deviantART: by:travsthebean

deviantART: by:travsthebean http://search.deviantart.com/?q=by:travsthebean&section=today deviantART RSS for by:travsthebean en-us Copyright 2009, deviantART.com Sun, 29 Nov 2009 01:49:22 PST deviantART.com http://blogs.law.harvard.edu/tech/rss http://s.deviantart.com/minish/widgets/apple-touch-icon-precomposed.png Middle Earth sketch request you suggest i sketch http://travsthebean.deviantart.com/journal/28539016/ http://travsthebean.deviantart.com/journal/28539016/ Thu, 26 Nov 2009 10:31:58 PST I'm a sketching your middle earth suggestions-

Ok I am in a mood

which is good I guess. Now I am a huge fan of tolkiens work and though I have sketched very little from his grand universe.

So here is the deal- You guys get to choose characters from Tolkiens universe and I'll sketch em out and dedicated them to you if you want to buy the original inks that will be $25, but there is no pressure . It can be from any of his works and not just limited to LOTR and the Hobbit. There are a few other books about middle-earth with some fantastic stories. It has to be a character though and can't be a variation.

I think it will give me something else to play with, as I finish up issue 3 of my own world.

Anyways they need to be unique characters from books. They will be drawn though in my style and will be based more off the books than the flicks. So lets have some fun shall we?

update 6 done - 15 penciled and ready to be inked. Also if you want the inks of your work it' $25 for the original inks. Just send me a note and we can work out the details (i'll even throw in a free comic of the bean, i also have not closed the requests- when i get tired i will

If this goes well I might do more inbetween issues as I do the text.

Thanks again for all the support.
Travis

Come read my story about a dishwasher at

and visit my worlds.

I'll post all the suggestions here... and link the sketches and you never know I might get really inspired and do a scene...

Ok lets start the list
1.

....

LOTR
2.

....

LOTR
3.

...

LOTR
4.

...

Hobbit
5.

...

LOTR
6.

...

LOTR
7.

... =travsthebean throwing in the towel.... http://travsthebean.deviantart.com/journal/28272382/ http://travsthebean.deviantart.com/journal/28272382/ Tue, 10 Nov 2009 15:22:00 PST throwing in the towel
This is about webcomics

A lot of incredible stories and concepts never make it pass the thought process. Those that do, especially webcomics do not make it pass 100 pages, before the towel is thrown in. Why?

Well part of it is the inability to stick it out. I have come close to throwing in the towel, close to giving up on my story as I have watched things collapse at times. I felt the frustration of being forgotten in the web, or the struggle of trying to find readership and I know I am not alone.

Or...

We start too many other projects and then nothing gets done because we are trying to do too much (guilty of that).

Or....

we focus way too much on the world building and not enough on the story. A little note (worlds will build themselves).

Or....

you can come up with your own reason....

Yet, for whatever reason, we choose, or a multiple selection of these, it comes down to our inability to see it through, we loose faith in our dream and in doing so tend to kill or squash the creativity that seems to flow in us.

So how do we over come this? How do you keep going?
I am amazed on how some web comics continue. Poor art, lack of story and at times a very cocky attitude. Yet I know they understand one thing and that is the value of work, and pushing ever forward. Some of these strips have over 500+ strips and huge followings. I am very impressed with the work ethic, they dedicate everything they can to their vision. So how can we apply this to ours?

just tell your story.
Don't worry about the world your characters roam in. Let the world develop with the story. If you focus too much on the world, fauna, flora, animals, etc... your story will just be another project on the shelf. Some really incredible tales have been lost because the creator was so obsessed with world building. I have found that letting the world work itself out has really enhanced the story in the long run.

Stick to one project.
Too many times, we have other ideas come into our heads and we think, "wow I need to develop this idea as well." Well, hold on cowboy.... write the idea down, but put it away. If you are committed to an epic, than that is where your focus needs to be. I am not saying to push these ideas out, I am telling you to finish your project before you start another.

"How bad do you want it?"
My favorite quote- how bad do you want to see your story come together and what are you willing to do to make it happen. DO NOT TELL ME HOW BAD YOU WANT IT! SHOW ME! For instance, I must draw 5 to 10 pages a week on the bean. I have deadlines set up for each book and so I make sure that time is given to the project. This means I do not play many video games, I do not watch a lot of tv, I do not go to a lot of parties. I do though focus on my family and other art commitments, but I stay up late at times to finish a page. Which brings me to my next point...

honor you commitments to your fans
Once you start a schedule on updates and publishing- honor that commitment. DO NOT BE LATE. Early is ok but never be late. If you are late, than you run the risk of loosing interest... or changing your format. My biggest mistake years ago was changing the bean's format I had created years ago for the web. Long before comics and books, Bean was a webcomic vibrant and alive. I blew it when I changed the format. What you see now is what the webcomic was and should have been. I have learned my lesson and now I have to recapture all the fans that i had lost. I will not do that again, you see I am showing you how bad I want it.

be patient
Rome was not built in a day, nor will your comic be successful overnight. You got to weather it out and if you are persistent, and do not give up it will work out to your favor. Patience though is a gift that is earned and learned. So be prepared for a lot of long nights.

you can do it
honestly it is how bad do you want it. You can do it if you are willing to put the effort and time into it. It is hard to stay focused, and there are times when one can get really frustrated, yet that is the time you really have to push yourself to make it happen. Stay up that extra hour, put in that extra bit of love and keep that schedule and you will make it happen. Once you get it up then we can chat about marketing it... but lets start with finishing the idea first and seeing where it goes.

Just keep at it and do not throw in the towel-
travis

to see my story visit [link] or you can visit

http://travsthebean.deviantart.com/journal/28150718/ Wed, 04 Nov 2009 19:58:35 PST
This is from the article- I did not write this....
Founder of San Diego Comic-Con dies at 76

SAN DIEGO Â Sheldon Dorf, who founded the world famous Comic-Con International comic book convention, has died. He was 76.

A longtime friend, Greg Koudoulian, says the Ocean Beach resident died at a San Diego hospital on Tuesday from kidney failure. He had diabetes and had been hospitalized for about a year.

Dorf, a freelance artist and comic strip letterer, founded Comic-Con in San Diego in 1970 after moving from Detroit.

Today, the convention draws 125,000 fans a year and is a major gathering for comic book fans, artists, writers and movie stars.

Koudoulian says Dorf was friends with comic greats such as Marvel artist Jack Kirby and "Peanuts" creator Charles Schulz. He says Dorf was also instrumental in helping budding artists find audiences.

]]> =travsthebean new page update http://travsthebean.deviantart.com/journal/27968223/ http://travsthebean.deviantart.com/journal/27968223/ Sun, 25 Oct 2009 20:32:24 PDT

New page update- plus a bunch more if you are following
enjoy-

trav

]]> =travsthebean Watching a soul slowly slip to the otherside..... http://travsthebean.deviantart.com/journal/27727078/ http://travsthebean.deviantart.com/journal/27727078/ Mon, 12 Oct 2009 13:56:05 PDT
My grandfather has lived a good life. He is a talented trumpet player, a faithful husband and kind man devoted to keeping all his family happy. He has reached though the twilight of his life. Time is moving on as his journey in this mortal realm comes slowly to an end. Soon, I know he will rejoin loved ones that have gone on before, embarking on a new journey, that none of us here on earth can truly understand until, we too are called willingly or not, to move on.

So what does that leave for me? What do I choose to remember? How have I chosen to craft that relationship with the man that help start the family that I claim to be a part of? It is a moment of reflection for me and deep thought. One that has been filled with ups and with downs, yet still as I wander the memories I have, I find a sense of wonder and enjoyment. A warm smile and deep tenor voice, that always radiated a sense of affection and love.

"Who's that knocking on my door?" Always poured through the hallways of their home as my siblings and I knocked on their door, for sunday afternoon dinners. His love for music, his love of his faith and his desire that all his family be happy, give me a deep appreciation for what I have been blessed with.

To know him, is to love him. I watched his eyes light up as he talked to my own children. His tale to my son on how he got his first trumpet and the joy in his face as my son played a simple tune for him. He tapped along full of life, even though he seemed very tired at the moment. He was happy.

He never complained to me about his ills, even as time pushes forward, and he moves at a slower pace, he still when we talk asks me how i am doing.

So as his time draws to a close, I do not mourn and I rejoice for him. His life is good, he accomplished things that I am proud of. He believed in us... and lives what he preaches, hoping his children and their children will do the same. I am glad that I was able to take my family to spend a little time with him, to let them hear, those incredible words,"who's that knocking on my door."

I am grateful for the power of music, and I find myself constantly singing to my own children around me.

So as time pushes forward at it's rapid pace, I hope that I use my earthly time wisely. I pray that I take the time to learn and teach my children to practice what they preach. To help others and fill their lives with a song, and an open mind towards one another, and the opportunity to love. I hope that one day they will look at me as well with fond memories, and think of me with a smile.

I do not know when the patriarch of my family, will start his new journey, yet before he goes, he will know that I love him and I appreciate him and all that he does, no matter how small it might seem to him.

Do not waste the time given to you. Mend the fences that need to be mended and create the legacy that your children and your grand children will remember proudly of you. You do not have all the time in the world and one day it will be gone.....

live life wisely
trav

]]> =travsthebean Ape issue 2 and other tidbits...... http://travsthebean.deviantart.com/journal/27721454/ http://travsthebean.deviantart.com/journal/27721454/ Mon, 12 Oct 2009 08:20:02 PDT APE INFO

We are on the list Table 465. And APE is this weekend- so if you are in the BAY area stop by- gonna be a lot of cool people up there....
FREE SKETCHES AS USUAL
There will be plenty of FREE Sketching at APE as well this year, so if you want a FREE sketch stop by the table. Buy a comic (well if you buy one anyways from www.beanleafpress.com) I will put a special sketch in the inside cover just for you.

