I Used To Love H.E.R

"I met this girl, when I was 10 years old/ And what I loved most, she had so much soul" - Common


Is there anything more perplexing yet at the same time as intoxicating as the mysterious being known as  "Woman"? I think not. Combine that with the just as illusive notion of what is "Hip-hop", and you have a potent mix.

Ever since I dropped my TRUTH piece I've been getting a lot of mixed reactions...and I love it. As I said on another site, the job of an artist is to invoke some kind of emotion, whether good or bad, and I feel I've accomplished that. Because of the piece(which was originally done to be a part of a hip-hop art show with the theme "What does hip-hop look like to you"), I've received a lot of inquires as to what the image really means, and what hidden gems are to be found. Here's the breakdown.

Questions:
1.) What does the gun which typically represents violence mean?
2.) What exactly is the "Truth" that She's spitting from Her mouth and bullets?
3.) What does H.E.R stand for in this instance?
4.) Is it necessary for Her to be naked for people to see/hear Her Truth?
5.) Do you believe one can fight overly sexualized imagery with more sexualized imagery?
6.) What's the significance of the nipple hardware?
7.) Why the beetle/insect(?) and the tentacles?
8.) Anything else I should be paying attention to?

Answer time:
1) Yes, a gun traditionally represents a weapon of destruction, but I chose to examine the basic mechanics of what a gun is, which is a tool used to rapidly propel something that will cause a major impact. The gun in this case is just a device to rapidly propel the bullets of Truth...to cause a major impact of awareness. Kill you with the truth metaphorically speaking.
2) The Truth She's spitting and projecting is "Realness", "Honesty of self", etc. Example: Eminem spitting about his life in a trailer park as opposed to pretending he grew up in some kind of drive by gang.
3) It stands for Hearing Every Rhyme's Truth
4) This has biblical connections. Adam and Eve only covered themselves when they developed the sensations of "shame" and "guilt". Before that they were "pure" and saw nothing wrong with their bodies.The nakedness here symbolizes Her comfort with self and lack of shame to expose Her natural beauty.(She's not completely naked due my personal sensibilities and the fact I wanted her clothes to represent a hip-hop aesthetic.)
5) My statement isn't about overly sexualized imagery, so I'm not fighting that. If I were fighting that, I DO see the difference as comparing sex to making love. Both very similar but it's the message and intent that separates the two.
6) As stated above, the nipple coverage is due to my personal censorship, I don't draw a lot of cheese-cake art, and I don't think nakedness for the sake of nakedness serves any purpose. At first I had Her nipples covered with pieces of tape-- but simple tape didn't do the piece justice-- so I designed some Egyptian themed brass covers to elevate the flair, and connect her ethnicity to Hip-hop, which has African(-American) roots.
7) Lol, not a beetle, that's a heart tattoo with ventricles/speaker cables. The message being wear your heart on your (sleeve)chest, and spit the Truth/Music from your heart. I didn't want to do a cartoony Valentine's day type of heart as once again I felt that wouldn't do the piece justice, so I went with an actual heart shape.
8) A few things to pay attention to-
a) The speaker wires going into her mouth, connecting her heart to her voice which is the other instrument needed to deliver the message.
b) The arrows in her hoody and jewelery which is a connection to graffiti, one of the 5 elements of hip-hop.
c) The Adinkra symbol for "energy" on her belt buckle, which in this case is another term for "power", which is strategically placed near Her "womanhood".
d) The mic being used as a silencer which ironically is an amplification device.

If anyone were to see something I missed let me know.

So there you have it..I hope you guys feel where I'm coming from and continue to follow me on my journey as an artist.

Peace.
P.S Shirts are available.

