Beginning with a layout I've designed in photoshop, I use my lightbox to get a pencil outline.
I then use the lightbox again to draw my outline in marker.
Once I have a solid outline to work with, I fill in the necessary shapes.
After the drawing is complete I take it into the computer and make the shapes vector. This is the step I pull out all of the corners to make them rounded to produce a worn/stamp look.
Here are some more trial t-shirt designs with the Son of Scorpio graphics. I like to try out a lot of designs, to get reactions, before I go to print with any of them. I want to give this project space to become something of it's own.
I begin by making an outline of the image with a light box and a sharpie marker. I move slow to make sure the lines are clean and consistent. Also it's important to connect the intersecting lines at this stage so when I transfer it to vector I'm able to pull my corners easier.
Next, I block in parts of the image in solid black to compose a balanced image.
Then, I add the remaining detail before it is made into vector shapes.
I've been working to define an illustration style based on a process. I have settled, for now, after a lot of experimenting. I've tried just pencil and paper, paint, ink and collage to define a style. I found a combination of paper and ink plus the computer is a fun place to work because it's limitless. I can start out with a blank page and draw the image. Then, take it to the computer and manipulate it further as vector shapes. I like the vintage look of something having aged and been printed a long time ago when inks bled to make curved edges, nothing is exact. I am inspired and learned a lot from the work of Simon Walker, LAND and Mike Giant. Son of Scorpio is the name of my new set of drawings.
For the past few years I've been asked to contribute to Creative Action Network's campaigns. They are a talented group of people who show and sell my work across the country. The latest campaign I made a design for is called "Vote our Planet". I took the opportunity to practice telling a story in one image. I had fun making these cartoon like illustrations. Here's my contribution.
The other morning I woke to find a direct message on my Instagram account from a designer I really respect in New York City. It was Rafael from Alfalfa Studio. He asked me to contribute a design to his activism effort #orlandoislove. I chose to illustrate a portrait of Darryl "DJ" Roman Burt II, who lost his life June 12, 2016. It's sickening to think about the night that unfolded in Orlando. Spread love, not fear and hate. Here's my small contribution.