I’m having a devastating financial issue at the moment. I’m sorry for any online silence, but it’s been very stressful for me. I likely won't be back properly until this is sorted.

It’s a long drawn out story which has unravelled since April, but in short, while trying to transfer my life savings between banks, the new bank have admitted to losing my money. My whole life savings. Every penny I’ve ever squirreled away, and which I had ear-marked as the money to pay my way through University. It’s gone. I can’t access it. Vanished.

In more detail, the new bank at first told me all was fine and everything was set up. I received a letter from the new bank saying my transfer instructions to send the money from my old bank to my new bank had been received and it was being processed (that's the order it's done in - you fill in forms and tell your new bank to tell the old bank to send on the money. Odd way to do it, but that's how the banks work).

The new bank card was then reported missing in the post and they issued me a new one (remember this?). They then took over a month to send me online access codes for the new card. Finally that’s received and working. But when I logged in, my cash transfer from my old bank account had still not appeared in my new bank account. I rang the new bank a few times and was repeatedly told to just ‘wait longer.’ But it was eventually revealed this week that they had actually lost my transfer instructions.

This wouldn’t be an issue in itself, but when I called my old bank, they told me the new bank HAD forwarded on my transfer instructions - the old bank HAD sent them my money - and the new bank HAD accepted my money. So where is it? Not in my account. And that was at the beginning of May.

Without this money, I can’t pay my tuition fees for University. I’ve done everything to try and resolve this; I’ve complained to the old bank to chase it up, I’ve complained to the new bank to chase it up. I’ve complained to the new bank’s independent complaints department to look into it. I’ve swapped my transfer instructions with both banks a dozen times. Rang each department that could be held responsible in turn. Next I’ll be complaining to the Financial Ombudsman Service and maybe having to find myself a solicitor. If this isn’t sorted soon, I won’t be attending University in September . . . or I’ll have to consider taking out a private loan, a loan that could cost me huge amounts in interest. But I can’t see myself even getting the loan as I’ll have insubstantial earnings while studying. I can consider begging and borrowing from family, but this could cause massive tension as we are all already very very stretched.

And this doesn’t resolve the fact that my life savings are still missing. I don’t know what more to do. I am completely at the bank’s mercy. I’m just shattered by this and can’t believe such a grievous error could be made.

The bank itself is currently merging with three other banks, forming the second largest bank in the UK. The largest being my old bank. I could maybe understand how this error could happen if I was dealing with a piggybank street corner business, but not these global giants. I have no faith in banks anymore. If I ever see my money again, maybe I should just hide it under my mattress.

==========================================



Hey y'all. Just one week to go until my charity race on June 7th, so please consider sponsoring me so I can blast a wormhole through my $200 target. Any loose change will do. Also the 45,678 kiriban was caught by who wins a free EyeCon.

Current value raised so far: $237.00 USD

The charity race is in June, and I'm still collecting if anyone would like to throw in a dollar and push me into whole new realms of win. If you're sick to the back teeth of this fundraiser, I bet donating would make me shut up faster.



About Race for Life

My employer is promoting the Race for Life to raise money for Cancer Research UK. The charity researches all cancers affecting both genders, supporting scientists, doctors, nurses and cancer patients.

Will you s... ]]> =TheNeonGryphon http://TheNeonGryphon.deviantart.com/journal/24421308/ http://TheNeonGryphon.deviantart.com/journal/24421308/ Sat, 25 Apr 2009 03:30:11 PDT

I am back from my short break, but calamity has struck while I was away.

Checking my post this morning, I decided to give my new bank a ring about some mail with missing information and the fact it had clearly already been opened prior to me receiving it. At first I suspected people in the house of accidentally opening my mail, which they have all done in the past. This time I’m met with denials; no one has touched my mail or taken anything from it mistaking it for their own.

After calling the help desk, it turns out there should have been a card in that mail, which must have been removed. I’m now going to call Royal Mail about the problem, which I expect they will ignore. I don’t suspect the postman, but someone at a sorting desk.

Naturally I’m really angry, but it looks like I put a stop to it before any money was stolen. My identity I’m not so confident about…

What a miserable thing to return to right after my birthday break.

Email, notes and comments I have yet to sort through, but I'll get back to everyone this weekend. Thanks to all for the birthday wishes That picked me up after this little drama.

Current value raised so far: $165.00 USD (Target: $200)

Can anyone spare even a small donation?

My employer is promoting the Race for Life to raise money for Cancer Research UK. The charity researches all cancers affecting both genders, supporting scientists, doctors, nurses and cancer patients.

Will you sponsor me for the five kilometre run? The date for the race is Sunday June 7th and I’m collecting donations all the way up till then (and I think a week or two after – I will clarify when donations can’t be accepted anymore). So if you can't spare a donation now, I'm more than happy to accept one at a later date.

The group is hoping to raise £400 for Cancer Research. That’s a little over £130 each (about $200 USD. Big personal target but I'm really hopeful!).

****** Any donation is welcome in any currency. Every penny is valued. I’m accepting contributions on PayPal at NeonGryphon@hotmail.CO.UK,  but please please clearly mark your payment as ‘sponsorship’ so I can put all the donations on my contributions form.  Be sure to select Personal, not Purchase when sending a donation.*******

( If you're a UK resident and pay tax, let me know so I can tick 'giftaid' on my form, allowing Cancer Research to claim a tax break on your contribution).

I’m considering a costume, but I’m not sure what yet. It’s got to be pink. I don’t want to be a bunny because everyone goes as a bunny. Something that could work in layers because in Britain the summer weather is never guaranteed. No hats or wigs, because it’s annoying running with headgear and I do intend on running the whole thing.

If you’re in the UK and want to join yourself, please check it out here:
https://www.raceforlife.org/default.aspx

The registration fee is £12.99  per person. You have to be female. Sorry gents. Don’t ask me why they made it a women-only  fundraiser.
But sign-up quickly because event spaces are limited.

Click me for an illustrated Buyer’s Guide
Email: NeonGryphon@hotmail.co.uk
Eye-cons = $15 each approx Click here for samples
S.M.A.C commissions = $50USD Click here for details and samples.
Line art figure = $50-$80 USD approx.
Coloured bust shots = $50-$80 approx
One figure colour with simple colour setting = $80-$100 USD approx.
One figure colour with complex colour background = $110-$130 USD approx.
Additional co... ]]> =TheNeonGryphon http://TheNeonGryphon.deviantart.com/journal/24362004/ http://TheNeonGryphon.deviantart.com/journal/24362004/ Tue, 21 Apr 2009 14:47:39 PDT

for a few days.

I'm away this week on a short birthday break, spending it up. So don't be offended if emails don't get answered until the weekend. I already have a backlog - I am just so busy struggling to give everyone the attention they want IRL. And it's supposed to be my birthday, not there's!
Srsly, take a number. -_- Puu

No drams while I'm gone because I would be gutted, just gutted to miss out.


Be back soon, and another year older.

Click me for an illustrated Buyer’s Guide
Email: NeonGryphon@hotmail.co.uk
Eye-cons = $15 each approx Click here for samples
S.M.A.C commissions = $50USD Click here for details and samples.
Line art figure = $50-$80 USD approx.
Coloured bust shots = $50-$80 approx
One figure colour with simple colour setting = $80-$100 USD approx.
One figure colour with complex colour background = $110-$130 USD approx.
Additional colour figure = $80 USD approx.

~~ Actual price may vary depending on complexity ~~ As a rule, I hate blank backgrounds, so a colour figure without a specified complex backgound will get a FREE simple setting of my own design. I always paint something sympathetic to the character, but if you really want it on a blank or transparent backdrop, please just say.

Eye-con commissions – OPEN- [link] -
Switchback -
C. Spriggle commission - colours -
Newenglander -
S.M.A.C discount commissions - OPEN [link] -
Zhon trade

http://TheNeonGryphon.deviantart.com/journal/23435955/ Thu, 02 Apr 2009 18:29:19 PDT

I just wanted to remind everyone that the kiriban is nearly here. You're looking for pageview 45,678. Currently we're at 42,191 after a sudden leap thanks to a surprise DD! - Cheers to everyone who commented, faved or added me to their watch.

If you catch page 45,678, leave a comment here and link me to an upload of the screen cap. There can be only one winner, so first to comment and present a true screen cap grabs the prize of a free EyeCon [link] Best of luck!

==========================================



Current value raised so far: $165.00 USD (Target: $200)

Can anyone spare even a small donation?

My employer is promoting the Race for Life to raise money for Cancer Research UK. The charity researches all cancers affecting both genders, supporting scientists, doctors, nurses and cancer patients.

Will you sponsor me for the five kilometre run? The date for the race is Sunday June 7th and I’m collecting donations all the way up till then (and I think a week or two after – I will clarify when donations can’t be accepted anymore). So if you can't spare a donation now, I'm more than happy to accept one at a later date.

The group is hoping to raise £400 for Cancer Research. That’s a little over £130 each (about $200 USD. Big personal target but I'm really hopeful!).

