tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-90156208708998934612024-02-18T20:13:43.448-08:00Vertically Challenged ArtworkRickhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12833756859648561368noreply@blogger.comBlogger31125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9015620870899893461.post-83236064289026921452020-10-19T08:36:00.000-07:002020-10-19T08:36:02.112-07:00I Took My Pen to the Pumpkin Patch - (Review: Kaweco Sport Fountain Pen Cognac - Galen Leather Edition)<p> I have wanted to review a Galen Leather product for quite awhile now. By which I mean, I have wanted to own and enjoy a Galen Leather product for quite awhile and share the experience with others. Their Writing Box and Medic Bag are higher-dollar items that I've constantly looked at, and I hope to own one or both of these at some point. But the newest product from Galen that prompted an instant purchase is the collaboration between Galen Leather and Kaweco. <b>The new Kaweco Sport Fountain Pen Cognac - Galen Leather Edition</b>. </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg43DKDDJyi7R4NbG7iuJ9ux8RrV12L2Q1wmcvk43Tr8hJ0iZxsm5ps7a18QUZypMKveRKOzi5OhM7GZbrKA771PFKwFa18dV8mUEdNEWKi7717J4wdDL8wmFta_skXUDG8HkpCchWk9MY/s2048/Galen+Kaweco+%252814%2529.JPEG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg43DKDDJyi7R4NbG7iuJ9ux8RrV12L2Q1wmcvk43Tr8hJ0iZxsm5ps7a18QUZypMKveRKOzi5OhM7GZbrKA771PFKwFa18dV8mUEdNEWKi7717J4wdDL8wmFta_skXUDG8HkpCchWk9MY/w640-h480/Galen+Kaweco+%252814%2529.JPEG" width="640" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="text-align: left;">A few weeks ago, someone in the online pen community mentioned this collaboration, and I thought it was wishful thinking. They were discussing collaborations in general, and didn't mention this pen. But they did specify a Galen Leather x Kaweco collaboration, and I thought, "I can't wait for that </span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="text-align: left;">to happen!" Turns out I didn't have to wait at all. This pen was already made and I ordered it as soon as I found out.</span></div><p>The color got me. I fall for the colors of Fall every time, and any pen with amber colors gets my attention, and usually my money. The Kaweco Galen Cognac edition makes me think of pumpkins, apple cider, and the colors of my favorite season. So, last weekend when my family headed out to our local pumpkin patch, Baldwin Farms, I took my new pen along for the ride.</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjrQc3j5ODFbc6pQ2dVneg5WTm4twLfrHXyeY3yq7G2phPrZ3gx1ju-6OOxhVAnbUwydWV6nejxKsgcbrn01COEnOJoSyJK22NAlb96xdTzmNV9gHJtBGGQFXLvow-m8ydArGYRL_PBiRk/s2048/Galen+Kaweco+%25287%2529.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Kaweco x Galen Cognac, Nock Co. Fodderstack, Story Co. Notebook, and Baldwin Farms Pumpkin" border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1596" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjrQc3j5ODFbc6pQ2dVneg5WTm4twLfrHXyeY3yq7G2phPrZ3gx1ju-6OOxhVAnbUwydWV6nejxKsgcbrn01COEnOJoSyJK22NAlb96xdTzmNV9gHJtBGGQFXLvow-m8ydArGYRL_PBiRk/w498-h640/Galen+Kaweco+%25287%2529.JPG" width="498" /></a></div><div><br /></div>(Kaweco x Galen Leather Cognac Edition, Nock Co. Fodderstack, Story Supply Co. Notebook, and Baldwin Farms Pumpkin)<div><br /></div><div>The pen writes smoothly and consistently, as expected from Kaweco. Kaweco continues to be one of my favorite pens, and this collaboration only serves to boost my appreciation of them even more. You may be less familiar with Galen Leather Co. This family-owned business based in Turkey excels in customer service. Their products are beautiful, and they stand behind them. At the time of my pen order, I received confirmation and personalized follow-up, and the same after my order was shipped and received. <br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgTruNb88qvhjNbiS1fCaVLUmrhyqDfi14Mm-T1roiA8TLGO3kEFXYai8AKK5CWWEgft2AAuf-nRG0ITYm7n85ifd8k5Yu3vzcwJnxm_iDoVZSzMURpeAPiEvmX3mVr91G8Mw8Wk8gLmGY/s2048/Galen+Kaweco+%25288%2529.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1881" data-original-width="2048" height="589" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgTruNb88qvhjNbiS1fCaVLUmrhyqDfi14Mm-T1roiA8TLGO3kEFXYai8AKK5CWWEgft2AAuf-nRG0ITYm7n85ifd8k5Yu3vzcwJnxm_iDoVZSzMURpeAPiEvmX3mVr91G8Mw8Wk8gLmGY/w640-h589/Galen+Kaweco+%25288%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="text-align: left;">Galen clearly cares about their customers and works to make sure the purchasing process is smooth. It was. This was my first pen order requiring customs paperwork and it went through without a hitch. Galen also included some extras with my purchase and the branded drawstring bag and postcards help enhance the great presentation of the company and its products. </span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Check out the Galen Leather Co. products at <a href="https://www.galenleather.com/">https://www.galenleather.com/</a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">The site is a gorgeous display of the leather and woodworking prowess of the company. Every image on there is what I want my desk and Study to look like.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh27u2iODu4I9M2tOQpMUPhdJ0FzsqFy5iKQib4XyINFzzMmrIfj4PSLMGFsD3t0MvqS1MQvqmf5o_yFz-HR0_g28WxNx-BxXZ426IQBLjZzD549lR9nS9v72_RaqZyOl2-AyR1fz-CTNU/s2048/Galen+Kaweco+%25289%2529.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><br /><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1536" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh27u2iODu4I9M2tOQpMUPhdJ0FzsqFy5iKQib4XyINFzzMmrIfj4PSLMGFsD3t0MvqS1MQvqmf5o_yFz-HR0_g28WxNx-BxXZ426IQBLjZzD549lR9nS9v72_RaqZyOl2-AyR1fz-CTNU/w480-h640/Galen+Kaweco+%25289%2529.JPG" width="480" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="text-align: left;">(Galen Leather Co. Goodies and Extras)</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLL5HXEE9qecrkJnbMNzY3CDJsaWSyXoGOzTHJaz1Bb4vAfTNWC2YW31CU_jrTKtC-FIIARAgsz6e6PZXdjRv-9hS6ijJ0BLFb0gUFJWhIsroJLkHCVPNHxHcihCiTm9EDbf-vyzTE0nw/s2048/Galen+Kaweco+%25288%2529.jpeg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1589" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLL5HXEE9qecrkJnbMNzY3CDJsaWSyXoGOzTHJaz1Bb4vAfTNWC2YW31CU_jrTKtC-FIIARAgsz6e6PZXdjRv-9hS6ijJ0BLFb0gUFJWhIsroJLkHCVPNHxHcihCiTm9EDbf-vyzTE0nw/w496-h640/Galen+Kaweco+%25288%2529.jpeg" width="496" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhW0j59bPIKhXxl5a08qPbOLjJWiw0sIL4TXuwg6vrwcY1ebE1UyCDRs9Wg0S4XJ5DfMuINpYqH8g_Krxo3wAaTqSFHg_2J00Gx95KwPYeXH-O7JBMXETBg8UMiOoyNU6CcIAFAowex7GU/s2048/Galen+Kaweco+%252811%2529.