Hi there, hope you are all having a great Christmas so far. Darwyn received this great gift from Jimmy Palmiotti and wanted to share.
Enjoy,
Marsha
Friday, December 25, 2009
Merry Christmas Everyone
Hi there, hope you are all having a great Christmas so far. Darwyn received this great gift from Jimmy Palmiotti and wanted to share.
Enjoy,
Marsha
Saturday, December 12, 2009
the mystery of the missing #6
Maybe this issue was taken to the island with Patrick McGoohan - they were both #6. The sweet cover to Ambush Bug #6 was never used except in promotional bits on the DC website and on the cover of what became Ambush Bug #7 (of 6) as seen here:
You can see Darwyn's cover on the comics at the Bug's feet.
So what happoened to #6? It's a mystery wrapped in an enigma eaten by the Riddler. The theme of issue #7 is "what happened to #6" and it doesn't really answer that. According to a review on Comic Book Resources, "...worst of all, it's not even funny."
Gary over at Crisis on Earth-Prime thinks that the cover to #6 may be getting used on an upcoming DC comic whose cover is currently a mystery. Check it out here.
More speculation and reviews can be found at the DC message boards, at Bleeding Cool, and Comixtreme's review ends with "a nagging feeling that it wasn’t quite worth the wait."
The missing issue #6 may simply have "popped" out of our plane of existence, much the same way Ambush Bug himself has a tendency to do. One day it may "pop" back or not. We'll just have to wait and see. In the meantime, we thought it was a shame not to see a good copy of the cover by Darwyn. It makes me laugh everytime I see it.
Here you go:
and coming in a couple of days, a small selection of early Darwyn work from his days at Music Express magazine in the 1980s. I found a stack of them at Taz Records. Darwyn was the art director there for a few years and he did a number of spot illustrations. Go check out your local used music store to see if you can find some of these gems.
Hope you are all happy and warm this cold December day! Blog at you later!
You can see Darwyn's cover on the comics at the Bug's feet.
So what happoened to #6? It's a mystery wrapped in an enigma eaten by the Riddler. The theme of issue #7 is "what happened to #6" and it doesn't really answer that. According to a review on Comic Book Resources, "...worst of all, it's not even funny."
Gary over at Crisis on Earth-Prime thinks that the cover to #6 may be getting used on an upcoming DC comic whose cover is currently a mystery. Check it out here.
More speculation and reviews can be found at the DC message boards, at Bleeding Cool, and Comixtreme's review ends with "a nagging feeling that it wasn’t quite worth the wait."
The missing issue #6 may simply have "popped" out of our plane of existence, much the same way Ambush Bug himself has a tendency to do. One day it may "pop" back or not. We'll just have to wait and see. In the meantime, we thought it was a shame not to see a good copy of the cover by Darwyn. It makes me laugh everytime I see it.
Here you go:
and coming in a couple of days, a small selection of early Darwyn work from his days at Music Express magazine in the 1980s. I found a stack of them at Taz Records. Darwyn was the art director there for a few years and he did a number of spot illustrations. Go check out your local used music store to see if you can find some of these gems.
Hope you are all happy and warm this cold December day! Blog at you later!
Friday, November 27, 2009
JONAH HEX FIFTY: DAVE STEWART AND PAST MASTERS
Hi folks. Next week the 50th issue of Hex hits the stands and while I rarely jump on the net to promote a single issue comic, this is a very special case and it occurred to me that the background on this book may be of interest.
When Jimmy and Justin tapped me for this one, I got somewhat excited about the possibilities artistically. Working with a full script from those two frees me up to stretch some artistic muscles I mightn't otherwise. My previous outing on Hex was quite rewarding, but very much within the type of work I'm generally known for; brushwork with an economy of line and dense blacks. I really wanted to switch it up for this one, and see if I could come up with something that looked somewhat more fitting technique-wise.
It was quite a challenge. Working with line only and leaving large areas I'd normally fill with black open for colour was a lot of fun for me. I had to forgo all my usual approaches and come up with solutions that worked for this approach, from the panel design on up.
It's always important to me to cite the influences that shape and inform my work. The technique applied to the inks on Hex is an amalgam of several great adventure artists filtered through the hand of a guy many are convinced normally inks with a corncob.
Moebius, John Severin, Reed Crandall, Jack Davis and Walt Simonson all had immense effects on me as a young artist and you'll see that in the linework on Hex.
A lot of the courage needed to break away from your comfort zone can come from your collaborators. J and J were totally supportive, and I knew in the back of my mind that anything I fell short on would be propped up by my art partner, Dave Stewart.
When you work with a talent like Dave, you're not afraid to try something new. His ability to grasp an approach and then take it somewhere you haven't been is the most exciting part of doing a book like this. I wasn't afraid to let broad expanses of western plain anchor a compostion because I knew Dave was going to be there.
Let me put it this way; As I paged through the colour for the first time, I was astonished at the range of palettes created. The story is an epic of sorts, and takes place over a full year with every type of terrain, climate, and time of day imaginable. Each and every scene felt unique and a moment of it's own. As I reached the last few pages of the issue something dawned on me. I flipped back through for confirmation and was stunned to realize that somehow Dave had coloured every daytime sky something other than blue.
Every color but blue. And the genius is I almost didn't notice. None of that, "Look how clever I am" stuff, but something so unique and yet oddly natural that it doesn't call attention to itself. Thanks, Dave. You are the greatest.
And that's my end of Hex 50. As for the story, Justin and Jimmy had thirty-eight pages to develop one of Hex's most human and heartless adventures. There are things these sick men make me draw...lol. So all y'all should give old Hex a spin this Wednesday if you haven't already.
Best,
Darwyn
When Jimmy and Justin tapped me for this one, I got somewhat excited about the possibilities artistically. Working with a full script from those two frees me up to stretch some artistic muscles I mightn't otherwise. My previous outing on Hex was quite rewarding, but very much within the type of work I'm generally known for; brushwork with an economy of line and dense blacks. I really wanted to switch it up for this one, and see if I could come up with something that looked somewhat more fitting technique-wise.
