Arte de Andy Perez

Ace Print: behind the scenes

2011-06-19T22:15:00.002-06:00

Just a bit of behind the scenes look at the creation of the limited edition LIB print that will be available at the Albuquerque Comic Expo this weekend. Much as a lot of other works, it all starts with a doodle, then inks and ends with tones. For the final look at the print, join us at Facebook fan page.

Happy Holidays Revisited

2011-04-29T21:23:00.004-06:00

Wow, I've heard "busy is good" although I would admit, I would rather be busy than not, but being busy sure makes the time go fast. Rather than rant on and on about time, I thought I would share the lady above (title: "BOOM"), a piece I recently did for a submission this past week. Much like the new Beastie Boys latest rad revisited track, I too revisited an idea that was making circles in the brain. It may look similar to the Happy Holidays image done recently, but I just keep seeing it differently. I took a few splashes of ink wash to it along with some hues and a sprinkle of halftones and I really felt I got it right this go round. I suppose the feeling is mutual among artist, hence the many remixes and re-imagines out there.

Saturday Morning Toons: Batman/Joker Beyond

2011-04-09T14:54:00.003-06:00

Been missing a couple of these and the Mondays as well, but better late than never as they say. Batman Beyond and a beyond Joker from The Batman cartoon. Why the mash up? Because the person that suggested this Saturdays submission requested a Batman Beyond and I know he is a HUGE fan of this version of the Joker. Maybe its the Tim Burton inspired sleeves that does it for him, don't know.

Music Monday: Grieves and Budo

2011-03-21T23:33:00.007-06:00

So this weeks suggested piece for MM is Grieves and Budo's Pack It Up. The suggestion not only stops at the tune but the piece must be influenced by the music video. I'll admit that I've never heard the music before so I took to the web and became a fan instantly. Thanks Erica for the suggestion, I definitely dug the beat.

Saturday Morning Toons: Zim

2011-03-19T10:05:00.006-06:00

So this might not be from the days of future past per say but it should have been. Invader Zim full fills my need for over use of purple and sarcasm in my animation watching. Best part, since it is on Nick, I get to share it with the kiddos and not think twice about the humor Johnen has provided us. Some say this would be a WINNING situation. Yeah that was bad and over used, I know. As Zim would say: "This has nothing to do with jelly!" DOOM, DOOM!

Staple! Wrap-Up

2011-03-17T20:39:00.013-06:00

I'm a little late on my Staple! wrap-up but hey it's not easy to put such a rad show into words. For all that have attended the show in the past or dropped by this last one, you know that the day(s) is filled with creative forces from all sides and evening with live art to boot. Great times to meet and catch up with friends and get a LOT of commissions out. Speaking of commissions, a special thanks to everyone who was patient with me during the wait. Due to the time frame I was only able to take a couple of pics at the show. Here we go...

Staple! was extra special this year because it also was the first event that Mike-E and I were able to debut the collected works of Lonely in Black Vol.1. Of course I had to take a photo of the first person to take get the book. Thanks Kali for the Support!

Some commissions that came my way as well. Not much to explain the requests are from one end to another. These are just a couple that I managed to take a quick photo of. Thanks Brain for letting me take a crack at the mash up this year.

Like to Thank all the Staple crew for letting us be a part of yet another great show, looking forward to next year!

Music Monday: Reznor

2011-03-14T21:51:00.003-06:00

It was inevitable, anyone who knows me know me, knows that NIN is in my blood. Some people have tiger blood, I have blood made of nine inch nails. So of course this entry would in fact make itself here. I was on shuffle through the library and as the image notes, it has a bit of reptile, the slip album and some pigs marching from a head like a hole. The goggle look is from the closer video which also contributed the tone of the piece. The mystery is did I use coffee or Dr. Pepper for staining? I'm sure someone out there will figure it out. MARCH!

Saturday Morning Cartoons: Who Elmo Piggy

2011-03-12T09:17:00.003-07:00

So there I was watching some saturday morning cartoons with my kids and a bowl of Lucky Charms on hand when I realized what on Charlie Sheens warlock world are we looking at. Thus started the rant about back in my days and I continued channeling grandparents around the world, questioning the lack of quality programing today unlike the shows back in my day. Volton is now replaced by Power Rangers and Masters of the Universe by Bikini Bottom. Okay, maybe Sponge Bob is alright after all they did have Pantera and David Bowie on the show. Where are you going with this you ask? In protest to today's standards I will start a new theme here to the blog, Saturday Morning Cartoons. My take on some favorites.

This morning I give to you a mash up commission that my friend Brian requested at the Staple Expo. A bit of Doctor Who, Ms. Piggy from the Muppets and Elmo from Sesame Street. If you have a favorite cartoon that you would like me to take a crack at send me the suggestion and I'll see about getting it drawn. 'Nuff ranting, my cereal is getting cold.

Music Monday: She & Him

2011-03-08T22:02:00.005-07:00

So I totally missed last weeks and because of travel I missed yesterday as well but I wasn't going to let another week go by without an entry. Because of the shear awesomeness of Zooey's voice and how it complemented a road trip back from Austin, I decided to carry on the tunes of She & Him to the blog. Even though it was the only CD we had in the car and it played on repeat for 9 hours, it never got old. Okay maybe it got a bit insane from time to time, but it did set the mood for the scenery. Never seen the Zooey Deschanel on vocals? Then it is time to hit the google! About the piece, just a quick combination of sharpies to a brown paper bag is all.

Staple! LIB limted Edition Print

2011-03-03T01:04:00.005-07:00

Yes I missed this weeks Music Monday but it was not intentional. With the Super Awesome Staple! Independent Media Expo right around the corner, I've been busy trying to get things together. One of many things is the Lonely In Black Limited Edition Print. How limited? Once they are gone, they're gone. Above is the before and after or as I like to call it the doodle and the bedazzled. This print will be available only at the show and measures 11X17 inches of goth!