Looking Forward to seeing a bunch of DA'ers there.

Exciting NEWS on ISSUE 2

Issue 2 is here and selling- It is moving very well. so pick up a couple at [link] I'll give you a free sketch in each issue you buy.

Almost 50 pages of webcomic

Ok the new page is up and i hope you are reading- I would love to hear your thoughts. Can you believe it almost 50 pages- well 50 pages on thursday- with a possible bonus to celebrate-

TRAV

Also there is a comic update at

new page, new journal fun on the bean and new poll

thanks again
trav

]]> =travsthebean Bonus PAGE and FREE Sketches http://travsthebean.deviantart.com/journal/27395598/ http://travsthebean.deviantart.com/journal/27395598/ Thu, 08 Oct 2009 15:21:44 PDT Special Bonus Page

Here is a special page in celebration of issue 2 releasing today! you can pick up issue 2 and issue 1 here(www.beanleafpress.com) and I will put a free sketch on the inside cover of every issue bought through bean leaf press. (www.beanleafpress.com)

new bean page

Also issue 2 is on my desk - big journal on that in a bit- should go on sale tonight

Also issue 2 should be in my hands on tuesday

New Bean page up

Surprise Page because issue 2 went to press!

Hey we just got a call from the people that run the APE con and they found a table for us. We are really jazzed because that gives us another show for the winter and we are really looking for some more westcoast shows to do in the winter.

So we are not named on the list, but we have a table space and our table # is Table 465. We are on the lower level of the hall and near some stairs.

Exciting NEWS on ISSUE 2
We will be debuting Issue 2 at APE this year. I am really jazzed about that, so if you are up in the Bay area stop by and pic up issue 2 from us. I am really jazzed about that as well.

FREE SKETCHES AS USUAL
There will be plenty of FREE Sketching at APE as well this year, so if you want a FREE sketch stop by the table. Buy a comic (well if you buy one anyways from www.beanleafpress.com) I will put a special sketch in the inside cover just for you.

Looking Forward to seeing a bunch of DA'ers there.

Also there is a comic update at

new page, new journal fun on the bean and new poll

thanks again
trav

]]> =travsthebean afternoon update http://travsthebean.deviantart.com/journal/27358910/ http://travsthebean.deviantart.com/journal/27358910/ Tue, 22 Sep 2009 14:57:28 PDT

as promised here is the afternoon update

Ok here is a double hitter today - gonna add 2 new pages for everyone- one this morning

and the other later in the afternoon- enjoy the tale.

Ok it is all moved over and i posted a new page up as well, I think this will work out the best for everyone- - here is the new page

Enjoy
trav

]]> =travsthebean new deviant home for the bean webcomic http://travsthebean.deviantart.com/journal/27337558/ http://travsthebean.deviantart.com/journal/27337558/ Mon, 21 Sep 2009 12:14:27 PDT

yes it is I and I figured the best way to make things easier for everyone is to place the webcomic here in a new section. This will be devoted entirely to the bean. I think it will clean up my other gallery nicely and allow me to keep everything the bean entails here.

I will be updating the page in the next few days including the update which is due today yet you can read it on panelflow.

I have not opted for the premium account- since I can only afford 1 right now it will be my other account. Yet if you want to donate one for the bean comic, I will not hold you back and would greatly appreciate it.

thanks again
trav

]]> =travsthebean slideshow issue on my da http://travsthebean.deviantart.com/journal/27278884/ http://travsthebean.deviantart.com/journal/27278884/ Fri, 18 Sep 2009 11:28:49 PDT

trav

]]> =travsthebean Mission Viejo Book Fair! Sat Sept 12 http://travsthebean.deviantart.com/journal/27156976/ http://travsthebean.deviantart.com/journal/27156976/ Fri, 11 Sep 2009 18:56:04 PDT [link] I will be signing and giving away a FREE SKETCH to anyone that asks for one.

]]> =travsthebean Twitter? is it worth it? http://travsthebean.deviantart.com/journal/27017812/ http://travsthebean.deviantart.com/journal/27017812/ Fri, 04 Sep 2009 15:23:29 PDT Honestly I do not know

Signed up on twitter- I do facebook as well, since we live in a techno society and people do want to know what each other is up to, I think. So here i am - look for travsthebean I guess on twitter (though is twitter really worth it?) or just travis hanson on facebook and say hi. I still post though most of my art and such here and on panelflow.com.

Also issue 2 news on the way

Anyways that's all for the moment- trav

New Items Online at [link] beanleafpress.com

A new comic about bean. Issue one is out and on sale today!
Issue 1, 40 pages, b/w comic price $4.75
(I will do a special sketch on the inside cover for anyone that wants one.)

The story moves on panel flow-(a great place to host comics)
you can check out the comic updates here [link]
also if you want to read the novels you can get them here [link]

]]> =travsthebean My moment with Charles Vess http://travsthebean.deviantart.com/journal/26590539/ http://travsthebean.deviantart.com/journal/26590539/ Fri, 14 Aug 2009 13:30:50 PDT My moment with Charles Vess and other things that inspire me

The Last few years I have had many opportunities to meet my heroes. I have been the one to seek them out and offer my thanks for inspiring me over the years. There have been some nice friendships because of this and each meeting holds a special place in my heart.

There have also been moments, where I have had an idol that inspires me, finds me by accident. That was the case with Charles Vess [link] In my meeting with Charles Vess, I found out that there are artist and creators out there, that are the most humblest people I have ever met. Charles Vess is one of those. He took a moment to thumb through my art pieces and look through my comic. He asked questions on what my goals and futures were and why I do things the way I do. There was no contempt in him at all, just pure sincerity. I was very touched as we laughed a little and found that our views on life and art seem similar. He was genuine and polite and for those 20 minutes I felt like I was truly on the right track. We shook hands and parted, each giving the other a little bit of art, and him giving my and incredible amount of inspiration to keep going forward.

So as I sit and work through each page and art piece, I keep a small promo piece of Charles Vess work on my desk. As well as a few other pieces from other illustrators. I keep them there though to inspire, to push my forward, to find my own style and to never give up.

My meeting with Charles Vess, reinforced my belief that everyone has something to offer. I also came to some realizations that it is not about money or fame, (though money helps keeping the books published and food on the table) it is about creating, creating in your style and not being a carbon copy of everyone else.

It is drawing at all hours of the day, and being willing to give things up to make your dreams come true. I look at Charles Vess, William Stout &
Stan Sakai, three incredible people who tell stories they way they want to and not how the world tells them too. They tell them with their art and so I thank them and I remember them as I struggle at times with my hopes and dreams, remembering that others struggle as I and still find ways to make things happen.

Keep your dreams alive, treat people well and sincerely and when you struggle find those that inspire you to keep yourself going.

trav

New Items Online at [link] beanleafpress.com

A new comic about bean. Issue one is out and on sale today!
Issue 1, 40 pages, b/w comic price $4.75
(I will do a special sketch on the inside cover for anyone that wants one.)

And the new print-
18x24 $20

San Diego Comic Con, Free sketches, New prints and a New Comic
I am amazed on how fast the year goes by. It is that time again, 5 days of incredible comic goodness and entertainment. We will be there as always Table E11, Same spot as last year, I believe. As tradition continues I will be offering free Sketches to anyone that shows up and asks. We did 950 last year.

New Items to offer.

A new comic about bean. Issue one comes out.
Issue 1, 40 pages, b/w comic price $4.75
(I will do a special sketch on the inside cover for anyone that wants one.)

And the new print-
18x24 $20

Both these items will be debut at SDCC and both will be online the minute they come in.

Looking forward to seeing so many great deviants at Comic Con.

The story moves on panel flow-(a great place to host comics)
you can check out the comic updates here [link]
also if you want to read the novels you can get them here [link]

]]> =travsthebean Who am I? 15 questions or more.... up to you http://travsthebean.deviantart.com/journal/25513161/ http://travsthebean.deviantart.com/journal/25513161/ Wed, 24 Jun 2009 21:37:25 PDT 15 questions or more about me
Ok breaking from the norm of filling out a pre-made form of pure randomness, I felt that it would be more fun to let you ask the questions about me or what i think, or how i do things.

I'll post your questions and the answers here. Here are the first set- I'll do as many as you wants-

1. How did you hurt your back and how's the recovery going?
I have no idea- I think it was from sitting way to much and not exercising like I used to, which caused the muscles around my lower spine to become weak, letting the disc slip. As for how I am doing? well I have good days and bad days, I am still figuring it all out though, and the bad days seem less and less.

2. How come you are so insanely fast? or more accurately, how many hours a day do you devote to work and how long does it take you to do an illustration and a Broken Moon page?
lots and lots of practice, my first job was a cartoonist for a print shop, and we had to produce an insane amount of work, the lead illustrator there help me perfect things a little. As for illustrating bean, a page (pencils and inks) about 2 and half hours on average and I average about 2 and half a day, not including the other illustration projects I have to do as well.

3. Could you post some of your pencils please? I think it is the only step of your process we haven't seen.
one day, I will

4. Your style is very whimsical yet solid, any artistic influences you can mention, or is it just the way you naturally draw?
I am influenced by others, but I had to find my own groove though, this is naturally how I draw, yet I am constantly trying to perfect it. I love a lot of the old cartoonist, like walt kelly, jeff smith, bill waterson, etc, they showed me that you could draw your own way and still be successful at story telling

What are your favorite comics to read? (Any favorites from when you were a kid?)
Elfquest, Bone, Herobear and the kid, the uncanny Xmen from the 80's, Elflord, Usagi Yojimbo, Groo and a few others

What's your favourite flavour of ice cream?
Tin roof sunday hands down

Did you ever consider any other career choice than art?
I wanted to be a professional Swing dancer

Did you ever do any work in collaboration (either art or script) and if so, could you share some experience?
I have done some collaborations in the past and in the present. Each experience is different and some work really well, if everyone has the same end goal, which is important, other times I've seen projects just fall apart because people couldn't keep up with deadline. That is the key, if you can't pull your own weight, you might want to reconsider the job.

