Hey all, just a quick heads up about my status as a southern east coaster here. We're currently under a tropical storm watch, and very likely a hurricane watch expected later on. Right now, Dorian is moving too slowly to get a definite plan of action going (we're on the very edge of the evacuation zone - it may extend further, but again, Dorian is moving too slowly to make that call yet). Just in case, I've booked a hotel room further inland and have a go-bag packed and ready. Sensitive electronics are packed up and stowed, and while I do not expect flooding in this area, it's better to take precautions just in case. Right now I'm just keeping an eye on the forecasts and waiting on calls from my parents to see what to do next (dad's on the emergency response team so he's in close contact with city officials). The area I'm in isn't expecting the worst of the storm, but we're still gonna feel it nonetheless so we're making preparations. The good news is that, according to preliminary forecasts, the system isn't conductive for tornadoes, so that's one less threat to worry about. It's mainly flooding from rain and the storm surge, as well as potentially damaging winds, that we're concerned about. While my home technically isn't in a flood zone... it's still close to it, so I'm taking precautions.

Again, I don't expect anything serious to happen over here (just precautions and waiting for now), but I figure it's best to be proactive for these situations. I'll give updates as needed.

Those of you further south, please be careful out there!

Man, what an amazing week.

Start off with my very first Autocross (running my friend's Dodge Neon ACR, I shaved off 15 seconds between my first and last runs), then spend a few days hanging out with Jakebunny, and then Anthrocon itself, where I went all-in with my new Otter fursona, grabbed some great commissions, met a number of folks I hadn't seen in years (Hi, Slippy and Dawn!), and even sold more than half of the pieces I brought for the Art Show!

I'll have some new stuff to show very soon. Today was pretty much a relaxation day for me while I recuperated from the time away; tomorrow I plan to do the scanning and other stuff before returning to some commissions I owe and, hopefully, a brand-new story for an upcoming Anthology for FurPlanet. After that, I'll be gearing up for my final final semester of grad school this fall. Gonna get that Specialist degree :D

I've arrived at Anthrocon! My Art Show pieces are set up, badge obtained (nifty sponsor gifts this year), and I've already seen the fireworks from the comfort of my own hotel room.

I absolutely LOVE the Surf Pacific theme this year, and my Art Show works (brand new material!) and intended commissions will reflect that. See you guys over the next wave!

Mostly reposted from Twitter...

I've been working on some summer art to be featured with Anthrocon's "Surf Pacific" theme this year. I love a theme like that, and as a bonus it's given me time to delve into the slice-of-life setting that Melon and the other "normal" characters inhabit. Now they're getting an actual continuity that runs parallel to the "future mystic" setting (remember Forest Magic?). In the past I've called it the "Bamboo Bar Universe" since it had its origins in a shared-world setting that a friend of mine came up with over a decade ago that allowed us to set our "normal" characters loose in a setting to see what stories they make on their own. Now, however, I haven't been in too close a contact with that friend in a while (we're still on very good terms, just really far apart), and I've decided to shape my own slice-of-life world for my characters to live in. This time, it's a coastal Pacific city with a lot of SoCal vibes and an occasional Yosemite flavor added to the east. So you've got my fursona, Mel, Remy, and others who don't quite fit in the sci-fi/fantasy worlds I've created. This is a modern day, slice of life setting to just let them live their normal lives as normal folks with normal problems along with normal triumphs of life. The RAWR workshop proved I can make stories like this without being boring :p This is my chance to experiment while giving my everyday characters a place of their own. Plus, characters from the aforementioned sci-fi/fantasy worlds will cameo on occasion as "normal" folk. It's also allowed me to create characters with problems that aren't "world-ending." (i.e., dealing with a string of ridiculous customers as a barista, trying to keep a struggling surf shop afloat, impressing -or failing to impress- a potential boy/girlfriend). Plus, as I said, there's still room for fantasy as the characters and some of the setting will go parallel to the future mystic world (Forest's Magic) I created a few months back, just because they also fit so well in that setting, too. Same real world problems, with an occasional magical tweak. Hey, some habits die hard! This experiment has also allowed me to give existing characters more development whenever they show up as cameos. For instance, my roo girl Terarra now has a series of tattoos and standardized piercings for continuity. I'll admit I don't really have any specific stories to tell in this setting yet. More like I'm just building the world and watching what happens when the characters move in. They're fun to watch when left to their own devices, and I'm always surprised at what comes from it.

So after Anthrocon, be prepared to see a whole new slew of characters as I experiment with this new setting, flexing my creativity muscles and shaping two parallel universes, while also finally giving Melon and crew a brand new place to call their own. You've seen some of them already, but now they can all be together in the same coffee shop/dance club/insert social setting of your choice here.