****** Any donation is welcome in any currency. Every penny is valued. I’m accepting contributions on PayPal at NeonGryphon@hotmail.CO.UK,  but please please clearly mark your payment as ‘sponsorship’ so I can put all the donations on my contributions form.  Be sure to select Personal, not Purchase when sending a donation.*******

( If you're a UK resident and pay tax, let me know so I can tick 'giftaid' on my form, allowing Cancer Research to claim a tax break on your contribution).

I’m considering a costume, but I’m not sure what yet. It’s got to be pink. I don’t want to be a bunny because everyone goes as a bunny. Something that could work in layers because in Britain the summer weather is never guaranteed. No hats or wigs, because it’s annoying running with headgear and I do intend on running the whole thing.

If you’re in the UK and want to join yourself, please check it out here:
https://www.raceforlife.org/default.aspx

The registration fee is £12.99  per person. You have to be female. Sorry gents. Don’t ask me why they made it a women-only  fundraiser.
But sign-up quickly because event spaces are limited.

Click me for an illustrated Buyer’s Guide
Email: NeonGryphon@hotmail.co.uk
Eye-cons = $15 each approx Click here for samples
S.M.A.C commissions = $50USD Click here for details and samples.
Line art figure = $50-$80 USD approx.
Coloured bust shots = $50-$80 approx
One figure colour with simple colour setting = $80-$100 USD approx.
One figure colour with complex colour background = $110-$130 USD approx.
Additional colour figure = $80 USD approx.

~~ Actual price may vary depending on complexity ~~ As a rule, I hate blank backgrounds, so a colour figure without a specified complex backgound will get a FREE simple setting of my own design. I always paint something sympathetic to the character, but if you really want it on a blank or transparent backdrop, please just say.

Eye-con commissions – OPEN- http://TheNeonGryphon.deviantart.com/journal/23326730/ Sat, 21 Feb 2009 15:10:49 PST

Kiriban at 45,678. Winner gets a custom EyeCon [link]

This is a big appreciative thanks to all the new watchers. And also a wave to ~boisenberry for the 1 year subby. Now I can enjoy all the frills a dA sub offers right up until next year when I trade my wacom in for University books and chemistry equations *bawl*

So you want 45,678.

Should 45,678 not step forward with a screen shot, then the closest number after 45,678 will win.

And because of the way dA’s page counter works, only the first person with the qualifying screen cap will get the prize.

If you’ve caught it, screen cap the page with the time stamp in the corner, upload it to your scraps and pass me the link in a comment below.

GOOD LUCK

Click me for an illustrated Buyer’s Guide
Email: NeonGryphon@hotmail.co.uk
Eye-cons = $15 each approx Click here for samples
S.M.A.C commissions = $50USD Click here for details and samples.
Line art figure = $50-$80 USD approx.
Coloured bust shots = $50-$80 approx
One figure colour with simple colour setting = $80-$100 USD approx.
One figure colour with complex colour background = $110-$130 USD approx.
Additional colour figure = $80 USD approx.

~~ Actual price may vary depending on complexity ~~ As a rule, I hate blank backgrounds, so a colour figure without a specified complex backgound will get a FREE simple setting of my own design. I always paint something sympathetic to the character, but if you really want it on a blank or transparent backdrop, please just say.

Eye-con commissions – OPEN- [link] -
Char Reed - Paid-
C. Spriggle commission - paid -
Newenglander commission - paid -
S.M.A.C discount commissions - OPEN [link] -
Zhon trade

http://TheNeonGryphon.deviantart.com/journal/23199238/ Sat, 14 Feb 2009 15:37:36 PST

SCAMS!

Am I ever sick of them. I’m not talking about the recent dA account hijacking scam. This is a scams rant (plural).

I’ve be selling some old bits online, scrumming up some cash during the credit crunch. Genuine buyers I’ve had very few of. But what I have suffered is a slew of scam artists. People out ardently trying to rob me of my belongings. And let’s be honest, they’re not even that valuable. The main attention grabbers being a bike and an old car for a few hundred pounds. But this doesn’t seem to deter the con men, for surely this is a profitable business.

It started with the typical template emails responding to my adverts. Now I’m advertising with respectable local companies that offer things like telephone safe-system. In theory, they filter out the con-men and the canvassers. But the email doesn’t have that kind of protection, so you just have to know what a scam looks like. Did I ever get a lot. A LOT.

The first litter of emails I ignore. Enjoy one, it’s classy. Not suspect at all.

"Dear seller, I am most interested in item I see for sale on your ad. Please could you be telling me the number of previous owners and your final best offer for this? I would like it if you would remove the advert as immediate effect and consider it sold to me. For this I am happy to add an extra £20 onto the sale for your courtesy. Please if you could send address to which I will forward a courier with cheque and have the item ready for sale. I would need
Your name for payment
Your address and telephone.
If you prefer bank payment from BACS please include account and codes for debit. I thank you and look forward to your corresponding."

Many similar follow, all using identical templates. Classic phrases such as “courier” “cheque” “extra if consider it sold to me and remove the advert.”

No, no, no! How frustrating when I need to get these things sold.

But then, to have a scammer have the balls, the audacity to call me at home today. To negotiate around the caller protection system and still fake they are a genuine buyer, as though I hadn’t heard this spiel a dozen times before in the last three weeks in my emails. Yes, I pitched a fit at the fraud. Yes, he maintained he was genuine right till the end before calling me a rotten b*tch, with his smarmy turns of phrase and sleazy pledges that he’s such an upstanding individual: his cheque as ‘good as cash,’ the courier his ‘Dad’s mate.’ Who do these people think they are? And why is the world full of so many idiots that these scammers are encouraged into doing this for a living?

So when I log onto my email each day, and I glance at my junk mail and see 10 new scam messages (lets not count the emails selling Viagra, offering me bigger genitals I don’t posses to begin with, or hot luvin teen lust on live stream), it’s enough to make me want to super haX0R the interwebs in that unreal and completely impossible Die Hard 4 way.
Scammers – they be stealing the internetz.

And you, what's the best scam you've ever had? What amazing feat of pure scammer genius have you suffered? Did you get fooled? Go on, admit it if you did. Or did you outwit these masterminds who plainly are the most intellectual beings in existence, we are but their pawns. Oh woe is us.

Poll - click link - it's not a scam, fo' real. [link]

Click me for an illustrated Buyer’s Guide
Email: NeonGryphon@hotmail.co.uk
Eye-cons = $15 each approx Click here for samples
S.M.A.C commissions = $50USD Click here for details and samples.
Line art figure = $50-$80 USD approx.
Coloured bust shots = $50-$80 approx
One figure colour with simple colour setting = $80-$100 USD approx.
One figure colour with complex colour background = $110-$130 USD approx.
Additional colour figure = $80 USD approx.

~~ Actual price may vary depending on complexity ~~ As a rule, I hate blank backgrounds, so a colour figure without a specified complex ba... ]]> =TheNeonGryphon http://TheNeonGryphon.deviantart.com/journal/22391470/ http://TheNeonGryphon.deviantart.com/journal/22391470/ Sun, 04 Jan 2009 10:39:36 PST

Welcome, 2009. Come in, sit down, stay a year. But don’t cause me hassle like 2008 did.

COMMISSIONS are OPEN. If you enquired about a commission in Nov-Dec 2008 I am now free to take on the work. All new enquries or orders are very welcome. Priority is given – as always – to those that pay first.
My turnover is going to be very productive over the next month or two as I fight like crazy to replace my 16 year old banger-mobile. What does Fiat stand for? Fix It Again, Tony.

Currently I have four open slots and two people who’ve paid for reservations. Want to reserve a spot? You need a 50% deposit of the commission value.
Payment types - Internationally accept PayPal. United Kingdom cheque. Cash at own risk.

What do you get for your money? 1) High resolution printable file or original. 2) Sketch and colour work-in-progress shots for your approval throughout the entire procedure, available at all times via URL. 3) Three minor alterations at the sketch stage. Colour alterations anytime where within my abilities. 4) Prints made to order.

Ordering
Click the link to jump straight to the order form. Simply copy and paste the text into a new e-mail and send to NeonGryphon@hotmail.co.uk [link]

Click me for an illustrated Buyer’s Guide
Email: NeonGryphon@hotmail.co.uk
Eye-cons = $15 each approx Click here for samples
S.M.A.C commissions = $50USD Click here for details and samples.
Line art figure = $50-$80 USD approx.
Coloured bust shots = $50-$80 approx
One figure colour with simple colour setting = $80-$100 USD approx.
One figure colour with complex colour background = $110-$130 USD approx.
Additional colour figure = $80 USD approx.

~~ Actual price may vary depending on complexity ~~ As a rule, I hate blank backgrounds, so a colour figure without a specified complex backgound will get a FREE simple setting of my own design. I always paint something sympathetic to the character, but if you really want it on a blank or transparent backdrop, please just say.

Eye-con commissions – OPEN- [link] -
Char Reed - Paid-
C. Spriggle commission - paid -
Newenglander commission - paid -
S.M.A.C discount commissions - OPEN [link] -
Zhon trade

http://TheNeonGryphon.deviantart.com/journal/22192572/ Thu, 25 Dec 2008 14:20:13 PST

(How come my beta journal posts blanks in firefox but is ok in I.E?)

