The Utilisaurus

April 28, 2009

2009-04-28T10:18:00.004-04:00

Here is a new illo, which I recently completed for the publication IndyKids. It's to be used in a double page spread coloring book, which is to be accompanied with their next issue. I was asked to illustrate a kid friendly scene, showing the determination and strong voices of various UC Berkeley students, showing a creative approach to protesting South American apartheid in the 1980's. It's quite an interesting and powerful statement...but I really don't expect too many of the kids to really understand, or even really care about the issues behind the illo...let's just hope it's a fun page to color.

April 14, 2009

2009-04-14T15:04:00.009-04:00

(ILLUSTRATION FRIDAY...SEE BELOW)
Ugh, sorry for my disappearing act over the past month. On top of loads of traveling, I'm in the process of moving to Baltimore...so my precious blog did get kicked around a bit. Still though, I recently completed an illo for WIN Magazine, which is the publication for the War Resisters League. Simple b&w piece illustrating about the US military trying to be more sustainable and environmentally friendly. Gotta love the tree huggin.

ILLUSTRATION FRIDAY - FLEETING

The fleeting army of interstellar objects swooped in before the farmhand could escape. it all happened in a split second.

Don't worry, be happy...I'll be back with new posts shortly

March 15, 2009

2009-03-15T18:10:00.003-04:00

I'm heading out of town for a few days, and will be taking a couple of days off from posting. Never fear my faithful Untilisaurus-heads...I will be back with a bang in a no time! Until then, I leave you with a simple observation only made possible from The Age of Prosperity!

The Age of Prosperity #15

March 14, 2009

2009-03-14T12:49:00.004-04:00

I haven't attempted another character study in a while, so I thought I'd take a shot at a mother character. Always in cartoons, the odd ball mom seems to be a star, so my mother character is a hippie at heart with 21st century mentality. Go green, eco friendly, hippie-yoga mom...maybe she should date the washed up rock star dad. To see more character studies...click the character designs link in the TABS (below).

March 13, 2009

2009-03-13T11:27:00.010-04:00

ILLUSTRATION FRIDAY - LEGENDARY
Mr. Wilkenson was a LEGENDARY model citizen within his community. A successful elementary school teacher, president of the PTA, a volunteer police officer, church usher and big brother, he just can't resist the call of taking his little boy to his first baseball game. With the excitement of high and inside pitches, RBI line drives, and questionable calls at the plate, a few beers is the calling card for this sport of kings! I'm sure it's nothing he can't handle, right?

Still though, Mr. Wilkenson let's the booze get the better if him, and he is now remembered forever throughout the community not as the straight laced do gooder, but now as the legendary town drunk, who couldn't help but show his colleagues his wild belly hair. Eventually, when you think of the excitement that a night at the ballpark can bring, Mr. Wilkenson thought long about what he has done to his legendary status, and he like all of us came to realize that...it was totally worth it.

March 12, 2009

2009-03-12T11:46:00.003-04:00

You know, one of these days, there will be an art director or whoever, who asks themselves, "I wonder if that Matthew guy can draw a super overweight guy, like those people who have the world records or something?" Then, soon enough they'll see this, and BOOM! I guess that's my only explanation on why I decided to draw this illo for today. Still though, it was quite a fun!

March 11, 2009

2009-03-11T13:34:00.005-04:00

Today, I've decided to take a day off from drawing, just one. I feel that the industry isn't being completely fair to illustrators at the moment, and a day of rest is well deserved. I have many artist colleagues who's uniqueness and creativity aren't given as many chances in these dismal times. Still though, I've decided to post this spectacular proclamation I just found, in which illustrator Luc Latulippe finally gave a jab back for all illustrators currently in the recessions strong hold. I applaud Luc, for his first for his brilliant op-ed, but also his sheer bravery and strong voice.

EVERYONE, PLEASE TAKE A MOMENT TO READ THIS! CLICK HERE

Still though, you can't curb your creativity for too long, so please check back tomorrow for a new fun Utilisaurus illo!

March 10, 2009

2009-03-10T13:22:00.003-04:00

I know I intended to do an odd drawing of the typical every man with the typical every man fantasy of a suped up engine on his dinkly little lawn mower. Then, I soon realized that suped up lawn mowers are such a pain to draw!

March 09, 2009

2009-03-09T11:11:00.002-04:00

Birthday celebrations are over, and now it's back to the grind of finding the best way to survive. Davey always falls into challenges that he's way not prepared for.