Reposted from my Twitter:

Lately I've had an itch to stream again, but the storyteller in me is demanding something a little more extravagant...
It's no secret that I LOVE the original Mass Effect trilogy. Now that they're compatible on XB1, I've wanted to go back and play them again. But this time, I've been pondering streaming it in its entirety. Like a full-on video game binge on Twitch.
This would not only allow me to share one of my favorite series with people in realtime, but also replay the game and experience its memories again. I'd get to reminisce with the viewers and add my own commentary while also "RPing" Shepherd in the process, creating a new story to tell.
It'd be an exhaustive run, though. As cinematic as possible. That means all the dialogue (no skipping), lots of character conversations, all the important missions and a few notable side quests... and some time spent doing the tedious stuff like gathering resources (though New Game+ bonuses ought to leverage that a bit). Basically, no rushing through it. It'll almost be like a series of shows (ME2 had a perfect rhythm for that, might I add).
I'm still unsure if I'd get any serious viewers, and I'm a completionist, so if I do this... I'd have to commit to it fully. For example, an hour every weeknight or something (just like a show ;p), throughout the Summer, until finishing in August or September.
The time commitment and unpredictable nature of streams do give me pause on this, but I'm still contemplative on it. Thoughts, anyone?

And to those curious: FemShep... Paragon... Adept, 'cuz space magic.

I have safely returned home from an amazing FWA! Details to come later when I have more time, but I've got some catching up to do.

I will say this, though... I think I finished more sketches at that con than I've EVER done before at a convention. I'll have plenty to post soon!

Furry Weekend Atlanta is fast approaching, and I am now seeking roomies to help share the cost! No partying in the room please, for I need a place to relax from the partying everywhere else in the hotel :p

Priority will be given to people I know personally. Anybody interested?

* * * * *

EDIT: Roomies found! Yay!!

Yarr, mateys! I'll be joining my buddies in Sons of Glitches and sail the Sea of Thieves tonight! Come watch us get into high seas shenanigans at 10pm EST.

https://www.twitch.tv/aelius24

MFF was awesome, as you might have guessed from my Twitter feed. Right now I'm working on Christmas prep and some post-con commissions/trades.

I've also got a special project and a glimpse at a new future that I hope to debut on New Year's, if I can stay focused. Changes are coming....

Wait... my last journal on here was about Anthrocon?? I need to stop being such a introvert.... XP

Anyways, yes, I'm slated to make an appearance at MFF this year! It'll be a wonderful reward for surviving a brutal semester, and a great way to wind down from all the school work (just one more year to go...). As before, I plan on setting up in the Artist Alley, most likely on Saturday and Sunday, where I will once again be offering my services as an art commissionee. I should be easy enough to find - just look for the Aelius badges!

So whom else might I see at the convention? Shout out if you're coming!

At this year's Anthrocon Art Show I debuted two new color pieces featuring Melon's triplet brother Lio, and so far both pieces are the only ones with bids. He's proving quite popular already!

Those of you at the con, I've got artwork on display in both the General and Mature Art Show, and some pieces are yet to be posted online. Stop by and be the first to check 'em out before everyone else! :D They're all framed and ready for mounting, too, should you desire some physical art to take home.

Right, Anthrocon is less than a week away, so I need to get this journal posted XD

In the interest of time I'll forego the meme this year, particularly since it's mostly cut-and-paste now, so if you were to go back to prior years I'd wager it's almost entirely the same as it would be this year.

New stuff artwise, though! Come stop by the Art Show and get a glimpse of two (possibly three if I can finish this last one on time) brand new pieces before I post them here! Beyond that, I'm just looking forward to hanging out with my furry friends once more, celebrating anthropomorphic animals and getting some related goodies from the Dealers Den.

Sound off if you'll be there, too!

Ever since Jake's stream, I've been pondering the possibility of hosting a stream myself as I work on inks and coloring, though I have to admit the notion of having everyone watching me as I work is a bit intimidating, coupled with the possibility that I might not be able to hold a decent conversation with folks. What do you guys think? If I were to stream some artwork, would anybody watch?

Came across a husky in need earlier today, thought I'd help spread the word:

https://www.furaffinity.net/view/27693399/

 kiosutra is doing an art stream while he and I are chatting on Discord. Come drop by!

https://picarto.tv/Jakebunny

The fine folks at Furry.fm have uploaded our podcast on their YouTube channel! Those of you who weren't able to make it, or who want to re-listen, can find it here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fGHzaBCCShg

Just got home from FWA. Had a great time! Made some sales, got to hang out with friends, and sketches out some pieces I can't wait to color. I'll post them and the commissions later this week. For now... g'night all!

Oh, right, I still have to do one of these! FWA tomorrow!
As usual I plan to grab a spot in the Artist Alley on Saturday and Sunday, and possibly Friday if I get bored and find an open seat. Just keep an eye on my Twitter for announcements - aelius24


And now... the convention meme:

Where are you staying?
Back in the Atlanta Marriott Marquis.

What day are you getting there? How long are you going?
Should be arriving Thursday afternoon and staying until Sunday evening.

How are you traveling?
Car.

Who will you be rooming with?
 gnaw

How is the best way to find you? Where will you be most of the time during the day/s?
I spend a lot of time walking around the Dealers Den and Artist Alley. On Saturday and Sunday, maybe even Friday afternoon, I'll be selling commissions in the Alley!
After the Den closes and I need a break from Alley stuff, I'm usually either in my hotel room or shuffling around the lobby levels, maybe hanging out in one of the lounges if there's space. Or in a restaurant.

