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[FWA][7,000 watchers!]
General | Posted 11 years agoCommission Queue • Ask Me Anything • Art/Life ProTips
I broke 7,000 watchers! Gosh! I remember when I joined FA and nobody cared about my stuff for years. It's super-humbling to see such a large number. Even if they're not all active accounts, the fave/watch/comment ratio on my images is pretty robust, and it humbles me to know I have so many friends, patrons, and friendquaintances willing to comment regularly on my work. Every last comment is read and appreciated, so thank you all! <3
Aaaaand… last FWA Journal, I promise.
I'll be in Atlanta tomorrow, and bunking with hotaruarc and bloodshot23. I may sneak into a the Dealer's Den space, despite it being sold out, and share a table with everruler. I'm on the waiting list as well, so maybe I'll get in regardless. Or I may harass hibbary at the bite-size Artist Alley tables. Who knows? I also have two panels in the art show, because I bought one months ago, forgot, and then bought another. So… anyone needing Art Show real estate can hit me up!
Penultimately, programming has changed my lecture to Sunday at 2:30PM. Anyone is welcome to record, so I'm sure the lecture will appear online eventually. If not, I may record it for myself.
And finally, I take time before every con to clarify the following about meeting me in person: I promise that I have only love and value for you as an individual, and hope that whoever reads this and wants to will get to say hello to me. Here's a recent picture of me, so in a sea of scrawny white guys perhaps you'll be able to pick me out. Please don't be intimidated! I'm only mean once we become good friends. :>
Thanks for reading! Can't wait to see you there!
I broke 7,000 watchers! Gosh! I remember when I joined FA and nobody cared about my stuff for years. It's super-humbling to see such a large number. Even if they're not all active accounts, the fave/watch/comment ratio on my images is pretty robust, and it humbles me to know I have so many friends, patrons, and friendquaintances willing to comment regularly on my work. Every last comment is read and appreciated, so thank you all! <3
Aaaaand… last FWA Journal, I promise.
I'll be in Atlanta tomorrow, and bunking with hotaruarc and bloodshot23. I may sneak into a the Dealer's Den space, despite it being sold out, and share a table with everruler. I'm on the waiting list as well, so maybe I'll get in regardless. Or I may harass hibbary at the bite-size Artist Alley tables. Who knows? I also have two panels in the art show, because I bought one months ago, forgot, and then bought another. So… anyone needing Art Show real estate can hit me up!
Penultimately, programming has changed my lecture to Sunday at 2:30PM. Anyone is welcome to record, so I'm sure the lecture will appear online eventually. If not, I may record it for myself.
And finally, I take time before every con to clarify the following about meeting me in person: I promise that I have only love and value for you as an individual, and hope that whoever reads this and wants to will get to say hello to me. Here's a recent picture of me, so in a sea of scrawny white guys perhaps you'll be able to pick me out. Please don't be intimidated! I'm only mean once we become good friends. :>
Thanks for reading! Can't wait to see you there!
[FWA][TRY HARDER!] Art/Life/Protips Update
General | Posted 12 years agoCommission Queue • Ask Me Anything • Art/Life ProTips
EDIT: My Art Life / Protips have been updated! Check the link here, or at the top of any journal for more information. Consider the first section a small taste of things to come. c:
I'll be at FWA2014! I'm crossing my fingers for my position on the waiting list for the Dealer's Den. I'm debating using the Artist Alley at all, since I made next to no money there last year, in the short duration of my stay there. I will also plan on getting some stuff up at the Art Show, just like last year. Plus, I'll have a panel for artists, or anyone else who wants to know how important working in the furry fandom can be. Check out more info here. It's strange to think of people looking to attend a talk. Part of me only wants two people to show up, so we can leave immediately and get some coffee. It's going to be an intimate but fun talk!
Talk to you folks in the meantime. Decide to make today great!
EDIT: My Art Life / Protips have been updated! Check the link here, or at the top of any journal for more information. Consider the first section a small taste of things to come. c:
I'll be at FWA2014! I'm crossing my fingers for my position on the waiting list for the Dealer's Den. I'm debating using the Artist Alley at all, since I made next to no money there last year, in the short duration of my stay there. I will also plan on getting some stuff up at the Art Show, just like last year. Plus, I'll have a panel for artists, or anyone else who wants to know how important working in the furry fandom can be. Check out more info here. It's strange to think of people looking to attend a talk. Part of me only wants two people to show up, so we can leave immediately and get some coffee. It's going to be an intimate but fun talk!
Talk to you folks in the meantime. Decide to make today great!
[FURRY WEEKEND ATLANTA][TRY HARDER!]
General | Posted 12 years agoCommission Queue • Ask Me Anything • Art/Life ProTips
I'll be at FWA2014! I'm crossing my fingers for my position on the waiting list for the Dealer's Den. I'm debating using the Artist Alley at all, since I made next to no money there last year, in the short duration of my stay there. I will also plan on getting some stuff up at the Art Show, just like last year. Plus, I'll have a panel for artists, or anyone else who wants to know how important working in the furry fandom can be. Check out more info here. It's strange to think of people looking to attend a talk. Part of me only wants two people to show up, so we can leave immediately and get some coffee. It's going to be an intimate but fun talk!
Talk to you folks in the meantime. Decide to make today great!
I'll be at FWA2014! I'm crossing my fingers for my position on the waiting list for the Dealer's Den. I'm debating using the Artist Alley at all, since I made next to no money there last year, in the short duration of my stay there. I will also plan on getting some stuff up at the Art Show, just like last year. Plus, I'll have a panel for artists, or anyone else who wants to know how important working in the furry fandom can be. Check out more info here. It's strange to think of people looking to attend a talk. Part of me only wants two people to show up, so we can leave immediately and get some coffee. It's going to be an intimate but fun talk!
Talk to you folks in the meantime. Decide to make today great!
Myers Briggs Meme
General | Posted 12 years agoCommission Queue • Ask Me Anything • Art/Life ProTips
What is a Stigmata like?
Stigmatas are conscientious and value-driven. They seek meaning in relationships, ideas, and events, with an eye toward better understanding of themselves and others. Using their intuitive skills, they develop a clear and confident vision, which they then set out to execute, aiming to better the lives of others. Like their INTJ counterparts, Stigmatas regard problems as opportunities to design and implement creative solutions.
Stigmatas have been mistaken for extroverts, as they can adapt easily in social situations due to their complex understanding of an individual's motivations; however, they are true introverts. Stigmatas are private individuals who prefer to exercise their influence behind the scenes. Though they are very independent, Stigmatas are intensely interested in the well-being of others. Stigmatas prefer one-on-one relationships to large groups. Sensitive and complex, they are adept at understanding complicated issues and driven to resolve differences in a cooperative and creative manner.
Stigmatas tend to be sensitive, quiet leaders with a great depth of personality. They are intricately, deeply woven, mysterious, highly complex, and often puzzling, even to themselves. They have an orderly view toward the world but are internally arranged in a complex way that only they can understand. Abstract in communicating, they live in a world of hidden meanings and possibilities. With a natural affinity for art, Stigmatas tend to be creative and easily inspired, yet they may also do well in the sciences, aided by their intuition.
Myers Briggs Type Indicators types are psychological indicators created by Carl Jung. It's a simple but powerful tool to help you and others appreciate the way your mind works. I'd love it if people added an MBTI to their reference sheets, but just getting the concept out in a journal is good enough for me.
Find your Myers Briggs type. (I'm an INFJ)
Search your four letters on Wikipedia. Find/replace your name with your letters, and you may be surprised by the results!
EDIT: Here's a cheatsheet to refer to the comments below.
What is a Stigmata like?
Stigmatas are conscientious and value-driven. They seek meaning in relationships, ideas, and events, with an eye toward better understanding of themselves and others. Using their intuitive skills, they develop a clear and confident vision, which they then set out to execute, aiming to better the lives of others. Like their INTJ counterparts, Stigmatas regard problems as opportunities to design and implement creative solutions.
Stigmatas have been mistaken for extroverts, as they can adapt easily in social situations due to their complex understanding of an individual's motivations; however, they are true introverts. Stigmatas are private individuals who prefer to exercise their influence behind the scenes. Though they are very independent, Stigmatas are intensely interested in the well-being of others. Stigmatas prefer one-on-one relationships to large groups. Sensitive and complex, they are adept at understanding complicated issues and driven to resolve differences in a cooperative and creative manner.
