Good news. I'm on vacation. I drive 8 hours to get to the Jersey Shore tomorrow and then I'm off from everything for 9 days...but of course, I'll still be online. In fact, I'll probably be online MORE than I have in the past couple weeks, because I'll be bored with the beach by Sunday...hehe...yes, that means 24 hours after getting there.
Christy and I will try to be civil to everyone, but our REAL vacation starts TUESDAY when we get to Atlantic City for three days. I'm going to gamble gamble gamble!
(Shh, don't tell the wife that, though, because she thinks I'm going to sign over the house to a loan shark or something...)
Anyway, I'll probably give everyone some fun stories (if there are any)...(I'm sure at least one good gamble story will occur).
Friday, July 28, 2006
Monday, July 24, 2006
Post 312 (7/24/06): Bachelor Parties...hehe.
At some point in everyone's life, they should experience a bachelor party...but not necessarily, be the guy that turns it into a true party...the other night (Saturday), I had the opportunity to go to a bachelor party that was in serious need of "sprucing up..."
Myself, Arnie, and Fubar (all on the myspace page for more info on them), drove down to Winston Salem (about an hour from home) to get to see our buddy Al on one of his last free nights. Everything about this party seemed a little off if you ask me, since we were going to start at Hooters, drink A LOT of beer, and then hit the strip club. I apologize now for the ladies reading this, but as funny as it was, its probably not the most appropriate story, hehe.
Anyway, the worst rain I've been a part of since my car almost washed away at the Jersey Shore last year, we get there and get soaked as we walk into the restaurant. We wait...and wait...and wait for a waitress to come and take our order. By the time she arrives, I order three pitchers of beer, thinking, if it is going to take her 20 minutes to come back, I want this to be at least something to tide us over. I offer the bachelor, Al, as much beer as he would like, and his other buddies start helping themselves...I don't know anybody here except Al, Fu and Arnie, but I let it slide based on the fact that I don't want to make everyone upset about something as trivial as this...
When the check comes, Arnie and I put $40 into it, and Fubar places $25 into the pot for driving and not drinking as much...this means that a TOTAL of $27 and tip HAS NOT BEEN PAID by three of us...the other six guys should be able to come up with that, right?....right? Nope, Arnie and I suddenly have to throw in more...so not only were they drinking the beer, they also didn't have a couple bucks to throw in...
We go to the strip club, but have to make a stop before we get there, so Al can throw up...this is a great stop, because it allow me to try a drink called TILT, which is an energy beer...good stuff, tastes like a dreamsicle.
Finally, we get to the strip club, on a Saturday night mind you, to find out that... ONLY ONE GIRL IS WORKING...AN ENTIRE CLUB! WHAT?!
I get directions to another club, broker a deal to get Al in for free...watch two of the other guys complain that it costs $10 to get in...$10?! THAT'S NOTHING. I broker another deal to get the leather couch section for HALF PRICE...and here the guys complain about this...sheesh.
Finally, boobies...we get some girls to come over, and who is it that has to get the dances for the bachelor...? Arnie and me.
All in all, I enjoyed the fun I had, not the money I spent, or having to be the best man when I'm not even in the wedding party. I hope Al realizes how much we did for him, because it was fun...
and it wouldn't have been if not for the boys from Durham.
Myself, Arnie, and Fubar (all on the myspace page for more info on them), drove down to Winston Salem (about an hour from home) to get to see our buddy Al on one of his last free nights. Everything about this party seemed a little off if you ask me, since we were going to start at Hooters, drink A LOT of beer, and then hit the strip club. I apologize now for the ladies reading this, but as funny as it was, its probably not the most appropriate story, hehe.
Anyway, the worst rain I've been a part of since my car almost washed away at the Jersey Shore last year, we get there and get soaked as we walk into the restaurant. We wait...and wait...and wait for a waitress to come and take our order. By the time she arrives, I order three pitchers of beer, thinking, if it is going to take her 20 minutes to come back, I want this to be at least something to tide us over. I offer the bachelor, Al, as much beer as he would like, and his other buddies start helping themselves...I don't know anybody here except Al, Fu and Arnie, but I let it slide based on the fact that I don't want to make everyone upset about something as trivial as this...
When the check comes, Arnie and I put $40 into it, and Fubar places $25 into the pot for driving and not drinking as much...this means that a TOTAL of $27 and tip HAS NOT BEEN PAID by three of us...the other six guys should be able to come up with that, right?....right? Nope, Arnie and I suddenly have to throw in more...so not only were they drinking the beer, they also didn't have a couple bucks to throw in...
We go to the strip club, but have to make a stop before we get there, so Al can throw up...this is a great stop, because it allow me to try a drink called TILT, which is an energy beer...good stuff, tastes like a dreamsicle.
Finally, we get to the strip club, on a Saturday night mind you, to find out that... ONLY ONE GIRL IS WORKING...AN ENTIRE CLUB! WHAT?!
I get directions to another club, broker a deal to get Al in for free...watch two of the other guys complain that it costs $10 to get in...$10?! THAT'S NOTHING. I broker another deal to get the leather couch section for HALF PRICE...and here the guys complain about this...sheesh.
Finally, boobies...we get some girls to come over, and who is it that has to get the dances for the bachelor...? Arnie and me.
All in all, I enjoyed the fun I had, not the money I spent, or having to be the best man when I'm not even in the wedding party. I hope Al realizes how much we did for him, because it was fun...
and it wouldn't have been if not for the boys from Durham.
Thursday, July 20, 2006
Post 311 (7/20/06): One of "THOSE" conversations.
HELLO still isn't working, so I still don't have any art to post...sorry...now going to talk about my personal life again.
