Monday, December 30, 2013

Post Christmas update

I had a fairly relaxing holiday with Wendy. We started the day helping to feed the needy at a church lunch. Her sister and brother in law were in town to help with that, but left right after.  And then we did... nothing.  Oh boy, nothing.  This is the first Christmas since we have been married (19 years) that we didn't spend traveling to and from somebody else's house.  We missed not seeing some people but it was just nice with the both of us.

Over the weekend we went to see my mother in Lexington, NC and got to spend more time with her, so that was nice.
On a comic book related note, Lexington has its first comic book store in over a decade. Top Hat Comics is on Main St about a block from the square.  Nice guy, I hope he does well.  I of course, dropped off a few copies of iNTERMEZZO and he said he was passing them around.

I also picked up some art supplies on the way home to keep going on issue 10. I put in reorders for 5 books that I was running low of issues.

Next stop Wilkesboro Jan 18th.

Monday, December 16, 2013

Charlotte Comicon Post Show

Had a great overall weekend. Missed Wendy and didn't get much sleep, but I got to see a new comic book store in my hometown Lexington, NC.  There hasn't been one of those in years.  I stopped by and talked to them; nice guys. I also dropped off a couple issues of iNTERMEZZO. The place is called Top Hat Comics, and has some cool unique stuff.

Visited with my Mom, had a good night together and then on to the comic show.

Charlotte Comicon is called "The biggest one day comic show." I don't know if that is technically true or not, but it is very big.  Met a lot of people and sold more comics than anything else (that always makes me happy).  A couple who bought issues 1-3 in my last show in Winston Salem were there and they bought 4-9 and talked for quite a while. There names are Bobby and Suzanne (I think, I told them I am bad with names).  I always like Rick Fortenberry's shows. I also got to see Jay and Eddie, who put on the last show I did.  Sheltron Drum, who puts on Heroescon. Waki (John Wycough Who is just fun to be around, and meet some new people.  Just what a comic book show should be.

I reserved a space for a minicon in Charlotte on Jan 25th.  That means I will be in Wilkesboro on the 18th and in Charlotte on the 25th that month.  Started looking into setting my calendar early and try to plan ahead.

Oh, and I put some new pics up of costumes that I saw at the show.  Lots of fun stuff there.

Saturday, December 14, 2013

Charlotte Bound

I am leaving for the Charlotte Comicon tomorrow. I am stopping in to see Mom tonight and then on the road at the crack of dawn (Ok, more like 7:30).  I've got a new art print for this one that I am excited about, and as always I've got copies of all my comics.

A day at a comic book convention is a good day.

Wednesday, December 11, 2013

Happy Anniversary

To anyone who knows me, or read the covers to my comics or enough of my posts, you will have heard me mention my wife Wendy. Today is our 19 year anniversary.  I cannot stress enough how much her support has meant to me in every aspect of my life.

In the context of my comic, it would not be even remotely possible without her support.  I think all creative people have doubts and insecurities. Having someone who believes in you is the best thing you can wish for in your life.

I hope everyone has someone like Wendy in your life.  But you can't have her, I'm keeping mine.

Sunday, December 8, 2013

Dec update

So I have finished a new art piece as a tribute to the Great Pumpkin. I will have prints available by the next show, which is Sunday Dec 15th in Charlotte.  I have done many Charlotte Mini Cons, I hope I do as well as I have the last few.

Also trying to make progress on the 10th issue of iNTERMEZZO and my eternal battle with the scanner.  I will add more on that as it happens. I try not to be someone who posts every page or panel he finishes anyway, so I don't put up a lot from issues until they are complete.

I do miss scanning my daily sketches and posting them, that was fun.  Maybe I will get back to that someday.

So I got a few responses when I asked for people to tell me their favorite character from iNTERMEZZO. A couple of posts here, facebook and email.  Cheapshot was the character most mentioned.

Sunday, November 24, 2013

Comic book show wrap up

Winston Salem was a fun trip. I was with my best friend Jeff so it was a fun ride and we were set up next to each other at the show so it made for a good convention as well.  Jay and Eddies put on a good show with a good crowd of people. I wish I could have gotten a few more comics into the hands of potential readers (but that never changes, anytime I come home with copies left I feel I could have done better) but I got to talk with a lot of con-goers who seem genuinely interested and entertained with hearing about my comics.  So thank you all for a good time, and thanks to Jay and Eddie's for putting it on.

The really neat thing about that area is that they have 3 comic stores in that area. Jay and Eddies (Who put on the show), Burke Street comics (whom I met on a trip through Winston, not too long ago and who talked to me about iNTERMEZZO and how he enjoys it) and Ssalefish (whose store is in the same spot as a Heroes Arent hard to Find satellite store that was open for a long time, and I went to semi frequently as a kid and have great memories of). For that area to have 3 stores (when my town of Wilson can have trouble sustaining one) is encouraging; that the fan base is strong, you just have to find it.

While at the show I met a guy who had read the first 8 issues and picked up the 9th. He told me his favorite character was Fire Ant.  I admit that I was a little taken aback by that. Although I think he is a fantastic design; I once had someone look at him on the cover of issue 3 and correctly guess his name, that is a successful character design.  But Fire Ant plays the part of the straight man (to use the Vaudevillian term) in the Legion of Injusticeness story, so he is not the one who I thought would stand out as a favorite.  Goes to show you how once the story leaves my head, it is then the readers story. They get to pick their favorites, and they are drawn to characters that appeal to them.
That was a great moment for me.

But that leads me to the idea... what are your favorites? Post or email me at brian@bearbuttcomics.com and let me know, because now I am really curious.

