Rob Reilly:Patron Saint of Artist Alley

Now.

2012-01-31T17:43:00.000-08:00

That's right! AKA #1 is now available digitally through GraphicLy (click here to purchase AKA), which will be available for your computer, tablets and smart phones. Woot! I have successfully done what 3 comic book companies in 6 years couldn't do, put a book out with my name on it! Proof positive that one can do it themselves!!

This first issue is the beginning of a weekly release. So look for issue 2 next Wednesday!!

At any rate, please share or RT through all the social media websites! Steve and I really appreciate all your support!

Rock!

Soon.

2012-01-11T18:05:00.000-08:00

Available February 1, 2012.

AKA Bio / Trading Card Double Spread

2012-01-07T21:18:00.000-08:00

Hey Gang,

So as the final issue of AKA is being lettered, with the first issue set to drop digitally Feb 1st., I'm doing my best to get prepared for the printed version.

Seeing how I can't concentrate on anything new until AKA is completely finished, I thought it would be best to press forward and design the creator's bio page for the end of the book. Here's some of the process from beginning to final product (used illustrator & photoshop):

AKA & Atomic Robo News

2011-12-07T17:52:00.000-08:00

Hey Gang,

It's been a while since I last posted. Life, both professional and personal has been hectic.

So, what's new?

Well we've successfully provided the first 2 issues to our Kickstarter backers (via our campaign page) including the fake trailers! Woot!

Issue 3 is being lettered and issue 4 will be finished with the colors this week. So, basically we're on schedule. In addition, Steve and I were able to pen a deal with GraphicLy to have AKA available in a digital format for all your smart phones, iPads and Nooks in about a month or so. We'll be doing a monthly release.

We are planning on doing a print-run, most likely small. But that will not happen until the issues are completely finished.

In addition, before I post any artwork. I am now being represented by Killing the Grizzly, a literary agency. Hopefully, I'll be able to sell my services or projects to studios and publishers with ease.

Lastly, I worked on a 8 page short story for Atomic Robo, which features loosely based characters from Team Fortress 2! Don't have a release date for this just yet, but I hope to soon.

Keep checking back, I hope to have more artwork and updates soon. Thanks!

Click images to enlarge.

NYCC 2011: Aftermath!

2011-10-17T17:04:00.000-07:00

Exhausted.

That pretty much sums up the juggernaut that is New York Comic Con. Thankfully, I was able to spend those 4 days with my good friends, Steven Walters (co-creator of AKA), John Broglia (artist on God Complex) and Michael Sarrao (creator of Unmasked). Honestly, I never laughed so hard and for so long than with this guy! They ROCK!

I cannot thank those who stopped by the table for a chat, commissioning a sketch, buying a sketchbook(s) or video game cartridge(s). What was really cool, was to meet many Kickstarter backers in person! It's nice to put a face to a name.

So before I throw up the sketches from the show, just want to share some news:

1. I will be doing an 8 page short story for my friends, Scott and Brian, book Atomic Robo. You might have heard of it ;)

2. Just prior to packing for NYCC, we released the first issue of AKA to our Kickstarter backers, with issue 2 nipping at it's heels.

3. Issue 3 of AKA is completely colored and is being lettered a the moment. Meanwhile, issue 4 is starting to be colored.

What does that mean for those awaiting the entire series release?!?!

Please note that Steve and I are trying to lock down a digital as well as a print release through some companies. Contracts are being read as I type this. ONce an agreement is in play, I can make a future UPDATE. Until then, please know that if you invested in AKA through Kickstarter, you will continue to get the issues first!

And finally:

5. I have started working on series of new graphic novels. I will being doing the entire 3 book series (100 pgs/book) on my own (writing, artwork, coloring and lettering). Currently, I have an outline for the first book as well as a few character designs. Just a few minor tweeks and I will be able to finalize designs and begin work. I predict that it take one year to write and draw. Another year to color and letter.

So without further wait, the commissions:

The warm-up. I love doing Captain Marvel kicking the crap out of Superman pieces, despite being a HUGE Superman fanatic! lol This wasn't for anyone, so it's up for grabs if anyone is interested!

Character from a fans web comic series. Love the design of the character!

And here's Annie with her sketch! She was super sweet and we discussed the importance of the comic communities need to share techniques and support each other. It was a pleasure meeting you! :)

This was for a gentleman, who was a brother of an ex-Disney Animator. These guys were so funny, they complimented me about my hair and then said they hated because I had "cool hair" (they were bald), stating that it "ran in the family". I was quick to correct them, "You mean it runs OUT in the family. HAHA :)

If anyone knows the movie "King of Kong" and knows me, knows I hate Billy Mitchell. What a douche! hahaha But I absolutely LOVED having to work on this commission, I'm not much a caricaturist but when someone has that much character in their face I really nail it!

If anyone doesn't remember last years post, click here for NYCC 2010. Officer Chang of the Harlem district returned this year for another three. One of him, his partner and his two twin baby boys! He told me after his commission last year, his fellow officers ragged on him for being a comic NERD, but then secretly on the QT asked to hook them up with some Rob Reilly Comic Goodnees! hahaha Anytime gents!!

Jake and Lucas. Wonder twins, form of super cute babies! hahaha

Well folks, back to the drawing board.....as always thank you for your love and support!

R!

New York Comic Con • Oct 13-16

2011-09-29T18:58:00.000-07:00

Steve and I will be in artist alley, table #N19. I will be available for commissions and will be selling AKA related merch.

Here's a visual aid:

Space MAACNESS!

2011-09-17T07:54:00.000-07:00

I recently completed another illustration for Rider University's MAACness night. I believe this event is the celebration of the first game of the season for the Men's Basketball team. Here's my process from sketch to pencils to finished piece. Final illustration was created in Illustrator with added effects in Photoshop.

This illustration will be printed on posters and on T-Shirts. I'll try to snag a few samples if I can and post them here.

Click images to enlarge.

Enjoy!

EDIT:

Client wanted change on arm with flag. Here's the final:

Zombie Dickheads Pin-up

2011-09-03T11:46:00.000-07:00

So my good friend, Chris Moreno, asked me to contribute something for his new upcoming, creator-owned project: Zombie Dickheads. You can find out more about his project by clicking here.

Here's the pin-up I did for the book, pencils to inks to photoshop. I'm hoping Chris will finish it off with full colors. If and when he does, I'll post it here.

Click images to enlarge. Enjoy.

1.

2.

3.

EDIT:

4. Final Colors by Chris Moreno

AKA for your NES and Atari Consoles!

2011-08-23T17:23:00.000-07:00

Well actually to be more accurate for novelty purposes. These are in fact REAL Atari and NES games, but with an AKA label. Illustrated and design by me, Rob Reilly. Colored by Jeremiah Summary. The NES cartridge does come with the black plastic sleeve.

You have the option to purchase one of each separately or both together. Shipping will be the same regardless.

The Return from Baltimore Comic Con

2011-08-23T17:17:00.000-07:00

Just wanted to say many thanks to those who stopped by the table for a brief friendly chat. Saturday was extremely rough for me. However Sunday I was swamped! haha I'm very thankfully for the few fans I have that attend this show. A ton of people were drawn to the NES and Atari AKA Catridges! Got to love those childhood memories.

Before I left for Baltimore, I worked on a few additional pieces to fill up the portfolio. The George Reeves didn't more than 5 minutes online before someone snatched it up ( A benefit of following me on twitter and facebook, I always am uploading photos there of new stuff). Here's what it looked like finished:

In addition, I worked on this kick ass Superman vs Flash: The Great Race. This one is still available for sale. Click the button to purchase it. The inked and colored (with Pantone markers) piece measures at 11"x17".

Finally, here are a few commissions I had while at Baltimore Comic Con:

Cheetara for Heather (who had originally purchase Lion-O) NOw she's got the pair to frame.

Captain America

The Flash

Kitty Pride (looking up Logan's towel)

Baltimore Comic Con/Aug20-21

2011-08-10T13:13:00.000-07:00

Hey Gang,

Here's an update for Baltimore. I will be sitting at Artist Alley booth A132 with my good friend John Broglia. If you havve trouble spotting me, here's a photo of my new banner:

In addition I will have my old one with me FOR SALE!, for all you "hardcore fans":

Looking to get $200 (what I paid for it originally).

As a reminder I will have the ability to take credit cards now, so you will no longer have to worry about cash flow issues or waiting in line to use the ATM.