It was quite a challenge. Working with line only and leaving large areas I'd normally fill with black open for colour was a lot of fun for me. I had to forgo all my usual approaches and come up with solutions that worked for this approach, from the panel design on up.
It's always important to me to cite the influences that shape and inform my work. The technique applied to the inks on Hex is an amalgam of several great adventure artists filtered through the hand of a guy many are convinced normally inks with a corncob.
Moebius, John Severin, Reed Crandall, Jack Davis and Walt Simonson all had immense effects on me as a young artist and you'll see that in the linework on Hex.
A lot of the courage needed to break away from your comfort zone can come from your collaborators. J and J were totally supportive, and I knew in the back of my mind that anything I fell short on would be propped up by my art partner, Dave Stewart.
When you work with a talent like Dave, you're not afraid to try something new. His ability to grasp an approach and then take it somewhere you haven't been is the most exciting part of doing a book like this. I wasn't afraid to let broad expanses of western plain anchor a compostion because I knew Dave was going to be there.
Let me put it this way; As I paged through the colour for the first time, I was astonished at the range of palettes created. The story is an epic of sorts, and takes place over a full year with every type of terrain, climate, and time of day imaginable. Each and every scene felt unique and a moment of it's own. As I reached the last few pages of the issue something dawned on me. I flipped back through for confirmation and was stunned to realize that somehow Dave had coloured every daytime sky something other than blue.
Every color but blue. And the genius is I almost didn't notice. None of that, "Look how clever I am" stuff, but something so unique and yet oddly natural that it doesn't call attention to itself. Thanks, Dave. You are the greatest.
And that's my end of Hex 50. As for the story, Justin and Jimmy had thirty-eight pages to develop one of Hex's most human and heartless adventures. There are things these sick men make me draw...lol. So all y'all should give old Hex a spin this Wednesday if you haven't already.
Best,
Darwyn
Friday, November 20, 2009
Invincible!
Darwyn just sent along this image for an upcoming one-shot "Invincible returns!"
Invincible is a terrific action-adventure series that's worth checking out.
The info on the issue goes like this: "INVINCIBLE RETURNS #1 by ROBERT KIRKMAN, RYAN OTTLEY, CORY WALKER & FCO PLASCENCIA; cover illustrations by DAVID FINCH, DARWYN COOKE, ERIK LARSEN & RYAN OTTLEY
Scheduled for release on Wednesday, February 17. Reserve your copy now at your friendly, neighbourhood comic book store.
"AT LONG LAST, INVINCIBLE RETURNS TO HIS ORIGINAL COSTUME!
After the shocking events of the Invincible War and the cataclysmic battle with Conquest, Invincible is ready to turn the page to a bold new era: just in time for THE VILTRUMITE WAR, starting in next month’s INVINCIBLE #71! This special self-contained issue will bring readers new and old up to speed on everyone’s favorite superhero comic. If you’ve never read INVINCIBLE, now is the time to dive in! And if you’ve been reading since the beginning: You know it’s all been leading up to this moment! Either way, hold onto your hats!"
I was glad to see on Comic Book Resources that this is a one-shot and not a series restart. Kind of nice to see more comic book series getting close to triple digits. Cory Walker and Robert Kirkman's five issue MAX mini-series, the Destroyer, was just released in hardcover. It's a fun book, too.
and remember that Jonah Hex #50 comes out on Dec. 2nd. Makes a great stocking stuffer!
Friday, November 13, 2009
Jonah Hex sneak peek
Jimmy Palmiotti posted a couple of Darwyn's pages on his blog. Go see them now! Very sweet stuff. These are from Jonah Hex #50 which should be out for sale on December 2nd.
As you might expect, they look pretty damn cool.
and did you know the 16th of November is Darwyn's birthday? I may get a beating for this, but I think he might like getting some "happy birthdays" from folks.
Wednesday, November 4, 2009
Workshopped!
I received this email from Diana Tamblyn:
"Hi Cal,
For the Darwyn blog, thought you might be interested in this piece I did up for Trouble With Comics, on Darwyn's recent workshop in Toronto:
http://www.comicbookgalaxy.com/troublewithcomics/2009/11/darwyn-cooke-storytelling-workshop.html
Hope you are well and that the Halloween fairies treated you well!
Best,
Diana"
I am indeed, Diana! Thanks for sending the link along! And Hallowe'en was awesome in Halifax. Darwyn was busy finishing up his Jonah Hex pages for the big issue #50 so no Winnie the Pooh, but you can see the other halloweenies at our party here.
You folks can see some of Diana's work on her blog.
"Hi Cal,
For the Darwyn blog, thought you might be interested in this piece I did up for Trouble With Comics, on Darwyn's recent workshop in Toronto:
http://www.comicbookgalaxy.com/troublewithcomics/2009/11/darwyn-cooke-storytelling-workshop.html
Hope you are well and that the Halloween fairies treated you well!
Best,
Diana"
I am indeed, Diana! Thanks for sending the link along! And Hallowe'en was awesome in Halifax. Darwyn was busy finishing up his Jonah Hex pages for the big issue #50 so no Winnie the Pooh, but you can see the other halloweenies at our party here.
You folks can see some of Diana's work on her blog.
Monday, November 2, 2009
Hunter makes the list
Publisher's Weekly posted their top books of the year and The Hunter is on it. Check out the rest of the list here. There are some great books that would make fine gifts for your friends, enemies, or frenemies.
and at Comic Book Resources, the year of good comic moments column spotlights New Frontier.
and on the Star Clipper's blog, there's a spotlight on noir books including The Hunter among other good stuff.
and at Comic Book Resources, the year of good comic moments column spotlights New Frontier.
and on the Star Clipper's blog, there's a spotlight on noir books including The Hunter among other good stuff.
Tuesday, October 27, 2009
Gladstone Weekend
Last weekend Darwyn had an art show at the beautiful Gladstone Hotel in Toronto. It was a 2 day thing, with the first night being a show and reception, the 2nd day being a workshop and then an evening reading with discussion. We had a great time!