SO Christmas - was your stocking fit to busting? Did you even have a stocking? As kids we used to pull our pressies out of a pair of old tights. Awesome times. Awesome 80s. Awesome 90s as well, because I'm not really that old 8P~ desu desu

What was the best thing you got for Christmas this year?

Mine was an ipod shuffle from *heart heart*
It's so cool and tiny. But I dunno where to inset the CD.

My pile of goodies wasn't heaving, but I had a lovely Christmas. Truly the best thing for me was no arguments, and no chaotic relatives ruining my merry time. Everyone was really good to one another. And no flu, because that spoilt everything last year from Christmas day to New Year and beyond. Jeez, I get upset just thinking back to that . . .

But now most favourite time of the year comes next. Not New Year, no. January sales!

Have some seasonal icons from festive people I've spotted.





Send me links to icons and I'll add them. Do it quick, because Christmas is nearly oooooveeeer D=

Click me for a Buyer’s Guide
Email: NeonGryphon@hotmail.co.uk
Eye-cons = $15 each approx.
Line art figure = $50-$80 USD approx.
Coloured bust shots = $50-$80 approx
One figure colour with simple colour setting = $80-$100 USD approx.
One figure colour with complex colour background = $110-$130 USD approx.
Additional colour figure = $80 USD approx.

~~ Actual price may vary depending on complexity ~~ As a rule, I hate blank backgrounds, so a colour figure without a specified complex backgound will get a FREE simple setting of my own design. I always paint something sympathetic to the character, but if yo... ]]> =TheNeonGryphon http://TheNeonGryphon.deviantart.com/journal/22002462/ http://TheNeonGryphon.deviantart.com/journal/22002462/ Mon, 15 Dec 2008 17:27:44 PST

The parcel mystery has been solved. Unfortunately the package has to be returned to sender for various reasons which is a real shame, and I hope they can recoup some of their lost funds. But thanks to everyone who sent me links and info, alleviated my concerns about a scam and helped me work out what was going on with this strange bill.

Well, after all that I am going to try and regain my Christmas Cheer with some festive artwork. I’m not sure if it should be fan art based, or something original.

Any suggestions? Last year I did Lackadaisy [link] Maybe I should do a sequel?

Oh right, and the new beta layout - what do you think? Pretty bitchin' But let me appeal to all the beta users and ask them to keep their favourites on the front page! I like to browse that hot totty.

Click me for a Buyer’s Guide
Email: NeonGryphon@hotmail.co.uk
Eye-cons = $15 each approx.
Line art figure = $50-$80 USD approx.
Coloured bust shots = $50-$80 approx
One figure colour with simple colour setting = $80-$100 USD approx.
One figure colour with complex colour background = $110-$130 USD approx.
Additional colour figure = $80 USD approx.

~~ Actual price may vary depending on complexity ~~ As a rule, I hate blank backgrounds, so a colour figure without a specified complex backgound will get a FREE simple setting of my own design. I always paint something sympathetic to the character, but if you really want it on a blank or transparent backdrop, please just say.

Eye-con commissions – closed for Christmas. Open in January - [link] -
S. Greenway pet illustration commission - Paid-
C. Spriggle commission - colour pending -
Newenglander commission - paid -
S.M.A.C discount commissions - OPEN [link] -
ArrinKirr commission - paid -
Tyrrlin commission - paid -
Zhon trade

http://TheNeonGryphon.deviantart.com/journal/21966527/ Mon, 15 Dec 2008 07:19:50 PST

EDIT: I have removed the link to the letter as there were several people either offering to pay, or hinting at paying the customs charge. Please everyone, I am very grateful for your help but at this time I am only interested in knowing the contents of the package and who it was from. The mystery is beginning to unravel but it looks like it may have to go back to the sender for various reasons, not just due to customs charges. Paying the charges may make things more difficult at this time. Thanks anyway though, I am really surprised and appreciative of all this Christmas spirit and giving

Original post follows:

HELP!

I got this letter in the post today and the more I’ve looked at it, the more I believe it might be a scam.

The letter is from parcelforce, though the envelope wasn’t stamped with a return depot address, wasn’t headed but was pre-paid. It doesn’t have a watermark and looks just like a run of the mill printer job.

I’m confused because I have NOT ordered anything from the US, and I certainly have not used parcelforce… Primarily because I hate their guts! Don’t we all.

VAT at UK 15% will indicate a parcel worth about £200 pound sterling. I do not know anybody who would send me valuables to that amount. I really haven’t ordered anything, and I don’t have £200 to flounce either – I haven’t noticed any money going missing from any of my accounts. They want me to pay £37.68p (exchange $54.89 USD - wow that’s a bad exchange rate, jebus!), then they will deliver the parcel. I don’t know what’s in it as no customs declaration was included (odd, right?). The letter pretty much says you can’t dispute the charges and have 20 days to pay. I am used to receiving obvious scam emails like this asking me to 'confirm delivery' for hugely exspensive items, but this is the first time something has been sent in the post.

At the end of the day, I don’t have £37.68 to pay off customs. To put it into perspective, I spend £16 a week on grocery shopping and keep tight purse strings. So in short, I can’t meet these charges anyway and the parcel will be going back assuming there really is a parcel at all.

I rang the number but there was no operator available and I was kept on hold. I was at work at the time and couldn’t stay on hold long before giving up. Then after 12.30 the line was closed. My colleague is adamant this is a fraudulent letter. I can’t try again until Monday.

Please, if you have sent me something, let me know so I can relax. I am now fretting that someone has either bought something using my details, or some fraudster has my details and is trying to sucker money out of me. I guess £40 might not seem much to scam you over, but the cumulative value would be.

Likewise though (and not knowing how to phrase this without sounding like an ungrateful arse), if someone genuinely has paid for something to be shipped over, I do appreciate it, but the package will have to go back after 20 days because of the import duty. I guess it’s a good thing they would hold a parcel ransom without delivering. I would be aghast if I got this invoice after a delivery.

What does everyone think? Does it seem genuine or are there too many suspicious circumstances? Thanks for the help, guys.

UPDATE Ok, thanks to Sam I realised I could plug the parcel number into the genuine .com website and got tracking details. The parcel is real, shipped from Jersey City. But I don't know anyone from there, so I'm still bewildered by what this is and who sent it.

Maybe someone bought something covertly off my wishlist? Where does dA ship from if you are a USA buyer? Thanks again for your help, everyone.

Click me for a Buyer’s Guide
Email: NeonGryphon@hotmail.co.uk
Eye-cons = $15 each approx.
Line art figure = $50-$80 USD approx.
Coloured bust shots = $50-$80 approx
One figure colour with simple colour setting = $80-$100 USD approx.
One figure colour with complex colour background = $110-$130 USD approx.
Additional colour figure = $80 USD approx.

~~ Actual price may... ]]> =TheNeonGryphon http://TheNeonGryphon.deviantart.com/journal/21918853/ http://TheNeonGryphon.deviantart.com/journal/21918853/ Wed, 10 Dec 2008 17:05:46 PST

Thanks to *R-Eventide for a three month subby! In celebration it’s time for a new journal; one that’s a little easier on the retinas than that scorching pink on black. *eye-thumb*

So what are you all expecting Santa to bring you this year? What’s the weirdest thing on your Christmas list? What are your demands? Come on, the fat b*stard should cough-up whatever you ask. It’s not like he does anything else for the other 364 days of the year, is it? Assuming he’s real of course. Which we all know he is.

Personally I want one of these: [link]

Anyway, to business. Commissions are closed over Christmas. Everything is up-to-date and I am going to enjoy the festivities *without* contracting flu this year. Wish me luck with that.

Commissions will open fresh in January.

Click me for a Buyer’s Guide
Email: NeonGryphon@hotmail.co.uk
Eye-cons = $15 each approx.
Line art figure = $50-$80 USD approx.
Coloured bust shots = $50-$80 approx
One figure colour with simple colour setting = $80-$100 USD approx.
One figure colour with complex colour background = $110-$130 USD approx.
Additional colour figure = $80 USD approx.

~~ Actual price may vary depending on complexity ~~ As a rule, I hate blank backgrounds, so a colour figure without a specified complex backgound will get a FREE simple setting of my own design. I always paint something sympathetic to the character, but if you really want it on a blank or transparent backdrop, please just say.

Eye-con commissions – closed for Christmas. Open in January - [link] -
S. Greenway pet illustration commission - Paid-
C. Spriggle commission - colour pending -
Newenglander commission - paid -
S.M.A.C discount commissions - OPEN [link] -
ArrinKirr commission - paid -
Tyrrlin commission - paid -
Zhon trade

http://TheNeonGryphon.deviantart.com/journal/21142558/ Fri, 24 Oct 2008 15:34:14 PDT

Or a loved one.

For a short period of time I’m offering S.M.A.C

Surprise
Make-over
Alter-Ego
Commissions

These are refined digital line art commissions at high resolution with a free border/setting:
Example:[link]
Example:[link]
Example:[link]
Example:[link]
Example:[link]





How it works

You show me the character you want illustrated, then you chose between two and four possible make-overs/alter-egos/transformations.