And finally I will have these for sale:

It's has commentary as well as visuals. They will be for sale for $15 which includes a pencil sketch. Will have available via the web soon. I'm still hoping to have the NES and Atari AKA games available for the show but I am at the mercy of the printers at the moment.

Well hope you to see you there! :)

New Inking Video

2011-08-02T16:35:00.000-07:00

Enjoy.

Preparing for Cons

2011-07-31T20:14:00.000-07:00

For the past week, I've been trying to get back into the swing of things. I hadn't drawm anything in 4 weeks. After, what felt like running the NY Marathon, I had to take a break from drawing.

Now that Baltimore and New York Comic Con are fast approaching, I need to start working on some pieces to have for sale and just flex those muscles again.

Here are a few new pieces that I'll have for sale. Click image to enlarge. Enjoy.

AKA the Video Game

2011-07-23T09:44:00.000-07:00

So I've been hard at work trying to come up with some really cool merch for this book. As part of my "Breaking the 4th wall", I wanted to make fake video game labels as if AKA came out in the late 70's but was popular enough to spawn a game. I bought many NES and Atari 2600 cartridges and should have these available for Baltimore Comic Con. Enjoy!

Colors on illustrations by Jeremiah Summey.

Click images to enlarge:

Convention Sch. and Video

2011-07-16T10:58:00.000-07:00

Hey Guys,

I know it's been a while since I've posted anything new here. Once AKA is finally in the bag, I can and will start posting more.

First issue is completely finished with Issue 2 half way there.

I'll be attending Baltimore Comic Con and New York Comic Con for sure this year. Any additional conventions to be added willbe announced later. Oh yeah, and I am able to accept credit card payments now! You'll never have to worry about cash flow when you stop by the table! WOOT!

Here's a video I had shot and put up for our backers on Kickstarter 4 months ago. Enjoy!

How to run a successful Kickstarter Campaign

2011-06-03T09:48:00.001-07:00

So I had a few inquires about how to run a successful kickstarter campaign and though I answered them already (without as much as a thank you; nice way to start off people, always thank anyone who is willing to take time and give you advice). I thought it would best to give a quick once over for anyone who's interested in starting one themselves. I highly recommend it, this is THE best way to support the arts. Consider starting a Kickstarter campaign as another job. It needs just as much attention as the project you pitching.

First things first: you need project/product. For me, I didn't start my Kickstarter page until I started penciling the third issue. I didn't see the point in starting from day one of drawing the book, it would've hurt the development of the comic.

Step two: What do you need the $ for? For us, Steve and I really needed the $ for our colorist and letterer. The only rule that sticks out in my mind, is that you can't use the $ to pay yourself. Some people require funding for the actual production of their project/product. This reason must be absolutely clear to your prospective audience/backers.

Third: Incentives. Nothing is free in this world, people want something for their hard earned $. However, I recommend the K.I.S.S. method (Keep It Simple Stupid), I researched and read other blogs about successful Kickstarter models and found that keeping the choices limited and simple were the best methods. Our incentive plan was:

$10

$30

$50(limited to 25)

$100(limited to 20)

$250(limited to 10)

Everyone who pledged got the minimum of the entire 100 page series as a gift. Each pledge category added a hardcopy, printed version, then a limited sketchbook, then a head sketch of a character and finally an original piece of artwork from the series it self.

Length of Time

This graph represents the total 90 days of the AKA Kickstarter campaign. Surprisingly, this we had a steady stream of pledges throughout the process. However, during my reseach, I noticed that most people had a lot of pledges the first few days/weeks and then again at the end. That model seems more typical. If you have time, 90 days will work for you, but I would suggest that you try out the 30 day period to get the best results. Most of the time, people will out off today what they can do tomorrow until they can't anymore.

The FACE of your campaign

Here are suggestions that I feel will help you reach your monetary goal:

1. Make a video. 9 out of 10 people will not read your written explanation of your project. Get in front of the camera, talk to the people and be sure to include photos of your project throughout.

2. Updates. Only update through your Kickstarter page. Never send people to a separate website. If it's self contained, you're more likely to get their pledge $. Include not only written announcements or progress, visuals are a MUST HAVE. The more you update, the more appealing your project will look to new backers.

3.Word of mouth: If you're new to this industry, social media sites are your bread a butter. I posted 3 times a day for 90 days straight on twitter and facebook. I also contacted various websites, podcasts and even the local paper. If you don't beat them over the head with it, they'll never remember to support it. Expect and assume that you're project isn't on the top of their to do list. You have to make you're own hype so that people will care about your project.

Well I hope this has been educational and informative. Good luck to you if you decide to go down this path.

R!

Success and more

2011-05-29T08:57:00.001-07:00

Hey Gang,

Will as you already know, I haven't been posting here much since starting our Kickstarter fund raising adventure! However I am proud to say, we were successful in raising $6,551, that's $551 over the $6K goal! WOOT! I cannot thank those who pledged enough, we have the entire series completely written and drawn and would not have been able to get this project to the next level without their generosity!

So, now what? lol

Well we are putting the final touches on our contracts for the colorist and letterer, which should put us on a 30 day schedule for each issue, as long as everything goes well. I will continue to post update on Kickstarter for those who backed us with exclusive content. Mostly pages completely colored and/or lettered as well. In addition, Steve and I will be submitting to publishers, hoping to find the best place for our project.

However, I must post content here as well. So I will only post artwork here and there that have already been posted during the original Kickstarter 90 day drive.

Here's a tease, first issue's cover. Though we don't have a home yet, this logo just looks and feels right on here!

Click image to enlarge.

In other news. In case you don't follow me on twitter or facebook (links are listed to the right), I planned on modifying my art desk once this book was over. This was brought on because I've had major back issues from my day job (too much heavy lifting) in addition to hunching over an art desk nightly (a year's worth of chriporactor visits). So I was tired of using a light box similar to this one:

I've been using this to ink pages for 6 years, enough was enough. So I decided to build my own and cut a hole in my desk to fit a sheet of glassto create my own custom light box. This will, hopefully, stop any further damage to my poor back!

Here's a few before images:

And here's the after, still need a piece of glass. Since it's a holiday weekend every place I called yesterday was closed.

It's quite simple if you have the time, patience and tools. I think total cost to me (having to purchase a few tools) was $300. Total time to construct, 4 hrs.

Box is measure at 16"x20"x5"x.75", opening is 15"x19"x.25" (routed out). I also remove 3" from the front of the desk so I could reach the lightbox area better. All you need are the following:

Pressboard
Corner Brackets
.5" screws
Light fixture with bulbs and cord
Drill with bits
Router with bit
Jigsaw
Screw driver

I'm super excited to use this.

Thanks for stopping by and look for future updates soon!

Extra Extra, Read All About It!

2011-04-25T16:40:00.001-07:00

Though I already posted this everywhere else but in case you missed it, I'm reposting it here. I was fortunate enough to not only be in today's newspaper but the FRONT PAGE! Thankfully all horrible politician, murderer and drunk driver took the day off just so I could have my 15 minutes of fame! hahaha

At any rate, here's the link for the online edition complete with video!

And here's the link to view the printed article!

Also in case you missed it. I was also lucky to be a guest on Big Kev's Geek Stuff podcast and talk about AKA and how we're raising money through kickstarter.

Kickstarter still needs your HELP!

2011-04-19T17:00:00.000-07:00

If you happen by here and wonder why there haven't been any new updates. It's because it's all happening at our Kickstarter page for AKA! There's ton of sneak peek artwork and videos, all you have to do is pledge! You'll have a chance to see the book being developed and help raise money for our colorist, but you get a ton of great stuff for your $! Visit AKA's Kickstarter Page and basically pre-order the book with a chance to take a few additional things home as well.

Thanks to all who have already pledged! You rock!

Reilly

AKA Needs your HELP!

2011-02-25T14:50:00.000-08:00

This is it people. The moment of truth! I finally finished editing our video and it's live. PLease visit our kickstarter page and contribute what you can. There are some really great rewards!!!

Thanks!

AKA Action Figures!

2011-02-15T19:48:00.000-08:00

Paid my good friend Tom Rebello for some customs of the 2 main characters, Guy and Truelove.

They are so cool! hahaha

Click image to enlarge.