The events were hosted by Art Originals http://www.artoriginals.ca/. Walter Dickinson and Sean Menard working in conjunction with the Toronto Cartoonists Workshop put together a fantastic event, the first in a series hopefully! Keep your eye out because the location and the presentation were top-notch. They treated us like superstars so we were both in great spirits all weekend. Everyone who attended had a nice time and enjoyed seeing Darwyn and some of the latest works. There is a nice set of photos from Friday evening http://www.comicbookdaily.com/wp/daily_news/noir-and-beyond-the-darwyn-cooke-artshow/ here (thanks for the report guys).
We saw a ton of old friends including the one and only J. Bone, Darwyn’s longtime art partner and friend. It was also our friend Chris Stone’s birthday, and lucky for us the festivities were being held in the Gladstone Karaoke bar. There is a great set of photos here http://kaylamariehillier.com/2009/10/25/there-aint-no-party-like-a-chris-stone-party/
Saturday morning Darwyn met with 15 people who had signed up for a workshop, including one of my online favs Diana Tambyln http://www.dianatamblyn.com/ . Everyone seemed happy so I assume they enjoyed themselves. Saturday evening Mark Askwith hosted a reading from The Hunter – Darwyn read the first chapter while the pages from the graphic adaptation were projected behind him. After the reading Mark hosted a discussion about the adaptation of The Hunter, it was informative and interesting. Afterwards we mingled with the crowd and signed some books, then had a few beers with our friends and off to bed.
Overall , the weekend was a huge hit – we had a great time, saw a ton of friends and had a good turn out at the show. All of the thanks here go to Walter and Sean, their professionalism and just plain awesomeness made our weekend. This was the first in their planned art originals series, so look forward to some really amazing gallery and workshop experiences from them. Special thanks as well to Jason who helped hang everything, Liana K & Steve, Mark Askwith, Sean Wainsteim and Mo :)
Tuesday, October 13, 2009
Hi folks.
I just wanted to jump on today and make mention of the great weekend we have coming up in Toronto kicking off the Art Originals series. Sean Menard and Walter Dickinson have worked with the Toronto Cartoonist's Workshop to create a series of weekends featuring specific artists and their work.
This is a fantastic concept for comics art in the Toronto community and I hope everyone in the Toronto area can come out support Sean and Walter's amazing efforts. Be sure to come say Hi to Marsha and I.
The event is taking place at the ultra swanky Gladstone hotel, with it's several bars and gallery space. All the times and dates can be found at www.artoriginals.ca
See you there,
Darwyn
Wednesday, October 7, 2009
art show in Toronto
if you are near the Toronto area, you might want to check this out:
Art Originals presents Noir and Beyond: The Darwyn Cooke Retrospective
Friday, October 16, 2009 at the Gladstone Hotel
Noir and Beyond: The Darwyn Cooke Exhibition, 7 - 11 pm: Featuring selected works from the last decade, the Darwyn Cooke retrospective will include an entire chapter from Parker: The Hunter, new and unpublished material as well as a number of surprises!
Free admission – this event is open to the general public.
Saturday, October 17, 2009 at the Gladstone Hotel
Workshop with Darwyn Cooke, 10 - 3 pm: This workshop with master cartoonist Darwyn Cooke will provide patrons with valuable insights into his creative process. The lecture, question period and portfolio review sections allow for a unique opportunity to get inside the head of one of our most renowned industry stalwarts.
Spaces for this workshop are limited to 15 spots. Each space is $105 and fees are non-refundable. There is sure to be a waiting list for this event, so don’t delay. Sign up today!
This workshop is presented in association with the Toronto Cartoonists Workshop. For a list of their ongoing courses offered in the downtown Toronto area please visit www.cartoonistsworkshop.com. For further information and to arrange payment, send an email to info@cartoonistsworkshop.com
$105/person. Limited seating (15 persons).
An Evening with Darwyn Cooke, 7 - 10 pm: Hosted by Mark Askwith of SPACE, this intimate and interactive session will include a reading by Cooke from the original text of Stark’s The Hunter with corresponding images from the graphic novel projected as backdrop. Cooke will be available immediately afterwards to sign copies of his work.
$10/person. Limited seating (75 persons).
check the website for more info!
Art Originals presents Noir and Beyond: The Darwyn Cooke Retrospective
Friday, October 16, 2009 at the Gladstone Hotel
Noir and Beyond: The Darwyn Cooke Exhibition, 7 - 11 pm: Featuring selected works from the last decade, the Darwyn Cooke retrospective will include an entire chapter from Parker: The Hunter, new and unpublished material as well as a number of surprises!
Free admission – this event is open to the general public.
Saturday, October 17, 2009 at the Gladstone Hotel
Workshop with Darwyn Cooke, 10 - 3 pm: This workshop with master cartoonist Darwyn Cooke will provide patrons with valuable insights into his creative process. The lecture, question period and portfolio review sections allow for a unique opportunity to get inside the head of one of our most renowned industry stalwarts.
Spaces for this workshop are limited to 15 spots. Each space is $105 and fees are non-refundable. There is sure to be a waiting list for this event, so don’t delay. Sign up today!
This workshop is presented in association with the Toronto Cartoonists Workshop. For a list of their ongoing courses offered in the downtown Toronto area please visit www.cartoonistsworkshop.com. For further information and to arrange payment, send an email to info@cartoonistsworkshop.com
$105/person. Limited seating (15 persons).
An Evening with Darwyn Cooke, 7 - 10 pm: Hosted by Mark Askwith of SPACE, this intimate and interactive session will include a reading by Cooke from the original text of Stark’s The Hunter with corresponding images from the graphic novel projected as backdrop. Cooke will be available immediately afterwards to sign copies of his work.
$10/person. Limited seating (75 persons).
check the website for more info!
Saturday, September 26, 2009
if you're on the east coast of Canada....
drop by the Word on the Street tomorrow. It's a cross-canada literacy fair that takes place on the last Sunday in September.
For info, check their website. Darwyn will be doing a reading from the Richard Stark novel, The Hunter, while images from his adaptation are shown. This will take place on the main stage around 3PM or so.
(yes, I know; very short notice...forgive me, I've been pretty busy.)