What are your worst and your best work-related moments (if it's not too personal, of course)?
holding a finished book in your hands that you completed, yet the worst is having to move 80 boxes of the same book to another warehouse because they were not moving.

Do you have any pets? (a mandatory question I asked everyone when I was a kid XD)
I have a cat named smokey, several salt water fish in my reef tank, and my son has a hermit crab, that keeps on ticking

Have you looked around and read any webcomics done by other people too? If so, have you found any you like?
oh i read a whole bunch, Atland, Pewfill, and a few others, I though rather picky on the comics I read, and look at story and art as a main driving source I also enjoy a few comics that come from artist here as well.

In your little 411 at the bottom of your journal... it says READING: Brooks
Is that Terry Brooks? and what book?
I am reading the Shanara series by terry brooks, the orig... ]]> =travsthebean the Bean, it's happening http://travsthebean.deviantart.com/journal/25390944/ http://travsthebean.deviantart.com/journal/25390944/ Sun, 21 Jun 2009 21:19:53 PDT Reboot: the Bean going to press in 2 weeks
That is what this is. A reboot.
I have spent the last month figuring out how to salvage my dreams, which are being salvaged, and because of that salvaging some fantastic things are happening.

As many of you have noticed I returned Bean to it's original comic format. The format I had begun almost 9 years ago. I am putting it online for free, 2 pages a week and last night I put page 10 up. Today I will finishing inking and penciling 34 & 35. I am averaging between 8 to 10 pages a week in between all the other commitments I have. This is what makes it all good.

I found out yesterday that, I can send it to press in two weeks in it's current format. The book will be 40 pages, black and white, with a strong cover. The price about $4.50 a book. I have decided that the book schedule every 3 months, a new book in the series will be guaranteed and I will continue the series as an online webcomic.

I have found peace with this, and drive that has long been forgotten, I am really excited as well, as this will be all my own art, inks and all.

I have chosen not to color it as well, and will only color it when the entire series is completed.
If you enjoy the story and don't want to wait for web updates, I would recommend getting the comics or the novels, I plan to be vary far ahead very quickly.

thank you for everyone's kind words and support, it has really helped rekindle my passion for sequential story telling. Thank you and here's to one long incredible adventure.

trav

Broken Moon Updates
http://travsthebean.deviantart.com/journal/25390934/ Thu, 18 Jun 2009 09:43:12 PDT

My GalleryÂ Â Â Â Â Â My PrintsÂ Â Â Â Â Â Note MeÂ Â Â Â Â Â Watch Me

Reboot: the Bean going to press in 2 weeks
That is what this is. A reboot.
I have spent the last month figuring out how to salvage my dreams, which are being salvaged, and because of that salvaging some fantastic things are happening.

As many of you have noticed I returned Bean to it's original comic format. The format I had begun almost 9 years ago. I am putting it online for free, 2 pages a week and last night I put page 10 up. Today I will finishing inking and penciling 34 & 35. I am averaging between 8 to 10 pages a week in between all the other commitments I have. This is what makes it all good.

I found out yesterday that, I can send it to press in two weeks in it's current format. The book will be 40 pages, black and white, with a strong cover. The price about $4.50 a book. I have decided that the book schedule every 3 months, a new book in the series will be guaranteed and I will continue the series as an online webcomic.

I have found peace with this, and drive that has long been forgotten, I am really excited as well, as this will be all my own art, inks and all.

I have chosen not to color it as well, and will only color it when the entire series is completed.
If you enjoy the story and don't want to wait for web updates, I would recommend getting the comics or the novels, I plan to be vary far ahead very quickly.

thank you for everyone's kind words and support, it has really helped rekindle my passion for sequential story telling. Thank you and here's to one long incredible adventure.

trav

Broken Moon Updates

Ok it is all up to date with panel flow-
you can check out the comic updates here http://travsthebean.deviantart.com/journal/25217643/ Tue, 09 Jun 2009 13:33:36 PDT

My GalleryÂ Â Â Â Â Â My PrintsÂ Â Â Â Â Â Note MeÂ Â Â Â Â Â Watch Me

Ok - Many years ago, the sunday funnies were not just funnies, but incredible tales and adventures that happened on a weekly and daily basis. In fact most of us here, never really got to enjoy "Nemo in Slumber Land", "Tarzan", "Flash Gordon". "Terry and the Pirates", "Buck Rogers" and so many more. In fact many of these tales is why science fiction and fantasy are here today in comic form.

Yet the art of the Sunday Paper is really - just gone. Bill Watterson said once that the adventures of the sunday comic were basically dead, in so many words. He bucked the system and then finally gave up and went on to quiet solitude and has rarely been heard of since. I have wondered if he was right.

Where are the quest and tales of old, these incredible tales that pulled us along, with fantastic art and incredible writing each week? Well there are some tales still floating around, some in print, but independents are getting harder to find and some great tales on the web.

The Sunday Comic of the future, is the web comic. Unfortunately the web comic is more a labor of love than a money making machine. Plus you have to weed through a lot of the hap-hazard productions that are out there to find those rare gems that really sing. The web comic is a rough venture, constant updates, lack of feedback and many artist just throwing in the towel when they believe that their work is not worth it and that their story or strips will never be published. Hence the great lie, give up... it whispers into one's ear.

I myself have heard that call and have given up, especially when thinking that my tale is subpar and not good enough. I look back and realize if I had just kept the original comic going so many years ago, I would be done with my tale and on to a new one... yet I tried many other ventures comics, books and now finally full circle again back to comics.

So what have I noticed as I have returned to the tale I told many years ago and retold with aimee. Well, my color art is more popular than my b/w art and two, twice a week is apparently not enough to keep peoples interest, hence I see why the dailies of old were so much work, yet they got paid to do it.

So what to do with this labor of love?

Page 20 I have just finished, the art art is stronger than ever, I feel alive and not too concerned with the past only a realization of what the future can bring in an art form that I love. I know I will lose, viewers due to the lack of color, but if I colored I would never finish the tale, and so with the desire to keep the pacing strong and the story moving I will continue in b/w (one day there might be color).

Twice a week, I am not sure that is wise to keep going- it is frustrating to know people wait for a few days to get an update. If web comics are to survive - updates must be reliable and closer together, no one wants a story to go at a snail's pace. So I am debating at updating 3 times a week - mon-wed-fri. The reason is a long story like this needs to move a little quicker.... any thoughts?

Now, it is a labor of love, yet I still must eat. I would hope to those that enjoy my tale be willing to look at picking something up from my work. Books, prints whatever. I will keep the story going online- one day it will print, but I would ask for help to a degree, but not donations, I would hope something in my collection will fancy you that is all.

I finally realized that I just want to tell my story in a very unique form, and have others enjoy it and spread it around. It will not be forever though and when the books come out I will add more not seen on the site. I just love to create and I hope there are others out there with the same vision, I would hope they too push their work forward and let us see the world of sunday funny art return.

Return to where the stories can be deep and long, and the art fantastic-

trav

Broken Moon Updates
http://travsthebean.deviantart.com/journal/25188131/ Mon, 08 Jun 2009 08:44:09 PDT

My GalleryÂ Â Â Â Â Â My PrintsÂ Â Â Â Â Â Note MeÂ Â Â Â Â Â Watch Me

First the updates
Broken Moon Updates

Ok it is all up to date with panel flow-
you can check out the comic updates here [link]
also if you want to read the novels you can get them here [link]

observations

Life is short- it is meant to be enjoyed and dreams can only be achieved by hard work- and cookies taste best when directly out of the oven.

trav

]]> =travsthebean Good Morning- Broken Moon updates http://travsthebean.deviantart.com/journal/25121206/ http://travsthebean.deviantart.com/journal/25121206/ Thu, 04 Jun 2009 08:20:26 PDT

My GalleryÂ Â Â Â Â Â My PrintsÂ Â Â Â Â Â Note MeÂ Â Â Â Â Â Watch Me

Broken Moon Updates

It is another morning- yet as busy as the day is - I am feeling pretty good. I start page 17 today of the brokenmoon comic. Making 17 pages in 13 days, put that with the other projects I am working on and things are looking pretty good.

For those interested - Tales of the Broke Moon found here [link] is updating on Mondays and Thursdays. Page 5 went up this morning, it is very nice to have a routine again and strong sense of direction.

I am bummed though- the two art stores I buy my microns and tracing paper through stopped carrying them - what the heck??? I buy enough of them there to keep them in business it seems- oh well I guess I will have to just move on to somewhere else.... Anyone know of a good Micron supplier online?

Well today is really just randomness- which is at times good. Thanks for all the support.
trav

]]> =travsthebean Web comic and new software plus update. new page http://travsthebean.deviantart.com/journal/24981227/ http://travsthebean.deviantart.com/journal/24981227/ Wed, 27 May 2009 14:49:17 PDT **update***
ok I updated the web comic. I think tuesday and thursday will be fine for our up dates.

I must say I really am enjoying this new web comic software. My friend and his partner have put it together (so it was designed by comic artists) and it is really user friendly. No I am not leaving da, but i think this will be an addition, since da does not have a web comic option or format. If you are interested in using it and trying it out it is all FREE - there are some minor kinks, but for the most part it runs smooth. Anyways it will be the home of the brokenmoon.

The site is panelflow.com or just click here [link]. Anyways if you are doing a webcomic and was a place to host it that isn't complicated go here.

Now on to the broken moon story- just added a new page, enjoy, feel free to comment-

if you want to read the comic of the broken moon- go here [link] I will update it twice a week in b/w

enjoy
trav

]]> =travsthebean answers..... http://travsthebean.deviantart.com/journal/24958779/ http://travsthebean.deviantart.com/journal/24958779/ Tue, 26 May 2009 10:47:37 PDT
Thank you for the encouragement, the advice and the hope. So what are my answers....well some of them were private others are a little more public and some, well you will have to wait for.