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1410" data-original-width="2048" height="440" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhW0j59bPIKhXxl5a08qPbOLjJWiw0sIL4TXuwg6vrwcY1ebE1UyCDRs9Wg0S4XJ5DfMuINpYqH8g_Krxo3wAaTqSFHg_2J00Gx95KwPYeXH-O7JBMXETBg8UMiOoyNU6CcIAFAowex7GU/w640-h440/Galen+Kaweco+%252811%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><p></p><p><i>(I purchased this product with my own funds from Galen Leather Co.)</i></p></div>Rickhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12833756859648561368noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9015620870899893461.post-6955257884408171672020-09-23T06:12:00.001-07:002020-09-23T06:13:57.019-07:00CASA Superhero Run, September 2020<p>It's always a pleasure providing artwork for the annual CASA Superhero Run and the vital work they do. This year's commission included a request to feature horses since the Run was happening the same weekend as the Kentucky Derby.</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJ8WG4XLe_8iKBn4KVf5xCRoaDa4kedMbXeO7GeH_n794NbM9E0dl2xWbPRCl1qY8F91GAazZ2zfTMRpLPrw715bNlgbPY_Up7h1m3OCR0Qb8Fxvt6vCdUUjvCu2FdoCvyRXK_9HJTxOY/s2048/CASA+art+2020.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1494" data-original-width="2048" height="466" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJ8WG4XLe_8iKBn4KVf5xCRoaDa4kedMbXeO7GeH_n794NbM9E0dl2xWbPRCl1qY8F91GAazZ2zfTMRpLPrw715bNlgbPY_Up7h1m3OCR0Qb8Fxvt6vCdUUjvCu2FdoCvyRXK_9HJTxOY/w640-h466/CASA+art+2020.png" width="640" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0mpb3WY_EqRON4-ZhhwcTDcAJv-r6km5bjs7NuiQbvFxdAu88QqctHlOlUdjo1j9YS9iUwsPHLptD54udny9ZzWe51MQvVa3XmlRakqxgSpvcOVEX0YO6RkEnron6Ttj6IbGHgZyIKG4/s804/casa+shirt+final.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="804" data-original-width="730" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0mpb3WY_EqRON4-ZhhwcTDcAJv-r6km5bjs7NuiQbvFxdAu88QqctHlOlUdjo1j9YS9iUwsPHLptD54udny9ZzWe51MQvVa3XmlRakqxgSpvcOVEX0YO6RkEnron6Ttj6IbGHgZyIKG4/w582-h640/casa+shirt+final.jpg" width="582" /></a></div><br /><p><br /></p><p><br /></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><br /><p></p>Rickhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12833756859648561368noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9015620870899893461.post-49635152922559760782020-09-23T06:00:00.003-07:002020-09-23T06:00:51.372-07:00Platinum Curidas Fountain Pen Review<p> One of my hobbies is fountain pens. Over the course of almost three years, I've acquired a decent collection, and they are a daily tool for much of what I do as a pastor and author. I use them for all of my personal writing, study, and sermon notes, and for some sketching and illustration. The Platinum Curidas - a new retractable fountain pen - is a recent addition and this is my quick review of a pen that's quickly becoming a favorite.</p><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjoSDffcDG0EeE68Ldnry-cgnQXPHaIBFg9nXBYnwt17VymgpGtxWuvGJPPossZkEGCvHF7j-MYaAluFPG_WoezPhCi3ToFQXXu3OpDbUV9t7ICWHrR_RU0iMegUH2zbn75JlcSqFnV0fU/s1600/IMG_1495.jpg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjoSDffcDG0EeE68Ldnry-cgnQXPHaIBFg9nXBYnwt17VymgpGtxWuvGJPPossZkEGCvHF7j-MYaAluFPG_WoezPhCi3ToFQXXu3OpDbUV9t7ICWHrR_RU0iMegUH2zbn75JlcSqFnV0fU/s640/IMG_1495.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><b>Nib:</b> Fine, stainless steel.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><b>Ink:</b> Platinum cartridge black</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">Barrel Color: <span style="color: red;">Gran Red</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><b>The Mechanism</b>: Mesmerizing, retractable, clicky pen goodness. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><b>The Nock</b>: Excellent acoustics. Like a Parker Jotter with Bose speakers hooked up to it. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">CLICK * KA-CHUNK* </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><b>Multi-Step Take-down Pen</b>: You won't ink up this pen with the quick load of a cartridge. But...it's a really cool disassembly and reassembly process. Definitely part of the uniqueness of the Curidas. Akin to assembling Cold War era spy gear. I mean this in the best of ways. Hardware twists and clicks together like you're assembling a covert mini-rifle out of watch components and parts from your stealth camera. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><b>Inked: </b>It seemed to be a slow starter. I'm not sure if that was more of a cartridge issue, or something related to the feed. But once the ink starts flowing, it smooths out and writes really well. This is my first Platinum pen, and I veered from my traditional Medium nib and went with Fine instead. This nib can handle tiny and precision lines like a needle-point pen.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">Between the spy-tech gear and the really fine nib, I'm ready to write secret messages to fellow agents. I just won't be sneaking up on anyone. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">CLICK * KA-CHUNK* </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><b>Summary: </b>It's a new favorite in my fountain pen arsenal. It has been in daily use. The mechanics, design, and nib quality are all excellent. I can see why Platinum hyped and marketed this pen the way they did; clearly they knew they were into something good. It's a great pen I think you'll enjoy using frequently. Many people have expressed concern about the clip and the protrusion that holds it. For my standard grip, it was never in the way and was very comfortable when writing.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><b>Purchasing: </b>Pen Chalet, where I bought my Curidas, currently has all the colors and nib sizes available. I've seen it arriving at some other favorite vendors, too. I was fortunate to put in my pre-order in January, before the hype increased even more, and I got the pre-order pricing that provided a good discount and deal. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjqjMDk8p283OTcgahtvkmQlXsgYJo-tf-v3-VaVX3z8KjlFSN1PwkJD7O2-xvzmAtn5jfBV0y0IcQcX3idPBk7_C5wGNEEg6c2sFZyPAgO5glU4hrPN9zERhIrTcUyc0cDWhejjBxika0/s1600/IMG_0447.jpg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjqjMDk8p283OTcgahtvkmQlXsgYJo-tf-v3-VaVX3z8KjlFSN1PwkJD7O2-xvzmAtn5jfBV0y0IcQcX3idPBk7_C5wGNEEg6c2sFZyPAgO5glU4hrPN9zERhIrTcUyc0cDWhejjBxika0/s640/IMG_0447.jpg" width="480" /></a></div><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br />I purchased my Curidas from Pen Chalet with my own funds. The opinions expressed are my own and were not influenced by the seller.Rickhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12833756859648561368noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9015620870899893461.post-28006936000227796562019-11-06T11:11:00.000-08:002019-11-06T11:47:44.045-08:00CASA Superhero Run, Lexington, KY - T-Shirt and Award ArtworkThe CASA Superhero Run is a tremendous annual event organized by a great group of people - the superheroes of <a href="https://casaoflexington.org/">CASA of Lexington</a>. I'm honored each year to provide vertically challenged artwork for the event, for shirts, promotions, and awards. I didn't share the artwork before the event this year, but here it is now. As always, I enjoyed working on this event!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZlRGUO1hlShFZqmaGAiPr5hAHb1vf03loZm0YTOadUBoRjLi8RSAb4GbTBp7jl-nvrK1Ss-2TA0x1Uq59zsuUHbb57haadsjf9HckL835FKn_Kh9Ux5HSaUqr6g3srHF-szozVH36DnQ/s1600/CASA+2019+sample+green+background.tiff" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1450" data-original-width="1600" height="577" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZlRGUO1hlShFZqmaGAiPr5hAHb1vf03loZm0YTOadUBoRjLi8RSAb4GbTBp7jl-nvrK1Ss-2TA0x1Uq59zsuUHbb57haadsjf9HckL835FKn_Kh9Ux5HSaUqr6g3srHF-szozVH36DnQ/s640/CASA+2019+sample+green+background.tiff" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3K2y8RpkhKN3rpfQmM4H2QltGawAic0-55DNTXdvpYEHZQth_PkhhlE6li8zFIoNwQLW5mZrvk15nsM5r_AeuOCKwF2yjIoKhR7RAYxG3Yo2du6m3YWBlWwaGuaQons_RltKit0FQdxk/s1600/CASA+2019+Small+Plaque+Art.tiff" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="552" data-original-width="529" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3K2y8RpkhKN3rpfQmM4H2QltGawAic0-55DNTXdvpYEHZQth_PkhhlE6li8zFIoNwQLW5mZrvk15nsM5r_AeuOCKwF2yjIoKhR7RAYxG3Yo2du6m3YWBlWwaGuaQons_RltKit0FQdxk/s400/CASA+2019+Small+Plaque+Art.tiff" width="381" /></a></div>
<br />Rickhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12833756859648561368noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9015620870899893461.post-23631841582009675702018-11-02T11:45:00.001-07:002018-11-02T11:45:19.765-07:00VCA Works in Progress - A Couple of Old Favorites from My Childhood<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3pfLoVGRoQKRGWT1GbHK6nAqy940uriFM7NaUCx_9_K6ZsWBCDcGDbsxBKvcX6qC-04btaY5qiO7rh1yCAcpMiPkS06HCOxgabLBVQdk_W16IIWLUz0-SZArh2nXCwmrNdRaWudD9830/s1600/A-Team+VCA.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="618" data-original-width="960" height="411" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3pfLoVGRoQKRGWT1GbHK6nAqy940uriFM7NaUCx_9_K6ZsWBCDcGDbsxBKvcX6qC-04btaY5qiO7rh1yCAcpMiPkS06HCOxgabLBVQdk_W16IIWLUz0-SZArh2nXCwmrNdRaWudD9830/s640/A-Team+VCA.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhEhDT4xKa7i59x8MoxChGBa-oOQ3aK3jh4NxO0Ll__x7N-BJCAcwLDS67sGTB_-XOl0p1LBKzWjAAzXvjJ0UgGNA7G7MdYiQ5Rro-tU5mSwN4GisIBGsDVbGLVofP-6DjtrxDMKkCiBpk/s1600/FF+VCA.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="854" data-original-width="1600" height="340" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhEhDT4xKa7i59x8MoxChGBa-oOQ3aK3jh4NxO0Ll__x7N-BJCAcwLDS67sGTB_-XOl0p1LBKzWjAAzXvjJ0UgGNA7G7MdYiQ5Rro-tU5mSwN4GisIBGsDVbGLVofP-6DjtrxDMKkCiBpk/s640/FF+VCA.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />Rickhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12833756859648561368noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9015620870899893461.post-58353953264486096332018-11-02T11:26:00.002-07:002018-11-02T11:27:04.043-07:00Rich City Comic and Pop Con, November 3, 2018Stop by and see me at the Vertically Challenged Artwork booth #24, 10 a.m. - 5 p.m. Saturday, at the Richmond Mall! Fan favorites, originals and commissions available.<br />
<br />
<a href="https://www.facebook.com/events/192230551524680/">https://www.facebook.com/events/192230551524680/</a><br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiRreIDEeX_dgwNJJ1RLzcFu_T-PfT4zUkCSwI4wsazjxRUbCE-chLevGt4wFbtmjtjBcpzWLvYX13TpmHNB-lw3oXmywEKebLfciF-4uqJI7wg6iz347-6IsixiSFon5uLDjlJAX4EuBc/s1600/Rich+City+Comic+and+Pop+Con+2018.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="1600" height="256" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiRreIDEeX_dgwNJJ1RLzcFu_T-PfT4zUkCSwI4wsazjxRUbCE-chLevGt4wFbtmjtjBcpzWLvYX13TpmHNB-lw3oXmywEKebLfciF-4uqJI7wg6iz347-6IsixiSFon5uLDjlJAX4EuBc/s640/Rich+City+Comic+and+Pop+Con+2018.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />Rickhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12833756859648561368noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9015620870899893461.post-24458869379469060412018-02-23T07:07:00.001-08:002018-02-23T07:07:24.405-08:00Ink Review: Red Beans and Rice by Papier PlumeThis is my first ink review, so bear with me. I thought I would wait until I could take better photos, write more with the ink, etc. But my schedule will not permit it right now, and I wanted to give a review and recommendation of this ink and its parent company.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhE8ZOC2nq2L_bT7dejT2JmIavX3LAlYVFwAS0XKWO3qjKZKedHuUVvmoT1GGWPPi_2nqeim6EH2SiltPl7jtHOQTSfKqVAsOdNEr9TY5cngYeIRleOXXcBJUHdfV8YIJRiSogEIw4ETXY/s1600/IMG_8325.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhE8ZOC2nq2L_bT7dejT2JmIavX3LAlYVFwAS0XKWO3qjKZKedHuUVvmoT1GGWPPi_2nqeim6EH2SiltPl7jtHOQTSfKqVAsOdNEr9TY5cngYeIRleOXXcBJUHdfV8YIJRiSogEIw4ETXY/s400/IMG_8325.JPG" width="300" /></a></div>
