A Quick Drawing

Finished Painting

I was able to steal a little time here and there while working on several other projects to finish this piece up. I actually started it 3 times, but was never happy with the direction it was going in, (artistically, not literally) — till now. Glad I persisted.

An Ink Drawing, and How It Happened

Background Noise

Drawing in front of the tube last night… technically anyway. Although I would have looked up if something sounded interesting. But, for the most part, I was busy drawing. As for what was on — Probably the news… I didn’t look up.

The Cover Concept

Good ideas usually get better with a little help. This was my first cover concept for “Jump!” I wanted to see what the main character, Barb, might look like while I was still working out the story. This image really stuck with me but it was suggested that I take another stab at it. The word Jump… well, didn’t jump. Now wouldn’t that have been awkward. letting go of an idea isn't always easy, but I'm always amazed at how much better they get when they're challenged a little. I'm glad I had the opportunity to re-think this cover.

The Barb Book

I was in Starbucks the other day and had “jump!” with me. A woman with three kids saw the book and shouted, “Oh, you have the Barb book! We just love that book, we read it every night.” I’m thrilled to have my book identified by its main character.

Sign them? I thought they said read them!

I signed 8 cases of Jump this morning. 

Duck Race

And now for something completely different… I’m Looking forward to painting this one.

Sophie

Overwhelmingly happy, it was all Sophie could do to keep from cracking a smile.

Perspective

I liked the dramatic perspective of this sketch.

Decided to finish it up in line.

Whoa, check this out! Amazon.com has the “Look Inside” feature functional on my book. Very cool! 

A Very Short Fishing Trip

Felicity was happy and she knew it. Which of course, prompted her favorite song.

Flinch: A bit wobbly and unreasonably nervous around buzzing noises, the once unflappable horticulturist was never quite the same after his unfortunate dentist waiting room experience.

Eye Robot

When it comes to working in pen and ink, there's no dilly-dallying about it. No hemming and hawing. No beating around the bush. You just say it — or put the pen down. It's an exercise in brevity, which is why I like it so much. It keeps my color work on track by reminding me what's important, and what's not.

I'll be signing books at the Tucson Festival of Books this Saturday, (3/15), at 10am. Stop by and say hello.