Darwyn was kind enough to drop by my bookshop on Friday for an hour-long signing.
as they say in small-town newspapers, "a good time was had by all." The new printing of Parker: The Hunter should be shipping to retail outlets this or next week so for those of you in need of a great fall solstice/All Hallows Eve/Xmas gift idea, give Parker this year!
(wrapping paper image found here thanks to Baron von Googleschmidt
and my pal, Mike Holmes
was helping out that day. (He's inside the blue plaid shirt seen on the right in the first photo.) His new book, This American Drive is debuting at the Word on the Street tomorrow. Check it out there or ask your friendly neighbourhood bookstore to get you a copy!
For info, check their website. Darwyn will be doing a reading from the Richard Stark novel, The Hunter, while images from his adaptation are shown. This will take place on the main stage around 3PM or so.
(yes, I know; very short notice...forgive me, I've been pretty busy.)
Darwyn was kind enough to drop by my bookshop on Friday for an hour-long signing.
as they say in small-town newspapers, "a good time was had by all." The new printing of Parker: The Hunter should be shipping to retail outlets this or next week so for those of you in need of a great fall solstice/All Hallows Eve/Xmas gift idea, give Parker this year!
(wrapping paper image found here thanks to Baron von Googleschmidt
and my pal, Mike Holmes
was helping out that day. (He's inside the blue plaid shirt seen on the right in the first photo.) His new book, This American Drive is debuting at the Word on the Street tomorrow. Check it out there or ask your friendly neighbourhood bookstore to get you a copy!
Saturday, September 19, 2009
this and that and Darwyn the Pooh
Hiya, folks,
it was "Darwyn Cooke Week" at 4thletter.net and there's a plethora of reviews here with a nice selection of Darwyn's pages, here's their look at Batman: Ego and other tails, the Spirit, and the Hunter.
The November solicitations feature an oversized Green Lantern hardcover collecting the Rebirth mini-series as well as the Secret Files issue that contained a terrific story by Geoff Johns and Darwyn. More info here.
Darwyn's in Montreal this weekend for the comic convention taking place today and tomorrow. Their website is here. Mike Allred will also be there!
"Comics should be good" looks back at the fun Wolverine / Doop mini-series here.
I've been mailing and packing the Parker prizes for the past couple of weeks. Almost all have been mailed out and I've already starting to hear from folks who have received their prize for drawing Parker.
and finally in news....
yes, that was Darwyn at Dragon Con a couple of weeks ago walking around in his Winnie the Pooh costume.
He's pictured here with artist Mark Brooks, I believe.
a couple more photos are here.
And if you're in the Halifax area, Darwyn will be signing books at Strange Adventures on Friday, September 25th from 5-6pm.
That's all I have for now! Blog at you soon.
it was "Darwyn Cooke Week" at 4thletter.net and there's a plethora of reviews here with a nice selection of Darwyn's pages, here's their look at Batman: Ego and other tails, the Spirit, and the Hunter.
The November solicitations feature an oversized Green Lantern hardcover collecting the Rebirth mini-series as well as the Secret Files issue that contained a terrific story by Geoff Johns and Darwyn. More info here.
Darwyn's in Montreal this weekend for the comic convention taking place today and tomorrow. Their website is here. Mike Allred will also be there!
"Comics should be good" looks back at the fun Wolverine / Doop mini-series here.
I've been mailing and packing the Parker prizes for the past couple of weeks. Almost all have been mailed out and I've already starting to hear from folks who have received their prize for drawing Parker.
and finally in news....
yes, that was Darwyn at Dragon Con a couple of weeks ago walking around in his Winnie the Pooh costume.
He's pictured here with artist Mark Brooks, I believe.
a couple more photos are here.
And if you're in the Halifax area, Darwyn will be signing books at Strange Adventures on Friday, September 25th from 5-6pm.
That's all I have for now! Blog at you soon.
Thursday, September 3, 2009
nananananananana....bat-blog!
For those of you with a love for all things Bat, you should check out the Bat-Blog. Loads of info on Bat-stuff from all over the place. There's also a nifty drawing by Darwyn .....
Tuesday, September 1, 2009
Secret Origin and stuff
The column, aptly named "Comics should be good!, represents Darwyn's "secret origin" story from his issue of "solo" here.
Jason Arnold sent along this piece to help promote the Parker books....
Thanks, Jason! He adds, "My goal is to get a few 'mainstream' comic fans that normally wouldn't check out something like Parker, to at least pick it up and have a flip through it." Jason is also involved in the Where Monster Dwell radio show that can be heard via the interwebs here.
Speaking of radio, well, audio at least....if you didn't get to FanExpo in Toronto last weekend you can listen in on the Darwyn Cooke spotlight thanks to the internet archive. Check it out here or listen right now (if this embedding works)...
well, hopefully that works....
I have a great big box full of signed Parker books and art books for the those who entered the Draw Parker contest and will be mailing them out over the next couple of weeks. They will be trackable and I will send the respective folks the info as soon as they hit the post. Thanks again for all the great illustrations that were submitted. If you haven't seen them all, take a few minutes and go through the June and July archives.....I'll wait......pretty sweet, eh?
and finally in news...Eclipse magazine gave a thumbs up to Darwyn's interpretation of The Hunter here.
see you all later!
-calum
Jason Arnold sent along this piece to help promote the Parker books....
Thanks, Jason! He adds, "My goal is to get a few 'mainstream' comic fans that normally wouldn't check out something like Parker, to at least pick it up and have a flip through it." Jason is also involved in the Where Monster Dwell radio show that can be heard via the interwebs here.
Speaking of radio, well, audio at least....if you didn't get to FanExpo in Toronto last weekend you can listen in on the Darwyn Cooke spotlight thanks to the internet archive. Check it out here or listen right now (if this embedding works)...
well, hopefully that works....
I have a great big box full of signed Parker books and art books for the those who entered the Draw Parker contest and will be mailing them out over the next couple of weeks. They will be trackable and I will send the respective folks the info as soon as they hit the post. Thanks again for all the great illustrations that were submitted. If you haven't seen them all, take a few minutes and go through the June and July archives.....I'll wait......pretty sweet, eh?
and finally in news...Eclipse magazine gave a thumbs up to Darwyn's interpretation of The Hunter here.
see you all later!
