News From The SurfaceWorld

"It's all Groovy"!

2009-09-13T17:46:00.000-07:00

Hello again boys and girls,

I've been away busy as usual doing the usual 9 to 5 thing and then doing the usual drawing and preparing thing too.

Cool news is that I am finally on the brink of preparing my first creator owned project; "KUDU-MAN!" for it's scheduled Fall/2010 release. Before the official release of Issue #1 a special preview issue will be available to the public, Issue #0 will make it's debut at the next Orlando MegaCon in March of next year here in Orlando, Florida. The preview book will give readers a sneek peek into the world of this character with at least 10 pages from the first issue, some key character designs, pin-ups and character and creator bios.

The series will be published and distributed under the banner of my imprint company; "Groovy Graphics Press" which will be the official sponsor of all my creator owned products ranging from the graphic novels to merchandise items like posters, apparel and additional items.

After a redesigning of the font style and logo art I unveil the final design here. (above)

The new imprint and KUDU-MAN! will also be given there own website which will be connected with my Surface Art Studios website but separate, I hope to have it up and running at least in a preliminary stage by November of this year so stay tuned... I will be promoting this subject heavily on the net and comics forums throughout cyberspace.

"KUDU-MAN!" will also be available for pre-ordering through this website along with other Groovy Graphics Press products....believe me...there is much more to come in the near future from the Surface Art Studios and Groovy Graphics Press...till then, stay groovy my brothers and sisters and thanks to all for there continued visits and support...

...peace out ;)

film review: "District 9"

2009-08-16T10:26:00.000-07:00

"They live among us..."

It has been a while since a film has peaked my interest and after first seeing the teaser trailer and following TV spots, "District 9" accomplished just that so I said "hell, why not?"

I and a friend went to go check it out at the local cinema over the weekend and to cover my response in one general statement; "I was mildly disappointed!"

The film is an updated version of the 1988 Graham Baker hit "Alien Nation" which starred; James Caan, Mandy Patinkin, and Terrence Stamp, and like "Nation", "District 9" is an expose of a what if? scenario...what if over a million alien creatures were stranded on our beloved little planet? How would we deal with it? Where as "Alien Nation" takes place in a Los Angeles of the not so distant future, this new film by director Neill Blomkamp("Alive in Josburg") takes place in Johannesburg/South Africa an interesting choice considering that republics recent history. Blomkamp(a native South African) is well acquainted with the current and past living conditions of his country and he depicts it well on screen and the choice of basing this story there was a refreshing one although in my opinion...a bit late! This film would have hit home with much more resonance had it been made about 20 years ago-the message more profound.

The film is directed and shot in a "documentary style" motif and well executed, the effects are very effective and by midway through the film you almost do not register the effects-they seem real, even the alien "prawns", which they are nicknamed by the resident humans, for their similar appearance to the little Crustaceans, except these critters are immensely strong, agile, multi limbed, oh and they average around 6-7 feet tall. One of the main problems I had with the film were the aliens themselves, their appearance was OK and their speech(a series of clicks and clops) it was the almost total lack of background detail or back story that I found annoying, this and other obvious "holes" in the story ultimately led me to give this film a reluctant "thumbs up".

The film is cast with relative unknowns at least to American audiences, but all performances were well done and convincing, the lead role of the film (Wikus Van Der Merwe) went to first time actor Sharlto Copley who handled the role well despite it's importance and length-we see the film and are shown the story through his eyes;he plays a clueless, naive process worker for the local immigration organization whose main task is dealing with the "Alien" neighbors, when he is assigned on a dangerous mission to District 9(the area designated for the alien refugees) to "re-locate" the alien residents to a new, more secure location...all hell breaks loose and things quickly deteriorate. Not only do you have conflicts with the Aliens but also local warlords, gangsters and the all too cliched shady government element who are, as always depicted in such films ,on an alterior mission to exploit and utilize alien technology and weaponry. The film looks good with effects done by Producer Peter Jackson(LOTR trilogy, King Kong) effects company WETA. The documentary take on the film presents a shaky and at times disorienting journey through this tale so do pay attention to the details-I can't recommend this as a permanent addition to a DVD collection but for a night out at the movies or a netflix rental-check it out!

"A Monstrous undertaking"...

2009-07-05T08:55:00.000-07:00

"Greetings SURFACEDWELLERS...."

Been a while since I posted last, been busy workin for "the man", paying bills, and generally just trying to stay out of trouble!

UPDATE TIME;

* "KUDU-MAN!" my first creator owned project will be making its debut appearance at next years MegaCon in Orlando, Florida in the form of a special preview book which will be available in limited quantity to the public-it will be a sneek peek into the upcoming series launch coming in the Fall/2010.

* "Billy the Monster Hunter"; I am nearing completion on the layouts and pencils for the 2nd issue of the new series by creator Ramsey Rusef with colors by V.Vinson, the issue is scheduled for a late Summer/2009 release. The final cover art (featured above) was a bit of a "monstrous undertaking" mainly with the effects on the lightning and lighting. In this issue young Billy Hunter learns the origin of his powers and his hammer when he comes face to face with none other than the Norse GOD of thunder himself...."THOR!"

* "BUBBA the Redneck Werewolf"; also just finished a full color poster featuring the popular cult comics character created by Mitch Hyman. The poster is now available at the Scare Tactix Graphix website http://www.scaretactixgraphix.com/ ,you'll find it in the merchandise section under posters.

* "A Tale of REM"; I am continuing to develop my graphic fantasy novel, still working out on the character designs and early drafts of the storyline which has proven to be an even more challenging task than "KUDU-MAN"!

* "HAPPY BIRTHDAY AMERICA!"; The great experiment turned 233 years old over the weekend, despite wars, political angst, corrupt bureaucrats, and dire financial straits we have still managed to hang around...here's to world peace and freedom! :)

Well, that's it for now kids, gotta get back to the old drawing board and earn my keep. Keep in touch for further updates here and at my sites at; http://www.surfaceartstudios.com/ and http://www.surfaceart.deviantart.com/

peace ;) Shawn Surface/SURFACE ART STUDIOS.

"Con Game"

2009-05-19T20:51:00.000-07:00

Greetings "SURFACEDWELLERS",
Just a few lines to inform any who may wish to attend, about a brand new convention here in Orlando, Florida.
The 1st annual "Creature Con" is actually the off shoot of another convention, the "Repticon", a convention for pet owners specializing in all things Reptilian, and other exotic pets. The Creature-Con will be a small multi media event featuring merchandise, movies, comics and much more.
The people who are organizing the event approached me and asked if I wanted to attend, they were even nice enough to extend me a FREE table to their event, and me being the poor, humble artist that I am...who was I to refuse!
As a gesture of my gratitude for the invitation I designed a con poster for the event.(pictured) They will be available for attendees and visitors at the convention while they last.
"Creature-Con" will be held at the central Florida fairgrounds on the last weekend of May (30-31), to find out more about the upcoming convention visit the official site at; http://www.creaturecon.com/ .
I have also begun work on the next issue and a poster based on Ramsey Rusef''s series; "Billy the Monster Hunter" ,I will be doing the pencils while Vince Vinson will apply the colorwork. The next issue (#2) will be out by late summer/2009 and will be released through Scare Tactix Graphix http://www.scaretactixgraphix.com/ .
I am also wrapping up on the final pages of Robert Wawrzyniak's 12 part space epic; "SUPER-7", and a long overdue project called "Predator & Prey" by Paul Monsky.
I am also working on a special "BUBBA the Redneck Werewolf" poster for creator Mitch Hyman and Scare Tactix Graphix, it will also be available later this summer.
I will also be attending the 1st annual "Mini-MegaCon" which will be held here in Orlando in August, I will be sharing a table with "BUBBA the Redneck Werewolf" writer and creator Mitch Hyman...as always at my convention appearances I will be available for signings and for custom convention sketches so if you plan on attending these events while in town, by all means stop by my spot and say "Hi".
-till next time sports fans...Peace! ;)

film review: "STAR TREK"

2009-05-09T21:52:00.000-07:00

I went and did something that I originally said I wasn't going to do....I went and saw the new "STAR TREK" movie.