The Age of Prosperity #14

March 08, 2009

2009-03-08T12:30:00.007-04:00

Today I'm adding a digit to my age, SO in celebration of the day of my birth, on the day or rest, on day light savings day, I'm giving myself the day OFF!

For your information, on the day I entered the universe, 99 Red Balloons by Nena was ruling the charts, and those economists we're predicting the future...and pretty accurately too! (see Time cover)

One more huge moment in history happened on the date in 1618, when the brilliant Johannes Kepler discovers the third law of planetary motion! Ironically, NASA just launched two days ago, the Kepler Mission, which is sending a new space telescope to search for Earth-like planets orbiting other stars. Through pursuing the scientific objective, the telescope will determine how many terrestrial and larger planets there are in or near the habitable zone of a wide variety of stars. This is a breakthrough in space exploration, and the human beings entire perception on the theory of our existence. The Hubble Space Telescope has detected bodies that are strikingly similar as Earth, and these discoveries were a stunner to the scientific world. Who knows where this mission will take us! Still though, a simpler celebration for today is that WATCHMEN is in theaters...entertainment is all around us at the moment!

March 06, 2009

2009-03-06T10:38:00.005-05:00

ILLUSTRATION FRIDAY - INTRICATE
Even through having multiple INTRICATE, interrelated facets, it still seems that EVERY TIME i get on the subway, I always end up beside the shrieking toddlers with unresponsive parents or the guy devouring buckets of KFC. You soon learn that even in a city of millions, with hundreds of routes, it still seems that something that can be so hard for an outsider to understand, is pretty much one thing...a plethora of pet peeves zooming below NYC's streets.

Interesting irony...if you create an anagram of this weeks word, "INTRICATE", you get, "TRAIN CITE", which i found comical, considering I'm citing some of my annoyances with the trains that I rely so much on.

March 05, 2009

2009-03-05T14:04:00.005-05:00

With the cold weather still lurking around, Davey will try to milk the landlord for all he's worth! One of the greatest things is having your gas bills paid for during the dead of winter! Just make sure not to abuse your privileges! Oh...when will Davey learn?

To see the beginning to this genius scheme, see the post from February 25th.

March 04, 2009

2009-03-04T10:58:00.011-05:00

Everyone knows the story of Howard Hughes, but more about his downfall into madness. He notoriously would spend months at a time completely quarantined in a room, watching reels of movies over and over, obsessing over every frame. In July 1946, Hughes crashed his XF-11 into three houses in a Beverly Hills neighborhood. Hushes sustained significant injuries, including a crushed collar bone, 14 broken ribs, and numerous third degree burns. As you see the many bottles of pills on his end table, many attribute his long-term addiction to opiates to his use of morphine as a painkiller during his indisposition. It is believed that this addiction compounded the symptoms of Hughes' obsessive-compulsive disorder.

He was surrounded by dozens of Kleenex boxes, which he continuously stacked and re-arranged. He wrote detailed memos to his aides on yellow legal pads giving them explicit instructions not to look at him, speak to him, and only to respond when spoken to. Throughout the duration, Hughes sat fixated in his chair, often naked, continuously watching movies, reel after reel, day after day. When he finally emerged in the Spring of 1948, his hygiene was terrible, as he had not bathed or cut his hair and nails for weeks. Many believe that during these months he was suffering a massive nervous breakdown and did not want anyone to know about it. Still though, even after leaving, he would soon return to various bouts of secluded madness, forever banishing himself from the public eye.

For me, the most interesting aspect of Hughes' neuroses was his heightened germaphobia. "Not only did he refuse to touch doorknobs, he imagined he could create a germ free zone for himself by means of what he called 'insulation,', layers of Kleenex and paper towels covering anything he touched. To prevent what he called a 'backflow' of germs, he mandated procedures for handling everything he came in contact with." from, Encyclopedia Neurotica, by Jon Winokur.

Due to his all over power among people there are no pictures of him in these times of madness. SO, I pretty much winged it with how he looked during these early times of intense seclusion. Hughes is such an interesting character in American history. We attribute so much on his modern and brilliant approaches to business, both in the motion picture industry, and more importantly in commercial air travel. He lived and suffered like this for the last thirty years of his life, to which many professionals credit Hughes for surviving so long while sustaining so many illnesses. He carried his empire close to the end, and only Hughes, in his utter brilliance, was able to find a way to keep it all afloat.

By the way, that's 5 Kleenex's each on the arms on his chair. Apparently, that's how he liked it.

March 03, 2009

2009-03-03T13:12:00.006-05:00

OK, I swear...this will be the last pirate piece for a while. It's just that when you do a drawing of a pirate, there are TONS of different ways to illustrate the character and the scene. Quite a fun topic to explore.

