Steve Thomas [Illustration]

Reminder: Groundhog Day movie inspired travel poster

2012-02-01T19:17:00.004-06:00

Just wanted to throw out this reminder that there are still prints available of the Punxsutawney/Groundhog day travel poster I did for Gallery1988 last year. It was a limited edition of 50. Giclee on archival paper, 16 x 24 inches, signed and numbered.

I've added some t-shirts to Redbubble.com

2012-01-23T21:33:00.001-06:00

Check them out. Redbubble.com also allows you to pick your shirt colour.

Another shirt up on Riptapparel this Friday, January 20

2012-01-17T21:16:00.003-06:00

Riptapparel.com will print this on a shirt as many times as they have to.

The shirt goes on sale at 12 a.m. Friday, January 20 for only 24 hours and for only $10 a piece. They also have children's sizes.

So get ready to rock out with some groovy teens - and a dog - with this limited editions 'concert' tee.

Just in time for Friday the 13th

2012-01-12T23:40:00.004-06:00

A travel poster inspired by the original "Friday the 13th". Watch out for those machetes.

And here are a couple of other movie-inspired travel posters. Can you guess the film?

Click on images for larger views and print information.

Lovecraft/Cthulhu shirt up at TheYetee.com Jan. 14 for 3 days

2012-01-12T16:10:00.002-06:00

Another glow-in-the-dark shirt will be up at TheYetee.com starting midnight Saturday, Jan. 14.

It pays homage to H.P. Lovecraft's monster Cthulhu, as well as a certain bounty hunter from a galaxy far, far away.

The shirt is only $11 and will be gone after Jan. 16th.

Step-by-step pulp painting

2012-01-06T21:30:00.013-06:00

Let me first start off by saying that I have no art instruction and much of what I have learned is by trial and error or reading blogs. Keep this in mind as you read through as I'm sure there are plenty of things I did wrong, or in an painful, roundabout way.

I had the opportunity to create an original painting for the wall at Sapling Pictures. The client was great to work with and knew exactly what he wanted.

The painting was to reflect the pulp novel covers of the early and mid 20th century.

I was provided with some background for the story that involved a car chase, plane, thugs and an airport in a foreign country. I started out with some sketches:

I received some feedback and returned with another sketch that would be closer to the final layout:

From there is was on to collect reference shots (which often involves taking pictures of myself). A lot of the detail images were provided by the client:

Next was to compile a finished sketch. I usually draw each element separately and then combine them in Photoshop. This is when I add the greyscale colours.

This is submitted to the client and feedback is given. There were a few rounds of revisions on this as we went through hair, wardrobe and pose for the lead woman and wardrobe for the lead male. Plus the addition of text and its placement.

When all was approved, I sent it off to get printed on canvas. This saves me time and frustration, rather than transfering it to canvas myself. I got a sepia image printed so that I would still have all the values there:

This next step didn't go quite as planned. I wanted to do a wash of a warm colour that I thought would help in the shadows of the people. I did it a bit too strong and a bit too red:

The next few images are all progress shots I sent to the client:

And here is the final. I used a water based paint pen for the text and outline. The rest was done with acrylics.

(I regret not having the painting professionally scanned.)

That's it. Pleae don't think of this as a tutorial. As I mentioned before, I have no formal training so a lot of what I do would probably make a trained artist cringe!

New Doctor Who shirt on TeeFury.com Tuesday, January 10

2012-01-06T11:27:00.004-06:00

On Tuesday, January 10th, TeeFury.com will be printing another shirt of mine. This one is Doctor Who inspired. Again, I went for a subtle reference, something that doesn't scream "Doctor Who". My brother was a huge help on this one. He knows more about the good Dr. than I. He was able to provide me with the idea and text. Thanks Bro!

Rememer, Tuesday for only 24 hours, then it is gone forever. Oh, and the shirts are only $10!

Very cool logos by Justin Van Genderen

2012-01-05T18:18:00.003-06:00

I first came across Justin's work from seeing his Star Wars Travel series. His latest creations take pop culture and put a sofisticated spin on some I.D.s. Check out some of his prints too.

Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays

2011-12-21T22:24:00.003-06:00

It's been a week since last posting and I'd like to take a moment to wish everyone Happy Holidays.

More things to come in the New Year. A few shows at Gallery1988, more Star Wars art for AcmeArchivesDirect.com, and other posters that will be a surprise. Not to mention tshirts at TheYetee.com, TeeFury.com and hopefully RiptApparel.com.

My goal for 2012 is to work with MondoTees.com on a poster. Wish me luck.

Thanks again!
Steve

Cropped Zazzle prints

2011-12-14T20:52:00.004-06:00

If you've ordered any of my posters from Zazzle and it came to you cropped with the image cut off at the top and bottom, please inquire about an exchange through Zazzle.

There is a feature on my end of things when setting up the print that I was unaware of until now. It locks in the aspect ratio so you don't have any other options besides ones that won't crop the image.

I've now corrected this so that all the posters are locked in. You can still order different sizes, just not all of the ones that were listed before.

Thanks.

Darth Vader silk screen print

2011-12-12T21:24:00.003-06:00

AcmeArchivesDirect has a second version of the Dark Vader, Lord of the Sith silk screen print now available.

150 piece silk screen limited edition
signed
18" x 24" $50.00

The design is based on this vintage image: www.allposters.com/-sp/Sandeman-Port-The-Famous-Silhouette-Posters_i1869720_.htm .

Vader just seemed to be a good fit.

