New additions
Introduction: Welcome to the second iteration of the Shopping for the Artist series of articles. I have had some of the items shown here for longer than others, but they all seemed to be worth a review to me. This is a great place for me to compile a list of art supplies, books, music, movies, and toys that I have found useful in some capacity to my artistic endeavors. This is also a great spot for me to recommend artists and their work! If you have a product you would like to see me review, don't hesitate to ask!
The Wonderful Wizard of OZ:
Being the Skottie Young and Wizard of OZ junkie that I am, it is only natural that this is one of my favorite books of all time. I have both the first and second printing of this book, and was able to get Skottie Young to sign my first addition copy. The storytelling and art is exactly what you want and expect from a whimsical fantasy adventure. This Eisner winning adaptation is a great teaching example when it comes to the world of public domain and illustration. This is one the books that I will be using to teach my Illustration course for the 2016-2017 school year. If you have not read this Marvel produced series, I highly recommend you check it out as soon as possible.
*Side Note: These books are starting to become a little hard to find, if you are interested you should try and find one soon!*
Current Price on Comixology: $14.99
Being the Skottie Young and Wizard of OZ junkie that I am, it is only natural that this is one of my favorite books of all time. I have both the first and second printing of this book, and was able to get Skottie Young to sign my first addition copy. The storytelling and art is exactly what you want and expect from a whimsical fantasy adventure. This Eisner winning adaptation is a great teaching example when it comes to the world of public domain and illustration. This is one the books that I will be using to teach my Illustration course for the 2016-2017 school year. If you have not read this Marvel produced series, I highly recommend you check it out as soon as possible.
*Side Note: These books are starting to become a little hard to find, if you are interested you should try and find one soon!*
Current Price on Comixology: $14.99
Hammermill 60-Pound 11X17 Paper (250 Sheets):
I find that selecting a type of paper to work on can be somewhat difficult. In a lot of ways it does not really matter to me, I feel like I can draw on anything to make a pin-up or character sketch. The really problem for me arises when I am looking for what to draw comics on. Hammermill is an industry trusted brand, and after ordering my first ream I can see why. For me, I find that this paper is best served for inking purposes. If you work digitally for roughs/pencils before moving to traditional inks, I would highly recommend this paper. I liked having each individual panel of my comic on a separate sheet of paper, but I am excited to at least try out the more "traditional" route. This still technically qualifies as Computer Paper, so I think that I am going to use it out for creating my next comic.
Current Price on Amazon: $22.44
I find that selecting a type of paper to work on can be somewhat difficult. In a lot of ways it does not really matter to me, I feel like I can draw on anything to make a pin-up or character sketch. The really problem for me arises when I am looking for what to draw comics on. Hammermill is an industry trusted brand, and after ordering my first ream I can see why. For me, I find that this paper is best served for inking purposes. If you work digitally for roughs/pencils before moving to traditional inks, I would highly recommend this paper. I liked having each individual panel of my comic on a separate sheet of paper, but I am excited to at least try out the more "traditional" route. This still technically qualifies as Computer Paper, so I think that I am going to use it out for creating my next comic.
Current Price on Amazon: $22.44
Staedtler Pigment Liner Pens - 4 Pack (0.1/0.3/0.5/0.7):
I have used many different brands of inking pens over the years, and I was pretty satisfied with Microns. While still available on some websites I was ready to try the Copic Multiliner SP set, but due to a shortage of Copic products nearly everywhere at the moment I wanted to try something a little more readily available. It was after reading through the FAQ page on Mike Mignola's website, that I found out this is the brand that he uses. Initially, I found this rather odd, because I have not seen too many people recommend these pens. However, I figured if they are good enough for the great Mignola, than who am I to argue? I have only done one drawing with these so far, but I do really like the line quality. Only time will tell when it comes to how long the last before needing replacement, but I am anxious to see what happens. I'll be sure to notate in my DailySketches when these pens have made their way into the rotation.