Monday, November 18, 2013

Returning to Winston Salem Nov 23rd

I will be attending Jay and Eddie's comic book show this Saturday. I went once before and had a great show, so I am looking forward to going back.  Winston Salem is very close to home, and I have visited a lot of shops in the area (Burke Street comics, Ssalefish, and the places in Greensboro Acme Comics, Parts Unknown).  It's so different than around Wilson, where we have one comic shop that is struggling to get by.  It just feels like there is a big fan base of stuff I like there, and it makes me want to go back.  I hope to become a regular around there.

Have some stuff to get ready beforehand.  Always good to keep me busy.

Friday, November 15, 2013

Really?

So I have sort of figured out how to post on this...
A bit of an odd week for me. The show went really well for me, but some personal issues are draining my optimism.  Working on a few things, and hopefully will do a comic show soon and maybe see my Mom (both things are related to the funk I am in).

Overall I think I am just feeling pretty powerless.  That's the worst way to feel.

I hope I bounce back, but I'm not that good at that lately.

My blog page won't let me post anything other than a title, just one more thing...

Tuesday, November 12, 2013

Pics of NCComicon

Pics of the con are being posted on my Flickr page, as well as a bunch from Roanoke. Check them out, both shows were a lot of fun.

Monday, November 11, 2013

NC Comicon

That was the best showing at a convention I've ever had! I had the best location I could hope for, met TONS of people and got to show them my art, my comics, and talk about whatever.  It was pretty awesome.

My only complaint is that I couldn't just leave my tables for hours on end and watch the comic film festival.  Those looked awesome, I could have made a weekend of just that and been a happy geek.

It was a whirlwind of activity, and I am exhausted.  And I couldn't be happier, it went so much better than I expected.

Friday, November 8, 2013

SOOON!

After work today I am on my way to set up for NCComicon in Durham. A lot of people I know will be there, looking forward to it. I only wish I had time to see their movie festival cuz that looks awesome.

Come by and see me at the show. Say the magic phrase and win a prize...
"Knowing is half the battle"
Also acceptable is ... "Hey! You're that famous guy from Bear Butt Comics!"
Cuz I'm a sucker for flattery.

Wednesday, November 6, 2013

Roanoke pics

I've posted several pictures taken at the Roanoke Comicon on my flickr and facebook pages.  They had a lot of neat costumes, check it out.

Here is the obligatory picture of pretty women in skimpy, sort of comic related costumes.

SOON

NCComicon... Durham, NC... big comic convention... this weekend (Nov 9th and 10th)... lots of stuff to do... trying to get ready... very busy... gotta go.

Monday, November 4, 2013

Post Roanoke Post

I had a very good show at Roanoke this past Saturday.  They had a huge crowd, and I met a lot of people and a good number of them bought a comic, art print, original sketch, or craft.  It was a variety of things sold, with no big seller. That is very cool to me, it means that people are finding something to fit their taste.

So great show, then got lost on the way home. That happens to me a lot, so Wendy and I have bought me a smart phone so I can use the GPS Directions app thingy from now on.

I have a bunch of pictures that I will post soon.

Next up... NCComicon this weekend!

Friday, November 1, 2013

Roanoke comicon

Getting on the road for my first comicbook convention I have had in months.  Anyone who tells me happy birthday tomorrow wins a prize (its not my birthday, but it feels like it).

Wednesday, October 30, 2013

Trick or Treat

For Halloween I am posting the cover to issue 6, my Trick or Treat cover.  Have a happy Halloween

Monday, October 28, 2013

Upcoming shows and progress on issue 10

Saturday Nov 2nd I will be appearing at the Roanoke Valley Comicon.  I have been there several times before, and had some very good shows there.  I am using the trip as an opportunity to stop by and see my mother this weekend as well.  So I will be on the road this weekend, and loving it.  I have not been to many shows this year, but my new work schedule has opened up a lot of new chances.  By the end of the year I will be doing four more shows, which is as many as I have gotten to do for the first 10 months this year.

I have a lot of new stuff to take with me, and more I hope to finish before NCComicon on Nov 9th and 10th.

Moving forward with issue 10, almost half inked. When I put down the 12th page (out of 24) to begin inking I thought to myself "HUMP PAGE!" and snickered.  It was late, so to me that was funny.

Wednesday, October 23, 2013

Roanoke, and NC Comicon

I have a table at the Roanoke Comicon on Nov 2nd. I haven't been to that show in quite a while, and it is always a good one, so I am excited.  OK, I haven't been to any show in quite a while, so I am just excited to be going anywhere and display my work.

The weekend after that I will be at NC Comicon (Nov 9 and 10), and that was an amazing show last year, so I am looking forward to that as well.  I will also be set up with Stacy and Jason and their artistic creations and costume pieces.

It has been a long time since I've gone to a show, but my new work schedule looks to be opening up a lot more opportunities.

Work on issue 10 and the continuation of the Bootooth Saga is underway.  I have several pages inked and moving along at a good pace these days.  But when I am finished I will have to address the scanner problem ($#!&%^%$#).  Not sure what will be the solution.

Friday, October 18, 2013

New Video

http://animoto.com/play/r592azGyI5ZlQCPUBCRihQ

Here is the video previewing art from The Journey of Brave Ulysses.  Check it out!  Spread it around.

The Journey of Brave Ulysses

http://www.indyplanet.com/store/product_info.php?products_id=8504
 
 
So here is the link for The Journey of Brave Ulysses, available on indyplanet.  Be sure to follow the link, because their search feature won't find it.

Wednesday, October 16, 2013

Update

Started my new job yesterday; I have that "In over my head" feeling, but I think I always have that these days.

Still no scanner.  Still no daily sketches to post (I have dozens of them, just can't post them).  I am making progress on issue 10 (currently inking).