Stigmatas tend to be sensitive, quiet leaders with a great depth of personality. They are intricately, deeply woven, mysterious, highly complex, and often puzzling, even to themselves. They have an orderly view toward the world but are internally arranged in a complex way that only they can understand. Abstract in communicating, they live in a world of hidden meanings and possibilities. With a natural affinity for art, Stigmatas tend to be creative and easily inspired, yet they may also do well in the sciences, aided by their intuition.
Myers Briggs Type Indicators types are psychological indicators created by Carl Jung. It's a simple but powerful tool to help you and others appreciate the way your mind works. I'd love it if people added an MBTI to their reference sheets, but just getting the concept out in a journal is good enough for me.
Find your Myers Briggs type. (I'm an INFJ)
Search your four letters on Wikipedia. Find/replace your name with your letters, and you may be surprised by the results!
EDIT: Here's a cheatsheet to refer to the comments below.
Brief Hiatus: Sickmata
General | Posted 12 years agoCommission Queue • Ask Me Anything • Art/Life ProTips
My deepest apologies to my fans and clients. My promise to return to work by December 30th had to be broken. The short of it is that I have the flu and can't easily work. The long of it is that I am having some awful cramps, restless nights, constant fatigue, unpleasant Sick dreams™, and require bathroom breaks every fifteen minutes.
Thank you all for your patience as I try to recover. Know that my assignments are ever in my thoughts!
My deepest apologies to my fans and clients. My promise to return to work by December 30th had to be broken. The short of it is that I have the flu and can't easily work. The long of it is that I am having some awful cramps, restless nights, constant fatigue, unpleasant Sick dreams™, and require bathroom breaks every fifteen minutes.
Thank you all for your patience as I try to recover. Know that my assignments are ever in my thoughts!
Christmas Break! Returning 12/29
General | Posted 12 years agoCommission Queue • Ask Me Anything • Art/Life ProTips
I'm not the biggest fan of Christmas, since it's a very bittersweet endeavour after working in the food court for so many years during the holidays (especially Christmas Eve), and having admittedly superficial meanings shoehorned in there. But at the end of a new year I'm driving to Atlanta to hang out with great people and spend time w/the Missus, and that's what counts.
In case my internet situation is less than optimal, I'll be back in a week. Thanks to my new and old watchers for your kindness. Can't wait to do more chatting and streaming with you very soon, and I hope your Christmas week leaves you a better person than when you entered!
I'm not the biggest fan of Christmas, since it's a very bittersweet endeavour after working in the food court for so many years during the holidays (especially Christmas Eve), and having admittedly superficial meanings shoehorned in there. But at the end of a new year I'm driving to Atlanta to hang out with great people and spend time w/the Missus, and that's what counts.
In case my internet situation is less than optimal, I'll be back in a week. Thanks to my new and old watchers for your kindness. Can't wait to do more chatting and streaming with you very soon, and I hope your Christmas week leaves you a better person than when you entered!
[SIGNAL BOOST] [GRASSHOPPER MODE] Free Sketches
General | Posted 12 years agoCommission Queue • Ask Me Anything • Art/Life ProTips
This is all about
coryphaeus
One of my friends recently moved very close to me, so we're planning how we can get his new life off on the right art-foot™. Although he has much experience in design and commercial art, he's still getting his feet wet with character commissions. Our aesthetics and tastes are pretty compatible, so if you're watching me I'm sure you'll enjoy what he's offering.
Visit this journal for some free art:
http://www.furaffinity.net/journal/5316506/
http://www.furaffinity.net/journal/5316506/
http://www.furaffinity.net/journal/5316506/
This is all about
coryphaeusOne of my friends recently moved very close to me, so we're planning how we can get his new life off on the right art-foot™. Although he has much experience in design and commercial art, he's still getting his feet wet with character commissions. Our aesthetics and tastes are pretty compatible, so if you're watching me I'm sure you'll enjoy what he's offering.
Visit this journal for some free art:
http://www.furaffinity.net/journal/5316506/
http://www.furaffinity.net/journal/5316506/
http://www.furaffinity.net/journal/5316506/
MFF2013 Report + Post-Con Depression
General | Posted 12 years agoCommission Queue • Ask Me Anything • Art/Life ProTips
My con experience, as pasted from a Facebook status:
Summarizing my Chicago experience would be really difficult to do. I'll settle for the following:
-My friend, Christy, is an amazing host, and knows what's good.
-Metropolitan life is more beautiful and sad than I remembered. It's more everything.
-I hope I never do another sketchbook commission*.
-I accidentally packed my [human] paintings and then accidentally sold them.
-Countless generous friends gifted me with drinks, food, art, conversations, and time.
-Making a friend and then working for him/her is so much better than working on corporate IPs.
-This time I didn't get lost…until I drove off for home in the wrong direction.
And now, my actual FA Journal:
Midwest Furfest 2013
After six hours of driving, I'm back in the comforts of home, second MFF was exponentially better than the last. Even without participating in the Art Show and Dealer's Den, the Artist Alley proved to be more active than ever. I was able to sell the majority of my prints, framed prints, and originals! And speaking of sales, this was the first time I ever did sketchbook commissions. *I found out I can handle those if I have enough reference material, and don't burry my nose in it during AA hours. Yes, more exciting commissions await!
As a policy, I no longer try to include a list of all the people that touched to my lives at any given convention. So here's my catch-all: you all extended love to me, and I appreciated it sincerely. Whether you bought me a drink, found a fun payment for a colour badge, purchased my art to decorate your home, or just sat next to me, thank you for sharing your time and energy with me!
Post-con Depression
When hotaruARC and I were between events, we briefly spoke on the idea of post-con depression. I wanted to bring the subject to a public platform. This applies at least to Stigmata's Con-Experiences, but I hope you will find it useful somehow.
A convention of like-minded people can be a great place to let loose and be yourself. The furry fandom in particular seems to be a majority of kind people comfortable in their own skins, so being anything other than yourself around a bunch of animal costumes makes you the silly one.
Still, if one goes to a furry convention, one no longer has the comforts of his own home when he accidentally does something awkward. His anxieties may push him to say things he'll later beat himself up over. Still, that's the price you pay to meet artists, crushes, celebrities, whomever you want to experience. When you get to meet an artist in person—whether they realize this or not—they are allowing you to understand their work on a whole new level. Same thing for clients, fans, anyone. Their personages, their essences of being,is experienced far beyond what a comment or journal could ever provide.
Understandably, these friendship circles and weekends of having fun and being unabashedly you can end after producing what is commonly known as "Post-Con Depression". After going to about fourteen conventions, I can say each time the slumps lessen, and now I understand why. Cons no longer became special cases for my behaviours or actions. I interact with everyone online the same way I do in person, I always try to push my commissions to a level of personality befitting a discussion in person, and I am able to view a brief interaction with a new friend and love it for what it is: a very, very short season.
I never return from a conventions as the same person. Cons are a time for me to pay as close attention as possible to as many people as I can. At my healthiest, I believe I can encourage a person to be slightly better off than before they interacted with me. If I listen closely, every person I meet can be a teacher to me. Now that MFF is done, I'm less saddened and more preoccupied with these responsibilities that have been dropped into my lap. If you taught me anything today, you have my sincerest thanks. I hope I was able to give something in return.
My con experience, as pasted from a Facebook status:
Summarizing my Chicago experience would be really difficult to do. I'll settle for the following:
-My friend, Christy, is an amazing host, and knows what's good.
-Metropolitan life is more beautiful and sad than I remembered. It's more everything.
-I hope I never do another sketchbook commission*.
-I accidentally packed my [human] paintings and then accidentally sold them.
-Countless generous friends gifted me with drinks, food, art, conversations, and time.
-Making a friend and then working for him/her is so much better than working on corporate IPs.
-This time I didn't get lost…until I drove off for home in the wrong direction.
And now, my actual FA Journal:
Midwest Furfest 2013
After six hours of driving, I'm back in the comforts of home, second MFF was exponentially better than the last. Even without participating in the Art Show and Dealer's Den, the Artist Alley proved to be more active than ever. I was able to sell the majority of my prints, framed prints, and originals! And speaking of sales, this was the first time I ever did sketchbook commissions. *I found out I can handle those if I have enough reference material, and don't burry my nose in it during AA hours. Yes, more exciting commissions await!