"But I'ma take her back hoping that the shit stop/ Cause who I'm talking bout y'all is hip-hop."- Common

Hot Tees

The Locks Conference was this past weekend and it was an amazing experience. This was my first time vending there and I didn't know what to expect, so that made things a little more nerve racking than usual. The vibe was more of a health and fashion expo, with people selling jewelery, hair care products, and such, and there I was with a comic book, and worse, no locks. lol
Things started off a little rocky, and I definitely had to sell myself a little more than usual, but it was completely worth it in the end. I'm already making plans next year on what new ways I can integrate my comic art style niche into the market. Besides that, I left feeling even more connected than ever to my African and Caribbean roots.
 

One of the new things I added to my convention was a raffle where you could win a framed piece of art.(A big congrats to all the winners). The other freshness I had at the show was my new set of Pyroglyphics shirts.They came out great and went over well, and now they're available for EVERYONE! As part of a special promotion, I'm offering the shirts at just $15, which INCLUDES S&H(!!) PLUS, you're automatically placed in a drawing to win one of those framed piece of original art I mentioned!! Supplies are limited so order yours today! Just contact me at pyroglyphics1@comcast.net

"Warrior" Sizes: Med, Lg, Xlg

"Truth" Sizes: Lg, Xlg

 

 

Look for more styles, colors and sizes coming soon.
And thank you for your continued support peeps..it means alot to this starving artist.

BTW, don't forget, starting today new blog updates every Monday, Wednesday and Friday.

Catch you later. Peace.

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
Like my page at www.facebook.com/PyroglyphicsStudio

Interview Who..?

...Me, that's who!
Since I'm still playing catch up here are links to some recent interviews and related topics all jumbled in one update.


First interview centers around an over-all Street Team Creators segment, with my spot recently uploaded courtesy of Will Satterwhite and www.Blacksuperhero.com
http://www.bsuperhero.blogspot.com/2011/08/5-questions-with-shawn-alleyne.html#more
(Will is a talented writer and artist who currently displays both of those talents, and more, as the creative power behind "Stealth: The World's Greatest Superhero Webcomic". http://stealthcomic.com/
Blacksuperhero.com, or BSH as it is affectionately referred to, is a fine site you should visit. Now where the hell's my check?!)

Not only does the interview feature some insight into what I do and how I do it, it showcases some exclusive art I won't be displaying anywhere else till next week.

>>>>>>>>>>>
Next up, a video interview I'm a part of from Chicago Comic Con. The good folks at Gamer Indepth are responsible for this one.
http://gamerindepth.net/2011/08/gis-roundtable-wizardworld-chicago-comicon-coverage-pt1/
My piece starts around the 10min mark but my art is featured at the beginning. Hopefully it plays better for you guys than it does for me.
(www.gamer-indepth.com)

>>>>>>>>>>>>>>
Next up, a quick podcast interview I did, also at the Chicago Con, by Rocking Comics.

Listen here: http://www.rockincomics.com/?p=486

Check out a quick video version of the show featuring a review they gave the Street Team book I'm involved with. Awesome Sauce!
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JfGUCC3yq8w&feature=youtu.be

And for the extended version head back to their regular podcast:
http://www.rockincomics.com/?p=499

>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>

And last but not least, if you haven't already, be sure to check out my art-centric facebook page: www.facebook.com/PyroglyphicsStudio and click the "like" button. Please. You'll love yourself for doing it. While you're there, hit me up on my regular site too: www.facebook.com/ShawnAlleyne1

Wheesh..I think that about does it for today. As always, thank you for taking the time to chek me out and for the continued support.

Till next time(probably tomorrow),
Peace.

Wizard World Chicago

I can't believe it's been over a month since I updated this blog. Where does the time go? Well, seeing as how there're earthquakes, hurricanes, more Drake songs and all kinds of other nasty shit signalling the end world is nigh, I guess I should post while the postings good.

Let's start with my trip to Wizard World Chicago a couple of weeks ago.

My trip was by train....advertised as 17hrs I felt that would be a cake-walk.

 

 

 

25 hrs later I finally reached my destination. My boy Joe Currie, fellow Street Team creator in the middle and Bryce, another artist I met on the train is on the right.