I have shows I am hoping to attend, the next solid date I have is NCComicon.  That has been a great show in the past and it is really expanding.

Saturday, October 12, 2013

Family portrait commission

A friend that I play Heroclix with on Thursday nights (who has the entire set of iNTERMEZZO, you should try it) commissioned me to paint him, his wife, and their five kids as the Avengers.  Each of them picked what characters they wanted to be and I drew, inked, and painted a 2 foot by 3 foot family portrait.  I delivered the original before posting this, so he got to see it first.  Here are the inked, and painted versions.

Monday, October 7, 2013

What if Superheroes Behaved like Politicains?

Its a pic of a sketch instead of a scan (the scanner is still the bane of my existence) so it is a little hard to read.

"We would love to stop the Masters of Evil, but we have Shut Down the Avengers until we decide if our battlecry will be AVENGERS ASSEMBLE! OR AVENGERS UP AND AT 'EM!"

This is the second in what may become a series of this idea.  Here was the first...


Sunday, October 6, 2013

Random update

Still no scanner ($#!**@^*!!!).

Getting closer to finishing a family portrait commission.

Spent the night carving pumpkins.  Pics to follow soon.

Also working on the inks for issue 10.

I will be starting my new job in 2 weeks, nervous as all get out.

ummm... that's about it.

Sunday, September 29, 2013

No... not a daily sketch

Since I cannot scan any new daily sketches I decided to post a drawing I did  while ago.  I have limited prints of this available (because not all people remember the village people, and others might disagree with the Hulk being the Cowboy).

Saturday, September 28, 2013

Random Observation

I don't get enough credit for not breaking things that I REALLY want to break.

Friday, September 27, 2013

The Eternal Struggle

Wendy (my wife) and her mom are going to DC for a few days, leaving me on my own.  This starts the endless challenge of trying to accomplish everything that I think I should be able to in that time vs. what I actually get done.

They leave tomorrow morning, and while I have to work 4 out of the 5 days they are gone I have a few things set aside to finish.  I also have a lot of tv shows on the dvr, so we will see who wins out.

Maybe if I keep track here of what I accomplish, that will keep me going.

Tuesday, September 24, 2013

The last daily sketch until I get the %^&*@%!!! Scanner working

Captain Marvel... Photon... Proton... Spectrum.  If Marvel ever settles on a name they have a great character.

Monday, September 23, 2013

@&^$%#*!!!!

So lately I have been posting a lot of Daily Sketches. 
There were a couple of reasons; I have been doing a lot of sketches and I wanted to start posting more of my non comic pages because I thought some of them were pretty good,
 and also because after numerous times of problems with my scanner I thought that if I used it everyday it would not go out again. 
That would have been an incorrect assumption.  The scanner is out again.  I am so sick of this.  I went into the living room after it has happened again and my wife asked me straight away "Something wrong with the scanner?"  Apparently I have a scanner face.

I will work on it again tonight and try to resume the daily sketches.

On a non related but also irritating note, there is a comic show in Winston Salem this Sunday that I couldn't get a table for because I had to work.  I tried to get someone to switch days so I could make it but no one did, until last week when someone had something they needed a day off for and we swapped days.  But by then, the show was sold out, so I still can't make it.  Hopefully I can add something soon; if not my next show isn't until NCComicon in Nov.

Friday, September 20, 2013

Daily Sketch time

I am actually keeping this up.  So far the constant use of the scanner has kept it from further being the bane of my existence. 

Here is Plastic Man, a fantastic character (when they use him).

Thursday, September 19, 2013

Wednesday, September 18, 2013

Sketch

One of the daily sketches I am posting both here and on my Facebook page.  This one is the best Catwoman who ever purred...
And so far the scanner is working (fingers crossed).  I will try and remember to post a sketch a day.

Monday, September 16, 2013

daily sketches

Trying to remember to post more stuff, particularly sketches.  If I can keep my scanner working ($#!*&!)  then I will post one a day.
 
This is Orion from Kirby's Fourth World, which would make for a fantastic movie (if Warner Brothers wasn't scared of doing anything other than Batman and Superman).

Friday, September 13, 2013

So...

As of yesterday I have been offered a new job.  It is still in the same general area that I am in (I work in a bank call center to pay the bills, exciting stuff) but will be moving to a new position in a month.  This means my schedule will change and I will have my weekends free (instead of having to work every other Sunday).  The thought that dances in my head is that the comic book conventions that I have been missing because I have to work are now a real possibility!

So, nothing definite yet, but soon Bear Butt Comics will be a much more visible part of a lot more shows. Instead of this being a nagging obsession, maybe I can make it a real priority.

 It is time for me to do more.

Thursday, September 12, 2013

Update and stuff

So I have the lettering for issue 10 done, the pencils for the cover done (the third in the bear head silhouette covers), and I am working on a page for a DC Comics contest.  Its a Harley Quinn Contest that has stirred up a bit of controversy among the comic community (but completely unnoticed by anyone else, like most comic book controversies that don't involve Ben Affleck).

Add that to a lot  of sketches that I have been drawing lately (and I mean a LOT, I need a portfolio just for displaying sketches now) and it looks like I have been pretty busy.

If I ever get to another comic show I am ready.  I have a couple I am looking into, and others I am missing because of work (Rassa Frassa frassa).  The next one I have actually scheduled is NCComicon in November.

I have missed far too many shows this year, I need my comic geek fix.  And issue 10 is too far from being finished to appease the obsession.

Monday, September 2, 2013

Issue 10 pencils are done.