March 02, 2009

2009-03-02T12:22:00.006-05:00

I don't know about all you Utilisaurusheads out there, but here in NYC it is AWFUL out. We got a massive amount of snow last night, which always makes going out for anything absolutely MISERABLE! After getting to the office, the last thing you want to do is sit there, knowing you have to go back out in it hours later. Davey just got it out of the way, faked it with the boss, and went home to a toasty, comfy couch. You can't tell me that everyone hasn't pulled a fast one with the boss at least once in their lives? Hey, we all deserve at least one!

The Age of Prosperity #14

If you're digging the comic, check out AOP #1-13 throughout the Blog. Just click on the tag, "The Age of Prosperity" (below), and they'll all be in your face for enjoyment in less than a second! Thanks for checking em out!

March 01, 2009

2009-03-01T12:38:00.002-05:00

Sweet! March! My favourite month of the year! Anyways, I thought I'd start of the third month of consecutive posts with showing more into my two day pirate fixation! I think it'd be super fun and interesting to learn more about these secluded dock/pier communities that existed during the golden age of sea exploration and travel.

February 28, 2009

2009-02-28T12:01:00.009-05:00

Pirates are really interesting and visually spectacular characters, and I realized that I never drew any...not since I was a tot at least. There are a plethora of random people to draw...so get ready for more pirate attempts from time to time. We see some crow's nest action happening in this first piece.

FOR ALL YOUR BREEZY NEEDS, SEE YESTERDAY ILLUSTRATION FRIDAY POST.

On a random note, yesterdays Pearls Before Swine daily calendar strip was way to close to my personality. Not necessarily my failure at getting dates, but in all types social situations. I thought this strip was too funny not to post. Stephan Pastis...please don't sue!

February 27, 2009

2009-02-27T11:16:00.005-05:00

ILLUSTRATION FRIDAY - BREEZY
Though he was able to curb high high levels of Mysophobia with the impenetrable power of the plastic bubble, he was unable to prevent the larger problem...a nice summer breeze. I guess I have a little bit of Wile E. Coyote stored in my sub-conscious, due to the fact that the first thing I thought of bringing the whole drawing together was a cliffs edge. His impending doom left me laughing to myself at the drawing table.

February 26, 2009

2009-02-26T12:53:00.005-05:00

I don't know why, but I love being in the super Hasidic areas here in Brooklyn. I think it's because I find different religions so fascinating, mainly learning more about the different lifestyles and various historic events. Anyways, my new agents office is in the Williamsburg area here in Brooklyn, so every week or two, I swear I sometimes feel like I'm in a different country or something, with a massive amount of Jewish establishments and everything written in Hebrew...it's a cheap "international" trip. Very fun.

February 25, 2009

2009-02-25T10:48:00.008-05:00

Through the proclamation that, people who aren't experiencing the recession shouldn't complain about it, I say "go to town, Davey!" At least for me, he's become quite an enlightened face in these dismal times.

The Age of Prosperity #13

The Age of Prosperity #14

PLUS...The FABULOUS group of illustrators, from the US and Canada that I'm a part of, The Sketch Motel has DOMINATED everything that is the promotional mailer! Check out the PDF of the posters that were printed. Quite entertaining!

THE SKETCH MOTEL SUPER VILLAINS!

February 24, 2009

2009-02-24T12:35:00.006-05:00

Happy Birthday to my good friend, Lenny Kenyon, for whom I made this illo. He mentioned really liking the post from January 8th, SO, i thought, in the spirit of the recession, this birthday deserved an original...because it cost me nothin!

If you look at the sketch, you'll see one little difference. I bet you won't even see it! Sarcasm is terrible when you're typing.

February 23, 2009

2009-02-23T11:38:00.006-05:00

For years and years, he always remembered that on his first day at school, his mother made him wear the shirt with the stripes colored like the august grass, reminding him of the summertime shenanigans during his first period arithmetic class.

February 22, 2009

2009-02-22T17:14:00.004-05:00

The Age of Prosperity #12

If only we all could be as smooth as Davey.

To see other moments of Davey wooing the ladies, check out the posts on February 15th & February 8th.

© The Age of Prosperity, 2009

February 21, 2009

2009-02-21T18:15:00.007-05:00

This is a character that's been in my head for a while. I actually did a kid very similar to him in this illo from Louisville Magazine, so I thought a proper character illo was in order.

