ED Illustration / BLOG

Posters

2012-01-26T11:59:00.000-08:00

SILVER & LEAD, FIN.

2011-12-18T18:49:00.000-08:00

12 x 12", Pen & ink on vellum bristol.

SILVER & LEAD, PART QUATRE.

2011-12-18T18:39:00.001-08:00

SILVER & LEAD, PART TROIS.

2011-12-18T18:37:00.000-08:00

Red

2011-12-04T18:22:00.000-08:00

Graphite on Rives BFK, 7 1/2 x 8". Personal Commission.

SILVER & LEAD, PART DEUX.

2011-11-16T21:45:00.000-08:00

Here's the next art installment for the new, epic EP from Villains Like You.
As mentioned before, all songs are available for download, for the price of $0.00.
Yes, you read that correctly! Now go download some free, fresh music!

Silver & Lead, Part 1 : 'Book' & 'Slugs' can be retrieved here - http://villainslikeyou.com/silver-lead/

I really don't know what I've gotten myself into here. Words of encouragement much appreciated. But I do have a theme, all will be revealed at the end.

SILVER & LEAD, PART UN.

2011-10-25T05:07:00.000-07:00

Here we go, folks.

The Delaware based blues-rock trio, Villains Like You, asked me to create some album artwork for their upcoming EP, Silver & Lead. Over the course of several emails, the project ballooned into something far more ambitious. Instead of making hard copies of the EP, the band decided to release the songs in four parts over the internet (first wave to hit soon). I thought it was a neat idea; listeners could piece together the EP over time, building some anticipation for the next batch of songs. It changes the listeners relationship to the songs as well, instead of digesting everything all at once.

Now one piece of art wouldn't cut it. Who wants to see the same image four times? So four new works will be popping up on the blog here, and will eventually connect into one epically strange piece that represents Silver & Lead.
If I did not convey how excited I am for this, I'll try again when the Part Deux arrives in the next few weeks. 'Til then!

2011-10-09T20:33:00.000-07:00

Sketches from The Kickback's mini-tour this past weekend. Thanks to the fine folks in Vermillion & Minneapolis for having us!

2011-10-02T17:45:00.000-07:00

Go see Nicolas Winding Refn's film, Drive, if you have'nt.
Go listen to St. Vincent's latest offering, Strange Mercy, if you haven't.

HANNA

2011-09-25T19:23:00.000-07:00

Sketched while reviewing Joe Wright's excellent film, HANNA.
Part fairy tale / coming of age story / action triller, with a sweet soundtrack.

'RUN LITTLE PIGGY!'

Gustavo Fring

2011-09-19T21:56:00.000-07:00

Breaking Bad's fast-food chain owner / drug lord, Gustavo Fring.
A mysterious and intriguing character; always two steps ahead of his enemies, and can hold a grudge for decades.

Starting today, you'll be seeing sketches like this once a week.

And Now For Something Completely Different

2011-08-27T15:51:00.000-07:00

Graphite, Ink on vellum bristol, 9 x 12"

Decided to let my line work run free, as its been relegated to sketchbooks and post-it notes recently.
I simply wanted to surprise myself here, and I think it worked. I had a lot of fun.

Text to come soon, please go see The Kickback at Schubas Tavern on 9/22.

Audiotree Live

2011-08-15T10:41:00.000-07:00

Good news, and bad news.
We'll start with the bad. The Kickback had grand plans for a little East coast tour in September, but those plans were broken down (literally) when the beloved, yet beleaguered band van, The Killdozer, sputtered its final miles and died. With no usable method of transportation for the band or our gear, we sadly had to put our tour on indefinite hold. I am so sorry, dear Baltimore, New York, Philadelphia, and D.C. friends & family. I was sincerely looking forward to seeing as many of you as possible, but it will have to wait.

Do not despair! There is a device which can bring us together, no matter the distance (you use it everyday, you're using it now to read this blog...), it's called THE INTERNET.

Thanks to the Chicago-based organization, Audiotree Music, you have a chance to listen to The Kickback LIVE, in the comfort of your own home (or wherever you want)! You can listen to a live stream of our performance at Audiotree Live's studios located in the Chicago Loop.

http://www.audiotreemusic.com/music/sessions/atl_thekickback/index.php

Please give it a listen. Audiotree really knows their stuff, all the previous sessions they've done are professionally recorded, mixed and produced, and there's even HD video, which should be up a few days after our session. It's a great vehicle for bringing fresh bands/musicians to your ears.

Bonus Army

2011-07-22T10:43:00.000-07:00

Graphite, ink, acrylic, tape on vellum bristol, 10.5 x 8".

Nick, the awesome AD at The Progressive asked me to contribute to the magazine's upcoming 2012 calendar. The theme was pretty neat, so I won't spoil it. Quite simply, I was asked to create a piece surrounding the Bonus Army, and it's march to Washington DC in the early 1930s.

In doing research about the events, I came across some passages from the Bonus Army's spokesman/leader, Walter Waters. It was interesting to read what he had hoped to achieve with the Bonus Army, concerning how it turned into a complete fiasco thanks to Herbert Hoover and Gen. Douglas MacArthur (they attacked a peaceful protest from WW1 Veterans, after denying their promised pay in the midst of the Great Depression).