Right now though I am at peace. Even though the novels are on permanent hold, the story is not. The audience was small enough to make a change and I find that my direction as gone full circle, with this project.

Years ago, the bean started as a web comic- it was how it was intended to be. Then it merged to a comic book and finally adapted to a written form. Yet it seems that projects and direction are destined to change. I decided the dream cannot die, because i will not let it die. I am pushing ever forward, but I am returning to my roots.

The choice I have made is to return it to a comic. It will take some reworking, but it will be an adaptation of my novels. It needs to be. There are more opportunities here than what the novels offer and I find that that is the direction I need to go in. All my connections are in comics, as well as distribution opportunities. If I ever needed an answer or direction, it has been staring me in the face for the last year and a half.

I am debating at bringing it back as a webcomic as well, I am still in talks with a few close individuals that are well known in the fantasy industry. All I do know is it is adapting and changing and I am at peace with the change. I still want the novels to come out - because i think they add to the comic and hit their own audience, and I have enjoyed working with aimee on the novels- I am just going to run limited runs on them. It is just the novels are not economical now and will have to wait til the future, while comics are a lot more feasible and a lot more sound, I can produce them rather quick.

I am taking it very seriously and we will see where this goes. I will keep more posted later.

trav

]]> =travsthebean watching dreams die.... http://travsthebean.deviantart.com/journal/24855828/ http://travsthebean.deviantart.com/journal/24855828/ Wed, 20 May 2009 12:34:29 PDT
I am talking about the Tales of the Broken Moon.

It started as a webcomic, and then moved to the world of printed comic, but lasted only 2 issues, due to a falling out, though I had 5 issues completed in pencil, it would sit on shelf and eventually be packed up. A year later, I looked at changing the story completely and pushed it into book format, illustrated novels.

After 2 books later, a bit of debt, no distribution angles, and now very little money for book 3, I am at a loss. Book 3 actually now seems to be halted, which is very frustrating since, I do not know where to go or what to do with it. It seems that no matter what I do it just seems that it was not meant to be. Which is saddening because, I know that this is a fantastic tale, I just cannot seem to make it work.

It has also affect me in other works, I cannot seem to finish other personal projects, because of the curse I have seem to have put on my self.

I know I need to finish my tale of the broken moon, I just feel very worn down, from all the half-promises and commitments I have rec'd from distributor and publisher alike. It has forced me to really reconsider if tell this story is actually worth it.

I am venting, I know that, I will get up from this, but this has been weighing down on me for some time. Since the beginning of last year when I first found out that book 3 get delayed, then delayed again and now be put in limbo. I hate telling fans of the original book, to hold out another year until I figure our IF there will be a book 3 novel. People are very gracious and understanding but it breaks my heart, knowing that the story has stopped unfinished.

Am I down, no not yet, I just cannot though see doing this alone. I understand comics and graphic novels, but books are a different tale and finding a way to make it work is quite frustrating. I just wish it would work.

I am considering going back to a comic book format, reconvert books 1 and 2 into a market I understand and hunt for someone else to publish my story. That's all that I really want. I just want to tell the tale I originally thought up so many years ago and I just cannot. If there was someone where to go I would do it, somewhere to make it happen I would. I just need to figure it out because novels are not working which sucks because I have about 2500 books to get rid off.

I will not beat an old horse to death, I just think it is time, that I finish what I started, even if it means redoing it. I am saddened that it is not working in it's present form, It bothers me that I just can seem to get a break to make it work, yet it shows me that the story is good.

My heart though has been breaking on this for over a year now, and I hate to see it die.

So maybe the brokenmoon tales should go back to comic form and just tell them how I first invisioned them. I do not know, I feel very lost at the moment, hoping for some direction...

trav

]]> =travsthebean pondering http://travsthebean.deviantart.com/journal/24720394/ http://travsthebean.deviantart.com/journal/24720394/ Tue, 12 May 2009 12:58:13 PDT
come join my adventure

]]> =travsthebean the dad.... http://travsthebean.deviantart.com/journal/24610545/ http://travsthebean.deviantart.com/journal/24610545/ Tue, 05 May 2009 22:29:15 PDT
Yet I must say, being a father has been one of the best adventures I could ever ask for, and though I find myself toiling away at my desk, pondering and scheming all the ways to keep food on the table, I really cherish those simple moments that have made my choice to be a father of five well worth it.

The simple hugs, the smiles, the eskimo and butterfly kisses. Feeling a little head burrow into your chin and the giggles, laughs and sometimes bad jokes told at the dinner table, which have caused me many a time to furrow the eyebrow and try so hard not laugh. It is the ability to still hold their hands and give kisses every time one leaves and how they through their innocence truly can confound the wise.

I enjoy them, what can I say. It has it's trials, but life is that way. Because one can not truly appreciate the laughter without the tears. The hardest thing is to let them fail at times, so they can pick themselves up and keep moving forward. Let me tell you how hard it hurts, to have to sit back and watch them struggle, but at the same time excitement we share as the find a away to succeed.

I love what they bring into my life, and sometimes I feel ungrateful as I focus on being an "adult" and not them, which honestly is where I need to focus, because one day, they might not want to give a butterfly kiss to a cranky old man.

dad-

come join my adventure

]]> =travsthebean One of life's lesson's http://travsthebean.deviantart.com/journal/24408444/ http://travsthebean.deviantart.com/journal/24408444/ Wed, 29 Apr 2009 08:17:56 PDT
After a hug, inspired by a very keen mom, we started to discuss a few truths about art. Some of the same truths that I want to pass on as well. Especially when we look at our own work and fell that it just "sucks" (I hate that word).

1st- we are all on different levels- My good boy is 11, his old man is almost 38, which means there is a huge age gap of experience. I have been illustrating professionally for 11 years now and have been drawing almost every day since I was 6, yet is was not until I was 30 that I truly appreciated my talent and felt happy with it. so lesson 1, you cannot compare your talent to someone else, especially when the age gap is so huge

2nd- I explained that I practice about 4 hours a day on my craft, and I carry sketch books everywhere I go. If my son wanted to improve, he needed to start practicing, no one has ever just picked up a pencil and bam! created a masterpiece. so lesson 2 practice

3rd- Even dad messes up. This was a surprise to him, especially when he watched me throw a piece away I was working on last night. Each piece takes time, yes I am fast with my sketches, but I take my time figuring out where everything needs to go in a final piece, sometimes it just flows, and then many times it does not. The key is to sketch it all out it and keep working it until feels right to you. so lesson 3 your 1st sketch is usually not going to be a finished piece, pieces need to be allowed to evolve

4th- Learn your craft and learn to listen, this means humble yourself so you can be taught. We have tons of books on ref in my house, and a lot of paper. My son reached a point last night, that allowed him to be taught. I used the "Wax On, Wax Off Method". What is that you might ask? Well it is repetition. The exercise last night was learning to loosen up the wrist and the hand and just draw lot's and lot's of circles. In different shapes and sizes, overlapping and figuring out when you overlap what shapes they make. I do not think he was thrilled that I made him use several sheets of paper, and will make him continue the exercise, but it teaches him to draw loose, which enables you to be fast. lesson 4 - learn to listen

There is much more to learn and talk about, but for now we start here and see where this takes us. I will not tell him what to draw, I will though if he wants show him how to draw. Everyone has potential to draw, you just need to put things in perspective. Remember that it is really what you put into it and if you are willing to put the effort, the time and listen to the advice given - you will do well.

I love my son and it hurt to see him feel like he "sucked" but it helped him grow in the process, by the end of the night, his circles, where getting smoother, as he conditioned his wrist to improve his craft. As a parent you want your children to succeed but you cannot do it for them, and I am willing to show them or anyone else, how to improve, I cannot improve them, only they can do that.

It was a good moment last night between the two of us as we sat on a old rickety couch, with two art boards, pencils and watching a pbs show on the california mudflats/hope mountain mural. I look forward to many more evenings like this and teaching him how to pull his talent out of him.

He is a good boy and by the amount of scratch paper he went through last night on his own, I think he will do just fine.....

trav

come join my adventure
=travsthebean Going on an adventure. Do you want to come? http://travsthebean.deviantart.com/journal/24168032/ http://travsthebean.deviantart.com/journal/24168032/ Wed, 22 Apr 2009 13:19:50 PDT

Well, you see I found this old map, and I decided that maybe I just needed to follow it. Little did I realize that it would lead me on an adventure, that would make me feel a little younger, a lot more creative. I am still a little sore, but that is part of the healing process and days will be better than others.

So when I found this map, I was really excited that it was a treasure map, that led to a mysterious island in the middle of nowhere. You could only imagine the energy I felt within my heart, as I poured over my old parchment, pondering the possibilities that I could find something so wonderful.

Yet, I could not do it alone and needed a boat, a hearty crew and a few friends to join me. There is no rush on this adventure, because if I was to rush it, than it would not be exciting, nor calming or relaxing. It just needs to take it's own time, by following the map, avoiding the traps, and hanging out with some good people.

The ship was easy to obtain, the crew took some convincing and now it seems I am getting ready to sail. It could be a long journey and some of us might not come back, but what is the fun of adventuring without the thrill of danger. It's byow or "bring your own weapons", but the food and drink will be supplied by and excellent chef, who's eyes are much bigger than his stomach. Plus if you work hard enough you can sleep in the hull.

So as I recover and stretch out my back, this will be my adventure....
trav

]]> =travsthebean been a long few days http://travsthebean.deviantart.com/journal/23939758/ http://travsthebean.deviantart.com/journal/23939758/ Tue, 31 Mar 2009 15:00:00 PDT It is amazing that when I am down I find that my art gets really dark, which pulls me down as well. I took a few days to work on few lighter pieces and hunt a few more paying gigs, to keep me focused. Despite the discomfort I am working which is good, and on the plus side, I am finding a light in the darkness.

