Episode 41 :: Start Something You Can Finish

Tue, 9 Mar 2010 00:45:05 -0800

IN THIS EPISODE ::

“Projects are the new resumes.” -Seth Godin

I suggest an approach for starting your own do-it-yourself project and challenge you to finish it. I also provide some practical advice for quit-proofing your project.

Ctrl-click (Mac) or right-click (PC) here to download the file.

AWESOME LINKS ::

Ghettomation
Jim Lujan
Ed Li
The Concept Design Academy
Funky Abstract Characters

If you have iTunes installed on your computer, you can follow THIS LINK to the iTunes store and leave positive feedback in the “Customer Review” section.

The music heard on Chris Oatley’s ArtCast is provided by Storybook Steve and Kangaralien.

ArtCast Special #1 :: Character Design: Classic Literature/ Classic Horror Mash-Up Entries

Wed, 17 Feb 2010 23:29:42 -0800

IN THIS EPISODE ::

The following character designs were generated by members of the art community at ChrisOatley.com

The challenge was to take a character from a classic horror film and
one from classic literature and blend them into a single character.

Thanks to all of the artists that participated for being so bold. You inspire me.

I am hopeful that this ArtCast Special is the first of many explorations in pursuit of artistic community.

:: ctrl-click (Mac) or right-click (PC) here to download the file ::

AWESOME LINKS ::

Call the ArtCast Listener Line

Chris Oatley On Twitter

If you have iTunes installed on your computer, you can follow THIS LINK to the iTunes store and leave positive feedback in the “Customer Review” section.

The music heard on Chris Oatley’s ArtCast is provided by Storybook Steve and Kangaralien.

New Blogs or Podcasts at ChrisOatley.com EVERY MONDAY!

Episode 40 :: Artists & The Web P3 :: Why You Should Start Your Own Podcast

Mon, 8 Feb 2010 22:31:45 -0800

IN THIS EPISODE ::

I build a case for why artists should just embrace the internet and begin blogging, podcasting, live streaming and contributing to online art communities.

I also give a brief outline of the simplest method for launching your own podcast.

The Feb/ March issue (#54) of ImagineFX Magazine will contain a short interview with me. It is likely that some of my art will also appear in the issue. (The issue hits shelves Feb 9th in the UK and 2-3 weeks later in the states.)

Ctrl-click (Mac) or right-click (PC) here to download the file.

AWESOME LINKS ::

The Visual Artist Podcast Network
The ArtCast Network
Dani Jones
Escape From Illustration Island
deviantArt
ConceptArt.org
ImagineFX Magazine

If you have iTunes installed on your computer, you can follow THIS LINK to the iTunes store and leave positive feedback in the “Customer Review” section.

The music heard on Chris Oatley’s ArtCast is provided by Storybook Steve and Kangaralien.

Episode 39 :: Wizard Of Oz Character Design Tutorial :: Cowardly Lion Head Study

Mon, 1 Feb 2010 17:14:22 -0800

IN THIS EPISODE ::

I respond to a number of requests that I post more process images for works-in-progress.

The episode contains a time-lapse recording of a simple head-study, a really fun and spontaneous stage of my own character design process. Since painting is a strength of my own, I almost always employ that skill when designing for any medium: movies, tv, comics, video games, etc...

Here, I demonstrate how by utilizing both drawing and painting methods, I can bring about a stronger final image than if I had only relied on a single method.

I also address how character designers can avoid cliches when designing lions or dogs or aliens or any other character types that have appeared many times in stories past.

You can see a higher resolution version of this finished painting in my portfolio.

Ctrl-click (Mac) or right-click (PC) here to download the file.

AWESOME LINKS ::

Chris Oatley’s Wild Tin Man
Chris Oatley’s Quiet Tin Man
Chris Oatley’s Fall Woods Tin Man
Chris Oatley’s ‘Scare Crow Meets Toto’

Humberto Ramos

If you have iTunes installed on your computer, you can follow THIS LINK to the iTunes store and leave positive feedback in the “Customer Review” section.

The music heard on Chris Oatley’s ArtCast is provided by Storybook Steve and Kangaralien.

Episode 38 :: Searching For Synthesis & Gestural Environments

Mon, 25 Jan 2010 13:48:05 -0800

IN THIS EPISODE ::

In 2009, I learned more about art than perhaps any other year of my life.

I met and received critiques from most of my living art heroes and I explored and struggled with some very specific stylistic choices, attempting to be as critical of my own work as possible.

2010 will, no doubt, be another year of visual exploration and struggle, but said exploration and struggle will be informed and focused by the experiential education I had in 2009.

One of my current pursuits is to produce a series of environment drawings with a gestural feel. I explain this concept in detail in the episode.

I also give a little teaser about some of the things I have in store for The ArtCast in 2010.

The Feb/ March issue (#54) of ImagineFX Magazine will contain a short interview with me. It is likely that some of my art will also appear in the issue. (The issue hits shelves Feb 9th in the UK and 2-3 weeks later in the states.)

Ctrl-click (Mac) or right-click (PC) here to download the file.

AWESOME LINKS ::
ImagineFX Magazine
The LOST Revelations Podcast
Chris Oatley’s Forest Demon
The Dreamer
The Dreamer Issue #4 Cover by Chris Oatley
Chris Oatley’s Wild Tin Man
Art & Story

If you have iTunes installed on your computer, you can follow THIS LINK to the iTunes store and leave positive feedback in the “Customer Review” section.

The music heard on Chris Oatley’s ArtCast is provided by Storybook Steve and Kangaralien.

Episode 37 :: Digital Painting Tutorial :: Hulk Vs. Wolverine (part 6)

Mon, 18 Jan 2010 20:35:17 -0800

IN THIS EPISODE ::

I demonstrate how to paint stylized, graphic hair and more naturalistic hair. I give advice on how to make your art tools work for you by making more sophisticated stylistic and technical decisions.

I issue a challenge to comics colorists and illustrators to consider bold, intense color palettes as one option among many while I advocate for the unsung heroes of visual emotion, neutrals.

AWESOME LINKS ::

Christophe Vacher

Call the ArtCast Listener Line

Chris Oatley On Twitter

If you have iTunes installed on your computer, you can follow THIS LINK to the iTunes store and leave positive feedback in the “Customer Review” section.