----------------------------------------------------------------
Christy and I (that's my wife, folks) had one of those conversations that you dread, and then whens its over, you may feel a little better about it, but overall, you still dread it because you aren't sure how are you going to...or how you want to react.
I asked her if she felt we connect anymore. And I got the hard answer. Christy hasn't been good at sugarcoating recently, since I asked her if she found me physically attractive and got a diatribe about all the reasons why she wouldn't when all I was doing was fishing for a compliment. She apologized, but today I got the answer that hurts. She said, "I want to..." Not "yes," but not "No." But it seemed apparent, that everything she was saying was trying to "not hurt my feelings." Much like I do everytime I tell her nothings wrong, or explain how I feel without explaining all of it...but today was different, I was going to be heard, I was going to explain myself, because I am tired of arguing over drinking, drinking and driving, her friends, where she wants to hang out and why I'm angry with her all the time....Yes, this means she's not always the bad guy, and I truly love her.
I am an excellent judge of character. Its a gift and a curse. Its a gift because it allows me to learn about truly good people...its a curse because I learn all too often who's not worth my time, and my wife doesn't learn that lesson nearly as soon as I do. But anyway.
I brought one huge point to the forefront of us today that I've been denying myself and knowing that it was what I wanted, but was trying to accept that I was never going to get it...and no, I'm not talking about butt sex, hehe...
I told her our biggest "disconnect" was this..."Christy, you are THE MOST IMPORTANT THING in the world to me. When I accept you doing something, its because I want you to be happy. When I disagree with something you do, its because I want to do whats best for you...We fight because I tell you I want to be respected, and I want my opinion to matter. I want...to be number one in your life. I don't want to be number 2, 3, or further down the line. I put you first, regardless of anything...and I'm not put first to you."
A relationship only truly works forever if you want to make that other person happy. Do you have to be happy with yourself? Sure, but you still want to appease them, and make them realize how important they are, and how much you love them... otherwise, all you'll have left is yourself. Sacrifice, compromise and understanding. Yet, for some reason its human nature to be selfish and not care about another person's feelings, needs or wants.
"Christy, I didn't tell you to change anything about our wedding because it was all done the way you wanted, which made it how I wanted. All that work, and the most REAL smile I've ever seen on your face...that gave me everything I've ever wanted in life."
Her smiling makes me smile. Her wanting to make me smile is what I miss.
Maybe one of these days we'll really appreciate what the other does for us...but right now, I just want what I give her and start there...
I love her so much that I'm willing to do anything for her...and I just want to know that she'd sacrifice anything to reciprocate...
----------------------------------------------------------------
Christy and I (that's my wife, folks) had one of those conversations that you dread, and then whens its over, you may feel a little better about it, but overall, you still dread it because you aren't sure how are you going to...or how you want to react.
I asked her if she felt we connect anymore. And I got the hard answer. Christy hasn't been good at sugarcoating recently, since I asked her if she found me physically attractive and got a diatribe about all the reasons why she wouldn't when all I was doing was fishing for a compliment. She apologized, but today I got the answer that hurts. She said, "I want to..." Not "yes," but not "No." But it seemed apparent, that everything she was saying was trying to "not hurt my feelings." Much like I do everytime I tell her nothings wrong, or explain how I feel without explaining all of it...but today was different, I was going to be heard, I was going to explain myself, because I am tired of arguing over drinking, drinking and driving, her friends, where she wants to hang out and why I'm angry with her all the time....Yes, this means she's not always the bad guy, and I truly love her.
I am an excellent judge of character. Its a gift and a curse. Its a gift because it allows me to learn about truly good people...its a curse because I learn all too often who's not worth my time, and my wife doesn't learn that lesson nearly as soon as I do. But anyway.
I brought one huge point to the forefront of us today that I've been denying myself and knowing that it was what I wanted, but was trying to accept that I was never going to get it...and no, I'm not talking about butt sex, hehe...
I told her our biggest "disconnect" was this..."Christy, you are THE MOST IMPORTANT THING in the world to me. When I accept you doing something, its because I want you to be happy. When I disagree with something you do, its because I want to do whats best for you...We fight because I tell you I want to be respected, and I want my opinion to matter. I want...to be number one in your life. I don't want to be number 2, 3, or further down the line. I put you first, regardless of anything...and I'm not put first to you."
A relationship only truly works forever if you want to make that other person happy. Do you have to be happy with yourself? Sure, but you still want to appease them, and make them realize how important they are, and how much you love them... otherwise, all you'll have left is yourself. Sacrifice, compromise and understanding. Yet, for some reason its human nature to be selfish and not care about another person's feelings, needs or wants.
"Christy, I didn't tell you to change anything about our wedding because it was all done the way you wanted, which made it how I wanted. All that work, and the most REAL smile I've ever seen on your face...that gave me everything I've ever wanted in life."
Her smiling makes me smile. Her wanting to make me smile is what I miss.
Maybe one of these days we'll really appreciate what the other does for us...but right now, I just want what I give her and start there...
I love her so much that I'm willing to do anything for her...and I just want to know that she'd sacrifice anything to reciprocate...
Monday, July 17, 2006
Post 310...problems :(
So get this...I find ALL this old art, including stuff that will NOW be included in the ARDY: City That Never Sleeps 10th Anniversary Director's Cut, like sketches from Tim and myself for the character designs, page layouts to show where Tim was going with the art and such...and yet, for some reason the program I use to upload pics to the blog, called HELLO, is not connecting to the server. Like at all. I've reinstalled the software and everything and I could NOT find a way to get this stuff uploaded. What this means is that I may put it all on the myspace page, or I may just leave it until the printed edition comes out...but the craziness of everything is I found some of my OLDEST Landis sketches, including a "silent" four page story that shows exactly how influenced by Highlander she was when I created her.