Darth Vader variant silk screen print.

2011-12-08T00:20:00.003-06:00

The Ltd. Art Gallery has a limited Star Wars screenprint available for presale.

* Limited Edition Silscreen on Paper
* 50 piece hand-numbered edition
* Signed by artist Steve Thomas
* Measurements: 18 inches by 24 inches
* Available Flat or Framed

At last check, only 10 of 25 presale prints were left. The remaining 25 will be at the show that opens Thursday, Dec. 8.

Mos Eisley racing poster is completely sold out

2011-12-08T00:17:00.003-06:00

I did have a few artist proofs, but they are all gone. If anyone knows of any for sale, let me know. I have some interested parties looking to buy.

The Minnesota State Fair poster has won an award

2011-12-06T22:35:00.003-06:00

During the International Association of Fairs and Expositions Convention and Trade Show (IAFE) in Vegas. They gave out awards in several different marketing categories (social media, websites, media kits, advertising, etc.) The Minnesota State Fair won Outstanding Poster Award for 2011! The poster was judged against dozens of other large fair posters. Needless to say I'm thrilled!

2012 calendars available at Zazzle.com

2011-11-29T22:21:00.002-06:00

I have 4 different calendars available through Zazzle.com.

The first has all of the Vintage Space Travel posters, including the latest Titan and Zipline Tours.

http://www.zazzle.com/2012_vintage_space_travel_poster_calendar-158473142604678105

The second is of the Arcade Propaganda posters.

http://www.zazzle.com/2012_arcade_game_propaganda_poster_calendar-158789691091646807

The third is a mix of office propaganda, Halloween, Christmas and other posters.

http://www.zazzle.com/2012_misc_poster_calendar-158187809707337094

And finally, there is a calendar of fantasy and sci-fi motivational posters.

http://www.zazzle.com/2012_fantasy_motivational_poster_calendar-158318782035969143

Last in the Star Wars travel series is now available: Dagobah

2011-11-28T21:13:00.004-06:00

Acme Archives is now selling the eighth and final print in the Star Wars travel series. Dagobah: Visit you Should.
Measuring 13 by 19 inches, it comes signed and with a certificate of authenticity from Lucasfilm and Acme. It is a limited run of 150.
Many of the other prints are sold out (I still have a few I can part with), but the Sandcrawler and Coruscant ones are still available.

Giveaway! Poster or print.

2011-11-28T18:49:00.003-06:00

Over at Wired's geekdad blog, I have a giveaway for one of many limited edition prints. Included are the Punxsutawney travel poster, the Voltron concert poster, and any one of the Star Wars travel posters.

Here is the link http://www.wired.com/geekdad/2011/11/steve-thomas-poster-giveaway/.

All you need to do is comment on the blog entry and you are entered. But do so by midnight, Eastern Standard Time, on Friday, December 2, 2011. The winner will be announced on Monday, December 5. Good luck!

A Christmas Story limited edition leg lamp shirt only $10 on riptapparel.com

2011-11-23T23:44:00.002-06:00

Today only (Thanksgiving for those in the U.S.), Riptapparel.com is printing "A Christmas Story" inspired shirt. It is only be available for today at $10 each. They have hoodies as well as children's sizes and infant onesies.
The shirt depicts a "major award" that anyone would be proud to display in their front window (the lamp, not the shirt).
It would make the perfect holiday gift for any fan.

New Boba Fett shirt at Mighty Fine

2011-11-21T22:12:00.004-06:00

I did this Boba Fett shirt for the folks at Mighty Fine in response to the Darth Vader shirt I had done earlier.

The Millennium Falcon is down at the bottom left and the top of Cloud City is poking into the cloud at bottom right.

My Star Wars/Mos Eisley vintage racing poster was on Two and a Half Men tonight!

2011-11-14T22:23:00.008-06:00

A couple of friends sent me screengrabs:

Print available on Ebay until Nov. 24.

I'm a runner up at Mighty Fine's Muppet design contest

2011-11-11T21:00:00.004-06:00

The shirt is now available! A beaker Beaker.

Another Tee shirt up for votes at Qwertee

2011-11-10T20:52:00.004-06:00

This one is 5th Element inspired. Any votes will help it get closer to being printed. Thanks for your support! Please click here to vote.

RJ Sheldon wins the Springfield tshirt

2011-11-07T20:20:00.000-06:00

Thanks to all who retweeted and helped spread the word!

Bill Murray/Groundhog Day/Punxsutawney prints on sale at Gallery1988

2011-11-07T19:19:00.003-06:00

Gallery1988's tribute show to Bill Murray is open and a lot of amazing art is up for sale. Most are limited editions, including my submission above.
50 Giclee prints on archival paper, signed and numbered. You can find them here.

Last minute tshirt giveaway

2011-11-07T13:01:00.002-06:00

Tweet the following for a chance to win a free Springfield Nuclear glow in the dark shirt (see post below).

Tweet: Win a free tshirt from @stevethomasart and http://theyetee.com/ #freeyeteeshirt #thesimpsons

You can also put your size and male/female in the tweet.

Or leave a comment here to enter.

Contest ends 8 p.m. Central U.S. time. That leaves about 7 hours from now.

Good luck.

Simpsons inspired shirt update: GLOW IN THE DARK!

2011-11-03T17:34:00.004-05:00

We decided that a shirt about nuclear power should have some glow factor to it, so it will come with glow-in-the-dark ink printed on it.
Today the Yetee.com will have this tshirt design up for only 3 days (72 hours) and then it will be gone. Did I mention the shirts are only $11 each?