The music heard on Chris Oatley’s ArtCast is provided by Storybook Steve and Kangaralien.

Ctrl-click (Mac) or right-click (PC) here to download the file.

Episode 36 :: Digital Painting Tutorial :: Hulk Vs. Wolverine (part 5)

Mon, 11 Jan 2010 12:05:05 -0800

IN THIS EPISODE ::

I talk about the problems and challenges that I met while creating this illustration, the power of getting a good ‘performance’ out of your illustrated characters and I demonstrate how to paint stylized hair.

AWESOME LINKS ::

Call the ArtCast Listener Line

Chris Oatley On Twitter

If you have iTunes installed on your computer, you can follow THIS LINK to the iTunes store and leave positive feedback in the “Customer Review” section.

The music heard on Chris Oatley’s ArtCast is provided by Storybook Steve and Kangaralien.

Ctrl-click (Mac) or right-click (PC) here to download the file.

Episode 35 :: A Look Back At 2009 With Ward Jenkins, Kevin Cross & Josh Kemble

Mon, 4 Jan 2010 12:09:30 -0800

IN THIS EPISODE ::

My wife and dog and I traveled to Portland, Oregon for the holidays. It was awesome.

During my trip to that awesome city, I was able to meet my awesome friends Kevin Cross and Josh Kemble (illustrators and hosts of Big Illustration Party Time) and an awesome artist whose work (and blog) I have long-admired, Ward Jenkins.

I recorded an awesome conversation between the four of us about our failures, victories and lessons of 2009. We also went on a couple of awesome tangents: one about professionalism and one about Ward’s new children’s book and his illustration technique.

Ctrl-click (Mac) or right-click (PC) here to download the file.

AWESOME LINKS ::

Ward Jenkins
Ward’s New Children’s Book (on Amazon.com)
Kevin Cross
Monkey Mod
Josh Kemble
Chris Oatley’s Forest Demon
Chris Oatley’s Wild Tin Man
Escape From Illustration Island
Art & Story

If you have iTunes installed on your computer, you can follow THIS LINK to the iTunes store and leave positive feedback in the “Customer Review” section.

The music heard on Chris Oatley’s ArtCast is provided by Storybook Steve and Kangaralien.

Episode 34 :: Digital Painting Tutorial :: Wookie Rage (part 3)

Mon, 21 Dec 2009 21:12:46 -0800

Continued from Part Two.

I’ve decided to begin a new series of tutorials to align with the “Wookie Rage” contest that is happening here on the site.

All you have to do is enter The Wookie Rage Poll, send me an email telling me that you entered the contest and you will have the chance to win one of my original sketches... ...one that I did for this painting.

If you have iTunes installed on your computer, you can follow THIS LINK to the iTunes store and leave positive feedback in the “Customer Review” section.

The music heard on Chris Oatley’s ArtCast is provided by Storybook Steve and Kangaralien.

Ctrl-click (Mac) or right-click (PC) here to download the file.

Episode 33 :: Digital Painting Tutorial :: Wookie Rage (part 2)

Mon, 30 Nov 2009 00:55:43 -0800

Continued from Part One.

I’ve decided to begin a new series of tutorials to align with the “Wookie Rage” contest that is happening here on the site.

All you have to do is enter The Wookie Rage Poll, send me an email telling me that you entered the contest and you will have the chance to win one of my original sketches... ...one that I did for this painting.

If you have iTunes installed on your computer, you can follow THIS LINK to the iTunes store and leave positive feedback in the “Customer Review” section.

The music heard on Chris Oatley’s ArtCast is provided by Storybook Steve and Kangaralien.

Ctrl-click (Mac) or right-click (PC) here to download the file.

ArtCast Assignment #1 :: Character Design: Classic Literature/ Classic Horror Mash-Up

Mon, 16 Nov 2009 12:23:09 -0800

IN THIS EPISODE ::

Community has been building around the ArtCast for over a year now. I think we are ready to take it to the next level by engaging in community art assignments and critiques.

First, a character design assignment... ...a Classic Literature/ Classic Horror Mash-Up. Listen to the audio for details and submission guidelines.

DUE: JANUARY 2, 2010

:: ctrl-click (Mac) or right-click (PC) here to download the file ::

AWESOME LINKS ::

Call the ArtCast Listener Line

Chris Oatley On Twitter

If you have iTunes installed on your computer, you can follow THIS LINK to the iTunes store and leave positive feedback in the “Customer Review” section.

The music heard on Chris Oatley’s ArtCast is provided by Storybook Steve and Kangaralien.

New Blogs or Podcasts at ChrisOatley.com EVERY MONDAY!

Episode 32 :: Listener Voicemail: Studio Vs. Personal Projects; The Apple Tablet and Thoughts On The Future Of Comics

Mon, 9 Nov 2009 13:02:16 -0800

IN THIS EPISODE ::

Its a hodgepodge of ideas rambled off in response to Voicemail left by Podcast Personalities Jim Lujan and Jerzy Drozd.

:: ctrl-click (Mac) or right-click (PC) here to download the file ::

AWESOME LINKS ::

Ghettomation

Jim Lujan

Jerzy Drozd

Sugary Serials

Branded In The 80’s

Call the ArtCast Listener Line

Chris Oatley On Twitter

If you have iTunes installed on your computer, you can follow THIS LINK to the iTunes store and leave positive feedback in the “Customer Review” section.

The music heard on Chris Oatley’s ArtCast is provided by Storybook Steve and Kangaralien.

New Blogs or Podcasts at ChrisOatley.com EVERY MONDAY!

Episode 31 :: Interview With Tina Price: Disney Character Designer, President & Founder Of ‘The Creative Talent Network’

Mon, 26 Oct 2009 12:42:29 -0700

IN THIS EPISODE ::

Tina Price had a 20-plus year career as a Disney artist. She has worked with some of the most famous living animation artists including, Ron Clements, John Musker and Don Bluth.

She also contributed to the computer-generated components of breakthrough films like The Rescuers Down Under, Oliver And Company, and Aladdin where she worked on the Magic Carpet character.