As a policy, I no longer try to include a list of all the people that touched to my lives at any given convention. So here's my catch-all: you all extended love to me, and I appreciated it sincerely. Whether you bought me a drink, found a fun payment for a colour badge, purchased my art to decorate your home, or just sat next to me, thank you for sharing your time and energy with me!
Post-con Depression
When hotaruARC and I were between events, we briefly spoke on the idea of post-con depression. I wanted to bring the subject to a public platform. This applies at least to Stigmata's Con-Experiences, but I hope you will find it useful somehow.
A convention of like-minded people can be a great place to let loose and be yourself. The furry fandom in particular seems to be a majority of kind people comfortable in their own skins, so being anything other than yourself around a bunch of animal costumes makes you the silly one.
Still, if one goes to a furry convention, one no longer has the comforts of his own home when he accidentally does something awkward. His anxieties may push him to say things he'll later beat himself up over. Still, that's the price you pay to meet artists, crushes, celebrities, whomever you want to experience. When you get to meet an artist in person—whether they realize this or not—they are allowing you to understand their work on a whole new level. Same thing for clients, fans, anyone. Their personages, their essences of being,is experienced far beyond what a comment or journal could ever provide.
Understandably, these friendship circles and weekends of having fun and being unabashedly you can end after producing what is commonly known as "Post-Con Depression". After going to about fourteen conventions, I can say each time the slumps lessen, and now I understand why. Cons no longer became special cases for my behaviours or actions. I interact with everyone online the same way I do in person, I always try to push my commissions to a level of personality befitting a discussion in person, and I am able to view a brief interaction with a new friend and love it for what it is: a very, very short season.
I never return from a conventions as the same person. Cons are a time for me to pay as close attention as possible to as many people as I can. At my healthiest, I believe I can encourage a person to be slightly better off than before they interacted with me. If I listen closely, every person I meet can be a teacher to me. Now that MFF is done, I'm less saddened and more preoccupied with these responsibilities that have been dropped into my lap. If you taught me anything today, you have my sincerest thanks. I hope I was able to give something in return.
Ready for MFF 2013!
General | Posted 12 years agoCommission Queue • Ask Me Anything • Art/Life ProTips
I made it to Chicago! I'm staying with a friend just a few blacks away from Boy Town (which would make for a completely different furry con).
I'll be in the Artist Alley Fri-Sun, selling :
-Stigsketches slots
-Commission slots
-Framed prints
-Double sided frame stands
sadbucket.tumblr.com/post/55790461823/from-ac-2013-colour-badges-one-not-actually
Oh yeah, I look like this.
I'm also a judge at the Iron Artist competition on 7PM, Saturday.
I love meeting people, and would be honoured by your presence, so please don't hesitate to say hello. C:
I made it to Chicago! I'm staying with a friend just a few blacks away from Boy Town (which would make for a completely different furry con).
I'll be in the Artist Alley Fri-Sun, selling :
-Stigsketches slots
-Commission slots
-Framed prints
-Double sided frame stands
sadbucket.tumblr.com/post/55790461823/from-ac-2013-colour-badges-one-not-actually
Oh yeah, I look like this.
I'm also a judge at the Iron Artist competition on 7PM, Saturday.
I love meeting people, and would be honoured by your presence, so please don't hesitate to say hello. C:
The Grasshopper and The Ant: Surviving Off of Your Art
General | Posted 12 years agoCommission Queue • Ask Me Anything • Art/Life ProTips
Hey, new watchers, readers, and others! Here's a personal journal to start the day off. Skip to the bottom for a signal bump.
Sometimes I get asked about how I am able to make a living off of my art. And when people at furry cons figure out virtually all of my work in on FA alone, their ears really start to perk up (sorry). I thought I'd briefly summarize how I made the transition from doing commissions between classes to supporting myself solely on my art.
In 2009 I went to my first convention, SIGGRAPH 2009, before the start of my junior year of college. It was the first time professionals told me I was definitely good-enough to work in the entertainment industry, though a lack of focus retarded the usefulness of my portfolio.
Now, in 2013, I have too many commissions to handle. In fact, the biggest limit on my income is my ability to balance rush and/or non-disclosure jobs with my more involved furry commissions in the queue. Aside from loans, I'm living in a pretty modest place in the midwest, almost never eat out, and virtually never see movies, buy videogames, or other accessories to entertainment. While this model isn't easily sustainable, it's the difficult and scary road I chose to travel.
In art, or really, transitioning to anything you love, you have two roads to "success". Consider either one of these insects to be your Spirit Animal (again, sorry).
Ant Mode™. This is the road my brother picked. He graduated from school a few semesters early, took a job at a print shop that paid kinda-sorta decently—but didn't pay what he was worth—and any art he created was after he was tired and home alone and wanting to spend time with his wife/my sister (whose career is a completely different story altogether). His time for art is minimal, but he takes what he can get. His time working a consistent job has allowed him to save up for an emergency fund, plus several months of expenses, and helped his wife transition into her art career. He also got to attend a couple of illustration conventions to confirm his needed direction in art. Three years after graduation, he's in a great position to switch to full-time art without compromising his desire to provide for his wife, travel, and rarely purchase an accoutrement or two. He can also afford insurances. Practically, the only thing separating him from a fulfilling career in illustration is the switch, but even if his car breaks down or he gets mono for a month, he's probably going to be fine.
Grasshopper Mode™. This is the road I picked. I offered free sketches on FA in 2006, opened commissions in 2007, and didn't get commissioned until 2008! This was during college, (same college and major as my sister and brother), and often I'd compromise assignments for class work. I floundered around not knowing whether I wanted to do concept art, fine art, or illustration, and that kept me from having a young art-rocket career that everyone envies. My last two years of college I lucked out and lived without rent, hours away from my parents. By the time of my wedding, I had picked up and dropped off several food-industry jobs. These jobs were initially quit because I was making less than I'd make on art. but returning to those kinds of jobs is not fun, especially remembering when three years prior, people wanted to hire me to work the entertainment industry. Still, I'd rather be a fry cook than design logos in a business firm. Currently, my wife and I are able to meet our expenses while she works and completes school, we eat like kings thanks to our cooking prowess, and I get to draw every day for at least eight hours. Going to conventions, selling things online, and building rep is working in my favour. Yet, when I was struck with mono for a couple months, I was almost completely boned: I missed a convention that was supposed to fulfill my expenses for two months, and for almost a solid month I couldn't effectively draw at all.
I'd like to tell you there's a universally right and a wrong lifestyle choice, but it's not that simple. Grasshopper Mode™ can be a tough when an emergency happens and you don't know how you and your wife are going to make it. Ants don't have to worry about that, but I'm sure there are times when artists living in Ant Mode™ are mad at themselves for how little they get to draw. In truth, those modes are something you have to toggle. I'm convinced that today I have the greatest job ever, and I have more work experience than most of my peers thanks to FA. But I'm also walking a tightrope over a bunch of Hellraiser sharks covered in lemon juice and swimming in bleach.
Tl;dr: Art careers can be built on strong or shaky foundations. Each has its own costs. Grasshoppers rule. s:J
Signal Boost: A dear friend, a brother grasshopper, is being tested for the first time. His situation is more than familiar to me. Those generous and able participants in the fandom can trust him to create fresh and lasting visual solutions, so please visit
vet with my blessings!
Hey, new watchers, readers, and others! Here's a personal journal to start the day off. Skip to the bottom for a signal bump.
Sometimes I get asked about how I am able to make a living off of my art. And when people at furry cons figure out virtually all of my work in on FA alone, their ears really start to perk up (sorry). I thought I'd briefly summarize how I made the transition from doing commissions between classes to supporting myself solely on my art.
In 2009 I went to my first convention, SIGGRAPH 2009, before the start of my junior year of college. It was the first time professionals told me I was definitely good-enough to work in the entertainment industry, though a lack of focus retarded the usefulness of my portfolio.
Now, in 2013, I have too many commissions to handle. In fact, the biggest limit on my income is my ability to balance rush and/or non-disclosure jobs with my more involved furry commissions in the queue. Aside from loans, I'm living in a pretty modest place in the midwest, almost never eat out, and virtually never see movies, buy videogames, or other accessories to entertainment. While this model isn't easily sustainable, it's the difficult and scary road I chose to travel.
