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Some Guys

I did these wacky portraits in my inking class. Veronica brought in hilarious photos of random people and had us use giant brushes and large paper (18" x 24") to create these. The objective was to work fast and have fun - so they're far from perfect. I was just trying to stay loose. 

I'm sad that it was our last class! Veronica is an amazing teacher and I hope she will be teaching more adult classes at WAM. She encouraged us all to work outside our comfort zone while keeping it fun. Ink is a pretty unforgiving medium, so if you get really uptight about it you will drive yourself crazy. Granted, I'm not going to throw out the advice I once read, "Think before you ink," because that's important too especially with a comic page. But it's good to find a balance. 

Rough Draft - Comic Cover

I've been working on a cover for my new book of collected comics. This is the rough concept design. The characters won't be 'see-through' as they are here - I was just trying to figure out placement. In case you can't read what's under 'Hot Donut Salad,' it says, 'and other strange concoctions.'

Next step is to draw it in pencil and then ink it. Then color it in photoshop. I think the background is set. I like it. It has the groovy vibe I'm looking for. Any thoughts or suggestions would be much appreciated!

Film Pick...Look at Me

I rent French films in bulk to work on my French listening skills. So I never know quite what I'm getting. Once in a while I stumble upon a gem such as this. 

What it's about: Lolita Cassard, the main character, is a self-consciously overweight vocalist in music school. Her father, famous writer Etienne Cassard, constantly dismisses her and anyone else who's not advancing his career. He's the film's "bad guy," through and through. Yet all of the characters, though not as callous as Mr. Cassard, share his cold, opportunistic behavior to some degree. They're all stepping on someone to get to something better.

Why it's good: It's well written. The plot masterfully weaves the different characters to each other. The casting, directing, and acting are flawless. Husband and wife writer/directors, Agnes Jaoui and Jean-Pierre Bacri, also star in the film. They're the team responsible for Oscar-nominated film, The Taste of Others, which is great, but I like this one better.  

Wheelin' and dealin'

I've been training indoors with a cycling team since the beginning of November, which definitely helped me get through the New England winter, but now I can't wait to ride outside! Yay Spring!

A Leprechaun Can Come in Handy...

This incredible cover art is by artist Kurt Schaffenberger.