-calum
Friday, August 21, 2009
nothing much....just chillin'
Good morning,
nothing really new to report. Just wanted to mention that Darwyn will be at the Mini Megacon in Orlando this weekend and the following weekend, he'll be at the FanExpo in Toronto. I haven't gotten any info as to his specific schedule yet so check with the respective convention sites or newsletters.
For those of you non-artists (like me!) out there, I'll be doing a giveaway for some copies of the Parker artbook starting in September. Details will be announced first week of September. I think it will be a postcard deal where you get an entry by mailing in a postcard with a picture of your city or town on it. Stay tuned!
nothing really new to report. Just wanted to mention that Darwyn will be at the Mini Megacon in Orlando this weekend and the following weekend, he'll be at the FanExpo in Toronto. I haven't gotten any info as to his specific schedule yet so check with the respective convention sites or newsletters.
For those of you non-artists (like me!) out there, I'll be doing a giveaway for some copies of the Parker artbook starting in September. Details will be announced first week of September. I think it will be a postcard deal where you get an entry by mailing in a postcard with a picture of your city or town on it. Stay tuned!
Wednesday, August 19, 2009
Monday, August 17, 2009
Word from the man
So where to begin? I suppose I'll start with the thank yous. As you folks may or may not know, The Hunter has been successful beyond our expectations and we're already into a second printing. Thank you to all the readers out there-you're the ones who've shown us that the Parker series is something viable and with three more books to go, it's full stream ahead.
The big thanks today go to Calum and all the kids at Strange Adventures. The blog and things like this contest take a lot of time to manage, and they rule my world. Saludos!
On to the Fabulous Draw Parker Contest. Wow. When Cal and I floated this idea, we thought there might be half a dozen entries. Like the response to the book, the contest took off in ways we couldn't have imagined. 46 entries, is it?
I'm sincerely floored by the effort and talent on display here, and can't thank you folks enough for the almost daily treat of seeing a new entry on the blog.
When I saw all the work on display, I really couldn't let anyone go away empty handed- hence the prizes for all y'all (except my friends and pros ha ha. They get nothing but my love).
I can't rant about all the entries, but I did want to talk a bit about our top five.
First, remember these were picked for their unique take-there are dozens of beautiful pieces in the contest but these five floated my boat personally.
#1 winner is Scott Brothers
Scott's Fred Flintstone/Bill Wray-esque mash up stole my heart. Add the art direction and spot on typography for the cover and this is an authentic looking 60s retro winner.
#2 is Brandon Parker
This is an amazing piece when you get over giggling. In some eerie way it captures the emotional dislocation of the Parker world better than anything I've ever seen.
#3 is Ben (two-tone) Jeddrie
This is simply wicked bad. Brilliant design and composition married to one of the famous opening lines that Stark wrote so well.
#4 is Warwick Johnson Cadwell
Warwick's funky take on the running thief sucked me in with it's spare and honest technique. The angle and composition add an odd sense of grace to Parker.
#5 is Ethen Beavers
Ethan rocked me with his bold-ass composition and fearless type layout. Great, confident brushwork.
So there we go. Thanks again, Parker readers. Marsha and I will drop off the prizes at Cal's this week. I hope to see some of you over the next few weeks on the con circuit. Finally, special thanks to my pal Brian MacLachlan for his Jesus comes to Malibu take on Parker. It was too late for the contest, but even with his wedding and honeymoon happening, he chipped in a great image. Thanks pal!
Dar
Saturday, August 15, 2009
winnahs, Parker 2nd printing and more
here you go, the winners of the Draw Parker! contest as chosen by Darwyn. I'll be mailing out the prizes as soon as Darwyn gets them to me, hopefully next week.
and speaking of Parker, the first printing of The Hunter has sold out from IDW and a second printing should be hitting stores in September. There are still copies of the first edition available at some retail bookstores so get'em while they last.
Herve Duphot sent along this nice note:
***************
Bonjour,
J'ai beaucoup de retard pour les illustrations sur Parker mais comme j'ai vu que vous les acceptiez quand même pour les mettre sur le blog, j'ai le plaisir de vous envoyer la mienne.
Je suis fan du travail de darwyn et j'ai vu que c'était vous l'encreur alors même que je surfais sur vos sites sans le savoir ;-)
Je ne sais pas si vous parlez français alors j'essaie de traduire ;-(
I know it's too late to send my drawing for the Parker Contest, but i'll be happy to be on your Darwyn Cooke's blog. I'm a great fan. And i discovered that you were his inker after having often surfed on your personnal blogs.
So i join my drawing even though i don't know yet Parker in France.
PS : I try to be a french comics drawner ;-) Darwyn is a great inspiration for me.
My blog : bradasse.canalblog.com
Thanks
***************
I don't know where Herve got the impression I was an inker, but I've straightened him out. I'm a felicitous facilitator in the best of times and a comic book hustler the rest.
Talk to you folks later!
I'm off to clean the garage! (*whoosh!*)
and speaking of Parker, the first printing of The Hunter has sold out from IDW and a second printing should be hitting stores in September. There are still copies of the first edition available at some retail bookstores so get'em while they last.
Herve Duphot sent along this nice note:
***************
Bonjour,
J'ai beaucoup de retard pour les illustrations sur Parker mais comme j'ai vu que vous les acceptiez quand même pour les mettre sur le blog, j'ai le plaisir de vous envoyer la mienne.
Je suis fan du travail de darwyn et j'ai vu que c'était vous l'encreur alors même que je surfais sur vos sites sans le savoir ;-)
Je ne sais pas si vous parlez français alors j'essaie de traduire ;-(
I know it's too late to send my drawing for the Parker Contest, but i'll be happy to be on your Darwyn Cooke's blog. I'm a great fan. And i discovered that you were his inker after having often surfed on your personnal blogs.
So i join my drawing even though i don't know yet Parker in France.
PS : I try to be a french comics drawner ;-) Darwyn is a great inspiration for me.
My blog : bradasse.canalblog.com
Thanks
***************
I don't know where Herve got the impression I was an inker, but I've straightened him out. I'm a felicitous facilitator in the best of times and a comic book hustler the rest.
