Compromise

"I'm a test this out on y'all right quick. Now keep in mind that I'm an artist and I'm sensitive about my shit."- Erykah Badu

I've been thinking about the word "compromise" recently and how it applies to my craft. On one hand, compromise can be a positive word, expressed when trying to bring a mutually beneficial end to a difference of opinions. On the other, it's a dirty word used to paint a picture of someone's shameful concession on a strong personal view.

Often times the latter definition pops up in art (whether music, illustration, etc) as a synonym for a person "selling out". "How could he write a song/make that movie/draw a book for that company? He just did it for a quick buck"- they say. Well, I find myself in that position now, as I unveil an alternative to a piece I did that I swore I wouldn't change.

With the burning passion of artistic independence coursing through my veins I drew my original Truth piece(seen here)

with the thought that whoever doesn't get it can kiss my ass. Then came the idea of using the piece as part of my new line of shirts, but after talking with some friends, and having a woman make the statement that I'm objectifying women, I started thinking long and hard about what will serve the greater good- my artistic free will...or a compromise. Would I be selling out by taming my piece? Would I become a hollow artist just looking for the quickest dollar?

So here's my compromise. I still stand by my original feelings and the message of the piece. I feel the ideal and concept is intact, and I would like to think I fall under the "bringing a mutually beneficial end to a difference of opinions" category. I welcome all thoughts on the matter. .

Thanks.
Shawn

Reflection Eternal

"The name of the game...Persistence, dedication,Consistent motivation/Resistance to stagnation..."- Reflection Eternal

It's been a month since my birthday, and even though I don't celebrate them, I received a special gift-- the gift of Truth. When some business associates revealed themselves to not necessarily have my best interests at heart, this gift made me really look at who was there for me..and who wasn't.

One of those peeps who was there for me was Takeia Dunlop. An on-the-rise artist who recently started a new blog site where she plans to do interviews, showcase art, etc. Well Kia (as I call her) crazily asked me to help launch it by being the first interviewee. Click below to see the awesomeness of how she constructed the blog.
http://spraypaintandinkpens.com/

Some other people that were there for me were all the peeps who ordered prints and commissions from me. Unfortunately some matters arose which stopped me from mailing everything as quickly as I wanted, but EVERYONE was mad cool and supper patient. I can't thank you all for your support and forgiveness enough.

This gift also made me realize I wasn't doing all I could to push myself, my business, and my art to higher levels.

So, I started a watercolor course. Color has always vexed me, and I realized I needed to add some weapons to the arsenal so-to-speak.Simply put, this shit is hard! But I'll keep at it and post some pics soon.

Then, I started thinking outside the local comic scene on places to vend. This lead me to the 17th Annual Locks Conference here in Philly, where I'll be vending Oct1st and 2nd. Check the link for all the details.

http://www.locksconference.com/

But you know I can't leave my fellow comic book/geek fam alone for long.I just received my confirmation for my table at the New York Anime Fest, Oct. 13th-16th, where I'll debuting a new project called A Crown of Horns I'm working on for John Cullins, as well as new prints.
http://www.newyorkcomiccon.com/en/NYAF/

Here's a little tease of that new project for ya.

Thanks for reading and make sure you call a real friend today.
Peace.

S

Art For Sale Pt2

Hey peeps, it's time for me to open the gates once again and offer the second wave of posters for sale. This allows you the opportunity to purchase artwork from the safety and comfort of your home without having to lug to a convention.
Before I post the pics though, here's the link for the blog that contained the first set of posters:
http://shawnah-lean.blogspot.com/2011/07/art-for-sale.html
Details for purchasing will be below the artwork. Enjoy and thank you in advance for your support.

Snake Eyes vs Stormshadow
11x17- Special LOW price of $10!!
Colors: Blair Smith

Breakout- Batman vs Clayface
14x20/$20
Colors: Blair Smith

StreetFighter- Cammy Attention
14x20/$20
Colors: Renee Clarke

Deadpool vs Afro Samurai
11x17- Special LOW price of $10!!
Colors: Blair Smith

Hip Hop Tribute- H.E.R Truth
14x20/$20
This is one of my most personal pieces of art to date...There is a much deeper meaning here than just a woman's body...she represents the BEAUTY and TRUTH of what REAL hip-hop is to me. Feel free to ask any questions before you judge.

Colors: Blair Smith

Dark Phoenix Embrace
14x20/$20
Colors: Blair Smith

X-Men Menage
14x20/$20
Colors: R`enee Clarke

StreetFighter- Sagat Tiger Strike
14x20/$20
Colors: Renee Clarke

 

 

 

What's that you say? How can you get yours? Just choose your fav(s), email me with your order, send your payment, wait for glorious art to arrive. See..? Easy!
There's even a chance your order might include some free stuff. No promises though.

Here's the full breakdown:
*All prints are either 11x17($10) or 14x18($20) and vary in price because of size.
* Yes, there is a deal for multiple orders: (2) 11x17 prints will only cost $15 and (2) 14x18 prints will only cost $30. Deals in crease if you purchase more stuff.
* An additional $5 will be added to orders to cover Shipping and Handling, with $1 extra for additional prints.(Please ask for international shipping rates.)
*All prints come signed and are on heavy duty card-stock paper.
* Orders can be placed through email or comment. Be sure to mention:
- Name of Print(s) you'd like
-Quantity
-Full Mailing Address
-Full Name
* Payment will be through Paypal but I am open to other forms
* Contact me at pyroglyphics1@comcast.net

Disclaimer:

* Please allow 2-3weeks from initial Order confirmation for Shipments-- I'm doing this myself and sometimes it takes a while to get everything together and/or wait for prints to arrive.

Once again, thank you all for you support in advance.

Peace.
Shawn
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