I started yoga last night, and the stretches were incredible, in fact I slept much better than I have in a long while. I have appreciated all the advice and warm wishes and understanding. Yes one day at a time. The comic will happen in it's own due time, I am not going to rush and will update as I choose.

Family, work and health come first. I am looking forward to posting new art soon and finished the hope piece. Which was something i really needed to do for myself. I never realized how much of me was in that piece until it was done.

Thank you all for your understanding - and patience.... I am focused on getting better, I just need to be careful.

trav

old update below

Hey guys
I am pretty worn down and my back is starting to hurt again, so it might have been a little too premature to start a webcomic project, until i am fully healed. I still have to feed my family so i am trying conserve my energy and get back into shape- It sucks having health issues.

Be patient, I had forgotten how much work this project is, and can feel it in my back, which effects my time with family, kids and work, so i am struggling on what to do.

trav

]]> =travsthebean noname comic update info- the day has been chosen http://travsthebean.deviantart.com/journal/23759831/ http://travsthebean.deviantart.com/journal/23759831/ Tue, 24 Mar 2009 14:29:23 PDT No name comic and other fun

So the day has been chosen. It will be on Wed (maybe tuesdays, but no later than wed.) It was close but the wed won out. As for the weekenders I will do my best to make you smile and if needs be wear a goofy hat for a bit.

If you want to see the webcomic it is here

If you want to contribute funds to help keep things going, I would ask you buy one of my prints (than you get something in return... you can buy my prints here [link] the new prints are up as well.

the name game
The comic is yet unnamed and will be so for a while - I figure I would let you guys come up with suggestions as more pages go up and we can finally figure out a name for this beast. The winner will get a print.... I think that is a fair trade off.

I also want to thank everyone your support - and pushing me to do this- the more pushing the harder I work, it's really weird how that works, but I feed off your energy- so thank you for keeping me going,,,,

Health Update
I did my first set of exercises on sat, boy am I sore, yesterday I continued. It will take a bit to strengthen my lower back again, but I am determined to get better. So a little bit at a time. Doing Yoga, which is turning out to be quite fun
thanks for the support.

trav

]]> =travsthebean the experiment:) http://travsthebean.deviantart.com/journal/23744281/ http://travsthebean.deviantart.com/journal/23744281/ Tue, 17 Mar 2009 10:21:21 PDT the experiment

Ok, so I have been looking at doing a web comic. (who new). Yet this is more as an experiment for me and if it goes well than I am more than willing to continue to story.

I am working out the schedule now and setting up a few things. It is for FREE, yet I am going to make sure the quality is high in the art and writing. Many of you have said that you want to support me, I appreciate this, it will help. The more feedback the better, if I miss a date, I expect you to yell at me. I want to create accountability on both sides. Make it worthwhile for me as well with your encouragement.

When I finish page 1 I will post it. Page 2 is already up an in my gallery, so I felt obligated to get one done as soon as possible and then start updates one day next week- we'll throw a pole up to see what day will be the most popular.

If you want to support this project with cash(I will not turn you down) but I do not want donations. I have plenty of prints that you can buy here at [link] . That's the easiest way to support my art if you so choose, there is no obligation.

- What is the end goal?-

I want to inspire other great artist and creators to challenge themselves to create thier own strips as well - just post one strip a week of their own creation. Just one, and help improve the quality of the web comics. Post it on da in your own section, just make it your own work.

There are some great artist that just need a push and if we can show them that, it is worth their time then let us do that. I think that there are some incredible stories out there, that deserve to be illustrated. Hopefully they will give just one page a week. funny or sad it doesn't matter, what is important is taking this to the next level.

Subscription based websites for online comics do not work. they just don't, that is why i am hoping that by giving it away for free and when i am ready produce a hardbound book of each year I really want the quality good and strong. I want people to want to have it because they enjoy the work, and I want them to feel part of something.

So come and play and enjoy the tale....
trav

need a name for the strip
I need name for the strip - if anyone has any thoughts please post them. I would love to hear your thoughts- the comic is in the gallery- the girl's name is cass and it is partly her adventure. It is a mixture of fantasy and a little bit of everything else to a degree....

trav

]]> =travsthebean off to see the wizard... http://travsthebean.deviantart.com/journal/23611576/ http://travsthebean.deviantart.com/journal/23611576/ Mon, 09 Mar 2009 15:08:40 PDT
Yet I am wrong there is hope, life and color out there. we just have to see it. I guess it was here that I realized what I had been missing and that was direction. Well a little direction, the treasure map I have seems to be missing a few pieces, so I am trying to find those and return to my adventure. No matter where it seems to take me.

The key for me is fun. It has to be fun and though money is tight, jobs scarce and security uncertain, I can still have fun. I can still smile and I still imagine and journey of great adventures, big and small. So off I go, with sword in hand, hunting my dragons and trying to find the treasure.

Though to be honest, I already think I have....

trav

]]> =travsthebean the Forgotten Folk http://travsthebean.deviantart.com/journal/23554641/ http://travsthebean.deviantart.com/journal/23554641/ Fri, 06 Mar 2009 10:06:05 PST the Forgotten Folk

Well it seems the forgotten folk will be the first of a series of color art essays that I am putting together. Though the arguments for the teddy bears were strong, the Forgotten won the vote. This means the bears will prob be the second art essay book.

I appreciated all the comments and thoughts and I hope to have more. I really rely on the feedback and it helps me stay focus, so if I become a bit lax please kick me in the but to keep going. Trust me I need all the motivation I can get to keep going.

These art books will be limited runs, maybe a 1000 or 2 at the most. I want them to have worth and maybe i'll do reprints but i think the low runs will let them retain their power and value.

So in the next few months of working on this - which could take 6 to 8 months, I would like to know what you guys would like to see from me, maybe a pic a week or whatever, all i ask is for is encouragement, keep me going, especially when the inspirations wanes and i don't put a piece up. So is it a deal? and if you want to support this project even more- i would ask that you buy one of my prints, I am not asking for donations, because I have something to give in return. You can find my prints here at [link]

so who are the forgotten folk
The forgotten folk is a series of sketches and illustrations based on what happened to the fairies, elves, goblins and other mythical folk durning world war I. It is their tale on how they survived and how they are needed to keep balance within the earth. You can see some of the art here......[link]

It is a deep sad series, that still caries a message of hope... It is not meant to be a children's book, but more of a series of pieces that cause one to reflect, and maybe ... just maybe .... believe that no matter how bad things may seem one can still rise above the ashes.

Thanks
trav

]]> =travsthebean Wondercon and the future.... http://travsthebean.deviantart.com/journal/23524038/ http://travsthebean.deviantart.com/journal/23524038/ Wed, 04 Mar 2009 13:01:54 PST Wondercon and the future

Wondercon was a blast, we had a great time and before i say anything else i must thank rich and jim for making the show successful for me. Since I am not allowed to lift and such, These two wonderful people ran my booth and help keep me at ease. Some of you already know rich and I hope as we do more shows you'll get to know jim as well.

Prints are running out, which is good and the standoff (boy vs dragon) is almost gone about 20 left and then the image is retired.

Also a few new projects came out of the show for me, with incredible potential. Both are basic artbooks and are due out at the end the year or the beginning of next. THey will not come out together and I am still basically working through which one to do first- hence my new poll, I would love to hear comments and opinions.

The first book is an illustrative essay based on the forgotten folk- (more to come on that later)

The second is based on the Teddy Bear Pirates.

I am just trying to figure out which one should come out first.... So any thoughts and opinions are very much welcomed.

trav

]]> =travsthebean off to wondercon! plus back update http://travsthebean.deviantart.com/journal/23378255/ http://travsthebean.deviantart.com/journal/23378255/ Tue, 24 Feb 2009 09:29:40 PST Wondercon 2009 and FREE Sketches

Well we are prepping for wondercon - Which is this weekend in San Francisco. So if you want a FREE Sketch stop by our booth I'll be sketching for free the entire weekend. I also look forward to meeting more deviants up in that area since this will be our first time at this show.

Now for the back update
I am getting around - though i am still tired, at least I am walking. I am so appreciate all of the well wishes and support in getting back on my feet. I am still not out of the woods yet, but I feel so much better than I did. I still use a cane a bit, and cannot sit or long periods of time but i am forcing myself to get around.

As I find more out on what is going on I will keep every one posted. Thank you again, you guys have really helped in a dark period of emotional and physical trouble. Thank you

trav

]]> =travsthebean 37, lots of pain and a cane http://travsthebean.deviantart.com/journal/23019415/ http://travsthebean.deviantart.com/journal/23019415/ Thu, 05 Feb 2009 12:15:19 PST 37, lots of pain and a cane

This has been one of the roughest weeks physically for me. A week after the show I found my self unable to walk. The pain has been incredible rough and my doctor diagnosed it as a herniated disc in my lower back. Surgery is the last option and I am in the process of taking drugs to relieve the pain. The good side is there is no nerve damage yet and the doctor says that it appears to be mild, which is a good sign. I just have been restricted from a lot of activities including picking up my children.

Anyways - it has been quite depressing for me as I try to figure out what is going to happen and will I have to use a cane or other walking aide the rest of my life. I am only 37 and I feel very downtrodden.

I know that though there is hope (always is) and that this is a test I must face. It is just a horrible feeling knowing every time i stand I need help and I can barely get along. What hurts the most is the faces of my children wondering if their dad is ok or not. My 10 year old had to walk me down the hall just to make it to the bathroom.