I haven't seen many reviews of Papier Plume inks on the fountain pen and writing blogs I read most often. I hope this changes and we get to see more experienced ink reviewers giving these inks the attention they deserve. I was excited about the Papier Plume "New Orleans Collection" selection the moment I came across them. Admittedly I was drawn to the bottles because of the great looking wax-sealed lids and the New Orleans themes. As a kid who grew up in Louisiana eating red beans and rice, I knew that namesake ink would be my first purchase.<br />
My ink came packaged with the shipping box bearing a matching wax seal to the logo that adorns the bottle. Inside, it was well protected with bubble wrap, and only a few tiny pieces of the wax seal had broken off.<br />
<br />
The ink is an excellent color that certainly looks like its namesake beans-and-rice red with hues ranging from maroon to light purple and pink. It looks great contrasted on bright white paper, and on the white pages of my Passion Planner (pictured here) and Field Notes (not pictured). For this review and ink test I used the Twsbi Eco stub nib. I think it helped show some shading and may also account for the 30- second dry time, with the stub nib laying down more ink than the standard medium or fine nib of my other pens.<br />
<br />
I recommend this ink and the company for excellent service, fast shipping, and quality of product. I purchased this ink with my own funds and provide this review without any input from Papier Plume. I plan to try their other inks in the New Orleans collection, which include: Street Car Green, Calle Real, Sazerac, Mardi Gras Indians Purple, Garden District Azalea, and Bayou Nightfall. Check them out at: <a href="https://www.papierplume.com/">https://www.papierplume.com/</a><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjrXOiLb2sKPG_oQoSNuOgHE8ni5K5cEPtlQ8-6PUCtkJFpi4WoCfHjqWYuDcOoVsymXfn2O3DKZclnwYPMtpe-2YnmWKBcohn2IE4YsWE0AjgLUmjJKBmmrA6KTO2K7XOtFcgt2_KgYUo/s1600/IMG_8333.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjrXOiLb2sKPG_oQoSNuOgHE8ni5K5cEPtlQ8-6PUCtkJFpi4WoCfHjqWYuDcOoVsymXfn2O3DKZclnwYPMtpe-2YnmWKBcohn2IE4YsWE0AjgLUmjJKBmmrA6KTO2K7XOtFcgt2_KgYUo/s640/IMG_8333.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWpBUtWGy4c9_xbhKmmvNB9jQPDCxcTRz4mrnLBWs_v1iDLF9s3s4cnsDkmTjSzVDGxfGMED9CS-Pv8bckwztLab_6S047tSq8_4nv16H5Wa4LAXz0skvurStyho-JaEgdrDKnhRZDq3k/s1600/Red+Beans+and+Twsbi.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="733" data-original-width="1600" height="293" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWpBUtWGy4c9_xbhKmmvNB9jQPDCxcTRz4mrnLBWs_v1iDLF9s3s4cnsDkmTjSzVDGxfGMED9CS-Pv8bckwztLab_6S047tSq8_4nv16H5Wa4LAXz0skvurStyho-JaEgdrDKnhRZDq3k/s640/Red+Beans+and+Twsbi.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
<br />Rickhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12833756859648561368noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9015620870899893461.post-52346820588207962292017-12-15T13:26:00.000-08:002017-12-15T13:27:21.156-08:00Vertically Challenged Christmas Cards<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhxKBgS_deH5wCiC8n0yuAY-VS-EWn7d4shrVVEQmqylhVFiA_FHfO2SNQe47hDO5a4FPw84khV4ZPe83c5STuTfTo1qRz6x6C5k6L4iS2YR1244i4QPQwhCKcvykNWWPNJi_RmChrp9sk/s1600/Christmas+Cards+2016+Combined+Poster.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1075" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhxKBgS_deH5wCiC8n0yuAY-VS-EWn7d4shrVVEQmqylhVFiA_FHfO2SNQe47hDO5a4FPw84khV4ZPe83c5STuTfTo1qRz6x6C5k6L4iS2YR1244i4QPQwhCKcvykNWWPNJi_RmChrp9sk/s640/Christmas+Cards+2016+Combined+Poster.png" width="428" /></a></div>
<br />Rickhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12833756859648561368noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9015620870899893461.post-88952433112697782592017-12-15T12:40:00.000-08:002017-12-15T12:40:51.418-08:00Sketch Cards of Space-Rover's many mini adventures!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1IYaahenLIuqeWPAbevkZKNZ0rxcx7Gi_wChXllHng00ptrNT_OjAvWbp0Qe9Udt-u3XcWPc9NZ84G_A4BtPQKDmvQSAAG7m0I0dq9HnUY-JXd_EGOHi5RwL9PRc2oo1EqVJuXGoxITo/s1600/001.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1115" data-original-width="1600" height="443" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1IYaahenLIuqeWPAbevkZKNZ0rxcx7Gi_wChXllHng00ptrNT_OjAvWbp0Qe9Udt-u3XcWPc9NZ84G_A4BtPQKDmvQSAAG7m0I0dq9HnUY-JXd_EGOHi5RwL9PRc2oo1EqVJuXGoxITo/s640/001.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />Rickhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12833756859648561368noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9015620870899893461.post-43867180884433645792017-12-13T07:50:00.000-08:002017-12-13T07:50:12.568-08:00Space-Rover Rewards Complete this Week!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
The Library Builder Level included one of every book I've written and illustrated. Not pictured here but included: Eleven Chickens in a Boat! As always, I enjoyed creating the rewards, including sketch cards, paintings, custom illustrations, and the Space-Rover mini coloring book. This week, Space-Rover lands in the hands of readers around the world.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJs8bTkKsI15_TozOGArDddgSpy0lugRrE6bnMHtHKZ-rplgf94G6RpX09ENnfqj3rsiijtTrh_q_fDyLq7rJ-PeCGJINWGrzJmQ9IJ8Dtf0wAm3RWL7RjMs25UkNVnFaehijRCuI4B74/s1600/IMG_7717.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJs8bTkKsI15_TozOGArDddgSpy0lugRrE6bnMHtHKZ-rplgf94G6RpX09ENnfqj3rsiijtTrh_q_fDyLq7rJ-PeCGJINWGrzJmQ9IJ8Dtf0wAm3RWL7RjMs25UkNVnFaehijRCuI4B74/s640/IMG_7717.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">From left to right: Space-Rover book 1 and 2, Vertically Challenged: A Tall Tale of a Short Story, Ramone Cologne: A Skunk's Tale, Ramone Cologne: Skunklock Holmes, Ramone Cologne: This Skunk, This Hamster, Ramone Cologne.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />Rickhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12833756859648561368noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9015620870899893461.post-87298097927950492042017-12-12T09:08:00.001-08:002017-12-15T12:51:41.670-08:00VCA Commissions at Conventions<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjLYzGvUA58XNGkFTueyRkXo04CT4QStIH7p0KlweRDzIhfuutEUd94Dq0tFWZaQMqciMPVqnGTiUs-CujEVzdlJ9tB_AQYWpddIjJBYXqfdRDZlLCEYTamts04sQ2VpCT-4l6MRgD1F7M/s1600/IMG_2204.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEitwTpLOTIxEnJeVB2GK4_leb6MCEQBpVAUYIbjU5qhicrV-lMwnfFWCPv6t4F7TFa03877XN4gTo_Jx-bJwzu3ARBCfz8M_onsZczglXk3LlPzc3X7elrLcgZ1qOFSvrbjqo3wqH3puYI/s1600/IMG_0131.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1196" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEitwTpLOTIxEnJeVB2GK4_leb6MCEQBpVAUYIbjU5qhicrV-lMwnfFWCPv6t4F7TFa03877XN4gTo_Jx-bJwzu3ARBCfz8M_onsZczglXk3LlPzc3X7elrLcgZ1qOFSvrbjqo3wqH3puYI/s400/IMG_0131.JPG" width="298" /></a></div>