I chose to focus on Waters' position, trying to place the viewer in his shoes. It must have been tough to be the voice of so many desperate veterans who were trying to get paid to feed their families or pay rent, whilst taking on something so large and intangible as the federal government. Kind of sounds like a familiar struggle, right?

Below are some sketches. I decided to get rid of the fish eye view in the final, but I thought the second sketch would be a neat, more subtle piece.

I was only allowed two colors, black and pantone blue. I just kept with the blue.

Vend Send Mend & The Kickback

2011-07-01T09:26:00.000-07:00

Capsule Toys, 9 x 12", Colored pencil, graphite, acrylic, tape on bristol.

Above is my contribution for the Vend, Send, Mend show, with all proceeds going to Japan relief. A ton of talented artists, both established and upcoming, also created pieces. You can see some examples of the work at the VSM Tumblr blog. I wish I could be in Baltimore when the show opens!

In music news, the awesomely friendly crew at Love Drunk Studio shot a new live video of The Kickback last weekend in Lincoln, NE. It looks and sounds amazing - a true feast for the senses. Please view and enjoy! Share it! Pass it around!

The Kickback @ Schubas

2011-06-06T10:39:00.000-07:00

Charcoal, graphite, acrylic, scotch tape on BFK, 11 x 15".

Poster for an awesome upcoming show at one of Chicago's best music venues, Schubas Tavern! Best part is I'll be hitting the stage with a new band, The Kickback.

I've spent the past few months learning material from previous EPs, practicing and trying to fit in, as opposed to updating this blog (you should know by now, I jump back and forth between art/music, and I still haven't figured out how to balance them properly).

We're in the process of recording a full length album, below are some sketches from the sessions. A typical session holds a whirlwind of emotional activity; exploring everything from guarded hope to the depths of discouragement. That should let you know that we're putting everything, and more, into the record.

To experience a day in the life of The Kickback, try following our twitter, or listening to the weekly podcasts. If we can't entertain you with music, this is the next best thing.

(L) Tyler lays down some guitar tracks. (R) Billy despairs.

(L) Danny monitors our performance and wears a scowl. (R) Billy meditates.

Come on out to the show! It'll be one to remember.

How to Survive a Fairy Tale

2011-03-13T13:58:00.000-07:00

Graphite on Vellum bristol, Photoshop, 11 x 17"

The awesome AD at the Lifeline Theatre was kind enough to ask me to do another poster for their upcoming performances. He knew exactly what he wanted so that made things easier, it was just a matter of making all the elements work well together.
The drawing went by quickly, and I was extremely satisfied with it. Coloring this piece proved to be more difficult. As inspiration, I flipped through my copy of James Jean's Fables Covers, so I originally wanted to do something that would just jump of the page, with lots of eye catching color and a balance of rendered/graphic elements.
But as I finished the drawing, I understood that treatment just wouldn't be right. I thought it would be suitable to go with a muted, rustic color palette - to make it seem as if you came across this illo in the midst of a musty, yellowed fairy tale book. It is still a poster though, so it has catch the eye.
The palette was just all over the place until I checked out some of Arthur Rackham's beautiful work, which relied more on tones with subtle washes of color. It definitely helped me wrestle the colors into something more uniform and appealing.
I wouldn't say that I am happy with the color, since there seemed to be endless possibilities. A slight change of hue or saturation in one area would drastically alter the rest of the piece. But at some point you have to make a decision and stick to it, there are deadlines to consider!

Final drawing

You can take a look at my previous effort for the Lifeline Theatre here.

I'll be finishing another music portrait soon!

Brothers

2011-01-22T22:12:00.000-08:00

Graphite, Charcoal, Scotch tape on Vellum Bristol, colored in Photoshop

7 x 10"

It's no secret that The Black Keys latest album, Brothers, was one of the best listening experiences of 2010.

My favorite tracks: Everlasting Light, Tighten Up, Unknown Brother and Never Gonna Give You Up. Adding some simple bass and keys did amazing things for their sound (fuller, richer) and the songwriting is more efficient than ever.

This piece, in almost every aspect, is the complete opposite of what I was doing in the previous post. With M.I.A. it was all about diving into some chaos and seeing what sense I could make of it, but here I meticulously planned, sketched, drew, and colored. I gave myself a very generous amount of time at each stage, and to be honest it was tough. I've become accustomed to working quickly and zipping through each stage with too little retrospection. It's far too easy (especially when you are working against a deadline with a paycheck in the balance) to forget to give yourself a little time away from the work, and come back with a fresh pair of eyes.

I tried a different color palette than I would normally choose, and I want it known that it was incredibly difficult to resist throwing some bright, saturated orange in there.

Doing work for myself/portfolio has been therapeutic, I'm feeling more inspired than I have in a good while. Expect more music pieces in the future!

Sketch of the composition. Beginning of final drawing.

Final drawing complete! Preliminary flatting in PS.