If I see you, how should I get your attention?
Just say, "Hey Aelius!"

Do you have an artist table?
I plan to have an Alley table on Saturday and Sunday, and possibly Friday. Follow my Twitter feed for announcements.

Are there any panels you might be attending?
The writing-central panels always sound helpful.

What do you look like? What is your gender?
Reposting from last year, and the year before that: I am male, and fairly average-looking at that. Just look for my "Aelius" conbadges and likely a video-game-related shirt.

Are you nice?
I'm told I am.

Will you be suiting?
Nah, just my normal clothes.

Do you do free art?
Nope, sorry.

Can I talk to you?
Sure!

Can I touch you?
Why?

Can I visit your room?
I prefer you didn't, unless you were invited. A fennec needs a den to relax from the bustle of the convention and recharge.

Can I buy you drinks?
No thanks, I'm good.

Can I give you stuff?
Only if there's no catch!

Can I take your picture?
Certainly, just ask.

Can I hug or snuggle with you?
How about a friendly handshake instead?

Will you be going to parties?
Highly doubtful unless they're sketchbook parties and/or I know most of the folks there.

Will you be performing?
Nah. Introvert

What/where will you be eating?
Any place with good food! Most likely the Peachtree Mall's food court during the day.

Can I come with you for food/fun/etc?
Only if you're invited We often have groups that are limited in number, and I'm not usually the one organizing them.

Can I look in your sketchbook?
Sure, just ask first.

Can I draw in your sketchbook?
See above response.

What's your favorite animal to draw?
All of them! :D Seriously, one of the main reasons I love furry is because there are animals involved, and I embrace any opportunity to draw 'em, both familiar and exotic.

What's your goal(s) for the con this year?
To have a good time, most of all. I want to hang out with friends, get some commissions & comics, and enjoy the experience.

The fine folks of South Afrifur have invited me on for an interview in their podcast! Come listen to me ramble on about how much the fandom has changed since I joined it years ago :p

This Sunday, the 25th, at 2pm EST.

https://furry.fm/en-gb/news/south-a.....us-this-sunday

Greetings all! Furry Weekend Atlanta is just a few weeks away, so I've been prepping for a return to my homestate convention. However, my roommate had to back out, so I'm currently occupying a room all by myself. I've decided to inquire among my associates here in hopes of remedying that... Is anybody looking for a room at the con? I've got a two-bed at the Marriott. Alternatively, does anybody here already have a room and is looking for another roommate (because there's enough time for me to cancel my own reservation)? Just send me a Note and we can discuss. Priority will go to people I know personally, but the call is open to whomever reads this.

Hope to see you guys there!

Furry Weekend Atlanta is just a month and a half away! Who all is planning to go? Who all wishes they could? :p

Hiya folks! I better update this journal, so since I'm in need of some extra funds for paying bills this month, I'm opening commissions!

Check out the options here. Sketches, Inks, and Colors both flat and shaded are all available. Standard rules apply (Rating maxes out at soft-R; nudity is fine, but no sex. I'm not comfortable drawing cub/diaper, scat/watersports, vore, flatulence, inflation, excessive gore, or characters owned by a corporation). For payment methods, I accept money orders and Paypal. If you've commissioned me before, I'm willing to accept checks, but there will be a short delay to ensure it clears.

Since a new semester has only just begun, I've got some time to work on these, so now is a great time to catch me if you've got some ideas! Interested? Just Note me and we'll work out the details!

I return! MFF was an awesome convention. It was so neat seeing so many positive responses about it after it ended, and knowing I was there and experienced them myself makes them even sweeter. Plus, we've now become the biggest furry con in the world! 8700 attendees, and well over $80K raised for charity!

Now... to rest from the all the excitement. Interestingly enough, despite my desire to go back immediately, PCD didn't hit as hard this time. We'll see how long that lasts :P I'll have the usual commissions and a few new sketches posted soon, and maybe I can talk myself into writing a full con report while I'm at it.

It seems to have become tradition that the month of November will always be the busiest around here, mainly because it's a combination of end-of-semester projects being due, Thanksgiving holidays to prep for (which take time away from aforementioned end-of-semester projects), MFF preparations (which also reduce time available for end-of-semester projects), and stuff at work picking back up as the semester at a different school ends, which means more projects that need to get done before the end of the month.

Thus, I'll probably be going silent for a while, at least until MFF when some of you may get to see me in person. Those I owe commissions to, don't worry, I'm still working on them along with my semester work. Updates will likely be slow, but I intend to have them finished before Thanksgiving.

Oh yes, I will be attending Midwest FurFest this year, and it's a month away!
I've begun some prep work toward the convention, hopefully with some new prints to offer in the Alley, though it's kinda slow-going due to a sudden attack from a nasty sinus infection > .< Got some meds that should help, though.

So is anybody else planning on attending this year? Who might I see walking around the con floor?