Games Expo - review.

My GamesExpo Stand.

I wanted to thank everyone who stopped by my stand at the weekend and said 'hi', it was great to meet you all. I always find it exciting and interesting to talk to the gamers for whom my art is intended. Finding out what sparks their particular interest, combined with their enthusiasm, is great.

I understand the show went smoothly for the organisers (whom I'd like to thank for me inviting once again), and was a success for the traders I spoke to as well. The event was held in Birmingham at the Clarendon Suite; a building well suited as it had a mix of larger halls, and smaller conference rooms to accomodate traders and games alike. However it could appear slightly maze-like at first, as I think this photo looking into the main atrium and beyond demonstrates.

The Maze

The labyrinthine layout was made more intriguing when simple observation revealed it to be a masonic lodge.

Past Masters

Aprons, geometry instruments, medallions and the like always add a certain extra frisson to proceedings. As does a race of violent aliens...

The Daleks

...even if their intentions are solely to collect for charity!

Thanks again to everyone. I hope you get all your paintings framed and on your walls soon :)

UK GamesExpo

I will be attending the UK Games Expo this coming weekend of the 5th & 6th June. I have been several years previously. It is a very vibrant, enjoyable, convention with a good mix of games, and as family orientated as possible.

Once again the organisers have very kindly invited me to exhibit. I will have a table space and display boards where I will be showing as much of my artwork as physically possible. This will consist of original artwork for all the product ranges I work on.

When selecting work to bring I try to accomodate as broad a range as possible. Both for the interest of any viewers, but also to allow for varying depth of pockets.

I hope to see you there.

Ninja Mountain Podcast; Episode # 67

The latest Ninja Mountain podcast episode is now available to listen to here.

Sadly it is the last episode Jon Hodgson will be participating in and editing, as he bows out of the time consuming duties due to work commitments.

Jon was a primary force in getting the show off the ground, and has played many a key role in keeping the podcast going. Thanks Jon.

Corinthian Barbute

I recently took receipt of a new custom made helmet; a Corinthian Barbute with (re)moveable visor. It is the finest piece in my, slowly, expanding collection. The design is based upon medieval examples, that clearly took their inspiration from the classical world.

The armourer, Milan Marek, has done an excellent job, as I expected from someone with the reputation of being one of the leading European armourers. It is not only  a perfect fit but it also has some amazingly graceful lines to it. Seeing a piece like this in the flesh is inspirational for my work. Like holding real chainmail it is an invaluable reference resource.

The articulation on the visor is very smooth, helped by the use of a small disc of leather as a 'washer'. It can also be completely removed. So I guess you get two helmets in one.

I am now looking forward to using it 'in action' at the next roleplaying event. Incidentally it also has a surprisingly good field of vsion through the visor, as the ocular slit is quite close to the eyes.

Milan's work can be found here

I would also recommend browsing the site for armour reference. There is  a great range shown, and it is all well photographed and presented.

Ninja Mountain Podcast; Episode # 66

The latest episode of the Ninja Mountain podcast is online, and available to listen to here

I join Jon, Andy and Socar for a freeflowing conversation as we work away at our art.

Couatl Cloud Palace

Couatl Cloud Palace

D&D Chapter Start; The Plane Above.

Approx 21" x 19". Acrylics. Original art for sale: £1200.

©Wizards of the Coast

It has been a busy few weeks, and the things I want to share are beginning to pile-up. Here's a quick catch up with the companion piece to The Hundred Handed One.

Layout/Value Sketch

Line Sketch

Ninja Mountain Podcast; Episode # 63

I join this week's, large, crowd for ongoing chat about being a freelance illustrator.

Listen here.