I'm considering getting some prints made of this piece to sell, any chance people would want to buy them? I've been toying with the idea of selling prints of other pieces as well. I'm open to suggestions.

EM EYE AY

2011-01-09T21:11:00.000-08:00

graphite, charcoal, acrylic, BFK, copy paper, vellum bristol, scotch & masking tape, 10 x 7"

Here's a little something to bring in the new year.

For those of you know me well, I am a big admirer of M.I.A. I remember taking one listen to Arular and finding myself hooked instantly, for reasons I couldn't explain. There was something fun about her electronically-stitched music and boastful, politically charged lyrics.

Kala was a good stepping stone, and got her a hit single. But her third album, /\/\ /\ Y /\, was what I was waiting for from her along.

Finally, I felt like the music matched her voice. It's choppy, it's brash, but damn if it doesn't get stuck in your head and make you dance (great beats!). It also gave her a chance to show off more of her vocal abilities, which aren't terribly impressive, but she chose her moments and range well. One of my favorite albums from the latter half of 2010.

So here is my small tribute to her. I have drawn her a few times in my sketchbook, but they never quite captured her or her music, and I figured out that one image alone wasn't enough sum up this artist or her music.

I just kind of dove into a piece, having a vague idea of what I was going to do. A collage of drawings, with all the rough edges of paper & tape holding them together, seemed like a fitting way to capture her. It was a messy process, but incredibly fun and refreshing - I'm really going to have to explore this method in greater depth.

After a few days I had a real frankenstein on my hands (two heads, 5 arms, 2 1/2 legs), so I decided to call it quits and do some editing/coloring. Overall, a good experiment to shake things up, have some fun to begin 2011.

Crime & Punishment

2010-12-02T18:59:00.000-08:00

Drawing done w/ charcoal, graphite, scotch tape and acrylic paint, colored in Photoshop.

Another post so soon? Incredible isn't it?

Above is an illo freshly completed for the upcoming January issue of the Urbanite,

with art direction by Kim Michalov. I just gave you a little preview, because I haven't been able to see how it works in the final page layout.

This was for an interesting story regarding old/new approaches to criminal justice. Some attorneys are adamant about being tough on crime, while others are convinced there are cheaper, alternative methods to prison sentencing that can be more beneficial to society.

There was alot to think about - Can alternative sentencing really be effective? Will it be applied to right offenders? What is the tipping point where jail time is the only option? Since these new methods to sentencing are relatively new, its hard to gauge what their outcome and success will be. I ended up doing a fair amount of research about the topic. While the research did generate thoughts and imagery, sometimes that early sketch and gut reaction is what you come back to. With the some tweaking and developing, the final emerged.

(detail)

(Alternative composition)

Up next: The demo for the still unnamed band is nearly finished, so I need to switch gears and do a bit of design work. We're very excited to show it to the world, and play some gigs.

Oh Lord, Wherever You Are

2010-11-20T04:20:00.000-08:00

I've been focusing on music these past months (listening, writing, recording), hopping from one project to next until I found one that stuck. I really couldn't let this go to waste any longer, it was made to be played!

The project that stuck has developed into a formidable power trio, playing a mix of pop, rock, and blues. We still do not have a name, so if anyone feels like throwing one out there for consideration, we would appreciate it.

We just finished recording a demo at Mystery Street, and will be able to show you once the songs have been mixed and mastered by this guy.

Below is a neat little video which will give you an introduction to the band:

I didn't completely drop art though, I've been sketching all the while. Soon enough I'll be able to show you an illo that I'm working on for the Urbanite mag in Baltimore, and some charcoal drawings after that. Consider this blog resurrected.

EDIT: I uploaded the Israel sketches to the sketch section of my website, now you can see them in greater detail.

Israel Sketches

2010-07-15T09:41:00.001-07:00

I thought I was pretty stealthy in drawing this guy sitting next to me on the plane, but I think I creeped him out and he changed seats later during the flight.

Despite being barely 70 years old, Israel has developed quickly with an interesting mix of modern architecture among ancient ruins.

On the left is a Rabbi who would wrap tourists in Tefillin whilst on their way throughout the old city of Jerusalem, reminding them of God.

On the right is a religious man who I made several attempts to draw whilst praying at the Western Wall. It was a particularly hot day and despite being dressed in heavy black clothing, he never paused or rested from his prayer.

Israel's small borders were at times paid for in blood. (top) Liron, in deep thought at a memorial for soldiers that fell in the defense of a northern border. (bottom) The Israel / Syria border.

The first one on the left is a drawing of a Holocaust survivor by the name of Mascha, who shared some of her experiences before we entered the memorial.

On the right is a drawing from a photograph of an unknown child who died in the Warsaw ghetto. Read the quote that sums up the collective feeling of those who who had to live in the ghetto.

The soldiers who traveled with us were really incredible people, I am so glad to have gotten to know and draw them. In uniform, its easy to forget that these soldiers are barely adults. (L Natan, a Navy Intelligence Officer who cannot swim, and (R) is Sivan, another officer who can swim.

Camels are freaky looking creatures.

