Society Of Illustrators Opening Reception

This year marks the first time one of my paintings has been included in the Society of Illustrators prestigious annual exhibition. Having never been to New York City it was the perfect reason to go for the first time. My wife an I made it to the opening reception on January 6th and had a great time. The work included in the show was exceptional and I was proud to be included in the group. Here are a few photos from that night including the first original painting I've ever seen by J.C. Leyendecker and the amazing Norman Rockwell piece over the bar.

The show runs for most of January so be sure to see it if you're in New York.

Society Of Illustrators 54

For the first time my work has been accepted by the legendary Society Of Illustrators. Ever since art school I've wanted to be a member of the society and be included in the annual. A few hours ago I got the call that my tribute to George Romero and J.C. Leyendecker made the cut. I'm very excited. With any luck I'll be able to make it to the show's opening.

Back in Tennessee

It's been a few years since I've worked in the State of Tennessee but today marks my return. I was very happy to get a call from Nashville's The City Paper last week to do this cover illustration about job opportunities for skilled workers in the city. Drawn on Tuesday and painted on Wednesday, it was a rush job for an oil painting but I couldn't be happier with the results. Wish I was in town to grab a copy for myself.

Care Bears' Ink

The little know secret story behind the Care Bears' stomach artwork. This illustration has been hanging around the studio unfinished for months. I can't remember where the idea came from but I began the painting a few months ago before abandoning it. I decided last week to give it a second try and proceeded with a pen and ink drawing that was then colored digitally. This process felt like it gave the Care Bears a much more authentic feel not that this was an attempt to copy their look exactly. I guess it's just a tribute.

Drag Strip Courage And Compacts

Monday I asked the Toronto Roller Girls if they needed any poster art for October. Turned out they needed a poster for Wednesday so I got my act together and "whipped" this poster together on Tuesday. I though I would show the contrast of the tough side of the derby girls with the dainty which I think really works here. It cracks me up when you go see the derby and they're dancing while waiting for the whistle to blow. Maybe Roller Disco will be the next big thing for those of you on eight wheels. If anyone needs a roller disco poster done please call me.

Roller Derby - Double Header

I've teamed up with Kitchener's Tri-City Roller Girls for this loving tribute to the Sweet Valley High book series. This poster is for the Sept 24 match featuring the Tri City teams the Vicious Dishes and the Total Knock-Outs verses Toronto's D-Vas and Montreal Les Contrabanditas. I'm not sure where the Sweet
Valley High idea originated but once I had it in my head it was obvious that it needed to be done.

Mid-Century Modern Cartooning

Here's another brand new illustration sample. I'm still exploring the world of Modern cartooning, pen and ink drawings with digital color. I'm not giving up the painting but this is a fun break so I hope some of you art directors can find a use for it. I'd love to do some more!