Current Price on Amazon: $13.50
I have used many different brands of inking pens over the years, and I was pretty satisfied with Microns. While still available on some websites I was ready to try the Copic Multiliner SP set, but due to a shortage of Copic products nearly everywhere at the moment I wanted to try something a little more readily available. It was after reading through the FAQ page on Mike Mignola's website, that I found out this is the brand that he uses. Initially, I found this rather odd, because I have not seen too many people recommend these pens. However, I figured if they are good enough for the great Mignola, than who am I to argue? I have only done one drawing with these so far, but I do really like the line quality. Only time will tell when it comes to how long the last before needing replacement, but I am anxious to see what happens. I'll be sure to notate in my DailySketches when these pens have made their way into the rotation.
Current Price on Amazon: $13.50
Unnatural Talent:
Essential. Critically essential. If you have any interest at all in making your own comic book, webcomic, or graphic novel this book is something that your are going to need. Written by Jason Brubaker, this book serves as a field guide to navigating the world of independent comics. I have read this book cover to cover multiple times, and constantly refer to it as needed for quick information on certain topics.
Another component to this book, if you are interested, is that Jason has a fully recorded audio version of it available as well. Perfect for on the go or listening to in the car, this version of the book is great for study and leisure purposes. Both of these options (as well as a digital copy) are available through Amazon.
Current Price on Amazon: $14.04
Essential. Critically essential. If you have any interest at all in making your own comic book, webcomic, or graphic novel this book is something that your are going to need. Written by Jason Brubaker, this book serves as a field guide to navigating the world of independent comics. I have read this book cover to cover multiple times, and constantly refer to it as needed for quick information on certain topics.
Another component to this book, if you are interested, is that Jason has a fully recorded audio version of it available as well. Perfect for on the go or listening to in the car, this version of the book is great for study and leisure purposes. Both of these options (as well as a digital copy) are available through Amazon.
Current Price on Amazon: $14.04
Power Rangers Legacy Figures - 5 Inch:
I am fully willing to admit that these figures may not be for everyone, but if you were a Power Rangers fan back in the day these figures are morphinominal. The Legacy Series of Power Rangers toys has been a bit of an odd one. Awkward release dates and schedules, limited supplies of certain toys and not of others, and the overall up-sale and inconsistent pricing can make them a little frustrating to collect. However, I have never been disappointed with the quality of any Zord or figure I was fortunate enough to acquire from this line. If you are looking to upgrade from your original toys, but are not willing to pay Figuarts prices (can't say I blame you) then these might be just the figures you are looking for.
This series has been in production for a few years, and I have sporadically collected a few pieces. The most notable piece of my collection is the Legacy Dragonzord. A nostalgic blast from the past Christmas present, I would say that if you can find a good deal on this it is well worth the pick up. If you are looking for something a little less ornate, a 5-inch figure is sure to satisfy your Power Ranger craving. The movie ones have nicely sculpted armor, but it is hard to beat the original series in their triangular green boxes. Either way, you can't go wrong with these figures.
Current Price Anywhere: Various (Expect around $20)
I am fully willing to admit that these figures may not be for everyone, but if you were a Power Rangers fan back in the day these figures are morphinominal. The Legacy Series of Power Rangers toys has been a bit of an odd one. Awkward release dates and schedules, limited supplies of certain toys and not of others, and the overall up-sale and inconsistent pricing can make them a little frustrating to collect. However, I have never been disappointed with the quality of any Zord or figure I was fortunate enough to acquire from this line. If you are looking to upgrade from your original toys, but are not willing to pay Figuarts prices (can't say I blame you) then these might be just the figures you are looking for.
This series has been in production for a few years, and I have sporadically collected a few pieces. The most notable piece of my collection is the Legacy Dragonzord. A nostalgic blast from the past Christmas present, I would say that if you can find a good deal on this it is well worth the pick up. If you are looking for something a little less ornate, a 5-inch figure is sure to satisfy your Power Ranger craving. The movie ones have nicely sculpted armor, but it is hard to beat the original series in their triangular green boxes. Either way, you can't go wrong with these figures.
Current Price Anywhere: Various (Expect around $20)
Conclusion: I hope that these reviews prove useful, especially if you are on the fence about something. This type of "article" is probably more aptly described as a blog post or review. However, I will be getting back to some critical analysis of comic book work very soon! As as always, if you have a topic you would like for me to expound upon you can reach me through the contact link above. Have a great day everyone, and man oh man does it feel good to have that first comic book done!