The catch is you won’t know which one I’ve chosen until it’s done. S.M.A.C is ideal for anyone who is a laid-back kind of person with adventurous ideas for their character.

I’m offering these at $50 USD each, which is an awful lot cheaper than my usual charge. But there can be **no** alterations to the finished project and besides the initial concept ideas, I’ll be working with a free artistic rein on your character. I pick the design, pose and style. At the end you'll get a high-res large digital file.

You'll need:
* Paypal (only payment option I offer)
* You must have an image reference(s) of your character for me to work from.

If you really like your result, I can even colour it for an extra charge later.

Example ideas: But not limited to just these!
Your character transformed: anime to anthro, species to species. Gender to gender. If I reckon it’s within my abilities, I’ll draw it!

Your character made-over: a new outfit, new style, a seasonal theme like Christmas or Halloween, Valentines or Easter. New attitude with a new look. Dude in a dress.

Your original character in a cosplay outfit. All FanArt is O.K. Just be sure to link me to some good image references.

Whatever your ideas, pitch them to me in your order.
If you want to gift S.M.A.C someone, that’s fine with me. Just let me know who. I can even gift it to them if you want to stay anonymous.

Order Sheet – Please send to NeonGryphon@hotmail.co.uk Please do NOT send money until I have confirmed your order. Paypal only please. Thank you.

Character Name:
Starting Generic Species:
Image references of the character as they cur... ]]> =TheNeonGryphon http://TheNeonGryphon.deviantart.com/journal/20937811/ http://TheNeonGryphon.deviantart.com/journal/20937811/ Sat, 11 Oct 2008 13:31:06 PDT

HEY YOU!

Know of any good painterly tutorials for PhotoShop?

I’ve been scanning around on search engines at various websites, and I’ve only found a scant few tuts.

It’s like those with the technique just don’t want to share their tricks. There must be a magic painterly-style-insta-colour filter which is very hush-hush to be guarded with such fervent secrecy.

A painterly effect is one thing that has always evaded me in PhotoShop. I am so sick of that bleary airbrush look to my artwork, even when I don’t use airbrush! It’s like the giveaway trait of PShop users. I must be on an art downer, because I am so fed up of my gallery I would shred it pixels if it were possible. I will declare war or conspiracy if these techniques elude me for much longer.

Please help me if you can before I commit articide with a blunt prisma.

P.S DA's 20% sale is still TOO EXPENSIVE.

Click me for a Buyer’s Guide
Email: NeonGryphon@hotmail.co.uk
Eye-cons = $15 each approx.
Line art figure = $45 USD approx.
Coloured bust shots = $50 approx
One figure colour with simple colour setting = $80-$100 USD approx.
One figure colour with complex colour background = $110-$130 USD approx.
Additional colour figure = $80 USD approx.

~~ Actual price may vary depending on complexity ~~ As a rule, I hate blank backgrounds, so a colour figure without a specified complex backgound will get a FREE simple setting of my own design. I always paint something sympathetic to the character, but if you really want it on a blank or transparent backdrop, please just say.

Eye-con commissions - REOPENED -
S. Greenway pet illustration commission - pending-
C. Spriggle commission - line art paid -
Newenglander commission - paid -
Nmnighteyes sculpey commission - paid -
ArrinKirr commission - paid -
Tyrrlin commission - paid -
Zhon trade http://TheNeonGryphon.deviantart.com/journal/20879078/ Tue, 07 Oct 2008 18:11:38 PDT

Holiday time!
Starting now I have a few days off work.
No more sickly patients coughing and sneezing on me, no more short-tempered customers spitting rage when we don’t have their full sack of drugs in-stock. No more pressured parents treating the pharmacy like a McDonalds and throwing hissy fits when their shipping order of a prescription isn’t bagged and in their hand in 30 seconds or less. No more kids licking my counter.
For a few days at least!
It makes me so happy.

But I need some entertainment for inbetween my commissions, and I'm all out of anime. Any suggestions? Anything new, anything old and overlooked?

Phoenix Wright is only ever going to get me so far this weekend.

Click me for a Buyer’s Guide
Email: NeonGryphon@hotmail.co.uk
Eye-cons = $15 each approx.
Line art figure = $45 USD approx.
Coloured bust shots = $50 approx
One figure colour with simple colour setting = $80-$100 USD approx.
One figure colour with complex colour background = $110-$130 USD approx.
Additional colour figure = $80 USD approx.

~~ Actual price may vary depending on complexity ~~ As a rule, I hate blank backgrounds, so a colour figure without a specified complex backgound will get a FREE simple setting of my own design. I always paint something sympathetic to the character, but if you really want it on a blank or transparent backdrop, please just say.

Eye-con commissions - REOPENED -
S. Greenway pet illustration commission - pending-
C. Spriggle commission - line art paid -
Newenglander commission - paid -
Nmnighteyes sculpey commission - paid -
ArrinKirr commission - paid -
Tyrrlin commission - paid -
Zhon trade

http://TheNeonGryphon.deviantart.com/journal/20671063/ Thu, 25 Sep 2008 15:21:34 PDT

I’m feeling a lot better after some meds for my chest infection. Things are still slow though while I get back into my working routine. There’s been a lot of job pressure recently, and some really shocking and upsetting news. Today one of our tenants was very distressed because his friend and neighbour hung himself from the apartment block’s stairwell last night. Other tenants who walked in to find the poor man still alive did their best to get help, but the man could not be saved. The young couple who found him have now moved out and have understandably refused to go back. Our tenant is of course really broken up about it because he slept through the calls for help and didn’t hear a thing. Poor guy. I don’t know what to make of it really. The tenant that died is not our tenant, and I didn’t know him. But obviously it’s not something you ever expect to happen, and I’m having trouble agreeing to go into the flats myself now.
In some impossible way, I fell like there is something I could have done for this man who I never knew.

Click me for a Buyer’s Guide
Email: NeonGryphon@hotmail.co.uk
Eye-cons = $15 each approx.
Line art figure = $45 USD approx.
Coloured bust shots = $50 approx
One figure colour with simple colour setting = $80-$100 USD approx.
One figure colour with complex colour background = $110-$130 USD approx.
Additional colour figure = $80 USD approx.

~~ Actual price may vary depending on complexity ~~ As a rule, I hate blank backgrounds, so a colour figure without a specified complex backgound will get a FREE simple setting of my own design. I always paint something sympathetic to the character, but if you really want it on a blank or transparent backdrop, please just say.

Eye-con commissions - closed -
S. Greenway pet illustration commission - pending-
Newenglander commission - paid -
Nmnighteyes sculpey commission - paid -
ArrinKirr commission - paid -
Tyrrlin commission - paid -
Zhon trade

http://TheNeonGryphon.deviantart.com/journal/20510839/ Mon, 15 Sep 2008 18:07:20 PDT

** All commissions paused due to sickness **



Sorry, but I'm making mistakes and wasting effort while I'm ill. Forcing myself to draw and colour when poorly just isn't a sensible use of time. Really sorry everyone who is relying on me to get work done. Thanks for the understanding. I hope I get better soon, I really do. It feels like it's going on forever.

Click me for a Buyer’s Guide
Email: NeonGryphon@hotmail.co.uk
Eye-cons = $15 each approx.
Line art figure = $45 USD approx.
Coloured bust shots = $50 approx
One figure colour with simple colour setting = $80-$100 USD approx.
One figure colour with complex colour background = $110-$130 USD approx.
Additional colour figure = $80 USD approx.

~~ Actual price may vary depending on complexity ~~ As a rule, I hate blank backgrounds, so a colour figure without a specified complex backgound will get a FREE simple setting of my own design. I always paint something sympathetic to the character, but if you really want it on a blank or transparent backdrop, please just say.

Eye-con commissions - closed -
S. Greenway pet illustration commission - pending-
Newenglander commission - paid -
Nmnighteyes sculpey commission - paid -
ArrinKirr commission - paid -
Tyrrlin commission - paid -
Zhon trade

http://TheNeonGryphon.deviantart.com/journal/20490139/ Sun, 14 Sep 2008 13:34:30 PDT

Sorry for the really slow progress on commissions and lack of email replies. I’ve picked up a virus or something from work and it’s made me really poorly and limp-lunged. I should make it my motto not to go to work when I feel unwell, but because they refuse to pay you for the first three days of sickness, you always feel completely trapped and forced to go in regardless. They should reconsider that policy for people who work in pharmacy; I feel like I’ve had something germy every month this year T^T It’s not been a good one.

Today was my day off and I stayed bundled up in bed. I hope the 24 hours rest works and I start getting better tomorrow. I have so much stuff to do and people are counting on me. Being ill for more than a few days just makes me even more stressed.

Uh, sorry to all the new watchers. This is a pretty lousy start, I know. m(-_-)m

Click me for a Buyer’s Guide
Email: NeonGryphon@hotmail.co.uk
Eye-cons = $15 each approx.
Line art figure = $45 USD approx.
Coloured bust shots = $50 approx
One figure colour with simple colour setting = $80-$100 USD approx.
One figure colour with complex colour background = $110-$130 USD approx.
Additional colour figure = $80 USD approx.