This shirt is an homage to Homer's position at the Springfield nuclear power plant. Perfect for any die hard Simpsons fans.

Plus, The Yetee holds a contest for a free shirt. All you need to do to enter is share a facebook post about the tshirt and comment that you shared. Just head over to their facebook page (www.facebook.com/theyeteelives) and wait to see the announcement for this shirt (probably sometime Friday).

And if you could help spread the word, Lenny and Carl would appreciate it. Because if the shirt does well, Homer has to buy the donuts.

Thanks.

Beetlejuice, Betelgeuse, Beetlejuice

2011-10-23T23:03:00.003-05:00

Just watched Beetlejuice, again. This was something I had originally done for the POP show at Ltd. Gallery, but went with the Voltron gig poster instead. Not really sure what to do with it now. I hope to be able to put it up as a print somewhere, sometime.

The story behind this one is, what if Beetlejuice had won, married Lydia and took over the Maitland's family business.

If you missed Ltd. Gallery's POP show ...

2011-10-23T20:54:00.002-05:00

You can see the art here. A lot of great pieces from your favourite games and movies.

Prints are also available.

Gallery1988's Tribute to Bill Murray

2011-10-20T23:39:00.006-05:00

I'm very excited to be a part of Gallery1988's tribute to Bill Murray. It's been a goal of mine to have something up in their gallery. So I was thrilled when they asked me to submit something for the show. The show opens Nov. 3 in Los Angeles (see evite below).

This is my take on Bill. We see him in Punxsutawney (location shown is Woodstock, Ill. where filming took place) with some Easter eggs sprinkled through the print (6 a.m., Tip Top Cafe, groundhog and gopher (from Caddyshack), news van). The repetition of the tag line was fully intended. If you've seen Groundhog Day, you'll understand.

There is a limited run of 50 Giclee prints on archival paper, signed and numbered.

Here are some detail shots:

Pittsburgh news van:

Groundhog, gopher. Gopher, groundhog:

Bill

Evite:

Brilliant Potter

2011-10-19T22:42:00.002-05:00

I've been subbing this around to some t-shirt a day sites since mid-summer, without luck so far. Would you wear it?

Muppets t shirt up for votes at WeLoveFine.com

2011-10-14T18:26:00.003-05:00

WeLoveFine.com is holding a tshirt design contest. Not only do the winners get their shirts printed, they get some cold, hard cash too.

There are a lot of great designs up to vote on, but I'm hoping you'll vote for mine (shown above, click on the image to get there). They just require you to register before voting. Takes a second. Thanks.

I've always liked Beaker.

The Nimbus t-shirt flies again for 2 days only

2011-10-02T17:08:00.001-05:00

Qwertee.com Is now selling this shirt. The shirt will be sold for a limited time only so grab yours early.

Commissioned Fantastic Four poster

2011-09-29T17:43:00.002-05:00

This was completed for a private commission. The idea was to highlight the Baxter Building and have the original Fantastic Car taking off from the roof.

Pop culture art show at L|td. gallery in Seattle beginning Oct. 21

2011-09-28T19:24:00.004-05:00

I'm very excited to announce that I will be a part of the grand opening of L|td. gallery in Seattle next month (Oct. 21). The subject matter of the show is pop culture so that left it pretty much wide open.

I decided to revamp an old design and get screenprints made. 25 total, signed and numbered, 4 spot colour on French 100# PopTone (teal) paper. The look I was going for was that of a concert poster. They will be available at the show. (they used my piece for a base of the poster - awesome)

The pose is based on Angel Nieves' 3D model shown here. He was kind enough to allow me to use the image for reference.

Just being on the same bill as the artists listed on the poster is an honour. Many of whom I admire greatly and have been good sources of inspiration.

So, if you live in the area or plan to be in Seattle over that time, stop by. I don't think you'll be disappointed.

New Star Wars shirts up at Mighty Fine

2011-09-26T17:50:00.002-05:00

WeLoveFine.com has two new Star Wars shirts for sale. Think of them as souvenirs from vacationing on either Tattooine or Hoth. You should always be wary of the wildlife.

Vintage cycling posters for ClifBar

2011-09-23T00:30:00.003-05:00

I'm now able to show these since the event they were created for has come and gone.
This series of posters I did for ClifBar's booth at this year's Interbike expo in Las Vegas, last weekend.
It was a great series to be a part of, and the folks at ClifBar were fantastic to work with.

Star Wars travel poster: Coruscant

2011-09-15T21:42:00.003-05:00

The second last Star Wars travel poster is up at AcmeArchivesDirect.com. It's of the planet the Emperor used to call home and captured at a time when a grand statue of him still watched over all. The hightlight of this poster is the Lambda-class Imperial shuttle.

Next up: Dagobah

Another Tee shirt up for votes at Qwertee

2011-09-08T22:54:00.003-05:00

This gives new meaning to the term "super nanny". If you think you'd wear it, please head over to Qwertee.com and vote it up. Thanks.

Tee up for votes at 604Republic

2011-08-29T23:42:00.003-05:00

Inspired by the classic He Man cartoons, this design pokes fun at Prince Adam's relationship with his alter ego, He Man. Please take the time to vote here if you like it. Thanks.

Two new space travel posters

2011-08-22T17:44:00.006-05:00

I've added two more vintage space travel posters to the series. The destinations are still within our solar system, so not out of reach - yet.

