sea, and I've loved SP since my buddy, Mike Wellman (see The Comic Bug link, above) turned me on to the first volume last year. It's great to see an artist who you already like just get better.

You can read all about SP at Bryan's blog/website. In fact, I was just reading it earlier today. He asked readers what they would title the next installment of SP, which spawned all sorts of funny responses. I came up with this idea, which, for some reason, I find hilarious...



Maybe I just need more sleep.

READ SCOTT PILGRIM!

Happy Thanksgiving!

A lot to be thankful for. Have a great & grateful holiday!


(Last week in Central Park)

Kinokuniya Map

Greetings. Quick post: The Borders signing went well last night. This afternoon, we'll be doing a repeat performance at the Kinokuniya Bookstore in Downtown LA, from 2-4 PM. Come on down and meet us!


View Larger Map

Two Book Signings This Weekend

Hey all. Haven't had much time to post lately, hopefully that will change soon. I'm working on a Princess Ai story for TOKYOPOP. Will share art soon!

Meanwhile, I'll be joining some of my fellow Ameri-manga creators at some signings this weekend. The first is TONIGHT at the Borders Bookstore in Northridge, CA. 7PM. Here's a map:


View Larger Map

Tomorrow afternoon (Saturday), we'll be at the Kinokuniya Bookstore in Downtown Los Angeles from 2-4 PM. here's another map.

Hope you can make it if you're in the area! Maybe the posters will be ready! You know you want one!