Music Monday: Kurt Cobain

2011-02-21T22:03:00.003-07:00

In relation to yesterday being Kurt Cobain's birthday, I thought today's addition would be a quick rendering of Nirvana's front man. A very raw pencil doodle I ravaged out on paper as "Very Ape" grunges on the blaster in the background. It has been a while since I just jammed a sketch and regardless of the final outcome, never looking back to obsess about it. The pencil pretty much just ran with this one. What inspired the look? Well some of my favorite photos I've seen of him has him standing in front of statues with angel wings and it always looked like he was wearing them as for the glasses, back as a teen I had a poster in which he sported the bug looking shades. The sweater much like the flannels were his brand and the flower idea brought to you by the very colorful Heart Shape box video. I'm telling you the pencil had its own ideas today...

Career Day Glitter Effect

2011-02-17T21:25:00.004-07:00

A couple of quick Spidey head shot sketch cards for my kids career day. As my lovely children have described my work to their teachers, "daddy goes to work and draws all day". Their explanation of what a graphic artist does. None the less I thought a couple of giveaway sketch cards may add to the "cool factor" of being a professional artist "who draws all day".

Music Monday: Winehouse

2011-02-15T21:09:00.004-07:00

Music Monday on a Tuesday. This late week addition is jazzed up by the rhythms of Ms. Winehouse. Problems aside, she can melody the tunes of the blues. The image is actually another B&W piece I dusted off because I wanted to throw some technology colors to it. Coming fresh from a full overload of Valentines pink I went with it and kept her in the classic B&W of the classic tune era. Yup, that is a whole lot of pink.

Lonely In Black: Letters from Darkness TP

2011-02-13T20:58:00.005-07:00

What's this, WHAT'S THIS, its Wesley over there!!? YES, with much enthusiasm I reveal the first wave of the Lonely in Black: Letters From Darkness trade paperback copies that I just received in the mail. Can't begin to express the feeling in seeing and holding this collection. Reality sets in and it's still pretty rad. This collection includes all the issues of Lonely in Black plus a bear story that was printed in a very small run for a free comic book day years back. Oh also it has the art of Lonely in Black gallery in the back. Mike-E and I are extremely proud to share this with everyone, truly it was years in the making. Now the question that I've been getting all weekend long since the books arrival, when and were are these books going to be available? Beginning of March and the official first appearance will be at the Staple! Independent Media Expo. Soon after, it will be through this site, a few comic stores and at a couple of comic conventions. Look for the tab to appear in early March. Now, time to take on the next chapter!

Voltron: United and Drawn

2011-02-10T20:39:00.003-07:00

So what am I up to lately? A little on this and a little on that. What I am anxious to share with you all is that late last year I whipped up an image of Voltron for an awesome hardcover book released this month called Voltron: United and Drawn, an artbook from the great folks at 5finity and Moonstone books, that pays tribute to both versions of the cartoon series. What was a great experience for me was knowing that as a kid I would draw the lions over and over after the cartoon was over and now to see the published book with my contribution, well its just plan rad! Where can you get a copy, its as simple as clicking over to voltron.com webstore.

Music Monday: Bubbles

2011-02-07T23:19:00.004-07:00

Okay so this week has a bit of a trail for the reasoning to the image for Music Monday. Hop on for the ride. A while back I did an art book which had a variety of images both in black and white and in color. The piece above was originally B&W. Well tonight I revived it with a splash of color to make it version 2.0. So the ride doesn't stop there, my original intentions was to have the image pop so I added bubbles and it was with color that I got closer to seeing the piece as I originally envisioned it. The connection to music was that back in the day, and admittedly now as well, a top favorite film of mine is a small indie film called Mallrats. Within the soundtrack is an unreleased track called Bubbles by Bush. So in conclusion to my essay, the girl above is listening to Bush's Bubbles track and has officially become this weeks Music Monday entry. How's that for random.

Music Monday: Radiohead

2011-01-31T22:54:00.004-07:00

Why heavens Andy, why does that young lass have a head shaped of a radio. Well I'm glad you asked because today's piece comes from Radiohead. Been blasting In Rainbows as I art away and as a warm up, I jammed out this lady in my art memory book. Sadly some colors washed away in the scan, oh well.

Drac & Lilly

2011-01-30T22:44:00.003-07:00

Dropping in for a couple of quick notes, been talking a bit about working on things that I can't really announce due to contractual obligations but one thing that I can mention is the long awaited Monster/Ladies collaboration art book David Olivarez Jr. and I are working on. We are fully driven to accomplish this book this year and are about half way through it. The love tale book will see the light of day at this years Frank N'Con. The image above is at stage two, capturing O' Drac and Lilly just loving each others company. Romance is Grand.

On a side bar, I want to thank everyone that came out to support the Art Social show last night, the super rad folks at Monsterland Tattoos and Sun City Tattoos for letting me play in a palette filled with talent and Lindy of Cat As Trophy fame for lending a hand in my participation.

Red

2011-01-28T07:40:00.004-07:00

Above is a pic of the progression and finished version of a piece I created for the "Art Social" art show I'll be a part off this Saturday. Mainly used inks to give this ghostly lady some life. I wish I could say that I was in this place of blah and I reached to the darkest area of more blah to blast out the emotions of more blah blah but really I wanted to do a red piece. Nothing more, nothing less. Just a ghostly gal fashioning her mask in her red dress. Simple, right?

Info on the Monsterland Tattoo art show:
Art Social
12145 Montwood Suite B (next to rocca fitness)
Starts at 7:30
-Open bar
-Live painting
-Sun City Roller Girls
-Prints & T shirts for sale

for more info : 779-7282

Music Monday: 99 Luft (red) Ballons

2011-01-24T00:28:00.004-07:00

This weeks addition to Music Monday comes from the very contagious 99 luftballoons track made worldly popular by Nena. Although as anybody that knows me would tell you, I have a very low tolerance for balloons so it is odd that I have such a gravitational pull to this song. Hey its catchy and I dare anyone to say that they don't even hum along to it as it fills their background sound. Oh and yes there are 99 red balloons in this image.

Nameless

2011-01-19T21:19:00.004-07:00

Itching to get my hands on Erica Ambis's character for quite some time now. Hope I did it justice. Want to see what it looks like with a dab of glitter, click over to the facebook page and SMILE!