~~ Actual price may vary depending on complexity ~~ As a rule, I hate blank backgrounds, so a colour figure without a specified complex backgound will get a FREE simple setting of my own design. I always paint something sympathetic to the character, but if you really want it on a blank or transparent backdrop, please just say.

Eye-con commissions - closed -
S. Greenway pet illustration commission - pending-
Newenglander commission - paid -
Nmnighteyes sculpey commission - paid -
ArrinKirr commission - paid -
Tyrrlin commission - paid -
Zhon trade

=TheNeonGryphon http://TheNeonGryphon.deviantart.com/journal/20308649/ http://TheNeonGryphon.deviantart.com/journal/20308649/ Wed, 03 Sep 2008 14:09:44 PDT

Commissions are closed. I don’t know when they’ll open again; I’m having a hard time keeping up with my commitments and I don't want it to affect my standard of work.

Sorry if you missed that little window. If I open commissions again, I’ll announce it in my journals.

Thanks to everyone for all the interest and support.

Click me for a Buyer’s Guide
Email: NeonGryphon@hotmail.co.uk
Eye-cons = $15 each approx.
Line art figure = $45 USD approx.
Coloured bust shots = $50 approx
One figure colour with simple colour setting = $80-$100 USD approx.
One figure colour with complex colour background = $110-$130 USD approx.
Additional colour figure = $80 USD approx.

~~ Actual price may vary depending on complexity ~~ As a rule, I hate blank backgrounds, so a colour figure without a specified complex backgound will get a FREE simple setting of my own design. I always paint something sympathetic to the character, but if you really want it on a blank or transparent backdrop, please just say.

Eye-con commissions - closed -
S. Greenway pet illustration commission - pending-
Newenglander commission - paid -
Nmnighteyes sculpey commission - paid -
ArrinKirr commission - paid -
Tyrrlin commission - paid -
Zhon trade

http://TheNeonGryphon.deviantart.com/journal/20269641/ Mon, 01 Sep 2008 10:41:55 PDT

Either PShop or my wacom Intuos is a phat biotch.

Whenever I open PShop it does not initially detect the pressure sensitivity on my stylus and I have to either reboot the computer, or repeatedly shut and open PhotoShop before it eventually works properly. The best way to get PS to recognise the stylus pressure is to go into the wacom properties and test the pressure sensitivity (which is always working fine), and check that Photoshop 7 and CS3 are still listed under wacom’s applications. Likewise they are always listed, so I don’t know what the major malfunction is. I do this, reopen PS and magically it’s working (90% chance of success).

So why do I have to do this each time when everything is clearly already set-up? What is going on? Any help is really appreciated.

Despite that, commissions are coming along at a good pace. When I’m not at work, I’m at home mashing my pencils against my sketch book. I say mash because I cut my drawing hand and scratched my eye in the same tragic garden accident involving a dog and a mushy pear. TRU STORY.

Click me for a Buyer’s Guide
Email: NeonGryphon@hotmail.co.uk
Eye-cons = $15 each approx.
Line art figure = $45 USD approx.
Coloured bust shots = $50 approx
One figure colour with simple colour setting = $80-$100 USD approx.
One figure colour with complex colour background = $110-$130 USD approx.
Additional colour figure = $80 USD approx.

~~ Actual price may vary depending on complexity ~~ As a rule, I hate blank backgrounds, so a colour figure without a specified complex backgound will get a FREE simple setting of my own design. I always paint something sympathetic to the character, but if you really want it on a blank or transparent backdrop, please just say.

Eye-con commissions - closed -
S. Greenway pet illustration commission - pending-
Newenglander commission - paid -
Nmnighteyes sculpey commission - paid -
ArrinKirr commission - deposit paid -
Tyrrlin commission - paid -
Zhon trade

http://TheNeonGryphon.deviantart.com/journal/20063226/ Wed, 20 Aug 2008 16:05:22 PDT

Commissions are open again.

I didn’t get much art done for myself over the last 2 weeks because I was too busy player Persona 3
But the important thing is I got a good rest and I’m feeling reenergised.


Please note or email me if you'd like a commission. All details are below. Thank you

Click me for a Buyer’s Guide
Email: NeonGryphon@hotmail.co.uk
Eye-cons = $15 each approx.
Line art figure = $45 USD approx.
Coloured bust shots = $50 approx
One figure colour with simple colour setting = $80-$100 USD approx.
One figure colour with complex colour background = $110-$130 USD approx.
Additional colour figure = $80 USD approx.

~~ Actual price may vary depending on complexity ~~ As a rule, I hate blank backgrounds, so a colour figure without a specified complex backgound will get a FREE simple setting of my own design. I always paint something sympathetic to the character, but if you really want it on a blank or transparent backdrop, please just say.

Eye-con commissions - closed -
S. Greenway pet illustration commission - pending-
Newenglander commission - paid -
Nmnighteyes sculpey commission - paid -
ArrinKirr commission - deposit paid -
Tyrrlin commission - paid -
Zhon trade

http://TheNeonGryphon.deviantart.com/journal/19608433/ Sat, 26 Jul 2008 14:33:27 PDT

I'm closing commissions for a while (except for EyeCons [link]) because I am so burnt out.

I really need a change of scene and subject. I know loads of my watches are furry/dragon/gryph fans, but I've been knocked senseless by them for a very very very long time now. The genre that is. Not the watchers. You guys have kept me going with your support and encouragement and I really appreciate the time you spend looking at my work, writing comments and sharing your art in return. But now I’m looking to try out a few different styles and subjects, if only to satisfy myself and test my ability to adapt.

There were a lot of people offering anthro, animal and monster trades in my last journal, though truly I don’t fancy going in for one of those right now; so please don’t be offended if I didn’t get back to you. I couldn’t reply to all the comments, but I was really blown-away by the enthusiasm.

For now I just want to indulge in something a little different from my usual genre. It’s probably just a phase which will only last as long as my bank balance will allow. Then it’ll be back to commissions I’m sure.

Thanks everyone

Click me for a Buyer’s Guide
Eye-cons = $15 each approx.
Line art figure = $45 USD approx.
Coloured bust shots = $50 approx
One figure colour with simple colour setting = $80-$100 USD approx.
One figure colour with complex colour background = $110-$130 USD approx.
Additional colour figure = $80 USD approx.

Actual price may vary depending on complexity. As a rule, I hate blank backgrounds, so a colour figure without a specified complex backgound will get a FREE simple setting. But if you really want it on blank, please just say.

Eye-con commissions - OPEN -
C. Spriggle commission #5 - Paid -
Fen_ra commission - Paid -
Newenglander commission - Paid -
Zhon trade

http://TheNeonGryphon.deviantart.com/journal/19585524/ Fri, 25 Jul 2008 06:46:12 PDT

Art trade.

I have a space for an art trade, but like a right snob I have a few requests. They're not too harsh but pretty honest:

** Seriously, I appreciate the enthusiasm, but please read below. Please don't post anthro, dragons, animals or gryphs desudesu!!! **

No furries or anthros. Sorry! I’m commissioned for SO many furries and animal characters, I really fancy a change. This includes non-morphic dogs, wolves and multi-coloured whatever creatures with fuzzy bits.

No dragons. Same as above. Plus all the wings and scales, jeeez. They sometimes burn my art-soul right to the core. And I hate being burned-out.

Anime is awesomesauce, manga is hot. Goth makes me joygasm and macabre is just as yummy.
On the flip side, fru-fru, lolita, fluff, sparkles and cute~chu~chu~sexy~beam are also up there in my favs category.

I’ll draw guys or gals.

I get to pick my media. You get to pick your media.

I’ll draw fan art (if I know the show O_o). I won’t draw comic heroes like Batman, Spiderman etc etc. Not my scene at all. Sorry.

Fair-trade. I’m looking for someone who can perhaps offer me something of equal time, effort and dare I say skill-level. I’m not trying to be some kind of elitist jerk, but I do work hard on trades so I really want to swap something like-for-like.

No illegal stuff. No weird fetishes. Nothing rated over mature.

I prefer visual references if possible. I have many in return.

What I’m trading: I have some manga/anime-esk humanoid characters for various tastes. Some macabre characters. Some goth. Some super-cute. They’re all really open for interpretation and I have no hard-core rules about their clothes or general design. So if you like a lot of artistic freedom then trade me up.

If you’re interested, comment here with what you fancy drawing, and what I could draw for you.

I do have time for it over the next few weeks. So I’ll be matching the pace of whoever I trade with.

This isn’t first come first served. I’ll be picking something that appeals. I’m also dead damn nosey and want to see your characters Please show me them.

Click me for a Buyer’s Guide
Eye-cons = $15 each approx.
Line art figure = $45 USD approx.
Coloured bust shots = $50 approx
One figure colour with simple colour setting = $80-$100 USD approx.
One figure colour with complex colour background = $110-$130 USD approx.
Additional colour figure = $80 USD approx.

Actual price may vary depending on complexity. As a rule, I hate blank backgrounds, so a colour figure without a specified complex backgound will get a FREE simple setting. But if you really want it on blank, please just say.