Talk to you folks later!
I'm off to clean the garage! (*whoosh!*)
Wednesday, August 12, 2009
upcoming conventions
August 22-23rd Mini-MegaCon Orlando
August 28-30 Toronto FanExpo
September 4-7 DragonCon Hotlanta
September 18-20 Monteal ComicCon
and I should have the Draw Parker! results uploaded on Friday. Sorry for the delay!
August 28-30 Toronto FanExpo
September 4-7 DragonCon Hotlanta
September 18-20 Monteal ComicCon
and I should have the Draw Parker! results uploaded on Friday. Sorry for the delay!
Friday, August 7, 2009
Parker Halifax book launch! Awesome!!
we interrupt the usual blatherings by me to bring you this report:
Thursday August 6 Cal and the gang at Strange Adventures hosted the Halifax launch of The Hunter. It was stellar. There was a great turnout and I think everyone had fun. We had a great time.
Darwyn and I live in the middle of nowhere, so any evening trip into the city is a hassle, but Cal took care of everything and booked us a pet friendly hotel. We arrived at our swanking room with pooches in tow, brought them for a little walk around Citadel Hill and then made our way to the party. You might recognize one of these pooches from Wednesday Comics issue 1.
Tiina and Rachelle booked us into a place that was hotter than Hades, but that just made for more drinking and less clothing. The Frigate looks like a ship inside, with full masts and sails, with a large mural of Halifax Harbour. They didn't have air conditioning in 1813 so neither does the Frigate. Cal was stylin' as usual and there was even a special guest appearance by fellow Haligonian Steve McNiven. Yeah that guy. He and Darwyn don't get to see each other much - Marvel makes Steve work 20 hours days or something. Steve didn't stay long - back to the drawing board for him.
The evening started off slowly, with people melting into seats and after a little while the beer kicked in and people were getting to know each other. Darwyn mingled and tried to talk to everyone for a bit, then he got to the signing. People were coming up with multiple copies, copies for friends that were away, or for gifts. Hooray! Cal did a limited edition bookplate (which you can order from Strange Adventures) Tiina and Dave set up shop with debit even! Well done team! Wow I like exclamation marks! Special mention goes to Rachelle from livingbetweenwednesdays.com who was supposed to co-host the evening and did help organize it but was ill and couldn't make it last night. I think she went to the AC/DC concert instead but who is to say......Get well soon, you were missed.
Earlier in the day I had read on the twitter that Faith Erin Hicks (@smuu) was nervous about meeting Darwyn so I, of course, called her on it when she shyly came up to have her book signed. War at Ellsmere is one of my favourite books so I think of her as a famous comic artist. It's great for teenage girls (let's say 11 and up). Totally my reading level. I don't see a lot comics that girls can read that aren't stupid. Most young people I know are girls so Faith (and Hope Larson) are staples at my house. You can add some of their work to your order from Strange Adventures too LOL. Throw in a copy of Last Resort, that's an awesome comic by Palmiotti/Gray and a cool artist who's name I don't know. There are boobies so not for kids.
After all the books were signed we did the drawing for the door prizes - copies of the Parker sketch book. I got to do the draw and strangely enough mostly people I knew won. I didn't cheat but it was odd. Darwyn then handed out more prizes - advance reader copies of The Hunter, some Parker-T-shirts and some more art books. Darwyn says the funnest part of the night for him was having multiple women fanning him as he drew.
We stuck around for about an hour afterwards, chatting with everyone and teasing Ben (two-tone) and his super awesome girlfriend. We met Laura Kenins from The Coast who had just written a nice article about Darwyn - the ONLY Canadian newspaper to cover the book at all! The night drew to a close just as the temperature was getting tolerable, we walked back to the hotel, grabbed the ladies for a short walk and then ordered pizza. All in all, a great night was had.
Thanks again to Cal, Tiina, Rachelle, Dave and everyone else who helped out, everyone who showed up last night AND most of all thanks to everyone who has supported the book so far.
over and out
Marsha
**********************
we now return you to your regularly scheduled programme.....
Next week! The winners of the Draw Parker contest!
Have a great weekend and read more comics!
Saturday, August 1, 2009
one more Parker and a party in Halifax
Hiya, folks,
Sorry it's been so quiet here for the past week. Darwyn's been in San Diego and I have just been snowed under with work. We'll have the winners of the Draw Parker contest announced in the next couple of days. Stay tuned! In the meantime, the very awesome Brian McLachlan sent along this Parker drawing....
(the contest has closed, but if anyone has a drawing they didn't send in, feel free to do so! We'd love to see them!)
Brian's other work can be seen here and here. Thanks, Brian!
and if you're on the east coast of Canada this Thursday......
we're holding a launch party this Thursday, August 6th. More info here.
Sorry it's been so quiet here for the past week. Darwyn's been in San Diego and I have just been snowed under with work. We'll have the winners of the Draw Parker contest announced in the next couple of days. Stay tuned! In the meantime, the very awesome Brian McLachlan sent along this Parker drawing....
(the contest has closed, but if anyone has a drawing they didn't send in, feel free to do so! We'd love to see them!)
Brian's other work can be seen here and here. Thanks, Brian!
and if you're on the east coast of Canada this Thursday......
we're holding a launch party this Thursday, August 6th. More info here.
Saturday, July 18, 2009
Parker Gallery
I put all of the Draw Parker entries on this gallery for easier viewing. Hopefully I didn't forget any. If you notice any missing, please let me know.
Thanks to those entrants who have sent along their mailing addresses. If you entered the Draw Parker contest and haven't done so, please do. All entrants will be receiving something as our way of saying thanks for taking part.
Thanks to those entrants who have sent along their mailing addresses. If you entered the Draw Parker contest and haven't done so, please do. All entrants will be receiving something as our way of saying thanks for taking part.
Friday, July 17, 2009
final Parker!
Sean Scoffield wrote in with this entry and added, "Hope I made it in time for the Parker contest. I literally only discovered it days ago and had to fit the drawing around work and kids,etc.. It felt great to use a brush and ink again, it's been awhile. Can't wait to see Darwyn's book. I can't think of anything else that I'm looking forward to as much.