Its unfortunate, and I'm trying to make sure I at least get on here to show you guys that I am still trying to give new and fresh material at least once per week like the contract with Keenspot says I have to, and I KNOW that just reading what I have to blog about is probably not enough, so I WANT to give you more, and I will...please believe that.
If I could figure out how to html other files onto the blog, I would, I hope you all understand that, too. I'm NO internet genius and I do not claim to be one....that's part of the reason THE ARDY VANSTARR ADVENTURES hasn't begun yet (that and the pages aren't lettered, yet, either...JK is going to be showing me how to do that, again, so that we can both do it, and get it up to the speed with need it.
Anyway, I've been doodling a lot more recently, though only when I have time at home, and I've found some great old ARDY pieces that I may make into prints through Ka-Blam! In fact, I need to get in touch with Tony Furtado since I don't have that awesome ARDY piece he did recently since my harddrive crash earlier this year.
Also, one more time, I'll ask anyone who wants to submit an original Landis drawing to please do so. So far I don't have any commitments for it, though I'd love to have anyone who wants to show their best Landis.
Alright, I'll try to be back before the end of the week to give an update for both me and JK on ARDY's progress, and hopefully Eric's progress with TAGGER, as well.
Its unfortunate, and I'm trying to make sure I at least get on here to show you guys that I am still trying to give new and fresh material at least once per week like the contract with Keenspot says I have to, and I KNOW that just reading what I have to blog about is probably not enough, so I WANT to give you more, and I will...please believe that.
If I could figure out how to html other files onto the blog, I would, I hope you all understand that, too. I'm NO internet genius and I do not claim to be one....that's part of the reason THE ARDY VANSTARR ADVENTURES hasn't begun yet (that and the pages aren't lettered, yet, either...JK is going to be showing me how to do that, again, so that we can both do it, and get it up to the speed with need it.
Anyway, I've been doodling a lot more recently, though only when I have time at home, and I've found some great old ARDY pieces that I may make into prints through Ka-Blam! In fact, I need to get in touch with Tony Furtado since I don't have that awesome ARDY piece he did recently since my harddrive crash earlier this year.
Also, one more time, I'll ask anyone who wants to submit an original Landis drawing to please do so. So far I don't have any commitments for it, though I'd love to have anyone who wants to show their best Landis.
Alright, I'll try to be back before the end of the week to give an update for both me and JK on ARDY's progress, and hopefully Eric's progress with TAGGER, as well.
Post 310...problems :(
So get this...I find ALL this old art, including stuff that will NOW be included in the ARDY: City That Never Sleeps 10th Anniversary Director's Cut, like sketches from Tim and myself for the character designs, page layouts to show where Tim was going with the art and such...and yet, for some reason the program I use to upload pics to the blog, called HELLO, is not connecting to the server. Like at all. I've reinstalled the software and everything and I could NOT find a way to get this stuff uploaded. What this means is that I may put it all on the myspace page, or I may just leave it until the printed edition comes out...but the craziness of everything is I found some of my OLDEST Landis sketches, including a "silent" four page story that shows exactly how influenced by Highlander she was when I created her.
Its unfortunate, and I'm trying to make sure I at least get on here to show you guys that I am still trying to give new and fresh material at least once per week like the contract with Keenspot says I have to, and I KNOW that just reading what I have to blog about is probably not enough, so I WANT to give you more, and I will...please believe that.
If I could figure out how to html other files onto the blog, I would, I hope you all understand that, too. I'm NO internet genius and I do not claim to be one....that's part of the reason THE ARDY VANSTARR ADVENTURES hasn't begun yet (that and the pages aren't lettered, yet, either...JK is going to be showing me how to do that, again, so that we can both do it, and get it up to the speed with need it.
Anyway, I've been doodling a lot more recently, though only when I have time at home, and I've found some great old ARDY pieces that I may make into prints through Ka-Blam! In fact, I need to get in touch with Tony Furtado since I don't have that awesome ARDY piece he did recently since my harddrive crash earlier this year.
Also, one more time, I'll ask anyone who wants to submit an original Landis drawing to please do so. So far I don't have any commitments for it, though I'd love to have anyone who wants to show their best Landis.
Alright, I'll try to be back before the end of the week to give an update for both me and JK on ARDY's progress, and hopefully Eric's progress with TAGGER, as well.
Its unfortunate, and I'm trying to make sure I at least get on here to show you guys that I am still trying to give new and fresh material at least once per week like the contract with Keenspot says I have to, and I KNOW that just reading what I have to blog about is probably not enough, so I WANT to give you more, and I will...please believe that.
If I could figure out how to html other files onto the blog, I would, I hope you all understand that, too. I'm NO internet genius and I do not claim to be one....that's part of the reason THE ARDY VANSTARR ADVENTURES hasn't begun yet (that and the pages aren't lettered, yet, either...JK is going to be showing me how to do that, again, so that we can both do it, and get it up to the speed with need it.
Anyway, I've been doodling a lot more recently, though only when I have time at home, and I've found some great old ARDY pieces that I may make into prints through Ka-Blam! In fact, I need to get in touch with Tony Furtado since I don't have that awesome ARDY piece he did recently since my harddrive crash earlier this year.
Also, one more time, I'll ask anyone who wants to submit an original Landis drawing to please do so. So far I don't have any commitments for it, though I'd love to have anyone who wants to show their best Landis.
Alright, I'll try to be back before the end of the week to give an update for both me and JK on ARDY's progress, and hopefully Eric's progress with TAGGER, as well.
Tuesday, July 11, 2006
Post 309: Everything goes on...