Eye-con commissions. Re-Opened -
C. Spriggle commission #5 - Paid -
Fen_ra commission - Paid - http://TheNeonGryphon.deviantart.com/journal/19329975/ Fri, 11 Jul 2008 09:43:13 PDT

Can anyone recommend me an anime? I can’t find anything interesting which I haven’t already watched. It's all a bit same-old-same-old.

Enjoyed:
Fruits Basket
Full Metal Alchemist
Ouran Host Club
Death Note - except the mess they made of the last few episodes D=
Hellsing
Hell Girl
Chobits
Cowboy Beebop
Elfen Lied
Samurai Champloo
The Melancholy of Haruhi Suzumiya
GHIBLI movies

Dislike/Can’t get into:
Naruto
Avatar
One Piece
Noir
Ergo Proxy
Gravitation
Ghost in the Shell

Neutral/Okay
Bleach
Wolf’s Rain
Hack Sign
Trigun
Tengen Topper Gurren-Lagann
Love Hina

Cheers 8F

Click me for a Buyer’s Guide
Eye-cons = $15 each approx.
Line art figure = $45 USD approx.
Coloured bust shots = $50 approx
One figure colour with simple colour setting = $80-$100 USD approx.
One figure colour with complex colour background = $110-$130 USD approx.
Additional colour figure = $80 USD approx.

Actual price may vary depending on complexity. As a rule, I hate blank backgrounds, so a colour figure without a specified complex backgound will get a FREE simple setting. But if you really want it on blank, please just say.

Eye-con commissions. Re-Opened -
C. Spriggle commission #5 - Paid -
Fen_ra commission - Paid -
Newenglander commission - Paid -
Zhon trade

=TheNeonGryphon http://TheNeonGryphon.deviantart.com/journal/19129698/ http://TheNeonGryphon.deviantart.com/journal/19129698/ Mon, 30 Jun 2008 14:36:33 PDT

I really really need a good rotary paper trimmer/guillotine. Cutting size A3 (about 14 inches plus). But they are all so expensive. Anyone using a decent but cost-effective one at the moment?

Click me for a Buyer’s Guide
Eye-cons = $15 each approx.
Line art figure = $45 USD approx.
Coloured bust shots = $50 approx
One figure colour with simple colour setting = $80-$100 USD approx.
One figure colour with complex colour background = $110-$130 USD approx.
Additional colour figure = $80 USD approx.

Actual price may vary depending on complexity. As a rule, I hate blank backgrounds, so a colour figure without a specified complex backgound will get a FREE simple setting. But if you really want it on blank, please just say.

Eye-con commissions. Re-Opened -
C. Spriggle commission #5 - to pay -
Fen_ra commission - 100% paid -
Newenglander commission - paid -
Zhon trade

]]> =TheNeonGryphon http://TheNeonGryphon.deviantart.com/journal/18878587/ http://TheNeonGryphon.deviantart.com/journal/18878587/ Fri, 20 Jun 2008 15:05:08 PDT

Just started my first Furbuy auction:

Furbuy auction CLOSED - low first-time start to hopefully stir up some interest! Pretty excited to be starting over at Furbuy. It seems a lot more user friendly than Furbid. In future I'll probably offer one commission on each site rather than all my openings on one or the other - I know there's a fandom split between the two.

New commission opening over at Furbid:

Furbid Auction - I forgot to mention the Furbid Buy-it-Now price is for a full colour character with a complex background of your choosing (or 2 chars, minimum background). Sorry that wasn't clear before.

I’m also booking people in for commissions over the summer. So please, if you’re interested in some artwork, feel free to fill in the order form behind the link and just drop it to me at NeonGryphon@hotmail.co.uk. I’ll get back to you with a price quote asap. Sending me an order form does not mean you are obliged to pay for anything. Enquiries cost nothing

Many thanks.

Order form/price enquiries form: [link]

Click me for a Buyer’s Guide
Eye-cons = $15 each approx.
Line art figure = $45 USD approx.
Coloured bust shots = $50 approx
One figure colour with simple colour setting = $80-$100 USD approx.
One figure colour with complex colour background = $110-$130 USD approx.
Additional colour figure = $80 USD approx.

Actual price may vary depending on complexity. As a rule, I hate blank backgrounds, so a colour figure without a specified complex backgound will get a FREE simple setting. But if you really want it on blank, please just say.

Eye-con commissions. Re-Opened -
C. Spriggle commission #4 - 100% paid -
Foxy Malone commission - 100% paid -
Newenglander commission - paid -
Zhon trade

=TheNeonGryphon http://TheNeonGryphon.deviantart.com/journal/18750362/ http://TheNeonGryphon.deviantart.com/journal/18750362/ Mon, 09 Jun 2008 14:23:09 PDT

From Wednesday 11th June I’ll be having my office/art room refurbished. Since all the computer equipment and phone cables converge here, there’s a chance my internet may be down for a few days as the carpet comes up and the hardwood floor goes down.

If the work is carried out in a smart fashion, there shouldn’t be an interruption. But men + tools + cables = potential electrical hazard, with a high risk of ineffectual bumbling. I can say this in a disparaging fashion because it’s a family effort as we try to save money. My step father has sawn through his thumb in the past. Fortunately it wasn’t entirely hacked off and was reattached. But if that’s what he does to his own thumb, then what he could do to the landline and computer doesn’t bear thinking about.

So I’ll be moving my precious computer out of this room to spare it a smashing from ungainly men wielding hammers. There likely will be an interruption in commissions since I won’t be able to set up the computer elsewhere due to very limited space.

All things going well (and speedy) I hopefully will be back before anyone knows I was gone. Assuming no-one saws through the telephone line.

Click me for a Buyer’s Guide
Eye-cons = $15 each approx.
Line art figure = $45 USD approx.
Coloured bust shots = $50 approx
One figure colour with simple colour setting = $80 USD approx.
One figure colour with complex colour background = $130 USD approx.
Additional colour figure = $80 USD approx.

Actual price may vary depending on complexity. As a rule, I hate blank backgrounds, so a colour figure without a specified complex backgound will get a FREE simple setting. But if you really want it on blank, please just say.

Eye-con commissions. Re-Opened -
C. Spriggle commission #4 - 0% paid -
Foxy Malone commission - 100% paid -
T. Baverstock commission - deposit paid -
Zhon trade

http://TheNeonGryphon.deviantart.com/journal/18662352/ Wed, 04 Jun 2008 13:05:19 PDT

My sub is going to run out in the next 3 days.

If I don't renew it before the subscription ends, am I going to lose all my CSS to oblivion? What about the uploaded prints? Has anyone got a clue? I can’t really afford to renew the sub right this second, but will that cause me a major headache later?

Anyone know? Thanks

Click me for a Buyer’s Guide
Eye-cons = $15 each approx.
Line art figure = $45 USD approx.
Coloured bust shots = $50 approx
One figure colour with simple colour setting = $80 USD approx.
One figure colour with complex colour background = $130 USD approx.
Additional colour figure = $80 USD approx.

Actual price may vary depending on complexity. As a rule, I hate blank backgrounds, so a colour figure without a specified complex backgound will get a FREE simple setting. But if you really want it on blank, please just say.

Eye-con commissions. Re-Opened -
C. Spriggle commission #4 - 0% paid -
Foxy Malone commission - 100% paid -
T. Baverstock commission - deposit paid -
Zhon trade

<... ]]> =TheNeonGryphon http://TheNeonGryphon.deviantart.com/journal/18606916/ http://TheNeonGryphon.deviantart.com/journal/18606916/ Sun, 01 Jun 2008 09:15:03 PDT

I’m raising some extra funds to buy the new guinea pig babies [link] an indoor playpen. The current hutch is proving way too small to comfortably house them all as they get bigger.

[link] - Furbid Auction with Buy-It-Now.

Thanks for looking

Click me for a Buyer’s Guide
Eye-cons = $15 each approx.
Line art figure = $45 USD approx.
Coloured bust shots = $50 approx
One figure colour with simple colour setting = $80 USD approx.
One figure colour with complex colour background = $130 USD approx.
Additional colour figure = $80 USD approx.

Actual price may vary depending on complexity. As a rule, I hate blank backgrounds, so a colour figure without a specified complex backgound will get a FREE simple setting. But if you really want it on blank, please just say.

Eye-con commissions. Re-Opened -
C. Spriggle commission #3 - 100% paid -
Newenglander commission - 100% paid -
T. Baverstock commission - deposit paid -
Zhon trade

... ]]> =TheNeonGryphon http://TheNeonGryphon.deviantart.com/journal/18489716/ http://TheNeonGryphon.deviantart.com/journal/18489716/ Sun, 25 May 2008 05:56:22 PDT

The bebbies are here!

Three in total and I am overjoyed. I woke up this morning and went through the usual routine, popped open the lid and there were three little tribbles.

Kinkajuu’s looking lively and very pleased with herself. She did a very tidy job, and the babies and cage are spotless! What a good mummy.

I’m very relived if not completely surprised. I’d have thought she had at least another week. But each baby is bright eyed, active and chatty. I couldn’t have asked for a prettier and more varied looking set of triplets.