Music Mondays: The Distillers

2011-01-17T22:28:00.004-07:00

So this weeks suggestion came from my ghettoblaster, which I may say has a soft spot for The Distillers. One thing I've learned from the past is not to challenge the blaster and with the setting at random it demanded it! The piece was inspired by the band's front lady Brody Dalle, who I'll say has the looks to charm and the attitude to boot. She could easily be the official poster child for GRRL Power. So with a stroke of some bold red and some influential pink, we have this weeks submission to Music Monday. Viva La Punk!

Music Mondays: Gorillaz

2011-01-11T23:37:00.006-07:00

Music Mondays. What??! Yes, in an effort to post more and create more I decided to have a theme for Mondays in which I will create something that was inspired, linked to, influenced or anything by music. Might just have the music in the background and the piece flows or maybe a piece to tribute a band/artist that influenced me at the time. Possibilities are endless.

This week I went with the Gorillaz for no other than it feels good. Always liked the character portrayals of the band and the music is one end to the other from album to album and even song to song. In relation to what I am going to try to achieve with the "Music Mondays", I too will try and go from one extreme to another. Have a suggestion for Music Mondays? Head on over to the fan page @ Facebook and drop the suggestion. You never know, it might just make sense that week.

Happy New Year!

2011-01-01T20:06:00.004-07:00

Happy New Year!

Out with the '10 and on to the '11, here is hoping that everyone has a good one! As many do, I've made a few resolutions this year and one of them was to create more art. It may have not seemed that way because I didn't post enough, but the reasons were combination's of both busy on deadlines or creating things that I could not speak about until its release date. All in all it was a good year and I got to meet a ton a rad folks. Will try to share more this year! WORD!

While out on location I snagged a couple of Prisma's, a Sharpie & random ink pens and jammed the New Years Jack on my poor dusty & neglected sketch book. What other way can we have fun this holiday season then with the Pumpkin King!

Happy Holidays!

2010-12-26T12:05:00.003-07:00

Wishing all of you the very best and Happy Holiday!

Quorra de Tron

2010-12-20T20:12:00.003-07:00

Like most individuals, I too was part of the numbers that was Tron. Can't say much about it other then I enjoyed it for the entertainment value that it was. Small info about the piece, Quorra was created with India ink splats in 9X12 Bristol, some liquid paper here and there and some Photoshop highlights to wrap up the piece. Electrifying!

Happy Thanksgiving!

2010-11-25T18:56:00.002-07:00

Wishing everyone a Happy Thanksgiving!

Hack/Slash Sketch Cards

2010-11-19T23:46:00.005-07:00

Just a quick drop by to share the Hack and Slash sketch cards that I did for 5finity. Reading the books for some time now, I was excited to be able to work on this card series. First time sketching Vlad and Cassie, hoping it will not be the last.

WIzard World Wrap-Up (sort of)

2010-11-17T23:25:00.004-07:00

Why sort of? Because where the intention was to visually share the awesomeness of the Austin Con, I would realize photo ops to late. Also I would remember to take photos of the pieces I did at the con 10 seconds after the person walked away from the table. To everyone who waited patiently for art, thank you. For everyone who came and talked to us and embraced us as old friends, thank you. And to everyone who made us sell out of Lonely in Black issues, THANK YOU! By Sunday afternoon we were officially sold out of issues of LIB that I ended up offering free sketch cards in replacement for the issues not available. Above are two kind guys that I was able to snap a picture with holding original pieces.

On a side note I have been asked about when LIB #4 will be available for public consumption and the answer is now. A link will be up soon on the blog for purchase but if your needs are now, shoot me an email and we will expedite the order.

Lonely In Black #4

2010-11-08T23:52:00.005-07:00

The title says it all, yes its out. Written, Drawn and Printed! It really was years in the making and I'm really without words for the accomplishment this has been. This time though instead of me running on and on with words of expression, I proudly hand over the mic to Mike-E whom without his words the book would be a sad picture book...

It's been six days. Six days that the tiny blinking cursor of my word processor has flashed at me mockingly from the top of an empty white page. Six days since I was given the task to announce the release of the latest issue of Lonely in Black. I've written countless introductions and announcements in the past, a few mini stories here and there and four scripts for the comic. Yet this one simple announcement has been the most difficult thing I've ever had to write throughout the years that Andy and I have been working on the book. That's because this issue of the comic wraps up the storyline and brings us to the end of the Lonely in Black quadrilogy. It's been a decade in the making and I've got to admit that, while I'm not normally at a loss for words, polishing off the final issue has left me completely wordless. I’ve finally come to terms with the fact that there is no way I will ever be able to express how utterly momentous this occasion is to Andy and I. I would like to say that it’s kind of like learning how to drive, watching a baby take its first steps, owning your first home, taking a dream vacation, wrestling a bear (and winning), traveling through outer space, and capturing a unicorn. In that order. One of the greatest joys, however, comes from the fact that we get to share all this with you. So without further ado, I am pleased to announce the fourth and final installment in the Lonely in Black saga.

When and where can I get mine you ask? Well it will be making its debut at the Wizard World Con in Austin this weekend. Once the dust settles, it will be available here on this site. And oh, just because it is the end of what we started doesn't mean that its the end of Lonely in Black. There's a LIB special release planned for early next year. Stay tuned....

Late Halloween

2010-11-04T21:39:00.004-06:00

And just like that, October is done. I meant to post this image on Halloween but just ran out of time. Part of being an artist is having the opportunity to try different mediums and on Halloween I get asked to either draw on people or make there character believable. In this case a little of both. My subject wanted to be a Zombie Prom Queen so with a bit of imagination, make up and rainbow magic we pulled it off. What you are seeing is my artist rendition of what the loving zombie prom queen's photo would have looked like. Happy Belated Halloween everyone!