So JK and I are attempting to get everything set up for a launch in August of THE ARDY VANSTARR ADVENTURES. I truly thought that we would have been able to launch the site in conjunction with the end of the other story, but as things went on and on, it became more and more difficult to get everything ready. We are ahead on the pages, but they still need to be lettered and they still need to be finalized. This shouldn't take too long to get done, but I'm realizing that I haven't even chat with any of you to let you know what was going on with it.
With TAGGER, Eric and I are moving ahead and we may get that project moving faster than anticipated by going with Black and White penciled art...similar to Everything Jake on Keenspot. This does NOT mean that the project is ready to launch, because once again, we're going to move forward when we are ahead enough.
Finally, I apologize for not updating everyone recently with the goings on, and for all the nay-sayers of Superman Returns, see it in IMAX 3D...I personally think that although it isn't as good as Superman 2, it is a very well done movie, and looks simply gorgeous. And for anyone that said that Kevin Spacey was "Goofy" as Lex Luther... he was perfect and only had one moment of looking silly...and that was probably done more as an homage to Richard Donner than anything else...
Next up, Pirates 2, which from what I hear, cheats by "To be Continued"
With TAGGER, Eric and I are moving ahead and we may get that project moving faster than anticipated by going with Black and White penciled art...similar to Everything Jake on Keenspot. This does NOT mean that the project is ready to launch, because once again, we're going to move forward when we are ahead enough.
Finally, I apologize for not updating everyone recently with the goings on, and for all the nay-sayers of Superman Returns, see it in IMAX 3D...I personally think that although it isn't as good as Superman 2, it is a very well done movie, and looks simply gorgeous. And for anyone that said that Kevin Spacey was "Goofy" as Lex Luther... he was perfect and only had one moment of looking silly...and that was probably done more as an homage to Richard Donner than anything else...
Next up, Pirates 2, which from what I hear, cheats by "To be Continued"
Friday, June 30, 2006
Post 307: James O'Barr, creator of THE CROW, draws LANDIS! Prints available!
Wowwie...
This here is a piece that was done today at Heroes Con by NONE OTHER than the creator of THE CROW, James O'Barr.
I'll be offering it from the show as a LIMITED EDITION PRINT for a short time period only, since I don't want Mr. O'Barr mad at me, heh, but it was one of the few sketches he actually did at the Heroes Con.
No, I will not be selling the original, since it will probably be framed, much like the Ethan Van Sciver piece, and placed in my living room.
I'll post more about my convention experience from this year, as well as at least one more piece of art I got from the artist of Ghost Rider, and hopefully I'll be able to show everyone at least a photo of me and my original Andy Lee painting (if I would have known he would have painted anything I wanted, I would have had him paint Ardy, but instead, I got a painting of the Flash).
Anyway, I will probably update everyone with the entire Con Experience tomorrow, but hurry if you want this piece of Landis history...available at cafepress.com/potchak
This here is a piece that was done today at Heroes Con by NONE OTHER than the creator of THE CROW, James O'Barr.
I'll be offering it from the show as a LIMITED EDITION PRINT for a short time period only, since I don't want Mr. O'Barr mad at me, heh, but it was one of the few sketches he actually did at the Heroes Con.
No, I will not be selling the original, since it will probably be framed, much like the Ethan Van Sciver piece, and placed in my living room.
I'll post more about my convention experience from this year, as well as at least one more piece of art I got from the artist of Ghost Rider, and hopefully I'll be able to show everyone at least a photo of me and my original Andy Lee painting (if I would have known he would have painted anything I wanted, I would have had him paint Ardy, but instead, I got a painting of the Flash).
Anyway, I will probably update everyone with the entire Con Experience tomorrow, but hurry if you want this piece of Landis history...available at cafepress.com/potchak
Wednesday, June 28, 2006
Post 306: Rob draws Wolverine...again...
My latest drawing. Its Wolverine, since he's always really been my favorite character, and I went for a mostly silhouette look for him... call it cheating, whatever, I like the piece, as it really seems to show off my crosshatching. Comments?
Post 306: New Art coming soon!
Hey folks...I just wanted to let everyone know the past little while at the current job is boring, so I've been doodling the past few days. In fact, they recently installed new filters so that I can't go to myspace or some other favorite sites. Luckily, blogger is still okay, so that's good.
With the end of City that Never Sleeps in a few days, I want to really THANK everyone that has stuck through the old material, because I'm hoping everyone is going to like the new material.
JK is working hard to get the full "first chapter" of The Ardy Vanstarr Adventures complete before launch, and I know Eric is trucking away on the pages of TAGGER, so it'll be great when I've got stuff to show everyone.
The format for TAVA will probably be Tuesday and Thursday updates, bu if JK and I think we can go as far as M-W-F, we may stick with that. I have to be honest when I say that I want to stay as far ahead on the prjects as possible, but I'll be writing the second story arc soon...since the first one is 40 or so pages, and JK is about 16 pages into it (and about 13 fully colored already), I have a little bitof a breather, but I feel like I'm kinda letting the fans of LANDIS down a little.
IF ANYONE is interested in doing a GUEST PAGE for Landis (or a pinup) or anything, let me know! I'm VERY interested in giving the masses NEW material. I know JK said he'd like to do a pinup or two for LANDIS, so we'll see if they come up :).
Anyway,
I'll be posting MY OWN art in the next couple days, so even if the main LANDIS site goes into a "reprinting" of the first arc (which it may), I'll be updating the blog with new art, hopefully every M-W-F for the time being just to keep us going.
However, my art may not just be of sketches of LANDIS, ARDY, TAGGER or other, I may post some newer art from THIEF (even though it isn't a Keenspot Exclusive to date), ATOMIC TEEN, CIPHER, or maybe even just redrawing some characters from my past, like Raccoon Man :)...I always liked drawing that guy.
