Wednesday, September 28, 2011

Before & After #2: Lewis

Most of my designs begin with a sketch. Sometimes the finished illustration remains faithful to the drawing, and sometimes it ends up very different. Today for “Before & After” we've got a look at the evolution of Lewis, the TOOMASOOBA arcade game master!

Monday, September 19, 2011

New Toomatoons!

Been busy designing some new critters here at TOOMASOOBA HQ, and I think they're looking pretty cool. Take a look below for a sneak peek at Buckley, Lolly and Jasper...more coming soon!

Tuesday, September 13, 2011

Creature Feature #3: Mr. Darcy

(“Creature Feature” is a regular blog staple that puts the spotlight on a TOOMASOOBA creation and information on how it came to be!) 

Silly Little Story: Mr. Darcy juggles many interests -- he loves his garden, he is president of the local vinyl records club and he earns his living as a crossing guard. Mr. Darcy is also trying to build a time machine. Mr. Darcy is a very busy man.

Behind the Scenes: I originally created Mr. Darcy as part of a button set...I needed a few simple and bold designs that really stood out on a one inch "canvas", and I felt this guy really fit the bill. With the later addition of ears and a fancy hat, he ended up being featured in the Impromptu art show last spring. And no, I'm not exactly sure why I named him after a character from "Pride and Prejudice".

Shameless Plugs: Pick up a Mr. Darcy Shirt or grab some buttons featuring his face!

Friday, September 9, 2011

Journal Comics

Several months ago, the 4AFTER5 crew decided to try our hands at drawing some journal strips. In the tradition of James Kochalka and other online illustrators, we each recorded (in comic form) a moment or experience from our day...it could be funny or run-of-the-mill or, well, whatever. And we gave it a shot for one week -- not too long, really, but a fun experience nonetheless.

Click here to read the seven comics created by yours truly!

One of the strips "starring" myself and my good buddy Jonathan.

Friday, September 2, 2011

Inspiration Machine #3: ReGeared

I first met Rachel Spire of ReGEARED at the 2011 Spring Handmade Bash in Dallas and took to her work right off the bat. She creates furniture, clocks, art and more from reclaimed gears and other old bike parts. I do quite a bit of mountain biking in my spare time and I love unique decorative pieces, so I had no choice but to buy something from her booth immediately! I'm looking at a bike gear clock on my mantle as I type this entry, as a matter of fact.

If you're into outdoor sports (or even if you're not), visit the ReGEARED Etsy shop and website and pick up something awesome! It will inspire you to get out there and hop on your bike, I promise.