(top) Bedouin tent where we camped for a night out in the desert. (bottom) The final resting place of David Ben Gurion, Israel's first prime minister and devout Zionist.

Drawing of our Israeli tour guide, Boaz, during Shabbat morning service. The original is now in his hands, given as a gift, so this shoddy photo is the only record I have. It was tough to part with it, but Boaz certainly deserved it.

Last but not least is a caricature of Boaz for our group t shirt. An excellent and enthusiastic tour guide, but with one flaw. He could not pronounce our group number (443), always making the three sound like 'free'. I had two hours to do this. I ended up having to pay for the shirt too. I'm never working for free again. Below the image is a cheesy inspirational quote that just looks way better in Hebrew.

Hiatus

2010-06-29T21:45:00.001-07:00

I apologize that my blogging silence must continue, but if you wait just a bit longer, there will be so much to show. I am taking a long overdue trip to Israel. When I return - sketches, photos and stories galore!

Sleeper

2010-04-22T19:38:00.000-07:00

Woody Allen

11 x 14"

Portrait commission for a friend. Most of what I've been doing lately has been design oriented, so it was great to get my hands black with charcoal again.

I've also updated the sketch section on my website! It has some of my more recent doodles up there. I'll also be doing my second annual self portrait (you can see last years here) soon as my birthday is right around the corner!

I completed my application for a birthright trip this summer to Israel, and I must say I am incredibly anxious to find out whether I get to go or not.

Tools of the trade: medium charcoal, graphite pencil 0.9 mm, eraser pen, electric eraser, acrylic paint.

2010-04-07T20:35:00.000-07:00

My portfolio site, eamonndonnelly.com is finally back up, and updated with my latest work!

The sketchbook section will be up soon, that section isn't quite done yet.

Blood In the Moonlight

2010-03-16T20:14:00.000-07:00

10 x 13"
Charcoal, Graphite, Acrylic + Photoshop

Looks like our outlaw was gunned down...
Poster for Villains Like You.
I've been busy with some design work, which has its place but it feels to get my hands covered in charcoal again. Meg and I are planning on doing a pair of posters for this band as well as these guys, who are playing a show together in April. Expect greatness!
Currently redesigning my main website, should be back up any day now.

2xPost : The Valentine Bandit / The Progressive

2010-02-10T23:22:00.000-08:00

9.5 x 13"
Charcoal, Graphite, Acrylic, Photoshop

Introducing the infamous outlaw, the Valentine Bandit! He roams the land stealing boxes of chocolate and prickly roses from the couples, and distributes them to the unfortunate singles, allowing them to endure Valentines Day.

I should have another poster for Shakedown before the month is up.

Below is an illustration done for The Progressive, for a short story.
The magazine has always had great illustration inside and out, I am very glad I got a chance to work for them.
AD : Nick Jehlen (Great guy to work for!)

4.5 x 5 5/8"
Charcoal, Graphite, Acrylic, Photoshop

2010-01-18T21:34:00.000-08:00

7 x 5"
Charcoal, graphite, acrylic.

Trying to draw more often, for better or worse. My love affair with orange continues...

I've Got the Blues

2010-01-11T09:57:00.000-08:00

8.5 x 10"

Charcoal, graphite, acrylic

John Sandford, AD for Cicada magazine, was very generous in selecting me as the spot artist for the March/April issue. Its a pretty sweet deal; you get to do a series of spot drawings and one full page piece, all under one theme. Dear friends MR, Kali, and Sam have all been featured in past issues, and I certainly didn't want to disappoint!

I've been listening to old Delta Blues recordings lately, plus I paid a recent visit to Kingston Mines (one of the best blues clubs in Chicago), so the time was ripe to put some imagery to the music.

Robert Johnson

Blind Lemon Jefferson

Leadbelly

Son House

I will update this post with a 5th portrait of Memphis Minnie, one of the few true blues women.

I'll also post the full page with some type. Enjoy!

Murderland

2009-12-06T21:56:00.000-08:00

Charcoal, Graphite, Acrylic Paint, Photoshop
9.5 x 11.5"
AD: Lisa Van Horn

Just completed this illo for the Baltimore mag, the Urbanite.
Always wanted to work for them since first seeing my teachers' (Cornel Rubino, Warren Linn) work being published during school.
The piece is for a book review about the rising rates of homicides in America. I did a ton of sketching and redrawing, but its always worth it in the end.
Should hit the stands in January!

I'll be posting the page layout soon.

3..2...1...

2009-11-12T21:28:00.000-08:00

Charcoal, Acrylic, Photoshop. 11 x 14"

Imagery for an upcoming show performed by the Balty band, Light Trees. This band's music is just so different than what I am used to listening to, I felt it required a little something extra.

Speaking of bands, if you haven't listened to Them Crooked Vultures yet, I highly recommend doing so.

All Hallows Eve

2009-10-21T22:11:00.000-07:00

Make Halloween a two day event by going to this show!

(sans photoshop)
Charcoal, Acrylic, Graphite
11 x 14''

America's Favorite Serial Killer

2009-09-16T19:05:00.000-07:00

Or at least mine. Very excited for the next season, which inspired this little portrait. I admit that the likeness is a bit off, so expect a second attempt on dear Dexter in the near future.