In 2004, she founded The Creative Talent Network which now features portfolios from over 350 top-talent animation industry artists.

Tina and I discuss her career, the upcoming CTN-X and the future of the animation industry.

THE MOST ANTICIPATED ANIMATION TRADE SHOW ON THE PLANET
COMES TO THE CITY OF BURBANK NOVEMBER 20-22nd::

This is the ONLY place where you’ll meet so many animation industry icons under one roof. Make contacts, learn new techniques and meet with recruiters.

Hurry and join in on the action where “X” marks the spot to connect with renowned artists from around the world. Register online or call today (800) 604-2238.

CTN-X takes place at the Burbank Marriott Convention Center with ample discounted parking and is conveniently located across the street from the Burbank Airport and Amtrak Station.

Early bird tickets are $25 for the exhibit floor only, $50 for a day pass and $125 for a 3-day pass.

Discounted rates are available to students, active military and professional industry organizations. Space is strictly limited at this groundbreaking event.

For more information and to register, please visit: www.ctnanimationexpo.com or call, (800) 604-2238 and mention the special member discount code to obtain an extra 10% off any 1day or 3day professional/general passport.

THE DISCOUNT CODE FOR CHRIS OATLEY’S ARTCAST LISTENERS IS: OATLX09

:: ctrl-click (Mac) or right-click (PC) here to download the file ::

AWESOME LINKS ::

CTN-X

The Creative Talent Network

Tina Price’s IMDB Page

Chris Oatley’s Profile on The Creative Talent Network

Call the ArtCast Listener Line

Chris Oatley On Twitter

If you have iTunes installed on your computer, you can follow THIS LINK to the iTunes store and leave positive feedback in the “Customer Review” section.

The music heard on Chris Oatley’s ArtCast is provided by Storybook Steve and Kangaralien.

New Blogs or Podcasts at ChrisOatley.com EVERY MONDAY!

Episode 30 :: Interview With Disney Pre-Visualization Supervisor: John Bermudes

Mon, 19 Oct 2009 10:47:50 -0700

IN THIS EPISODE ::

John Bermudes was a successful effects animator for hand-drawn feature films including The Iron Giant before pursuing his current creative calling as a Pre-Visualization Supervisor at Disney.

John and I discuss all aspects of his career, the blending of the artistic and the technical during the making of an animated film and he shares some great advice for people who are interested in pursuing a career in animation.

:: ctrl-click (Mac) or right-click (PC) here to download the file ::

AWESOME LINKS ::

John Bermudes’ IMDB Page

Call the ArtCast Listener Line

Chris Oatley On Twitter

Ryan Carlson

If you have iTunes installed on your computer, you can follow THIS LINK to the iTunes store and leave positive feedback in the “Customer Review” section.

The music heard on Chris Oatley’s ArtCast is provided by Storybook Steve and Kangaralien.

New Blogs or Podcasts at ChrisOatley.com EVERY MONDAY!

Episode 29 :: Artists And The Web (part 2) :: Interview With Thomas James of Escape From Illustration Island

Sun, 4 Oct 2009 14:26:44 -0700

IN THIS EPISODE ::
The future has arrived, for better or worse. Artists and storytellers are facing a fundamental redefinition of their craft, not to mention a fundamental redefinition of themselves.

The industries that have traditionally supported, distributed and promoted those crafts have proved less resilient than we once thought and the audience's appetite for the traditional incarnations of those crafts has evolved. However, that appetite is not gone nor is it satisfied. It remains insatiable as ever.

But all bets are off. The tools and techniques are changing. There are almost no preexisting models of success. "The box" is now a cloud.

Is this a future of intimidating uncertainty or one of infinite possibility? I believe that it is incumbent upon us, the creators, to decide. It is my opinion that for the artist and the storyteller, the web world is just another blank page. And really, is the blank page so intimidating?

Join me for an inspirational, fear-destroying, artistically-empowering series that I have titled, simply, “Artists and The Web.’

And now, for the second installment, I am honored to present to you the curator of all things illustration on the internet, Thomas James of The Escape From Illustration Island Podcast.

Ctrl-click (Mac) or right-click (PC) here to download the file.

LINKS ::
Interview With Chris Oatley on Escape From Illustration Island

Artists And The Web (part 1)

Thomas James

The Escape From Illustration Island Podcast

If you have iTunes installed on your computer, you can follow THIS LINK to the iTunes store and leave positive feedback in the “Customer Review” section.

The music heard on Chris Oatley’s ArtCast is provided by Storybook Steve and Kangaralien.

New Blogs or Podcasts at ChrisOatley.com EVERY MONDAY!

Episode 28 :: Demystifying The Good Idea

Sun, 27 Sep 2009 21:15:15 -0700

IN THIS EPISODE ::

I share a revolutionary philosophy that “ideas are a dime-a-dozen” ...and that’s a wonderful thing. I explain how we can unlock ourselves from the paralyzing fear of idea-theft and unhealthy obsession over our ‘one good idea’ by accepting two truths. 1.) Our ideas are not as precious as we think and 2.) Good ideas CAN be contrived.

I also share some practical advice for how we can begin exploring ideas and generating new ones, both visual and narrative.

:: ctrl-click (Mac) or right-click (PC) here to download the file ::

AWESOME LINKS ::

Call the ArtCast Listener Line

Chris Oatley On Twitter

If you have iTunes installed on your computer, you can follow THIS LINK to the iTunes store and leave positive feedback in the “Customer Review” section.

The music heard on Chris Oatley’s ArtCast is provided by Storybook Steve and Kangaralien.

New Blogs or Podcasts at ChrisOatley.com EVERY MONDAY!

Episode 27 :: Interview With ‘9’ Art Director Christophe Vacher

Sun, 20 Sep 2009 15:51:32 -0700

IN THIS EPISODE ::

Christophe Vacher’s Art Direction on Shane Acker’s ‘9’ (produced by Tim Burton) was a driving force in what was destined to be a visual breakthrough for mainstream american animation.

In this very personal interview, Christophe tells the story of his art life. He gives some thought-provoking insights into his work for Walt Disney Feature Animation (including The Hunchback of Notre Dame, Hercules and Dinosaur) and his time at the Brizzi Studio in France.