Chalk the Block 2010

2010-10-12T22:43:00.006-06:00

And cut! That is a wrap and another Chalk the Block event under our belts. As before, it was an awesome time to be had and a great opportunity to meet with people that we would normally not have the chance to converse with. The task was simple, chalk up a large block outside the art museum within 12 hours. Mike-E and I started the journey on Friday evening, got the first layer out in four hours and then continued the rest the following day from 6am to 2pm. Most of Saturday was spent detailing and obsessing. The piece represents my take of Mother Nature, hence the title Madre Nature. Dressed in a Spanish dress and sporting raven long black hair, she provides El Paso with the nurturing that it needs. Simple to understand and most of kids got it. Others thought she was a vampire. Oh silly children and their Twilights.

I'd like to give a GRAND thank you to Mike-E for the long hours assistance (I promise to buy you robot knees with I get rich), Jenny for the love and all that she does, Candie for the awesome photos she took, our family and friends for their support and a special thanks to Marina, Marisol, Victor and the rest of the Chalk the Block gang for the opportunity to contribute to this years Chalk the Block!

Chalk The Block III

2010-10-02T21:10:00.003-06:00

It's official, I will be a featured artist at this years Chalk the Block event in beautiful downtown El Paso! What will I be taking to the ground this year you ask? The lovely above whom goes by the name Madre Nature. With the awesome help of a young Mr. Michael Garcia, we will be covering a 10' x 5' block of downtown El Paso, outside the art museum by the waterfall, starting on Friday and Saturday. This will be the second time the young Garcia and I will take to the ground but not the first time we've collaborated in the form of art. Did someone say Lonely in Black? More chisme on that after the break. So if you have some time, come on by and check out the live art and the art festival on hand. For more information about the event, check out the Chalk the Block link.

Music Angel

2010-09-29T07:37:00.004-06:00

Its been a Month?! My Apologies to those who visit the site and have not seen any updates. There has been a few deadlines that just prevented me from getting on. The upside is that I will have more material and news to share in the next coming months. As for the pink winged lovely, carrying around the ghettoblaster, she was created on a 15X20 illustration board as part of a show I took part in last month.

On a side note, I want to thank all who bid on the sketch cards that benefited the March of Dimes. The event was a success and raised a good amount for the babies!

Zombie Bride

2010-08-26T07:31:00.003-06:00

Zombie Bride, an original piece created for a live art show I was a part of in August. Just having fun with ink wash and a white Prisma pencil on textured paper.

March of Dimes

2010-08-22T19:50:00.004-06:00

Recently I was given the opportunity to contribute some art on sketch cards to help the Third Annual steve4mod sketch card auctions benefiting the March of Dimes. All proceeds go to saving babes! The art you see above are the cards in questions, fortunately the Jack and Sally were so well received that they were immediately purchased! If you would like to purchase one of the remaining cards and help contribute to a wonderful cause, simply click here. Oh and yes, that is the first ever produced Goth Grrl/Wesley sketch card! Happy Bidding!

Mahfood Mix Tape Cards PT2

2010-08-15T21:11:00.003-06:00

Above you'll find three more sketch cards of the twelve that I did for the Jim Mahfood Mix Tape card series. Over-sized Crayons, Ladies, Blasters, whats not to love.

Mahfood Mix Tape Cards PT1

2010-08-09T22:18:00.004-06:00

A couple of months ago, I was asked if I would like to partake in an upcoming sketch card series for none other then Jim Mahfood's Mix Tape. WOULD I!! As most of you know Jim Mahfood is one of the most rad artists out there today and an obvious influence on the way I approach my live art. With no hesitation I jumped on it and produced 12 original sketch cards for his series. Above are two of the 12 cards that were produced and has made it out to the general public. For those unfamiliar with sketch cards, it is basically original art created on a trading cards. I definitely had a blast mixing this set and I look forward to future jams.

Post Live Art

2010-08-08T22:55:00.004-06:00

What wild times we live in and as I have said times before, I am grateful for the opportunities that I get to have as an artist. Last Wednesday, I had the opportunity to jam out some live art with fellow artist Daniel Dagones (bottom left) and Justin Brooks (bottom right) at the Border City Ale House and it was a great vibe. From speaking art techniques to meeting some great folks from El Paso and Las Cruces, it was definitely an event to remember. My contribution for the night was created from black and red ink on Illustration board (top right). The night also set up a stage where the three artist would change off on a collaboration piece where each would add something else where the last artist left off (top right). Thanks to all the folks who joined us and showed their support, a special thanks to the folks at Limelight Productions (Gabby, Brenda and James) for putting this together and the rad folks at the Border City Ale House for giving us a place to shine. On a side note, if you want to see some stellar photos taken of the event, visit Brojo Photography and click on Bordercity Ale House tab and click on the Limelight_Art_Project at the bottom of the page. Thank you El Paso and Las Cruces, Good Night!

The Art Project I

2010-08-02T21:36:00.007-06:00

Really looking forward to rocking out next to the super talented art styles of Justin and Daniel while vibing to the fresh beats from DJ Louie Loudini! Thanks to the awesome individuals from Limelight Productions, we are going to be the first artists to be featured in their series of live art shows called "The Art Project". Location is at the Border City Ale House August 4th 7pm-11pm. Artwork will be on exhibit and for sale during the show. It will be rad gig, so bring your friends, and tell your neighbors!

Dia de la Page

2010-07-25T21:03:00.004-06:00

Oh Bettie... Have a live art event that I have been preparing for and in the mist of what to do for display for the show and what I have been trying to get on board, came a tribute to Day of the Dead and Bettie. What feels so wrong became so right. I started with the intentions of showing the process but after I laid most of the reds, I became to involved with the piece that it was done before you knew it. The final piece measures 16x20 and was mostly done with black and red India Ink with the exceptions of a dab of acrylic paint.

Blast Her

2010-07-06T22:49:00.004-06:00

Busy bee. Been blessed with a bit of regular deadlines but unfortunately most that I cannot speak of, much like that Harry Potter fellow. One thing that I can mention though is come August I will be participating in a live art show! More on that as the details are finalized. As for the lady with the flying speakers, just something I whipped up to get warmed up.

Spider-Munny

2010-06-02T22:02:00.002-06:00

Well here is one project that I can speak of, a request for a Spider-man Munny. It all started with a request, some cans with compressed paint in them, splashes of paint and ink and the finally photo shoot to share. Yes he is that shiny.