Finished penciling the last page last night. Wendy has poured over the pages to see what I may have messed up and I fixed what needed to be so I am moving on to lettering today.  This issue features more Huh art from the 90's so I have 5 pages already lettered and inked, so it feels like I am moving along at a good clip.

Soon the Bootooth Saga, my first epic storyline, will be in full swing.

Bios

These are the bios from issue 9.  Starting with that issue I will now include bios of various characters in the back to fill you in on these characters who take up so much room in my head. 

Who do you want to see get a bio next issue?

Wednesday, August 28, 2013

Intermezzo

While looking at stuff on youtube I found this clip from a musical group known as Intermezzo.  This made me laugh (and feel a bit dirty).

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gxG2AWPG07E

Friday, August 23, 2013

BOOM Studios

So I posted some pages on BOOM Studios artist submissions page on Facebook.  That is a great thing for them to do.  The prospect of keeping up with that is not an easy thing to do, but they are providing people with the avenue to submit to them very easily. 

Here are the pages I put up there, run by and check it out.  "Like" my stuff if you are so inclined.  There's a lot from a lot of people so look around, it's interesting to see the different styles and levels of talent.

Tuesday, August 20, 2013

New Pic

There's a lot of layers to geek in this original sketch by yours truly..

Thursday, August 15, 2013

Happy happy

Tomorrow is my birthday. Wendy is throwing a party where we will be tie dyeing, I enjoyed it when we did it for another friends birthday a few years back.  Working on a design to follow up on my Captain America tie dye shirt from last time.

Sunday, August 11, 2013

Me, at a table.

Here is a picture from Heroescon 2011.  Since then I have added 4 more issues of iNTERMEZZO, another issue of Dyslexic Cosmic, and The Journey of Brave Ulysses.  Also a lot of art prints, sketches, and I have expanded my line of Homeless Heroes sketches.

Saturday, August 10, 2013

Progress on issue 10

So I have been working on issue 10, and so far I have completed 5 pages of Huh's story and penciled 10 pages of the Bootooth Saga.  It has been moving along at a fair clip, really into the big story now.  The Bootooth Saga is the first real crossover of the separate storylines.

Really hope to have it done soon, I am excited about this one.  Plus it takes us to issue 11, which will be REALLY cool.

Monday, August 5, 2013

Persistance rather than inspiration

Sometime I find it necessary to push through and work on something when I don't feel very creative.  Because inspiration can take too long.  In those times, the work inspires the creativity, instead of the other way around.

Saturday, August 3, 2013

Picture of Huh

Huh is a cosmic Polar bear Superhero that I created in 1990 (way back when I was a youngster).  I was waiting in a line for a few hours very early in the morning.  In that sleep deprived state I saw a face in the pattern of the concrete.  I thought "Hey, that looks like a bear's face.  But wearing a mask."

The cartoon light bulb went off over my head and Huh was born.  He went through a few changes, originally I envisioned him as green, but he has played a part in all the iNTERMEZZO stories.  Originally the comic started with him and his origin and went from there.  It changed a bit and began his story in issue 7 (after the Alleviators introduction), but he is still a focal point to the book.  I've got big plans for that bear.

Wednesday, July 31, 2013

Even fortune cookies are against me

Wendy and I had Chinese food for lunch. After she finished she opened her fortune cookie and it read "You love challenge." I thought that was appropriate.
She opened the second of three cookies and it read "Executive ability is prominent in your make up" and I thought that was also very appropriate.

When I opened my cookie it read "The weather is wonderful"

I think that's the Chinese equivalent of "Bless your heart"

Tuesday, July 30, 2013

Rob Con aftermath

So I went to Bristol TN/VA with my wife Wendy. I am starting to believe that Bristol is a mystical Brigadoon type city and the only way to enter is by driving through a torrential rainstorm.  Every time we go it rains so hard you can't see where you are going and then Boom, there's Bristol.

It was an ok show for me sales wise, but I met some good people and saw some I haven't seen in a while.
This also has the distinction of being the first con I've attended where the power went out. A room full of comic geeks who peruse through comics by cellphones, lightsabers and sonic screwdrivers.  That was fantastic.

The road trip with Wendy was the best part of the weekend. We enjoy the time with nothing else to get in the way.

But now it is back to the everyday grind, hopefully I will get to another show soon.  Until then I am working on issue 10, a family portrait where everyone is an Avenger, a grant proposal, and sketches.  Just a few things.

Sunday, July 21, 2013

Great 1 day show, its not Comicon but it will do for me (for now)

So, no I did not go to San Diego.  It is funny how many people who are not regular comic readers have asked me if I was going to San Diego for Comicon.  Its nice that it has pierced the public's perception so that I don't have to explain what a comic book convention is so often.

But I did go to a convention in Winston Salem Saturday.  Had a good trip with a friend of mine, talked to a lot of good people, and sold a good amount of stuff.  And it was a wide variety of stuff is what makes me happy; comics, sketches, prints, and other art/ crafty stuff .  I met a lot of different types of people who wanted to give my stuff a try, it was very encouraging.

Thank you Winston Salem, Jay and Eddie for putting on the show, Burke Street Comics for the words of encouragement, Rick Fortenberry just cause it was good to see you, and the Hobby Shop of Wilson for sharing the space.

NEXT weekend is  Rob Con in Bristol, TN.  I have the rather new sensation of needing to replenish my stock on some things. How cool is that?

Thursday, July 18, 2013

Comic book show

And here are the details for the Winston Salem show.  The day I got to visit the comic shops in Winston really made me think that the area must have a great fan base. 3 shops in the same general area, a lot of times you are lucky to fins 1.  I saw Burke St Comics, Ssalefish, and the third (which was closed) is by the guys who are putting on this show, so I am looking forward to meeting them.  It must be nice to be a fan in that area, I grew up just south of there and when our comic shop closed I would go to the Heroes Aren't Hard to Find when they had a store in Winston.  Good Times.