He shares some advice about how to become a great artist, a great art director and how to navigate within the american animation industry.

Both of us talk extensively about the making of ‘9,’ providing insight that will, for many people, enhance the experience of watching and working on every kind of animated film.

:: ctrl-click (Mac) or right-click (PC) here to download the file ::

AWESOME LINKS ::

Christophe Vacher

Christophe Vacher’s IMDB Page

Call the ArtCast Listener Line

Chris Oatley On Twitter

If you have iTunes installed on your computer, you can follow THIS LINK to the iTunes store and leave positive feedback in the “Customer Review” section.

The music heard on Chris Oatley’s ArtCast is provided by Storybook Steve and Kangaralien.

New Blogs or Podcasts at ChrisOatley.com EVERY MONDAY!

Below (site only): Watch the trailer for Shane Acker’s ‘9’ ::

Episode 26 :: Career Course Correction & ‘The Skillful Huntsman’ Book Review

Mon, 14 Sep 2009 13:18:41 -0700

IN THIS EPISODE ::

Illustrator and friend David Wilson joins me for a discussion about how he is changing the course of his career in art.

We also review the amazing book entitled ‘The Skillful Huntsman’ which is one of the best books about visual development ever published.

:: ctrl-click (Mac) or right-click (PC) here to download the file ::

AWESOME LINKS ::

Preview and Buy ‘The Skillful Huntsman’

David Wilson Illustration

Animation Mentor

Call the ArtCast Listener Line

Chris Oatley On Twitter

If you have iTunes installed on your computer, you can follow THIS LINK to the iTunes store and leave positive feedback in the “Customer Review” section.

The music heard on Chris Oatley’s ArtCast is provided by Storybook Steve and Kangaralien.

New Blogs or Podcasts at ChrisOatley.com EVERY MONDAY!

Episode 25 :: Developing An Animated TV Show Pitch (part 2)

Mon, 7 Sep 2009 00:34:44 -0700

IN THIS EPISODE ::

I explain my own process for developing pitches for animated TV shows.

I raise one very important question that we all need to ask ourselves as we develop pitches for any medium and I talk about how I think that character turnarounds are overrated.

I also recommend a few books that cover the development and pitching of animated TV shows.

:: ctrl-click (Mac) or right-click (PC) here to download the file ::

AWESOME LINKS ::

Required Reading

Call the ArtCast Listener Line

Chris Oatley On Twitter

James Dalessandro

Aniboom

Mumford & Sons

Raw Rip

If you have iTunes installed on your computer, you can follow THIS LINK to the iTunes store and leave positive feedback in the “Customer Review” section.

The music heard on Chris Oatley’s ArtCast is provided by Storybook Steve and Kangaralien.

New Blogs or Podcasts at ChrisOatley.com EVERY MONDAY!

Episode 24 :: Developing An Animated TV Show Pitch (part 1)

Mon, 31 Aug 2009 09:51:58 -0700

IN THIS EPISODE ::

I explain my own process for developing pitches for animated TV shows. I also share a few insights about what I value in collaborators.

:: ctrl-click (Mac) or right-click (PC) here to download the file ::

AWESOME LINKS ::

Call the ArtCast Listener Line

Chris Oatley On Twitter

Big Illustration Party Time

Mumford & Sons

Raw Rip

If you have iTunes installed on your computer, you can follow THIS LINK to the iTunes store and leave positive feedback in the “Customer Review” section.

The music heard on Chris Oatley’s ArtCast is provided by Storybook Steve and Kangaralien.

New Blogs or Podcasts at ChrisOatley.com EVERY MONDAY!

Episode 23 :: Character Design Tutorial :: Alien Janitor (part 2)

Mon, 24 Aug 2009 08:18:32 -0700

IN THIS EPISODE ::

...continued from Part One.

In the second half of this tutorial, I respond to a question that was sent in by a viewer concerning the kind of brush that I used in the first half.

I talk a little bit about the differences between digital painting and traditional painting and how I like to embrace the “digital” part of digital painting while still maintaining the essence of what I love about traditional media like oil, acrylic, pastel and watercolor.

Lastly, I provide a couple of easy steps to help you re-create the brush that I use for most of this episode and I explain the motivation behind the way I chose to “finish” this piece.

Ctrl-click (Mac) or right-click (PC) here to download the file.

LINKS ::

Daisuke Tsutsumi

John Singer Sargent

If you have iTunes installed on your computer, you can follow THIS LINK to the iTunes store and leave positive feedback in the “Customer Review” section.

The music heard on Chris Oatley’s ArtCast is provided by Storybook Steve and Kangaralien.

Episode 22 :: Baby Steps, Katzenberg’s Wisdom & Why I Don’t Want To Be A Shark ::

Mon, 3 Aug 2009 12:58:46 -0700

IN THIS EPISODE ::

With some newfound perspective gained through the experience of my father-in-law’s death, I encourage you to number your days and make them count.

Also, I encourage you to not underestimate the power of taking small steps toward your artistic goals. I share an insightful story from the time I heard Dreamworks co-founder Jeffery Katzenberg address a group of college students and I close with some comments on the dangers of moving forward all the time. ie: How not to become a ‘Shark.’

:: ctrl-click (Mac) or right-click (PC) here to download the file ::

AWESOME LINKS ::

Call the ArtCast Listener Line

Chris Oatley On Twitter

Sidebar Podcast

The Process Diary

If you have iTunes installed on your computer, you can follow THIS LINK to the iTunes store and leave positive feedback in the “Customer Review” section.

The music heard on Chris Oatley’s ArtCast is provided by Storybook Steve and Kangaralien.

New Blogs or Podcasts at ChrisOatley.com EVERY MONDAY!

Episode 21 :: Interview With Disney Technical Director Pete Kranjcevich

Sun, 19 Jul 2009 17:40:55 -0700

IN THIS EPISODE ::

An inspiring lunch time chat with Disney Technical Director Pete Kranjcevich sheds light on the entire process of making an animated feature film. Pete is both a visual artist and a technical wizard. He is sharp, eloquent and positive... ...a perfect addition to the ArtCast.