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHN1__8BBJejdv8f7YxDNtZ8TX4VPyXycinPqGwqCBd0Os0JKR4rYLcS4QuFBhXt1Nwj_7EwhUqzXy9_5vRGjTG_FlqGZzKtcwurW-mw2hSbI7Q9W0x9SJguI0f_MomgHtOMH-JM9LqrQ/s1600/IMG_2843.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1196" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHN1__8BBJejdv8f7YxDNtZ8TX4VPyXycinPqGwqCBd0Os0JKR4rYLcS4QuFBhXt1Nwj_7EwhUqzXy9_5vRGjTG_FlqGZzKtcwurW-mw2hSbI7Q9W0x9SJguI0f_MomgHtOMH-JM9LqrQ/s400/IMG_2843.JPG" width="298" /></a><br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />Rickhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12833756859648561368noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9015620870899893461.post-86578891484851035302017-12-08T13:10:00.000-08:002017-12-08T13:25:43.094-08:00VCA Commission - A Couple of Time-Traveling Adventurers!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgt8q4NDZYrasRNerObehKaCmFLpuTsZVsWbnD1rlhhiStCMqpCQNNAX7VUdyW7KpsB9nohMghSpwaLAmvlxSckP0v8yPA84MN0OrYoDL5AQRkQhc1MwGA9FYZDIpo3FHyt_iO8wHwIuoc/s1600/VCA+Commission.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="804" data-original-width="599" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgt8q4NDZYrasRNerObehKaCmFLpuTsZVsWbnD1rlhhiStCMqpCQNNAX7VUdyW7KpsB9nohMghSpwaLAmvlxSckP0v8yPA84MN0OrYoDL5AQRkQhc1MwGA9FYZDIpo3FHyt_iO8wHwIuoc/s640/VCA+Commission.jpg" width="476" /></a></div>
<br />Rickhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12833756859648561368noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9015620870899893461.post-11400391175376002002017-12-08T13:05:00.000-08:002017-12-08T13:24:59.558-08:00Spidey with Spidey - Miles Morales, Vertically Challenged<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh82lCjxxZXYAzMA6bH_IOuI3eYfR74o2dLCeNw0fVgs0LYjmZvkqHXOZ5KsqwAuGTYOwB8b9wKQ9v2ZogySdo5LeBnf1vdxwFiBKLrly9bpgvJdl10BJrvcsIzxsMACi6XUaYMCtS0uec/s1600/FullSizeRender.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1308" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh82lCjxxZXYAzMA6bH_IOuI3eYfR74o2dLCeNw0fVgs0LYjmZvkqHXOZ5KsqwAuGTYOwB8b9wKQ9v2ZogySdo5LeBnf1vdxwFiBKLrly9bpgvJdl10BJrvcsIzxsMACi6XUaYMCtS0uec/s640/FullSizeRender.jpg" width="522" /></a></div>
<br />Rickhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12833756859648561368noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9015620870899893461.post-87012211124815638262017-12-01T06:34:00.000-08:002017-12-01T06:34:41.013-08:00Dip Pens, Cartooning, and Inking<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhRIA9GPuvSThn4TMW4raHUS5dx67xCZF6bF-COomeFnYen43NGZyMylbNiDmc36BWijDlaPH7E3opRj1DPNSLc_zmHUZ6zoB3Uv4HZBwd9kO8h_d86mwkzkTtaBVeLkPK1nofN9nDK0vc/s1600/Dip+Pens+Collection.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhRIA9GPuvSThn4TMW4raHUS5dx67xCZF6bF-COomeFnYen43NGZyMylbNiDmc36BWijDlaPH7E3opRj1DPNSLc_zmHUZ6zoB3Uv4HZBwd9kO8h_d86mwkzkTtaBVeLkPK1nofN9nDK0vc/s400/Dip+Pens+Collection.png" width="297" /></a>Last week my wife and I visited a local antique mall and spent quite a bit of our Black Friday searching every booth for treasures. Success! The last booth I checked, near the checkout counter on my way out, included a box of old-school dip pens on the bottom shelf of a dusty display case. The cashier unlocked the case and set the box out for me to explore.<br />
<br />
I bought the five dip pens pictured and a marble-barreled U.S. Senate mechanical pencil by Sheaffer. I headed home, got a bottle of India Ink and started experimenting with the dip pens.<br />
<br />
Off to a messy start, I dripped a puddle on Space-Rover's ear, then got the hang of it and started inking the sketch below. The handwriting and illustration were both done with the dip pen. The nib has great flex to allow line width variations for illustrating. I wrote a couple of pages of text in my Field Notes Dime Novel edition and it has good control and consistency - the steel nib produces text comparable to a medium nib by standard fountain pen sizes (like Lamy or Kaweco). I enjoyed the drawing experience with these pens and I'm looking forward to creating some complete pages using only my old dip pens!<br />
<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgtKl0oLjNb3kqIJhshhHEDx2MKlU5RfcnDjy-5exWTRY2Qc34p6mGOWdjHgfEtf7uAp9M1hGVkH83NTZQYkkeYMhwalJXCGSYT1rYUV8j5HKl-2QCFl81c7Y60AaEgNQT4C82Jc6pN4Ew/s1600/Dip+Pen+Sketch.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; display: inline !important; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="694" data-original-width="925" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgtKl0oLjNb3kqIJhshhHEDx2MKlU5RfcnDjy-5exWTRY2Qc34p6mGOWdjHgfEtf7uAp9M1hGVkH83NTZQYkkeYMhwalJXCGSYT1rYUV8j5HKl-2QCFl81c7Y60AaEgNQT4C82Jc6pN4Ew/s400/Dip+Pen+Sketch.png" width="400" /></a>I'm always amazed and appreciative of past creators who penned documents, inked drawings, and completed entire books with pens like these. I would encourage every artist to try out a dip pen. It's a great way to experiment with old-school tools and techniques. You may find out you enjoy drawing with these. If so, and time is the only deterrent to prevent using one more often, there are many great fountain pens that offer the flex nib and line variance options with internal ink reservoirs or refillable cartridges. The best of both worlds!<br />
<br />
<br />Rickhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12833756859648561368noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9015620870899893461.post-87916957709746054982017-12-01T05:40:00.000-08:002017-12-01T06:38:28.983-08:00Space-Rover: Out and About on Planet Earth<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjg3c-ek0QJJlb8de68JeQgKl_zzZZdfe3eLmktq9y5YEW1MhY-1aecT41g2iVq9JhZTw6c1qK1FGAvspmwIqGHynvXCpguWoXrHkg7huGv74wzyRb-izPZC4olKexgr_mI6ZYMvJB954E/s1600/Space-Rover+Collage.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; display: inline !important; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="533" data-original-width="1600" height="212" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjg3c-ek0QJJlb8de68JeQgKl_zzZZdfe3eLmktq9y5YEW1MhY-1aecT41g2iVq9JhZTw6c1qK1FGAvspmwIqGHynvXCpguWoXrHkg7huGv74wzyRb-izPZC4olKexgr_mI6ZYMvJB954E/s640/Space-Rover+Collage.jpg" width="640" /></a><br />