 

 

Outside in Chi-town.

After meeting some friends it was to my boy's house to pick up my con merchandise and then off to the con.

After the bus we had to take another train.

How far IS this damn convention?

Ahhh..finally, the goal is in site...Rosemont Con Center.

I've never done a show where there was a preview night. The line was already around the Center and it's only Thursday night.

Here we go..time to get to work.

We were late getting there..you can't see my face but I was already feeling flustered.

Ok...last minute checks...

And I'm ready to do this!!

The next 2 days were a blur...

Tons of people with cool outfits...

I love when co-players dress as lesser noticed characters. How sick is this Jubilee?

Although this Batman is pretty awesome as well.

By the time I knew it it was Friday night and we were having at this Cajun restaurant(no Gambit though). All of those were different hot sauces I believe.

Then a little Chicago night-life.

Oh...My...God!! Amazing!! I'm in love!

And before you know it it was time to be at the show again. After (kinda) meeting one legend, I got to meet another in the form of the mighty Geoff Darrow...and I was sitting behind him at the show!!! That look is me resisting leaping into his arms.

But now I'm back with my boys I can be a little more gansta.

Bryce came back to support that Street Team banger...and you should too.

Then, the blur occurred...

2 more days of awesome people...

Like this T2 robot...

...Yun and X-23

Cool people like the Chicago gaming ladies Sugar Gamers.

Fellow creators Yorli Huff, Jiba Anderson, Ashley, aannndddd..I forget..but she provided some awesome cookies.

Akuma..posing right in front of my StreetFigher Ryu piece.

Ravenger...

A centaur with a cooler for an ass

Gaara and....

Green Man!

Steampunk twist on Harley and Ivy..

Batman's rouges..

Some more Bat family...

GL!

Sub-zero...

Model for my boy's book..her abs are no joke!

Had to do a Green Goblin sketch and had no reference...till a guy walks past wearing a Spider-Man shirt.

And here's my quick sketch.

Shoutout to my boy Jason Metcalf, mega-talented and super nice artist who sat across from me at the show.

And Naruto.

Then..finally...it was Sunday...I tell you, a 4 day con is a marathon..

So I stopped of at Dunkin for my newest addiction, a Dunkinchino. Only thing was, this was the saddest version of a 'Chino I ever saw. I'm going to take a pic of a Philly version so you can see the difference.

My next door con neighbor Dusty who really hooked me up at the show.

And then it was back to the crowd...

Sold my Batman banner.

The baddest ladies at the show..

Omega sketch I did..

For a helluva cool guy. And that brought the con to a close.

So it was off to a wrap-up dinner at a nearby restaurant. No deep dish pizza to my regret..just some of the worst chicken parm I have EVER had!

But no fear, my Chicago culinary experience was not a complete bust...I messed up and missed my train back. So my boy took me out that Monday to see the city and get some breakfast.

From this AMAZING spot called Tempo's.

COME ON!..LOOK AT THAT! Highly recommended.

After a grandslam breakfast it was off to the famous Water Tower on Magnificent Mile.

Where they had the brilliant Lego store with some amazing displays.

Then is was off to see my girl in the light..Beautiful.

Then off to The Bean, some kinda alien spacecraft sculpture.

Then to these creepy Stanley Kubrick 2001 Space Odyssey type things.

Topped off by an ice-cream at the park. Spectacular.

And then home. A grueling 35HOUR(!!!) experience I shall never repeat if I can help it. Thanks for the free "giftbox" of crackers and chicken salad Amtrak. The journey was made better with reading of my friend's book Sunny. An amazing book I'll be talking about in another blog.

 

 

So there you have it..another con successfully wrapped up. Once again I learned alot, got to see another city, and had a sensational time. I had tons more pics but I didn't want to bore you guys. Next up will be pics from my Baltimore trip. 

Peace.