THough I can let my spirits drop (which hey have been doing) or I can keep pushing forward and continue to draw. I am just frustrated and pretty drowsy right now so I am going to rest.

trav

]]> =travsthebean phoenix comic con review http://travsthebean.deviantart.com/journal/22840231/ http://travsthebean.deviantart.com/journal/22840231/ Tue, 27 Jan 2009 09:43:28 PST Phoenix Comic Con Review

I just wanted to say that the best show I have ever done is the phoenix comic com. It is like a second home. We are treated so well, the fans so kind, and the energy is just fun and enjoying one another. It is incredible and My hat goes off to Matt and his team who run the show. This is why I do it every year, this is why i come back.

OK sketch total: Last year we did 400 this year we topped 600 so we beat the phoenix record. Next year we will just have to more

Ok now for the feed back, on the show. Erin Gray was incredible, Tony parker was charming and fun to be around, Daniel davis and his family (steamcrow) were wonderful and are 2nd family to me. Ben(skull jammer) and his wife were life savors (thanks for the throat drops) and I was so glad they sat next to us, ben my kids thought the haircut was so cool. Y2jenn and family were awesome as well, and my advice to you still stands. All the deviants that came buy and that I was able to meet as well, you were all very kind.

I ended up on 2 panels this year, the southwestern quick draw contest and it seemed that the table breakup ended up being between california vs arizona, though it was all in fun and it was one of the highlights of my show. I produced 4 sketches for the auction on sat. To tony though i still took my time in the first round (15 minutes for a sketch) which if you know me is a like torture, yet it was no hold barred in the 2nd round I averaged less than 5 minutes for each sketch.

I sold a few original inks and many prints, some of my print pics have all but sold out so if you want one you will need to go to the beanleafpress store and pick one up.

I was glad to see My friend mike kunkle (herobear) there as well as James and Jermey Owens who have been a big inspiration to me. Also My other friend Mike Bullock (lions, tigers and bears)

My second panel was with jon lewis and james owen about childrens literature. It was an extremely moving panel one that i had not expected it to be and came away very inspired. It all started with a question directed to us from a young lady (she had to have been 20) who had a severe case of arthritis in her hands and her desire to write as she continued to loose her motor abilities. James and I have both had major hand injuries. His being far more severe than mine and we were able to really empathize that it was about how bad do you really want it and if you wanted it bad enough you can still do it no matter what you are facing. It was one of the few times I was brought almost to tears at a show. (There have been others).

The last day was picture day for me, requested by the kids I went around before the show open and snapped a few pics. Found a yoshi for my wife and picked up a few kid friendly graphic novels. The show was one of the best things for me and let me tell you we left very inspired.

My brother rich and i were very touched by the generosity that we were shown. Thank you again to the fans and friends of the phoenix con. There were so many more people we had a chance to talk with that I could not name you all but i am glad that our paths have crossed and I look forward to seeing what happens next year.

trav-

]]> =travsthebean Phoenix Comic Con Jan 23-25 http://travsthebean.deviantart.com/journal/22563902/ http://travsthebean.deviantart.com/journal/22563902/ Tue, 13 Jan 2009 16:28:46 PST Phoenix Comic Con Jan 23-25 2009
[link]

Ok guys next week is one of my favorite cons to attend as an exhibitor. For two reasons Matt runs the con incredibly smooth and the 2nd is because of all the wonderful people that I get to hang out with. Fans and Pros alike.

Just like last year I will be sketching for FREE all you have to do is come up and tell me what you would like and I'll draw it. (within reason) Last year I sketched almost 450 FREE Sketches and I think we will beat that number. Why sketch for Free at shows? well it really lets me give back to all those that have supported me over the years and makes the show so much more enjoyable as people try and stump me (the rhino stormtrooper) was a blast from SDCC.

Also here are the new prints that will be debuted at the show...along with all the other prints...

these are just the new ones and will be available online next week I believe for everyone else.

the small limited prints (Qty 100 only)

the large limited prints (18x24 Qty 300 **they are sitting now on my desk and man am I jazzed)

For a complete list of my prints go to [link]

anyways I am looking to see all my friends over in arizona - we'll be up there thursday night for preview night- And I will be sketching from thursday on.

also, I will have the original inks for sale on many of my newer prints- almost all of my older prints inks have been sold. The inks are a first come first serve basis

Anyways stay out of trouble- if you can make great- there will be a FREE SKETCH waiting for you as always

the site is here for more info along with the quest list which looks HUGE .... click the [link]

trav

]]> =travsthebean who am i in this crazy mixed up world? http://travsthebean.deviantart.com/journal/22415038/ http://travsthebean.deviantart.com/journal/22415038/ Mon, 05 Jan 2009 13:39:14 PST
I am a dreamer and believer in hope. A creator of magical worlds and forgotten memories. I am husband and father who loves his family.

I am a kid at heart and who looks for the good that life can offer. I love to play, to think, ponder and read. I love to dance in the kitchen and think i can cook, though i am not always sure.

Sunny days make me smile.

I love harmony with a little mix of chaos and thrive on long drives. I even like to be alone and yet I cherish holding hands with my best friend and thrive on hugs (though it seems these days people are afraid to offer either).

The tenderness of Butterfly and Eskimo kisses from little faces. I love the hope and faith that children have and the imagination to live in worlds without fear. The tears that come from tender moments and the longing for simple times.

I love to make people smile and hate to offend.

The sound of laughter and giggles warms me, as well as the perfect love a child can show someone regardless of how they are treated. My faith gives me hope and with that hope service to others is needed.

And yet, harsh words, cruel comments, and hard feelings sadden me but do not control me, for I control me and I control who I am and where I am destined to go.

Yet where am I destined to go?

I go where my feet and my heart take me... only I can choose between the good and evil that life can offer, no one can force me and only I can pay for the choice of my actions, whether they are destructive or not. Yet I can hurt others or I can ease another's pain the choice is mine.

SO I control me and my pen, and so in this world of thorns and broken rocks of bitterness i choose to plant flowers of kindness and hope, adding beauty to barren waste and so i extend my hand to you- come with me - come adventure and come play....

come play without fear, come play without vice or malice, were there is no teasing and the stories are grand.

yet like me it is your choice.... so choose wisely how you will live 2009 for only you can make yourself and those around you happy

tea is always at 4......

trav

]]> =travsthebean figuring out 2009 http://travsthebean.deviantart.com/journal/22358352/ http://travsthebean.deviantart.com/journal/22358352/ Fri, 02 Jan 2009 16:45:15 PST
So we will see. I have appreciated all the support that is offered here and i look forward to figuring out a way to pay people back for their kindness and friendship.

May all your adventures for 2009 be filled with hope, charity and love... and may your imagination soar to new heights and solve some of the complex issues we face. Remember our year will only we make it and I hope to make with laughter......

trav-

]]> =travsthebean I WANT IT NOW! http://travsthebean.deviantart.com/journal/21879869/ http://travsthebean.deviantart.com/journal/21879869/ Mon, 08 Dec 2008 11:14:08 PST

you don't have to have it all now.

I had a moment to sit down the other day and talk with some friends of mine that had lived and could remember the great depression of the 30's. As we talked about times long gone past, I felt a sense of guilt that I am part of a generation that wants it all right now, without willing to put in the responsibility and effort that goes with it. The whole mentality of I deserve it because sort of bothers me.

We live in the gimme gimme gimme society. We want the jobs that were earned by others, the same pay that is earned by someone who has been in the industry for years and all the toys are parents have now, that they were unable to give to us then.

I think it is forgotten the value of earning these things. Paying our dues, paying in cash and not in credit, and willing to go without for a few years to ensure that you can have so much more in the future.

Many sacrifice food for a big screen tv, or an expensive car, just to keep up with those around us. While others fill their days with games and toys and in the process the work ethic established long ago continues to disappear. And others just wait for success to be handed to them, not willing to get up and be proactive and find success that is worthwhile.

Ok I am complaining but not without merit.

I would hope that I can learn to save a little more and pay in cash. I hope I can turn off the tv and read a little more or draw, even go for a walk, I would hope that I would make time to budget better and be willing to eat more at home than out. I would hope that I can learn to do with out all the fancy toys and save for something that would benefit my family.... I would hope to garden a little more, and be willing to get rid of the clutter that fills my office.... I would hope to hold my wife's hand a little longer, play a little longer with my children and I would hope that I can teach my children these same things.

]]> =travsthebean ... time moves on http://travsthebean.deviantart.com/journal/21543207/ http://travsthebean.deviantart.com/journal/21543207/ Mon, 17 Nov 2008 22:16:34 PST

This weekend I took my children and my wife and made our way up to American Fork, to see my grandfather, who is not as spunky as he used to be. In fact, I sense that he will soon be going home.

This trip has stirred a lot of different feelings in me. Including many wonderful memories as I looked through family photos and watched his eyes light up as my son played his trumpet, which was the same instrument that he had played for so many years. He knew the songs, kept the time and told us of his first trumpet given to him by his father.

I remembered his booming voice and laughter and his concern for my welfare as a child, as he asked about my various activities I involved myself in. Memories that were for me from a more innocent time.

Yet time marches on- and so is the way of life. There are few regrets, many smiles and a wonderful spirit that all 5 of my children were able to see.

I know that time grows short. I do not mourn for I know he has much to look forward for as he embarks on that next great adventure. I know one day I too, like all who walk this place, will take that journey. I wonder will I be ready, will I have had the opportunity to make all my wrongs right? Plant all my roses in memory of the kindness others bestowed on me? and will my children and their children see that I tried to do what was right and govern my life with kindness and a gentle spirit.

It was a quick trip, and well worth it. Things were made right and I am at peace, which is where I need to be. Life is as good as you choose to make it.

trav-

]]> =travsthebean Imagination http://travsthebean.deviantart.com/journal/21336717/ http://travsthebean.deviantart.com/journal/21336717/ Wed, 05 Nov 2008 09:21:07 PST

"Imagination is more important than knowledge. For knowledge is limited to all we now know and understand, while imagination embraces the entire world, and all there ever will be to know and understand."

