Inspirational break in Kyoto..
Chance to re-engage with woodblock aesthetics, visit the temple of all things Manga and sketch on the Kamogawa at sundown, One Cup to hand, lovers in kimono and geta sprawled decorously on the invisibly and effectively (if vaguely uncomfortable) propped up grass. Cranes in the water… the sound of the city recedes, it is easy to see the past.
Just finished a great initiative for Medicare Local in the Northern Territory. Boab Design commissioned two illustrations, one urban, the other specifically tailored for the indigenous community. They had to reference the place, but be anonymous enough that a wide range of people could relate to the image; while also including very specific details from Medicare.
Each state has its own version of the program, but for the diverse NT, Boab boldly – and effectively – chose to use illustration rather than a generic stock photo. Resulting promotional campaign is strong and stands out. Really pleased to have been involved.
Few roughs from 37 page graphic novella Cut Print. Story hanging together – and crucially, ending works.
It’s said we are attracted to that which scares us, which in my case must be hands and cars. All that was needed was a side story involving a horse.. Months of inking ahead, in between other work. Fresh brush and pens – and with quick trip to Kyoto coming up, chance to source some alternatives as well.
Cut Print is a cautionary tale of technology. The anchor piece of a book of three, alongside Something Wicked and one other short.
City on the harbour – Sydney a few days off winter. Sparkling night spent down by the Opera House as VIVID lights up. In town for an event at the MCA – a film made up of interviews with Byron Bay creatives about the perils and pleasures of making a sea change. Happy to have contributed some small grains of, if not exactly wisdom, considered thought about being an artist based outside of a metropolis. Good roll up – even if some of the audience came for the view. Really, who wouldn’t? There were 15m glowing rabbits on the headland.
Just wrapped up couple of concept drawings for Toxic Raccoon, a commissioned animation and graphic novel proposal. The project pitch will provide context to the images, so was able to take liberties with content.
Brief was to make the raccoon engaging and approachable, to contrast with her toxic and fierce Incredible Hulk-like transformation in the face of evil and environmental corruption. Good fun to do .. and with a valuable message.
Relaunch – or rather fresh launch – of website after several months of diversions and distractions; mainly a new 3-7 picturebook featuring Wee Charles. 
And just the last few days, finally started Cut Paste Print graphic novella – most definitely not for the 3-7s. Thumbnails done – now the fun part begins. It’s worked out a third longer than anticipated, but story remains lean. Bit more dialogue than Something Wicked but still flirting with the ‘wordless’ graphic tradition.