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Fireworks and the 4th of July

June 29, 2009 – 6:29 pm

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In the United States, Independence Day, commonly known as the Fourth of July, is a grand summer holiday which brings to mind different summer past times like picnics, parades, barbecues, carnivals, food, concerts,baseball games, and most certainly fireworks.  The fireworks stands will be busy this week selling every kind of fireworks imaginable, so that the night sky will be filled with wondrous colors, shimmering lights, thunderous explosions, and more than a little residual smoke.  I’m filled with fond memories of the really stupid things we did with firecrackers growing up, and thankful that I have all of my fingers, and most of my hearing.  Wishing everyone here in the US a safe and happy Fourth of July holiday.

In my ongoing effort to bring the world around me to life, and honestly the world is a better place with a little animation, I created the cute little firecracker above.  Sadly I created him almost two weeks ago, but did not get around to the digital version until today.  My recent search for employment has kept me more than a little busy of late.

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Above, I’ve included the original concept sketch.  Several people have expressed an interest in seeing the original drawings, so I will make an effort to try to include them.  It is fun to see how the idea evolves from sketch to completion.  Thankfully nobody can see the conversations that I have with these character during the process.  Oops, I’ve shared to much.  Oh, and the firecracker says to have a wonderful week. :)


stars, and positive thinking

June 11, 2009 – 9:18 am

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It has been a while, since I’ve posted art, that was not related to Illustration Friday.  I’ve been busy lately trying to find freelance work, and more recently a full-time job.  I really enjoy my freedom of working on projects that I feel strongly about, however in the current economy I’ve been struggling for the last 2 years.  One thing that I’m proud of, is that I do not give up.  Many people have accused me of being stubborn.  I’m in the process of transitioning into an children’s illustrator/artist, from a career of Technology teaching and consulting.  I’m also in the early stages of writing an illustrated children’s book.  These are new areas for me, full of more uncharted waters and uncertainty.

The illustration above is something I drew about a month ago.  On one hand, it is not meant to be me saying, “I’m a star,” like some egotistical idiot.  However, we all should be like this star and take credit for who we are and what we can do.  I created the illustration to generate positive energy for myself and others.  I’m proud of my artistic abilities, and I love to draw, create, imagine, and dream.  What things make you proud about yourself?  What things make you happy?  Think of the things that make you happy and proud to be you.  Now, write those things down on a piece of paper.  Draw smiley faces, pictures, or cut out pictures and tape them to it, to make you smile and feel good.  Put your list in your wallet, purse, pocket, or where ever, as long as you can take it out and look at it when you need a positive energy boost.  Remember, you are a star.  Be positive.  Be happy.  Be radiant.


craving – illustration friday

June 9, 2009 – 7:42 pm

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Most dragons have a craving for gold, jewels, and wealth.  They hoard all of their treasure away from the world, in dark caves and fiercely guard it from anyone or anything that may try to take even one single coin.  Over time the dragons grew larger and larger, trapped with the very treasure they hoarded.  Pip, the little red dragon, did not crave the selfish ways of the older and larger dragons. He enjoyed sharing his wealth with his friends and family.  He preferred the sunlight instead of dark caves.  Flying in the early morning air was one of his favorite things.  He would glide, float, and soar.  His scales were red and gold like the rays of the sun light.  Anyone that witnessed his early morning play could not help but smile.  Over time, Pip became legend, however to this day his image is said to bring happiness, joy, and wealth to all who see it.  May you be filled with happiness and joy, and share it with everyone around you.


adapt – illustration friday

June 3, 2009 – 7:37 pm

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“Adapt” was the theme this week for Illustration Friday.  I thought about fun little monsters and robots having to adapt, cooperate, and work together to achieve a desired goal, but nothing was really striking a cord with me visually.  I left the topic alone for a few days and then it hit me.  What kind of car would different animals drive, and which one might have to adapt the most.  A fish seemed like the animal that would have to make the most changes to drive a car, or would they.  A VW Beetle, sort of looks like a fish bowl, so maybe more fish will take to the streets and help the ailing car companies.  It could happen.  Well, it can in my imagination anyway.  Have a wonderful week.


cracked – illustration friday

May 27, 2009 – 7:23 am

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The theme this week for Illustration Friday is “cracked.”  Eggs and things breaking came to mind first, but then I thought about the sad story of Hungry Bot.  Hungry bot is normally one of the nicest robots around.  He had been on a low-car diet for several days, and finally cracked due to the temptation of so many tasty cars and trucks.  In his defense, the local freeway did look like an all you can eat car buffet.

I’m having a huge sale right now on my original watercolor paintings in my Etsy Shop.  Also, my Zazzle shop is full of wonderful summer t-shirt designs.  I’m trying my best to develop my art and design work into a full time job, so if anyone needs some wonderful illustrations, art, or design work please let me know.  I would like to thank everyone for visiting, and for your support and encouragement.  Have a wonderful week.


contagious – illustration friday

May 20, 2009 – 3:29 pm

little_bot_contagious

With all of the horrible flu and virus stuff going on right now, especially in the news, my thoughts initially turned to negative ideas for this weeks illustration friday theme “contagious.”  My negative thoughts were soon pushed aside, when I thought about how someone can have a smile that is contagious, or that laughter can be contagious.  Happier notions prevailed, and I produced this happy little robot.  The color palette was influenced by thoughts of food for Memorial Day, and a fresh produce stand that I noticed a few days ago on the side of the road.  The farmer had a truck overflowing with watermelons.  I’m not sure where they came from since, it should be a little early in Tennessee to harvest watermelons.  Whether food, robots,art, friends, or family bring happiness to you, find something that makes you happy, and let your happiness be contagious. :)


popsicle parade – illustration friday

May 14, 2009 – 9:42 am

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The illustration friday theme this week was “parade.”  My mind often takes fun turns, when I start drawing.  I thought about all of the typical parades, with floats and bands, but with the warm weather approaching, my thoughts turned to summer time parades.  The summer heat reminded me of the fun popsicles we enjoyed growing up, whether it was from the freezer or the crazy ice cream van in the neighborhood.  Have you ever wondered what goes on in your freezer, when the door is closed?  I know it probably just something that I think about.  I imagined a freezer full of parades and fun.  How else could a popsicle make you so happy unless they were fun loving themselves.  I was able to catch a quick snap shot of the party in my freezer.  I hope the image brings a smile to your face, because it was certainly fun to create.  Have a wonderful day full of imagination.