I fully intended on not seeing it, mainly due to my closed mindedness to the possibilities that someone other than the late great Gene Roddenberry (father of the "Star Trek" universe) could successfully re-envision the all too familiar and traditional world of Trek....I WAS WRONG!

I would not go so far as to say that I am a "trekker" but I am a fan of the show, especially TOS (the original series 1966-1969) I grew up with that all too familiar crew of the starship Enterprise with the now iconic names like Kirk, Spock, McCoy, Scott, Sulu, and Uhura. So when I first heard a few years back that Paramount was re-launching the franchise with different faces I was skeptical to say the least, I consider myself a bit of a purist when it comes to certain things and "Star Trek" is one of those things, in my narrow perception there is only one Kirk(William Shatner), one Spock(Leonard Nimoy), and one "Bones" McCOY(Deforest Kelley). I had seen the aggressive ad campaign for the new film, seen the trailers and was initially impressed with the special effects work, so after much inner debating I re-considered and chose to see the film and give it an open minded look...and also to write this review of it.

Director J.J.Abrams (Lost) has boldly gone where no director has gone before, successfully directing a fresh new look into the Star Trek mythos and re-introducing to the world both young and old to the gallant crew of the starship "Enterprise".

As for the crew, the faces have changed but the names stay the same; the cast comprises of some top young talent some familiar , some not so...

Chris Pine(Smokin Aces) portrays the young James "Tiberius" Kirk, the man who would be Captain is played as a rather cocky, independent and rebellious type with a knack of getting into trouble.

Zachary Quinto(Heroes) plays the enigmatic and at times way too logical Mr. Spock, half Vulcan/half Human he is the picture of discipline and logic while within himself he is at constant odds at controlling his mixed pedigree's turbulent emotions.

Karl Urban(Chronicles of Riddick) is Dr. Leonard "Bones" McCoy, a gruff doubting individual whose faith and trust are lacking in both the individuals around him and the technologies that they control.

Zoe Saldana(Pirates of the Caribbean) is communications officer Nyota Uhura, the beautiful and bright lieutenant who carries a secret.

...and the crew is rounded out by actors Simon Peeg(Shaun of the Dead) as Montgomery Scott ,and John Cho(Harold & Kumar) as helmsman Hikaru Sulu.

All the principal actors turn in fine performances in this action packed film. The story(written by Robert Orci and Alex Kurtzman) is a time travel adventure with the Romulans as the antagonists, featuring Eric Bana(Hulk, Troy) as the main baddie, a bald tattooed cat by the name of Nero hell bent on revenge against those who cost him everything ,his life, his family, his world.

Leonard Nimoy reprises the role of Mr. Spock albeit an aged version from the future, and the character of Spock both old and new is pivotal to the storyline. Bruce Greenwood(Nowhere Man) plays Captain Christopher Pike, the original Captain of the Enterprise and mentor to the young Jim Kirk.

But ye be warned for this is not your daddy's STAR TREK, whereas the original spirit and flavor of the classic series is intact with this, the 11th and latest cinematic adventure, there are some subtle visual and character changes to be noticed...In my opinion the big character treatment belongs to a rather minor crew member, helmsman Pavel Chekov(Anton Yelchin) who has been transformed into a confident and quite intelligent character who saves the ship and crew on at least two instances in the film from certain destruction...a far cry from the bumbling uncertain young navigator originally portrayed in the series by Walter Koenig.

Some surprising acting choices are evident in the roles of Spock's parents; Ben Cross plays his father Sarek while Winona Ryder portrays Amanda, his human mother...I guess my biggest reservation visually is shared by many in the re-design of the Enterprise herself, while retaining the general look of the original design it has been given a "hot-rod" treatment, it looks like its on steroids! While I begrudgingly accepted the new look of the ships interiors with the exception of some of the lower decks which resembled a factory floor or at times a plumbers nightmare ,I draw the line at messing with the external look of the now legendary profile of the Constellation Class Starship, especially when you consider that other original ship designs from the series like the shuttle craft were virtually untouched.

All in all the film was acceptable, a lot of action, fine performances turned in by all and with the somewhat disappointing villain and at times muddled storyline it still works on the big screen, and with a few minor exceptions I think the old man(Gene Roddenberry) would have liked it.

The film is dedicated in memory to the series and franchise creator Gene Roddenberry and his late wife Majel Barrett (#1, Nurse Chapel) who re-recorded the ships computer voice for the new film shortly before her death.

-live long and prosper/peace ;)

Film review; "X-Men Origins: Wolverine"

2009-05-04T13:39:00.000-07:00

I took a little break from reality this past weekend and went and saw the latest Hollyweird adaptation of a comic book character, the Marvel mutant killing machine we all know and love; Wolverine.

The film has been surrounded with the usual hype and even some controversy over the pre release of a pre post production print onto the internet by a now former employee of 20th Century Fox. Was the film worth losing a great paying job over by leaking it out....in two words! HELL NO!

I feel even a bit ripped off and I saw the movie for FREE, hell I even had a FREE bag of popcorn complete with artificially butter flavored sludge to go with my moviegoing experience.

The powers that be at Hollywood missed the mark yet again as far as producing a viewable comic adaptation on film; "Wolverine" joins recent misses like "Constantine", "Catwoman", and dare I say it..."Watchmen" as the latest in a series of less than satisfactory adaptations.

"Wolverine" played effectively by Hugh Jackman(Australia, the Fountain, X-Men) tells of the early years of the claw wielding Cannuck and his big brother Victor (Liev Schreiber-Sphere,Defiance, Manchurian Candidate) who would later become the maniacal killer "Sabertooth", after surviving a rathger angst ridden and somewhat traumatic childhood the brothers travel the world together for quite sometime, well over a 100 years (their mutant ability is a healing factor which also gives their lifespan an amazing longevity), they have experienced many things together, especially wars, they have served in every major American War starting with the Civil war and leading up to Vietnam. Over the years the brothers grow farther apart ,while Victor grows to embrace his more feral nature and taste for blood the younger Wolverine has grown tired of all the killing and death with which he has witnessed and participated in.

The films biggest disappointment for me was the lack of a real story, and way too many supporting characters, there was a big thing to boost this among comic fans by saying X-Men faves "Gambit"(Taylor Kitsch-Friday Night Lights), and "Emma Frost"(Tahnya Tozzi) would appear in the film, alas they were mere cameos and did not really play a pivotal part of the storyline. Logan and Victor end up being part of a merc squad led by a Colonel with a hidden agenda; William Stryker(Danny Huston-30 Days of Night) ,the squad consists of mutants as well including "Deadpool"(Ryan Reynolds), "Bolt"(Danny Monaghan), "Wraith"(Will I Am), and a fellow who will later become; "the Blob"(Kevin Durand). Things get very nasty with this group quick and that's where Wolverine says enough is enough and leaves the group.

Stryker takes exception to this and plots to get him back...no matter what!

I can go ahead and tell you the entire plot of the film but I have become weary of even doing this, the film has its bright spots though, especially in the acting category. Jackman does a great job at portraying the title character, he should have it down by now( its his 4th time playing the character), and Liev Schrieber plays a convincing psychopath in the making in "Sabertooth".

The film tries to cover a lot of ground in just 2 hours where I think it would have been more effective if it had just concentrated on the relationship of the two brothers, the other characters and subplots were just too much for me and detracted from what was the most important part of the film...the main character-Wolverine!

The film is full of action and was well directed by Gavin Hood despite the fact that he had to work with a rather fragmented screenplay written by David Benioff and Skip Woods, yes, it took two guys to write this film! The film is also rated PG-13 when considering the characters and subject matter should have easily been rated R, but never underestimate Hollywood's gift for catering to the masses.

You want a more effective portrayal of Wolverine on screen- watch "X-MEN 2" again...

-peace :)

"FX; the day after..."

2009-04-20T18:10:00.000-07:00

Greetings Surface Dwellers...

I have survived yet another convention....but just barely!

Recently returned from the carnage that was FX International I can safely say that I have come out of it fairly unscathed albeit a bit bruised and fatigued.