As a quick update, there are a few workings that I cannot mention as of yet but will soon, Lonely in Black is getting done and I will be in attendance at a huge convention later this year. OOHHH!

Roller Grrl (The Process)

2010-05-16T21:25:00.005-06:00

This piece was obviously going to be made by me sooner or later. I have had the privilege recently of seeing the awesomeness of a roller derby thanks to the lovely ladies of the Sun City Roller Girls. Safe to say that I am forever a fan of the sport! This go around I made it a point to show a few steps my art takes from start to finish. Nothing to complex, just a few pencil strikes, a slab of ink to fine the lines and then come the crayon colors via Photoshop. Simple. On a final note, the piece will be on display at the What's Up Dig "A Quest for the Best of the Best" event May the 19th. Hope to see you all there!

Scary Godmother

2010-04-22T21:53:00.003-06:00

Something I just brewed together as a quick warm up on the sketchbook. Tried to capture the spunky attitude and warmness of Jill Thompson's Scary Godmother. Enjoy!

Ink Works

2010-04-17T21:26:00.003-06:00

Lonely in Black 4 in the works.... it's going to get done!

Big Radio

2010-04-16T23:27:00.002-06:00

Nothing much than just messing around with some tones. Most may remember this image from the Music artbook I did last year only now it has a splash of color. This image best viewed with hip hop on the blaster and an old Atari box opened and set up ready for dancing!

Rose

2010-04-05T22:53:00.002-06:00

Yes I have been ink washing very regularly lately. What can I say, its been working for the things that I have been producing lately. The image above is Rose from the Raised by Squirrels comic and was done for Bram Meehan.

Finished size: 9x12 on Bristol, Ink (really) and red watercolor for splash.

Lemons

2010-03-30T22:52:00.004-06:00

I needed a warm up today and the lemon lady above is in reference to a comment a friend made "when life gives you lemons..." Thought it would be be a nice way to start a sketch hot potato game with. In short, game on my friend, game on!

On a side note, I wanted to answer the question, will Lonely in Black have its 4th & mini series ending issue done this year. The answer is yes. Mike-E and I have master planned the issue and are only 17 pages away from wrapping it up. I will post some "in the works" pages soon.

Lady Ink Wash

2010-03-28T20:38:00.003-06:00

Had some extra time between flights and I had doodled the lovely lady above. Decided to ink wash to get that classic black and white tone from vintage films. For the version that got a dab of Photoshop "bedazzle", it can be viewed on the Facebook photos page under "The Ladies!" tab. More to come!

30 Minute Munny Ewok

2010-03-26T14:53:00.006-06:00

While attending the Photoshop World Conference, I ventured over to the expo area in-between tutorial breaks and the kind folks at istockphoto handed me a Munny. The challenge was to go to town with the Munny and when done they would take a photo and post it on their website. With a 30 min window and a few colors to use, an Ewok Munny was born.

Girls With Slingshots

2010-03-19T23:25:00.004-06:00

My take on Girls with Slingshots Jamie McJack. I highly recommend the web comic by Danielle Corsetto.

Medusa

2010-03-16T22:47:00.003-06:00

Catching up on sketch requests, above is Medusa. I figure if she was ugly then no man would tempt to look her way so I made her softer to the eyes. Pen and ink with a dab of Prisma.

Man From Mars

2010-03-11T21:21:00.003-07:00

Above is a project that I was asked to participate on at Staple! which was a unique and fun experience to be a part of. Brian Bird has a story mapped out and provided artist with a page with a caption and an empty box. The mission, if one chose to except it, was to render their interpretation of the caption. I was one of a few to be asked and I am excited to say that I was part of the The Man from Mars project.

On a side note, thank you Brian for giving us a rad keepsake of our day at Staple!

First of the Batch

2010-03-09T21:48:00.003-07:00

Here is the first commission I received at Staple! this past weekend minutes before the show opened. I don't recall that I've ever illustrated pets before but the photos that were supplied made it easy to capture their personalities. They were just a couple of guinea pigs keeping it real.

Staple! 2010

2010-03-07T23:00:00.003-07:00

As always Staple! always delivers. As a quick recap, we made some good friends, caught up with some old friends and had a blast meeting a bunch of new friends. As a creator this is definitely the show that charges me up and never disappoints. From the Meet and Greet to the After Party after the show, it is an energy of creativity in the air. Thanks Uncle Staple and everyone behind the scenes for making the show possible and thanks to everyone who stopped by and said hello!

Above is a commission piece from the show that was done for Crystal. Oddly enough I thought that I would be asked to do more Alices on this particular weekend but this was the only one.

Staple! Weekend!

2010-03-05T07:05:00.003-07:00

It is officially Staple! weekend and I am on route to begin the journey. Located at table 12A, I hope to see all of you there! For more info about this awesome show, go to: http://www.staple-austin.org/

New Buttons

2010-03-05T06:59:00.004-07:00

Just wanted to drop a line really quick and share the new buttons that came in today. They are taken straight from the art of Lonely in Black book and are ready for Staple!

Bird on a wire

2010-03-03T22:16:00.004-07:00

Above is a request from a young Maya whom is contemplating her first tat.
Ink & Watercolor on white.

Grim

2010-02-25T22:52:00.004-07:00

Quick doodle of Grim, Billy and Mandy.

Coraline

2010-02-24T23:30:00.006-07:00

Working off of memory after watching it over and over and over with the kids. Coraline, be careful what you wish for.

Harley Day

2010-02-23T22:31:00.004-07:00

Harley is now officially finished. Time to sit back and have a blast!

A Bride

2010-02-22T21:40:00.003-07:00

A quick rendering of Tim Burton's Corpse Bride. On to the next!

Free Sketches!