In art, or really, transitioning to anything you love, you have two roads to "success". Consider either one of these insects to be your Spirit Animal (again, sorry).
Ant Mode™. This is the road my brother picked. He graduated from school a few semesters early, took a job at a print shop that paid kinda-sorta decently—but didn't pay what he was worth—and any art he created was after he was tired and home alone and wanting to spend time with his wife/my sister (whose career is a completely different story altogether). His time for art is minimal, but he takes what he can get. His time working a consistent job has allowed him to save up for an emergency fund, plus several months of expenses, and helped his wife transition into her art career. He also got to attend a couple of illustration conventions to confirm his needed direction in art. Three years after graduation, he's in a great position to switch to full-time art without compromising his desire to provide for his wife, travel, and rarely purchase an accoutrement or two. He can also afford insurances. Practically, the only thing separating him from a fulfilling career in illustration is the switch, but even if his car breaks down or he gets mono for a month, he's probably going to be fine.
Grasshopper Mode™. This is the road I picked. I offered free sketches on FA in 2006, opened commissions in 2007, and didn't get commissioned until 2008! This was during college, (same college and major as my sister and brother), and often I'd compromise assignments for class work. I floundered around not knowing whether I wanted to do concept art, fine art, or illustration, and that kept me from having a young art-rocket career that everyone envies. My last two years of college I lucked out and lived without rent, hours away from my parents. By the time of my wedding, I had picked up and dropped off several food-industry jobs. These jobs were initially quit because I was making less than I'd make on art. but returning to those kinds of jobs is not fun, especially remembering when three years prior, people wanted to hire me to work the entertainment industry. Still, I'd rather be a fry cook than design logos in a business firm. Currently, my wife and I are able to meet our expenses while she works and completes school, we eat like kings thanks to our cooking prowess, and I get to draw every day for at least eight hours. Going to conventions, selling things online, and building rep is working in my favour. Yet, when I was struck with mono for a couple months, I was almost completely boned: I missed a convention that was supposed to fulfill my expenses for two months, and for almost a solid month I couldn't effectively draw at all.
I'd like to tell you there's a universally right and a wrong lifestyle choice, but it's not that simple. Grasshopper Mode™ can be a tough when an emergency happens and you don't know how you and your wife are going to make it. Ants don't have to worry about that, but I'm sure there are times when artists living in Ant Mode™ are mad at themselves for how little they get to draw. In truth, those modes are something you have to toggle. I'm convinced that today I have the greatest job ever, and I have more work experience than most of my peers thanks to FA. But I'm also walking a tightrope over a bunch of Hellraiser sharks covered in lemon juice and swimming in bleach.
Tl;dr: Art careers can be built on strong or shaky foundations. Each has its own costs. Grasshoppers rule. s:J
Signal Boost: A dear friend, a brother grasshopper, is being tested for the first time. His situation is more than familiar to me. Those generous and able participants in the fandom can trust him to create fresh and lasting visual solutions, so please visit
vet with my blessings!MFF 2013
General | Posted 12 years agoCommission Queue • Ask Me Anything • Art/Life ProTips
MFF:Chicago, you beautiful mistress.
I'm also going to be a judge at the Iron Artist happening at 7PM on Saturday.
I missed out on registration for the Art Show and Dealer's Den, which I'm still kicking myself over, but I'll probably get an Artist Alley Table to buffer out some of my expenses. Sticking to the AA all day is a crappy way to spend your time, so I'll try to buffer that out with some fun times on the side.
I'd be honoured by your presence if you stopped by and offered a bit of your time to say hello, so don't be shy!
Unrelated Life: Life is harder than ever, but I'm also stronger than ever. Or maybe I know my limits better. I'll continue doing my best and sharing my work with you all. Thank you for your watches, comments, favourites, and other forms of support. Your positive efforts continue to make my life a little bit richer each time I check my inbox. <3
MFF:Chicago, you beautiful mistress.
I'm also going to be a judge at the Iron Artist happening at 7PM on Saturday.
I missed out on registration for the Art Show and Dealer's Den, which I'm still kicking myself over, but I'll probably get an Artist Alley Table to buffer out some of my expenses. Sticking to the AA all day is a crappy way to spend your time, so I'll try to buffer that out with some fun times on the side.
I'd be honoured by your presence if you stopped by and offered a bit of your time to say hello, so don't be shy!
Unrelated Life: Life is harder than ever, but I'm also stronger than ever. Or maybe I know my limits better. I'll continue doing my best and sharing my work with you all. Thank you for your watches, comments, favourites, and other forms of support. Your positive efforts continue to make my life a little bit richer each time I check my inbox. <3
Art/Life ProTips
General | Posted 12 years agoCommission Queue • Ask Me Anything • Art/Life ProTips
Cool emotes will always be funny to me. "Yeah, I'm feeling cool!"
—Ahem—
See that link at the top of every journal, the one titled "Art/Life ProTips? I'm currently updating that list, and thought it'd be a reminder to anyone serious about art, or at least my experiences, to have a look at it. I'm not popular-enough to call it a FAQ, but it has answers to questions I wish more people would ask. The bottom line of the list is that being a successful artist is a decision to live a genuine life, extending way beyond the canvas.
That is all. Thanks, guys. Please continue with your browsing. c:
Cool emotes will always be funny to me. "Yeah, I'm feeling cool!"
—Ahem—
See that link at the top of every journal, the one titled "Art/Life ProTips? I'm currently updating that list, and thought it'd be a reminder to anyone serious about art, or at least my experiences, to have a look at it. I'm not popular-enough to call it a FAQ, but it has answers to questions I wish more people would ask. The bottom line of the list is that being a successful artist is a decision to live a genuine life, extending way beyond the canvas.
That is all. Thanks, guys. Please continue with your browsing. c:
FA Meme
General | Posted 12 years agoCommission Queue • Ask Me Anything • Art/Life ProTips
My apologies, all. I accidentally deleted this journal by editing over it. Now all we'll have to remember it by is the comments. I feel like an internet grandma. ):
My apologies, all. I accidentally deleted this journal by editing over it. Now all we'll have to remember it by is the comments. I feel like an internet grandma. ):
Want some amazing avian action figures?
General | Posted 12 years agoCommission Queue • Ask Me Anything • Art/Life ProTips
Now is your chance:
http://www.kickstarter.com/projects.....-four-horsemen
Really, there are tons of other designs, but I am REALLY impressed. I want all of them. :C
Now is your chance:
http://www.kickstarter.com/projects.....-four-horsemen
Really, there are tons of other designs, but I am REALLY impressed. I want all of them. :C
Commission Queue (Updated as of 6.10.15)
General | Posted 12 years agoCommission Queue • Ask Me Anything • Art/Life ProTips
THIS QUEUE IS NO LONGER ACTIVE! PLEASE VISIT THE FOLLOWING JOURNAL FOR THE MOST CURRENT QUEUE:
http://www.furaffinity.net/journal/6888267/
http://www.furaffinity.net/journal/6888267/
http://www.furaffinity.net/journal/6888267/
Last Updated 6.10.15
ATTENTION CLIENTS: If you haven't noted me yet, please send me an email at jonathanvair (at) gmail (dotcom) that includes character reference drawings and good animal photos if possible.
[s]The following list shows my progress. If you check out my join.me page you can normally catch my commission work live.
Illustration
1) Izix (Illustration)
2) Sawolf151 (1 Full Character Illustration)
3) Quixote (TF Illust)
4) Deadbeat (Illustration)
5) Stripetail [NP]
Sketches
Slots immediately available!