Wednesday, July 17, 2013

Comic Show in Winston Salem

Woohoo! Comic Book show!

Haven't done a Winston Salem show in a long time, chomping at the bit for this.  Really need a day full of comics.

If you read this and see me at the show, walk over and say "Zero is my hero" and win a prize.

Work is... well work.  So I need a day of comic book fans, and stuff for sale I'll never be able to afford.  I will have oodles of prints, iNTERMEZZO 1-9, Dyslexic Cosmic 1 & 2, and The Journey of Brave Ulysses for sale.

Friday, July 12, 2013

Posers

I heard it in reference to the whole fangirl/ poser debate. So let me get this straight, more women are showing interest in geek culture, reading comics, watching geek culture movies, and dressing in sexy outfits at cons, and what does the geek (troll) community do?  Criticize them for not liking it enough.  Chastise them for only showing a passing interest and discourage them from developing a real appreciation for it by making "real fans" look like tools.

Old man time, let me tell you how things were in my day.  I remember my first comic book convention, Heroescon sometime in the late 80s.  It was A LOT smaller than it is now, but at the time I felt overwhelmed.  Buying everything I could (which wasn't nearly everything I wanted) and just generally soaking in what was to be the culture of my life, my people, my passion, and cementing the goal of where I wanted to be and what I wanted to be doing. 
But there was something I noticed, that I didn't care for.  I was the youngest person in the room (or at least it felt like it).  A room full of older white guys; who all loved comics like I loved comics, but there was no diversity.  Hell, they probably thought I was a poser.  It didn't discourage my love for comics, but it made it feel a little more isolating to be a comic geek.
In the years since then, comic culture has exploded in all directions.  Go to Heroescon now (or a large show in your area) and what you will see is nothing like my first show.  There are younger people, tiny kids, all races, women of all ages in much greater numbers.  And that is on both sides of the table, artists and fans. 

It makes me feel like that community that I became a part of is sharing its passion on such a scale that the people in that room (I think it was 1987) couldn't imagine. 
I hope they feel like I do, that this is great.  That all of these different people with different tastes, and different levels of enthusiasm would be part of this subculture.  More people are getting interested because they are seeing what we saw all along, that this is cool stuff.  And we can agree on stuff we like, and disagree about stuff we just don't like(yeah, I'm looking at you Manga) and its all good.  We don't all have to be the same kind of Geek to be a part.

So to all those who feel the need to separate the real fans from the posers, I think you are missing an opportunity.

And if it ever comes to pass that someone walks up to me at a convention, wearing a costume of one of my characters, but you tell me that "well, I just like the costume" or "I haven't read it. " I will  still be thrilled that you took the time to do it and picked my character; and you will get SO MUCH free stuff.

Sunday, July 7, 2013

Backdrop question

Looking to design a backdrop for comic book conventions.  I have worked up a few designs. If you have a favorite, let me know.


Monday, July 1, 2013

Random Observation

Does anyone else think that Hashtag sounds like a drug dealer on an old 70's police show?

Just the random kind of stuff that goes through my mind.

Sunday, June 30, 2013

New/Old Huh comic pages

Huh the Cosmic Polar Bear (introduced in issue 8 of iNTERMEZZO) is a character I have had in my head since 1990.  I originally started the story of iNTERMEZZO with his origin but later made the changes to the timeline I have been following in the comics that are published (and available for purchase on Indyplanet.com). It has allowed me to change things as I go, or in the case of issue 9 take art directly from the past and include it.  That makes me happy to see it again, and it helps me get the next issue done faster.

Issue 10 will include more artwork from 1996-1997, but this time I have altered those pages a bit. I took panels and rearranged them so that I could fit the next chapter of Huh originally done in 10 pages and fit it into 5.  I think there was room and pacing that allowed it to be adjusted, and I think the end result is quite nice and lead to some great pages. I finished them yesterday, here is one.

Monday, June 24, 2013

stuff

Had a busy week or so. Worked on some artwork, a family portrait for a friend of mine who wanted everyone to look like Avengers.  That looks nice. Some conceptual artwork for the return of a comic convention I used to help put on back in the day.  Dreamcon did shows in Raleigh NC and it looks like the son of two of the original promoters is bringing it back. It looks very promising and I am helping where I can. It is slated for a return in the spring of 2014.

My scanner died a few days ago, my day off to be exact. Its a Mustek 11x17 inch scanner that is really a great resource.  I was all jazzed to work on a bunch of stuff and it was gone. I had to reload the software every so often to use it and that slowly became reload the software every single time I used it. But that stopped working last Tuesday.  There was screaming and gnashing of teeth.  But Saturday I downloaded the files from Mustek (the company who made the scanner) thinking that would fix it.  It didn't. I tried several different things, several different ways but nothing worked. Then suddenly it did. I wasn't doing anything and nothing should have happened but it did. So me and my zombie scanner are back in business.

Coming soon is my next show in Winston Salem NC on July 20th. Its my first time there for a show in quite a while. Got lots of new stuff too.

Tuesday, June 11, 2013

Post Heroescon

I am tired.

Heroescon was long and exhausting but at the same time, it went by too fast and I didn't have enough time.
I had a pretty good weekend, much better than my last Heroescon experience (not as good as I would have liked, but still good).  I sold quite a few art prints and some original stuff, but not a lot of comics.  That is disappointing more than anything else, but I think it was still a positive experience.

I saw Joseph and Matthew, contributors to Dyslexic Cosmic 2, I gave them complimentary copies and got to talk to them a while.  And a lot of faces I have gotten to know over the past several years doing these shows.