FX is held annually here in the great "sunshine state",a venue highlighting the comics genre among other things (toys, merchandise, movies etc...), this year it celebrates it's 20th anniversary, a rare milestone indeed amongst such cons especially ones such as FX that have smaller turnouts compared to it's bigger brothers MegaCon, and DragonCon. I came into the convention showroom knowing this so in the end I was not disappointed, but that doesn't mean that I still wished my visit was more pleasant...and more profitable!

FX is a well organized and well run convention and has been for some years now, but unfortunately the convention Gods have not been kind as of late, despite it's professionalism, it's well trained staff and a rather diverse guest list of celebrities, artists, creators and writers FX has yet to shake off the large stigma that is MegaCon.

This year the organizers moved the event to April away from it usual January date(it was for some time the first Convention of the year), I can only surmise that this was done to help stimulate crowd numbers and to further separate itself from MegaCon (held in late February).

The schedule change did not help matters; it was held on the same weekend as the dreaded national tax deadline , that and the fact that this great nation of ours is going through a tough recession only compounded the situation. FX suffered one of the poorest opening day(Friday) turnouts that I have seen in recent memory for an established con , now I'll admit that I am not a well known artist, in fact I am more unknown than known, and this may come off as "sour grapes" to some who may read this and I'll be honest with you that I wish ,as all who ever have a table at such events, that I had a more financially rewarding weekend-who wouldn't want to make a profit or be better recognized and appreciated for their talents and profession?

Saturday is traditionally the busiest day for any convention, but much to FXs dismay Saturday was not much better, oh the crowds were much larger, and the events, panels, and special signings were plenty but a simple look in the eyes of most of the vendors, and artists attending would shatter that illusion.

I spoke with some creators and artists who were attending their first FX ,and they were a bit disappointed and they ,like most chalked up the poor attendance and sales to the current national financial crisis.

The more recognizable names in the biz on the majority did well but I spoke with a few and they too noticed the poor turnout. Now this report is not all doom and gloom ,there was a ray of sunshine amongst the clouds. I did get to meet up and talk with some old friends and some colleagues from cons I had not been able to attend lately, also had some first time meetings notably with veteran artists Michael Golden (Micronauts, The Nam), Frank Brunner (Man-Thing,Howard the Duck, Dr. Strange) and one of my favorites...Steve "the Dude" Rude(Nexus, the Moth), Steve and his wife Gina were patient and very kind with this one, for a moment, I felt like a "fanboy" again. I also got to meet with other artists like Sean "cheeks" Galloway( animated Spider-Man, Hellboy), Mike Perkins(Union Jack), Robert Atkins(G.I.Joe) ,and Jim Cheung (Avengers) among many others.

I did do quite a bit of signing myself, placing my "John Hancock" on some issues of "BUBBA; the Redneck Werewolf" ,and on copies of my latest release; "Billy the Monster Hunter", I even signed and sold a couple of copies of the limited print that I did for the convention. All in all FX proved to be more of a social gathering for me than anything ,although financially disappointing it was on the other hand rewarding in other aspects...FX is one of the events held in my "backyard", Orlando, Florida and I will most likely attend and have a table next year, at which time we can only hope that the national crisis has passed or at least improved along with the fortunes of FX International....

...till next time my friends, Peace ;)

"FX Bound..."

2009-04-10T21:55:00.000-07:00

Hello again SurfaceDwellers!,

Spring is in the air and with it a fresh new batch of oppurtunities lay ahead for this humble artist and his meager little studio aka; the house of "The Dragon".

I am but a few short pencilled pages away from finally finishing my duties on Robert Wawrzyniak's 12 part epic space adventure; "SUPER-7".

I am also nearing completion on pencils and inks for a small 16 page adventure entitled; "Predator & Prey" written by Paul Monsky. I have taken on a new assignment as well one I am not at liberty to go into too much detail about but I can say that it involves design and concept work for a promising new role playing property which will soon make its debut to gamers.

One of my more recent jobs, the recently printed & released "Billy the Monster Hunter" created by Ramsey Rusef and released by the good people at Scare Tactix Graphix has recieved some positive feedback thus getting the greenlight for a second issue.

As always I am continuing on the development of my first two creator owned projects; "KUDU-MAN"! and "A Tale of REM".

I am also attending what will most likely be my last major convention appearance for 2009, the upcoming "FX International Extravaganza". The annual event will be held here in Orlando, Florida this coming April 17th-19th...I will be on hand in "creators alley" with many other artists dilligently plying and promoting they're trade and talents. I will also be available for the usual commission sketches and signing copies of some of my past and present works, including "Billy" issues and of course the rare hard to find "BUBBA the Redneck Werewolf".

I will also have a limited supply of art prints available for purchase at an affordable price...this includes a special limited edition souvenir poster that I designed for the show (art pictured above) so if you find yourself in the area stop on by and look me up at the FX show.

To find out more about the upcoming event be sure to check them out at; www.fxshow.com.

I'll be back soon to give all interested a post con report on FX and I may have some pics to go with it as well so stay tuned kids...

...till next time, Peace... ;)

"the BIG CON!"

2009-02-18T12:28:00.000-08:00

Greetings "SurfaceDwellers",

It's that time of year again, convention season is once again upon us here and it is my sincerest hope to make it to some of them this year.

I am a confirmed guest at "Artists Alley" in two of my local cons (Florida); MegaCon-2009 (Feb 28-Mar-1) and the FX Extravaganza (Apr-17-19) both located here in Orlando Florida at the Orange County convention center .

I also hope to attend the annual Heroes Convention (Jun 19-21) in Charlotte, North Carolina.

So, if your in the area stop by and look me up ,I will have some limited edition prints of my work available , some issues of my most recent books which I illustrated like; "BUBBA; the Redneck Werewolf/Rumble in Romania" and "Billy the Monster Hunter" both still available from Scare Tactix Graphix http://www.scaretactixgraphix.com/. I will also, as always,be available for commissions drawing your favorite characters on request...all at an affordable price!

Here at the studio I am close to completing the final issue of Robert Wawrzyniak's 12 issue science fiction adventure; "SUPER-7" , its been a long time coming but finally the end is in sight, the epic series will end in a special double sized action packed issue. To read more on the upcoming series pay a visit to the official website at; http://www.kickasscomics.com/.

I am also at the early layout stage on a special "BUBBA;the Redneck Werewolf" poster that will be available soon...stay tuned for some special sneek peeks of the art as it develops.

In other developments from "the SURFACEWORLD"; I am nearing completion on writing the debut story arc on my first creator owned project; "KUDU-MAN!" Once completed I'll move onto the easy part...drawing it!

I am continuing to develop my long conceived fantasy "A Tale of REM" which will not be an ongoing series but a limited and eventually a graphic novel, this is a story that has been with me for quite some time now and its a relief to finally be at the stage now that I can seriously start work on it.

As always stay tuned for further developments, hope to see you at some upcoming conventions if funding allows ,if not ,just drop me a line here or contact me at; surfaceartstudios@yahoo.com

Hope to hear from you...

Peace,

Shawn Surface/SURFACE ART STUDIOS.

Film Review; "GRAN TORINO"

2009-01-12T20:04:00.000-08:00

A new year begins and with it a new crop of feature films ranging from romance to science fiction featuring the top stars of today and tomorrow.

But it is the return of a living legend to the big screen that has made my cinematic mouth water. He is among the last of the great American movie icons, a leading man who's career has spanned over 50 years, a career not only in acting but also including producing ,writing, and directing. He has given us such unforgettable characters like; Rowdy Yates, the man with no name, Will Munny and of course..."Dirty" Harry Callahan, and such unforgettable films like; "Flags of our Fathers"(2006), "Mystic River"(2003), "Million Dollar BABY"(2004) ,and "Unforgiven"(1992), I am speaking of none other than Clint Eastwood.

His latest venture which he wrote ,produced, and directed is "Gran Torino", one of his darkest films in which he has starred in since his academy award winning film..."Unforgiven".

Clint plays Walter Kowalski, a grizzled ,tough old Korean War veteran and retired auto worker living in suburban Detroit, recently widowed and estranged from his children and their families, he keeps to himself, spending his days sitting on his porch smoking his cigarettes and drinking beers observing with disdain the slow deterioration of his once proud and peaceful neighborhood.

