The GREAT Jimmy Smith

I'm always amazed by the similarities between art and music. But more specifically, between animation and music. They work so well together. I guess one of the reasons is that they both have 'timing' as an essential part of their structure. Some of my fave examples are Fantasia (classical music), the Tom n Jerry shorts (theres jazz music from the 40's and classical too) and a lot of the work by Chuck Jones. A friend got me this Jimmy Smith collection as a christmas gift..I mean I know about Mr Smith, he's one of my fave jazzers. But I just have to recommend this one to all the jazz lovers out there that know about or have yet to discover the amazing sounds that come from the keys when Jimmy touches them. Its a great intro to one of the best periods of his career, the Blue Note years. BE WARNED: Jimmy is smokin and swingin hard on every track so be prepared to tap you're feet or bob your head to the beat. Check out 'Get Happy' on disc one..ohh boy!

Dan

Jerry

Felt a bit challenged with myself.. I've started setting myself time limts for all my sketches. This sketch took around three minutes. The quicker it takes, the better. This is'nt to say that the drawing should be rushed, or thats its a race, not at all! Learning to work faster should not be taken literally in a way. I want to be more honest in my drawings from life and avoid being 'illustrational' or concerned with style or making a 'nice drawing', so I guess its more a matter of being clear in my mind about what im looking at. I learnt this method of drawing/painting (and am still practicing it) from a virtuoso painter and good friend. I learnt from him that honesty and guts are very important in drawing.. its all about having the courage and humility to put down the colors, tones and shapes that are REALLY there, otherwise the end result is 'illustrational' or mediocre. I have to practice this even MORE now. Also try the opposite, and draw longer poses...I think integrity in art is very important.. Setting myself time limits is one of the methods I am using to achieve this. . I need to remember to buy new paints and a sharpener.. will pay a visit to the store.

Dan

Happy New Year.. from life

What better way to start the year, by posting in the journal. I know I have'nt posted in a while, but will try to get back into the rhythm, have been very busy lately.. Before I forget, much love out to all the peeps on the animation course at St Martins who I studied with. I learnt a lot from all of you, even the 3d guys and yes, even from Tom, who I sat next to for a year. Have now posted some new character designs, MOUSE-SPECTOR HOLMES, a few quick sketches from life.. I should have done this ages ago but will put up my final project and showreel soon. Much love to Shouren Ho and Daniel M.C. Alvite, without your help I would'nt have been able to finish the project.

Dan

my last sketches of 2007

meet mouse-spector holmes

He can defend himself, he has high efficiency weaponry at his disposal, he speaks five languages, he is a master of deception and disguise.. he's MOUSE SPECTOR HOLMES!! This character is being developed slowly and will be used in a short animation. Will keep you posted.

Dan

expressions

body language poses