Now it’s just a case of getting them all to adult size and finding them homes. I may well keep one if I can be 100% certain it’s a girl. Well done, Kinkajuu. You clever mommy. *love crush*

Click me for a Buyer’s Guide
Eye-cons = $15 each approx.
Line art figure = $45 USD approx.
Coloured bust shots = $50 approx
One figure colour with simple colour setting = $80 USD approx.
One figure colour with complex colour background = $130 USD approx.
Additional colour figure = $80 USD approx.

Actual price may vary depending on complexity. As a rule, I hate blank backgrounds, so a colour figure without a specified complex backgound will get a FREE simple setting. But if you really want it on blank, please just say.

Eye-con commissions. Re-Opened -
C. Spriggle commission #3 - 100% paid -
Newenglander commission - 100% paid -
T. Baverstock commission - 100% paid -
Zhon trade

... ]]> =TheNeonGryphon http://TheNeonGryphon.deviantart.com/journal/18416016/ http://TheNeonGryphon.deviantart.com/journal/18416016/ Tue, 20 May 2008 13:55:51 PDT

Kinkajuu is pregnant!



I’m really not happy about this at all. I don’t want my girl at risk giving birth. She’s only young herself. Obviously she would have been pregnant when I got her from the pet shop, but it didn’t show. It's only today we confirmed our suspicions when one baby started kicking inside her. I near dropped her in shock. 


I contacted PetsAtHome this morning and spoke to the manager, his response was “bring her back and we’ll swap her for another guinea pig.”

Who do they think they are? That kind of response is not acceptable. She’s not a broken bike or expired ham. Naturally I declined and asked them the important question: will they be paying the vet bills for any complications?

“That depends on the circumstances.”
“She’s PREGANANT. What circumstances are you expecting? Babies will be coming out! It’s not negotiable!”
“Vet bills need to be prior arranged with us.”
“Look, I don’t know if the birth will go to plan. It’s nature, and I won’t put off a vet visit if I’m concerned. You should be apologising and prepared to pay these bills.”
“We don’t guarantee the sex of any pets.”
“Nice. Because I asked for a female. But not a pregnant one! So you’ll pay for her to have a vet check and anything else if it goes wrong.”
“That depends on the circumstances.”

This conversation went in circles for a while, but if I am billed for complications, then they damn well will be paying for them. And if any babies do survive, then they should be buying them off me if I can’t find them good homes myself (I bet they make a lot of money out of “dumps” from unwanted babies).

And when I pointed out they were obviously not checking the sex of the guinea pigs properly, they denied it. Because Kinkajuu is the Virgin Mary of all cavies.

Right now I’m most concerned of a worst-case scenario as Kinkajuu could well die in labour or soon after. And then there’s the fear of inbred babies. After all, I don’t know who was the bore.
*fret fret fret*
She must be at least 5 weeks in, so babies may be here within 2-3 weeks, if not sooner. I've not done this before, so any personal tips would help D=

Click me for a Buyer’s Guide
Eye-cons = $15 each approx.
Line art figure = $45 USD approx.
Coloured bust shots = $50 approx
One figure colour with simple colour setting = $80 USD approx.
One figure colour with complex colour background = $130 USD approx.
Additional colour figure = $80 USD approx.

Actual price may vary depending on complexity. As a rule, I hate blank backgrounds, so a colour figure without a specified complex backgound will get a FREE simple setting. But if you really want it on blank, please just say.

Eye-con commissions. Re-Opened -
C. Spriggle commission #3 - 100% paid -
Newenglander commission - 100% paid - http://TheNeonGryphon.deviantart.com/journal/18273606/ Sun, 11 May 2008 12:57:11 PDT

I'm selling my hand-made dragon head pendant. Will paint it to the buyer's colour specification. Please click the thumbnail below for full details.



Thanks for looking.

Click me for a Buyer’s Guide
Eye-cons = $15 each approx.
Line art figure = $45 USD approx.
Coloured bust shots = $50 approx
One figure colour with simple colour setting = $80 USD approx.
One figure colour with complex colour background = $130 USD approx.
Additional colour figure = $80 USD approx.

Actual price may vary depending on complexity. As a rule, I hate blank backgrounds, so a colour figure without a specified complex backgound will get a FREE simple setting. But if you really want it on blank, please just say.

Eye-con commissions. Re-Opened -
C. Spriggle commission #3 - 100% paid -
Newenglander commission - 100% paid -
T. Baverstock commission - 100% paid -
Zhon trade

... ]]> =TheNeonGryphon http://TheNeonGryphon.deviantart.com/journal/18244236/ http://TheNeonGryphon.deviantart.com/journal/18244236/ Fri, 09 May 2008 15:32:10 PDT

The winner of the 23,456 kiriban was *Linkaton-Furaito

The prize:




Thanks everyone for joining in. Sorry to those who only just missed it. There’ll be another EyeCon kiriban soon.

But if you can't wait that yet-to-be-disclosed length of time, let me pimp one out to you. Please go here for details:

[link]

Click me for a Buyer’s Guide
Eye-cons = $15 each approx.
Line art figure = $45 USD approx.
Coloured bust shots = $50 approx
One figure colour with simple colour setting = $80 USD approx.
One figure colour with complex colour background = $130 USD approx.
Additional colour figure = $80 USD approx.

Actual price may vary depending on complexity. As a rule, I hate blank backgrounds, so a colour figure without a specified complex backgound will get a FREE simple setting. But if you really want it on blank, please just say.

Eye-con commissions. Re-Opened -
C. Spriggle commission #2 - 100% paid -
Newenglander commission - 100% paid -
T. Baverstock commission - 100% paid -
Zhon trade

=TheNeonGryphon http://TheNeonGryphon.deviantart.com/journal/18039654/ http://TheNeonGryphon.deviantart.com/journal/18039654/ Tue, 06 May 2008 13:24:24 PDT

Just under 200 views to go:



You can post your screen cap here, note me or email NeonGryphon@hotmail.co.uk. I'll be giving the prize to the first person to send a genuine screen cap. Please no fakes because I will name and shame cheaters!


Okami contest: congrats to the winners! [link]

I saw somuchbitchin' on the announcement page about the prize pics breaking the rules. I was one of the people who saw the GM's follow-up journal that clarified them (I admit I was also a little muddled at first). Was anyone else confused by the official post? Personally I'm just glad no ripped art won. Because bejesus, was there a lot :/ Not that I don't enjoy the interwebs drama and bad-sport losers kicking off.

But the real issue here is who will invite me over to play their Wii?

Click me for a Buyer’s Guide
Eye-cons = $15 each approx.
Line art figure = $45 USD approx.
Coloured bust shots = $50 approx
One figure colour with simple colour setting = $80 USD approx.
One figure colour with complex colour background = $130 USD approx.
Additional colour figure = $80 USD approx.

Actual price may vary depending on complexity. As a rule, I hate blank backgrounds, so a colour figure without a specified complex backgound will get a FREE simple setting. But if you really want it on blank, please just say.

Eye-con commissions. Re-Opened -
C. Spriggle commission #2 - 100% paid -
Newenglander commission - 100% paid -
T. Baverstock commission - 100% paid -
Zhon trade

http://TheNeonGryphon.deviantart.com/journal/17979129/ Tue, 22 Apr 2008 16:19:34 PDT

And Happy Birthday to me \O/

Click me for a Buyer’s Guide
Eye-cons = $15 each approx.
Line art figure = $45 USD approx.
Coloured bust shots = $50 approx
One figure colour with simple colour setting = $80 USD approx.
One figure colour with complex colour background = $130 USD approx.
Additional colour figure = $80 USD approx.

Actual price may vary depending on complexity. As a rule, I hate blank backgrounds, so a colour figure without a specified complex backgound will get a FREE simple setting. But if you really want it on blank, please just say.

Eye-con commissions. Re-Opened -
C. Spriggle commission - 100% paid -
Newenglander commission - 100% paid -
Ulario commission – 100% paid
K. Moore commission - 100% paid
Eventide gift art
Zhon trade

=TheNeonGryphon http://TheNeonGryphon.deviantart.com/journal/17845622/ http://TheNeonGryphon.deviantart.com/journal/17845622/ Mon, 14 Apr 2008 09:25:23 PDT

The Problem
I just today had someone show me a suspect stolen picture being re-posted over at another gallery, but they could not for the life of them remember the original owner. They had done an extensive internet search with no matches.

The watermark/copyright text had been deftly chopped out, and with no proof that the person posting was not the owner themselves, what could be done?

The Solution
I don’t know how many people know of ‘file info’ in PhotoShop, but it doesn’t seem to be many. Fortunately the creator did, and by opening PShop I could go in and read in black and white the picture title, creation date, the author and copyright holder. Mystery solved. All I had to do then was drop them a line and point out the place where their art was being abused. As an Elfwood mod this is also the most useful tool when I suspect art does not belong to the person claiming it. Sadly, I almost always find the File Info to be empty!

*** To use this feature, open PhotoShop. Go to File-> file info (alt+shift+crtl+I) ***

If you don’t have PShop and want to read file Info, you can drag and drop the image into NotePad and read the info from there. I’ve noticed this also works with other rendering programmes where someone would have used a form of digital signature.