Much to his chagrin his neighbors nearest to his residence is an extended Hmong family (Laos/Thai) who are noisy and disturbing, being a Korean War vet he has grown biased towards minorities over the years, especially those of Asian decent. Late one night Kowalski is awakened and discovers that someone is trying to steal his car, a prized possession...his 1972 Ford Gran Torino ( a souvenir from his many years on the assembly line at Ford motors), the wannabe car thief...one of his neighbors, a teenage kid by the name of Thao (Bee Vang), the shy teenager is actually a good kid but is being pressured into initiation by a local Hmong gang using strongarm tactics...Despite Kowalski's prejudicial thoughts he can't stand to see people bullied and pushed around so he decides to take action as only he knows how to do...with force!

Now if your going into this film expecting a typical "guns blazing" Clint Eastwood film...you may be dissapointed cause its not that kind of film, If I were to compare it to other films I would say it was a mix of "the Shootist"(John Wayne's final film/1976), "Death Wish"(Charles Bronson/1974") with a little "Finding Forrester"(Sean Connery/2000) mixed in for flavor.

The film is rather dark in tone but with some moments of humor but be warned ,some racially sensitive individuals may find the content objectionable but the film is primarily about race relations and the innacuracies and misunderstandings of bigotry and the damage that it can cause. Director Eastwood has cast first time unknown Hmong acors in most of the supporting roles...Ahney Her(who plays Sue Lor, Thao's sister), stands out among this group of unknowns, she turns in a believable, and strong supporting performance in the film.

Also starring in the film are; Christopher Carley( who plays reverend Janovich), John Carroll Lynch( who plays a local barber/friend-Martin), and also look for a performance by young Scott Eastwood (yes Clint's youngest boy) as Trey, he has a small role but memorable.

Eastwood directs from a screenplay by Dave Johnson based on a story by Nick Schenk.

The movie has a surprisingly shocking ending to it, one I am hesitant to reveal here but something happens in this film to the main character that hasn't happened in a Clint Eastwood film since way back to his feature "the Beguiled"(1971).

Nonetheless if you're an Eastwood fan like I am and have been over the years you'll be pleased with this, his latest cinematic adventure...it will "make your day"!

"Seasons Greetings"...

2008-12-19T21:15:00.000-08:00

Just a brief message to all who visit my little spot on the internet wishing all of you and your families a very happy and safe holiday season and a very Happy New Year/2009.

2009 will hopefully be a more peaceful and prosperous year than the one that preceeded it. Stay tuned for further updates from right here at the "House of the Dragon" including;

* Website updates including new artworks in the gallery and convention announcements

* Project updates and announcements including;

-"Super-7"

-"Bubba; the Redneck Werewolf"

-"Billy; the Monster Hunter"

-"KUDU-MAN"

-"A Tale of REM"

* Additional Film & Book reviews

* Contest announcements

"HAPPY HOLIDAYS" everyone, see ya next year.

sincerely, Shawn Surface

SURFACE ART STUDIOS.

DVD Review; "The Return of the Hero/ Indiana Jones & the Kingdom of the Crystal Skull"

2008-10-26T20:12:00.000-07:00

"Hello again SurfaceDwellers and adventure lovers";

Yes, this is a DVD review instead of my standard theatre release critique for many reasons, not the least of which is the deteriorating etiquette and behavior of the average movie goer nowadays.

I initially had reservations when I first heard that they were contemplating making a new Indiana Jones adventure, I was a fan of the first three films in the 1980's and liked the style in which they were made, in fact even director Steven Spielberg(E.T. the Extraterrestrial, Saving Private Ryan, Schindler's List) had all but written off his trilogy with the character and had moved on with his film making career. Interestingly enough ,it was none other than Indy himself (Harrison Ford) who was most interested in doing an all new installment and through his patience and persistence he convinced George Lucas, Spielberg, and Frank Marshall to re-unite for this production....the result; "Indiana Jones and the Kingdom of the Crystal Skull".

The latest installment to producer/writer George Lucas' salute to the schlocky Hollywood adventure serials of the early 1940's.

The adventure takes place in 1957 during the height of red paranoia and the early days of the cold war with the Soviet Union (Russia nowadays kids ), the story opens by finding our hero albeit a bit more aged and scarred but still managing to get himself into some interesting situations with some very unpleasant people-this time instead of the Nazis Dr. Jones is relentlessly pursued by the Russians who have abducted him and his assistant Mac (Ray Winstone/Beowulf) and have forced them to lead them to a secret U.S. military base to retrieve a special artifact, one that can very well tip the scales towards the Russians favor.

Unlike the previous Indy adventures; (Raiders of the Lost Ark, Temple of Doom, and Last Crusade) this latest journey has a distinct sci-fi taste to it reflecting on the time period in which the story is set. All the principals who comprised the production team of the original three films have returned (Lucas, Spielberg, Marshall, and Kathleen Kennedy).

The story is very interesting but I had some personal reservations with the decision to make the subject matter involve an alien culture-the effects were top notch and I applaud the choice of the film makers to not "overwhelm" the audience by saturating the movie with today's amazing top of the line digital work but instead they used restraint and actually tried to match the effects with the original films twenty years back-nonetheless the film is still quite impressive visually.

I was most impressed by Ford himself ( a man in his mid 60's) reprising a demanding physical role such as Indiana Jones-and it's as if he had never stopped playing the part, sure there are a few grey hairs and some additional wrinkles but the actor can still pull it off-convincingly!

Other notable actors involved in the production are; Ray Winstone(Beowulf), John Hurt(V for Vendetta/Alien) ,Shia LaBeouf (Transformers, Constantine), Kate Blanchett(Elizabeth/the Aviator) and returning as Marion Ravenwood, actress Karen Allen(Raiders of the Lost Ark) who not only provides a pleasant supporting role but also a pivotal one to the story itself and to the character of Indiana Jones.

The film has some imaginative and impressive visuals,a rousing new score by Academy Award winning composer John Williams(JAWS, Star Wars) ,trademark high adventure scenarios, good performances turned in by a talented cast with some tongue in cheek humor mixed in.

The DVD comes in an impressive 2 disc set with a lenticular cover of artist Drew Struzan's poster art and features an introduction by Spielberg and Lucas, interviews with the cast and crew, a brief history of the Indy films , and special, behind the scenes production featurette of the film...also available; the original first 3 adventures of Indiana Jones with newly remastered digital sound and prints each adventure features an introduction by Spielberg and Lucas and don't be an ignorant fool....watch them in "WIDESCREEN" as they were meant to be seen!!!

There are some scenes I would have changed or left on the cutting room floor ,and I would have liked to have seen a little more interaction with Indy and Marion story wise but all in all I was surprisingly pleased with what I saw. The film cleaned up at the box office both stateside and worldwide even in Russia, and the latest news is that there will most likely be another new adventure coming out in the next couple of years. I'm not saying this was the best Indy adventure but I do recommend it to Indy fans who loved the first three films -in closing, a nice addition to your Indiana Jones DVD collection......."trust me."

"A NEW Monstrosity!"

2008-08-31T19:52:00.000-07:00

Hello SurfaceDwellers;

Been a while since I updated the ole' blog here so I thought I would regale you with the latest and greatest from "the Dragon's Den".

As usual ,been hard at work doing that which we all do on a daily basis to exist in this world we have made for ourselves...WORK!

I have also been continuing on developing my own projects; "KUDU-MAN" and "A Tale of REM" which are slowly but surely coming along, both are still in the writing stages. Also been gearing up for another issue of creator Mitch Hyman's "BUBBA; the Redneck Werewolf" which will be ready for publishing by the beginning of 2009 to be released through his new home at; Scare Tactix Graphix(http://www.scaretactixgraphix.com/).

I am halfway through the 12th and final issue of creator Robert Wawrzyniak's space epic "SUPER-7", I along with fellow artist Scotty Shoemaker have been working on the 7 for years now and are relieved to see the final act within our sites. A firm release date has not yet been set for the first issue of the maxi series but hopefully will see release sometime in 2009. To learn more about this upcoming science fiction saga visit the website at; http://www.kickasscomics.com/ .

Besides the occasional commission job that I pick up every now and again from fans around the world I have also only recently taken on a new book assignment this one for the good people at Scare Tactix Graphix.