AKA Movie Dream Cast

2011-02-06T12:07:00.000-08:00

Bearing down on the final chapter on the AKA Mini Series. About 5 pages finished. And while I was inking a page yesterday, I thought it'd be cool to blog about what my dream casting would be for an AKA movie adaption.

They are as follows:

Lee Tergesen as Guy Doyle
Chad Coleman as Adrian Truelove
Mark Strong as Armand Bedrosian
Ray Liotta as Luciano Princincenzo

Click image to enlarge

Childhood Hero Revisited

2011-02-02T07:17:00.000-08:00

Thought it be nice to blog about something other than my artwork. I assure you this a rare thing! lol

I'm sure that many of you are unaware but I am a huge Weird Al Yankovic fan. Have been for nearly 25 years. I first saw him in concert in 1986, when he opened for The Monkees. Memory is a little fuzzy but I do remember him sawing a woman in half while performing "Like a Surgeon" and giant potato costumes when he sang "Addicted to Spuds". I've probably seen him 8 or 9 times in concert. If you have an opportunity, I highly recommend seeing him live. His shows are quite funny, particularly the video skits in-between costume changes. It's refreshing to see a comedic performance without cursing or vulgar language.

At any rate, I remember the first time I met him. I was 14 years old and I saw him with a few friends at the Count Basie Theater in Red Bank, NJ. This was 1994. We waited after the show near his bus for an hour and he came out to meet & greet his fans. He took photos and signed stuff, it was such a blast. I totally geeked out and blathered on about something to him. You know, the kind of yammering that makes you look like a complete idiotic weirdo. I'm still embarrassed about it to this day. We were just kids, bringing a camera didn't even enter our minds. This woman, whom we didn't know, kindly offered to take our picture with him and mail us the printed photo. A few weeks later this came in the mail!

I wish I could remember her name, so I can thank her for all the internet to see, but I did write her a thank you letter. It was the single coolest day in my young life. And proof that not all people are mouth-breathing jerks.

16 years later, I got to meet the man again and I have to thank Twitter. If I didn't create a twitter page and start following Weird Al I would have never know that he:

A. Wrote a kid's book

and

B. That he'd be 20 minutes from my house last night

Needless to say that I was much more poised than when I was 14. It was a long wait, but worth it. Weird Al was kind enough to not only sign his new book, "When I grow up" but also my CD Cover for his retelling of Peter and the Wolf.

Not many people know about this album, it wasn't music and as far as I know didn't do well and is hard to find. He said "Wow, where did you find this?" I replied, "Bought it the day it came out, a little over 20 years ago." I handed him a few copies of Shrek #2, which I drew a short story in back and told him I looked forward to the new album.

I just wanted to say that I've been a fan for a long time and I've met many "famous" people over the last 10 years working the convention circuits and I have never met anyone more professional, genuine and polite as Weird Al Yankovic.

EDIT
Whenever someone asks me, "Who are your influences?" I rattle off a few comic creator's who artist style influence me, but to be honest that's not the reason I draw comics. Comedians. Comedians are why I draw comics. Granted animation and film are also influences but I never wanted to direct a film or draw an animated movie. Comedians can make you visualize a story simply with words. I grew up on The Marx Brothers, 3 Stooges, Abbott & Castello and Weird Al. I know it sounds weird but the visual aspects of comics and animation influence my artwork, but comedy made me the storyteller I am today.

Page Breakdown

2011-01-25T20:56:00.000-08:00

WEll I finalized the tattoo designs yesterday and spent 3 hours photoshopping them in.

Here's a breakdown of thumbnail to finished page. Sorry no script on this one, there wasn't one. I had free rein for this part. lol

Click to enlarge.

AKA the final chatper

2011-01-22T10:14:00.000-08:00

So I finished Issue #3 a week or so ago and I just got the final script from Steve. I hate to see these characters go but maybe I can convince him to do another series in the future. At any rate, here's another page from that issue. Enjoy.

Click image to enlarge!

Creating a new Drink N' Draw Society

2011-01-13T16:52:00.000-08:00

So a few years back I made a sketchbook called "LoneWolf: Drink N' Draw", it contained sketches from when I would go to the bar by myself and draw. I don't belong to the real DnD Society. I don't live in LA and driving/taking the train into NYC would be too much of a pain. I thought it'd be cool to start my own drink n' draw club. So I created a universal charter for any working professional artist can join. I finished the logo tonight and plan to make shirts and member vests. I also started a blog nothing up just yet but will be posting rules and regulations soon. I want this to be a place once a month where I can post a few images from myself and others as we have a few beers. Hope you guys like it. Look for more updates in the near future, Thanks!

Flash Game Sample

2011-01-07T21:51:00.001-08:00

So I might have mentioned at one time, but I'm not certain but I'm currently looking to leave my current employer. Also known as "The Day Job". I recently applied and tested for an online flash gaming company, you should check out their site! Visit Poptropica , their games are a lot of fun and somewhat addictive. I really hope I get this job. Hope you guys like it. I'll keep you posted if I hear anything. Click image to enlarge!

Starting 2011 Strong

2011-01-02T14:27:00.001-08:00

First things first.

I finally finished designing my website in Flash. It's a simple website that is full functional, no "Under Contruction". I'm so glad that I took that class. I do plan on updating it soon and completely revamping it. The goal would be to have that as the main hub for all my updates. Please visitmy official website and let me know what you think.

Secondly.

I was informed that Shrek #2 is finally out with yours truly as the back artist. Please run out immediately to your local comic shop and purchase as many copies as you can carry!! lol

VisitApe Entertainment's websitefor additional information!

Thirdly.

Thought you guys might be interested in what my studio actually looks like.
Here are a few images of my "view" every night and weekends. I look forward to the day where I can have a studio with an actual closing door.

Lastly.

The holidays were great but scuttled my timeline on issue #3 on AKA. I have two pages left to go and then it'll be time for the last hoorah with issue #4. It'll be a bitter sweet feeling to end this book. I look forward to starting my new project, which I will announce upon AKA's completion. But I will definitely miss these characters. Perhaps I can convince Steve to write another story with these characters, a prequel...or maybe disregard typical "laws of continunity" with a story that takes place after. We shall see.

Second lastly.

If you were wondering whatever happened to the two books I did last, "Planet Zoo" and even before that "Imaginary Friends 2". I was recently informed that the business end of these books were tied up in a lawsuit, there is hope that a settlement will be reached shortly.

Though I was paid for both, I have to vent some frustration. I don't just want these books to come out. I need them to! It seems that I have fallen in the cracks of the industry, being unable to obatin work since I'm considered "unexperienced" or "have yet to be published". On the contrary, I was somewhat successful with self-publishing "Convention Confessional". In fact, I was even reviewed in Wizard Magazine, when it was still a comic related publication. Not bad for a nobody. I've been working in this industry for almost ten years and have been featured in 12 books total for several companies. So for any future employers, I can assure you that I am a hard working, professional and productive artist who has paid his dues. My work and many references speak for themselves.

So here's to 2011. I hope to get more comic related work!

Slash and Burn

2010-12-19T11:22:00.000-08:00

Here's another page I just finished! Felt like I didn't give the Mexican mobster enough "face time", so I thought a Machette homage would be fun and fitting!

Click to enlarge.

Fight Fight Fight!

2010-12-15T17:18:00.000-08:00

Continued Chaos

2010-12-08T19:00:00.003-08:00

Here's the next page. BLAMO!

Click to enlarge!

Just finished

2010-12-04T15:08:00.000-08:00

Finished this one today. Tried a few new things on this page. I somewhat like it, not bad I thought for a first try. Click to enlarge.

Time Machine

2010-12-01T18:45:00.000-08:00

So my mother was cleaning out my grandmother's house the other day and came upon this wonderful bit of history.

I drew this in 1988, at the age of 8, it's a very unflattering illustration of my mom pregnant with my brother. She laughed her ass off at the fact that I even drew him kicking her. Apparently, I also drew in a butt but decided it was going to far and tried to erase it.

Everything I am, I owe to the eduction I received here:

hahahah just kidding!

Thought you'd be interested in seeing where I started in my art career and how far I've come to stay in my rut. hahaha

Meanwhile, hopefully my american followers had an excellent Thanksgiving. As I always said, any day off is a good day! And with the upcoming holiday season upon us, don't forget that I am available for commissions, feel free to email directly if you'd like to get something for a loved one..er, or enemy? (Shrug)

In addition, I'm close to finishing Issue #3 on AKA, I think it's 6 pages left. Should go somewhat quick, I hope. As I mentioned beforem Steve and I will be putting together a Kickstarter page in order to raise $ for the colorist & letterer. We plan on shooting the video this month. At any rate, here's a nice panel from the 3rd issue for your enjoyment. Click to enlarge!