These two and the other ten are available at Zazzle.com in multiple sizes and on different paper types and canvas.

If you like zip lines or rock climbing, visit your local travel agent to set up an exciting vacation.

Minnesota State Fair bus side ads

2011-08-11T22:58:00.006-05:00

I was asked to come up with some illustrations to promote the Minnesota State Fair on bus sides. I was provided with the text and left to come up with the imagery. I did six in all, one will only be seen in western Wisconsin.

I met some great people through Flickr when searching for reference photos. Everyone I contacted was gracious enough to let me use their image as a base. Thanks again!

So if you are around the Twin Cities and see a bus go by, check out the ads!

Maitland Hardware inspired by Beetlejuice

2011-08-11T22:44:00.005-05:00

The Maitlands owned a store in Winter River prior to their accident on the bridge. This shirt pays homage to their small store next to the barber shop. I've had this in my head for a while and wanted to get it out. So here it is. Could be some variations coming soon.

Not available as a tshirt at this time.

Possible resurrection of the Nimbus shirt

2011-08-11T22:13:00.003-05:00

Same design, different colour. I've submitted it to Qwertee to see if it can rise again. Head on over and vote for it, if you missed it the first time. Thanks.

New Vader shirt up at WeLoveFine.com

2011-08-03T18:13:00.007-05:00

The great folks at WeLoveFine.com asked me to come up with something Star Wars related for a tshirt, which is now available. They liked my He Man/Skeletor faux concert poster so I used that as inspiration.

This design went through a few versions before I came to this. It was always going to be of Vader's helmet, the problem was what elements to use to create the look. I'll try to post a couple of the early versions later tonight.

Star Wars travel poster: Tatooine

2011-07-25T10:02:00.004-05:00

Acme Archives Direct has released the next Star Wars travel poster: Scavenging across Tatooine. Six down and two more to go. On deck are Dagobah and Coruscant. Not sure when they will become available yet.

Reminder: Arcade Propaganda set at ThinkGeek.com

2011-07-19T23:26:00.002-05:00

Just throwing out this little reminder that a set of five arcade propaganda posters are available over at ThinkGeek.com.

Harry Potter inspired shirt (Nimbus Brooms) up now at TeeFury.com

2011-07-14T23:00:00.000-05:00

Just a reminder: go to TeeFury.com now or for the next 24 hours to snatch up your tee. It's only $10 and it's only around for Friday.

Also, please spread the word by blog, email, Tweet or owl.

Thanks.

Harry Potter/Nimbus Racing Broom t-shirt coming to TeeFury this Friday

2011-07-11T19:45:00.004-05:00

Just in time for the opening of the final chapter of the Harry Potter series, TeeFury.com will print a design of mine for one day only and for only $10 on Friday, July 15th.

Inspired by the brooms used in Quidditch matches, this design is somewhat of a company branding illustration. Complete with a Seeker chasing a Snitch.

So this Friday, before you hop on your brooms and fly off to see the latest movie, head over to TeeFury.com and be sure to grab one of these tees for yourself, a friend or family member. Because after Friday it'll be gone forever.

Predator mash-up at Artoyz.com

2011-07-11T17:55:00.004-05:00

GeekArt.net and Artoyz have teamed up on a gallery show based on blockbuster movies from the last half of the 20th century. I was lucky enough to be asked to participate. I chose the movie Predator. I had a few different ideas, but settled on a mash-up with the Grateful Dead logo.

Are there many fans of both out there?!? At any rate, Artoyz has prints available of all the entries on their site. Delivery of the prints will happen after the show ends in Sept.

Just a quick thanks

2011-07-06T18:08:00.000-05:00

Thanks to everyone who bought a Prime Trucking shirt. It made for a great 4th.

Celebrate the 4th with a new Transformers inspired t-shirt from Ript Apparel (Optimus Prime anyone?)

2011-06-30T08:00:00.000-05:00

Ript Apparel is printing a design of mine on Monday, July 4th. T-shirts are only $10. Inspired by the release of the latest Transformers movie, this shirt takes you back to the original design of Optimus Prime. When not saving the world from the evil Decepticons, Prime had his own business hauling freight.

This is a one-day deal so if you miss it, it's gone. Take time out of your backyard bar-be-que and fire up the computer instead. Men's, women's and kid's sizes available. As well as hoodies and infant onesies. Great for those thirty-somethings who grew up with the Autobots or for their own kids who are now getting into the revitalized franchise. Click here at 12 a.m. Monday or anytime after that for only 24 hours.

Here are a couple of details:

New tshirt coming to Ript Apparel next Monday

2011-06-27T08:00:00.002-05:00

On Monday, July 4, Ript Apparel will be selling a shirt with a design of mine for only $10. More to come later in the week. (Hint: mine is at the bottom right. Does it look a bit familiar?)

Star Wars travel poster: Yavin

2011-06-23T15:08:00.003-05:00

Just a quick note to say that the latest (and fifth of eight) Star Wars travel print is up at Acme Archives Direct.

Thanks again for your support!

Brooklyn Travel poster, plus a special edition

2011-06-16T23:25:00.008-05:00

Back in March I was thrilled to be a part of a gallery showing at Gallery Provocateur in Chicago. The theme was a Frank Frazetta tribute. I chose to depict the area where he grew up in the form of a travel poster. The show has just ended so I am now able to sell some prints. The "original" (digital print on canvas, signed, framed, at about 24 inches by 36 inches) is also available.