2010-02-21T22:16:00.003-07:00

You read right, FREE comic convention level quick sketch. Whats the catch? None. For the next two weeks am going to "get in shape" for the Staple! show and the way I am planning to do that is to crank out quick sketches from now till the Friday before the show. In this case March 5th. This year I thought I would open the what to draw to you all and in return give you your suggestion in form of the original illustration if selected. To participate all I am asking is to drop me a line either as a comment here or to the facebook fan page or my email address andyperezartist at gmail dot com and tell me what you would want me to illustrate. From the suggestions, I will select one to do for the day. If yours is selected then I will get in contact with you and get the image mailed to you as soon as possible. That simple. The illustration will be mostly, if not all, black & white and will be of a single subject matter only. Please keep in mind that I am not doing a sketch for every single suggestion and this is only open till Friday March 5th. There will only be a total of 12 free sketches that I will be doing. Can't wait to hear the ideas.

Just In!

2010-02-21T21:45:00.004-07:00

The art of Lonely in Black. And there it is. I've been spending some time in trying to put this together mostly to give people a chance to have an art book containing works from past and recent LIB. Much like the piecing of what to put in your band's Greatest Hits album, there was much debate to what should go into the art book. The end result, definitely some classics (Goth GRRL in devil outfit) and some new (Bikini Summer). The book will make it's world debut at Staple! in a couple of weeks. Thank you to everyone whom expressed their interest in this project enough to have pre-ordered it when it was nothing but a random idea someone tossed out.

Valentines Basket

2010-02-14T20:19:00.004-07:00

This season is filled with cards and baskets filled with joy and love. In spirit of the season I did just that. Above is the cover for a Valentines Card I was asked to do to visualize the deep emotions one had for another. The message: "I got my significant other a motorcycle helmet and I need a card to go with. Please Andy, pimp my card!" Intro music and a dab of holiday basket and there you have it. From what I hear it was well received.

To all the lovely headcases, Happy Valentines Day!

Is that a Zombie?

2010-02-08T21:18:00.005-07:00

In spirit of previewing things to come, above is my page contribution to the Staple! program book being made for the show. I have been mentioning a new project that I have been working on and there it is, in full camera phone glory. Wanted to keep it raw like them good old days and letter the thing by hand having the words permanently be part of the artwork. If I can find enough liquid paper and a dictionary, I might venture to do a whole book like that!

With about a month away from the show, I am getting ready with new things to share with all. Also looking forward to revisiting with fans, some of my peers from years past and partaking in the traditional/annual live art show after party. Staple! is a definite can't miss.

RollerGrrl

2010-02-01T22:02:00.004-07:00

In spirit of the rad time we had watching the Sun City Roller Girls on Saturday, I re-shed some light on the image above. Some may recognize it from the art book last year only now with a dash of color. Looking forward to more events!

The Legend of Zelda

2010-01-29T21:32:00.004-07:00

Taking a break from the usual stuff I do, I wanted to try and memorize the coolness that Zelda Rubinstein was. My wife and I being fans of things that go bump in the night were saddened to hear about Zelda's departure. Although her presence did bring some eeriness to Poltergeist, there was a sense of relief when she let us all know that "This house is clean."

Rest in Peace Zelda Rubinstein

Cheers!

2010-01-26T21:00:00.003-07:00

Summer is doing a happy dance on my behalf as I enjoy the completion of a book that has just gone to print. Can't say much on the matter other than it was fun, it has been sent to the printers and it's in full color. More details later. Oh and for all that pondered if there is a Facebook page, yes there is! The link is somewhere on this page. I am planning to add images there that have not been seen here and the blog will still continue to be my online sketchbook. Time to go, time to paint...

Summer's Body

2010-01-16T23:54:00.005-07:00

Not much to say other than it was bound to happen. For those of you not familiar with the Lonely in Black storyline, Summer (pictured above) is a cheerleader who is madly in love with a goth boy named Wesley. Although she would never hurt him, she is still very obsessed with him. Yes, the image was inspired by a recent DVD release. Image created with inks on marker on my sketchbook.

JTHM

2010-01-15T22:14:00.004-07:00

Another classic from the depths of the pile. This gem was done for a San Diego Souvenir Book back in 05' I believe and it was chosen as one of the pieces to celebrate the 10th year anniversary. How time flies. I remember the first time picking up the book and amazed that comic books existed without claws, capes or superpowers. It was the start of all books Indie. Thanks Dave.

The Closet

2010-01-12T22:17:00.004-07:00

There I was, shuffling things around looking for who knows what when I came across a classic. Oh the "Seven". Most people don't know but she was my first attempt at a creator own publishing book years ago. She was the remedy to the super lady books that were the draw at the time. The pencil piece was actually drawn years after the published book and was part of a contribution for a gallery that focused on comic book art and its role in art. It's rare to see pencils like this from me because most times I take off running and don't stop until I have inks or colors. Funny thing is I love to see pencils in its raw stage. Go figure. On an unrelated note, there was a bit of a blog make over.

Just Hanging out

2010-01-10T23:44:00.004-07:00

It's just Wesley, just hanging out. Been doing a lot of re-learning of sorts with the cast of Lonely in Black lately. Has been a while since I've last approached them and now that I may have a couple of projects in the works I was in need of a crash course. I might be posting a few more characters in the near future as I try and get of hold of them again. Image above, inks and grays.

Happy New Year!

2010-01-04T23:06:00.005-07:00

I want to start by wishing you all a very Happy New Year and giving you all who have been with me on my journey as an artist a big Thank You for your support! This year should be a busy one filled with conventions, live art shows and new material. All of which will unfold as the time comes.

The image above is a page from my sketchbook that I thought would be fitting to share on the blog as we start the New Year. Much like watching the Yellow Submarine for the first time, I am sure the year will be full of surprises, challenges and some animated fun! Stay Tuned...

Happy Holidays!

2009-12-25T20:28:00.003-07:00

Merry Christmas to all and I hope all your Holiday Wishes are fulfilled!

Wesley, Star of LIB

2009-12-23T12:41:00.005-07:00

Against most online polls, Wesley is the star of Lonely in Black. With much excitement, Mike-E and I have gotten on the track again to conclude the book/story we once started. I had to dust out my issues and re-introduce myself with the gentlemen and ladies of the LIB. But much like the winter coat in the closet, it was a little rough but everything fit perfectly.

Notes on the image: pen and ink, some washes and eventually computer glitter for some show!

Metal Matt!