Anyway, if anyone has any comic characters that they want me to try and draw, hit this up with a comment, and I'll see if I can't comply.
One last bit, and I want everyone's opinion about this one...I've noticed A LOT of webcomics accepting donations from fans to keep the quality and the product going. What is everyone's opinion of this? Does anyone think that they would ever consider donating for the comics? I'm just wondering...I don't think I'd do it, but I know that having to have a fulltime day job (just like BOTH artists, JK and Eric), we can't be as fast as we'd truly like on the comic, so I am just asking for opinions on this theory and way of doing comics.
With the end of City that Never Sleeps in a few days, I want to really THANK everyone that has stuck through the old material, because I'm hoping everyone is going to like the new material.
JK is working hard to get the full "first chapter" of The Ardy Vanstarr Adventures complete before launch, and I know Eric is trucking away on the pages of TAGGER, so it'll be great when I've got stuff to show everyone.
The format for TAVA will probably be Tuesday and Thursday updates, bu if JK and I think we can go as far as M-W-F, we may stick with that. I have to be honest when I say that I want to stay as far ahead on the prjects as possible, but I'll be writing the second story arc soon...since the first one is 40 or so pages, and JK is about 16 pages into it (and about 13 fully colored already), I have a little bitof a breather, but I feel like I'm kinda letting the fans of LANDIS down a little.
IF ANYONE is interested in doing a GUEST PAGE for Landis (or a pinup) or anything, let me know! I'm VERY interested in giving the masses NEW material. I know JK said he'd like to do a pinup or two for LANDIS, so we'll see if they come up :).
Anyway,
I'll be posting MY OWN art in the next couple days, so even if the main LANDIS site goes into a "reprinting" of the first arc (which it may), I'll be updating the blog with new art, hopefully every M-W-F for the time being just to keep us going.
However, my art may not just be of sketches of LANDIS, ARDY, TAGGER or other, I may post some newer art from THIEF (even though it isn't a Keenspot Exclusive to date), ATOMIC TEEN, CIPHER, or maybe even just redrawing some characters from my past, like Raccoon Man :)...I always liked drawing that guy.
Anyway, if anyone has any comic characters that they want me to try and draw, hit this up with a comment, and I'll see if I can't comply.
One last bit, and I want everyone's opinion about this one...I've noticed A LOT of webcomics accepting donations from fans to keep the quality and the product going. What is everyone's opinion of this? Does anyone think that they would ever consider donating for the comics? I'm just wondering...I don't think I'd do it, but I know that having to have a fulltime day job (just like BOTH artists, JK and Eric), we can't be as fast as we'd truly like on the comic, so I am just asking for opinions on this theory and way of doing comics.
Sunday, June 25, 2006
Posts 300-305: Art and fun fun stuff.
Alrighty...I was going to just post the THREE HUNDREDTH blog post today, but because of the special occassion, I went all out with it. As this is now actually post 305, with lots of really cool art on here...and now time to explain what they are...
The first piece (at the bottom of the five pieces), is the Heroes Convention poster that's given away to all attendees of the show, from Arthur Suydam, the fantasy painter. It's actually a recreation painting of Captain America #100 done into the new fad of Marvel Zombies.
The second piece of art is actually what's going to be given away to anyone who preorders their 3 day passes for the show. It's drawn by Bryan (ULTIMATES) Hitch, who is Marvel exclusive, but has always wanted a shot at drawing Superman, so he's done it. Since Christy and I have pre-ordered 3 day passes, we'll be receiving one each, so one to frame and one to do whatever...
The third piece of art is as it says, from my favorite comic artist, Travis (METABARONS) Charest. Here's the thing with this guy...he lives in France, and this is his only american con this year (or so I've been told). He is also one of those artists that is like IMPOSSIBLE to get original art from (I've got a poster autographed, but that's it). Here, he's drawn Captain America from the 40's, and as you can see, it's a piece of genius. Don't expect to see TOO much from him, as he's been working on a Metabarons graphic novel for what seems like 3 years now. For current work, look at Dark Horse Comics KNIGHTS OF THE OLD REPUBLIC, which he's currently painting the covers for.
The fourth piece of art is a piece I recently purchased, and is by none other than John (ASTONISHING X-MEN) Cassaday. Unfortunately, he's not going to make the Heroes Con this year, and he's a really cool guy...I got to talk to him for about 2 hours when Astonishing started 2 years ago at this convention. He's totally the GQ artist. But he's so down to earth, he didn't mind just talking...
Neither did Tony Harris or Tom Feister of Ex Machina, either, as they were also part of the 2 hour discussion. I thanked them for taking their time away from deadlines to come out and see fans because they probably didn't get thanked enough.
Finally...the last piece of art...Mark Texeira's Ghost Rider. This one is a pencil sketch done on FCBD this year. I love this man's work, and him and his brother-in-law, Javier Saltares are going to be at the show this year, promoting their new GHOST RIDER series written by Daniel Way. And though I'd love to get a sketch of Ardy or Landis from him, he's never really seemed like that personable of a guy to be able to ask that to...unlike Brandon Peterson, Cully Hamner (and the Gaijin Studio guys), Mike Weiringo, Tim Townsend (Who won't be there this year, booo) and others that just seem really grateful to have people looking at their work. Tim Townsend gave me some great black and white prints because we used to talk online back in the day before artists couldn't go online because they'd get hounded for commissions or whatever.
I really miss those days.
Well, I'm going to end this anniversary blogpost now, but please, if you'd like, share your favorite blog moment in the comments, since this is such a momentus occassion.
Thanks for reading, and here's to another 300 posts!
