Defekt

Here's some newly published work. Always a treat to see my work in print, and cover assignments are the best.

I've worked with Tor.com on short story assignments and a cover for Finna, with designer Christine Foltzer. The book spawned this sequel, both books written by Nino Cipri. The series is a multidimensional romp through a Swedish multinational box store.

“Finna is a magical anti-capitalist adventure that crosses dimensions, abolishes gender binaries, and liberates retail workers. Reading it is a goddamn delight.” —Annalee Newitz

The final cover image:

Some cover concepts submitted:

You can order a copy through TOR.com

The first book in the series, Finna

30 Years

Looking back on the past year: a mix of challenges, successes and interesting assignments.

This year marked my 30th year as a full-time freelancer, a milestone. In one way, it's a marker of both age and experience. In another, it's a testament to resourcefulness, creative thinking and being able to adapt to change. Throw in some perserverence and determination and you have a balance that's carried me this far. I'm incredibly proud of the work that I do and the clients I have, and I'm constantly humbled by the incredibly talented artists whose work I admire and that I consider friends. I don't intend to slow down any time soon.

Being an illustrator requires a constant burning curiosity and a certain level of optimism. You have to look at your work objectively and listen and learn when you get challenged by a new assignment. I also spend time pursuing creative ideas, doing personal work, and working with wood or paint or remodelling my house. I get outside as much as I can to recharge my batteries and avoid burnout and anxiety (something most working artists deal with regularly). Always looking for the right balance, it's a work in progress.

I left my teaching position at Sheridan in December, a difficult choice because the students I work with are so talented, enthusiastic and energetic. I'd love to return to the classroom but for now I will make good use of the extra time.

A composite of images from 30 years in the biz:

Some assignment work images:

PM Network, illustration and layout in the spread (Art Director Hugo Espinosa)

Box Store Sci-Fi Book cover for Tor.com (Design by Christine Foltzer):

The McLuhan Way, for Watershed Magazine, about the local legacy of Marshall McLuhan:

Interesting feature on EVTOLS (Electronic Vertical Take-off & Landing) vehicles for AOPA:

The right NOT to bear arms, about the dangers of teachers carrying firearms, for Teaching Tolerance:

It was a busy year, so these are just some of the highlights. I resolve to post more work in the new year. On that note, I made this for a group show and calendar at Blizzmax Gallery. Best wishes for 2020, keep your head up!

Wrapping Up, part 1

It's been a busy year, a lot of great projects completed. I thought I would share a few images from recent assignment work to tie things up.

But first, here is my dog, when he was a puppy, to get everyone warmed up and feel the joy of the season.

 He's the best.

I'll start off with the good news, let's keep our spirits up. I love book assignments. Here's a recent cover assignment for Anvil Press, featuring Albert Einstein. I have worked with them on a number of projects. I proposed a series of sketches, the publisher loved them so much they opted for 2 versions of the Atomic Storybook. Here's the first:

 

The plan during the Cold War by the U.S. to set off a nuclear explosion on the moon received some press last month, with a great segment by Colbert. Crazy, unbelievable stuff, but given the times, anything could have happened. I did an alternate version of Einstein for the other cover. Love that face. Here's a detail from the second cover

Enjoying some down time this month. Fixing up the house and getting ready for the Holidays. Had a great time at the Nook Holiday Sale a couple of weeks ago and spending time at the rink watching my son play hockey. Who needs the NHL?

Relaxing with some Holiday cheer. Thanks to Joel Kimmel, who gave me one of these this summer. My new favourite beer.