Space-Rover and the Prickly Planet, the second book in the series, has been mailed to supporters of the Kickstarter project and I'm starting to hear back from those who have received their copies! Part of the fun of Kickstarter projects is creating the rewards that go to backers. The images seen here are some of the sketch cards that were produced as inserts for backers. Blue pencil and brush pen ink on bristol sketch cards. I enjoy drawing these and admit that they often prompt ideas for new adventures and future books.<br />
<br />
Some backers also receive the exclusive mini coloring book with additional sketch card pages. Others requested custom caricatures of themselves, drawn in my Vertically Challenged Artwork format.<br />
<br />
If you missed the project, you can order the books via Amazon and have them in a few days!<br />
Book 1: <a href="https://www.amazon.com/Fantastic-Adventures-Space-Rover-1/dp/1518637116/ref=asap_bc?ie=UTF8">The Fantastic Adventures of Space-Rover!</a><br />
Book 2: <a href="https://www.amazon.com/Space-Rover-Prickly-Planet-Fantastic-Adventures/dp/1544913346/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1512135187&sr=8-1&keywords=space-rover+and+prickly+planet">Space-Rover and the Prickly Planet!</a>Rickhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12833756859648561368noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9015620870899893461.post-33914713944941416582017-11-17T06:28:00.000-08:002017-11-17T06:28:04.868-08:00Ramone Cologne, Fountain Pen and Field NotesRamone Cologne is back after a long break in my artwork schedule! I've missed this little skunk and his adventures. Ramone returned this week with this sketch from my new Lamy fountain pen in the Field Notes Dime Novel edition. A children's book is in the early stages featuring a new side of Ramone Cologne that's never been featured in any of his previous comic books and comic strips. Hope to share more artwork and details soon.<div>
<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhruYmaHl8CJdC0kIQ0G_brm9VKNCkrzEDBFMQeL3zfgpvH1EDuk8NxQNKNyVQX6brcrSrZhQtQ56EC8Lb3frnJ4F9-sK3uLLI1k0UaB5AASHS-Vk8KEhlHqUFE1ugS7DENpRC_pQRjogo/s1600/Ramone+Fountain+Pen.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhruYmaHl8CJdC0kIQ0G_brm9VKNCkrzEDBFMQeL3zfgpvH1EDuk8NxQNKNyVQX6brcrSrZhQtQ56EC8Lb3frnJ4F9-sK3uLLI1k0UaB5AASHS-Vk8KEhlHqUFE1ugS7DENpRC_pQRjogo/s640/Ramone+Fountain+Pen.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
</div>
Rickhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12833756859648561368noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9015620870899893461.post-1890296927183380952017-03-03T11:06:00.000-08:002017-03-03T11:11:31.254-08:00New! Space-Rover's New Book is Funding on Kickstarter: Space-Rover and the Prickly Planet! Needs Your SupportIf you're a fan of any of my past artwork or other books, please check out the new project for <b>Space-Rover and the Prickly Planet!</b> Book 2 in the series. A $15 pledge gets you a signed copy of the book when the project is successful, and there are other rewards that are new to this project. Thanks!<br />
<a href="https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/1510900017/the-fantastic-adventures-of-space-rover-the-prickl?ref=nav_search">https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/1510900017/the-fantastic-adventures-of-space-rover-the-prickl?ref=nav_search</a><br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<iframe frameborder="0" height="360" scrolling="no" src="https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/1510900017/the-fantastic-adventures-of-space-rover-the-prickl/widget/video.html" width="640"> </iframe>Rickhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12833756859648561368noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9015620870899893461.post-58619129439578076952016-11-10T07:02:00.001-08:002017-12-08T12:52:16.763-08:00Commissioned Paintings - Vertically Challenged...You!Here are some of the commissioned paintings I've enjoyed doing recently: Vertically Challenged commissions of pets, kids, and Space-Rover.<a href="https://www.amazon.com/Fantastic-Adventures-Space-Rover-1/dp/1518637116/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1478785733&sr=8-1&keywords=space-rover+rick+mcgee"></a> <br />
<br />
If you've imagined yourself as a superhero or space-explorer (and let's be honest, we all have), you can get that vision in painting with a Vertically Challenged Artwork commission.<br />
<br />
Email me, facebook message me (<a href="https://www.facebook.com/VerticallyChallengedArt/">https://www.facebook.com/VerticallyChallengedArt/</a>) or check out my booth at an upcoming convention. The next convention I'm attending is the Oldham County Comic Con, Saturday, November 12: <a href="http://www.oldhampl.org/oc3.html">http://www.oldhampl.org/oc3.html</a><br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjV9RzhEHT7RHmp7t90I7sVDXqSqKFCiGtxrP1jWOUPk__fWYKnY61TmrTcCGo7xT65mgkYi8idRnoftFAFf6iCaBatq68VxuYlmhs_z7y4bEP0T9WSU4d1hvLI8YkMR0VWkOahipulVL0/s1600/Equestrian+VCA.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="267" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjV9RzhEHT7RHmp7t90I7sVDXqSqKFCiGtxrP1jWOUPk__fWYKnY61TmrTcCGo7xT65mgkYi8idRnoftFAFf6iCaBatq68VxuYlmhs_z7y4bEP0T9WSU4d1hvLI8YkMR0VWkOahipulVL0/s640/Equestrian+VCA.png" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Commissioned painting of various horse events for an Equestrian Federation's charity auction.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