1) Deo (Stigsketch x5) (+4)
2) Kyu (Stigsketch x2)
3) Sawolf151 (Alchemy Portrait x2)+1
4) Skunktalks (Alchemy Portraitx1)
5) DeludedChimera (Stigsketchx1) +1
6) [Kyari] (Oilsketchx2)
7) t0xez (Stigsketchx2)
8) Shiranai225 (Stigsketchx3) <3
9) [Kyari] (Oilsketchx1)
10) Nekotsuma (Stigsketchx2.5)
11) lineage26 (Stigsketchx2)
12) Nekotsuma (Stigsketchx3)
13) Nullreff (Stigsketchx1)
14) Neongangsta (Stigsketchx1)
15) Hjoldir-Hildwulf (Oilsketchx2)
16) Signey (Stigsketchx1)
17) Herr-Wozzeck (Stigsketchx1)
18) Kenoshi (Stigsketchx1)
19) Shaku (Stigsketchx2)
20) Lonely Whisp (Stigsketchx2) <3
21) Derecho (Stigsketchx2)
22) Wolfman (Stigsketch x2)
23) PrintsCharming (Stigsketch x1) <3
24) Deadbeat_hyena (Stigsketch x 6)
25) Meora Hedva (Stigsketch x1)
26) jaavik (Stigsketch x1) <
27) Rahzr (Stigsketch x1)
28) Buckwolf89 (Stigsketch x1) <3
29) Ryan Carthage (Stigsketch x1)
30) FenderMcBender (Stigsketch x1) <3
31) Rahzr (Stigsketch x2)
31) lilwerecat356 (Stigsketch x1)
32) Deadbeat (Stigsketchx1)
33) Woofwoofwoof (Stigsketchx3)
34) H-Dub (Stigsketchx3)
35) Ursus Artist (Stigsketchx1)
33) Ishaway (Stigsketch1)
34) Bengal0 (Stigsketchx1)
35) Inkbird (Stigsketchx1) <3
36) Inkbird (Stigsketchx1) <3
37) Zavada <3
38) DiscordNight (Stigsketch Upgrade)
39) Bion (Oilsketch x 2)
40) Kashjew (Stigsketch x 2)
41) Mustbemantis (Stigsketch)
42) Lolosh
43) TreeWeasel
44) Ghouly
45) Damaratus (Oilsketch x2)
46) Treeweasel (upgrade)
47) PsychoticPorcupine
48) Bauson
49) Kodalynx
50) Underscore
51) Jive
52) Vilvi (Alchemy Portrait)
53) Lobodiablo
54) BloodPath_Duke
55) Reddd (SS1)
56) Doirn (SS1)
57) Ziggyzoom (SS2)
58) Sieran
59) Arkarian
60) Lobodiablo
61) Haubitze (Alch Port 2)
62) Xipoid (Alch Port 2)
63) Vahnfox (SS1)
64) Khan (Alch Port 2)
65) Ziggyzoom (SS2)
66) Sieran (AP1)
67) Virens (Design x4)
68) Arkerian (OS 1)
69) Deovacuus (Oilsketch x ∞)
70) Nexuu (SS x3)
71) Cerberus_Shepard (SS x3)
72) RodneyTheDivineDevil (AP1)
73) PsychoticPorcupine (SS1)[/s]
[NP]= Not Paid, and/or Details Pending
THIS QUEUE IS NO LONGER ACTIVE! PLEASE VISIT THE FOLLOWING JOURNAL FOR THE MOST CURRENT QUEUE:
http://www.furaffinity.net/journal/6888267/
http://www.furaffinity.net/journal/6888267/
http://www.furaffinity.net/journal/6888267/
Last Updated 6.10.15
ATTENTION CLIENTS: If you haven't noted me yet, please send me an email at jonathanvair (at) gmail (dotcom) that includes character reference drawings and good animal photos if possible.
[s]The following list shows my progress. If you check out my join.me page you can normally catch my commission work live.
Illustration
2) Sawolf151 (1 Full Character Illustration)
3) Quixote (TF Illust)
4) Deadbeat (Illustration)
5) Stripetail [NP]
Sketches
Slots immediately available!
2) Kyu (Stigsketch x2)
3) Sawolf151 (Alchemy Portrait x2)
5) DeludedChimera (Stigsketchx1) +1
6) [Kyari] (Oilsketchx2)
7) t0xez (Stigsketchx2)
8) Shiranai225 (Stigsketchx3) <3
9) [Kyari] (Oilsketchx1)
10) Nekotsuma (Stigsketchx2.5)
11) lineage26 (Stigsketchx2)
12) Nekotsuma (Stigsketchx3)
13) Nullreff (Stigsketchx1)
14) Neongangsta (Stigsketchx1)
15) Hjoldir-Hildwulf (Oilsketchx2)
16) Signey (Stigsketchx1)
17) Herr-Wozzeck (Stigsketchx1)
18) Kenoshi (Stigsketchx1)
19) Shaku (Stigsketchx2)
20) Lonely Whisp (Stigsketchx2) <3
21) Derecho (Stigsketchx2)
22) Wolfman (Stigsketch x2)
23) PrintsCharming (Stigsketch x1) <3
24) Deadbeat_hyena (Stigsketch x 6)
25) Meora Hedva (Stigsketch x1)
26) jaavik (Stigsketch x1) <
27) Rahzr (Stigsketch x1)
28) Buckwolf89 (Stigsketch x1) <3
29) Ryan Carthage (Stigsketch x1)
30) FenderMcBender (Stigsketch x1) <3
31) Rahzr (Stigsketch x2)
31) lilwerecat356 (Stigsketch x1)
32) Deadbeat (Stigsketchx1)
33) Woofwoofwoof (Stigsketchx3)
34) H-Dub (Stigsketchx3)
35) Ursus Artist (Stigsketchx1)
33) Ishaway (Stigsketch1)
34) Bengal0 (Stigsketchx1)
35) Inkbird (Stigsketchx1) <3
36) Inkbird (Stigsketchx1) <3
37) Zavada <3
38) DiscordNight (Stigsketch Upgrade)
39) Bion (Oilsketch x 2)
40) Kashjew (Stigsketch x 2)
41) Mustbemantis (Stigsketch)
42) Lolosh
43) TreeWeasel
44) Ghouly
45) Damaratus (Oilsketch x2)
46) Treeweasel (upgrade)
47) PsychoticPorcupine
48) Bauson
49) Kodalynx
50) Underscore
51) Jive
52) Vilvi (Alchemy Portrait)
53) Lobodiablo
54) BloodPath_Duke
55) Reddd (SS1)
56) Doirn (SS1)
57) Ziggyzoom (SS2)
58) Sieran
59) Arkarian
60) Lobodiablo
61) Haubitze (Alch Port 2)
62) Xipoid (Alch Port 2)
63) Vahnfox (SS1)
64) Khan (Alch Port 2)
65) Ziggyzoom (SS2)
66) Sieran (AP1)
67) Virens (Design x4)
68) Arkerian (OS 1)
69) Deovacuus (Oilsketch x ∞)
70) Nexuu (SS x3)
71) Cerberus_Shepard (SS x3)
72) RodneyTheDivineDevil (AP1)
73) PsychoticPorcupine (SS1)[/s]
[NP]= Not Paid, and/or Details Pending
Post-Anthrocon Journal: Part II
General | Posted 12 years agoAs promised, I am here to offer a Part II to my Anthrocon experiences. I apologize for how huge this is. The writing is awful and the content is mainly for my own records, but those of you with too much time on your hands could pretend you were me, I guess.
Clients: please bare with me. I accidentally left my receipts in Columbus, so tomorrow you should expect to have an email ready!
Believe it or not, here's the short version of this journal that doesn't include absolutely everybody:
It's easy for a typical convention attendee to assume Anthrocon prep starts a week beforehand, but for most artists that couldn't be further from the truth. That's why I chose to start this journal entry a solid month away from the start of Anthrocon.
After buying prints, frames, figuring out poster orders, travel itineraries, and scheduling family time across the state of Ohio, I was left with little time to complete older commissions as promised. I try my best to make my word my bond, even when it's inconvenient for me, but sometimes I miss that mark, and for that I'm truly sorry.
After picking up orel/veter-/Vet from the NKY airport on late Tuesday afternoon, he started his almost complete tour of my immediate family. By the end of AC he and I visited three generations of my family. Naturally, they were all charmed. So much so, in fact, that I'm fairly certain they prefer him over me. While in Canton, Mom and Vet really pulled through to help me make the most out of the remaining days before the con.
The drive to Pitt was great—no traffic, no confusion, and no settling for expensive and distant parking!
The two of us were able to relax before the rest of our room arrived. After getting my name on the board, something that is likely to change as more friends arrive, we met up with awesome clients mish-mash and nexu, who generously provided a delicious Korean meal and great conversation! They were as kind to me in real life as online. What a winning couple!
With even more time to spare, Vet and I went to complete registration. After making fun of how long his line was, it turned out I was waiting in the wrong line, myself. The end of my line brought about a brief but delightful conversation with another awesome client/friend, derecho. I drew a really lame drawing in his sketchbook, which proved that I could do lame drawings all day if I had to. That was foreshadowing.