The first piece (at the bottom of the five pieces), is the Heroes Convention poster that's given away to all attendees of the show, from Arthur Suydam, the fantasy painter. It's actually a recreation painting of Captain America #100 done into the new fad of Marvel Zombies.
The second piece of art is actually what's going to be given away to anyone who preorders their 3 day passes for the show. It's drawn by Bryan (ULTIMATES) Hitch, who is Marvel exclusive, but has always wanted a shot at drawing Superman, so he's done it. Since Christy and I have pre-ordered 3 day passes, we'll be receiving one each, so one to frame and one to do whatever...
The third piece of art is as it says, from my favorite comic artist, Travis (METABARONS) Charest. Here's the thing with this guy...he lives in France, and this is his only american con this year (or so I've been told). He is also one of those artists that is like IMPOSSIBLE to get original art from (I've got a poster autographed, but that's it). Here, he's drawn Captain America from the 40's, and as you can see, it's a piece of genius. Don't expect to see TOO much from him, as he's been working on a Metabarons graphic novel for what seems like 3 years now. For current work, look at Dark Horse Comics KNIGHTS OF THE OLD REPUBLIC, which he's currently painting the covers for.
The fourth piece of art is a piece I recently purchased, and is by none other than John (ASTONISHING X-MEN) Cassaday. Unfortunately, he's not going to make the Heroes Con this year, and he's a really cool guy...I got to talk to him for about 2 hours when Astonishing started 2 years ago at this convention. He's totally the GQ artist. But he's so down to earth, he didn't mind just talking...
Neither did Tony Harris or Tom Feister of Ex Machina, either, as they were also part of the 2 hour discussion. I thanked them for taking their time away from deadlines to come out and see fans because they probably didn't get thanked enough.
Finally...the last piece of art...Mark Texeira's Ghost Rider. This one is a pencil sketch done on FCBD this year. I love this man's work, and him and his brother-in-law, Javier Saltares are going to be at the show this year, promoting their new GHOST RIDER series written by Daniel Way. And though I'd love to get a sketch of Ardy or Landis from him, he's never really seemed like that personable of a guy to be able to ask that to...unlike Brandon Peterson, Cully Hamner (and the Gaijin Studio guys), Mike Weiringo, Tim Townsend (Who won't be there this year, booo) and others that just seem really grateful to have people looking at their work. Tim Townsend gave me some great black and white prints because we used to talk online back in the day before artists couldn't go online because they'd get hounded for commissions or whatever.
I really miss those days.
Well, I'm going to end this anniversary blogpost now, but please, if you'd like, share your favorite blog moment in the comments, since this is such a momentus occassion.
Thanks for reading, and here's to another 300 posts!
Thursday, June 22, 2006
Post 299: Isn't it funny how these trends start?
Everyone I know suddenly is talking about how Chuck Norris' beard is impervious to pain, how he makes books tell him what he wants to know and how he counts to infinity...twice.
Well, I've gone ahead and added to the trend, with the official UNOfficial WHAT WOULD CHUCK NORRIS DO T-Shirt.
That's right, I'm joining in on the hoopla, because its just too damned funny. You can actually view this Black T-shirt with White lettering at my store, at the site:
http://www.cafepress.com/potchak.63024532
The tee is 19.99, since that's what Cafepress charges for the shirt, but anyone who wants to order one, I'll send you a FREE The Ardy Vanstarr Adventures Magnet, since they are also now on sale on the site (a 2.49 value BEFORE shipping).
See, it isn't so bad. In fact, ANY T-shirt Purchase for the time being will be shipped a FREE THE ARDY VANSTARR ADVENTURES MAGNET.
Thanks for listening.
Everyone I know suddenly is talking about how Chuck Norris' beard is impervious to pain, how he makes books tell him what he wants to know and how he counts to infinity...twice.
Well, I've gone ahead and added to the trend, with the official UNOfficial WHAT WOULD CHUCK NORRIS DO T-Shirt.
That's right, I'm joining in on the hoopla, because its just too damned funny. You can actually view this Black T-shirt with White lettering at my store, at the site:
http://www.cafepress.com/potchak.63024532
The tee is 19.99, since that's what Cafepress charges for the shirt, but anyone who wants to order one, I'll send you a FREE The Ardy Vanstarr Adventures Magnet, since they are also now on sale on the site (a 2.49 value BEFORE shipping).
See, it isn't so bad. In fact, ANY T-shirt Purchase for the time being will be shipped a FREE THE ARDY VANSTARR ADVENTURES MAGNET.
Thanks for listening.
Wednesday, June 21, 2006
Post 298: Hypothetical
IF you were to tell a loved one that you are not going to talk to, IM, TXT Msg or Phone a person because it is a detriment to your relationship...is it okay to contact that person if it is "purely innocent?"
"Purely innocent?" Sure...like, "How ya doin?...Ok...Good. Gotta run, stay outta trouble." Y'know, not the "Hey, hopefully I can leave my husband for you, and then be back in time for dinner..."
See with me...Any type of deceit is lying. Its how I am. I don't do it to you, I don't expect it done to me. If it is done to me, you are breaking trust and you are ruining what you've worked "hard" to establish. I don't like being deceived, no matter what the cause or purpose. I don't like being lied to for any reason.
I'd find it much easier to deal with a situation where I was cheated on and told about it. At least that way, I could say, "get out of my life you dirty tramp...." because obviously, someone in that kind of situation doesn't want their home life the way that it is anyway, so the release is at least mildly expected.
Now see, the question at hand is something I feel very strnogly about because it creates a "give me the benefit of the doubt, and I will prove what I want" scenario that if you allow it to occur once, it'll continue. It's a junkie's mentality and it continues to go until you own up to it, take responsibility for it and start acting like an adult. Hell, this is why twelve step programs were created in first place.