I've also modified the posters for those who may not be a fan of Frazetta (hard to believe, I know, but there might be a few people out there). Brooklyn and New York:

All are available as prints and in different sizes at Zazzle.com. And if you click on the images above they will take you to the prints. They default to the largest size.

Minnesota State Fair commemorative art - unveiled

2011-06-09T11:15:00.003-05:00

Yesterday was the unveiling of the official art for the 2011 Minnesota State Fair. I had received the call for entries almost a year ago and am now honored to show the artwork and be a part of the Fair. The Minnesota State Fair Foundation has prints on sale if interested. Click here.
Thanks.

New S.H.I.E.L.D. tee shirt at Mighty Fine

2011-05-31T19:41:00.006-05:00

The fine people at Might Fine asked me to come up with some t-shirt designs based on Marvel Comics. This is the first. It's a SHIELD recruitment ad. Nick Fury needs you. Do you have what it takes to become a SHIELD agent? On sale here.

Another parody tshirt: Poltergeist

2011-05-19T23:27:00.005-05:00

This one is based on the housing development where the family lives in the movie. I've seen a shirt with the same idea, but different treament. I thought I go the 80s retro look. Hope it worked. On sale at Zazzle.com.

Retro Thursday* (a day late)

2011-05-13T16:24:00.003-05:00

It's been a couple of weeks since I last posted anything so I thought I was due. Here is something from 2002, completed for yet another online contest. These contests were a great way to get motivated to create some art - when I had time back then.

I think it was a post-apocalyptic subject and fairly open to interpretation. I tried to use a lot of everyday items to dress our hero, hence the water polo cap and baseball glove/turned bag.

*In an effort to post something at least once a week I'll be showing some artwork from the archives every Thursday.

Office Propaganda posters - finally got around to them

2011-04-26T19:55:00.015-05:00

These posters are something I've wanted to do for a while. I just haven't had a lot of time lately. But I finally got around to doing a few. I went ultra minimalistic (for me anyway) and kept the colour palette down.

They are perfect for your office walls, especially if you have an office manager with a sense of humour. Or decorate your cubicle with one or more of them. I'd say they even work in a home office. Need a new mouse pad? Grab one of these to remind yourself not to tweet what you had for lunch, while at work.

As always, they are available for print (at many sizes) at Zazzle.com/stevethomas. Or click on the image to take you directly to that print.

(Disclaimer: They are all in fun and though it may sound like I have a gripe with a few of the issues I've tackled, I don't. But some might.)

[Post this in cubicles or on the office wall]
That urge to check your Facebook page or send out a tweet can be very hard to suppress, especially when you have a few spare minutes in front of your computer at work. But each of those wall posts and tweets have a time peg so watch out. Or just do what the poster says (small print at bottom, "Unless it's part of your job description.")

[Post this above the water cooler]
Sure it's fun and exciting to hear about who hooked up with who at the last office party, or whether someone will get canned over a nasty company-wide email, but it can also hurt. So remember, if you don't want to hear it just walk away and if you do hear it, please don't repeat. (can you see the two larger faces? hint: they are profiles).

[Post this in cubicles or the office wall]
No one wants to be responsible for letting spyware into the company's computer system or setting a virus loose on the network, so don't open those attachments. Let your IT team take care of any downloads you think you need.

[Post this in the restrooms]
Do everyone a favour, when you use the restroom wash your hands afterward. And if you have to come in to work when you are feeling under the weather, wash up frequently, cough/sneeze into your elbow and avoid handshakes where possible.

[Post this in the breakroom or cafeteria]
It's simple. Pick up after yourself. I'm sure you have to do it at home so why stop at work. Plus it helps the cleaning staff.

Now, for some, the red might be a bit much. So, luckily, the posters are available in this nice, calm blue tone:

And if you noticed that little circle at the bottom of each poster, this is what it looks like large. I made a tshirt out of it. You can choose your colour tee and that colour will replace the red in this image.

MIGHT tees is selling a tshirt I designed

2011-04-12T21:20:00.008-05:00

My good friends at MIGHT tees asked me to create something that would compliment their brand and logo. We came up with this take on Rock 'em Sock 'em robots: Their mascot besting the two robot boxers.

MIGHT tees also has some other great shirts for "cool nerds" available. Check them out!

For fans of Dracula and vampires (and also Twihards)

2011-04-05T20:39:00.005-05:00

Here is the next installment of the Classic Monster restaurant logos. It follows zombie diner, mummy deli and werewolf beer. This one answers the question: What if Dracula opened a restaurant. You can be sure it would be an upscale dining experience. The flourishes above the text represent a bat, can you see it? As always, tshirts are available at Zazzle.com.

And for the Twihards out there, I drummed one up especially for you. Tshirt available here. (It in no way is affiliated with any existing restaurant or any movie or book. It is merely inspired by them.)

UFO catching 'frisbee' dog tshirt

2011-03-28T21:49:00.004-05:00

New tshirt up on Zazzle.com. I've always tried to get my dog to catch a frisbee. Sometimes she would get it, but most of the time it would bounce off her nose and then she'd retrieve it, only to chew it to bits. Here is a brave pup, ready to take on the universe:

This is an alternate version I submitted over at TeeFury.com:

Retro Thursday* (a day early)

2011-03-23T22:13:00.004-05:00

I haven't posted anything in a while. Unfortunately I haven't been working on anything new, for myself, for a while. I hope to change that in the coming month. But for now, here is something that I don't think I've shown before. It was in response to an online challenge to redo classic video game characters. This one is Nanase from Street Fighter. Not sure the year, but it's old.