The book is called "Billy the Monster Hunter" and is created and written by a newcomer to the comics field...Ramsey Rusef.

The story centers around an adventurous 5 year old boy who hunts down and battles those hideous monstrosities that live under our beds, lurk in our closets, haunt our dreams and generally terrorize our peace of mind...young Billy does this despite the disbelieving glances of his ignorant parents and with the aid of his enchanted toy collection. I have only received the script for the story recently, so work will begin on it shortly. I will post some images from the story soon...look for a Spring/2009 release of this title.

The Surface Art Studios website will soon be updated with a new addition called "the Vault", in essence an extension of the Gallery page but featuring my older works, in addition the site will also feature plot profile pages for my "Current Projects" section including one for "KUDU-MAN", and the newly assigned "Billy the Monster Hunter"...also keep a look out for an upcoming contest that I plan to have at the site come Christmas time.

Well, that's about it art lovers, gotta head back to the ole' drawing board and earn my keep as they say...

-till next time, Peace -Love- Joy :)

Shawn Surface/Surface Art Studios.

the BIG Picture; "BATMAN; the Dark Knight"

2008-07-27T20:55:00.000-07:00

Director; Christopher Nolan

Writers; Christopher Nolan

Jonathan Nolan

David Goyer

Rated; PG-13

Running Time; 152 minutes

HOLY DISAPPOINTMENTS BATMAN!

That's my first impression after seeing the much hyped, and heavily anticipated follow up to director Christopher Nolan's "Batman Begins" (2005), I am of course referring to the recently released "Batman; the Dark Knight".

After waiting a week for it and the crowds to cool down a bit from it's history making opening weekend me and a friend decided to brave the everyday dangers of city life and go see what all the talk was about.

I went and saw "Batman Begins" when it was released in 2005, and was very impressed with it and consider it and Tim Burton's "Batman Returns"(1992) the best film versions of the caped crusader to date and I must add "Dark Knight" with them as well....but with some reservation.

The film is technically stunning with it's creative yet realistic camera angles and carefully thought out action sequences and downright attractive cinematography- all can add up to an enjoyable evening at the cinema-but the main problem I had with the film was it's length; at a butt numbing 2 hours and 45 minute running time I could actually feel myself getting older as I watched this film-to put it plainly...it's just TOO DAMN LONG!

The cast and performances are top notch as they were in the preceding film, everybody reprising their roles with the notable exception of the beautiful Ms. Katie Holmes(Mrs. Tom Cruise) in the role of Bruce Wayne's (Christian Bale) love interest Rachel Dawes, the character is now played by actress Maggie Gyllenhall. Gary Oldman(Capt. Gordon), Michael Caine(Alfred Pennyworth), and Morgan Freeman(Lucius Fox) all return for another romp in Gotham, even Cillian Murphy( Scarecrow) from "Batman Begins" makes a brief cameo in the first ten minutes of the film. But it's the performances of the two villains profiled and the talented actors that played them that makes my highlight reel and the film ,despite it's near telethon length ,worth the watch.

Aaron Eckhart("Thank You for Smoking"/"Erin Brockovitch") turns in an impressive performance as Gotham's newly appointed DA Harvey Dent determined to clean up Gotham by putting the local crime lords out of business...for good! His fate is a tragic one though with his violent and disturbing transformation into "Two Face", a feat greatly accomplished on film with the help of some amazing FX work.

The other actor you have no doubt heard of, especially after his tragic unexpected passing earlier this year after an accidental drug overdose. Heath Ledger("Brokeback Mountain"/"A Knight's Tale") hands in a stunning performance as the maniacal, anarchy driven "Joker", one of the most complex and multi layered antagonists ever put on paper or on screen. Ledger's performance is noteworthy in his translation of the character itself, portraying Joker as some kind of seemingly harmless mental/emotionally crippled creep who just isn't taken seriously until he acts out his intentions...violently and effectively.

He has no ulterior motive no secret agenda he just simply wants to destroy Gotham and everyone in it and if the world is included in that equation...all the better.

As stated before the film is quite long but the true crime of it was it PLAYED long, now in my opinion if your film is going to be lengthy it should have a good flow to it, make the viewer experience it but without actually realizing the fact that they have spent over two hours of their lives in front of a large screen, some fine examples of this would be David Lean's "Lawrence of Arabia"(1962), and James Cameron's "the Abyss"(1989). This film played out more like Ang Lee's "HULK"(2004), both attractive films, fine performances but slow pacing which is not good for a film, especially one based on a comics franchise.

The story although slow to start was pretty good once all the pieces of the puzzle were in place but their were, at times near the middle of the film, that were a bit confusing-even to me.

I consider myself a "BATFAN" albeit a bit more subdued, and I didn't hate this film, I just didn't like it as much as "Batman Begins", and in the end doesn't deserve the much overblown hype and reviews that it has received. I am almost reluctant to say this but the massive success of this film thus far can be traced not to performances, no matter how great, not to storytelling/direction, no matter how effective-but to the shocking demise of a young promising talent that was Heath Ledger (1979-2008).

Goin to the Movies; "Hellboy 2: the Golden Army"

2008-07-16T22:03:00.000-07:00

Just returned from the local overpriced movie house to see the latest from director extraordinaire; Guillermo Del Toro(Blade 2, Pan's Labyrinth, Chronos) I am of course referring to the sequel to his 2004 surprise hit "Hellboy", a big budget cinematic adaptation to creator/artist Mike Mignola's hit comic series of the same name.

This follow up picture is more about the BPRD(Bureau of Paranormal Research & Defense), the secret government organization that employs Hellboy to do battle with all sorts of supernatural nasties that may spell doom for us humanfolk here on Earth. The story begins much like the first film, with a flashback of sorts, with a much younger Professor Broome(John Hurt) telling a "fairy" tale to a young Hellboy, a tale which turns out as most fantastic scenarios do in this genre as true. The main tale as it were concerns a rebellion waged against the blight that has become mankind by the creatures of the mythical realm led by a renegade Prince(Luke Goss) who has access to an ancient and devastating army of destroyer machines(the Golden Army), he only lacks the control mechanism to activate the slumbering juggernaut-once awakened the army will lay waste to the entire Human Race and return the Earth back to the creatures of the fantastic.

Hellboy with the help of the BPRD must stop Prince Nuada before he completes his mission.

All of the pricipal cast has returned including the main man, uh demon Hellboy ( Ron Perlman), his aquatic sidekick Abe Sapien(Doug Jones) ,Hellboy's main squeeze, firestarter Liz Sherman(Selma Blair), and bureau chief Tom Manning(Jeffrey Tambor), we find out early in the film that agent John Myers(Rupert Evans) from the first film has been inexplicably reassigned to a post in Antarctica.

Unlike the first film which was basically a set up picture re-telling Hellboy's origin, this picture is a different adventure all it's own, specially written for the screen by creator Mike Mignola and director Del Toro this film is much more action packed and is presented in a much bigger scale than the first film involving mutiple plot lines, side stories and a colorful multitude of unforgettable, at least visually, characters I haven't seen since the famous cantina scene in Star Wars .

The movie is visually beautiful, Del Toro and his artisans have once again made a film for artists by artists set in a fairy tale setting much like his award winning "Pan's Labyrinth",a picture I highly reccommend!

Compared to the first film this one has much more action involved especially in fight sequences, and despite a couple of slow scenes the film is fluid in it's action- the big surprise for me is that this film is as much about Hellboy's buddy Abe Sapien(Doug Jones) as it is about Hellboy himself, in fact he's involved with a little romance with a princess in the story. One of the more interesting characters in the film is the introduction of Dr. Johann Krauss(Seth McFarlane), brought in by BPRD chief Manning to help control Hellboy's fiery nature.Krauss was once a coporeal human until an unforseen tragedy reduced him to a living vaporous entity confined to an atmospheric suit.

One of the most humorous and unforgettable sequences in the film is when the good Doctor picks a fight with Hellboy to prove a point.