With extreme skepticism and guarded curiosity, I took the first step into the world of Twitter.
Feel free to follow or tweet to your heart's content.

New Song

2009-05-14T20:05:00.000-07:00

Fresh out of the sound oven!

'Love SOS'
Recorded & mixed at 5801 Studios
Produced by Will Donnelly
Drums & Guitar: Will
Bass & Vox: Me

Madame & Cat

2009-05-08T14:13:00.000-07:00

Colored pencil, graphite, acrlyic, scotch tape
11 x 14

Landscape (2)

2009-05-02T11:38:00.000-07:00

I know what you're thinking, 'Didn't I already see this?'
Well, yes, you did. But this latest version has an extra 15 layers or so of pale hues, my own mix of medium, and shellac. The client liked the landscape, but asked for some revisions, which gave me a chance to try out some new things that I had only contemplated about doing.

I'll try to get some new work up this month, June & July might be sparse in terms of posts because I'm moving. Thankfully, this move won't be as painful as the previous one. Megan and I are just moving closer to the city, and we have a generous amount time to do so. Unfortunately, as you get closer the rent goes up, so we have to downgrade to a 1br.
We found a big one though, with a perfect area to install some space to work, but that's not the only benefit. We'll be even closer to the lake, live in a nicer neighborhood, be immersed in the culture & nightlife of Chicago (lots of galleries nearby too), and save a bit of money (which might go towards getting a Lollapalooza ticket).

Landscape = Vacation

2009-04-09T11:06:00.000-07:00

36 x 40" Oil

Client: Labrum/Hayes Interiors
First real painting that I've done in a while, and I enjoyed every second of it. Kind of hurts to be selling this one so fast, I grew pretty fond of it. I wish I had time to take some good photos, but this is basically being swiped off my easel while the paint is still wet.

Progress shots:

I'll be doing a series of drawings for Labrum as well, but that will come a bit later. Details are still being ironed out.
Now that this is done, I'm off to D.C. / Baltimore! Going to relax, make music, and see some people who have been sorely missed.

subTERRAIN

2009-04-05T23:10:00.000-07:00

'Melhos Place'
9 x 7", Charcoal & Photoshop

Most recent illustration for a Canadian publication, subTerrain mag. It was a pretty fast project and fairly challenging, which I think I needed. There is a spot illo to accompany this full page, but I will post that later. There is also a wet painting on my easel, but it is too early to make note of yet. I completely forgot (again) how much I enjoy painting, I just wish I had more space to make bigger canvases.
A while back I had the priviledge of meeting this guy. I was invited up to his studio in nearby Evanston, to discuss art & illustration. He was kind enough to take a look at my work and gave me some excellent critique and overall advice. My jaw just about hit the floor seeing his paintings up close, but an unexpected benefit was seeing his sketches for a new body of work he will premiere next year. His sketches were just quick acrylic paintings on 4x6" gesso board, but they were very fresh and immediate, quite different and more experimental than his finished works.
His method for creating illustrations was eye-opening as well. There was so much preparation and attention to every step, starting from the first sketch to the last brush stroke. It just made me take a hard look at how I go about making my images. The effort that you put into the early stages certianly pays off in the end.

I look forward to seeing my Baltimore friends mid-April! It has been too long.
(Almost a year since graduation!?)

Chivalry, Dragons, & a Princess (2)

2009-03-13T10:22:00.000-07:00

Finished poster for the Lifeline Theatre.
I wish I could have had a crack at the type, but it was not to be.
11 x 17"
Graphite, charcoal, photoshop.

Full Metal Photoshop

2009-02-20T11:10:00.001-08:00

My contribution to the Kubrick anthology.
This piece went through many, many stages, so I think I'm going to take a step back before giving it my final judgement. Any critiques on your part though would be welcome.

In a complete change of pace, my next gig is for an interior design company. We'll see what happens.

Music (3)

2009-02-10T21:16:00.000-08:00

Another project for Shakedown. This time, a poster. Same elements as their cover (dancing, disco ball) with a Balinese twist. I'm especially pleased because it was a good step toward combining both traditional and digital media that I've been using lately.
Going to finish up this Kubrick business soon.
I officially love orange.

*UPDATE* - My website has a sleek new look for 09. Go!

Full Metal Pencil Day 1

2009-02-02T15:40:00.000-08:00

Sorry for the gap in updates.
Above is a progress shot from what must be one of my coolest gigs thus far. A European publisher asked me to contribute a piece to a Stanley Kubrick anthology (along with this guy, how cool is that?) they are putting together. I have free reign to do whatever I choose, which has its pros and cons. A director like Kubrick, and his body of work, are subjects with multiple interpretations and approaches. I had some difficulty deciding how to do so. After doing a ton of research, sketching and watching 2001, Full Metal Jacket, and Eyes Wide Shut numerous times, I came up with a solid idea.
I found many quotes of his to be inspiring. Here's the one that provided fertile ground for the developing piece above:

“A film is - or should be - more like music than like fiction. It should be a progression of moods and feelings. The theme, what's behind the emotion, the meaning, all that comes later.”