Thanks!

Created a Design Portfolio online

2010-11-21T16:09:00.000-08:00

Though I'm still attending classes to learn how to build a proper website, I decided to create another blospot in the meantime.

Click here to see my design work.

Back to School, Back to School

2010-10-25T11:15:00.000-07:00

Just like Billy Madison...well except for the insanely rich part.

I've decided to go back to school and take a few night courses in web design in order to help me find a better day job. I am no longer satisfied with where I'm at in life, both in the area I live in and the work I am doing.

Though I am still working on AKA, which for all I know could be a huge success, thus making any search for a new day job a waste of time. Wishful thinking I assure you.

For those of you who don't know me well, I always hated school. Most of that time was spent drawing in the margins of my notebook. Though I did well on tests, paying attention wasn't my strong suit. Not much has changed in the past 12 years. I picked up a composition notebook for class this morning and I haven't even been to the campus yet and I already drew on the cover. HAHAHA

Click image to enlarge.

This does not look good for the next 2 weeks! lol

Business Cards

2010-10-22T10:04:00.000-07:00

My best non-paying client, my girlfriend! hahaha

She's got an upcoming tradeshow to go to. Needed cards and since someone better wasn't available I designed these for her. LOL!

Click to Enlarge.

New York Comic Con

2010-10-11T18:15:00.000-07:00

"Phew."

That was my feeling after getting home. What a great show. Thanks to everyone who stopped by and said hello, signed up for the mailing list and supported me with commission requests! You made the trip worth making!

Here's a few commissions that was able to get done in three days, a few are missing since I forgot to take a snap shot once I was finished (Two-Face, Dr. Orpheus and Ras Al Ghul). As always click images to enlarge. I know I need to get a better camera phone!

This one was my favorite out of them all, once in a while someone asks me to draw them. Officer Chang of the Harlem district asked me to draw him or as he put it an "asian cop". Caption reads : Mythbusters #20 Not all cops like donuts" Box reads "fortune cookies".

Daredevil playing pin the tail on the donkey.

The Rocketeer

The Plutonian from Irredeemable with K.C. Superman's head on pike

Omni-Man from Invinicble

Kirby character OMAC: One man Army Corps with "Secret" deodorant stick.

Kingdom Come Superman, pissed that Billy Batson ruined his new costume with lightening bolts, me 2nd favoriite sketch of the con. I love drawing this version of Superman, if I could do a mini series based on this character I'd be so HAPPY!

Clark Kent

Cyclops Commission

2010-10-05T20:58:00.001-07:00

Hey Gang,

Finished this commission just in time for New York Comic Con. Thought you'd enjoy seeing the break down of such a project. Or maybe not. Whatever. (Sorry I've been watching a lot of "Curb Your Enthusiasm" and am having a Larry David moment, HAHAHA)

Anyways, if you want to get a commissioned sketch, I'll being drawing all weekend at TABLE E-3. Best bet to email me prior to the show for any obscure characters, so I can find reference or make sure you have it with you. Hope to see you there! Click images to enlarge!

New York Comic Con

2010-10-03T07:14:00.000-07:00

EDIT:
Finally got the damn table number! Geez. I will be sitting at Table E-3. Here's a map. Hope to see you there.

Let the bodies hit the floor, let the bodies hit the floor

2010-09-29T18:18:00.001-07:00

Hey gang,

Despite New York Comic Con approaching (Table # is coming), I've made quite a bit of progress of AKA series. Inking the first penciled pages for Issue 3. Check out a few panels:

There's a lot of gory violence to draw in this issue but I don't want to spoil it. Unfortunately, never having drawn it, I have to look up messed up photo reference.

At any rate, if you're coming to NYCC, I will have photocopies of the first 2 issues on display for your viewing pleasure!!

Look for an update before NYCC for table info!!

Last of the Colored Pages

2010-09-16T14:46:00.001-07:00

That would be a great title for someone's album. Anyway, so yes this is the last of the colored sample pages that we had done for our proposal. Hope you like'em.
Click to enlarge image.

I just started working on issue #3 (out of 4, we cut an issue for a stronger story structure). Once I'm at least half way through it, Steve and I will be starting our Kickstarter fund, it's a place where we can pitch our idea and get backers. I'll be letting you guys know when are up and running, any and all donations would be greatly appreciated and, of course, rewarded.

Finally, will be at the Wildpig Comic Convention this weekend. Not sure if I'll be doing both days, but I will be there on Saturday. So if you're in the tri-state area, come check it out. Visit http://www.wildpigcomics.com/ for additional information.

Oh and don't forget, I will be at NYCC in a few weeks, splitting a table with my good friend John Broglia.

Back to the drawin' board. See you all soon!

Additional A.K.A. pages

2010-08-30T21:02:00.000-07:00

So I'm nearing the finish on this second issue of AKA mini series, I hit a speed bump with it for some reason, but I can't wait to get to issue 3. It's all explosions, gunfire and "get to da choppa"!! Well maybe a little less Arnold. lol

At any rate, here's the next two pages from our pitch!! Click to enlarge, enjoy!

Hilarious!

Oh yeah, and don't forget to follow me on Twitter! Links under "Where else to find me" section.

See ya soon!

R!

Progress on Project Update and more

2010-08-10T15:54:00.000-07:00

Hey Gang,

So I'm slowing making progress on the second issue of the grindhouse project. 7 more pages to go. Issue 3 from what I can recall is pure action and craziness. I will be stressing like hell to make sure it looks cool but in a crappy 70's explotative way. :)

Below is the second page from our 6 page publisher proposal.

Art by: Your's Truly Words by: Steven Walters Colors by: Giuseppe Pica Letters by: Jeff Powell

Click images to enlarge.

Additional, here's pencils from Issue 2 page 1.

In other news, my second Shrek short story will be in the new issue that's out in a week from Ape Entertainment. Be sure to go out and buy a ton of copies! One for every room in your house and each family member!!

Finally, I am scheduled to do two shows in the fall:

September 18-19, Springfield NJ, more info listed here http://www.wildpigcomics.com/

New York Comic Con, October 8-10, New York City more info listed here http://www.newyorkcomiccon.com/

Though I'm not listed as a guest, I will be splitting a table with my friend John Broglia.

Hope to see you guys there. Oh yeah, don't forget to add me to your twitter followings, the link is on the side ---->

Logo Fixer-Upper

2010-07-26T10:26:00.000-07:00

As mentioned previously, I don't post much of my day job stuff. Most of the time, it's not creative and soul sucking. Thought I'd take the University's radio station logo and make it look a little more exciting. Don't know if they'll use it, but it was fun anyways. Here's a before Rob fix and after.....

Hitting the big 3-0

2010-07-17T07:05:00.000-07:00

Hey Gang,

It's been a while since I posted anything new. So here's the latest news about your's truly:

1. I turned 30 this month....man I'm getting old! hahaha

2. Finished another Shrek short story, set to release in this August. Pre-Order now!! Check out this finished inked page.

3. A while back, I did a sample for the Megamind comic. Haven't heard back about it, but here's the piece I did.

4. Finally, I'm back to work on my on book, AKA. I'm almost finished with issue two! YAY!

Check out this finished page from our sample kit.

Thanks for stopping by. Look for future postings!

Also Known As

2010-05-27T06:23:00.001-07:00

Holy crap! Two posts in a month?! I know, even I'm shocked. So as I mentioned before, I've been working with my long-time friend and co-creator Steven Walters (writer) on a 70's Grindhouse book. We've got the first issue penciled and inked and a could part of the second issue completed at some stage (either penciled or inked). At the moment, we're shopping it aorund with different publishers and even considering it as web comic. Whether through it's own site or release through iTunes.

Here's an image to give you a little taste. My plan is work on this straight through til completion for the next 5/6 months. Any help generating buz is great and look for a possible donation drive to help raise money to pay the colorist and letterer as well as a future trade publication. Thanks!

To Boston and back and other tales

2010-05-21T16:53:00.000-07:00

Hey Gang,

Sorry for the long wait. I've been swamped with deadlines. So recap the last month or so.