I should mention that I'm a graphic designer and illustrator who works mainly in film, although I've done some comics over the years. My website will be up by the end of the month, after years of delay and laziness."
Thanks, Sean! Now that the entries are all in, it will take a couple of days for Darwyn to sift through them all and make some very tough decisions. Keep an eye on the blog and we'll announce the winners over the next few days. Remember, all the folks who submitted entries, please send in your mailing address so we can send out the signed books and a thank you to all who took part. Thank you for taking the time to send in your illustrations and keep reading good comics!
I should mention that I'm a graphic designer and illustrator who works mainly in film, although I've done some comics over the years. My website will be up by the end of the month, after years of delay and laziness."
Thanks, Sean! Now that the entries are all in, it will take a couple of days for Darwyn to sift through them all and make some very tough decisions. Keep an eye on the blog and we'll announce the winners over the next few days. Remember, all the folks who submitted entries, please send in your mailing address so we can send out the signed books and a thank you to all who took part. Thank you for taking the time to send in your illustrations and keep reading good comics!
Thursday, July 16, 2009
more Parkers!
A few more entries in the Draw Parker contest...
First up is Anthony Forgione who writes, "I'm not an artist, but I tried to show Parker caught in a double cross after a score. The picture above the bed is a swipe of Robert McGinnis. Also, note that the girl in the bed was passing time with DC's New Frontier (the Absolute version, now available at bookstores!) as she waited for Parker to show."
Thanks, Anthony! Next is JonRob who sent in this stylish piece:
Nice stuff, Jon! And the last one for tonight is from Kristof Spaey who mentioned, "I didn't really have time for this since the deadline for my comic is fast approaching, but I couldn't waste this opportunity to show my appreciation of Darwyn's work and the chance to win a signed copy of his newest book."
Very cool, Kristof. If this is what you do without much time, your comic book should be a stunner. You can see more of Kristof's work at here.
Well, one more post tomorrow morning to show the final entries that get sent in tonight. Then it will be a couple of days to go through all the wonderful submissions. If you have entered a drawing for the contest, please send me your mailing address so we can send you something. Darwyn was very impressed with the entries and the number of them and he'd like to say thanks.
First up is Anthony Forgione who writes, "I'm not an artist, but I tried to show Parker caught in a double cross after a score. The picture above the bed is a swipe of Robert McGinnis. Also, note that the girl in the bed was passing time with DC's New Frontier (the Absolute version, now available at bookstores!) as she waited for Parker to show."
Thanks, Anthony! Next is JonRob who sent in this stylish piece:
Nice stuff, Jon! And the last one for tonight is from Kristof Spaey who mentioned, "I didn't really have time for this since the deadline for my comic is fast approaching, but I couldn't waste this opportunity to show my appreciation of Darwyn's work and the chance to win a signed copy of his newest book."
Very cool, Kristof. If this is what you do without much time, your comic book should be a stunner. You can see more of Kristof's work at here.
Well, one more post tomorrow morning to show the final entries that get sent in tonight. Then it will be a couple of days to go through all the wonderful submissions. If you have entered a drawing for the contest, please send me your mailing address so we can send you something. Darwyn was very impressed with the entries and the number of them and he'd like to say thanks.
some more Parkers as the deadline approaches!
Woodrow Phoenix writes, "I just saw this contest was going on yesterday and I wasn't going to worry about it but... you know how it is when a little idea just won't go away. So here's my quick sketch!"
Thanks, Woodrow! Glenn Greenham sent in this email, "I've attached my entry to the Parker contest. As you can see, I am far from an artist but I couldn't miss the chance at winning a copy of this book. It took me forever to scratch this entry on a piece of paper. Yes I googled "how to draw" and I also contemplated raiding my kids "craft drawer" for help. I'm a huge fan of Darwyn's work and am looking forward to the Hunter adaptation. All of the entries look great!"
Great stuff, Glenn! Time for one more; this is from Alex Schumacher: "I hope I'm not too late! I believe you are accepting submissions until tomorrow so with any luck I've made it by the skin of my teeth...
Anyway, here's my rendition of Parker. Darwyn is such a talented artist who deserves every accolade he receives and has long since been a large influence on my work. If it sounds like I'm kissing a little ass...well it's because I am! However, I'm also being very sincere. I can't wait for The Hunter to come out and do hope that my doodle may be included in the "draw Parker" contest with the other fine entries!"
Alex also has a blog here with more of his work.
Thanks to all who entered. Today, July 16th is the deadline for entries. I'll be checking email later today and first thing tomorrow morning for the final update in the Draw Parker contest, so you still have time to get your drawing in to us!
Thanks, Woodrow! Glenn Greenham sent in this email, "I've attached my entry to the Parker contest. As you can see, I am far from an artist but I couldn't miss the chance at winning a copy of this book. It took me forever to scratch this entry on a piece of paper. Yes I googled "how to draw" and I also contemplated raiding my kids "craft drawer" for help. I'm a huge fan of Darwyn's work and am looking forward to the Hunter adaptation. All of the entries look great!"
Great stuff, Glenn! Time for one more; this is from Alex Schumacher: "I hope I'm not too late! I believe you are accepting submissions until tomorrow so with any luck I've made it by the skin of my teeth...
Anyway, here's my rendition of Parker. Darwyn is such a talented artist who deserves every accolade he receives and has long since been a large influence on my work. If it sounds like I'm kissing a little ass...well it's because I am! However, I'm also being very sincere. I can't wait for The Hunter to come out and do hope that my doodle may be included in the "draw Parker" contest with the other fine entries!"
Alex also has a blog here with more of his work.
Thanks to all who entered. Today, July 16th is the deadline for entries. I'll be checking email later today and first thing tomorrow morning for the final update in the Draw Parker contest, so you still have time to get your drawing in to us!
Wednesday, July 15, 2009
Drinks with Darwyn at San Diego!
The Hero Initiative (a very worthwhile charity organization) is holding an ebay auction that, if you're going to the San Diego Comic-con, you might want to check out.....
Cocktail party with Darwyn Cooke at SDCC 2009!