Describes his films well, I think.

The conductor metaphor I'm going with certainly comes from the quote, but it also references the way he directed. He would control every single aspect of his pictures to the most minute detail, and the way his films slowly build to their crescendos and climaxes posses musical qualities. This piece is gonna be pretty intense, but I am excited! I must have drawn his head a hundred times already, and those eyebrows of his require attention.

In other news: I have a new piece debuting in a group show! The opening is Feb. 6th at the Morpho gallery. Hope to see you there! Plenty of things on the horizon...

Care to Listen instead of Look?

2009-01-14T19:44:00.000-08:00

Art isn't the only thing that takes up my time (although if it was I'd probably be much better), I also write & record songs when the mood strikes.
For the first time on this blog, I would like to share an original score. It's been a long time since initial creation to finished, professional sounding end product, but I hope you can enjoy the change.
'I Beg Your Pardon'
Recorded at 5801 Studios and mixed at Avalon Studios
Produced by Will Donnelly
Drums & Guitar: Will, Bass & Vox: Me

Turn it up!

Chair: Day X+

2009-01-07T20:57:00.001-08:00

Rives BFK Tan
7.5" x 12"

We'll keep watching...

Holiday Goodies

2009-01-06T18:09:00.000-08:00

First post of 2009!
The holidays were good to me this year, I was blessed with two new gorgeous art books to add to my expanding collection. They are...George Brush's The Indian Paintings and James Jean's Fables Covers.
Have you ever heard of George de Forest Brush? Well neither had I until I went to his exhibition of Indian paintings at the National Gallery in DC. It was a small exhibit, but its about quality, not quantity here. An American who studied under Jean Gerome in Paris, Brush was a remarkably skilled painter who ventured out into the West to create this stunning body of work during the mid to late 1880s. While looking at the work, I couldn't help but be reminded of NC Wyeth's own take on Native Americans, and if Brush's work had any influence on him. Unfortunately, the show is over now, but you won't be disappointed if you pick up a copy of this book.
Meg got me the book of Fables covers by Jean. It was cool to see them posted one by one on his blog, but now they're printed and bound altogether in this nicely designed book. It's incredible to see how his style and storytelling abilities changed and developed with each cover. There are examples of sketches, alternate ideas, and original drawings/paintings with each cover, which give you some insight as to how the final was reached. I will surely be gazing at this collection for years to come.
Both of these books are serving as great inspiration for the new year, I recommend them both.

I have several projects on my plate, so stay tuned for some new work!

Goodbye 08

2008-12-18T13:23:00.001-08:00

Spot illustrations I did for Sadie Magazine a while back are now up! This was a pretty quick assignment that forced me to try something different, which is always good.
I think this will be my last update before the end of '08, so I bid thee farewell until next year, fellow bloggers.
In the batter's box: cover for In These Times? full page illo for Lux Books? music?

MR.ED

2008-12-14T20:07:00.001-08:00

While working on the piece you see above, I realized that I would need some finely detailed patterns/designs. My first thought was, 'Why, who better than Megan?'
I must give respect where it is due: she worked by candlelight while a short power outage rendered all things useless. Keep an eye for its publication in February!
For article on India's latest space exploration and the program's development. Will post the final when we feel the piece is done or the deadline hits us (we just can't decide!)
Graphite, ink on bristol, 5" x 8 1/2", credited MR.ED

Dangerous Work

2008-12-04T20:51:00.000-08:00

Double page spread for February Muse.
Charcoal, photoshop, 11 x 17".

Music (2)

2008-11-25T05:49:00.000-08:00

Behold! Album cover for Delaware based band, Shakedown. They play a mean mix of funk, blues and incorporate jam band elements, and their debut album will feature some great music (and a nice cover!)
The parameters for this assignment were pretty simple and open: disco ball + female figure. I was only too happy to oblige.
The final came about through the application of graphite, charcoal, ink, (all on a piece of tan BFK) and Photoshop. Over the past months I have relearned the value of thumbnail sketches, and this assignment was no exception. Do those sketches, kids! They do help.

Music makes the people...

2008-10-31T14:20:00.000-07:00

New spot illustration for m-m-Muse. Gaining inspiration from Gary Kelley's prints of blues guitarists, I wanted to capture that intimate atmosphere that seems to swirl around musicians as they play. The art director wanted something a bit more abstract and simplified, so I erased out the shapes from a uniform charcoal field. I know an artist should always use the best materials, but I did this drawing on copier paper, which held the thin layer of charcoal exactly how I wanted it. Keeping it from blowing off the page was a challenge, but I enjoyed pushing and pulling the charcoal as if it was paint.
Go pick up a copy of this month's Cicada magazine, and you shall be mesmerized by the cover! It printed very nicely and feels good in the hands.
More musical themed pieces to come!

2008-09-23T11:58:00.000-07:00

A sketch for a new assignment, which has to do with a very elusive mammal...I kind of want to keep it black & white.
And please check out the blog Illustrophile if you haven't already. They were kind enough to write a few words on yours truly. Many thanks to Charlene!