Boston was great, got up at 5:30 am Saturday monrning, arrive in the fair city by 10 am. Parked at a meter that was a five minute jog each way, which I did every two hours on the clock, didn't receive a ticket and I got fit while at a convention. A rarity I assure you. Many thanks to those who stopped by, purchased a sketchbook or commission! I love this city and will come back as often as they will have me. List below are a few photos from the show.

Donated this Captain America for the Dave Simon's scholarship

In other news, the Shrek Prequel has been out for a few weeks now. Here's a picture of me buying a copy at my LCS, it was for my mom.

I'm currently working on another short story for the Shrek series. So if you haven't already, be sure to pick up your copy ASAP! Also, I recently gave an interview regarding a webcomic I did a while back, here's the link to the interview and this is the link to the webcomic.

Lastly, I'm currently selling many items from my personal childhood collection in order to raise funds for a creator-owned comic book project. Please bid only anything you like, it's mostly Indiana Jones and Star Wars. If you are looking for something specific, email me direct and let me know. I'll most likely have it and be willing to part with it.

Here's the link to my eBay store. Thanks!

Shrek Comic, Conventions and other demi-god like activities

2010-03-27T07:09:00.000-07:00

Well it's been a long while since I've posted anything. Good lord! So I wanted to make sure that you guys didn't feel that I forgot about you.

So what have I been doing for the past three months? Work my ass off! hahaha

Since the last post, Ape Entertainment has hired me to work on a back-up story for the Shrek prequel novel that will be hitting the comic shops towards the end of April and chain retail stores the beginning of May (Walmart, Borders, etc). This is my first REAL published work, so please, please go out and purchase it. Any help spreading the word would be appreciate!!

In other news, PLANET ZOO, the OGN I had finished sometime ago is now being released through Ape Ent. as well and is scheduled for Nov/Dec 2010 with a bunch of other kid friendly titles. As soon as I can get an order code, please please pre-order the shit of it! hahaha

Other than that, I've been working on a project (I think I've mentioned before) with my god friend Steven Walters, we are pitching it to Ape Ent. by the end of the month. The first issue (out of 5) is just about finished.

Finally, I will attending the Boston Comic Con, April 10-11. At the moment, this is the only convention I am scheduled for. I'm hoping to hear from NYCC at some point about October. If there are any conventions you feel that I should be at, just email me directly and I will see if I can make it happen!

As always thanks again for the support! Below is one page from the Shrek project, click image to enlarge.

New Year, New Beginnings

2010-01-21T09:49:00.000-08:00

I know this is a little late for a "New Years" post. I hope everyone had an excellent holiday.

So what do I have planned for the new year?

Well let's see.....Planet Zoo is scheduled to come out in a few months. As soon as I have some details, like a release date, I'll be sure to let you guys know! At the moment, I have been working on a pitch with friend and peer Steven Walters. Currently waiting for the colorists to finish the sample pages, then it's off to a letterer. Not sure when I'll be able to post something, but I'll look into that as soon as it finds a home. Finally, I recently tested to work on Dreamworks Animation property, Shrek (the comic) which will be released through Ape Entertainment. At the moment, I'm waiting to see if I'm approved. But here's the sample I did, click image to enlarge. Enjoy!

God Compex Pin-up

2009-12-20T18:19:00.001-08:00

It's been a while and with the silly season upon us, posting artwork on the blog is last on my list. Anyways, I hope to correct that soon!

At the moment I am working with my friend, Stevn Walters, on a new mini series. Just finished the 6 page sequentials for the proposal. We are looking for a colorist to do a ONE PANEL submission and are paying (if selected) to color the entire project. We are paying a page rate. So if interested, please email me directly for a high res jpg and a non-disclosure form at skatoonprod at optonline dot net.

In other news, check out this lastest pin-up I finished tonight for my good friends John and Mike for there new Image title "God Complex" I think this is for issue #3!!! PRE ORDER NOW!!!!!!

haha...well Call of Duty:MW2 beckons! So have yourself a wonderful holiday!!

See you in the new year! Click image to enlarge.

Thundercats Revisited

2009-11-13T08:10:00.000-08:00

So not too long ago I did this sketch of Lion-o (spelling?) and was sold while I was at the Baltimore Comic Con. I really loved the way this came out, so I had the foresight to do a proper scan. So I decided to re-inked and color in illustrator and this will be the new image for my new business cards. Not that there was anything wrong with the Superman one's I have, it's just I have less than a box (250) from the original 1,00 printed and wanted to update since I have to go back to the printers for more.

Click image to enlarge. Enjoy!

Savage Birthday

2009-11-11T10:44:00.001-08:00

A friend of mine who works next door had a recently had a birthday. Drew'em up a quick Savage Dragon sketch. Click to enlarge.

Get this off my chest!

2009-10-22T14:44:00.000-07:00

So, FINALLY, I can start talking about this book that I've been working on the past 6 months! PLANET ZOO, will be out fairly soon. I don't have a specific release date yet, but I believe it's very early 2010. I will post the Diamond Previews code as soon as I have one. The 90 page graphic novel will be put out by Outlaw Entertainment, as well as a previous book that was finished 2 years ago. Which I will talked more about at a later date.

So check out the final cover that I just recently finished, click image to enlarge. I will have wrapped up the last few pages that are left by early next week. Look for near future posts with a few pages from PLANET ZOO!!!!!

Enjoy!

Not to put a damper on the fore mentioned good news. However, I have to say that the last few shows, though I always enjoy meeting fans, new and familiar alike, business has been far too slow for me. I just can't afford to travel to any convention and not make my expenses back. So, until one of these books get released, I am foregoing any conventions in the early stages of 2010. I don't know where I'll wind up as a come back. But I DO want to acknowledge and say thanks to anyone who has come by the table and purchased a book, sketchbook, or commission. Your support is extremely appreciated! Hope to see you on my return to glory with PLANET ZOO and IMAGINARY FRIENDS: SPECIAL FRIENDS UNIT. And now for some photos from Pittsburgh and Baltimore:

Heather giving you the "HA-HA I own it and you don't look".

Daredevil Cover. Soon to be an eBay auction item from Comic Art House.

Charity piece for "The Hero Initiative". Fetched a pretty penny. :)

Black Canary.

Batman love.

World's fastest cheater....lol. I love doing these anti-Superman pieces. Despite being a huge Superman nut!

On a side note, what does Rob Reilly do when he's not working hard on secretive projects of pure awesomeness? Goes to see "Steel Panther" in concert of course! These guys are hiliarious! It's an 80's metal style band with comedic lyrics. I highly recommend....

University Illustration

2009-09-26T15:56:00.000-07:00

Was hired recently by Rider University to do a T-Shirt design with their Mascot.

Click image to Enlarge.

Punisher 2 - Achoo!!!

2009-09-24T21:09:00.000-07:00

So , wow 2 Punisher commission, 2 seperate people! This one was for Nicole, she'll be picking this one up as well at Baltimore.

Click to enlarge.

Punish this!

2009-09-23T18:48:00.000-07:00

Recieved a commission request from Joshua. He'll be picking this one up at Baltimore Comic Con next month. If anyone is interested in getting a piece in advance, please email me directly. Click to enlarge.

Poster Design

2009-09-23T10:29:00.001-07:00

As usual, I don't get to do much in the ways of fun at work nor do I usually post anything from there. But here's a quick poster I did for a Poetry Slam. Concept and art by yours truely. Click image to enlarge.

Light at the end of the tunnel

2009-09-01T09:19:00.001-07:00

I know it's been a while. Though I'm still working on the final chapter of the latest book, Planet Zoo, for Outlaw Entertainment (13 pages out of 28 penciled, 4 inked) I have been busy traveling and preparing for the upcoming convention schedule.

A few weeks ago, I was able to fulfil one of my many goals in life, I visited Tokyo, Japan. I have a friend who has been living there for a few years now and since the economy had tanked, airfare was half what it was a year ago. So Mark acted as our tour guide and took us to the various sections of Tokyo, introduced me to sushi, visited Tokyo Disneyland, and climbed Mt. Fuji. I loved it there!!!

Here's a few pieces I finished recently and will have for sale on the merch section/eBay as well as traveling with me the following shows:

Pittsburgh ComicCon: 09/11 -09/13/09

Baltimore ComicCon: 10/10-10/11/09

Boston ComicCon: 10/24-10/25/09

Please excuse the scans, as always, the Pantone Markers don't look exactly as well as they do in person. Click to enlarge.