Space-Rover is my newest children's book, available here: <a href="https://www.amazon.com/Fantastic-Adventures-Space-Rover-1/dp/1518637116/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1478785733&sr=8-1&keywords=space-rover+rick+mcgee">https://www.amazon.com/Fantastic-Adventures-Space-Rover-1/dp/1518637116/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1478785733&sr=8-1&keywords=space-rover+rick+mcgee</a>Rickhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12833756859648561368noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9015620870899893461.post-16098387057318844362016-09-13T11:05:00.003-07:002016-09-13T11:06:14.558-07:00Vertically Challenged Artwork appearances with Fans and Cosplayers<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8PzJ9ZVDJ6pXVWH0HHLXvej1IAOLuNhwazA1UaiFE-T6KzTxqxFqKyoygPBtMrRcMW9s6niaK0zKoYSSGzs7rntsfTAfbmknLBNjYwIRDQKr0qbc6Pd5wi8sNUOIpPIts_yfhoi7CiQ4/s1600/VCA+Collage.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="465" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8PzJ9ZVDJ6pXVWH0HHLXvej1IAOLuNhwazA1UaiFE-T6KzTxqxFqKyoygPBtMrRcMW9s6niaK0zKoYSSGzs7rntsfTAfbmknLBNjYwIRDQKr0qbc6Pd5wi8sNUOIpPIts_yfhoi7CiQ4/s640/VCA+Collage.png" width="640" /></a></div>
A collage of fans, cosplayers, and Vertically Challenged Artwork at conventions and book-signing events in 2015-2016.Rickhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12833756859648561368noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9015620870899893461.post-10443665725465220372016-07-19T12:08:00.000-07:002016-07-19T12:08:14.339-07:00CASA Superhero Run 2016<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhah2YwiaaqrEAyfQevKUXUR-WnM5ofdLXZUEfaw25bIluYOiOqVyF5XWfpdMX80ifHW3SS7A4wk9R6OxTGwrHW9Qjm3z_rC3BTucLpUkJ-kHFwfUEa6BaAP1hQtbseh7U4IzyvQ8ut2lU/s1600/CASA+Shirt+2016.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="528" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhah2YwiaaqrEAyfQevKUXUR-WnM5ofdLXZUEfaw25bIluYOiOqVyF5XWfpdMX80ifHW3SS7A4wk9R6OxTGwrHW9Qjm3z_rC3BTucLpUkJ-kHFwfUEa6BaAP1hQtbseh7U4IzyvQ8ut2lU/s640/CASA+Shirt+2016.png" width="640" /></a></div>
I'm glad to once again be part of the annual CASA Superhero Run in Lexington, Kentucky. It's a pleasure to provide the artwork each year for shirts, banners, and reward plaques for runners. This is a fantastic event every year for the Court Appointed Special Advocates (CASA) organization of Lexington. I've enjoyed participating as a runner each year, when runners dress up as superheroes for the 5K and kids' 1K. Check it out at http://www.lexsuperherorun.com/<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgtMp3gKW1aI8byofJrdM8GSA6ZwEe2mqahcvKmS5Z2FvbVkdzTz20uwpGA4n1qNjn982mHPGhA7RlOCMI4zh4UwmzJioCt-jX7bJg7fZny4g21tMjmMmXkvdsmBsCYUUmvsNLH-snWOyc/s1600/CASA+2016+shirt+preview.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgtMp3gKW1aI8byofJrdM8GSA6ZwEe2mqahcvKmS5Z2FvbVkdzTz20uwpGA4n1qNjn982mHPGhA7RlOCMI4zh4UwmzJioCt-jX7bJg7fZny4g21tMjmMmXkvdsmBsCYUUmvsNLH-snWOyc/s400/CASA+2016+shirt+preview.jpg" width="371" /></a></div>
<br />Rickhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12833756859648561368noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9015620870899893461.post-8385271419935439992016-03-10T06:23:00.001-08:002016-03-10T06:25:19.676-08:00Lexington Comic and Toy Convention This Weekend - March 11-13, 2016I'll be at the Lexington Comic and Toy Con part of this weekend for one of my biggest conventions of the year. Follow the map below to visit my table and see new Vertically Challenged Artwork, my newest children's book <i>The Fantastic Adventures of Space-Rover</i>, and the Vertically Challenged comic book. Looking forward to reconnecting with friends and fans from previous years!<br />
<h3>
<span style="color: blue;">Rick McGee, Vertically Challenged Artwork, Booth 1104</span></h3>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjC5vsGYDIQLdTXvACaS5-EAmLLY40rVWZEIjW1E8rkGhfaIjOtxnR8O4XLS8vW3Z3nSEdPb0q-pCA_59fhoxFb8N5hNrpJ-LkXjwKXtZnNKAwSvtqnK3kihvZDmJnNTWAriM_tMai8bO0/s1600/LexCon+2016+VCA+Map.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="340" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjC5vsGYDIQLdTXvACaS5-EAmLLY40rVWZEIjW1E8rkGhfaIjOtxnR8O4XLS8vW3Z3nSEdPb0q-pCA_59fhoxFb8N5hNrpJ-LkXjwKXtZnNKAwSvtqnK3kihvZDmJnNTWAriM_tMai8bO0/s640/LexCon+2016+VCA+Map.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<h3>
<span style="color: blue;"> </span></h3>
<h3>
</h3>
Rickhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12833756859648561368noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9015620870899893461.post-74187811019520407032016-01-07T05:22:00.005-08:002016-01-07T05:23:36.283-08:00New Children's Book Project on Kickstarter: The Fantastic Adventures of Space-RoverI've launched a new children's book series campaign on Kickstarter. Check it out and see some cool rewards you can get for backing the project. Including original artwork, space-ray blasters, sketch cards and posters. Signed copies of the book start at the $12 support level and there are several other levels to choose. Help me spread the word. I'm looking forward to sharing the adventures of Space-Rover with you!<br />
<a href="https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/1510900017/the-fantastic-adventures-of-space-rover-book-1?ref=nav_search">https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/1510900017/the-fantastic-adventures-of-space-rover-book-1?ref=nav_search</a><br />
<br />
<br />
<iframe frameborder="0" height="360" scrolling="no" src="https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/1510900017/the-fantastic-adventures-of-space-rover-book-1/widget/video.html" width="480"> </iframe>Rickhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12833756859648561368noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9015620870899893461.post-64745743131222072822015-10-26T08:39:00.001-07:002016-10-19T13:21:50.383-07:00Kokomo Con 2015<div>
Thanks to everyone who stopped by the Vertically Challenged Artwork booth this year for new paintings of your favorite characters! I enjoyed meeting new fans and seeing old friends from previous years at Kokomo Con. Thanks for picking up copies of the Vertically Challenged comic book and my new collaborative book Frank Jordan: Evil Snowman (with author John Cosper)! It was so much fun to introduce the Vertically Challenged comic to new readers and to see people's reactions to the unique format of the book.</div>
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