The film is filled with extraordinary creatures ,settings, and scenarios and if you liked the first film you'll like this follow up. Guillermo Del Toro is an artist himself and it shows on screen and I highly reccomend checking his films out, he has just signed up to direct the big budget adaptation of J.R.R.Tolkien's "the Hobbit" for producer Peter Jackson and his company, and he is a big fan of Hellboy and his creator Mike Mignola and has stated that he would love to do another chapter in this story.

So if you want to go see what a comic book film adaptation "should" look like check out "Hellboy; and the Golden Army"...enjoy the show.

"Truly Inspirational!"

2008-06-04T22:09:00.000-07:00

What inspires you?

What drives an individual to create something from nothingness?

Some are inspired by ideas while others are moved by simple words that when put together form a profound message or has a special meaning. Some are inspired by deeds or events whether it be in the past or present.Some are inspired by the loved ones in their lives whether it be siblings, parents, a spouse or their children...and still others can be inspired by the most obscure isolated, and unrelated subjects(I fall into this category).

Writing does not come naturally to me, I am first and foremost a visual artist whose main daily struggle is to reach a state of creative motivation that will guide me through the day, I, like all artists, have had my share of good days and bad days.

I am currently developing two projects that are my own; "KUDU-MAN" which I have mentioned before in my blogs is developing nicely despite my clumsiness at my new vocation as a writer....and then theres yet another project which I have only just begun to write out, It's one of my oldest story ideas, one that I have had since I was about 12/13.

It's a fantasy piece currently titled; "the Tales of REM" and it will hopefully see print (if all goes well) within the next couple of years-well this is where the inspiration part comes in, first off I can't believe nor could I have ever thought that I'd be typing this in a blog someday but at least it's my blog and if/when the book is printed I will retell this story again in one of the inside covers.

My key inspirational source for REM comes from the image of a girl that has been with me for most of my life(no not an old girlfriend), but someone I have never met but nonetheless her image has stayed with me all this time.

Now images inspiring people is nothing new, take the Grand Canyon for example, or Niagara Falls, and the Eiffel Tower just to name a few, but what has intrigued me all these years is how strongly this image has stayed with me over the years...something I simply can't explain-it borders on obsession although I do not consider myself an obsessive person.

When I was around 11/12 years old I went and saw a movie called "Melody", a small British film that starred Mark Lester("Oliver"), Jack Wild("H.R.Puff N' Stuff") ,and in her film debut ,Tracy Hyde.

Now with the exception of Jack Wild whom I had seen in the Sid & Marty Kroft "Puff N' Stuff" episodes, I didn't know who these other people were or even what the story was about for that matter, but I went with a friend who said it was pretty good-so I went. That was my introduction to Tracy Hyde who made the film worth watching in my biased opinion, now I was at an age when one starts to notice girls as more than these silly giggly creatures who run around wearing funny clothes-but The girl on film was stunningly beautiful, I can honestly say that it was the first time that I attributed the word to physically describe somebody....oh and the film was ok too!

I went and saw the picture several times before it left the theatre. I wouldn't run into the film again till it was broadcast on late night television some 25 years later. I was fortunate enough to recently purchase a DVD of the rare film, and unlike some movies whose impact has faded with time, this one still packs a punch to me, especially that same unforgettable image of that girl who so inspired me many years ago.

She was a child actor /model for only a brief time but she was immortalized in Japan and of course on celluloid with her performance in "Melody".

Nowadays she is like the rest of us mere mortals and has reclaimed her spot in the human race living anotherwise normal life in England with her family. I based one of the main characters in "REM" on her and hopefully soon I will be able to share with others around the globe this world called REM which all was inspired by the image of a beautiful girl...

"...an IRON CLAD HIT!"

2008-05-04T22:20:00.000-07:00

Superheroe/Comic book movies are a dime a dozen they say, and some professionals in the biz would have you think that the genre has lived out it's effectiveness at the box office-a passing fad which has seen it's day come and go...to answer the skeptics and nere do wells out in "Hollyweird" ,I give you........."IRON MAN"!

The latest adaptation from Marvel comics long list of heroes is magically transformed into the official first blockbuster of 2008 by some great direction by Jon Favreau("Zathura" & "Elf") ,very keen writing by screenwriters; Mark Fergus, Hawk Ostby, Art Markum, and Matt Holloway and despite the disturbing fact that this film needed four people to write it ,nevertheless perserveres as a very effective and ultimately ejoyable action flick.

What impressed me most about this film besides the stunning special effects which has all become a standard nowadays in such films ,were the fine performances turned in by a virtual "who's who" of academy award nominees including; Terence Howard/as James Rhodes("Hustle & Flow"), Jeff Bridges/as Obediah Stane("the Big Lebowski"), Gwyneth Paltrow/as Pepper Potts("Shakespeare in Love"), and of course Robert Downey Jr./as Tony Stark("Chaplin").

They have of course updated the Gold & Garnet Avenger's origins a bit to a more contemporary time .

Tony Stark is now depicted on film as a cocky/charismatic arms developer helping to supply our troops in wartorn Iraq/Afghanistan, while on a trip to the region to display and demonstrate his newest, and deadliest weapon; "the Jericho Missile", he and his military escort are attacked by terrorists and he is taken hostage-forced to develop an equally devastating weapon to be used against American forces-he instead uses his talents and genius to build a makeshift garage style juggernaut which he uses to escape his captors.

Through his traumatic experiences and witnessing first hand the terrible effects of his high tech weaponry Stark re-evaluates his pupose in life ...and a hero is born!

The film although a hardcore action flick does contain some lighter moments with some tongue in cheek humor which is brilliantly and naturally played out by Robert Downey Jr.

He makes this film both believable and thoroughly enjoyable.

I confess to not being the biggest of Iron Man/Robert Downey Jr. fans but this film has changed my mind. Not since the 1963 debut of this armored heroe within the pages of Marvel's "Tales of Suspense" has Iron Man flown so high or packed as much punch than in this fantastic film translation.

This film although a comic film does contain some intense scenes of violence and destruction that may be too much for the little ones.

Also if you plan on watching the film stay to the very end of the film credits for there is a special teaser scene for all those IRON MAN fans out there.

So if you like comic books or even if you don't but like high flying adventure, check out this man of stee-uh I mean Iron!!!

"After MangaCon...and more!"

2008-03-10T22:32:00.000-07:00

Greetings Surfacedwellers!,

My first post after the trainwreck that was Manga-uh I mean MegaCon/2008.

I had one of my worst turnouts in recent memory, and this was by far my worst MegaCon to date..hopefully it will improve from this point onward.

My clever wordplay with MegaCon is no mere coincidence, over the years one of the southeast's largest con events has mutated from it's humble yet pure Comics friendly roots to the Ginormous media/manga/anime monster that it is today. The spacious floors of the Orange County Convention center were maliciously invaded by countless hordes of furry ear wearing,giant cardboard sword wielding, anime/manga worshipping Lemmings all geared up and ready to profess there undying love and borderline obsessive support for all things far eastern.

Despite the overpriced parking and con admissions the turnout was very good-unfortunately for me ,I had no wide variety of prints sporting giant eyed girls or funny animals and robots decorating my tabletop-just the usual ,highly detailed,classic style comic illustrations for which I had some admirers who leafed through my sample books and checked out some of my latest prints ,and graciously took a business card every now and again, but all in all, no fish were bitin!

The table was free, so my sorrow and dissapointment are temporary-can only hope that next year will be different...cause next year's MegaCon is a BIG one, for me personally and most importantly...professionally!

I started the layouts and pencils on the NEW issue of Mitch Hyman's "BUBBA; the Redneck Werewolf", the new issue is entitled "Rumble in Romania" and will be released this coming June by new publisher Scare Tactix Graphix. The story is by BUBBA creator Hyman, and colors by Frank Turner.

You can read more about BUBBA's next issue on my BUBBA page at the SURFACE ART STUDIOS.

I am also illustrating a short story titled "Pedator & Prey" written by Paul Monsky for his new adventure anthology series; "VAVAVAVOOM" ...more on that later, well have to get back to the ole drawing board, will update you more on everything going on here at the house of the dragon....stay tuned SurfaceDwellers!

"Crammin for the Con"!

2008-02-18T22:00:00.000-08:00

Hi Kids!,

Just a few lines to let you in on the latest adventures from "SURFACEWORLD"!