Back from a much needed Vacation

2009-07-10T09:31:00.001-07:00

So I know it's been a while since I've posted any artwork or an update. Working for a company is a totally different animal. I have to be careful about what I post since the book is still in production. However, there's light at the end of the tunnel, I'm 20 pages away from finishing this puppy and I'll see what I can do about posting some pages!

In other news, just got back from Bermuda on the 4th. I was a wonderful week of not drawing or stressing about anything. I ate good food, drank new beers and went to the beach. Look for photos shortly. Big thanks to Mike for letting us stay at his house and borrowing his mopeds. Speaking of "pups", when we got back, my family watched our dog while we were away and not more than 25 minutes after getting home from the airport. My mom called on the verge of tears, the dog ran away! Thankfully, someone found her and called me as I was on the way to look for her. She was about a 1/2 mile down the road from my mom's at a picnic. Typical Nyla, she always knows who cooking what and where.

So yesterday it was bring doggie daughter to work day, since she had a vet appointment right after. I don't normally have time to sketch anymore but did get a few quickies in since she was around and work was slow. Look for new stuff soon!

Enjoy. Click to enlarge.

Commission Bub.

2009-06-04T12:20:00.000-07:00

So I recently finished a Wolverine piece. I don;t typically get too many Marvel character requests, a lot of DC. So this was a nice change up. Here's a quick breakdown of the process.

1. Get the head down. I probably did 15 different heads, before going with this one. Other than the claws, I think Wolverines head (mask) is the most important visual aspect of the character. If you don't get this right, throw it away.

2 Get a rough idea of what the pose is gonna be. He's gotta be doing something. I hate when other artists just do a boring "i'm standing there" pose.

3. Clean it up with the inks.

4. Add Pantone markers. First put the primary color layers down, followed by gray tones for shading. The scanner at work, really doesn't compute the pantones as well as I had hoped. They look so much better in person, too bad only this gentleman will be enjoying it. Perhaps he'll put it up here.

If interested in a commission yourself, contact me via email (listed under bio). As always, click images to enlarge. Thanks!

Kuta Contest and more...

2009-05-22T11:18:00.001-07:00

So Sean "Cheeks" Galloway is having a contest. Draw his character, if he picks it, you get a statue and he'll use it for an upcoming card set. Fingers crossed!

So I started first with the head. That's most important. It's what makes the character stand out. I went with my first drawing. Pick a head any head....

Then I expanded with the body. Here's the original sketch for that.

Once I got into Adobe Illsutrator, I make changes and adjustments as I saw fit.

In other news, I tested for a kids book. Although, I won't be working on BananaTail, I had a lot of fun working on this sample piece. Not bad a for a couple of hours work.

It felt good to do a few color pieces on the MAC, it's been forever since I've done anything digitally.

And finally, the photo shoot. It went really well despite the overcast. But it actually worked to our advantage. Hired a friend of my brother, Dan, for a young guy I was really impressed at his skill level. He was quite professional and patient. Check his website, listed on the menu bar, for his online portfolio.

Other than the header here's a few other shots I'll be using for upcoming promotional material:

Not much else to tell really. As always, working hard on the 2nd chapter of the new book. I should have a few panels for you guys soon.

As always, I'm taking commissions and if interested, please email me at:

skatoonprod@optonline.net

Thanks!

Rob

GL Commission and more...

2009-05-13T20:03:00.000-07:00

So, where should I begin. I recently finished a nice Green Lantern Commission, full color, full figure, 11x17. Click image to enlarge.

In addition to that, I have a few pieces up at a local art show. I haven't done one in a long while. I doubt I'll do one again. I hate art shows really, nothing seems to sell and I always worry about the stuff being stolen. In college, I had two pieces stolen from a student show. I prefer having the work out at cons, I have the illusion of control. Anyways, here's a few quick shots.

This Saturday, I have a photo shoot setup so I'll have nice "artsy" photos for promotional use. As my good friend, Chris, told me once, everyone should have good photos of themselves. I can't argue with that. I hired a friend of my younger brother who is a photography student. He has a lot of potential and he'll get some nice experience out of this. Check out his online portfolio by clicking here.

Finally, the comic company, Outlaw Entertainment, that bought my last book (from Viper) and has hired me for the current novel just went public. You can check out their site by looking at the right side menu bar. I don't have released dates for my titles just yet, but as soon as I do I'll let you guys know.

Oh yeah, I took the lil' woman to see Wolverine last weekend. The movie wasn't as bad as people made it out to be, however, it was not very good. Terrible plot, bad CGI and WTF was up with the ending? I for one am excitied and hoping Terminator Salvation will restore my faith in sci-fi/comic genre movies. I took a half day from work just to go see it on the 21st.

Anyway, thanks for stopping by. I hope to have a few panels from the new book (Chapter 2) up shortly. Take care!

Update and eBay auctions

2009-04-29T13:50:00.001-07:00

Hey Gang,

It's been awhile and I've been busy. Working on Chapter 2 of the new Outlaw Entertainment book. Penciled about 12 pages so far. Here's some proof:

I love this shot, BAM! "Wolfman has nards!" hahaha. Believe it or not, I actually looked up photo reference since I had to draw it a few times. There's a lot of groin kicking going on, on the web.

I was re-reading a friend book, Hysteria, which is amazing by the way. GO BUY IT NOW! lol Anyways, Hawthorne does this realy cool line work on the face, thought it was great and wanted to use it for myself. It works great for a "oops I'm really embarassed at the moment" feel.

In the meantime, I've been getting a lot of questions about commission/sketches (prices etc) and then never hear back from them. I'm pretty reasonable as for as prices and ability to get things done in a timely fashion and I have a paypal account for speedy transations, so I don't know what the hold up might be...hahaha. Well at any rate, I have a few pieces up for sale on eBay:

Iron Fist

Superman

They're a steal. If they sell soon, I might just start putting up more pieces or possibly "samples" with a bid for a custom sketches.

And finally, I will have a few pieces in the local art show in Lawreneville, NJ. I'm dropping them off this Saturday and will post a final date and location.

Look for a few new posts soon.

R!

Hulk Commissions, Collect the whole set!

2009-04-10T07:58:00.000-07:00

So after returning from Boston, I received an email from a fan, Ryan. He purchased the Hulk sketch I posted the other day. He really really loved my style so he commissioned me for a whopping 9 commissions! WOO HOO! So I just finished the last one today, check em' out! Thanks Ryan for the support and I had a blast drawing these characters. I've never been asked to draw any of them before!

You can also check out his website, all hulk all the time! Click Here to go there.

Reilly, a man of our time....

2009-04-07T06:13:00.000-07:00

So I don't know if I mentioned this before but I was the subject of a news article for the University I work for. I'm use to the occasional podcast, website or student documentary project interview, where they ask you a few questions. I answer them and that's what they go with. This was a totally different experience. Thankfully, the student, Kaitlin MacRae, was someone I knew since she works next store to my office, which made the process much easier and comfortable. Though I answered questions, she turned it into a story, a very well written one and I doubt that I'll ever seen as important or intelligent again. lol.

Anyways, check out the article by clicking the image. I couldn't ask for a better promotional piece. Thanks Kaitlin!

Bean-town, Just Been-there....

2009-04-06T16:21:00.000-07:00

Well I made it to Boston and back again in one piece. Though I did nearly hit a wall doing 45 mph at 6:30 am on Thursday morning just a mere 10 minutes into the trip. That was scary, never had a car turn 90 degrees and a slide 15 20 feet on a off ramp....oxymoron? hmm....anyways, got to spend 2 days in Boston, do some site seeing and did some tourist stuff. I've never been to Boston and it was like a mini Manhattan. The subways were easy to manage (unlike Chicago, ugh!), people seemed friendly enough and the hotel I was staying at was perfect. 2 minute walk to the Charlie (subway), a meer 10 minutes from downtown and a 5 minute drive to the convention hall. Saw a few spots I recognized from one of my all time favorite movies: Boondock Saints....I know, I'm a nerd.

Here's a few photos from the trip:

As for the show, much bigger than I thought it was going to be. Good crowd, made a few new friends and fans. Here's a few sketches I was able to bang out, though I missed one or two. If anyone got a sketch but I didn't put it up, email me and I will do so ASAP! Thanks again for stopping by the table and supporting me.