The interview is very inspiring for anyone interested in finding their own path to and through the animation industry. Furthermore, it will surely give hope to anyone who is pursuing an artistic dream of any kind.

We give further insight into the goings on at Disney and some of the technological advancements that are happening with the Disney Fairies franchise.

:: ctrl-click (Mac) or right-click (PC) here to download the file ::

AWESOME LINKS ::

Check out Pete Kranjcevich’s website.

Call the ArtCast Listener Line

Chris Oatley On Twitter

Art And Story Extreme

More talented people who worked on Tinker Bell ::
Mike Greenholt :: Barry Atkinson :: Denise Fuller :: Miguel Gil :: Brent Gordon :: Cynthia Ignacio :: Ellen Jin :: John Nevarez :: Mark Pudleiner :: Shane Zalvin

If you have iTunes installed on your computer, you can follow THIS LINK to the iTunes store and leave positive feedback in the “Customer Review” section.

The music heard on Chris Oatley’s ArtCast is provided by Storybook Steve and Kangaralien.

New Blogs or Podcasts at ChrisOatley.com EVERY MONDAY!

Episode 20 :: CollageCast Catch-All

Sun, 12 Jul 2009 23:48:40 -0700

IN THIS EPISODE ::

I have thrown together a bunch of different unrelated bits that have been recording over the past few weeks. There is an invitation to join a live community podcast where we will discuss Jim Henson’s The Dark Crystal, more explanation of my work on the Disney Fairies films, new updates on my tv show pitches and more on my vision for the future of this site and podcast.

:: ctrl-click (Mac) or right-click (PC) here to download the file ::

AWESOME LINKS ::

Call the ArtCast Listener Line

Chris Oatley On Twitter

Art And Story Extreme

Renegade Craft Fair

Outliers by Malcom Gladwell

Big Illustration Party Time

If you have iTunes installed on your computer, you can follow THIS LINK to the iTunes store and leave positive feedback in the “Customer Review” section.

The music heard on Chris Oatley’s ArtCast is provided by Storybook Steve and Kangaralien.

New Blogs or Podcasts at ChrisOatley.com EVERY MONDAY!

Episode 19 :: X-Ray Goggles And A Lunchtime Chat With Mike Greenholt

Sun, 5 Jul 2009 17:37:03 -0700

IN THIS EPISODE ::

I discuss the idea of putting on x-ray goggles to see artistic and art-career opportunities inside of the circumstances and relationships that are right in front of you.

After that, I present a lunch time chat with friend and fellow Disney artist Mike Greenholt.

We discuss his career and the many great professional and creative opportunites that have recently been presented to him.

:: ctrl-click (Mac) or right-click (PC) here to download the file ::

AWESOME LINKS ::

Check out Mike Greenholt’s website.

More talented people who worked on Tinker Bell ::
Barry Atkinson :: Denise Fuller :: Miguel Gil :: Brent Gordon :: Cynthia Ignacio :: Ellen Jin :: John Nevarez :: Mark Pudleiner :: Shane Zalvin

If you have iTunes installed on your computer, you can follow THIS LINK to the iTunes store and leave positive feedback in the “Customer Review” section.

The music heard on Chris Oatley’s ArtCast is provided by Storybook Steve and Kangaralien.

New Blogs or Podcasts at ChrisOatley.com EVERY MONDAY!

Episode 18 :: Interview With Nathan Johnson :: Composer for THE BROTHERS BLOOM and BRICK

Mon, 22 Jun 2009 09:17:17 -0700

IN THIS EPISODE ::
I first met Nathan Johnson at a dive in downtown Denver, Colorado. I arrived late to one of his concerts and when I saw him, he towered over the crowd (he’s like nine feet tall) belting melancholy lyrics while garbed in an army jacket, goggles and one of those enormous winter hats with the fur lining and the ear flaps. The huge hat, his lanky silhouette and remarkably-good posture together resembled the mic-and-stand combination into which he was singing.

Nathan’s drummer, Mike, set the head of his snare drum on fire at the end of the set. As Mike beat the snare drum, a pillar of flames would shoot up from his kit... It actually set the ceiling on fire... ...but only a little bit... ...and only for a few seconds... ...nobody was hurt... ...except Mike - who burned his own eyebrows off or something...

From day one, Nathan has been a constant encouragement to me and a fellow enthusiast-of-all-things. Like me, he NEVER doesn’t want to talk about the stuff of creativity. My interactions with him are always inspiring... How do I say it... ...Ahhh yes, Nathan has often been the drum stick to my flaming art-head.

A few years back, my wife, Angie and I boarded and fed all twelve members of Nathan’s super-group The Cinematic Underground. And that experience alone, seeing their show which defies explanation and spending time with them before and after, changed my life.

It was at that time that I realized that Nathan was destined for even greater things... ...and his stilling scores for movies like Brick and The Brothers Bloom (both written and directed by Nathan’s auteur cousin Rian Johnson) confirm.

I have the honor of sharing with you now, one of my most inspiring conversations of the year, my interview with Nathan Johnson.

OH and by the way, The Brothers Bloom is now playing in theatres everywhere. I HIGHLY reccommend you go see it. Its hilarious and contemplative and beautiful and the performances by Mark Ruffalo, Adrien Brody, Rachel Weisz and Rink Kikuchi are a joy to watch.

Ctrl-click (Mac) or right-click (PC) here to download the file.

AWESOME LINKS ::
NathanJ.com

The Brothers Bloom Blog

Download Rian Johnson’s Commentary For The Brothers Bloom

/Film Article About Nathan

The Cinematic Underground

The Cinematic Underground On YouTube

The Cinematic Underground On MySpace

Brick Official Movie Site

Download The Screenplay From Brick

NOTE: The videos mentioned in the episode are embedded below but they are only visible on ChrisOatley.com and not in the RSS Feed

If you have iTunes installed on your computer, you can follow THIS LINK to the iTunes store and leave positive feedback in the “Customer Review” section.

The music heard on Chris Oatley’s ArtCast is provided by Storybook Steve and Kangaralien.

New Blogs or Podcasts at ChrisOatley.com EVERY MONDAY!