Eventually I met up with Toulouse, and together we spent several hours working on our Dealer's Den table, a poetic tribute to the dichotomy of the blue-collar on in an internet subculture (read: finger-painted sign).
The Dealer's Den wasn't what I expected. Thanks to some tips from Vantid, I'm prepared to have my posters in a more easily sellable format. But even with that guidance, she and I agreed our more popular prints weren't the big sellers. For example, this is an image of all of my poster orders for pickup (That one wash't picked up, which makes it even funnier). Guess The Westin had something in the water! During Friday afternoon, I fell ill from fatigue and overworking, and had to exit the Dealer's Den early. This would mark the pattern of needing early evening naps to sustain myself.
When I wasn't hawking off prints, shooting the breeze, or getting commissions, I was getting questions about badges. Most everyone knows my doodles are pretty crappy, but that didn't stop me from trying color badges. If you want your badge, you have to bring me any object that is primarily a colour of my choosing. linkcannedtalent: and coyox thought I was drunk when they heard about this, but I don't blame them in the least. The Zoo is a breeding ground for stupidity, and "Hey Matt. You have to commission me. It costs one green," at 12:30AM is a suspiciously good deal.
Saturday's DD experience saw the most inter-artist socializing. I'll give a list of some highlights from this time, though there were many more:
- Every. Single. One. Of my commissions were of cool character designs and exciting concepts. I am so incredibly spoiled by these clients!
- centradragon was kind-enough to visit our table not once, but twice!
- shanerefus isn't Pac, but everyone agrees Pac should still come to a con, so get on that.
- One night ago I told a couple of my friends that Keovi was an asshole (I name dropped in a moment of weakness). But when she visited my table the morning after I realized I paired her name with another face, and got to meet her/apologize in person! She is so kind, and not an asshole at all. You go, Keovi.
- riptideshark and kellervo had us thinkin' 'bout sharks all day, all day. It's true. We chanted and danced. Someone got a video, I think.
- Orel, Rampack, Knuxlight, and Analon were tables I was able to visit in the AA. I missed the others, regrettably, but their setups and wares were excellent!
- ianjay and chickenteeth were killing it. They're comic powerhouses that make the DD so much better, and I can't wait to communicate with 'em later about my own comic-smithing endeavours!
- thewanderingangel, v-smok, cisqur and plenty of other people regularly checked up on me to make sure I was bouncing back from my illness and stressors.
- trek, rucksack, and yumil Three people I first knew outside of the fandom had surprised me in the DD!
- When Jasonmiller answered this by saying "When I was in preschool, I wanted to be a snake and a criminal."
- Anything deviantterra
- All the previous clients that wanted to say hello!
Saturday night, many of us met at an overpriced restaurant, where exactly 50% percent of the service was horrible. I assume of this party, one person left this skeleton hoodie. It looks awesome, but it isn't mine. Hook a brother up with an address! At the Zoo, Maybemantis/Suchamantis/mightbemantis/definitelymantis premiered her partial, which was ridiculously cute.
Sunday, xyphoid/Doug invited me to dinner with our FWA circle, which was incredibly delicious and fun. But on my way down to the restaurant I was able to say a hello to lone.companion and bosshog! Dinner conversation was great, but near the end I was especially interested about talking of Weasyl's potential. Exciting furry things could be on the horizon!
I want to wrap this up, quickly, so apologies for not doing the last days justice. ke joined our room last minute, and he's swell. Also turns out I relate to Vet on a disturbingly large amount of things! Despite this character flaw, Justina and I really enjoyed his company, and in the few days he was visiting we felt really encouraged by his presence. A++ guest, would house again.
PS: I have more AC videos to upload. One is of me making a creeper face at malkyru, and it's delicious.
Clients: please bare with me. I accidentally left my receipts in Columbus, so tomorrow you should expect to have an email ready!
Believe it or not, here's the short version of this journal that doesn't include absolutely everybody:
It's easy for a typical convention attendee to assume Anthrocon prep starts a week beforehand, but for most artists that couldn't be further from the truth. That's why I chose to start this journal entry a solid month away from the start of Anthrocon.
After buying prints, frames, figuring out poster orders, travel itineraries, and scheduling family time across the state of Ohio, I was left with little time to complete older commissions as promised. I try my best to make my word my bond, even when it's inconvenient for me, but sometimes I miss that mark, and for that I'm truly sorry.
After picking up orel/veter-/Vet from the NKY airport on late Tuesday afternoon, he started his almost complete tour of my immediate family. By the end of AC he and I visited three generations of my family. Naturally, they were all charmed. So much so, in fact, that I'm fairly certain they prefer him over me. While in Canton, Mom and Vet really pulled through to help me make the most out of the remaining days before the con.
The drive to Pitt was great—no traffic, no confusion, and no settling for expensive and distant parking!
The two of us were able to relax before the rest of our room arrived. After getting my name on the board, something that is likely to change as more friends arrive, we met up with awesome clients mish-mash and nexu, who generously provided a delicious Korean meal and great conversation! They were as kind to me in real life as online. What a winning couple!
With even more time to spare, Vet and I went to complete registration. After making fun of how long his line was, it turned out I was waiting in the wrong line, myself. The end of my line brought about a brief but delightful conversation with another awesome client/friend, derecho. I drew a really lame drawing in his sketchbook, which proved that I could do lame drawings all day if I had to. That was foreshadowing.
Eventually I met up with Toulouse, and together we spent several hours working on our Dealer's Den table, a poetic tribute to the dichotomy of the blue-collar on in an internet subculture (read: finger-painted sign).
The Dealer's Den wasn't what I expected. Thanks to some tips from Vantid, I'm prepared to have my posters in a more easily sellable format. But even with that guidance, she and I agreed our more popular prints weren't the big sellers. For example, this is an image of all of my poster orders for pickup (That one wash't picked up, which makes it even funnier). Guess The Westin had something in the water! During Friday afternoon, I fell ill from fatigue and overworking, and had to exit the Dealer's Den early. This would mark the pattern of needing early evening naps to sustain myself.
When I wasn't hawking off prints, shooting the breeze, or getting commissions, I was getting questions about badges. Most everyone knows my doodles are pretty crappy, but that didn't stop me from trying color badges. If you want your badge, you have to bring me any object that is primarily a colour of my choosing. linkcannedtalent: and coyox thought I was drunk when they heard about this, but I don't blame them in the least. The Zoo is a breeding ground for stupidity, and "Hey Matt. You have to commission me. It costs one green," at 12:30AM is a suspiciously good deal.
Saturday's DD experience saw the most inter-artist socializing. I'll give a list of some highlights from this time, though there were many more:
- Every. Single. One. Of my commissions were of cool character designs and exciting concepts. I am so incredibly spoiled by these clients!
- centradragon was kind-enough to visit our table not once, but twice!
- shanerefus isn't Pac, but everyone agrees Pac should still come to a con, so get on that.
- One night ago I told a couple of my friends that Keovi was an asshole (I name dropped in a moment of weakness). But when she visited my table the morning after I realized I paired her name with another face, and got to meet her/apologize in person! She is so kind, and not an asshole at all. You go, Keovi.
- riptideshark and kellervo had us thinkin' 'bout sharks all day, all day. It's true. We chanted and danced. Someone got a video, I think.
- Orel, Rampack, Knuxlight, and Analon were tables I was able to visit in the AA. I missed the others, regrettably, but their setups and wares were excellent!
- ianjay and chickenteeth were killing it. They're comic powerhouses that make the DD so much better, and I can't wait to communicate with 'em later about my own comic-smithing endeavours!
- thewanderingangel, v-smok, cisqur and plenty of other people regularly checked up on me to make sure I was bouncing back from my illness and stressors.
- trek, rucksack, and yumil Three people I first knew outside of the fandom had surprised me in the DD!
- When Jasonmiller answered this by saying "When I was in preschool, I wanted to be a snake and a criminal."
- Anything deviantterra
- All the previous clients that wanted to say hello!
Saturday night, many of us met at an overpriced restaurant, where exactly 50% percent of the service was horrible. I assume of this party, one person left this skeleton hoodie. It looks awesome, but it isn't mine. Hook a brother up with an address! At the Zoo, Maybemantis/Suchamantis/mightbemantis/definitelymantis premiered her partial, which was ridiculously cute.