.....I wish I was going to San Diego!
Cocktail party with Darwyn Cooke at SDCC 2009!
.....I wish I was going to San Diego!
more new Parkers
Courtesy of the Parker brothers, Brandon and Quinten: "here are our interpretations of Parker Prime, from whom Parkers the world over derive their strength from."
Barry McWilliams is a designer working in tv, living in LA. and he adds, "I've been a huge Darwyn fan since New Frontier and I can't wait to get my hands on a copy of his new book."
Didier is a French designer living in Hong Kong. He writes, "I have been a fan of Mister Cooke's work. Here is my entry for the contest. I have to say that I haven't read anything about Parker ( excepted some quick google stuff ) and I am looking forward to read the Graphic Novel. This was the opportunity for me to try my new tablet PC with pressure sensitive pen and also a style I don't usually do!"
You can see more of Didier's work here.
And Ben Jeddrie sent in this note accompanying his version of Parker, "My name is Ben, and I live in Halifax, Nova Scotia, although I have also not. I draw for various purposes, but mostly for myself to do. I like ice creams and short walks on especially sandy beaches (without shoes). I enjoy greatly Mr. Cooke and the work he has done. My Parker drawing is inspired by the opening line of 1974's "Butcher's Moon", the last of the series before the long hiatus. It was done, as seen, in the style of paperback illustrations, which I like to see, and with occasional thoughts of Harvey Kurtzman. Who, I believe, helped it to live more."
Also, Ben has a drawing blog here.
Big thanks to all the folks who have sent in submissions - they are wonderful and Darwyn is going to have a tough time picking his favourites.
Barry McWilliams is a designer working in tv, living in LA. and he adds, "I've been a huge Darwyn fan since New Frontier and I can't wait to get my hands on a copy of his new book."
Didier is a French designer living in Hong Kong. He writes, "I have been a fan of Mister Cooke's work. Here is my entry for the contest. I have to say that I haven't read anything about Parker ( excepted some quick google stuff ) and I am looking forward to read the Graphic Novel. This was the opportunity for me to try my new tablet PC with pressure sensitive pen and also a style I don't usually do!"
You can see more of Didier's work here.
And Ben Jeddrie sent in this note accompanying his version of Parker, "My name is Ben, and I live in Halifax, Nova Scotia, although I have also not. I draw for various purposes, but mostly for myself to do. I like ice creams and short walks on especially sandy beaches (without shoes). I enjoy greatly Mr. Cooke and the work he has done. My Parker drawing is inspired by the opening line of 1974's "Butcher's Moon", the last of the series before the long hiatus. It was done, as seen, in the style of paperback illustrations, which I like to see, and with occasional thoughts of Harvey Kurtzman. Who, I believe, helped it to live more."
Also, Ben has a drawing blog here.
Big thanks to all the folks who have sent in submissions - they are wonderful and Darwyn is going to have a tough time picking his favourites.
Tuesday, July 14, 2009
new Parkers and some convention appearances
First up is Ollie! Take it away, Ollie:
"Hi, my name is Ollie and I live in England, here Is my entry for the Parker contest. I'm a big fan of Darwyn's and I'm looking forward to seeing his adaptation. I don't really know that much about the character, I've only seen the Lee Marvin movie so that's why I decided to go with kind of a movie poster image. Olie doesn't have a blog or anything to plug. As he put it, "I just like to draw every now and then." Well, keep it up!
Next is Anthony Hightower. He writes, "I'm a big fan of Darwyn's work and I'm
anticipating The Hunter like few books in my life. The previews I've seen
are amazing. So when I saw this contest I figured it was a great excuse
for my own Parker painting!"
Anthony added, "In case you're interested, I'm a founding member of 803 Studios and I've
drawn three issues of Negative Burn for Desperado as well as the
mini-series, Gutwrencher for Shadowline/Image comics. The newly expanded
trade paperback of Gutwrencher will be out in a few months from IDW. My
website is undergoing a complete revamping at the moment, but some
galleries are up and running in the meantime. Just go to
www.anthonyhightower.com to check them out."
Okay, I will! Thanks, Anthony!
In convention news, from the last couple of posts you should all by now be aware that Darwyn wil be at the San Diego Comic-con taking place July 23-26. He will be signing books at the IDW booth and may appear elsewhere as well. He is not going to have any time to do sketches at this show, but Albert Moy will have some new art for sale.
The rest of the summer goes like this:
Mini MegaCon
Orlando
August 22nd-23rd, 2009
Fan Expo
Toronto
Aug 28-20
DragonCon
Atlanta
Sept 4-7
"Hi, my name is Ollie and I live in England, here Is my entry for the Parker contest. I'm a big fan of Darwyn's and I'm looking forward to seeing his adaptation. I don't really know that much about the character, I've only seen the Lee Marvin movie so that's why I decided to go with kind of a movie poster image. Olie doesn't have a blog or anything to plug. As he put it, "I just like to draw every now and then." Well, keep it up!
Next is Anthony Hightower. He writes, "I'm a big fan of Darwyn's work and I'm
anticipating The Hunter like few books in my life. The previews I've seen
are amazing. So when I saw this contest I figured it was a great excuse
for my own Parker painting!"
Anthony added, "In case you're interested, I'm a founding member of 803 Studios and I've
drawn three issues of Negative Burn for Desperado as well as the
mini-series, Gutwrencher for Shadowline/Image comics. The newly expanded
trade paperback of Gutwrencher will be out in a few months from IDW. My
website is undergoing a complete revamping at the moment, but some
galleries are up and running in the meantime. Just go to
www.anthonyhightower.com to check them out."
Okay, I will! Thanks, Anthony!
In convention news, from the last couple of posts you should all by now be aware that Darwyn wil be at the San Diego Comic-con taking place July 23-26. He will be signing books at the IDW booth and may appear elsewhere as well. He is not going to have any time to do sketches at this show, but Albert Moy will have some new art for sale.
The rest of the summer goes like this:
Mini MegaCon
Orlando
August 22nd-23rd, 2009
Fan Expo
Toronto
Aug 28-20
DragonCon
Atlanta
Sept 4-7
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