Albert Einstein
1879-1955, Physicist

what an incredible statement....

]]> =travsthebean rain rain .... ahhhh http://travsthebean.deviantart.com/journal/21313458/ http://travsthebean.deviantart.com/journal/21313458/ Tue, 04 Nov 2008 07:48:32 PST

First rain of fall has hit us today and I must say it has been a delightful relief to the windy warm days we have had. A lot of things are rolling through my head and I am looking forward to finally getting back to my table once this project is over and start drawing again....

trav

]]> =travsthebean answers to your questions:) http://travsthebean.deviantart.com/journal/21093127/ http://travsthebean.deviantart.com/journal/21093127/ Tue, 21 Oct 2008 10:52:17 PDT

thanks for all the great questions- If you have more feel free to ask- Right now I will focus on those below and will add more later

how often can you go back to a piece. I find I have trouble going back to an old piece, even if its only been a week, and continuing it further. any advice or personal experience on continuing older projects?

It really depends on the piece. Some of my larger pieces take many months to complete. Part of that reason is the fact that inspiration might start a project but it doesn't always finish a project at that moment and I have to end up waiting for that inspiration to return. I have noticed that in many instances that just letting things sit can do wonders for a piece and make it even stronger. My suggestion to you is patience, and don't be afraid to let things sit unless they are deadlined.

what made you decide on a 'cartoon' style?

I just love that fluid clean feeling that cartoons give, it makes me feel young

- other than Tolkien, what is your favorite fantasy cannon?

terry brook's Shanara Series and I also enjoyed the potter series.

- which artists were your biggest influnce in your 'maturation' stage?

william stout, Sergio Aragonas, Stan Sakai, Larry elmore. Mark poole, Mike Kunkel, micheal golden and so many others.

- have you ever met said artists?

yup, I have finally met them all, and have gotten to know some of them quite well along with many others.

I'd still like to see a recorded process of how you do your painting stage, I'm a wee bit confused. I have never digitally painted before, and I need to.

one day maybe, I just am a little camera shy I have some friends though that have put some good tutorials online- (outcaststudios. com is one of them)

What inspires you? What keeps you going when the going gets tough and nothing you try seems to be working? Because you always seem to have such a positive attitude; I really admire that!

almost anything, usually a sketch or scribble starts the process and then it just keeps going and going. As for what keeps me going? I guess the hope and faith that dreams and goals take time, i do get discouraged but when i do conventions and sell prints successfully i regain hope and my passion. When I am the only one that sees my ideas I can do a really good job at talking me out of finishing some pretty cool things. Also my family keeps me going, my wife especially, I would be nothing without her.

How do you run your business? Do you do this full time? If you do, how long did it take you to be able to move to full time? Do you license your work? Any suggestions on books to read about art business?

I am still trying to figure that out. Sales are a bear, you have to find ways for people to buy your work, right now i am looking to find ways to increase my internet sales. yes, I do illustrations and graphic design full time, but i cannot always do what I want though one day though. As for licensing it all depends each deal is different and needs to be treated as such, i would recommend to read everything in those contracts so you know exactly what is going on. A good book I would recommend is "the graphic designer/illustrator market books 2008 or 9 edition it has a lot of great advice in it. The other thing is talk to other designers and find out how they do things. *notes work best *

http://travsthebean.deviantart.com/journal/20967403/ Thu, 16 Oct 2008 11:55:32 PDT

*** Just signed myself up for a year subscription - yay! ***

*** update **** Just a few more questions than I will start answering ****

1st off thank you for the comments on my last journal - it helped incredibly and with the poll about the art book -

I am going forward with the art book and as I looked through several of my old sketches and such I found a few ideas I am planning to expand on and make into prints.

The question I have now is what would you like to know about me- you can ask anything. How I draw? where do ideas come from etc... I am looking to find out what people would like to see in this book and what questions you would like answered.

I'll answer any question you ask and you can ask as many as you like- so as I put this book together about my prints I touch on subjects you would like to know about.

So the floor is open-

-trav

]]> =travsthebean I NEED HELP (ART BOOK HELP!) http://travsthebean.deviantart.com/journal/20888458/ http://travsthebean.deviantart.com/journal/20888458/ Wed, 08 Oct 2008 11:37:13 PDT

Art/Sketch Book : Need Help

OK guys I need a little help - see below-

I have decided it is time to start putting together a coffee table book of all my prints and many other full color illustrations, along with a wide variety of sketches plus commentary on how I came up with the idea. I was thinking about hard cover though I am not opposed to soft color.

The reason for the book is I am producing several more prints this fall about 12 more for the arizona show (3 or 4 large ones, and 7 more smaller ones). I figure it would be wise to offer more of my world in a book, especially since people have only so much wall space for prints of so many other great artist out there.

To make it worth wild for every one would be size and page quantity. I am looking at it being 9x12 landscape or 8x12 and the page quantity would be around 68 to 80.

I looked at lulu and was disappointed that they do not offer custom sizes, so I am looking for a reliable printer that has done sketch books before. If you have had a full color art book finished and printed, who did you use?

I would also like to know which prints you would want to see in the book, That would help me ensure i put the right ones in - plus finish off older prints waiting to be finished.

The price range is completely open right now and I am trying to create a really quality piece that will make it worth it's value-

So any thoughts and help would be appreciated.
thanks
trav

]]> =travsthebean where am i going? http://travsthebean.deviantart.com/journal/20509196/ http://travsthebean.deviantart.com/journal/20509196/ Mon, 15 Sep 2008 16:33:40 PDT

Where does the pen take you today?

Floating across the paper in it's usual hap-hazzardly way, the pen once again leads me on a journey through my imagination.

I have come to realize that I love the stand alone piece. Almost more than that of writing and creating comics and stories. I love the power a single piece can hold as it pulls emotions and feelings from the viewer, that the creator might not have anticipated. I love the fact that with a single glance it can snare the watcher deep into it's own world, letting the viewer have a rare glance into the complex mind of an artist.

And so my pen draws on.

As my creativity matures, though my love for living within one's imagination remains my drive, I find myself looking deeper into my own soul, thoughts and dreams. It is there I find worlds without numbers. Worlds where the laws of physics do not always act in the way that they are supposed to. Where creatures of the old world roam and interact with those of the future. Where one's potential is never questioned or put down. A place that drives my pen forward across the paper.

And even though, the worlds I create in my work are to the most imaginary, the drive of the story behind each piece is very real. An experience brought upon by an act of humanity merged with the beauty of the world around me and mixed with the power of imagination. For the artist is a watcher of souls, and as I watch I draw.

So where does my pen go now?

I do not know. I thought it was in one direction, but I have found it being pulled back to stand-alone-pieces. Where I just create a window for those who are looking to escape a bit. A place where childhood adventures are still real, bedtimes are non-exsistant and where you are never alone.

that is where my pen goes.

trav

]]> =travsthebean so sad.... http://travsthebean.deviantart.com/journal/20420583/ http://travsthebean.deviantart.com/journal/20420583/ Wed, 10 Sep 2008 10:08:58 PDT

my heart aches

I remember all to well how cruel people can be to one another. Individuals that constantly tear down and tease others just for their own selfish means. I can truly emphasize with those on the receiving end of constant jeers and cruel jokes.

As a father, I hate it all the more, especially when it is one of your own that deals with the daily taunts of the ignorant. I see so much of myself in her. That desire to make others smile, yet so often alone. I see that in so many children that stand alone on the fence, or in the playground lonely and terrified of what others will say to them during the day as they do every day.

So as a father I can only put my arms around my little one, and let them know how important they are and that they are never alone. I see the potential each child has, what gifts they can offer. I just wish others would take the time to look for that same potential and greatness, these great kids have.

If we just took the time as people, to love each other. Serve each other and build each other up instead of always looking for ways to tear one another down, how much better the world would be. So often we are afraid to stand against the crowd and defend the lonely and those that struggle to fit in. It makes us no better than the mob.

I wish more people would just put an arm around the sad, the hurt and maybe even shed a tear with those that could use it. We all need laughter, we all need friends and we all need to be built up. So why are we so afraid to offer that to others?

The ridicule that the world throws at us and are children can be quite overwhelming at times. Our children tease one another because they see us do it to others. They merely follow what they see. So if we treated others with kindness our children will follow.

If there was one thing that I hate most in this world is mankinds ability to tear each other down and ridicule one another so we can get ahead. Destroy one another through teasing and cruelty, yeah that is the legacy we leave.

Yet that does not have to be.

I challenge you to build others up, to put your arm around another. I challenge you to defend someone who is the butt of everyone else's jokes. I challenge you to just show compassion to someone, even if you feel wronged.... please.... I challenge you to hold someone's hand that needs just a friend, to give an encouraging word to build someone up... to meet someone new.

I challenge you find the good in others and just maybe we can make a little change in a very cruel world. It's time to build up rather than tear down...it is time that we become better people than what we were.... and it must and only can start with us... so go and do.

trav-

]]> =travsthebean Sophia's Birth Update http://travsthebean.deviantart.com/journal/19852849/ http://travsthebean.deviantart.com/journal/19852849/ Thu, 21 Aug 2008 13:30:40 PDT
UPDATE
First off My family would like to thank everyone for all the wonderful comments here and the lovethat was sent here to this journal - I hope you understand why I am not commenting on all of them here.

Mom and Baby Sophie are doing outstanding. Dad is still a little frazzled actually trying to get back to work and finish off all those fun projects that need to be taken care of.

I will be posting new artwork soon - maybe a spoiler for some work i am doing. It's pretty wild how ideas change, mold and grow over time.

Anyways looking forward to coming back and answering all those notes and comments. Just have patience with me

thanks trav

Entry 08.08.08

Sophia was born to us today- she is 7 lbs 13 oz and 18.25 in with blond strawberry hair (and a lot of it). Mom and baby are doing well. Everyone is tired and the inspiration is coming in droves.