Another thing I can't stand is this..."I feel like if I'm told I'm not allowed to do something, it makes me want to do it more..." What the hell is this? It is basically a drug abuser's feeling for the coke or the heroin that is totally bad for them...they KNOW it is bad for them, and it makes the Jones that much worse.
If you aren't willing to make your decisions in life based on what you believe, are you living a lie?
And finally...who out there has ever placed themselves into a position where they are so low on themselves that instead of grabbing the bull by the horns and riding the problems out to see the light that EVERYONE knows can and will happen, they just continue to make mistakes, create lies and live in their own filth based on the decisions that keep piling up because they don't like themselves?
Me...I don't like a lot of things I've done in my life, but I'd never do anything to hurt those I love or care about on purpose for the fact that it may cause me a SINGLE MOMENT of happiness, when its my overall LIFE that is important to me. Why do people live for a single moment, when if they live for their life they'll ultimately find some sembalence of happiness in there somewhere?
You folks that read this can try to decipher a hidden meaning here, but I don't think there is one. I truly feel that I try to live my life the way I'm supposed to. Not lying, not stealing, not cheating or deceiving, but I haven't been given the happiness of Earl's list in My Name is Earl, and I haven't been given the meaning of life...and I'm fine with that. Am I bound to find out anyway? Probably not.
Why is it that some people choose the wrong way and the wrong path through life, and yet skate by without a scratch, yet people that live an 85% healthy life of not hurting or deceiving gets into as much of a gamut as I do?
Don't worry, I'm actually not depressed right now. I'm just living my life the way I always do, and trying to enjoy the captions...even if they are in a foreign language to me at this point.
I'd love to hear opinions on this stuff. Thanks in advance!
"Purely innocent?" Sure...like, "How ya doin?...Ok...Good. Gotta run, stay outta trouble." Y'know, not the "Hey, hopefully I can leave my husband for you, and then be back in time for dinner..."
See with me...Any type of deceit is lying. Its how I am. I don't do it to you, I don't expect it done to me. If it is done to me, you are breaking trust and you are ruining what you've worked "hard" to establish. I don't like being deceived, no matter what the cause or purpose. I don't like being lied to for any reason.
I'd find it much easier to deal with a situation where I was cheated on and told about it. At least that way, I could say, "get out of my life you dirty tramp...." because obviously, someone in that kind of situation doesn't want their home life the way that it is anyway, so the release is at least mildly expected.
Now see, the question at hand is something I feel very strnogly about because it creates a "give me the benefit of the doubt, and I will prove what I want" scenario that if you allow it to occur once, it'll continue. It's a junkie's mentality and it continues to go until you own up to it, take responsibility for it and start acting like an adult. Hell, this is why twelve step programs were created in first place.
Another thing I can't stand is this..."I feel like if I'm told I'm not allowed to do something, it makes me want to do it more..." What the hell is this? It is basically a drug abuser's feeling for the coke or the heroin that is totally bad for them...they KNOW it is bad for them, and it makes the Jones that much worse.
If you aren't willing to make your decisions in life based on what you believe, are you living a lie?
And finally...who out there has ever placed themselves into a position where they are so low on themselves that instead of grabbing the bull by the horns and riding the problems out to see the light that EVERYONE knows can and will happen, they just continue to make mistakes, create lies and live in their own filth based on the decisions that keep piling up because they don't like themselves?
Me...I don't like a lot of things I've done in my life, but I'd never do anything to hurt those I love or care about on purpose for the fact that it may cause me a SINGLE MOMENT of happiness, when its my overall LIFE that is important to me. Why do people live for a single moment, when if they live for their life they'll ultimately find some sembalence of happiness in there somewhere?
You folks that read this can try to decipher a hidden meaning here, but I don't think there is one. I truly feel that I try to live my life the way I'm supposed to. Not lying, not stealing, not cheating or deceiving, but I haven't been given the happiness of Earl's list in My Name is Earl, and I haven't been given the meaning of life...and I'm fine with that. Am I bound to find out anyway? Probably not.
Why is it that some people choose the wrong way and the wrong path through life, and yet skate by without a scratch, yet people that live an 85% healthy life of not hurting or deceiving gets into as much of a gamut as I do?
Don't worry, I'm actually not depressed right now. I'm just living my life the way I always do, and trying to enjoy the captions...even if they are in a foreign language to me at this point.
I'd love to hear opinions on this stuff. Thanks in advance!
Post 297: Heroes Con 2007! And cars....
Hey all.
Recently, due to my issues at home, I thought that I'd be unable to attend Heroes Con in Charlotte. This really sucked, due to the fact that my favorite artist, Travis Charest is going to be there, and this is his ONLY American con this year. Those who don't know his stuff, check out his art, here...groups.msn.com/travischarest, trust me, you'll MORE than be glad you did. I'm going to try to at least get his sketch book or maybe even try to geta sketch from him, but I'm sure his line will be long enough to where I may have to get on a waiting list or something...(sucks).
This con is going to probably be bigger than the recent Philadelphia convention put on by Wizard World, because Wizard wanted to put another con on in Atlanta that weekend (June 30-July 2nd). Due to this, the comic community rallied behind the "little convention that could" and are planning to make this the biggest con in years (probably since Top Cow made the trek in 1998).
Anyway, I just wanted to say that Christy, my wife, has told me she's going to take next Thursday off so that we can drive down to Charlotte (the Convention Center is where it's at for anyone interested), and then come back on Friday after I've been able to get to the convention...
