By conventional standards, I went ahead and did something stupid on Thursday: I bought some brushes and an ink pot from Blick. I’d been meaning to do so for some time; I figured I’d start with a brush pen (preferably Pentel), get comfortable with that, then try the traditional materials. A tweet from Gordon McAlpin of Multiplex (for whom I did a guest strip last July) recommended jumping straight into brush inking; a trial by fire, if you will. Although I admire the hell out of people who can wield one, using a brush always scared the hell out of me. I was never good at painting, if I screwed up I was boned, spilled ink ain’t a fun time, etc. On the other hand, I’m never truly happy without a pigheaded challenge, so after diddling around a bit, here are the first real fruits of my labor! (Click for larger pictures.)
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Daniel, with minor corrections.
1951 MG convertible, with no corrections.
So far I’m digging it. It feels natural and flexible, like I could take it far with enough practice. Don’t look for any inked Wighthouse strips in the near future, but if I’m feeling punchy enough, you’ll probably see worthwhile experiments go up in the gallery!
I think the car looks really good, by the way!
thanks! I figured the sweeping curves of an old antique would be a good exercise.