It is very inspiring, intimidating, encouraging, discouraging, and energizing.

I didn't get to buy as much as I would have liked (but that would take winning the lottery).

The next show is a one day convention in Winston Salem on July 20th.  It will be my first time there, so that will be a new experience.

Wednesday, June 5, 2013

HEROESCON!!!

What's that you say, Heroescon is coming?  I was unaware...

Yes I know I have been all about some Heroescon lately, but I missed it last year.  This was the first convention I went to as a teenager (way back in the day when it was a lot smaller) and it was the first convention I set up as an artist (except for Free Comic Book Day here in Wilson), so it has a very Home Team feel for me.

Add to the fact that it is a three day show, I have only been able to do one other show yet this year, and have had all this week off from work.  So yeah, I am really jazzed about this show.

Lots of stuff I will be displaying...
9 issues of iNTERMEZZO
6 different prints for sale
2 issues of Dyslexic Cosmic
New comic The Journey of Brave Ulysses
bunches of homeless heroes sketches
So come on down to see me. 
Say the secret phrase "The Funk of Forty Thousand Years" and win a prize

Monday, June 3, 2013

Ka-Blam

Had an issue with a recent reprint of issue 5, contacted ka-blam and they are rectifying the problem and have already shipped out replacement copies of #5 (which is more than I asked them to do).  I am always very pleased with their customer service, and cannot recommend them enough for your print on demand comic needs.

After my first experience with an online printer went horribly wrong (Ahem, Comixpress) they are a joy to work with.

(Comixpress recently announced they were going out of business... Aaahhhh, schadenfreude).

Friday, May 31, 2013

New Comic

Its not a new iNTERMEZZO or DYSLEXIC COSMIC, this is a stand alone one shot project that is completely different than anything else I have ever done.

Finally someone looks at the Odyssey and asks that burning question that no one has dared to ask.

What if Ulysses was a wiener dog?
Now available at Indyplanet.com.  The shipment of my comics from Ka-Blam is on the way and I will have copies at any conventions I attend, starting with Heroescon.

Tuesday, May 28, 2013

Wendy

Wendy is going on a business trip today and won't be home until late tomorrow night.

What I think will happen... I'll get a lot of stuff done and spend the whole time drawing and/or writing.

What probably will happen... I'll sit, watch TV, Facebook, and generally feel anxious about it until she gets back.

Usually I get some things done I plan to do, but not nearly as many as I imagine. 
The comic obsession (and it has been growing because of Heroescon, my apologies to my friends who have to put up with the Heroescon plans, and me showing them everything I am working on for it) gets it focus stolen when Wendy is not at home.  I keep thinking that I need to be doing something but have to focus to get it done. 

Saturday, May 25, 2013

Wednesday, May 22, 2013

Heroescon Location

I (along with my friends) will be in a booth space at Heroescon!  That is 10x10 feet of all the cool stuff we can cram inside.

We have booth #320.  This is undoubtedly the best location I have had at Heroescon.  I hope the placement towards the front/ center of the room will get a lot of eyes and hands checking out some Bear Butt Comics!

Monday, May 20, 2013

IN Case You Were Wondering...

I did NOT win the lottery over the weekend.  So Alex Ross will NOT be doing the art for the next issue of iNTERMEZZO.  If that changes I will let you know.

Tuesday, May 14, 2013

Heroescon is coming!

I will be set up at Heroescon this year (I missed last year because of work, grrr).  I will be there with two artist friends of mine; Stacy and her leather masks who does a lot of shows with me and Jason, a sculpture and steampunk costumer who did the last Heroescon with us.  Both of them have beautiful work. 
We will NOT be along the wall in the small press area.  We have chipped in to get a booth in the main area of the action. I think that will really get us to where we will be noticed and easy to find.

I am working on another new art print for the show.  I have been doing a lot of those lately and they have some very funny stuff.  Be sure to stop by and check them out.

Be sure to stop by and check out my new comics as well.  By showtime I will have 9 issues of iNTERMEZZO, 2 issues of DYSLEXIC COSMIC and a stand alone story called THE JOURNEY OF BRAVE ULYSSES (which is so much different than anything else I have ever done). More on it when the book is back from Ka-Blam, my printer who is fantastic to work with.

Sunday, May 12, 2013

Number 2...

 
So, if this is something that becomes a possibility, would you be interested?

Friday, May 10, 2013

Thought for the day

The nice thing about facebook is that you get to keep up with people you never get to see anymore.  you also get to keep up with the people you only see once or twice a year, and remember why you only see them once or twice a year.

Wednesday, May 8, 2013

Days off, road trips and comic book stores.

For my day off yesterday I went to Winston Salem, NC with my wife (who was going for business).  While she was in her meeting I went around to every comic book store I could find.

In all I found 5, but one was closed.  I dropped off copies of iNTERMEZZO and DYSLEXIC COSMIC for them to peruse and pass around.  They all were genuinely nice and all seemed interested.  I was quite happy, that is a day well spent.

And of course I bought stuff everywhere I went.  Here is a pic.
 
Burke street comics was my first stop.  Had a great conversation about Avengers and a con I had done with him earlier, hope to be back there soon.  Bought some old Defenders and Captain America comics.
 
Ssalefish was next, got an old Adventures into the Unknown comic (love the sort of stuff you can't find anymore, classic sci fi and the like) and The Metal Men (who are just fun characters that don't get used enough.
 
Went to Infinity Comics, but they were closed.  Darn.  But it looks like they will be having a convention soon, Yay.
 