It was an incredible day- better than I could possibly imagine.

trav

]]> =travsthebean no baby yet and prints are online to buy! http://travsthebean.deviantart.com/journal/19683978/ http://travsthebean.deviantart.com/journal/19683978/ Wed, 30 Jul 2008 16:02:47 PDT

no new baby yet- still waiting though any day!

Limited Prints now online at Bean Leaf Press.

Almost all the prints from sdcc are now online at beanleafpress.com. The smaller ones are very limited like the dakota dino and the artist which both sold out at the show- but I have a few more - so if you want one you will have to go to bean leaf to get them (they all come signed)

anyways here are the new prints available....

NEW Prints to Debut at SDCC
(18x24) 19.95
(18x24)19.95
(18x24)19.95

Small Prints to debut at SDCC
(these will all be under $16 - pricing will be final in July)

** a few more to come **

so come on down to here [link] to get your limited prints. Once they are gone they are gone for good-
thanks trav

]]> =travsthebean the con is over- AFTERMATH and free sketch total.. http://travsthebean.deviantart.com/journal/19638565/ http://travsthebean.deviantart.com/journal/19638565/ Mon, 28 Jul 2008 09:33:21 PDT

Well I am home- no baby yet, that will be another thread this week- hopefully.

The con this year was fantastic - I never made it out of the booth though- I sketched, signed and laughed for 5 days (which would account for the raspy voice today).

I was delighted to meet so many people from da again this year. It was absolutely wonderful and I look forward to seeing you again next year and so forth.

I know people are curious on how many sketched i did this year and if i was able to break the record.

Well......... the grand total (this is including several sketchbooks) : 900+ I have people to verify it as well - It was so wonderful to take on the wide variety of creative ideas and meet so many new and exciting people. I think we will continue this trend and make for many years to come at the show.

So the total again was 900+

I wish i could have seen more of the show- I just couldn't leave the booth.

I'll post a few pics on my blog- it was a wonderful show and it has inspired me to continue doing more prints. (5 new 18x24 are in the works).

Once again it was so neat to meet so many wonderful people.

trav

]]> =travsthebean SDCC Updates http://travsthebean.deviantart.com/journal/19541194/ http://travsthebean.deviantart.com/journal/19541194/ Tue, 22 Jul 2008 16:53:24 PDT

Well tomorrow we leave to indulge ourselves in the insanity of sdcc. I cannot believe it is here.

I will be at booth E11 in Small Press under the BEAN LEAF PRESS Banner and will be doing FREE SKETCHES for the whole show- you need to be there to get one.

Plus I have 3 new 18x24 prints and 8 new smaller ones to go with them. It's gonna be a blast and I look forward to seeing you there.

P.S. No Baby yet..... hoping for next wed and not this week.

I'll be back prob monday
trav

]]> =travsthebean much in the head- http://travsthebean.deviantart.com/journal/19426125/ http://travsthebean.deviantart.com/journal/19426125/ Wed, 16 Jul 2008 10:48:53 PDT

First off
I was pleasantly surprised to find another one of my family members on da. One who inspires me to keep going and a fantastic oil painter- His ability to work abstractly and in oils is encouragement alone- I hope you get a chance to see his works. I have looked up to him over the years and am a grateful that he is my uncle.

some of his works (I am hoping he will put up his tiki and other works soon)

is the pole feature broken?
I miss seeing poles are they still there?

No baby yet
Any day now sophia will be born. My fear is when I will be at sdcc.

Finishing up for SDCC
I have most of the prints and I am finishing up for sdcc- hope to see you there.

Important Note! If you are going this year Stop by Booth E11 (my booth) and get a free sketch!

Yup I am doing FREE Sketches again this year to anyone that ask, the catch is you have to ask me in person- I am sorry time does not permit me to this full time- my family has to eat. It is the least I can do for all the support I have received from so many people. I completed 600 last year and I hope to do the same if not more this year. So please Stop by for the fun, check out all the new art prints I have this year and get a free sketch. I am looking forward to seeing people again.

** I will give you a hint on asking for sketches - make the request fun and unique- some of my best involved penguins and hippos. **

Special note - if you are planning to go to the show- you need to get your passes soon. SDCC sold out last year and it is expected to do the same this year so be prepared.

Looking forward to seeing you there!
trav

Trav-

]]> =travsthebean SDCC(sold out!),Booth E11 & Free Sketches http://travsthebean.deviantart.com/journal/19269356/ http://travsthebean.deviantart.com/journal/19269356/ Wed, 16 Jul 2008 07:55:10 PDT

:update: SDCC is sold out- still can't believe it a week before the show.

:update: Only sunday is still available if you want to go to sdcc. Thurs just sold out. wow....

i just checked the SDCC Site [link] and it looks like all 4 day passes are gone plus friday and saturday are now sold out. SO if you want to go Thurs and Sunday are still open but hurry time is running out.

Well it is that time of year. Just a few days away until the great San Diego Comic Con. I am now working my fingers to the bones to prepare for the show- so if I do not answer right away than I am sorry -

Important Note! If you are going this year Stop by Booth E11 (my booth) and get a free sketch!

Yup I am doing FREE Sketches again this year to anyone that ask, the catch is you have to ask me in person- I am sorry time does not permit me to this full time- my family has to eat. It is the least I can do for all the support I have received from so many people. I completed 600 last year and I hope to do the same if not more this year. So please Stop by for the fun, check out all the new art prints I have this year and get a free sketch. I am looking forward to seeing people again.

** I will give you a hint on asking for sketches - make the request fun and unique- some of my best involved penguins and hippos. **

Special note - if you are planning to go to the show- you need to get your passes soon. SDCC sold out last year and it is expected to do the same this year so be prepared.

Looking forward to seeing you there!
trav
This is the fun part.
my adventure right now

Trav-

]]> =travsthebean bears, pirates and my imagination http://travsthebean.deviantart.com/journal/18888080/ http://travsthebean.deviantart.com/journal/18888080/ Mon, 23 Jun 2008 13:00:51 PDT

Adventures come in all shapes and sizes, right now I have found that sometimes the best adventures start with a sketch and just go from there.

Right now I am adventuring with little bear pirates and boy named kip - Who search for a treasure, but i just don't know what yet, well maybe they don't either.

Yet the inspiration continues to flow and it is making me wonder if I need to push forward and do something with this series. Maybe make it something more solid.

What do you think? anyways come adventure with us and lets see where it goes.....

Trav-

]]> =travsthebean what do we do today http://travsthebean.deviantart.com/journal/18744604/ http://travsthebean.deviantart.com/journal/18744604/ Mon, 09 Jun 2008 08:43:25 PDT

It is summer time and school is out for many of you and for those of us that have kids. Some of us though, as I explained to my 7 year old, still have to sit in the land of cubicles, punching away on a computer, or some other job that demands our attention. Yet that does not stop us from adventuring and going to faraway places....

Well still you have to get your work done, but there are times that the daydreams can still creep in and make a somewhat uneventful day, fantastic....

So where are you going to go?

For me I think it is a good day to sail the 7 seas, on a old pirate ship looking for buried treasures. Nothing like a grand adventure, anyone else want to come with me and my kids?

then pack up your pistols and swords, put on your best pirate gear and let us sale the seas together... what say ye?

or do you have something else in mind...something grand and wonderful? than let us find adventure together

trav

]]> =travsthebean hunting inspiration - any thoughts http://travsthebean.deviantart.com/journal/18665904/ http://travsthebean.deviantart.com/journal/18665904/ Wed, 04 Jun 2008 16:34:09 PDT

I am in the process of hunting out some new ideas for pieces- things to have fun with and that run in the basic themes of my world. I am always up for ideas and suggestions? Thoughts? or themes you would like to see me tackle.

I do not promise though to tackle exact ideas and such - I am just looking for some jumping boards.... to keep me fresh and not stale....because no body wants a stale trav

trav

my blog [link]

]]> =travsthebean spotlight http://travsthebean.deviantart.com/journal/18563329/ http://travsthebean.deviantart.com/journal/18563329/ Thu, 29 May 2008 16:19:33 PDT

just a spotlight- something deeper will come- I promise- but I found some wonderful new work here!

personal fav- I just love this piece

Go and enjoy- share some love
trav-

my blog [link]

]]> =travsthebean let it flow.... http://travsthebean.deviantart.com/journal/18416211/ http://travsthebean.deviantart.com/journal/18416211/ Tue, 20 May 2008 14:06:41 PDT

Images start with a pen in the hand and circle on the page. By just allowing your self to flow, you can glide that pen and mold that circle into anything you want. A quick jab here, a swish there and a thick line to top it off, a world forms pure and unadulterated from others eyes.

It is the magic of creation that pulls me forward. The emotional roller coaster that one feels as emotion and drive are poured out onto a piece of paper. Sometimes I am filled with sorrow, as I ponder the mood and emotional background of the characters, while other times i am filled with the thrill of where they are going. The race of the wind as I fly through the clouds. Or other times a bit of frustration of why the circle does not bend the way I choose.

It is when the circles do not flow, that I realize I am no longer following the flow. I am pushing it, fighting, tensing up. The artwork on the paper becomes ugly in my eyes as i struggle onward. Frustrated, dejected I add another sheet to the growing mountain of paper scraps that litter the floor about me. Rubbing my forehead and pulling my hear, I hear a little voice calling me back, calling me to relax and to just let it go.

So there I sit, sometimes for a very long time, emotionally drained from pouring my heart and soul into a piece only to see it fall apart. Tense and hurt on the verge of tears, realizing that the most important thing I can do at that moment is take a deep breath, sit back and just let it flow.

And when it flows, just let it go and the sketches come once again. Small and simple, they grow, deeper and more complex, the story builds, until once again you find yourself high in the clouds watching the adventure unfold.... just as you see it.

trav-
my blog [link]

]]> =travsthebean