Episode 17 :: Artists And The Web (part 1) :: Interview With Dani Jones and Paul Caggegi

Sun, 14 Jun 2009 15:24:59 -0700

IN THIS EPISODE ::
The future has arrived, for better or worse. Artists and storytellers are facing a fundamental redefinition of their craft, not to mention a fundamental redefinition of themselves.

The industries that have traditionally supported, distributed and promoted those crafts have proved less resilient than we once thought and the audience's appetite for the traditional incarnations of those crafts has evolved. However, that appetite is not gone nor is it satisfied. It remains insatiable as ever.

But all bets are off. The tools and techniques are changing. There are almost no preexisting models of success. "The box" is now a cloud.

Is this a future of intimidating uncertainty or one of infinite possibility? I believe that it is incumbent upon us, the creators, to decide. It is my opinion that for the artist and the storyteller, the web world is just another blank page. And really, is the blank page so intimidating?

Join me for an inspirational, fear-destroying, artistically-empowering series that I have titled, simply, “Artists and The Web.’

And now, for the first installment, I am honored to present to you the ubiquitous and prolific illustrator Dani Jones along with the clever and ambitious indy animation artist Paul Cageggi.

Ctrl-click (Mac) or right-click (PC) here to download the file.

LINKS ::
Dani Jones Illustration
DaniDraws.com
The Process Diary
If you have iTunes installed on your computer, you can follow THIS LINK to the iTunes store and leave positive feedback in the “Customer Review” section.

The music heard on Chris Oatley’s ArtCast is provided by Storybook Steve and Kangaralien.

New Blogs or Podcasts at ChrisOatley.com EVERY MONDAY!

Episode 16 :: Chaos In The Real World; Peace In Pixie Hollow

Mon, 8 Jun 2009 09:02:36 -0700

IN THIS EPISODE ::
Disney! Dog attacksI Photoshop Tips! I’m hiring assistants! In this episode I do a general check-in by sharing what has been going on in my life lately and I give a little bit of insight about some of the exciting interviews and community-building activities that will be happening at ChrisOatley.com in the coming year.

I also respond to some listener mail with some advice about how to manage your brushes and tools in Photoshop.

Ctrl-click (Mac) or right-click (PC) here to download the file.

LINKS ::
Steve Umbleby
Kevin Cross
Joshua Kemble
If you have iTunes installed on your computer, you can follow THIS LINK to the iTunes store and leave positive feedback in the “Customer Review” section.

The music heard on Chris Oatley’s ArtCast is provided by Storybook Steve and Kangaralien.

New Blogs or Podcasts at ChrisOatley.com EVERY MONDAY!

Episode 15 :: Interview With Rafael Rosado: Storyboard Artist for Animaniacs, Teen Titans and Venture Bros.

Mon, 25 May 2009 02:41:11 -0700

IN THIS EPISODE ::
Rafael has worked as a story artist and writer on one of the most beloved TV shows in the history of animation: Animaniacs. He has recently been boarding for TMNT, Curious George and The Venture Bros.

He is currently producing his own graphic novel for First Second Publishing.

I had the enlightening experience of interviewing him a few days ago and now, I have the joy of sharing some of his wisdom with you.

Raf is still working on his website so I will try to post some of his drawings and storyboards on my site as soon as possible.

Find me on Twitter or subscribe to my blog and podcast to receive word when that happens.

Ctrl-click (Mac) or right-click (PC) here to download the file.

LINKS ::
Rafael Rosado’s IMDB Page

Dan Root

If you have iTunes installed on your computer, you can follow THIS LINK to the iTunes store and leave positive feedback in the “Customer Review” section.

The music heard on Chris Oatley’s ArtCast is provided by Storybook Steve and Kangaralien.

Episode 14 :: Hulk Struggles, Milt Kahl & The Economic Spectre

Sun, 3 May 2009 21:00:53 -0700

IN THIS EPISODE ::
Episodes ten and eleven of this show were the most spontaneous and unproduced, but they were perhaps the most honest of all. It was those kinds of episodes that you have requested more of and so more of those you will receive.

Today I present to you yet another unprecedented episode. I want to call this new species of podcast a ‘collagecast.’ That is to say that I bought a portable digital recorder and I have been recording on-the-go, at different points throughout the week. At the end of the week, I stitched all of those files together and that is what you will hear now.

In the rest of this episode, I give a general update on my freelance and personal work, I talk about my recent struggles with the Hulk Vs. Wolverine painting, I share and experience that I had at an event that was held at The Academy Of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences in honor of Disney Animation Legend Milt Kahl and I respond to a few emails.

Ctrl-click (Mac) or right-click (PC) here to download the file.

LINKS ::
The Process Diary
John Singer Sargent Virtual Gallery
Skottie Young
Tribute To Milt Kahl
Podcast Answer Man
psdtuts.com
Photoshop Killer Tips
Imaginism Studios
Pablo Smith
Walt Stanchfield
David Wilson

If you have iTunes installed on your computer, you can follow THIS LINK to the iTunes store and leave positive feedback in the “Customer Review” section.

The music heard on Chris Oatley’s ArtCast is provided by Storybook Steve and Kangaralien.

New Blogs or Podcasts at ChrisOatley.com EVERY MONDAY!

Episode 13 :: Character Design Tutorial :: Alien Janitor (part 1)

Sun, 19 Apr 2009 20:44:39 -0700

I recently had the tremendous honor of joining my friends Kevin Cross and Joshua Kemble as a guest on their awesome podcast Big Illustration Party Time.

It is an amazing resource for anyone interested in freelance illustration.

The topic that we discussed was character design so each of us did a ‘homework assignment’ before the episode where we had to design a “hero.”

I came up with an alien janitor in cut-offs.

I did a screen capture of the entire painting and I have split that video into two parts. The first part, this episode, will be accompanied by a series of audio clips from my guest appearance on Big Illustration Party Time.

In the next part, I will go into further detail via voiceover about the process of creating and finishing this painting.

If you have iTunes installed on your computer, you can follow THIS LINK to the iTunes store and leave positive feedback in the “Customer Review” section.

The music heard on Chris Oatley’s ArtCast is provided by Storybook Steve and Kangaralien.

Ctrl-click (Mac) or right-click (PC) here to download the file.

