Resources: Vector Tutorials

Hi guys,

Here are some neato vector tutorials:

Figure Shading: when less is more, by Russel Tate. Ever wonder how people use gradients to shade vector illustrations? Because I totally have. A nice explanation by Russel Tate try to ignore the fact it's associated with istock.

From sketch to vector illustration by William Beachy is about Beach's process from sketch to vector illustration. What I think is most useful here is how he uses traditional comic inking "rules" to draw digitally.

Quick Tip: How to Cell Shade and add Texture to a Vector Comic Character is just like the man says.

Resources: free figure reference

Hi guys,

Here's a really, really amazing resource: CharacterDesign.com has free, high quality figure reference (obviously NSFW).

Here is a sample of their new zombie vs. schoolgirls set:

Resources: Kathryn Adams Top Promo FAQs

Promo refresher, Q and A from illustrator and super-teacher Kathryn Adams at over at Nook's blog: Kathryn Adams Top Promo FAQs

Resources: Nook Collective

I recently went to a lecture at Nook Collective at 156 Augusta. The lecture was by a really great illustrator and all-around-guy named Leif Peng who runs the blog Today's Inspiration.

The Nook is a really neat group studio that is also holds workshops on mysterious things like Final Cut Pro and self promotion (by Kathryn Addams!). Some workshops are free, some are modestly priced, all are worth checking out! Find their schedule at their website Nook Collective

Resources: (free?) 3D figure reference software

Read about it at Laser Biscuit. Download here. So check it out and let us know what you think!

Also, the public library has figure reference books that come with CDs - you can transfer these CD images to your hardrive. Search keywords "figure reference" and get the books transferred to your local branch. I'm just sayin'.

Resources: Computer Arts Self Promotion Issue

Hey Critters,

The latest issue of Computer Arts is all about self promotion.

As always, useful stuff on their Tutorials page.

Resources: Blogs and Websites

Hi guys!

This post is about some cool blogs and websites you might want to check out:

Today's Inspiration, illustration from the 40s and 50s lovingly managed by Leifpeng who is also a great illustrator in his own right.

Animation Archive, a digital archive (and actual physical museum/library) devoted to animation and illustration art. You don't have to be a member to browse a huge selection of digitally archived art. They also have a podcast.

Gurney Journey, a blog by James Gurney (creator of Dinotopia, hellz yeah!). If you're into it, he has a few books out on realistic fantasy painting and lots of neat painting and drawing advice on his blog. Also a really accomplished fine artist.

Alexis

Resources: Organizing Background Layout Elements

Hey guys!

John K. is an amazing animator (Ren and Stimpy, you guuyyss!) and he posts all sorts of interesting observations and advice on his blog. I came across a really great post about the ins and outs of layout organization which I thought some of you might find useful. See the post here.

Another one about positive/negative space can be found here.

Alexis

Resources: Comic Inkers Blog

Here's something cool, a blog by a group of professional comic inkers: Inkers.org. It looks to be pretty dead but there are a handful of great posts to look at, including step-by-step inking and a couple of time lapse video.