Been workin hard & heavy to get some work prepared for the upcoming MegaCon/2008 event coming here in Orlando this March 7-9th at the Orange County Convention Center.

Was originally not going to attend due to workload and the usual "strapped for ca$h" reasons, but a friend/collaborator infomed me that he had arranged some last minute table space ,so I will be there "in the flesh".

Besides the usual doing convention sketches at a reasonably low price I will also have on hand some preview pages of the maxi series that I have been working on for over the past year; the upcoming sci-fi epic...."SUPER-7", written by Robert Wawrzyniak and inked by Scott Shoemaker.

I will also have available a variety of colored prints including some of my latest works.

Plus ,if time allows I'll also have a special limited edition MegaCon/2008 souvenir poster available for a low low price.

The subject matter for this years poster is writer Steve Gerber("Howard the Duck","Man-Thing","Thundarr the Barbarian"), who tragically lost his long battle with Pulmonary Fibrosis only just recently (February 12th) ,he was 60 years old.

I will also make available some sneek peeks at other projects in the works here at the SURFACE ART STUDIOS, so, if your able, look for me in "Artists Alley" at this years MegaCon/2008 and pay me a visit.

Now on a slightly different note I want to talk about and highly reccomend a graphic novel that I had just purchased at yon bookstore...you may have heard of it..."Pride of Baghdad"(DC/Vertigo).

I have been wanting to check this book out not only because of the positive reviews that it has recieved since its release in September/2007 ,but because the central characters of the story are in fact animals...a small pride of Lions to be exact.

My first creator owned project; "KUDU-MAN" also places animals in pivotal roles and I wanted to get a prime example of how the story was done using them as central characters...I was not dissapointed!

Author Brian K. Vaughan and artist Niko Henrichon have delivered a fantastic and intimate tale of survival in the early days of the Iraqi war as seen through the eyes of these beautiful creatures...the coloring is also done superbly by Henrichon the story in general was inspired by a true incident....so if you get the chance get it, but be warned it is graphic and does contain violent ,shocking moments.

-I highly reccomend it,

till next time Surface dwellers.......

peace,

Shawn Surface

SURFACE ART STUDIOS.

"HAPPY NEW YEAR!" aka; 2008: the year of...the SHAWN!

2008-01-02T11:02:00.000-08:00

....all work and no play make Shawn a dull boy, all work and no play make Shawn a dull boy,all work and no play make Shawn a dull boy, all work and n....OH! hi there and Happy new year to all you SURFACE DWELLERS out there.

Hope all had a great and joyous holiday season and welcomed the new year somewhat sober and hopefully safe & sane.

As for me 2008 is starting off pretty much as 2007 ended ...busy,I have my nose and pen in hand to the ole' drawing board, hard at work creating new images both familiar and some not so familiar...good thing is it's keeping me off the streets which is a good thing.

Still currently working on "SUPER-7", the 12 part sci-fi maxi series penned by writer Robert Wawrzyniak. I'm nearly finished with pencils on issue #11, and series inker Scott Shoemaker has returned stateside (from his 6 month adventure in splendid Shanghai, China) and has resumed his inking and coloring duties for the series.

The first issue of this long awaited space epic debuts later this year...stay tuned for release dates.

My first creator owned title; "KUDU-MAN" is still in the final writing stage on the proposed mini series which will in turn prepare the public for what hopes to be a regular series-look for it to debut this coming September/2008.

I am also hard at work on numerous commissions, pictured here is one of my first of the new year, a Wonder Woman piece entitled; "Reflection", I did this for my buddies at D&B Comics.

The Surface Art Studios website will soon be updated with new art while some of my older pieces will be put away in a new section called simply ;"the Vault", visitors will still be able to look through my older pieces while in this new section-speaking of the website a contest will be posted soon to test ones visual comic knowledge-the Grand Prize; a fully colored original custom piece of art from yours truly...stay tuned for details.

My convention schedule will soon be revised with some minor changes, so that I can concentrate more and devote more time on developing my upcoming projects I will unfortunately be unable to attend some cons that I regularly go to annually. At present I am only committed to this year's Heroes Con in Charlotte, NC. I really like going to cons and being a part of them ,getting feedback from fans and commissions and meeting with some of the great professionals in the field, but in order for me to meet some deadlines I will have to cut back a little on my travels...once my projects start coming out to the public I will make it a point to be more visible and available to the public to help promote my work and hopefully get some great feedback in the process.

I am in the process of starting on 2 NEW gigs as I like to call them, once these deals are finalized I will release more details...so stay tuned right here.....same Bat-Time, same Bat-Channel!

........oh and; "HAPPY NEW YEAR"!

peace, Shawn Surface

SURFACE ART STUDIOS.

"Back to WORK!"

2007-11-15T21:45:00.000-08:00

Just a few lines to let you know what's going on in the "House of the Dragon";

After a brief break filled with numerous commissions and side projects I'm getting back into the rhythm of sequential storytelling by resuming my pencilling duties on writer/creator Robert Wawrzyniak's 12 issue space epic; "the SUPER-7".

I have been working on this series for some years now and it's finally nearing it's completion, on my end at least! Inking and coloring still needs to be applied to the series art to fully bring it to life. With the help of fellow artist Scott Shoemaker who is inking ,and a small army of colorists who are adding their combined pallettes to this star spanning Science Fiction adventure, the series will finally see it's initial issue released in 2008.

I am currently doing the layouts and pencils for issue #11 of the series entitled; "Time to meet your Makers".

To find out more about this upcoming space saga and about characters like the evil "General REEN"(pictured) here, you need only visit the official website at; http://www.kickasscomics.com/ or see the "SUPER-7" window under my "current projects" here at the SURFACE ART STUDIOS.

I am also currently illustrating my first children's book called; "Chase's Arctic Adventure".

The story about three lost Arctic region animal babies (a Polar Bear, Arctic Fox,and a Penguin)trying to find their way back to their parents is written by first time storyteller Anna Wawrzyniak and is being colored by Robert Wawrzyniak ("SUPER-7") , this is the second story written by Mrs. Wawrzyniak, her first children's tale; "Iggy's Rainforest Adventure" is currently available from Bosco Books and features the art of Scott Shoemaker.

To find out more about this series of books and for ordering information visit the official website at; http://www.shirtsandshortstories.com/

I am also resuming my writing on my first creator owned project; "KUDU-MAN", more details will follow on my pet project as it develops.

I am also putting some finishing touches on some commission pieces that I have been working on-I will post the finished art in the Gallery of my studios......Stay tuned, see you here; "Same Bat-Time, same Bat-Channel"!

"This one really SUCKS!"

2007-10-22T21:47:00.000-07:00

"Happy Halloween kids!"

Thought it would be appropriate at this time of year to go see a good ole' scary movie, unfortunately for me and my friend Vince....we saw "30 Days of Night" instead!

Based on the phenomenally successful graphic novel by Steve Niles and Bruce Templesmith from Dark Horse Comics the film version of this updated tale of the Vampire was a major disappointment to say the least.

I am partially guilty of ignorance on this particular film because I have, as of yet, not read the original graphic novel for which it was based-I went in grading this strictly on it's film merits and not to compare it with it's paperback predecessor.

I had heard a lot of good things about the novel and will eventually bring myself to read it someday, my initial turnoff from reading the book was the visual interpretation of the story, it was a bit too "expressionistic" in style for me considering it was in fact a comic book...but that's another story for another time.

Speaking of story ,here it is in a nutshell; The story takes place in Barrow ,Alaska, which for those unaware is the northernmost populated town in the continental United States, mainly a blue collar oil town with a general population of less than a 1000 souls. Due to it's unique geographic locale, the town of Barrow experiences a dark period of approximately 30 days each season, enter our favorite little creatures of the night.

A group of wayward bloodsuckers led by an enigmatic, foreign speaking chap by the name of Marlowe (Danny Huston-"Fade to Black") takes advantage of this fact and goes on a virtual smorgasbord of prime grade "A" American beef and let me say these guys have terrible eating manners.

The film opens like a classic Vampiric tale worthy of Bram Stoker or in this particular instance...the silent film classic "Nosferatu"with a cargo ship iced in the bay near town, and a mysterious stranger(Ben Foster-"X-Men;the Last Stand") wandering into Barrow preaching doom to all those who would listen.

