Thursday, 28 November 2013

The passing of a legend.


It was with great sadness that I read yesterday about the passing of one of the great makers and steampunks, Richard "Doc" Nagy, known as the Datamancer. 

His creations were some of the most inspiring and beautiful artifacts produced in the name of retrofuturism, useful and elegant pieces that would last a lifetime. His attitude towards making totally encapsulates everything I want to celebrate and commemorate with this project.

Although the only character in my book with a physical likeness drawn from the steampunk community is Badger (based on Jake von Slatt), Mole was always in my mind something like Doc. A tinkerer and experimental builder, I saw his home filled with strange and wonderful brass and wood creations, his hands always busily working on the next project.

I began working on an illustration shortly after I read the news of his passing. It's from the first chapter of the book, the very first paragraph, when Mole throws down his whitewash brush and scrambles out of his cosy home and into a new world.

I'd like to dedicate it to Doc's memory. I'm sorry I was never able to meet him, and I mourn for the great loss so many must be feeling, but I know the legacy of his works and enthusiasm will continue to inspire makers for many years to come.



Thursday, 21 November 2013

Kickstarter Update

As of this morning the project is at 65% funded, which is awesome and very exciting.

I'm sure everyone is wondering what I've been doing over the last week and a bit, so I made a video showing how hard I've been working. Enjoy!


Sunday, 17 November 2013

Interview!

With my Kickstarter at just under 50% funded (the sort of thing that tends to make one a bit fixated and crazy), I've been given a lovely sort of distraction in the form of an interview for a writing/illustrating blog.

Ever wondered about the weird world inside my head, my creative process, inspirations or why I seem to have so many top-hats in my art? Here's your chance to find out!

Illustrious interview


Tuesday, 12 November 2013

Kickstarter is GO!

As I may have mentioned rather enthusiastically a couple of days ago, my Kickstarter is ready to launch. And now it has! If you like what you see, please support the project and spread the word with anyone you think might be interested.

Steam in the Willows on Kickstarter

Thank you!

Sunday, 3 November 2013

Kickstarter incoming!

Kickstarter is launching in Australia in two weeks, so I've been busily putting together my proposal. There are so many details and tiny things to think about! It is all coming together, though, and after some refinements with feedback I'm feeling pretty good about my pitch.
To celebrate, let's have some art!