February 20, 2009

2009-02-20T11:06:00.003-05:00

ILLUSTRATION FRIDAY - INSTINCT
Even though the entrepreneur badge is part of the life force that is the badge sash, she couldn't resist her childlike instinct that is thin mints + consumption = pure bliss.

Reposted from February 12, 2009

On a really random note...I was going through my old piles of papers in my studio and came upon an illustration I did in college. I scanned part of it, cause I think it's still funny seeing chickens holding signs that say "wanker". It part of a piece from my thesis where I did a series of illos based on different Mad Libs that people did. good times.

February 19, 2009

2009-02-19T12:42:00.005-05:00

With all the steroid drama that is drowning the sport that I truly LOVE, the commissioner of baseball might as well let all those giants living atop the beanstalks a shot at the pros.

February 18, 2009

2009-02-18T11:58:00.005-05:00

But as he dozed, his teeth all conspired,
They’d had enough, they’d all grown tired.

A bicuspid cried, “Boys lets quit.”
So they packed their gums, skedaddled and split.

Gilbert woke just then and to his dread,
He found his teeth marching away, fleeing across his bed.

The third and final illo from the wonderfully creative world, "Little Gilbert Dentin Bleach", by my good friend Lenny K.

February 17, 2009

2009-02-17T11:33:00.005-05:00

“You need to brush every night,”
“I’ll be checking, so do it right!”

“Now march upstairs right to the sink,”
“I’ll tuck you in, in just a wink.”

More from, "Little Gilbert Dentin Bleach", by my good friend Lenny K.

COME ONE COME ALL!!
Lenny entered a McNally Jackson’s first annual children’s book contest last month. Eight authors won. He is one of them.

This Saturday, Lenny will be reading “The Boy Who Would Not Brush” for a panel of judges, authors, and the general public.

Where?
McNally Jackson Books
52 Prince Street.
(Between Mulberry and Lafayette)
New York, NY 10012

When?
11:45 a.m

BE THERE OR BE A BIG OL' SQUARE!

To see more of Lenny Kenyon's entertainingly creative mind, check out his fun FUN blog!

February 16, 2009

2009-02-16T20:06:00.015-05:00

Chomping, slurping, munching, nibbles,
Sipping sugar fizzies and rainbow tart dribbles.

You’ll be sorry young man, his mother warned,
“Heed what the Dentist said last Monday morn.”

Written by my good friend Lenny K, an excerpt from his critically acclaimed story, "Little Gilbert Dentin Bleach".

CHECK OUT LENNY K AND ALL HIS GLORY HERE!

February 15, 2009

2009-02-15T13:59:00.007-05:00

So, here is the finished piece for the private commission I mentioned yesterday. I am very pleased with the result, and believe it will live as a great tribute to his feline companion.

Still, The Utilisaurus isn't all about the gloomy illos...so for a lighter touch, here is the newest strip from, THE AGE OF PROSPERITY!

The Age of Prosperity #11

© The Age of Prosperity, 2009

ONE MORE THING! As I was featured in my hometown newspaper this past week, another paper from the adjacent town reprinted the article, as well as including my Beatles illo. It's been really nice getting some recognition from my old community, and I'm very thankful.

February 14, 2009

2009-02-14T14:10:00.006-05:00

I'm working on the finishing touches on a private commission, which can be seen here in the sketch phase. I was asked to do the piece for a person who's cat just passed, and who's sibling took it quite badly. My heart sure went out to this person, since I'm overly attached to my two kitties. I'll post the finish tomorrow. Happy Valentines Day you Utilisaurusheads!

Anyone interested in a private commission, please feel free to drop me an email, and we can discuss the project further!

February 13, 2009

2009-02-13T10:43:00.027-05:00

ILLUSTRATION FRIDAY-CELEBRATE

The only way he can think to CELEBRATE this turn of events is to forever capture his date in a photograph. The prom photo...a celebrated trophy for all the dweebs of high school!

Reposted from January 14, 2009

February 12, 2009

2009-02-12T16:59:00.005-05:00

I don't know if the idea to draw some girl scouts came to me randomly, or was stored in my subconscious, but if you look back at the post from one month ago on January 12th, you'll see some boy scout friends...ironic?

Which of the two do you prefer? The Utilisaurus is sustained with lots o' feedback!

February 11, 2009

2009-02-11T09:57:00.007-05:00

I know it's looking like our skateboarder friend here is going to acquire a broken RIGHT arm on this stunt...but don't be too quick to assume. I smell a 180 kickflip in action over the staircase...I'm sure he'll land it.

