FLY YOU FOOLS!!!

Maybe it began with the fairy stories that my Mother read to me at bed time. Those fanciful tales with colorful illustrations that came from the Childcraft books that Dad had bought me. But I remember as early as age three, trips to the Tyrone Branch Library, to select books. My two favorites were "Robin Hood' and "D'Aulares Book of Greek Myths." The later I checked out every other visit. And when I reached school age, I would alternate sources so the book was almost always in the house. I was attracted to the pastel drawings as much as the tales of wonder. It developed a taste for folklore that has lasted all of my life ... even to the point of being my minor in college. 

Somewhere, in 12th grade my best friend from school days, David Wilson, introduced me to a series of books that were gaining in popularity. "The Hobbit," and "The Lord of the Rings." Just one of many things I am indebted to Willie (as he is nick named) for. 

Thanks Kiddo! 

Even in my college drawing journals started sketches based on the works of Tolkien. Maybe it's my hairy toes ... but I seem drawn to the hobbit Folk. So when I began drawing on this journal the halfling head popped up yet again. I am working at present on at least two projects that are fantasy based. 

And I had hoped to, in this post offer you a sketch that I started in the latest journal. But the drawing seems to grow and grow in complexity the more I work on it. So instead I give you another inking exercise of the wizard Gandalf.

I hope you enjoy.