Also I wanna say thanks to anyone who placed a bid on the sketchcards that were up for auction and especially those who won! You helped raise $50 for American Cancer Society. Not bad for only 3 cards and 30 minutes of my time. YAY!

American Cancer Society Auction

2009-03-30T21:06:00.000-07:00

300 Sketchcard

Superman Sketchcard

V Sketchcard

So they finally hit eBay. BID BID BID!!! Help raise money for a good cause and own a lovely Reilly Original. :)

Business Cards

2009-03-23T10:42:00.000-07:00

As I mentioned previously, I don't normally post designs that I've created at work, but I thought this one was really cool. This gentleman is a book dealer and I thought it'd be cool to have his business card look like a library checkout card. He was really pleased by the unique design and concept. Click image to enlarge.

A few more pages...

2009-03-22T16:15:00.000-07:00

These might be the last I'll be able to show you from this project. Gotta keep the rest, hush-hush. Enjoy.

In other news, I'm being interview for the university's (day-job) publication. I'll have to post a scan of the article once it's out, which should be this week. I'm hoping this will open doors for future articles will other papers. Finally, a friend reminder that I will be attending the Boston Comic Con April 4-5. Check 2 posts previous for link. Thanks!

2nd Color Sample

2009-03-18T07:20:00.000-07:00

Here's a nice page comparison from final inks to colors (by Paul Little). Click image to enlarge.

Sketchcards for Cancer Auction

2009-03-15T19:33:00.000-07:00

I just finished these tonight. Check out this site from more info. As always please click on image to enlarge. Thanks!

Colored Samples

2009-03-12T18:43:00.000-07:00

So Paul Little will be coloring the new book. I think he did an excellent job with these pages. I had very few notes. I'm really excited that this book is well on it's way. Check these out, LEAVE COMMENTS PLEASE!

Sneak Peak at New Book

2009-03-08T08:13:00.000-07:00

So I'm more than half way finished with the first chapter of the new OGN I'm working on for Outlaw Entertainment (link to website is now under where else you can find me section). I was able to post a few images as long as I don't give the story away. Here's a few to wet your appetite. Also, the merchandise section has been redesign (by your's truly) so stop by and check that out. As always, I am available to do commissions, though due to work load it may take a week or two. In addition to that I have made the new sketchbook available to purchase thru eBay click here. And finally I will be attending Boston Comic Con, April 4-5, for details visit this site. Click images to enlarge.

Logo Designs

2009-02-27T07:11:00.000-08:00

I don't typically get much creative type stuff at my day job (Graphic Designer on a college campus), the other day I was asked to do a few logo designs for a few organizations. Despite having little info on who they are and what they do, I came up with a few simple concepts and luckily they liked two of them. Logos are a tricky thing, it has to be just right. I've only designed a few in the past, but I like trying to come up with something. Check'em out.

Aftermath of NYCC

2009-02-20T13:32:00.000-08:00

Just wanted to say thanks to everyone who stopped by the table (Loyal Reilly fans & New Comers). I really appreciate the encouragement I get from you.

Despite the show being sold out, the death rattle of the economy was ever present. So thanks to everyone who purchased a sketchbook, original art or commissioned a piece. I definitely tried to give everyone bang for their buck, only $40 for one character with color and inks. Had a few companies stop by the table (DC Kids, Hasbro and various animation/video game companies). Hopefully something will come out of those brief conversations. *Fingers Crossed* Still no word yet about "The Incredibles", as soon as I know then I will pass the info along to you guys! :)

Overall I think that New York Comic Con is a sucessful show but there are many things that they still haven't learn yet:

1. Tables; have that paperwork and payments made at least 6 months before the show. I was informed that I had a table late November/early December.

2. Reconsider cost to talent especially since the economy was/is tanking: It cost a fortune for 1/2 a 6ft table and I didn't get much for the expense, other than to meet you fine folks and get to sit next to some great people (minus the old fart behind me who kept bumping into my banner all weekend. honestly I had to yell at him as if he was 5 years old)

3. Artist have a ton of crap to bring with them to a show. WE NEED ROOM! Not only to have our stuff there but to sit comfortably and be able to work (sketch). I was so cramped that I only left 3 times to use the bathroom the whole weekend.

But other than these few problems that could be easily fixed, I had a good time.

Check out these photos from the show. Thanks again for the support.

Didn't do this for anyone, I was bored on Friday for thr first few hours. I'll probably eBay it. But til then, if anyone is interested, just email.

World's sweetest Barbara Gordon.

Crack attack on Mack!

Stop, Banner-time!

2009-01-29T15:14:00.000-08:00

So here's what to look for when trying to find me in the sea that is artist alley. It arrived Tuesday, but I was out sick from work (where it was delivered) and I got to see it today. Thank goodness it looks so fantastic. I also stress about this stuff since you never know how it's gonna turn out. Thanks Dave an excellent job well done.

NYCC, Will you be there?

2009-01-27T09:37:00.000-08:00

So i finally got the freaking seating chart. I'll be in Artist Alley, Section I, Table 2.

Here's the map, in case you wanna make a mental note to visit me.

Just a friendly reminder, I will have new sketchbooks, a few canvases and will be selling some new originals, (Incredibles, etc.) You can't miss me, I have a new 7ft. vertical banner now. Hope to see you guys there.

Thanks!

R!

EDIT: NYCC is Feb. 6-8th.

New Comission Piece

2009-01-11T14:08:00.000-08:00

Hey gang,

Happy New Year. Nothing like bringing in the new year with a commission piece. Drew a fan, Josh (Han Solo)and his friend Dave (Leia).

I am currently taking request for February's New York Comic Con. I hate sitting there the first few hours with nothing to do. So if there's something specific you are looking for, please email me and I will let you know my fee (if it's more than one character). Plus, I will have the proper reference already to go.

My current rate will be $50 for one character, inked. $5 extra for grey tones, $15 for color. That's for a full body shot on 11x17 bristol.

As always, click image to enlarge and I hope to see you at the show....more details to come.

Add an AD

2008-12-21T15:43:00.000-08:00

So, as you may have seen in a previous post, I finished a short story for an anthology. If you are interested in helping us spread the word, click image below to use this advertisement for you website, blog or whatever:

Thanks!

New Sketchbook Debuting at NYCC

2008-12-09T19:55:00.000-08:00

Here's the cover, took about 8 hours of Abode Illustrator time. Final booklet size will be 8.5 x 7 (once folded, stapled and trimmed). I plan on having it in time for New York Comic Con and limited to 100. However, if you are interested in one, I can easily put one to the side and mail it out at a later date. Just drop me an email. As usual any all comments are welcome, click image to enlarge.

Cheers!

Rob

There and Back again. Dublin Comic Con

2008-12-09T19:48:00.000-08:00

Lads of War, Dave and Doc

Christopher Walken Gambit. Brilliant Request & Concept.

This old man was so drunk that he was talking and dancing with people who weren't even there. I watched this gentleman for 15 minutes straight. Obviously the highlight of our trip.

Jenna and our friends, Tommie and Vennesa

Gravity Bar located on the top of the Guinness Factory

Original mural by famous artist Fitzpatrick in the dining "hall" of Captain America's Restaurant. That's right, he decided to give up crime fighting and now owns 3 chain restaurants in Ireland. Fuck international copyright laws, right? Hm....

Legendary Irish Warrior, CUCHULAINN. Statue is a tribute to those who died in the revolution of 1916.

Incredi-Page

2008-11-19T13:35:00.000-08:00

So here's one of three sample pages that I did for mystery comic company. I'd mention the name, but I don't want to get in trouble. Please click to enlarge image, and leave a comment. Thanks!

Anthology Pages

2008-11-12T14:55:00.000-08:00

So in addition to "The Incredibles" samples, I also worked on a 7 page short story for an anthology spear headed by friends. I did this entire story in illustrator. I tried some new things, and found them to work just fine. Look for this (hopefully) out under Image's falgship. Click to enlarge.

Don't forget, I'll be at the Dublin City (Ireland) Comic Con next week. Those are attending, please stop by and say hello. I'll have a few new things with me. :) Thanks!

