Or Pencils and Other Pointy Things…
RECLAIMING THE BLADE
While it’s clear that swords are nasty sharp pointy things designed exclusively for poking holes in people when it’s not lopping bits off them, they are nonetheless an intergral part of our cultural heritage.
I don’t consider myself an expert on anything much, so I was quite surprised when a company called Galatia Films got in touch and asked if I would do a little filmed interview for a production called “Reclaiming the Blade”.
“Never!” I cried, “not even if you poke holes in me and lop bits off!”
I didn’t really say that, I cautiously replied that it sounded very interesting and made sure I had some clean shirts ironed just in case.
As it turns out, the film is narrated by John Rhys-Davis, and has interviews with all manner of famous people who fiddle around (carefully) with sharp pointy things.
With folks like Peter Johnsson, Bob Anderson, John Waller and others participating, not to mention the likes of the Royal Armouries and the Weta Workshop, it looks like a rich program.
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IDEACITY ON LINE
With the kind permission of IdeaCity, Dom and I are extremely pleased to put the first-ever video on the site. Something about pencils…
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“AND THE NAME IS…?”
Every time I’m signing things, after the initial hello and the business of getting acquainted, even briefly, I of course ask, pen(cil) poised promisingly over the book/poster/whatever “And this is for…?”. (I have yet to sign “For Me”, which is a surprisingly common answer, but one day I swear I will… and in indelible ink too.) When the person answers “Oh just a signature.” I then ask “For e-Bay then?”. This is met by sincere protestations and justifications regarding hesitations – which dear aunt or cousin to give it to and that kind of thing. Being a trustworthy soul, I sign.
However, Mr. Wesellanythingcanada, whom I remember very well, was definitely a businessman. And a frequent patron of e-Bay. Those hours spent in line were an investment.
“This beautiful print of John Howe’s work is entitled A Song For Arbonne and has been hand-signed in silver ink by the renowned illustrator. John Howe is well-known for his work on Lord of the Rings, immensely helping with the blockbuster trilogy. This would look perfect framed in your home or office! John Howe’s autographs are not easy to find as he does not do many signings and he has stopped signing through the mail. Don’t miss your chance to pick this up!”
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“Here is a picture of John signing the poster for me. It may be included at an additional cost.”
How sweet, thought I at the time, he is taking pictures to immortalize the moment. It should have been “commercialize the moment”.
Oh well, I guess that favorite aunt wanted a painting of flowers instead…
IN THE STUDIO
The studio was a little crowded for a couple of days last week, with a photographer and one of the editors of the Fantasy Art Workshop book here to take photos for the project. I did actually get more work done than I usually do, as I spent many hours virtually shackled to my table for several photos. Given that one can only actually pretend to work for a relatively short while, I found myself diligently watercolouring away with much more stamina and application than I usually manage. In fact, I got so much done, I’ve asked them back next week. No, I haven’t, but it was very constructive and good fun.