2009-12-13T11:10:00.005-07:00

I thought I would give the Metal Mulisha Skull another shot. This go around I went for a more eerie/clean/hypnotic take to it. Want it to be clean enough for a Tattoo. From what I heard today it might just be. Enjoy Metal Matt!

Street Art Productions

2009-12-04T10:30:00.003-07:00

Oh what a night! I wanna start by thanking everyone at Street Art Productions and the Tree House for such a rad time last night. I was asked to share the stage with the very talented Joe Nunez and highlight some of the work we have done individually. I had a great time meeting new people and talking about the my work past, now and upcoming. As part of the Gallery show I was also asked to do some live art for the folks whom came down and I have to say the energy in the room was, in short, a rush! I will post images as soon as they become available, although I hear there are a bunch out there already.

About the piece above, it was a donation piece I did for Street Art Productions for the show. I wanted to capture the raw and street feel so I grabbed anything and everything available. Paint, ink, Spray paint, markers and pastels to name a few. Final Size 15"X20".

On a side note, I will be having a small window of time between shows and client work for commissions so if anyone is interested in having original art done, drop me a line at artedeandyperez at gmail dot com.

Visiting Wonderland, Again

2009-11-15T22:37:00.004-07:00

Hey is that Alice? Yes, yes it is. I can easily say that aside from Goth Grrl, Alice is the other most requested lady I get asked for as a commission. Don't mind it at all. I always found the characters to be easily inventive and cannot be re-imagined wrong. Just ask Tim Burton. The piece measures 15"X20" and I went with the Prisma Markers for the soft, colorful look. HHHMMM, maybe next go around Alice can appear as a red head...

The Bride's Birthday

2009-11-13T20:17:00.005-07:00

This was a commission piece that I was excited about doing. The task was to turn our friend into one of her favorite characters, The Bride of Frankenstein. So with a few dabs of ink, a bit of paint and white pencil highlights the bride was born. Doing commission work that is aimed at being a birthday present is pretty nerve wreaking but at the end when it is well received it makes the hours placed on the work worth while.

Happy Birthday Ashley!

Happy Halloween

2009-10-31T21:45:00.004-06:00

And to finish off the pair, here is Sally. I knew eventually the day would come when I would be asked to create a real live Sally. Wished that I would have taken the "in works photos" but the deadline was short. Fortunately the paint took well to the skin and Sally was off to join Jack on the night's wacky adventures.
To all, Have a Happy Halloween!

Pumpkin King

2009-10-26T21:56:00.005-06:00

Seemed only fitting that if I was going to carve a pumpkin this year, it would have to have Jack, the Pumpkin King! Knowing that I only had one shot at it I made sure to draft out a quick sketch and start going to town. Along the process I realized that the head may eventually become an obstacle so I changed the locations of the bats to help support the weight. With a few modifications and a bit of slicing and dicing it was complete. Jack, The Pumpkin King.

Metal!

2009-10-08T21:50:00.004-06:00

A special request by "Metal" Matt.

Elephant

2009-09-26T09:38:00.004-06:00

I almost forgot about the elephant... During the event last weekend I had a different request for the back of the sketchbook. My usual requests are anything from pin-up ladies to super heroes so to my surprise I was asked to do an elephant. Ask and you shall receive...

Chalk the Block II

2009-09-21T20:11:00.004-06:00

Thought I knew what I was in for, I was wrong. I can honestly say that this lovely red head gave us a run for our money and I would not have had it any other way. After hours of skin grinding on unforgiving concrete and muscles being used as never before, it was over and I wanted more. This is one red head that we will never forget.

Thank you VERY much Mike-E for the assistance, Daisy and Matt for handling the merch and all of you who stopped by to share your kind words on the piece!

Chalk the Block

2009-09-18T22:25:00.004-06:00

Just a quick note, I will be one of the artists participating in the Chalk the Block event located in downtown El Paso, Saturday the 19th from 10am to 6pm. I will be doing live art with pastels, along with other very talented artists. Mike-e will be joining me in this fantastic voyage and has the task of keeping me sane by assisting me with the creation. (see above for preliminary design)

For all interested parties, there will be a booth at the event that will be selling my merchandise. A VERY limited amount of Alice in Wonderland prints (see previous post) will be on hand. Keep an eye out for the ever lovely Daisy and tell her the blog says HI! PEACE!

Alice Part II

2009-09-17T20:17:00.003-06:00

Many, MANY days ago (in February to be exact) I posted the inks of a piece Dave Olivarez Jr. and I were working on. Our lovely little take on Alice in Wonderland. He did the cat and I did the girl, background and colors. The future use of this image is yet to be determined but I am glad to say that it will be available as a limited print.

Wonder Woman IV

2009-09-10T12:44:00.011-06:00

Here is one of the projects that I was working on that I am very privileged to be apart of. Every year an event called Wonder Woman Day is held to benefit Domestic Violence shelters and Crisis Line. Artist are invited to contribute pieces of work to raise money and this year I was accepted as a participant. For more information about the cause go to http://www.wonderwomanmuseum.com/WWDay4/WWDay4.html.

About the piece. It measures 15" X 20" and was made of ink and Prisma Markers. I roughed it out first and once I got the idea out, I went in with the colors. Like most artist would agree, you may have an initial idea of where you want to go but sometime along the way your brain and hand take control and changes are made. Hence the detail on the hair and the many stars on the background. One of the best parts about being an artist is the ability to let go...

Welcome to Earth

2009-09-01T22:02:00.004-06:00

Been over a month since my last entry and against my best efforts could not get to posting. I assure all that there are projects in the works, many that I cannot mention until they are locked on. All of which I will post and share when all is final.

I do want to take the time now to congratulate John, Gabby and Charlie on their new addition to their family. We are very happy for you and wish you all the best. The image is customized Wee Wobble that I painted to capture the wonderful time that the momma had during her pregnancy.