Of course, the following week, I'll be getting a new car...and I'm looking at the Nissan Sentra 1.8S...probably a 2004-2005. If anyone has any opinions about this model vehicle, please let me know...I think for the features I'm looking for and the pricing I want to look at this is probably the best options for me...but if anyone has another idea, please let me know...the other car that I thought was kinda of cool was a Suzuki Aerio SR, but I have no idea on their resale value nor how they hold up over time (something I've been told a Nissan is good at).
Anyway, help here would be great, folks. As always, you can post here, or email me at rpotchak@gmail.com
One last note...ANYBODY reading this that has my SUNCOM WIRELESS Number...it will be changing as of July 2nd. GET IN CONTACT WITH ME if you need my new number...and I'm not going to post it on my blog...
Recently, due to my issues at home, I thought that I'd be unable to attend Heroes Con in Charlotte. This really sucked, due to the fact that my favorite artist, Travis Charest is going to be there, and this is his ONLY American con this year. Those who don't know his stuff, check out his art, here...groups.msn.com/travischarest, trust me, you'll MORE than be glad you did. I'm going to try to at least get his sketch book or maybe even try to geta sketch from him, but I'm sure his line will be long enough to where I may have to get on a waiting list or something...(sucks).
This con is going to probably be bigger than the recent Philadelphia convention put on by Wizard World, because Wizard wanted to put another con on in Atlanta that weekend (June 30-July 2nd). Due to this, the comic community rallied behind the "little convention that could" and are planning to make this the biggest con in years (probably since Top Cow made the trek in 1998).
Anyway, I just wanted to say that Christy, my wife, has told me she's going to take next Thursday off so that we can drive down to Charlotte (the Convention Center is where it's at for anyone interested), and then come back on Friday after I've been able to get to the convention...
Of course, the following week, I'll be getting a new car...and I'm looking at the Nissan Sentra 1.8S...probably a 2004-2005. If anyone has any opinions about this model vehicle, please let me know...I think for the features I'm looking for and the pricing I want to look at this is probably the best options for me...but if anyone has another idea, please let me know...the other car that I thought was kinda of cool was a Suzuki Aerio SR, but I have no idea on their resale value nor how they hold up over time (something I've been told a Nissan is good at).
Anyway, help here would be great, folks. As always, you can post here, or email me at rpotchak@gmail.com
One last note...ANYBODY reading this that has my SUNCOM WIRELESS Number...it will be changing as of July 2nd. GET IN CONTACT WITH ME if you need my new number...and I'm not going to post it on my blog...
Friday, June 16, 2006
Post 296: Civil War Update...
So Marvel's second issue of CIVIL WAR came out this week, and wow. Mark Millar is still doing the things that he's been known for a long time, and he's doing them amazingly.
In this issue, without trying to give too much away, One MAJOR character shows teh world his identity (it was spoiled by the NEW YORK POST), and Captain America is recruiting other costumed heroes that are against registration.
Steve McNiven's art is top notch, and just seems to look like an animated movie more than it looks like a comic book. Morry Hollowell is not only outdoing himself with the coloring on the book, but really gives it a gritty feel, that really gos perfectly with Mc's art.
I just love this story, and from the sounds of it, this will be the straw that breaks said character's life up, and hopefully it'll continue down this path of one huge thing per issue.
So far greatness. I just hope Millar dosn't finish it like he did with WANTED.
BUY THIS COMIC...this is probably the best comic story I've read in YEARS.
In this issue, without trying to give too much away, One MAJOR character shows teh world his identity (it was spoiled by the NEW YORK POST), and Captain America is recruiting other costumed heroes that are against registration.
Steve McNiven's art is top notch, and just seems to look like an animated movie more than it looks like a comic book. Morry Hollowell is not only outdoing himself with the coloring on the book, but really gives it a gritty feel, that really gos perfectly with Mc's art.
I just love this story, and from the sounds of it, this will be the straw that breaks said character's life up, and hopefully it'll continue down this path of one huge thing per issue.
So far greatness. I just hope Millar dosn't finish it like he did with WANTED.
BUY THIS COMIC...this is probably the best comic story I've read in YEARS.
Post 295: Coloring books and milestones...
So today is actually the fifth anniversary of my first date with Christy, which coincidentally enough is two days AFTER the two year anniversary of me asking her to marry me...weird, huh?
So with the TRAIN concert set for next month in Raleigh...the same band's concert that I proposed to her at those two years ago (during "our song," Drops Of Jupiter which also happened to be the final snog of the night), things with the wife are starting to pan out and turn. As long as she remains honest and less selfish, things will continue to improve.
Again, with this situation, its never been about me not loving her...I love her more than life itself...its everything else...heh.
Ok...enough about the wife :), now its time to discuss comics. I've finished the FLAT colors on the first ten pages of The Ardy Vanstarr Adventures, and now I'm playing with adding some shading, some depth and some just fun stuff to the comic. Ultimately, I'm giving JK approval on the art, so whether we'll see the FLAT color, or the newer shaded stuff remains to be seen, but I'm doing both and we'll see where it goes.
So with the TRAIN concert set for next month in Raleigh...the same band's concert that I proposed to her at those two years ago (during "our song," Drops Of Jupiter which also happened to be the final snog of the night), things with the wife are starting to pan out and turn. As long as she remains honest and less selfish, things will continue to improve.
Again, with this situation, its never been about me not loving her...I love her more than life itself...its everything else...heh.
Ok...enough about the wife :), now its time to discuss comics. I've finished the FLAT colors on the first ten pages of The Ardy Vanstarr Adventures, and now I'm playing with adding some shading, some depth and some just fun stuff to the comic. Ultimately, I'm giving JK approval on the art, so whether we'll see the FLAT color, or the newer shaded stuff remains to be seen, but I'm doing both and we'll see where it goes.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)