*In an effort to post something at least once a week I'll be showing some artwork from the archives every Thursday.

$5 off St. Patrick Day shirts at Zazzle.com's

2011-03-07T23:39:00.003-06:00

Zazzle.com has a special offer for St. Patrick's Day tshirts. $5 off. Use this code at checkout: 5OFFSTPADDYS.

Thanks to everyone who bought a shirt

2011-03-03T23:22:00.003-06:00

Thanks for making my first experience with Tee Fury a great one. I made their "Super Popular" stack of pancakes honor - which was a goal of mine.

I've said it before, many times, but I do sincerely appreciate the support. I'm going to keep creating art that I hope you'll like.

Steve

Time is running out at Tee Fury

2011-03-03T19:31:00.002-06:00

As of this post there are only 3 hours and 30 mins left to grab a Star Wars tshirt at TeeFury.com. Don't miss out!

And Thanks.

Tee Fury shirt going up at midnight TONIGHT!

2011-03-02T15:02:00.004-06:00

A bit late notice, but if you are a fan of Star Wars and you like tshirts, why not spend $10 and get both! I have a design going up at TeeFury.com at midnight tonight (so 12 a.m. March 3, 2011).

The design was inspired by the family decals you see on the rear windshield of minivans and suv's alike. Sure there are other Star Wars decals, but from what I could find, they either have a stormtrooper helmet or Vader helmet. In mine, a few of the core characters are represented (the good, that is). Perhaps I should do a design for the dark side of the force later on.

I think the shirt would be good for men and women alike, as well as kids. So, if your aunt's, uncle's, mum's, dad's, brother's or sister's birthday is coming up or you have a nephew, niece, son, daughter or cousin who is graduating this spring, why not give a gift you know they'll love. Then get one for yourself too. Plus, this shirt will only be for sale for one day. That's right, just 24 hours to grab one. After that they are gone.

I repeat: THIS IS A ONE DAY SALE ONLY. SO THESE WILL BE A LIMITED COLLECTOR'S TEE SHIRT.

Now on to the design. Click the image on March 3rd or the Tee Fury link above to get there.

Thanks for your support!

Thanks

Star Wars travel posters: the next two

2011-02-24T23:33:00.004-06:00

Acme Archives will be putting the next two prints in my Star Wars travel poster series up for sale tomorrow morning (Friday, Feb. 25). Star Destroyer and Hoth evac. I just finished signing a bunch of them and they look great. The colours are vibrant and the paper quality is fantastic.

Thanks to all who have purchased the first two. I really appreciate the support.

If you are interested, I've set up an email newsletter that will alert your inbox of any updates to my blog. Just enter your email address at the right. Thanks.

Just in time for St. Patrick's day - t-shirts!

2011-02-23T23:44:00.000-06:00

If you are tired of the "Kiss me I'm Irish" and "Show me your Shamrocks" or "Dublin Drinking Team" type tshirts out there, here are a few designs you might like. One is of a fictitious pawn shop, one is of a 'Rock, Paper, Scissors' spin off called "Shamrock, Paper, Shillelagh' national championship (the shillelagh always wins), one is a play on a popular logo, and one is a fictitious pub in Dublin. All available as tshirts (and in different colours) at Zazzle.com.

Lycanthropic Stout beer label

2011-02-09T02:00:00.003-06:00

Here is the next addition to a series of food/beverage logos I'm doing based on classic monsters. This time the subject is werewolves or lycanthropes. Drink enough of these and you may develop a lycanthropic disorder: having delusions of being a wild animal.

It's a good, dark stout best consumed during a full moon. As always, it's available on a tshirt at Zazzle.com. Can you find the silver bullet?

Minnesota State Fair commemorative art

2011-02-02T00:05:00.002-06:00

I've been selected to create the Official 2011 Minnesota State Fair Commemorative Art! It's a great honor and an incredible opportunity. I can't show anything until June, but I'll be sure to post it here. You can read the release and see past art here.

A small gift from Zazzle to you

2011-01-26T20:10:00.002-06:00

Use this code APFRIENDGIFT and receive 15% off anything on Zazzle.com.

Quick blog update

2011-01-24T22:16:00.001-06:00

I've added a newsletter subscription. If interested, just enter your email in the space provided at right and you'll receive an email each time I update the blog.

Frank Frazetta tribute update: Good news!

2011-01-17T18:40:00.005-06:00

The selection has been made in Gallery Provocateur's call for Frazetta tribute art for an upcoming show. I'm very happy to say that I've made the cut!

Out of 300 entries, the gallery has chosen about 70 pieces to be included in a 3-month show in Chicago. The opening will coincide with Chicago Comic Convention C2E2, March 18-20.

Visit the gallery website to see the rest of the incredible entries.

Here, again, is the image:

See you in Chicago!

Retro Thursday*

2011-01-13T23:11:00.004-06:00

Nothing new lately so here is another blast from the past. It was sort of a test image for a collectible card game circa 2002'ish. I think it ended up in their slush pile. Note to self: Must use reference.

*In an effort to post something at least once a week I'll be showing some artwork from the archives every Thursday.

Featured on Flyer Design Goodness

2011-01-05T20:14:00.002-06:00

The fine people at flyergoodness.blogspot.com have a post featuring a lot of my posters. I regularly visit their site to see the amazing posters and flyers they find and was pleasantly surprised when I stopped by today.

I'm honoured to be in such great company.