Oh, by the way...That's the cartoon character Bloo from Foster's Home for Imaginary Friends on the bottom of his board. I love that cartoon character, and he was on my mind when I was drawing this earlier.

February 10, 2009

2009-02-10T12:07:00.004-05:00

Geez, I don't know where I was going with this one! I know I planned on going in to the drawing by just doing a diseased kid in a bubble or something, but soon I was thinking all Wile E Coyote like with the cliffs and whatnot...then it soon turned into a kid, in his germ free bubble flying out of control near the cliffs edge. I know the classic Wile E. Coyote/Road Runner scenes involves complex and ludicrous devices from a mail-order company, the Acme Corporation...but I'm sure an in-expensive, simple plastic bubble would've been the perfect solution!

February 09, 2009

2009-02-09T11:51:00.012-05:00

Yesterday concluded the New York City Comic Con, and as much as I belong and fit in there completely, I can't resist the urge to draw some funny convention kids. The con has become WAY more than just a grouping of industry fans, but is now a great place to showcase your work, comic style or not. Animators, Advertisers, and of course the comic industry is there, booths ready to take a look at the talent that hasn't yet been given a chance.

By the way, the shorter kid is wearing a Superman costume. Curse the B&W line drawing!

Oh, and by the way...my hometown newspaper, The Evening Sun wrote an article about me and my work. I used to do editorial cartoons years ago when I was a student...it sure was a fun way to make $10.
LINK TO ARTICLE!

February 08, 2009

2009-02-08T19:15:00.002-05:00

I just returned from seeing the SPECTACULARLY AMAZING claymation film, Colaline. For all you Utilisaurusheads who are stimulated by anything wonderfully creative...see this film, again...again...and AGAIN!

The Age of Prosperity #10

© The Age of Prosperity, 2009

February 07, 2009

2009-02-07T13:48:00.004-05:00

I was never in a school that had the snobby hall monitor kid, but I'm sure this is what he would've looked like. To see more in the "High School" series, click the link in the tabs. The Jocks, the Model UN club...they're all here.

For this weeks Illustration Friday posting, see below...or click the link!

February 06, 2009

2009-02-06T11:37:00.005-05:00

ILLUSTRATION FRIDAY - TIME
From the Utilisaurus vaults, here we see the re-posting of January 25th's piece, which works pretty well with today's topic. Einstein showed that space is curved, time is relative, and time travel is theoretically possible.

Feeling a little more care-free on this Friday, then may I present you all with...THE AGE OF PROSPERITY #9!

© The Age of Prosperity, 2009

February 05, 2009

2009-02-05T11:57:00.005-05:00

As we sit back and see the past come back and invade our lives, I'm just waiting to see when the whole flock haircut will be back in style. I have my can of mousse and keytar ready to go.

February 04, 2009

2009-02-04T13:38:00.007-05:00

Some days, I think Huckleberry Finn knew exactly what was important in life. Boy, what I would give for some meditating days in the wilderness.

February 03, 2009

2009-02-03T12:28:00.010-05:00

I think today's sketchbook illo is a little hit or miss. I believe it depicts the specific individual, but it could've been a little more accurate. Still though, mention BEETS, and you most of you will know who it is.

For all of you Utilisaurus viewers who are less impressed with todays piece, I present you with The Age of Prosperity, Strip #8!

© The Age of Prosperity, 2009

February 02, 2009

2009-02-02T11:51:00.011-05:00

For all you Utilisaurheads out there, who toss and turn at night wondering, "Is Matthew Smith is his real name, or is he some type double agent?" Well...ANSWERS!! I just did an interview for Altpick, and it in all it's glory can be seen HERE!

I have another character study here. I based this guy loosely on my childhood friend...i guess it might be a good thing that we've lost touch.

February 01, 2009

2009-02-01T15:03:00.004-05:00

WOO! New month! I believe January was a successful month in introducing and maintaining the early stability of the blog! It's looking like February will be quite an entertaining venture.

Yesterday, my girlfriend participated in the NYC Idiotarod with her work friends, posing as the group "The Oregon Trail of Dead". SO, in honor of their tiresome journey through the Boroughs, here we see the optimism of the thousands of individuals and families, showing an individual pausing on the long migration west...alongside his trusted Conestoga Wagon.

January 31, 2009

2009-01-31T11:01:00.007-05:00

Here are two BRAND NEW strips of The Age of Prosperity. Here we can see the classic situations that seem to forever fill Davey's life...debt stress, and scamming the man.