Incredible Opportunity

2008-11-12T14:49:00.000-08:00

Wow, I've been super swamped. Below are a few images I've been working on. A friend of mine passed my name along to a certain comic studio and they had recently acquired the rights to do Pixar's "The Incredibles" comics. I can't think of a better project to test for that utlizes my talents. I absolutely love this movie/property. Brad Bird's storytelling style is a huge influence on my work. So I was thrilled when asked to work up some samples. Here are the spot illustrations I did, and I'm currently working on 3 pages of sequentials. Keep your fingers crossed!

Dublin Bound

2008-10-04T20:40:00.001-07:00

Well I know its been a while.

I will be attending the Dublin City Comic Con in Ireland in November. I worked on a proposal that didn't seem to work out. Just one of those things, no biggie. However I am working on a 7 page story for an anthology with friend and writer Jeff Brown, soon to be working on another short story for an anthology and developing 3 projects with my friends and peers, Steven Walters, M. Sean McManus, and Chris Moreno. All porjects are amazing and have revived me artistically.

Here's a few images to keep you interested. First is a Capt. America I finished as part of a series in order to lure some Marvel licensing work. Second is a pin-up I did for my Euro (Irish) friend Tommie Kelly for his debut comic Road Crew. It's seriuosly finally. You can find it on the internet as a online comic. Done in the classic newspaper funnies outline. I laughed my ass off! Check it out at

Enjoy!

Marching on the steps of DC (Comics)

2008-08-25T12:47:00.000-07:00

So last week, I had a meeting with one of the editors over at DC Comics to pitch a book as well as to try a get some work (art) in their licensing department and kids division. I got a very positive response to my art style and was told that the few things I left behind would be passed along to the AD (Art Director). Hopefully this is the light at the end of the tunnel and yours truly can finally call himself a working Artist. Wish me luck!

On the flip side, I'm finalizing a proposal for Disney's new comic book company, Kingdom Comics. I'll see if I can post at least a page or two from that once the finished product is in the right person's hands and the ball is rolling.

Other than that, I'm planning to visit Ireland again in November for the Dublin City ComicCon. I was told that a table would be there waiting for me if I was interested and of course, how could I resist!

Unfortunately, no Baltimore ComicCon for me this year, despite being there the last 3 years in a row. Wasn't able to afford such a trip.

Look for future updates soon and hopefully I can keep them a little more frequent than recently. Thanks!

Savage Raygun

2008-07-31T21:31:00.000-07:00

I've been in a slump for sometime. Haven't been too motivated to work. So I decided to jumpstart my interests. I did this piece for my friend, Rich Woodall. He's been talking about this GD book for at least 3 or 4 years by now. I hope that it motivates him to finish the project. I had a lot of fun working on this one. I wanted to try some new stuff out. Click to enlarge.

Beyond Kingdom

2008-07-14T19:13:00.000-07:00

My friend Mike advised me to post these images. I wanted to wait but he has never steered my wrong. I was putting together a proposal for DC Comics, an elseworld series only to find out that they don't do those anymore. CRAP! Right?!@ I know. But here's a few illustrations for your viewing pleasure.

New Info, no Images...

2008-07-13T17:27:00.001-07:00

Hey Guys,

It's been sometime since I've posted anything new. Unfortunately all the projects that I am currently working on are in development stages and have to be kept under wraps. I'll try to have something, image-wise, up soon. Other than that, I closed down the eBay store, but you can still get merch thru my art rep. The link is just to the right of this posting. In addition, I will not be able to attend San Diego Comic Con as originally planned. I may possibly be at Baltimore Comic Con. When I have something new to post or new info I will let you know. Thanks for the support and interest! Thanks!

Reilly

Gods at War

2008-06-17T19:39:00.000-07:00

Click to enlarge.

Latest and Greatest

2008-06-15T19:25:00.000-07:00

First here's a little taste of a new image I did for sale via my rep. Click to enlarge.

Secondly, I know it's been sometime since my last posting, so here's some news. I started working on the secret project with my friend Sean McManus. I'm currently finishing up work on a DC Comic proposal. And finally, I've started talks with another writer on a pre-existing project. So I might be able to quit my 9 to 5 soul crushing job and draw full-time, but I wouldn't hold my breathe.

I was recently at MoCCA helping to raise funds for the museum by donating my time and sketching ability. Unfortunately I left just before people stopped by to lend their support but was able to crank out a few nice images for auction.

If anyone is attending the Heroes Comic Con this weekend. I will be there as always with my art, prints and books, however I will be sans canvases due to air travel. Though they are available thru my rep, just use the link!

That's all the news I have for tyhe time being, keep checking in as much as you can! Thanks again for all your support!

Rob!

Cover Perhaps(anauts)

2008-05-10T11:09:00.000-07:00

Did this image for a potential pin-up (perhaps a cover?, maybe? I hope :) ) for the Image title, "The Perhapanauts". I love this book and Craig Rousseau's artwork is outstanding. Hope he likes this, and uh, you guys too. Click image to enlarge.

Pittsburgh Comic Con Pt. 2

2008-05-04T15:51:00.000-07:00

New Illustrator Image

2008-05-03T07:19:00.001-07:00

So it's been awhile since I've drawn something that I really loved and felt the need to plug it into illustrator. Here's a nice little labor of love, only 2 hours on the MAC. Hope you enjoy it, kept it simple. Click to enlarge. :)

Pittsburgh Comic Con Pt.1

2008-04-28T19:35:00.000-07:00

Just a brief recap. Left for Pittsburgh Thursday night. Got a $127 speeding ticket. Made news friends. Donated one Kingdom Come Canvas, raising $300 for the "Make a Wish" Foundation. Participated in the Quick Sketch again (all 3 days) for the CBDLF. Here's a few new images that came out of that show. They'll be available for purchase soon.

Oh and did I mention I have an art rep now? NO?! Well I do. I just added the link under "Purchase Goods". Check me out there. If all goes well I'll be doing away with the eBay store.

Click images to enlarge.

New York Comic Con

2008-04-21T20:38:00.000-07:00

Thanks to all that stop by the table and said hello. I was sooooooo busy, I honestly had to turn away a few at the end of Sunday since I was tired and whipped out from sketching my brains out. If you don't receive an updated email and signed up for my mailing list, I just couldn't read your handwriting. Here are a few photos from the show. Click image to enlarge. Thanks!

Here's a portrait of Con Patron, Beero (spelling?) preventing the tragedy of Titantic. This was on request and I loved the idea. I hope he comes up with some more and asks me to do another commission for him! hahaha, brilliant!

These lads crossed the pond (from Ireland) just see yours truly...well maybe not but they were really happy with their Barney conquering NYC sketch. A gift for MrBarney for momentarily putting down a beer and organizing the trip to the states. They're good shits and I hope to see them again well before I make my way back to Dublin for another show! Good to see you MIC BASTARDS again! "One Ireland!"

This was most of my view of the convention.

After 3 days of sketching my brain was mush!

Kingdom Come Canvases!

2008-04-10T15:14:00.000-07:00

Yes, as promised! I now have available the Kingdom Come Canvas. They are limited edition (100), all hand signed and numbered. The finished size is 16 x 20. Once sprayed and stretched, it looks like a f**king painting. It's beautiful! Anyways, here are a few quick shots, please keep in mind that my camera isn't the greatest but the colors are very much like the original digital image! You can purchase them through my eBay store by clicking the link. Also, I'm pricing them up stretched with an additional cost to be added if you desire. Why? It'll be much easier, cheaper, and safer to mail it to you rolled up in a tube. Plus you can easily get it strech onto the wooden struts at your local frame shop. Which will be considerably less than what I will charge to do it. AS mentioned earlier, I will be at next weekend's New York Comic Con, so these puppies will be available there. Save some $$ on shipping at pick yours up then! Click image to enlarge.

Kingdom Come Canvas eBay auction

Unstretched:

Stretched:

Original Digital File:

Communist Batman

2008-04-09T15:02:00.000-07:00

Inspired by one of my favorite DC Comic's, Red Son: Superman. Click link to purchase original piece. Click image to enlarge. Thanks!

Comrade Batman eBay auction

FREAKAZOID!

2008-04-06T20:20:00.000-07:00

A fond memory for this character and show. It can now be yours, visit the link below to purchase this original piece thru eBay! Click image to enlarge. Thanks!

Freakazoid eBay auction

Wolverine Slash-fest!

2008-04-06T07:59:00.001-07:00

Just completed this piece at 3 this morning. You can own this kick ass piece by clicking the link below and as always kick image to enlarge. Thanks!

Wolverine eBay auction