In Greensboro Wendy and I went to Parts Unknown which had a lot of cool books that I could go broke on very quickly.  Hardcover art books and the like, very cool stuff, nice store.  Picked up The Death of Captain Marvel, which I have always wanted and an EC Comic reprint (again, cool old stuff).
 
The last store was ACME comics, that is a nice, big store with a lot of stuff.  Got a Marvel team up book and a Brave and the Bold where Batman and Plastic Man team up to save Christmas (cannot get any better than that).  And the big prize was a Captain Marvel comic ...not Shazam, not the Kree guy, but an obscure book that used the name in between. Since they have characters named Dr. Strange, and Dr. Fate I assume they had no fear of litigation (hiding in a basement perhaps).
 
So that was my day.  And what a good one it was.
 

Friday, May 3, 2013

Dyslexic Cosmic 2

A new issue of runaway trains of thought!  This issue features art by Matthew D. Smith and  Joseph T. Rentschler, and the writing of myself and Esko Mason (who also appears in live action in the lead story).  I wrote a bunch of stuff, did the photo work and the cover.

Very Pleased.  Soon to be available on Indyplanet.com and available at Free Comic Book Day at the Hobby Shop in Wilson NC tomorrow (May 4th)!

Wednesday, May 1, 2013

Oops

I just found out that the bearbuttcomics website is down.  Apparently I missed the timeframe to renew it.  I will get this handled as quickly as I can.  Just a big screw up on my part, not going anywhere.  I'm not giving up on this yet.

Thursday, April 25, 2013

Tragedies

As I have written on here a few times in the past, for several years I worked with a children's theatre group designing and building sets, stage lighting, sound etc.  For the first time since I have been involved one of those children has died.

I guess he was no longer technically a child, he was in college, and even when I knew him he was exceptionally mature. It was a freak accident while walking in the woods.  I am a bit shaken at this.  It had been a couple of years since I had seen him, and I didn't even have him on Facebook.  But I remembered him fondly, and he was the sort of person who had amazing potential and attitude.

Just a sad event.  And I feel pretty powerless to help those who are more deeply affected.

Monday, April 22, 2013

FREE COMIC BOOK DAY

Free Comic Book Day is less than 2 weeks away.  I am finishing up a new art print, getting ready to order a new comic called "The Journey of Brave Ulysses" (more on that later), and I have an idea for another art print that I hope to get done in time for FCBD (and Heroescon after that!).

I will be set up at The Hobby Shop in Wilson, NC for FCBD, please stop by if you are in the area.  Should be a good time.  The Hobby Shop is in a new store that is very nice.


Its Monday (boo) but tomorrow is the Tuesday I have off every other week (Yay!).  I have lots of stuff I want to get done and ready for con season.

Will post more info when I get more cons scheduled.

Tuesday, April 16, 2013

Animated Battle of the Bands update

Update of Round 2. So far Bugs and Elmer are in the lead.

Sunday, April 7, 2013

POST CHARLOTTE COMICON POST

A truly remarkable show for me!  It was my 2nd most successful show ever (including 2 and 3 day shows)!  Only last years NCComicon was a better show for me, and it was a three day event.  I am stunned.  I am also a bit tired, but happy.

Saw a lot of people, some I have met before and some for the first time.  There were 1200 people through the doors, for a one day show.  Sometime you can do more in a smaller one day show than in those huge cons, because you can take your time.  Work your way around the room, check out the dealers and meet the artists before deciding with whom to spend your money.

I knew that I was really looking forward to this show, because I haven't done one in so long, but I wasn't expecting such a good day.  Thank you with deepest sincerity to the attendees of the show, other artists and writers, and of course Rick for putting the show on in the first place and all of his work to expand it.  It is obviously working.

If you haven't been to this show in Charlotte, go if you are able.  It is a great convention.

 

Monday, April 1, 2013

AAAAHHHHH.

Just sent off my latest comic to the printer.  Its a rare mix of contentment, excitement, and anxiety.  The life of an obsessed comic book artist.

Saturday, March 30, 2013

Charlotte Comicon

http://charlottecomicon.com

Here is a link to the convention I am attending on pril 7th!  My first of the year, and I need a comics fix.  It is a consistently good show and I am scared I may be building it up a little too much in my mind.

I have new comics, new art and new prints as well. 

Stop by and say hello.  Stop by and say "The Funk of Forty Thousand Years" and I will give you a prize.  If you can do a good Vincent Price voice and I will up the ante.

Tuesday, March 26, 2013

Our Town joke

Just finished doing tech work for a production of Our Town.  Thought of a joke, of course.  Here it is.

Monday, March 25, 2013

Motivation

I think that it is the single most important element in getting a comic book done (or anything, but I am being specific). Especially when you are self publishing and your motivation isn't money.

I'm not the best artist/writer out there, but I love what I do. Usually. A lot of times I can't stop myself from writing and drawing, but there are times when the motivation is hard to come by. Especially when its been a long time since a show, or I've had a bad show, etc. 

But I have met some talented people without the motivation to use it, and it irritates me. The thought that they do not use that skill, and waste the opportunity they can make for themselves.  They will die with a lot of unfinished pictures in their head. That makes me a little sad.

So, I am not the best out there, but I am out there. It is my accomplishment, and I am trying my darndest to be proud of it (but my low self esteem only permits so much).

Thank you, there it is.

Friday, March 22, 2013

Comics I am working on

I am very close to finishing work on a second installment on Dyslexic Cosmic.  It has some very new and different styles than you would normally see from me.  I have two artists who contributed their talent and I am excited with the bold and unique direction this issue will take.  I hope to have it off to Ka-Blam (my printer, a great group of people) by the end of the month.