Sunday, xyphoid/Doug invited me to dinner with our FWA circle, which was incredibly delicious and fun. But on my way down to the restaurant I was able to say a hello to lone.companion and bosshog! Dinner conversation was great, but near the end I was especially interested about talking of Weasyl's potential. Exciting furry things could be on the horizon!
I want to wrap this up, quickly, so apologies for not doing the last days justice. ke joined our room last minute, and he's swell. Also turns out I relate to Vet on a disturbingly large amount of things! Despite this character flaw, Justina and I really enjoyed his company, and in the few days he was visiting we felt really encouraged by his presence. A++ guest, would house again.
PS: I have more AC videos to upload. One is of me making a creeper face at malkyru, and it's delicious.
Post-Anthrocon Journal: Part I
General | Posted 12 years agoHey, all! I'm back home in Cinci w/Orel, wrapping things up before he flies back to California.
I'll unpack this later, but for now I'll mention that Anthrocon2013 was one of the greatest things ever.
So, like a giant weenie, I left all of my receipts and contact information at my sister's home in Columbus! I normally would have had my emails sent out by now. She's going to have that information sent ASAP.
Part II coming soon!
I'll unpack this later, but for now I'll mention that Anthrocon2013 was one of the greatest things ever.
So, like a giant weenie, I left all of my receipts and contact information at my sister's home in Columbus! I normally would have had my emails sent out by now. She's going to have that information sent ASAP.
Part II coming soon!
Baby's Second Anthrocon Journal
General | Posted 12 years agoCommission Queue • Ask Me Anything • Art/Life ProTips
Anthrocon
Hey you fellows! Hope you're ready to say hello in person, because AC is going to be gnarly, radical, and perhaps even bodacious! I'll be running around like a headless chicken before the con starts, but until then…
Toulouse and I will have a table in the Dealer's Den!
We're not too hard to find.
TABLE N03 will include:
-New prints and framed/matted sketches for sale
-Off-site STIGSKETCH Commission slots
-Portfolio reviews (if that's your thing)
-Jokes you would have found funny several years ago
-Thinking about playing Smash Bros. or maybe Dark Souls
-Contrasting heights
-Toulouses
-Stigmata (already plural?! but there won't be any real stigmata, probably)
The best table, and the best hotel room. I'm a lucky guy!
Can't wait to get the ball rolling. Let's Anthrocon, you guys!
Anthrocon
Hey you fellows! Hope you're ready to say hello in person, because AC is going to be gnarly, radical, and perhaps even bodacious! I'll be running around like a headless chicken before the con starts, but until then…
Toulouse and I will have a table in the Dealer's Den!
We're not too hard to find.
TABLE N03 will include:
-New prints and framed/matted sketches for sale
-Off-site STIGSKETCH Commission slots
-Portfolio reviews (if that's your thing)
-Jokes you would have found funny several years ago
-Thinking about playing Smash Bros. or maybe Dark Souls
-Contrasting heights
-Toulouses
-Stigmata (already plural?! but there won't be any real stigmata, probably)
The best table, and the best hotel room. I'm a lucky guy!
Can't wait to get the ball rolling. Let's Anthrocon, you guys!
We don't need an Anthrocon Roommate anymore!
General | Posted 12 years agoCommission Queue • Ask Me Anything • Art/Life ProTips
Sorry for the short notice. Here is our AC room, currently. We would like two more roommates, though!
We are a room of artists, so we wake up at a decent hour, get things done in the room, and only use the beds for either sleeping or huddling around laptops and making fun of our art from middle school.
Anyone who knows us already, and awesome artists are perks! If you're both then WE WANT YOU!
Thanks, guys. Back to your regularly scheduled programming.
We are a room of artists, so we wake up at a decent hour, get things done in the room, and only use the beds for either sleeping or huddling around laptops and making fun of our art from middle school.
Thanks, guys. Back to your regularly scheduled programming.
Poster Order Deadline In 3 Days! + EDIT: Shipping
General | Posted 12 years agoCommission Queue • Ask Me Anything • Art/Life ProTips
EDIT: 19h26: These parcels are over 12" on their longest side. That means that shipping them is going to be VERY costly! I received my first order estimate today and was blown away (total of 70USD for 1 24x36" poster to ship to Chile).
If you are going to be at Anthrocon please take advantage of pickup! If you will be able to pick this up at AC, do it. You'll never get a chance to have them cheaper!
Greetings, all! The June 17th deadline for ordering posters is among us! F5 at that link, because I have updated the ad to show a more accurate size and crop on the posters. They look better than ever now!
Here's a fun fact about me: I cannot participate in sales unless I am emotionally invested in the product. Lucky me, I spent several days sharpening these images since the last iteration, and they look bigger and better than ever!
Strangely enough, virtually all of my orders have been for international shipping. I currently cannot afford printing these in advance for ordering at my DD table, so if you think anybody going to AC would desire a purchase, please send them my way!
Thanks, all! Until later, I'm going to burry my head in my work for another day.
EDIT: 19h26: These parcels are over 12" on their longest side. That means that shipping them is going to be VERY costly! I received my first order estimate today and was blown away (total of 70USD for 1 24x36" poster to ship to Chile).
If you are going to be at Anthrocon please take advantage of pickup! If you will be able to pick this up at AC, do it. You'll never get a chance to have them cheaper!
Greetings, all! The June 17th deadline for ordering posters is among us! F5 at that link, because I have updated the ad to show a more accurate size and crop on the posters. They look better than ever now!
Here's a fun fact about me: I cannot participate in sales unless I am emotionally invested in the product. Lucky me, I spent several days sharpening these images since the last iteration, and they look bigger and better than ever!
Strangely enough, virtually all of my orders have been for international shipping. I currently cannot afford printing these in advance for ordering at my DD table, so if you think anybody going to AC would desire a purchase, please send them my way!
Thanks, all! Until later, I'm going to burry my head in my work for another day.
Anthrocon 2013! Plus, My June schedule:
General | Posted 12 years agoCommission Queue • Ask Me Anything • Art/Life ProTips
Anthrocon
Wahay! Is July 4th-7th! Is good! Definitely stood out as a highlight of life, but I know this one will be better by many times!
Toulouse and I will have a table in the Dealer's Den!
We're not too hard to find.
TABLE N03 will include:
-Exclusive and Giant Poster Pickups
-New prints and framed/matted sketches for sale
-Full-size Commission slots
-Portfolio reviews (if that's your thing)
-Jokes you would have found funny several years ago
-Thinking about playing Smash Bros. or maybe Dark Souls
-Contrasting heights
-Toulouses
-Stigmata (already plural?! but there won't be any real stigmata, probably)
My June Schedule
My symptoms from my last virus (the one that I got while having mono) is still lingering, and now my tonsils seem to chronically have canker sores on them. Guess I'm getting those suckers carved out soon! I spent an hour writing out everything I had to do before Anthrocon. I laughed at how big this list is. 65 tasks so far, all spanning a time usage of anywhere between 2 minutes and 35 hours to complete. So many personal and business obligations await me that I cannot for the life of me see June as being anything other than a huge ball of stress. The wife's schedule this month is keeping her away from home for most of the day, so it's not a bad time to lose myself in work.
Thanks for all the positive words you have shared with me. Getting ready for Anthrocon will be a grand test of time-management, but I look forward to serving you all in person shortly!
Anthrocon
Wahay! Is July 4th-7th! Is good! Definitely stood out as a highlight of life, but I know this one will be better by many times!
Toulouse and I will have a table in the Dealer's Den!
We're not too hard to find.
TABLE N03 will include:
-Exclusive and Giant Poster Pickups
-New prints and framed/matted sketches for sale
-Full-size Commission slots
-Portfolio reviews (if that's your thing)
-Jokes you would have found funny several years ago
-Thinking about playing Smash Bros. or maybe Dark Souls
-Contrasting heights
-Toulouses
-Stigmata (already plural?! but there won't be any real stigmata, probably)
My June Schedule
My symptoms from my last virus (the one that I got while having mono) is still lingering, and now my tonsils seem to chronically have canker sores on them. Guess I'm getting those suckers carved out soon! I spent an hour writing out everything I had to do before Anthrocon. I laughed at how big this list is. 65 tasks so far, all spanning a time usage of anywhere between 2 minutes and 35 hours to complete. So many personal and business obligations await me that I cannot for the life of me see June as being anything other than a huge ball of stress. The wife's schedule this month is keeping her away from home for most of the day, so it's not a bad time to lose myself in work.