<b><i>"Kokomo Con continues to be one of my favorite conventions each year. Shawn Hilton, Austin Meissnest, and Crew are dedicated to indy creators, artists, and fans, and it shows throughout the convention." </i></b></blockquote>
<div>
I enjoy making the trip and reuniting with friends, fellow creators and fans. There's always a great vibe at this show and it's obvious that attendees are enjoying the event. Kokomo Con was the first convention I set up at as an artist and creator when Ramone Cologne's first book came out in 2010. I love this show and the support it has from the organizers and fans who return every year.<br />
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
From a creator's point of view, Kokomo Con offers an amazing amount of booth and table space. I attend about a dozen conventions a year, and Kokomo Con has amazing space and rates for creators. It's great to have so much room to display artwork and books and not feel like you're crowding your neighbors. </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<b>Speaking of neighbors</b>: my neighbor at this year's con was <b>Thunderous Arts</b>, home of the super-talented painter <b>Tabitha Ashley</b> (on Twitter @ThunderousArts). Check out the amazing artwork she paints on vinyl records. I met Tabitha at last year's convention, and this year it was great to be next to her and see so many people enjoying her paintings. I will be commissioning some work from her and once you see her records, you probably will too. Check out her art on facebook at <a href="https://www.facebook.com/thunderousarts">https://www.facebook.com/thunderousarts</a> </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQIGkCkrX9QnWp6pyqzu6caUJ4wxzXGKmW8jj9viOlHGAfQT7-k8JT88X42ssAAK6YIYmlxU16I9quN0HAxAUfiyxj-1K7F-uW9i9vuMHR3ER2bOUCrkHmH0Ag6i-YjoCppEAVownYk20/s1600/Ramone+Comic+Strip.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="376" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQIGkCkrX9QnWp6pyqzu6caUJ4wxzXGKmW8jj9viOlHGAfQT7-k8JT88X42ssAAK6YIYmlxU16I9quN0HAxAUfiyxj-1K7F-uW9i9vuMHR3ER2bOUCrkHmH0Ag6i-YjoCppEAVownYk20/s640/Ramone+Comic+Strip.png" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b>Ramone Cologne, and his biographer Rick McGee, made their first appearance at Kokomo Con in 2010.</b></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3TuW3xL2o6abbT6uX4_TYZ4kHOKKp8Hs9LPYYg_YwMKGiOngr5zDdcXUo84N6q4xQAfFQ_MbPqNB5airLrz3NMOIIxn_OAG6Pcy0KwmCFKa8jlVFhcdoZg7_2j0a1KbtHWZ4lJWC1eCQ/s1600/VC+Cover.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a></div>
<br />
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
</div>
Rickhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12833756859648561368noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9015620870899893461.post-22601668301928639092015-08-31T08:29:00.000-07:002016-10-19T13:23:02.749-07:00<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjVMhiVqVEScaLY5iKdhzKPUZyY3R2Y6F-JLCrP69sfd1oXbuMhNIs5zXgvlC1CFXvS4pl9emU2HmSYrluAYhzoGVTPfrwjFzryalGdn2bM3rmGHt7GtD7rVIOFwMFSI_7EmO-0NVNvrDo/s1600/OC3+4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5VssRt8qv53WMCLls9WrlZ_e37J4-UyzLV2HDYYDDxuL4JcOAyqZffwGywv_bPSckSfZ0bGNZ9cSvP4nXQmQY6GnsFvp2jXXljGEGKwvBglZiodPyF7HKqoRl7IsfG0ttjFK5NSbdeh4/s1600/OC3.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a><br />
<br />
<br />
The second annual OC3 convention was this weekend at the Oldham County Library. I had a great time seeing returning attendees and meeting everyone who came for the first time. I got to introduce lots of people to Vertically Challenged Artwork, both the painting series and the book, and shared Ramone Cologne books with some new fans.<br />
<br />
The Oldham County Library does a tremendous job organizing and running this convention. It's a great family and fan event and the organizers are comic fans and convention-goers themselves. They are very considerate of the artists and vendors and they know what it takes to put on a great show for everyone. I look forward to this convention each year! <a href="http://www.oldhampl.org/oc3.html">http://www.oldhampl.org/oc3.html</a><br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />Rickhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12833756859648561368noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9015620870899893461.post-11852241560582579202015-08-18T13:22:00.001-07:002015-08-18T13:22:39.761-07:00CASA Superhero Run 2015<span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 14.8500003814697px; line-height: 20.7900009155273px;">I've had the privilege again this year to design the artwork for the CASA Superhero Run in Lexington, Kentucky. Coming in September, the race raises funds to help recruit and train volunteers to provide the valuable services of the CASA organization </span><a href="http://www.lexingtoncasa.com/" style="background-color: white; color: #6699cc; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 14.8500003814697px; line-height: 20.7900009155273px; text-decoration: none;" target="_blank">CASA of Lexington</a><span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 14.8500003814697px; line-height: 20.7900009155273px;">. The illustrations I've created this year include promo art for signs and banners, art for the t-shirts and the winner's plaques, and an illustration for the capes that are given to each kid running in the Kids 1K. This event is an amazing and fun time and I'm glad to be involved as an artist, runner, and fundraiser each year. </span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 14.8500003814697px; line-height: 20.7900009155273px;"><br /></span>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiE0LDO94h7MW2ZMC5B-hMwQwrk58J8ASP8UPgES_78AMD75fJLWb6lPaC8rdGg0Eqf4odxliU1qp7GjIEdlH_QxWkxkOT1mvGGh__Sco4X0dYTDxDXzfYZe6dockY1EOSKGVN751b-KYg/s1600/CASA+Shirt+Art+Logo+on+Art+Small.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="474" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiE0LDO94h7MW2ZMC5B-hMwQwrk58J8ASP8UPgES_78AMD75fJLWb6lPaC8rdGg0Eqf4odxliU1qp7GjIEdlH_QxWkxkOT1mvGGh__Sco4X0dYTDxDXzfYZe6dockY1EOSKGVN751b-KYg/s640/CASA+Shirt+Art+Logo+on+Art+Small.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 14.8500003814697px; line-height: 20.7900009155273px;"><br /></span>Rickhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12833756859648561368noreply@blogger.com3