Strip#6

Strip #7

© The Age of Prosperity, 2009

For this weeks Illustration Friday posting, "FLAWED", check out the post from January 30. January 30, 2009.

January 30, 2009

2009-01-30T11:54:00.009-05:00

ILLUSTRATION FRIDAY - FLAWED
In addition to the new Hamlet sketchbook illo for today (left), I'm reposting The Beethoven page from January 15th. Since this weeks theme is focused on something characterized as flawed, and I happen to have picture of a notorious FLAWED genius, I thought this is a good enough interpretation for this weeks theme. Oh, and ear horns are way harder to draw that I thought.

January 29, 2009

2009-01-29T12:16:00.008-05:00

I've been experiencing some "blah" moments the past week, and boy...nothing would be more therapeutic then a nice wilderness camping/hiking trip. Anything to get out of the city for a few days would be wonderful...but alas, I cannot. I'm forever grateful of the magic that drawing has. During the half an hour it took me to draw this...I could hear the breeze rustling through the trees.

That's not me in the drawing by the way. I don't rock the stylin' hippie ponytail.

January 28, 2009

2009-01-28T12:16:00.011-05:00

I wish they had Model UN at my high school...I know I would've considered joining. I mean...we all know those UN skills are crazy useful in illustration!

January 27, 2009

2009-01-27T11:57:00.010-05:00

So I thought of another idea for a series in this long, LONG project I've endured. I thought of illustrating different groups, individuals, or whomever that make up all the different high school cliques. I figure it's a fun idea, it leaves me with at least 10 different concepts to draw, and it'll be even more great practice on interpreting all the different weird looking people in the world.

I've got two jock-ish friends/teammates here. Alright everyone...expect to be visiting the AV club any day now.

January 26, 2009

2009-01-26T11:43:00.010-05:00

I've been getting a few comments and emails lately regarding my comic, THE AGE OF PROSPERITY, and I couldn't be more thrilled! I've become really psyched about this project, so for today's posting, I present you with strips #4 & #5, along with inked character drawings of Luke(L) and Davey(R). Please let me know what you guys think of the comic...I'd really like to get some people as into it as I am...well, that might be a little too much, but you know what I mean!

The STUDLY cast of The Age of Prosperity

Strip #4

Strip #5

© The Age of Prosperity, 2009

January 25, 2009

2009-01-25T12:22:00.012-05:00

INSPIRATION SERIES, #2 - Albert Einstein
I'm a big fan of science, mainly the discoveries and breakthroughs of the early 20th century...and with a big interest in theoretical physics, I draw inspiration from Einstein. I'm not necessarily saying that Einstein inspires my art because of his mathematical models and advancement in the core of physics, but it's mainly due to his sheer dedication to the field, overlooking dozens of very vocal opponents to his theories...and knowing in his mind and heart he had the answer.

THE AGE OF PROSPERITY

Now, there are some people who use their sheer brilliance more towards surviving, finding their next meal under any circumstances...which as we see from Davey, is pretty extreme! Hey, the economy may be sitting right next to that old pie he found in the dumpster!

© The Age of Prosperity, 2009 - Strip #3

The Age of Prosperity #1
The Age of Prosperity #2

January 24, 2009

2009-01-24T15:47:00.006-05:00

Brace yourself...cause here is yet another character design study!! Everybody knows, or has at last seen a 40+ year old 1980's rock star, or mediocre rock star who is still trying to live in that existence. Soon, he's car pooling his kids to their brownie troop meeting, telling his them and all their friends about this time his band toured with Whitesnake or something. I'm really pleased with this character...I'm sure I'll elaborate more on him in the future.

To get your CLIMBING on, Illustration Friday style...please click the link, or scroll to yesterdays posting.

January 23, 2009

2009-01-23T10:55:00.012-05:00

So, I was up almost all last night, watching the Australian Open, (curse the 16 hour time difference)...and decided to work on a color version of yesterdays sketchbook posting.

ILLUSTRATION FRIDAY - CLIMBING
I don't know if I'm stretching it with this topic, but I'm approaching climbing as more in the aspect of rising through the competition. To ascend, or to take an even more literal definition, "To move oneself upward, especially by using the hands and feet". SO, in using sheer athletics, discipline, and wicked amounts of talent...the best overcome their opponents, to CLIMB up the ladder that is the Grand Slam! Let's all just pretend that "using the hands and feet" is intended to represent people playing tennis...I mean, that's all what we thought they meant, right?

Sketch from post, "January 22, 2009".