Retro Thursday*

2010-12-23T18:20:00.004-06:00

I was digging around, trying to find something holiday related for this week's installment. I finally found an illo from years ago, created while at a newspaper in Pittsburgh. The story dealt with takeout meals for Thanksgiving and Christmas.

Season's Greetings!

*In an effort to post something at least once a week I'll be showing some artwork from the archives every Thursday.

Frank Frazetta tribute entry

2010-12-15T21:01:00.004-06:00

Gallery Provocateur has had an open call for submissions that ends today. It was to create a tribute piece to Frank Frazetta.

This from their Facebook page:
"Create a piece that is evocative of Frank's work but not a carbon copy or literal rendition of it. It must convey the essence of his distinctive work. Frank's compositions were strong and based on classical principles, masterpieces of energy and color. Epic and powerful. Images must be more than just a repaint of a reference image. Size is unlimited as well as medium."

I first came upon the open call through Jon Schindehette's blog. He is the Creative Art Director for Dungeons & Dragons® - Wizards of the Coast - and also a judge in the Gallery show.

When I set about to create a piece I wanted it to be something with a vintage flavour. I figured most entries would be of barbarians and damsels - a lot of what Frazetta is famous for. You can see them all here. So, I went a down another route in hopes that it would be different enough to set me apart from the rest. I settled on a travel poster to the place Frazetta was born.

The graffiti is of the Death Dealer, one of Frazetta's more popular characters. You can't tell from this image, but a closer look would reveal that he has a single tear (red paint drip) in memory of Frazetta who passed earlier this year. And I put a large lizard atop the Brooklyn Bridge. There are a number of Frazetta paintings that include large lizards stalking their human prey.

At any rate, it was completely worth it to create an image in honour of Frank Frazetta. I used to do a lot more fantasy artwork in which Frazetta was a huge influence. I hope to get back to it someday, but for now I'll stick with the retro/vintage route.

Tron art should be on sale Dec. 15th

2010-12-13T20:40:00.007-06:00

Acme archives now has the finish image up. Just got word that they will be releasing it Dec. 15th with the others being released each day leading up to Friday when Tron opens in theaters.
Again, it was a great opportunity to create something that was officially approved by Disney. Here is the image. Click it to go to Acme Archives Direct.

Dont forget to check out the other artist contributions here.

Star Wars travel posters now on t-shirts

2010-12-09T19:17:00.005-06:00

Zazzle.com has started creating products with all eight Star Wars travel posters of mine. The store is still a work in progress so check back for more products and revised placement of images. It isn't tied in with my zazzle.com/stevethomas store so I don't have any control over which products will be made. I do know that Zazzle can't print them on any paper product (posters, cards, flyers, brochures, bizcards, etc.). They have started placing the images onto tshirts, hoodies, hats, mugs, mousepads, buttons, magnets, etc.

Click here to get there.

More iPad cases

2010-12-07T19:24:00.003-06:00

I can't believe I haven't posted since Nov. 19. I guess it's because I'm waiting on a couple of things to come through. One of which is the Tron poster for Acme Archives. It's been approved so I hope it will be up there soon. I'll definitely post when it does.

I've had a couple of requests for more artwork on iPad cases over at Zazzle. Here are some examples:

Tron art coming soon

2010-11-19T22:52:00.003-06:00

Acme Archives Direct asked if I was interested in doing some Tron related art. Heck yeah! I said, or something similar. Anyway, they have a preview of it on their site. Mind you it's the rough mock up I sent them, but it's there to take a peak. Other great artists are also participating.

Custom iPhone and iPad cases

2010-11-16T18:00:00.004-06:00

I have a few custom iPhone 3, iPhone 4 and iPad cases with my art available at Zazzle.com/stevethomas.

If there is artwork of mine you like, but don't see it on a case, let me know and I'll work one up for you.

Star Wars travel posters are finally here!

2010-11-16T00:13:00.008-06:00

The first two Star Wars travel posters are up for sale Mos Eisley and The first two Star Wars travel posters are up for sale Kessel Run.

I'm sending out an email also. I apologize if I missed anyone. I had such a huge response and tried to keep up with all the comments and anyone who left their email. As well as combing through blogger profiles. Some didn't list email addresses. Does anyone know if there is a way to reply to all the commenters at one time?

The first two released are:

Just to clear up any confusion, there is an asterisk and a footnote on the Kessel Run poster explaining that a parsec is a measure of distance, not time. There is a close up of this on the Acme Archives website. Check it out!

Original post here.

Star Wars travel posters up for sale Nov. 16th

2010-11-12T19:34:00.004-06:00

I just got word the first two Star Wars travel posters will be going up for sale on Acme Archives Direct, next Tuesday, Nov. 16. They plan to release them two at a time, but I don't know the time between releases yet.

They will be Fine Art Giclee’s on Watercolor paper at approx. 13” x 19”, 150 piece editions, signed, for $89.00 unframed.

I'm waiting to send out an email to everyone who requested one until I have the link to the live shop. But keep an eye out here as well.

Here are the first two:

Original post here.

Update: Star Wars travel posters

2010-11-11T00:08:00.003-06:00

First off I have to say thanks to all who have commented and emailed. I sincerely appreciate the support.

This is still preliminary, so some details might change, but I wanted to give a small update.

I've been working with Acme Archives Direct to get the posters up for sale and it looks like it is going to happen - soon. They plan to release them two at a time at approx. 13" by 19", limited edition and signed (150 of each is the latest count). I don't know, yet, which two will go up first.

