New Year, New Projects

Happy belated new year! So far 2010 has been eventful, even after only 11 days. It looked as if January might be a little slow, so I started on two new portfolio pieces, trying to fill the gaps in my portfolio. I decided to work on two paintings at the same time so I wouldn't waste time letting paint dry. Maybe I can double my productivity this year.

While I was working on these, a new job came in. One that has been on the back burner for nearly a month. It is a commission for a series of book covers. I'm excited about meeting my 2009 goal only a few days into 2010. It's not a big publisher, but it's a paying job, so I'm thankful. Obviously I can't say much, but I'll post the results once it's done and published.

Looking forward, I'm planning my trip to Houston in two weeks. The Magic: The Gathering Worldwake Pre-Release has the potential to be a great event. I just bought a art traveling case, which will be able to fit my 18x24 canvases plus all my prints. Rather expensive, but it's an investment that will pay for itself soon enough.

January has proven to be a month of investments. In addition to the art case and a page in the Directory of Illustration, a full chain mail shirt was delivered to the studio today. It's another necessary addition to the collection of period costumes. Eventually, I might have one of the best collections of historical outfits of all the 26-year-olds in the country.

To understand why I need all this stuff, please read this post over at Tor.com. It follows illustrator Sam Weber as his completes a book cover. His methods are generally the same as mine and you can see how he requires good photo reference and interesting costumes. But while Mr. Weber has access to the costumes of fellow illustrators, I need to rely on my own collection. I haven't been as good as I should be at cultivating relationships with illustrators who may be able to help me out in those areas.

That might change, however, come November. I'll be one of the guest artists at IlluxCon, the premier convention/art show for fantasy illustrators. I was honored to be granted a spot. Perhaps it will be the turning point in my career. We shall see ...