Home

2008-09-03T06:11:00.001-07:00

This piece for Cicada magazine finally gave me an excuse to get my new studio space organized.
I was asked to create a simple, yet powerful image to convey the idea or feeling of 'home'.
Sketched out lots of ideas (above are just a few examples), and since I had a generous amount of time to complete the work, it also gave me a good chance to really collaborate with the art director and arrive at a final image which we both felt very good about. I'm excited to see it on the cover!
At the very bottom is a sketch that could turn into something...

Stay tuned because I'm working on a new piece that will be super. Promise.

Getting Political

2008-08-07T05:36:00.000-07:00

Finally in the Windy city!

Some recent illustrations for Muse magazine. Simple illustration of W that allowed me to try out some techniques I've been developing, and I'm quite pleased with the result.
The bottom two were made for an article on voting and the goal was to recreate the style of old engraved campaign posters. The deadline was tight so I had to settle for ink on bristol, but I think I achieved the effect.
Chicago is a wonderful place, I think I'll enjoy my time here.

ICON Sketches

2008-07-06T20:00:00.000-07:00

Thank you Frank for the drink.

Day 1

2008-06-25T23:15:00.000-07:00

...of a commission. Will update it as I work. Haven't painted in a long time now, and it feels good. Really good.
In other news, I'm currently working on some illos for the next issue of Cicada Magazine. If you saw the last issue, it had some excellent work from the excellent Kali Ciesemier.
I'll also be working at ICON 5 in July, just before I head to Chicago... permanently?

Ladies and Gentlemen...

2008-05-07T22:07:00.000-07:00

I give you...The Japanese Creation Myth (in three parts)

I cannot tell you what a great feeling it is to be done with this piece. It has devoured my time and my life and probably my health as well, but it is finished! Hurrah!
This piece has undergone some many changes and false starts. See here for an earlier sketch. I took a good look at the sketch at that stage and decided that there was alot of unnecessary space in it, so I cut it down to the essential parts. I didn't want the viewer to feel overwhelmed by it, so I figured it would work best a triptych, since there was so much detail and things flying around. I'm really quite glad that I could end school on a very positive note, looking forward to seeing this printed nice and big for the MICA Commencement show. I will now catch up on some sleep.

Enjoy.

Gunslinger #4

2008-05-06T23:06:00.000-07:00

The last of the Gunslinger series.

What a journey it has been! I think I may go back in after a good nights sleep to change/edit a few minor things, but this is basically finished. Like the last piece, this really went through alot of changes. It started out as a much more straightforward, plain illustration. After putting it on the back burner for a while, I thought about what was crucial to the scene and decided to redraw it. Viola! This certainly has more mystery and drama to it that before, and fits in well with the other pieces.
Now to take a breath and finish the last piece I will do in my college career...

Quickie...

2008-05-04T23:30:00.000-07:00

Just a small update.
I had some great fun in New York this past weekend at the Society of Ill. student show. It was great to see the other works selected in person, and even better to meet some students from other schools.

Gunslinger #3

2008-04-21T11:03:00.000-07:00

Presenting my third illustration for the Gunslinger. Like the last one, this composition was radically different from the sketch I had posted earlier, and I like this one much more. It just goes to show that its good to step back from working for a bit, so that you can approach it later with a fresh eye. Taking a break showed me that the previous composition was relatively weak, and didn't hold up well with the other illustrations.

I'm pretty pleased with the work that has come out of this series so far, and I'm approaching the last piece in the series! I think I will post my process for the last illo as well, for anyone who is curious/interested. If anyone has some feedback on this piece, please feel free to share.

Get Outside!

2008-04-15T22:29:00.000-07:00

For a few reasons:

a) The weather has been really great! Enjoy it.
b) See my UFP banner on Mt. Royal Avenue, amongst the trees.

I can't think of anymore at the moment. Made some updates to my website, and its looking real nice. Also, be sure to look up the Baltimore Urban Forest Project's website, where they sell t-shirts, posters, and bags of all the banners. The money will be going to a good cause.

Gunslinger #2

2008-04-11T10:45:00.000-07:00

Sorry if I've been quiet lately, I'm working on something big.
This piece is my latest Gunslinger illustration. Had some issues with the drawing, not sure if I'm completely satisfied with the figure on the ground just yet, but perhaps I need to step back from it for a while. I changed the composition around from an earlier sketch, and I think this new comp works much better.
In other news, I have been awarded generous prize money from SoI - see HERE
Gotta tip my hat to Jeremy too, though. Congrats on winning the big prize! Go MICA go!
The Baltimore Urban Forest Project banners have gone up, I'll try to find mine and post some pictures soon. Don't forget to go to the opening for the UFP at Johns Hopkins this weekend!

It's Missing Something...

2008-03-25T20:31:00.000-07:00

what could it be?

This piece will hopefully set the tone for how I handle the Gunslinger illustrations. Maybe all my work for the rest of the semester. I want to crank out a good deal of work, and I think this style lends itself to that. Stay tuned for more Dark Tower and Creation Myth work.

