Inspiration!

This drawing by Jeff Dee comes real close to capturing the essence of my EOC idea. I just saw this posted over at Back in '81 (props!) and remembered Dee's work on the "Queen of the Demonweb Pits adventure module. I'd sort of gotten down on myself about how I was going to solve some composition issues in my idea, and this is such a great pose--that I was inspired to think about it in a different way. I really love the facial expression too--perfectly exhibits his dilemma dontcha' think?

Now, my idea was to have a wizard with one last charge--so he's not quite at 'fizzle' but I imagine he would have a similar expression. Also, I like his proximity to the viewer.

Assuming my skills can be improved upon--given the time constraints--I'd love to pay homage to Mr. Dee's whimsical work!

Random Sketch 04: Egyptian Wizard

Now this guy has something happening! I'm not sure what I was doing here--it wasn't Marvelesque--but I do think that I sort of captured the spirit of the character on his own. To be honest, I'm not thrilled with his caricature-like features (big shoulders, tiny legs, etc.) but I do like his face and I dig the hat. When it comes to drawing, I'm much more a fan of stylized realism ala Alex Raymond. Something a little more straight-laced and less cartoony (e.g., super-deformed). Though, I admit there are exeptions.

I recently picked up a War Gods miniature that's kind of in the same vein. I dig the idea of an wizard from an ancient land like Egypt where the magic is truly arcane and probably a little bit scary!

I gave this guy a familiar in the form of a sacred ibis, an Egyptian crane that was worshiped and highly revered. It seemed to make an ideal partner for a desert conjurer. Sort of like an owl playing the wingman to the European wizard template.

I also gave the wiz an Egyptian ceremonial staff instead of the traditional magic wand or rod, again to lend a more conscious allusion to his creed.

Random Sketch 03: Meet Bruno Knickerbocker!

This was another attempted Marvel pose. Better than the previous Marvel-inspired ninja figure. I have this weird problem with feet and legs. Sometimes they turn out, other times their just mis-shapen. In any case, Bruno deserves better!

I picture him as a sort of pulp-action hero, who can throw haymaker punches and....sports a nice scarf. (Apparently).

**Sigh**