Episode 12 :: Digital Painting Tutorial :: Wookie Rage (part 1)

Mon, 13 Apr 2009 14:36:00 -0700

So I’ve received some great feedback from you, my precious audience, and most of you have requested more digital painting tutorials like my on-going Hulk Vs. Wolverine episodes.

So, I’ve decided to begin a new series of tutorials to align with the “Wookie Rage” contest that is happening here on the site.

All you have to do is enter The Wookie Rage Poll, send me an email telling me that you entered the contest and you will have the chance to win one of my original sketches... ...one that I did for this painting.

...and don’t worry, Hulk and Wolverine is not going away. I will continue to make those episodes as well. I just want to get a little more variety happening here on the show.

If you have iTunes installed on your computer, you can follow THIS LINK to the iTunes store and leave positive feedback in the “Customer Review” section.

The music heard on Chris Oatley’s ArtCast is provided by Storybook Steve and Kangaralien.

Ctrl-click (Mac) or right-click (PC) here to download the file.

Episode 11 :: Escape From Art Jail

Sun, 5 Apr 2009 18:26:46 -0700

IN THIS EPISODE ::
I spent most of the last episode answering some of the great questions that I have received from you, my dear listeners. And I thank you again for sending them in.
Something that has become apparent in my conversations with you is that almost everyone feels like they are in a period of transition, artistically. But some of you feel stuck. Some of you feel locked-up.
Whether that feeling is there because of economic reasons, because of an inner-frustration with your perceived level of skill or because you hate your day job, you maintain that characteristically creative drive to move forward.
I called together a few friends and we met for an online conference call to plan an escape from art jail.
Ctrl-click (Mac) or right-click (PC) here to download the file.

LINKS ::
Big Illustration Party Time

Brian Campbell

Kevin Cross

Joshua Kemble

Stephen Pflug

Steve Umbleby

Chris Oatley on Twitter.

Chris Srnka

If you have iTunes installed on your computer, you can follow THIS LINK to the iTunes store and leave positive feedback in the “Customer Review” section.

The music heard on Chris Oatley’s ArtCast is provided by Storybook Steve and Kangaralien.

Wikipedia bio for Fyodor Dostoyevsky.

New Blogs or Podcasts at ChrisOatley.com EVERY MONDAY!

Episode 10 :: Listener Mail

Mon, 30 Mar 2009 10:41:13 -0700

IN THIS EPISODE ::
I answer listener questions about how I broke in to the entertainment industry, about being a well-rounded artist and I share some encouragement for those who may have found themselves in a transitional phase of life.

LINKS ::
ChrisOatley.com Store.

Chris Oatley on deviantArt.

Chris Oatley on Twitter.

Chris Oatley on Facebook.

Big Illustration Party Time.

Steve Galgas’ Website.

Grant Gould’s Website.

If you have iTunes installed on your computer, you can follow THIS LINK to the iTunes store and leave positive feedback in the “Customer Review” section.

The music heard on Chris Oatley’s ArtCast is provided by Storybook Steve and Kangaralien.

Ctrl-click (Mac) or right-click (PC) here to download the file.

Episode 9 :: Interview With Grant Gould

Mon, 9 Mar 2009 00:04:31 -0700

IN THIS EPISODE ::
I discovered the awesome work of illustrator Grant Gould after I heard an interview with him on The Force Cast.
When they plugged Grant’s website I checked it out and immediately became a fan of his work. He has a confident graphic style, a serenely balanced design sense and it is all sustained, primarily, by a contagious joy for drawing. His interpretations of the Lucasfilm characters are perhaps the most commercial pieces in his portfolio, but his own original creations are just as compelling.
I had the honor of meeting Grant when I attended Wizard World Chicago last summer and I was pleased to learn that he is also a remarkably friendly guy, easy going and humble.
I knew that I had to interview him for this show. And as I suspected, he generously obliged.
My dear friend Brian Campbell also joined us for the conversation. You can learn more about Brian’s life and artwork by listening to Episode 7 of this ArtCast or you can visit his website.
Ctrl-click (Mac) or right-click (PC) here to download the file.

LINKS ::
Grant Gould’s Website.

Click here to enter the Wookie Rage Poll and you could win an original Star Wars sketch!

If you have iTunes installed on your computer, you can follow THIS LINK to the iTunes store and leave positive feedback in the “Customer Review” section.

The music heard on Chris Oatley’s ArtCast is provided by Storybook Steve and Kangaralien.

Episode 8 :: Digital Painting Tutorial :: Hulk Vs. Wolverine (part 4)

Sun, 22 Feb 2009 21:16:08 -0800

In this episode, I share a digital painting technique that involves the subtraction of color from a series of transparent multiply layers combined with a more direct approach to painting in Photoshop CS3.

I talk about atmospheric perspective and how to apply that principle to painting the figure. I also further explore the concept of providing a fresh perspective on of iconic characters.

I am finally back to my regular schedule of posting a new blog or podcast every Monday.

If you have iTunes installed on your computer, you can follow THIS LINK to the iTunes store and leave positive feedback in the “Customer Review” section.

The music heard on Chris Oatley’s ArtCast is provided by Storybook Steve and Kangaralien.

Click here to read about my Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles painting that I reference in this episode.

Ctrl-click (Mac) or right-click (PC) here to download the file.

Episode 7 :: Lunchtime Chat With Brian Campbell

Sun, 1 Feb 2009 22:41:08 -0800

My friend and fellow artist Brian Campbell joins me for a phone conversation about the artists, movies and books that have been inspiring us lately.

:: ctrl-click (Mac) or right-click (PC) here to download the file ::

SHOW NOTES ::

Check out Brian Campbell’s website. Scroll to the bottom of this page to see the images from his MFA thesis show.

Check out the IMDB page for The Visitor or watch the trailer.

Check out the site for Three Shadows by Cyril Pedrosa.

Here is more information on the original Robert Wise version of The Day The Earth Stood Still.

You can see the work of Michael Schall on his website.

Artists Space: http://www.artistsspace.org

The music heard on Chris Oatley’s ArtCast is provided by Storybook Steve.