This information can be removed or edited, but unless a thief has knowledge of it - or the suitable programme - it’s not always easy to do so. Quite a few thieves seem to know snot all about PhotoShop or similar applications, and this is just a little something extra you can do so people can find out who painted this most wonderful eye-candy they’re admiring.

I place all my contact details and my copyright disclaimer in the File Info. I really encourage you to use it as well if you aren’t already.

If you don't use PShop, I'd be interested to hear if you use a similar feature

Click me for a Buyer’s Guide
Eye-cons = $15 each approx.
Line art figure = $45 USD approx.
Coloured bust shots = $50 approx
One figure colour with simple colour setting = $80 USD approx.
One figure colour with complex colour background = $130 USD approx.
Additional colour figure = $80 USD approx.

Actual price may vary depending on complexity. As a rule, I hate blank backgrounds, so a colour figure without a specified complex backgound will get a FREE simple setting. But if you really want it on blank, please just say.

Eye-con commissions. Re-Opened -
C. Spriggle commission - 100% paid -
Newenglander commission - 100% paid -
Ulario commission – 100% paid http://TheNeonGryphon.deviantart.com/journal/17717260/ Sun, 06 Apr 2008 14:30:36 PDT

Can you see him now?

[link]

Kai correctly spotted by *ankewehner and *kalamu

If you didn't get your answer in on time, there is still the 23,456 kiriban to be caught. See details below and good luck!





You can leave a note, comment or email, but there can be only one winner. First authentic screen cap wins.

Click me for a Buyer’s Guide
Eye-cons = $15 each approx.
Line art figure = $45 USD approx.
Coloured bust shots = $50 approx
One figure colour with simple colour setting = $80 USD approx.
One figure colour with complex colour background = $130 USD approx.
Additional colour figure = $80 USD approx.

Actual price may vary depending on complexity. As a rule, I hate blank backgrounds, so a colour figure without a specified complex backgound will get a FREE simple setting. But if you really want it on blank, please just say.

Eye-con commissions. Re-Opened -
C. Spriggle commission - 50% paid -
Newenglander commission - 100% paid -
Ulario commission – 100% paid
K. Moore commission - 100% paid
Eventide gift art
Zhon trade

http://TheNeonGryphon.deviantart.com/journal/17711057/ Sun, 06 Apr 2008 07:31:38 PDT

It's snowing for the first time in almost 20 years. And in April. I am awsomesauced.

To mark the strange occassion, I will give a ** real art prize ** to the first person that can red line me the Dog Kai in this photo. I swear he is really in there. Just ONE GUESS EACH, guys! So make it a good one.

!! EDIT: ~ankewehner and *kalamu win it !!

[link]


And if you don't know what it is you're looking for: [link]


Moar WTF snow photos, I haz dem.

Sorry, Tulips:
[link]

That's not normal XD
[link]

[link]

[link]

Of course, some remain oblivious:
[link]
Kjrn ^

Click me for a Buyer’s Guide
Eye-cons = $15 each approx.
Line art figure = $45 USD approx.
Coloured bust shots = $50 approx
One figure colour with simple colour setting = $80 USD approx.
One figure colour with complex colour background = $130 USD approx.
Additional colour figure = $80 USD approx.

Actual price may vary depending on complexity. As a rule, I hate blank backgrounds, so a colour figure without a specified complex backgound will get a FREE simple setting. But if you really want it on blank, please just say.

Eye-con commissions. Re-Opened -
C. Spriggle commission - 50% paid -
Newenglander commission - 100% paid -
Ulario commission – 100% paid
K. Moore commission - 100% paid
Eventide gift art
Zhon trade

... ]]> =TheNeonGryphon http://TheNeonGryphon.deviantart.com/journal/17633461/ http://TheNeonGryphon.deviantart.com/journal/17633461/ Tue, 01 Apr 2008 13:30:40 PDT

Kupo didn’t win his battle, though I know he tried really hard. I lost him in the early hours of this morning. I kept him warm under my blankets with the heater on and sat with him until he was gone. Even when you know they are about to go, it’s still this shock when they do. He had his second vet visit, antiobiotics at home, and I tried pipette feeding him. But in the end he was just too tiny.

I will probably always blame myself for this, because Kupo had health issues that concerned me all through his life. If I could have done more for him back then or acted further on those niggling worries when I thought he wasn’t getting big enough. The vet said congenital problems, they said he wasn’t underweight, just tiny. But I know really, there is always something more that could have been done. I suspect his teeth played a part, which is something none of the vets ever checked, and nor did I until the last day. I will be watching Kjrn and Kero with great paranoia from now on, I know.

But he was such a bright active spark right up until the last days. These little guys rarely give much away until they’re just too ill. I will miss you so much, Kupo.

And the fool that said ‘hamsters only exist to teach kids about death.’ Let’s hope you’re never a pet owner since you can't understand how important their lives are. If you are able to give an animal a happy, comfortable home, it’s your responsibility to do that. I will always make room in my life for them for as long as I can.

Thank you everyone who donated to Kupo’s battle. I really would like each person that contributed to pick themselves prints from my gallery. Please let me know what ones you would like and drop me your address in email. I would very much like to do this for you.

Click me for a Buyer’s Guide
Eye-cons = $15 each approx.
Line art figure = $45 USD approx.
Coloured bust shots = $50 approx
One figure colour with simple colour setting = $80 USD approx.
One figure colour with complex colour background = $130 USD approx.
Additional colour figure = $80 USD approx.

Actual price may vary depending on complexity. As a rule, I hate blank backgrounds, so a colour figure without a specified complex backgound will get a FREE simple setting. But if you really want it on blank, please just say.

Eye-con commissions. Re-Opened -
C. Spriggle commission - 50% paid -
Newenglander commission - 100% paid -
Ulario commission – 100% paid
K. Moore commission - 100% paid =TheNeonGryphon http://TheNeonGryphon.deviantart.com/journal/17583738/ http://TheNeonGryphon.deviantart.com/journal/17583738/ Sun, 30 Mar 2008 04:20:23 PDT

Hamster Kupo is not well with pneumonia. I could hear this wet clicking noise in his cage last night and wondered why he wasn’t out on his wheel for his daily 10k super-charged marathon. So I opened up his nest and he was soaking wet on his face, neck, belly and feet, digging about in a circle with one eye glued shut.

I got 4 hours sleep I’m so worried about him, and took him to the emergency vet first thing this morning. I don’t care that it’s expensive because I want to give him a fighting chance. The vet weighed him at just 23grams, then gave him a shot of antibiotics. The needle was huge compared to poor Kupo, and I was really fighting back the tears when she stuck him with it. And he bit me as it went in just to let me know how much it hurt, and wouldn’t let go. And I didn’t care at all because he’s got it so much worse. And the vet made more of a fuss over my stupid finger than my hammychan.

How can I be upset over a hamster? Because I am and he’s my buddy and I love him. And I blame myself because I think I could or should have spotted something wrong sooner. He’s always been tiny and underweight, and the vet said it was probably something congenital and she didn’t have much hope as he’s got so little reserves to fall back on.

But I really don’t care because he’s got to be given every chance; He’s not even a year old. I’ve separated him from Kjrn and Kero and popped him near a little heater with some baby food and water. But he’s not taking any of it yet.

I’m not letting up without a fight and am going to put every penny I have into giving him a fair go.

If anyone would like a print of anything in my gallery, please note or email me with the title. I am going to sell them cheap for 11.5 x 8 inch $7 incs shipping. Or if you can spare a dollar I would be really very grateful. My paypal is NeonGryphon@hotmail.co.uk [link]

And if anyone knows of ways I can make him more comfortable, I’m listening to all and any advice. This might be the end of him but I am not going to let go so easily.

Click me for a Buyer’s Guide
Eye-cons = $15 each approx.
Line art figure = $45 USD approx.
Coloured bust shots = $50 approx
One figure colour with simple colour setting = $80 USD approx.
One figure colour with complex colour background = $130 USD approx.
Additional colour figure = $80 USD approx.

Actual price may vary depending on complexity. As a rule, I hate blank backgrounds, so a colour figure without a specified complex backgound will get a FREE simple setting. But if you really want it on blank, please just say.

Eye-con commissions. Re-Opened -
C. Spriggle commission - 50% paid -
Newenglander commission - 100% paid -
Ul... ]]> =TheNeonGryphon http://TheNeonGryphon.deviantart.com/journal/17267017/ http://TheNeonGryphon.deviantart.com/journal/17267017/ Mon, 10 Mar 2008 07:08:05 PDT

You can leave a note, comment or email, but there can be only one winner. First authentic screen cap wins. Good luck!

Click me for a Buyer’s Guide
Eye-cons = $15 each approx.
Line art figure = $45 USD approx.
Coloured bust shots = $50 approx
One figure colour = $80 USD approx.
One figure colour with background = $130 USD approx.
Additional colour figure = $80 USD approx.

Actual price may vary depending on complexity.

Eye-con commissions. Re-Opened -
Asiri commission - 100% paid -
Newenglander commission - 100% paid -
Ulario commission – 100% paid
K. Moore commission - 100% paid
Eventide gift art
Zhon trade

=TheNeonGryphon