Thanks for all the positive words you have shared with me. Getting ready for Anthrocon will be a grand test of time-management, but I look forward to serving you all in person shortly!
For Anybody Hurting
General | Posted 12 years agoCommission Queue • Ask Me Anything • Art/Life ProTips
Hey, everybody. I'm going between tiredness and alertness. Thanks again for being so patient with me. In the meantime, I'd like you to watch this four minute video. Its combined narrative may be the strongest anti-suicide effort I've seen.
https://youtu.be/O17aK8tkp9U
On Facebook, this video received some contrary opinions. Some of my friends found this video patronizing to those struggling with depression or suicidal thoughts. While I don't think this critique is applicable to this video, it's certainly good to be informed on what real depression feels like.
If you've talked to me in person about character designs, commissions, or anything else, you'll understand why I think being an artist in the furry fandom puts one in a unique position to help other people. If toulouse and I get our Anthrocon lecture slot, that'll be the emphasis of my presentation; until then, let me just state that artists exist to be in service to others. Practice to the fullest, that you can serve others more, and with time your art will serve you.
Side-note: An updated version of the oil painting from FWA is now available!
Hey, everybody. I'm going between tiredness and alertness. Thanks again for being so patient with me. In the meantime, I'd like you to watch this four minute video. Its combined narrative may be the strongest anti-suicide effort I've seen.
https://youtu.be/O17aK8tkp9U
On Facebook, this video received some contrary opinions. Some of my friends found this video patronizing to those struggling with depression or suicidal thoughts. While I don't think this critique is applicable to this video, it's certainly good to be informed on what real depression feels like.
If you've talked to me in person about character designs, commissions, or anything else, you'll understand why I think being an artist in the furry fandom puts one in a unique position to help other people. If toulouse and I get our Anthrocon lecture slot, that'll be the emphasis of my presentation; until then, let me just state that artists exist to be in service to others. Practice to the fullest, that you can serve others more, and with time your art will serve you.
Side-note: An updated version of the oil painting from FWA is now available!
Health / ProTip Updates
General | Posted 12 years agoCommission Queue • Ask Me Anything • Art/Life ProTips
My Art/Life Protips have been updated! Click the link above.
Greetings to those kind-enough to wonder how I am doing. It has been a little over one month since my last journal. In that time I have gotten over most of my mono, have been struck with another virus, and found out my application for a gallery residency was not accepted. I also learned that making "just-enough" with your art is not enough, because being bed-ridden like this means I've almost screwed over myself and my wife with accruing debt. It is also a frustration that I have not been able to keep my word on my estimates to complete my work in a timely fashion. Before I leave for Anthrocon I would like my queue to be empty.
Now that bad news is out of the way, the positives: Not receiving the gallery residency means I am not tied down to Cincinnati for one year. I already have the abilities to create useful concept art, so I'll do my best to create several portfolios towards various movie and game studios while I'm not working on commissions. I don't think I was ready to pursue concept art previously, but I'm certain I can now contribute constructively to the industry. I also have contacts in several Blizzard campuses, Arenanet, Ubisoft, DnD, etc…, and it's about time I took full advantage of that. No matter what direction my career takes, I couldn't ever see myself turning down private commissions—my heart will always hold a special place working with individual relationships.
Even though I haven't been updating much, thank you all for your encouraging words! The worst of my health is indeed behind me.
My Art/Life Protips have been updated! Click the link above.
Greetings to those kind-enough to wonder how I am doing. It has been a little over one month since my last journal. In that time I have gotten over most of my mono, have been struck with another virus, and found out my application for a gallery residency was not accepted. I also learned that making "just-enough" with your art is not enough, because being bed-ridden like this means I've almost screwed over myself and my wife with accruing debt. It is also a frustration that I have not been able to keep my word on my estimates to complete my work in a timely fashion. Before I leave for Anthrocon I would like my queue to be empty.
Now that bad news is out of the way, the positives: Not receiving the gallery residency means I am not tied down to Cincinnati for one year. I already have the abilities to create useful concept art, so I'll do my best to create several portfolios towards various movie and game studios while I'm not working on commissions. I don't think I was ready to pursue concept art previously, but I'm certain I can now contribute constructively to the industry. I also have contacts in several Blizzard campuses, Arenanet, Ubisoft, DnD, etc…, and it's about time I took full advantage of that. No matter what direction my career takes, I couldn't ever see myself turning down private commissions—my heart will always hold a special place working with individual relationships.
Even though I haven't been updating much, thank you all for your encouraging words! The worst of my health is indeed behind me.
Please read: Hiatus + Missing FCN
General | Posted 12 years agoCommission Queue • Ask Me Anything • Art/Life ProTips
Hey, all. I just got back from the doctors, and found out why I've been feeling so crappy these last few days. It turns out I have been struck with the mono, as well as a bit of hepatitis. For those unfamiliar, it means I can expect around a month of little physical contact, fevers, restless nights of sleep, chronic fatigue, and some minor pains and shakes.
Special shout out to my parents, who dragged me to the hospital. Also, to the Missus, who takes care of my every need the best that she can.
This means I can no longer attend FCN, or my panel with Toulouse. Please learn from her in my absense, and imagine my face looking down on her all Mufasa-like while she hits you up with some knowledge.
Those projects I was planning on including my work in, (like RRUFFURR2 and The Constellation project, etc…,) will have to be canned. I can type reasonably well, but when I draw my brain firing on all cylinders, so it only takes scribbling for minutes before I have to go lay down.
Sorry, clients. I was really excited to shoot these images out before my body was dying on me. Stay posted for more updates.
Hey, all. I just got back from the doctors, and found out why I've been feeling so crappy these last few days. It turns out I have been struck with the mono, as well as a bit of hepatitis. For those unfamiliar, it means I can expect around a month of little physical contact, fevers, restless nights of sleep, chronic fatigue, and some minor pains and shakes.
Special shout out to my parents, who dragged me to the hospital. Also, to the Missus, who takes care of my every need the best that she can.
This means I can no longer attend FCN, or my panel with Toulouse. Please learn from her in my absense, and imagine my face looking down on her all Mufasa-like while she hits you up with some knowledge.
Those projects I was planning on including my work in, (like RRUFFURR2 and The Constellation project, etc…,) will have to be canned. I can type reasonably well, but when I draw my brain firing on all cylinders, so it only takes scribbling for minutes before I have to go lay down.
Sorry, clients. I was really excited to shoot these images out before my body was dying on me. Stay posted for more updates.
FCN Meme + Sick
General | Posted 12 years agoCommission Queue • Ask Me Anything • Art/Life ProTips • Buy Prints!
I'm sick.
Hey, you all. Currently sick, so sorry about the commission delays. On the bright side, I'm challenging myself more than ever on these images, so I know the results will be my best, yet! Thank you all for waiting!
Any clients that did not receive their images if you are crossed off the queue, please let me know. Don't want anyone falling through the cracks!
Furry Connection North
I'll also be at FCN. Here's the skinny:
- toulouse and I will be teaching in this pannel! She'll be hitting up workflow, and I'll be talking philosophy.
- In the Artist Alley, I'll be selling prints and taking sketch commissions for later, and saying hello to literally anybody that stops by my table. Look for this guy and this Stigmata badge.
- When not hanging out in the artist alley, I'll try to be available as much as possible for hanging out, but I'm staying at bloodshot23's house (and can't wait to meet his family! Oh my goodness!).
That should be all. Thanks for reading!
I'm sick.
Hey, you all. Currently sick, so sorry about the commission delays. On the bright side, I'm challenging myself more than ever on these images, so I know the results will be my best, yet! Thank you all for waiting!
Any clients that did not receive their images if you are crossed off the queue, please let me know. Don't want anyone falling through the cracks!
Furry Connection North
I'll also be at FCN. Here's the skinny:
-
toulouse and I will be teaching in this pannel! She'll be hitting up workflow, and I'll be talking philosophy. - In the Artist Alley, I'll be selling prints and taking sketch commissions for later, and saying hello to literally anybody that stops by my table. Look for this guy and this Stigmata badge.
- When not hanging out in the artist alley, I'll try to be available as much as possible for hanging out, but I'm staying at
bloodshot23's house (and can't wait to meet his family! Oh my goodness!).That should be all. Thanks for reading!