The local sheriff (Josh Hartnett-"Blackhawk Down"), who seems a bit young for the position is a tad clueless as to what's going on at first due in part to the distractions of his estranged wife ,(Melissa George-"Turistas") who plays a bewildered local fire marshall.

After what seems a rather slow start and in my opinion failed attempt to set up some of the main characters in the story ,it picks up speed rather quickly as soon as the sun sets for the final time. These vampires aren't totally stupid, they know the opportunity they are presented here so they plan ahead, by isolating the town, cutting off it's power supply and any possible means of communication with the outside world...after this is accomplished ...let the carnage begin!

In the tradition of more recent horror hits like "28 Days Later","Dawn of the Dead" ,and "The Hills Have Eyes" this film is high on action and gore and most notably....speed.

Directed by David Slade("Hard Candy") with cinematography by Jo Willems("Hard Candy") the film has a good look to it although technically for a film that is set in a town suffering through "30 Days of Night" it seems awfully bright at times.

The more annoying aspects of the film were the screeching lesser Vampires who seemed nothing more than mindless drones ambling through this little town attacking anything that moved ,and whenever an attack was presented, and it was ,frequently ,it was accompanied by an overbearingly loud soundtrack score designed I guess to shock and enhance the horror of the scene-this happened every single time an attack happened which was one too many!

The acting was lackluster, typical fare from your average splatter flick, but considering the fact that this was a highly anticipated film with an impressive budget...I for one expected better, hell in comparison ,the original TV version of Stephen King's "Salem's Lot" starring David Soul was superior to this effort and that's saying a lot.

The ending scene of the film wasn't even that original, hell it's an obvious swipe from "Blade 2"!

After seeing this "monstrously" bad film I will have to read the original graphic novel to compare...just to see what all the praise was about. In the meantime, save your $10.00 bucks, stay home and watch some classic horror movies like some of the films I named above including; the original "Exorcist", "the Thing", "Frankenstein" ,and yes of course...the original "Dracula" .

"Happy Haunting;enjoy the show!"

-peace

Shawn Surface

SURFACE ART STUDIOS.

2007-10-21T14:54:00.000-07:00

Orlando comic-con/2007; the Day After!

2007-09-24T22:10:00.000-07:00

Well, just returned from my last convention of the year and boy was it a big hot steaming pile of.....BOREDOM!!!

Now I'm not saying the con itself was a failure although there were some apparent problems with the preparation of the event-some of which could have been avoided if certain precautions had been taken.

The Orlando Comic-Con is a young convention only in it's second year of existence in a highly competitive industry. A con this young can't afford a bad rep in the business or it's lifespan will definetly be shortened...and all it takes is a bad word of mouth.

I live in O-town or as I like to refer to it; "the great land of the RAT", so I didn't have far to go to be a part of this lil' party, but other guests did travel, some from outside the country.

I saw some friends at the event, friends like Tommy Castillo, Craig Zablo, Pat Carlucci, Gene Gonzalez, and Mitch Hyman and Steve Sanchez just to name a few; then there were some of the bigger names in the biz; Mario Gully, Leinil Frances Yu, John Beatty, David Lloyd and the legendary Nick Cardy...But at the same time there were some noticeable absences like local based Arcana Studios and Stuart Immonen to name a few who apparently pulled out at the last minute due to some disagreement or misunderstanding between them and the organizers of the con.

I never really got to the bottom of the story but the general feeling was that something was amiss, also the hours were a bit on the weird side-it was advertised as a 3 day con but in reality the first day(which never accured due to some mixup with the resort location) was a 3 hour VIP preview night which would also allow some of the vendors to set up for the next day. Saturday was in all apsects a normal con day (10am-6pm) , normal hours for a Saturday at a convention (the most important and profitable day). Sunday was inexplicably short (11am-3pm), only four hours to try and make a profit with whatever you have to sell wether it be books, toys, cards, art or talent.

I am but a small independent artist trying to make ends meet, granted I, like many other artists have a "real job" in the world , I do not have a large profile name like a Greg Horn, Alex Ross, or a Jim Lee, maybe someday but at the moment I'm just plain ole' humble Shawn Surface so the more hours at a con table can be very important because the not so well known artists and professionals out there need every little cent and ounce of exposure.

In the end I came away paying for my table space with my earnings at the con, which is OK cause as I mentioned earlier ,I live in the Orlando area, a mere 30 minutes from where the con was held-it would have been nice to come away with a little more to put in the piggy bank but again this was a small and young con , one which could stand some more agressive advertising and careful management and planning-hopefully some mistakes made this year in preparation for the event will be remedied by next year.

Glynn and Sara who organized the con as they did last year are still learning the ropes of conventions-they are very nice people and hopefully in time things will all fall into place...the sooner ,the better, they have succesfully attracted some big names to there event and have moved it's date to what I think is a far superior slot in the calendar (September) far away from MegaCons residue in February.

Hopefully there will be an Orlando Comic-Con/2008, it will most likely be held in a different location other than the Caribe Royale Resort which may have caused some of the problems at this years event....time will tell.

My next scheduled cons will not be until next year, next on the agenda are two local, higher profile cons; the FX Extravaganza(January/2008), and the Orlando MegaCon(February/2008).

Till then ,it's back to the ole' drawing board, in the coming months I will be giving updates on some of the projects that I am currently working on including; "the SUPER-7", "BUBBA; the Redneck Werewolf", "Chase's Arctic Adventure", and my first creator owned project....."KUDU-MAN".

PEACE ;)

Shawn Surface

SURFACE ART STUDIOS.

"the Last Con".....of 2007!

2007-09-13T21:37:00.000-07:00

The final convention,at least for me, of the year is fastly approaching....and I can't wait!

The Orlando Comic-Con, only in it's second year is still suffering from growing pains but has attracted some impressive names to it's ever growing guest list including; Bill Tucci(Shi), Lenil Frances Yu(X-Men), Mario Gully(Ant,Totem), and the legendary Nick Cardy(Teen Titans,Bat Lash).I was thrilled to hear that it was expanding it's stay for three days only to find out, much to my disappointment that it is ,in actuality, really two days. Big names in the business like the gents I mentioned above can coast on a short con like this one, hell even one dayers would be ok with these guys, but small timers like myself plus a number of burgeoning indie creators struggling to get a foothold in the biz ,a short con can be a disaster....luckily for me on this one...I don't have to travel far, it's just a thirty minute drive from my humble lil' studios.

I will, as I usually do, ply my trade as artist at the event, creating on the spot custom commissions for any and all interested while at the same time spreading the word of, "the Shawn", handing out my lil' glossy business cards hoping silently that I'll get a nibble from a potential client or better yet a future employer. But honestly if it helps circulate my name and my studios, and in turn attracts more visitors to me and my site it will be a successful con.

I would like to be on the level of a Adam Hughes, or a Michael Turner, or a Jim Lee whose mere presence at a con guarantees them a hefty check at the end of the weekend...but as always, I'll patiently bide my time for I seek not fame nor fortune, only the chance to live comfortably and securely by my art...that and to win the lotto if only once!

The Orlando Comic-Con starts this coming September 21st-23rd here in the great "land of the Rat", Orlando ,Florida. For any interested in attending the event you can find out more about it at; http://www.orlandocon.net/.

I will be available for commissions, I charge pretty low at $20.oo a pop for a single character, more characters may cost you more. Plus I will have some of my color prints available for sale.

For this years con I have created an exclusive souvenir poster which you see pictured here, it measures approximately 11x17 on semi glossy stock.

I go in with optimistic eyes, I was at last years inaugural event and to put it nicely...."I tanked"!

Hope to see some of you fans down there, if only to stop by and say "Hi".

I will be posting a report on the convention after it's completion...so hopefully something juicy will happen, like a "Tommy Lee/Kid Rock" throwdown, at some of these things peoples egos do tend to get the better of them at times, but alas, I have only noticed these lil' flare ups at the big Wizard World events.

Well......hope springs eternal!

-talk with you later kids,

Peace

Shawn Surface

SURFACE ART STUDIOS.