HERE’S A GINORMOUS DRAWING BY BRIAN CAMPBELL (9’ x 4’) ::

DETAILS ::

ONE MORE IMPORTANT THING ::

If you want to continue to receive the blog posts via RSS, you must subscribe to the new blog feed on the blog page at ChrisOatley.com. This feed will no longer contain the blog posts, only posts associated with the podcast episodes.

Episode 6 :: Tinker Bell Commentary With Mike Greenholt

Sun, 4 Jan 2009 10:45:35 -0800

Special guest Mike Greenholt joins me on this audio commentary that can be played along with Tinker Bell the movie (now available on DVD and BluRay). We explain what we did on the film and how we did it. We also share stories about the production as well as some personal perspectives on the art of animation.

:: ctrl-click (Mac) or right-click (PC) here to download the file ::

This podcast is for entertainment and informational purposes only. The views and opinions expressed therein are those of the individual speakers and do not necessarily represent the views of The Walt Disney Company or any of their respective affiliates and employees.

SHOW NOTES ::

Check out Mike Greenholt’s website.

More talented people who worked on Tinker Bell ::
Barry Atkinson :: Denise Fuller :: Miguel Gil :: Brent Gordon :: Cynthia Ignacio :: Ellen Jin :: John Nevarez :: Mark Pudleiner :: Shane Zalvin

You can see my other articles about the Creative Screenwriting Expo here.

The music heard on Chris Oatley’s ArtCast is provided by Storybook Steve.

ONE MORE IMPORTANT THING ::

I have split the Blog and Podcast into TWO SEPARATE FEEDS.

The reason for this is very technical so I won’t waste your time by trying to explain it. Simply put, there is SO MUCH content on this site, I am running out of room for all of it. I was able to make more room by separating the podcast posts from the blog posts.

The feed for my podcast will remain the same :: feed://feeds.feedburner.com/ChrisOatley

The feed for the blog is now :: feed://www.chrisoatley.com/CHRISOATLEY.COM/blog/rss.xml

You will also notice some design changes to the site. Please excuse any temporary ugly design due to the re-arranging of things. I am hopeful that the changes will provide a more organized navigation and room for more great content in the future.

Thanks for your patience during this time of transition.

If you notice any problems with the site, please let me know.

Episode 5 :: Digital Painting Tutorial :: Hulk Vs. Wolverine (part 3)

Thu, 25 Sep 2008 18:21:42 -0700

As per your requests, I am bringing you another installment of my Wolverine Vs. The Hulk tutorial. In parts one and two, I worked out a color comp over a very different line drawing of these two characters. I liked where the colors were going, but I just wasn’t satisfied with it. It just wasn’t intense enough.

So, after showing the piece to a few friends and attempting a couple of other sketches, I found the solution that you see demonstrated here. And I’m much happier with it.

I’m super-swamped right now, hence, the lack of posts and episodes these last two weeks. I’m currently packing for a move back to Los Angeles and at the same time, I have all kinds of freelance work.

I should be back to my regular schedule of a new post every Monday after the craziness of the move settles down in November. Until then, I’ll still be posting, but more sporadically than usual.

The music heard on Chris Oatley’s ArtCast is provided by Storybook Steve and Kangaralien.

Ctrl-click (Mac) or right-click (PC) here to download the file.

Episode 4 :: Interview With Lora Innes

Tue, 2 Sep 2008 16:50:45 -0700

Creator Lora Innes writes and draws The Dreamer, a formidable, passionately told story that is soon to be distributed by indy-comics champion, IDW (30 Days Of Night).

A present-day teenage girl called Bea experiences recurring dreams about the American Revolution but her dreams are so lucid that they might even be real.

Adventure, romance, war. 1776 is back.

:: ctrl-click (Mac) or right-click (PC) here to download the file ::

:: the music heard on Chris Oatley’s ArtCast is provided by Storybook Steve ::

:: click here for The Dreamer tutorials ::

*The Dreamer prints will no longer be sold here on this site, for they have moved to The Dreamer’s Etsy Shoppe.

Episode 3 :: Digital Painting Tutorial :: Hulk Vs. Wolverine (part 2)

Mon, 21 Jul 2008 09:50:30 -0700

This is the third official episode of Chris Oatley’s ArtCast. This episode contains further discussion about color and how I approach the creation of a color-comp.

Subscribe with RSS :: feed://feeds.feedburner.com/ChrisOatley

The music heard on Chris Oatley’s ArtCast is provided by Storybook Steve.

Ctrl-click (Mac) or right-click (PC) here to download the file.

Episode 2 :: Digital Painting Tutorial :: Hulk Vs. Wolverine (part 1)

Wed, 16 Jul 2008 08:00:59 -0700

This is the second official episode of Chris Oatley’s ArtCast. This episode contains some discussion about color and how I approach the creation of a color-comp. Also: A charge to always present a fresh point of view when drawing or painting popular characters.

Subscribe with RSS :: feed://feeds.feedburner.com/ChrisOatley

The music heard on Chris Oatley’s ArtCast is provided by Storybook Steve.

Ctrl-click (Mac) or right-click (PC) here to download the file.

Episode 1 :: Things I Learned The Hard Way (part 1)

Sun, 8 Jun 2008 15:09:26 -0700

Well, my friends, I have finally launched the first official episode of Chris Oatley’s ArtCast!

This episode is the first in a series that divulges some of the difficult lessons that I have had to learn in my life and how I have since taken those experiences and applied them to my art and/ or my career.

I sure hope you find it inspiring. Thanks for listening.

:: ctrl-click (Mac) or right-click (PC) here to download the file ::

I know that a lot of you were expecting another Dreamer tutorial today, but I’ve been doing that non-stop for six weeks and I don’t want to neglect the good people who are coming here for other things. I am also just a little burned out on those crazy-detailed tutorials so I decided to take a week off.

But NEVER FEAR! I am sure that if you have been enjoying the Dreamer tutorials, you will enjoy the new episode of the podcast. I should have another Dreamer tutorial up in just a week or two.

SHOW NOTES ::

You can find more information on my upcoming prints in this blog post and at the end of this video podcast.

The music heard on Chris Oatley’s ArtCast is provided by Storybook Steve.

Click here for Omni Outliner