2008-03-21T00:05:00.000-07:00

Redesigned the ol' website one last time! Its getting oh so close to completion. CHECK IT

eamonndonnelly.com

Crazy Days

2008-03-07T14:03:00.000-08:00

The days just seem to pass by in a blur. So many things going on its hard to keep track of it all, so hopefully this post will help me organize my head.
MAGIC FLUTE: As mentioned earlier, ended up doing some more screen designs, which I am very pleased with. Their looser and probably fit into the overall look of the play a bit better. Opens on March 12th!
THESIS: Have begun working on a new creation myth piece. This time its the Japanese story. Its fairly long and complex, so I chose to illustrate a more specific part, in which life/death are put into motion. All in all, it's a fantastic story, and I'm really excited as to where the piece is going so far, even if its still in the drawing phase. I've been looking alot of Japanese art for research, and its definitely having some affect on my line and general aesthetics, but for the better.
SOCIETY OF ILL: I am very pleased to have a piece in this year's student competition. A total of 5 students from MICA got work in (nice job guys), including myself. The show will be in New York, opening on April 30 (my birthday!), with the reception/presentation on May 2nd. To see my entry as well as other winners:
HERE

Set Designs

2008-02-29T09:43:00.000-08:00

The Magic Flute project with Peabody is coming to an end. I ended up doing a few more designs than originally planned, but am also getting paid more than originally planned, so that's fine with me. The performance runs from March 12-15.

DONE AND DONE

2008-02-11T19:18:00.000-08:00

Finally done the Boshongo myth! Took many more hours and trials than I could have anticipated, but such is the process. It was really a back and forth between pastel, pencil, and oil paint, with many layers of crystal clear and matte medium in between. After all that, the piece needed some touching up in photoshop, but I'm just glad its over with. I am pretty pleased with the results, can't wait for the next one. Society of Ill, 3x3, and American Ill. here I come!

In Progress...

2008-02-04T21:23:00.000-08:00

The Boshongo myth is coming along nicely, but I'm juggling many things at once, so my time with it has been more limited than I'd like. Rest assured it will be done soon, though.

Moleskine©

2008-01-29T17:56:00.000-08:00

Gotta love a new sketchbook. Nothing quite like it. Instead of opting for the usual Cachet 6x9", I chose a Moleskine© 5x81/2" watercolor book. Good choice! I'm trying to fill a full spread a day, and off to a good start.

Keepin' Busy

2008-01-15T21:15:00.000-08:00

2nd semester approaches! Besides trying to come up with a thesis for the upcoming weeks, I've been keeping myself busy with the following:

- working on a portrait commission (soon to be up)
- working on set design for a production of "The Magic Flute" (see pics of sketches above)
- recording new musics
- preparing for Soc. of Illustrators competition

So much to do! So little time to do it!

Creature of the Night

2008-01-07T21:29:00.000-08:00

I love the doing landscapes and scenery at night. There's something about it I just find fascinating and exhilarating to draw/paint. This was done on the shore of a Florida beach, sometime ago.

Female Monarch

2007-11-28T19:16:00.000-08:00

Fun with charcoal, pastel, and bristol paper. I'll try knocking out a portrait (or something) more often, its a good habit.

In the Oven...

2007-11-15T18:58:00.000-08:00

We have two delicious pieces for your enjoyment. The first is a chef special, called "Thin White Duke a la Mode". The second is for Mr. Parry's story.

More Fun In the Sun

2007-11-01T04:07:00.000-07:00

This trio was done relatively quickly, and boy was it a blast! I swear I'll get back to work on thesis soon...

The Skeleton Drawings

2007-10-24T20:37:00.000-07:00

So these skeletons here were meant for my next piece for thesis, but I had so much fun with the drawing, I thought I'd post them rather than progress pics. It's nice to just draw...

i'm gonna suture up my future...

2007-10-08T18:50:00.000-07:00

Cause it could sure use it at this point in time.

Get the blood flowing...

2007-08-26T15:13:00.000-07:00

School starts tomorrow and I felt like I need to draw. Bad. Considered doing a self portrait at first but remembered the pictures of armor I took while in Chicago. Pretty difficult to draw really...my neck hurts from hunching over. Chalk pastel on Reeves BFK Tan 18" x 22", with some digital touch up.

Shmerg

2007-04-21T07:13:00.000-07:00

Painting done for Lynn's class. 3 x 4' on canvas. Photo doesn't quite do it justice.

This is going to be Published!

2007-03-12T19:47:00.000-07:00

This illustration is actually getting published, courtesy of a teacher of mine from last semester. Mikita Brottman has written a new book, and I was lucky enough to get a chance to illustrate a chapter title. Basically her chapter deals alot with psychology/Freud's case studies. It was a very cool piece to work on, because I had almost absolute freedom.
So the work deals with Freud's ideology that a psychologist should act as a "mirror" of sorts and simply show the patient who they really are. Freud is also mentioned as a magician several times throughout the chapter, so I decided to referrence that as well. The piece was drawn and inked first, then finished digitally. It's around 8 x 11".