January 22, 2009

2009-01-22T11:26:00.026-05:00

I am a ridiculous tennis fan, and thanks to the SPECTACULAR matches that have been played in the first week of the 2009 season at The Australian Open in Melbourne, The Utilisaurus is pleased to present an action packed, WICKED BACKHAND SLICE!

Check out that sweet free product placement on his T-shirt!
I've been told that Nike is eternally grateful.

ALSO, strips #1 & #2 of The Age of Prosperity can see seen below, or by clicking the links. Please continue to stop by and explore lots more!

The Age of Prosperity strip #1

The Age of Prosperity strip #2

January 21, 2009

2009-01-21T11:32:00.010-05:00

Throughout my life, I believe I've drawn and experienced the magic of thousands of places, people, and random worlds to encounter. I really thought hard about it, and I'm pretty positive that this is only the second wild west drawing I've ever done...EVER. I can remember the last drawing I did under this theme, but I was six years old...so I guess I'm well due. It's such a random community/time period to draw, and there were TONS of great characters that all ended up at the ye olde Saloon, which I know I'll be visiting again sometime soon.

If that wasn't enough Utilisaurus overload...then, I give you the second appearance of, THE AGE OF PROSPERITY!

In this strip, we see the emergence of the other recurring character, Davey's roommate, Luke.

LUKE- Always a friend first, he often takes on the role as therapist, or a somewhat voice of reason in Davey’s life. As we all know things that we wish weren’t true about the unfairness that is being a grown-up, Luke usually ends up being the one to deliver this crucial blow of truth..., which in the end is always the right thing. Still, no one can be perfect all the time, and we soon see Luke eventually drawn into Davey’s new ways of scamming some opportunity to make things just a little bit easier in both their lives. But then, just as things turn up badly, Luke can often be the one sitting there, with the shivering parental voice of, “I told you so.”

© The Age of Prosperity, 2009 - Strip #2

January 20, 2009

2009-01-20T14:43:00.009-05:00

HAPPY INAUGURATION DAY!

So, in honor of the great moment in history, I'm adding another fun addition to The Utilisaurus! I'm asked my many MANY MANY people, who and what inspire me and my work. SO...throughout some random posts, I'll be illustrating a page of what and who really get me working like mad! Please stay tuned for more daily posts, and more additions to The Inspiration Series!

INSPIRATION SERIES, #1 - Walt Disney
The Groundbreaking Dreamer in the world of cartooning.

January 19, 2009

2009-01-19T12:36:00.019-05:00

So thanks to EVERYONE once again for stopping by the blog, commenting, and even some are going so far as to become FOLLOWERS to the great Utilisaurus! Now, they are the lucky few to be updated every time I post a brand stylin' new illo...which as you all can see, is pretty frequent.

Here is another character study, which relates to the concept as seen on January 13th. I focused in on one character, to show different action shots and poses. Once again, the character is a little toned town stylistically, which can be a good thing from time to time.

So, if all the cartoon action today isn't enough for you, here also is the beginning of various posts of my newly created, self published comic strip, THE AGE OF PROSPERITY!

The Age of Prosperity is a strip, focused primarily on the life of newly graduated, student loan drowning, penny pinching, dumpster diving 24 year old, Davey. So much more about this character and others will unfold throughout the daily posts, which will be posted at random times...SO, please stop by frequently. It'll be quite the relaxing and enjoyable 10 seconds in all our stressful, workaday lives...which you will soon be able to see, it's quite similar to Davey's!

© The Age of Prosperity, 2009 - Strip #1

January 18, 2009

2009-01-18T13:11:00.006-05:00

I think i nailed it on the punk girl, and need to try again with the two guys. It was the fishnet stockings that made her a winner.

January 17, 2009

2009-01-17T12:30:00.006-05:00

I don't know about you guys, but that sure does look like a Utilisaurus outside that cave.
To DOUBLE your pleasure, Illustration Friday style, click the link for all things "PALE".

January 16, 2009

2009-01-16T10:48:00.012-05:00

ILLUSTRATION FRIDAY - PALE
I don't know about you, but if I was flying, upside down, on a gravely road, in a rickety soapbox derby car...my face would be much more pale than this guys...which is quite pale, considering he's black and white pencil drawing!

OR, if you wish more for paleness based on lack of sunshine and fresh air...then look no further! Hiding deep in his fluorescent layer, the Couch Potato doesn't just stop villains with his vast knowledge of sitcoms, but also with his blinding paleness, which will leave any enemy blinded in their tracks!

From the post, "January 06, 2009"

January 15, 2009

2009-01-15T12:33:00.005-05:00

I'm not sure if Beethoven ever used an old school ear horn or not...i just really wanted to draw him using one...or at least attempt to draw one. They're harder to draw than I thought!