I am also nearly done with the artwork for a stand alone story that is totally different than any other Bear Butt Comic to date.  Three more pages and a cover to go on this one.  I want to keep this under wraps a little longer, but soon.

Just so you don't think I am doing nothing but looking at cartoons all day for the Animated Battle of the Bands.

Tuesday, March 19, 2013

Friday, March 15, 2013

More Animated Battle of the Bands

In this match up...
THE POWERPUFF GIRLS vs. TOM AND JERRY


http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XdBDbGEdyEM

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qfskgQ6Z_bA

You can comment here to vote or go to the Animated Battle of the Bands Facebook page.  This battle will be decided in one week.

Wednesday, March 13, 2013

Next in the Animated Battle of the Bands

Here is the latest upset in round 1.  Eep Opp Ork Ah Ah defeated by just one vote.

Saturday, March 9, 2013

ROUND 1 OF THE ANIMATED BATTLE OF THE BANDS

The first four battles of the Animated Battle of the Bands will be ending in the next few days (the first one is tonight).  Be sure to vote or your favorite can be defeated in round 1.  The matchups are...
THE ARCHIES vs. DEXTER'S LABORATORY
THE GROOVY GOOLIES vs. BUGS BUNNY AND ELMER FUDD
JOSIE AND THE PUSSYCATS vs. FOSTER'S HOME FOR IMAGINARY FRIENDS
and
THE JETSONS vs. BATMAN THE BRAVE AND THE BOLD

Friday, March 8, 2013

Sneak peek

Here is an image that will play a part in a new Dyslexic Cosmic story.  Not saying how or why just yet.

Wednesday, March 6, 2013

Animated Battle of the Bands fourth matchup in round 1

For this matchup we have
THE JETSONS (specifically Jet Screamer with George Jetson on drums)
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=suafkk2vWNI

vs
BATMAN THE BRAVE AND THE BOLD (Specifically Black Canary and the Music Meister)
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iZcYlHUgoaQ&list=PLAEB5D9C967D77846

You can vote for this, or any other battle by posting on a thread here, or by the Animated Battle of the Bands facebook page.

Monday, March 4, 2013

Back to the comics

My first comic convention of the year is scheduled to be April 7th in Charlotte, NC.  It's Rick Fortenberry's show and that is always a great one.  They moved to a new spot for the last show of his I went to and I really liked it.  Its been eating at me that I haven't done a comic show yet this year, so it will be great to get to do one.  I will have issue 9 and some new art and prints.  I hope to do more soon and get ready for Heroescon which I am eager to get back to.

Also doing work on some other comics projects before diving into issue 10.  And already doing some planning for 11.  It feels like the story is gaining momentum and taking me along with it.

Third Battle in Round 1

The third matchup in round one features...
JOSIE AND THE PUSSYCATS...

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vYZ4t5xQ8TU


 vs. FOSTER'S HOME FOR IMAGINARY FRIENDS

http://www.facebook.com/l.php?u=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.youtube.com%2Fwatch%3Fv%3DzmeBhR7mE0M&h=eAQG0vY44

You can vote by posting here or by joining the facebook page for Animated Battle of the Bands.

Sunday, March 3, 2013

Brackets for The Animated Battle of the Bands

Here is the line up of the Animated Battle of the Bands.  I think they are a lot of fun.  Vote away.  Just comment on this thread or like the page on Facebook and do it there.
The second matchup in round 2
THE GROOVY GOOLIES VS. BUGS BUNNY AND ELMER FUDD!

You have one week from this post to vote on this battle, other battles will post in that time, but they will all run seperate from each other for one week.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UjykWj26yxA The Groovy Goolies

vs.
http://www.facebook.com/l.php?u=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.youtube.com%2Fwatch%3Fv%3DLHivHuPFBqA&h=iAQFYSraH

Bugs and Elmer in Whats Opera Doc



Saturday, March 2, 2013

First Animated Battle of the Bands

In the first round we have THE ARCHIES VS. DEXTER'S LABORATORY

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=H2bGQogovfA  Here is a link to the Archies and

http://www.facebook.com/l.php?u=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.youtube.com%2Fwatch%3Fv%3Dvst6DXDnzKw&h=lAQFKVzoF here is a link to Dexter's Laboratory.

Listen and vote who wins this first ANIMATED BATTLE OF THE BANDS!


Ahh, the stuff that makes me happy.

And now for something completely different.


Check out a new page on Facebook I started for an Animated Battle of the Bands.  Just weirdness that takes up room in my head, now to make room for more comics.
 
 
I feel these selections give a lot to choose from, it is heavy to the 60s and 70s when a lot of cartoons made their characters a band for no good reason but there are newer groups in there as well for a balance list.  If you feel that a worthy band (or musical number, some are just singers from a particular episode) is left off the list, then post them, and if there is enough interest they can be added to the Wildcard Division or the Wildcard Multiplication.

 Please include a link to a song (not a theme song, one in the actual story... I love "Hong Kong Phooey, number 1 superguy" as much as the next guy, but that will be a different vote for another time).  A link to a song is very important, some bands were not included because I couldn't find anything other than the theme song, or they were moved to the Wildcard Division.

 Also please stick to examples where the characters involved are the band, simply having songs playing in the background of a chase scene are not eligible, a la Scooby Doo (love Scooby, and they were good songs, but again it is not what we are going for).

Friday, March 1, 2013

NOW ON SALE!

I have just received Issue 9 and it is on sale at indyplanet!  This is a big issue for me and it looks great!  My older art looks so much better than I was expecting.  I am so excited!

http://indyplanet.com/store/product_info.php?products_id=8158

Check it out and order a copy (or six)!

Saturday, February 23, 2013

HUH!

Huh, the cosmic polar bear introduced in issue 8.