MJ RIP

2009-07-13T22:00:00.004-06:00

Where normally posting an image like this would be outdated I actually had trouble initially getting anything on paper because it really was a matter of what was appropriate. Anyone who knows me, knows that I am a HUGE zombie fan and in part Michael Jackson had a BIG part in that development. Yes of course I am talking about a little song called Thriller. Growing up I had listened and enjoyed many MJ tracks but it was seeing the Thriller video and oddly enough seeing the undead come alive was very life changing for me. I would like to say, like most, that Night of the Living Dead was my first look to the undead but the truth was that it was Thriller. I was saddened to hear about Michael Jackson because despite his personal life, he had a musical talent that will never be duplicated. As much as I wanted to pay homage to Michael as his Thriller counterpart, it just didn't feel right, it seems like the wrong time. Keep dancing Michael, and thank you for the legacy you left behind. Rest in Peace.

It's A Celebration!

2009-06-30T21:33:00.005-06:00

It's always a celebration when you have someone this special in your life.
Happy Birthday Babe!

Hit the Switch!

2009-06-18T22:12:00.004-06:00

So there I was, watching Igor for the hundredth time with my kids when I got the urge to slap him done on paper. There is something about the way the animation was done and the use of colors that really draws me in every single time. Although my piece does not have the dynamic color that makes the characters pop, there is something said about making something dramatic with the grays. Almost too fitting to have a goth tone to a subject that lends himself to it. And yes to all whom say that the eyes make him look wired, I just simply could not live with myself to give an Igor big Bambi eyes.

Marv

2009-05-27T22:45:00.004-06:00

Been super swamped with jobs here and there that it has been preventing regular updates to occur but worry not I have not abandoned the blog. Now on to the ugly mug that you see before you, Marv. Marv was actually shown to me for the first time by a brother of mine years back and it stuck with me so much that when I think of the original Sin City I automatically think of him. I had the great opportunity to hang with him recently and it just brought out the classic. Thanks Dan for showing me that not all comic heroes wear tights.

FOOD ONE

2009-05-04T23:25:00.003-06:00

As everyone knows, I am a long time fan of Jim Mahfood AKA Food One and all the work that he has done in both comics and in the fine arts world. I really can't say enough about Jim other than he is one of those unique artist that creates from within and when you set him loose with no restrictions you get some amazing pieces. My first encounter with his stuff started with the Clerks books and carried on to the Grrl Scouts and the recent Drum Kick Comix. As the years went by and I crafted my art, I never thought I would meet him yet alone be an exhibitor at the same Austin con two years in a row. In talking with him and seeing him go at it on a sketch book I can honestly say he is so down to earth and so unfazed by his success. Truly an artist by definition. Check out his work at 40 oz comics.

In tribute to the entertaining book Food One gave us with Kick Drum Comix, I present to you Echo Chambers: Bombastic Avenging Disco Space Goddess! (Echo Chambers is a copyright of Jim Mahfood). Hope I did her justice Jim.

Lego Family

2009-04-27T23:45:00.006-06:00

My son has now come to age were he is an official gamer. Oh how they grow up so fast! His current amusement comes in the form of Lego Star Wars which I have to admit that I too am hooked. Well I think it's safe to say that the game has become a family affair. In honor of this rebel alliance I decided to do a piece that ties two of my son's favorite things: his family and Lego Star Wars. Two versions, one which displays me having fun with markers and the other in digi color. It's always cool to see how much different it can be in different medias.

Splatter

2009-04-17T22:39:00.004-06:00

What started out a very safe and normal day of doodling, ended with a splatter. Actually a series of splatters. I was there really not finding my place on the sketchbook and as normal it was a very routine, something is coming out of the pencil and away it goes. Once I thought I was done I new I needed something, something outside the norm. So with the trusty brush on hand and a few splashes, I had an end result that you see. Some may say that I made it dirty, what did I do. Others may say it is BAM! there. All in all it was something I felt I needed to do, as some artist may say "Expression". So for today I say try something new.

You Little Monster

2009-04-14T23:49:00.004-06:00

To my surprise recently, it was brought to my attention by my daughter, that she had yet to read or be read Where the Wild Things Are which I thought was a mandatory read for young children in school. Or at least I think it should be. Also finding out that it is a book that had caught her attention because it is on a bookshelf in her class but has not been read to her just added the fuel for me to present her with the classic. I remember reading the book over and over as a child and thinking how cool it would be not only to be around monsters but to be their king. Silly I know. Thanks to my little girl, I was able to relive a fun time from my past and now the book is on her list of favorites. Needless to say the piece you see is the end result. I hear there is a movie in the works...

Zombie Attack!

2009-04-04T23:08:00.004-06:00

Let me start off by saying that the best way to start a conversation is to throw the word Zombie out there. Confused? Try it and you will see how it easily turns any quiet silence into a lasting impression. In my case it was easy because I dig Zombies and it just so happens that the gentlemen whom I started the conversation was decked out in zombie gear. I met Martin Whitmore at the Staple! show last March and although he had my attention for looking like the undead, I was pleasantly surprised to know that he was an exhibitor that was plugging a story that combines the best of both worlds, zombies and strippers. Haven't you ever wondered how strippers would survive a zombie attack? Well think no longer because Martin has the answer on his web comic Tasty Flesh. Please be warned that there are mature tones to the comic and it is not for younger or easily offended audiences. Thanks Martin for giving me a zombie break at the show!

LIB Podcast

2009-04-02T22:08:00.004-06:00

Yes I added an older piece, yes it is one of Lonely in Black and yes I am ready to answer why... Because it is time. Time to bring the past in to the present once again. In our last trip to Austin we had a large amount of "Will there be more LIB stories?" The answer yes. I don't think Mike-e and I can ever turn our backs on the Wesley and the cast. We have been absent but never did we abandon our book or its contents. Which leads us to the Podcast.

We were interviewed by the ever cool League of Extremely Ordinary Gentlemen at Spill.com earlier this month and we were asked about LIB. It was definitely a charge to bring our book back to the spotlight. The interview starts about 20 minutes in but I do recommend listening to all the interviews within the podcast. The League is definitely an entertaining bunch to listen to. Thanks guys for letting us be part of your podcast and as for Lonely in Black keep an eye out, there has been some pages spotted out there. Oh and about the drawing, it was created for a super cool fan who really dug the book.