January 14, 2009

2009-01-14T13:01:00.005-05:00

Ah yes...the prom.
All I know is that this kid, I bet...will grow up to be some kind of studly millionaire illustrator.

January 13, 2009

2009-01-13T12:41:00.005-05:00

Oh man...it's been a tad bit slow in terms of commissions! Lot's of good sketchbook pieces are being banged out though...so I can see how it'll be worth it in the end.

Here are some children cartoon characters I tried out. It's a toned down version of my style...which may be easer to animate, if I'm ever asked to.

January 12, 2009

2009-01-12T10:49:00.005-05:00

Here's a piece for everyone who, like me, went through various emotional tolls when experiencing those freezing, uncomfortable, pain in the behind boy scout camping trips when we were tots. Still though, i think it'd be sorta neat to have worked towards Eagle scout...but seriously, who has that kind of discipline at 8 years old?!

January 11, 2009

2009-01-11T12:12:00.006-05:00

Thanks to all my new friends who have been coming by, commenting, and checking out the new daily postings! Keep em coming!

Here's a new WW2 one for today.

January 10, 2009

2009-01-10T12:05:00.011-05:00

I watched The Big Lebowski on Thursday...and in my attempt to shake bowling from my brain, I drew a Walter-like (John Goodman) character from the movie.

For my Illustration Friday submission, see yesterdays posting, (or click the link), for all things "contained".

January 09, 2009

2009-01-09T10:47:00.012-05:00

ILLUSTRATION FRIDAY - CONTAINED (see below)
Here is a re-posting of the sketchbook piece from 01/05. I believe it works well with this weeks Illustration Friday topic, and thusly...here is the encore appearance of the Houdini character...with his wonderful interpretation of the word, "contained".

January 08, 2009

2009-01-08T12:52:00.004-05:00

I think it's due time for another worldwide chess phenomenon, like a Bobby Fischer type of celebrity....without all the Antisemitism that is!

January 07, 2009

2009-01-07T10:38:00.006-05:00

I have an massive amount of interest in images, film, history, fashion, lifestyle, science, art, etc. with the early-mid 20th century, and thusly...here is the American family of the mid-1960's.

January 06, 2009

2009-01-06T11:03:00.003-05:00

No one knows the mystery of The Couch Potato's birth. Many believe he was formed through couch fibers, and cheese wiz, others believe he is a product of TV executives. Either way, the myth of the couch potato does not under-mind the sheer evil of this master of reruns.

January 05, 2009

2009-01-05T13:07:00.004-05:00

January 04, 2009

2009-01-04T16:00:00.005-05:00

January 03, 2009

2009-01-03T19:17:00.004-05:00

January 02, 2009

2009-01-02T14:10:00.003-05:00

January 01, 2009

2009-01-01T16:43:00.006-05:00

So, after a wonderful holiday break/vacation...Matthew Smith Illustration is back in business, with two new posts. Continue to check out the blog daily, for a new, thrilling piece from The Utilisaurus!

January 01, 2009

December 31, 2008

December 24, 2008

2008-12-24T11:43:00.001-05:00

I've been vacationing for the holidays, and will be back to daily posting around the new year. get ready...it'll be stupendous!

Happy Holidays!

December 19, 2008

2008-12-19T11:23:00.005-05:00

December 18, 2008

2008-12-18T12:43:00.005-05:00

December 17, 2008

2008-12-17T11:43:00.003-05:00

December 16, 2008

2008-12-16T12:35:00.004-05:00

I'm not a spiritually religious person, but I am a huge admirer of religious art and history. So, in the spirit of the holiday season, I attempted a Madonna and child sketchbook piece for today.

December 15, 2008

2008-12-15T11:07:00.005-05:00

December 14, 2008

2008-12-14T12:04:00.005-05:00

December 13, 2008

2008-12-13T12:28:00.005-05:00

December 12, 2008 - and so it begins.

2008-12-12T12:58:00.013-05:00

So, in an attempt to open the public's eye to all the work I do when I'm not commissioned for an illo...here is the start to my second blog, The Utilisaurus. The idea is for me to utilize my time, create and post a new sketchbook piece for every day that I am not making something superb for a client. I thought of the idea a few days ago, so I posted a few extras...just to be caught up with everything.

In the mean time, please keep checking out my business blog, The Illusauri, for all new updates in the world of Matthew Smith Illustration.

December 12, 2008

December 11, 2008

December 10, 2008