I'll still be emailing all those who requested a note to let you know when they will be available.

Thanks again and stay tuned.

Original post here.

Mummy-owned deli logo

2010-11-05T22:37:00.008-05:00

Second in a series of classic monster-owned restaurants. This one is an ancient Egyptian deli owned and operated by mummies. A scarab made from veggies and cheese. A name that is a pun (Two Ten Common = Tutankhamun). I figured they named the place after their address of 210 Common Ave. As always, shirts on sale here.

Visit Santa's workshop at the North Pole - vintage travel poster

2010-11-05T00:31:00.000-05:00

Just in time for Christmas. It's a travel poster to Santa's workshop. My plan is to do one of these types of posters for each month so that by next Christmas I'll have a calendar ready. Next up will be New Year's at Times Square (or Sydney or both) for January. Prints, postcards and greeting cards are available here.

Zombie tshirt

2010-10-31T00:58:00.008-05:00

Happy Halloween!

I've had an overwhelming response to my Star Wars travel poster post below. I appreciate all the comments. I'm hoping that the number of people interested will help with trying to get them printed. I'll let you all know when that happens.

While I'm waiting, I've jumped on the Zombie bandwagon. Actually this is the first of a "classic monster" tshirt series I'm working on. Each one based on a restaurant theme. It's sort of an homage to the premier of AMC's Walking Dead series.

Either I'm the biggest wimp in the world or I have a very over-active imagination. I'd like to think its the latter, but I know myself (I couldn't sleep for a week after seeing "The Ring"). I actually had a zombie nightmare the night after I did the thumbnail sketches for this.

A zombie diner tshirt has been done before, but I wanted to try my hand at it. And because I'm not very good at self editing, there are a couple of different colour combos and distressed or not distressed.

They are available at Zazzle.com.

Vintage Star Wars travel posters

2010-10-27T19:27:00.013-05:00

**UPDATE** click here!
Well, I've been sitting on these for two years now (that is far too long) and since then I've seen every kind of Star Wars mash up imaginable (but hope to see some more creative ones in the future). I say "since then" because I really wasn't looking too hard before I completed these.

They are very much inspired by some of the vintage travel posters of the early 20th century.

These were done in association with a website in order to have them printed. That website is still working on making that a reality. I'm crossing my fingers for a quick resolve. So, for now they are just here to look at.

I decided I couldn't wait any longer to show them. With the release of the art book Star Wars: Visions, and everyone else sharing their awesome Star Wars inspired art, I wanted to throw mine into the web mix.

There are eight in all and you can see all of them together here.

If interested and you want to know when they will be available, please leave a comment and I'll get back to you. Thanks.

Halloween Jack 'o Leaf

2010-10-25T18:04:00.004-05:00

As Halloween approaches, I've been thinking about what to carve in our pumpkins. Then I remembered this design I made a few years ago. It's for all the Canadians and maple leaf fans out there. It fits a medium-sized pumpkin.

The template:
Print this out and tape it to your pumpkin. Use a toothpick and poke holes along the dotted lines. This will give you a guide to cut when the paper is off. Cut out and remove all the grey shapes.

Unlit (sort of looks like a smiling jack'o lantern, eh?):

Lit:

Enjoy.

Retro Thursday*

2010-10-21T22:51:00.002-05:00

How about a little Terminator assembly line image. Created many years ago. Definitely some perspective issues, but I was young and lazy.

*In an effort to post something at least once a week I'll be showing some artwork from the archives every Thursday.

Retro Thursday* (one day early)

2010-10-13T20:30:00.003-05:00

I won't have an opportunity to post for a few days so I'll use today as my Thursday.

This one is fairly recent (within the last 5 years). It was designed as a wraparound book cover for an unwritten story. I think I was trying to create a sense of drama. I'll call it "Aurora Borealis".

*In an effort to post something at least once a week I'll be showing some artwork from the archives every Thursday.

Geek Anthem

2010-10-06T20:05:00.002-05:00

Geek Anthem, a website that "celebrates geeks and geek culture with a unique voice" was kind enough to post an entry focusing on my cartoon concert posters.

Be sure to visit them and take a look around. Some great info, illustrations and design.

Cartoon Concert Posters

2010-10-04T19:26:00.015-05:00

Here is my latest series. They are concert posters based on 1980s cartoons. I wanted to try my hand at doing gig posters but needed a subject, so I turned to my youth and thought these would make good, fun, fake posters. All are up and for sale now.

Some come in different colour combinations as well as 'distressed' to look aged. To see the rest, visit my Zazzle and Imagekind stores.

I also turned one of them into a concert tshirt. Some of the shirts have cities listed on the back. I plan to do the same with the other posters. All of the shirts are customizable by colour and shirt style. Many to choose from.

The above art and posters are in no way affiliated with any bands or shows. 100% unofficial.

Retro Thursday*

2010-09-30T20:23:00.005-05:00

Check back early next week for the latest series of posters I'm working on. I'm pretty excited about them.

But for now, lets take a look back at what I was up to many years ago. This was a doodle that I decided to colour (for some reason). I believe it was around the time I got my tablet and was eager to do some art without a mouse. Enjoy.

*In an effort to post something at least once a week I'll be showing some artwork from the archives every Thursday.

I'm now on Flickr

2010-09-28T21:53:00.001-05:00

Just a quick note to mention that I've started a Flickr account.

Retro Thursday* is back

2010-09-23T21:06:00.003-05:00

I'm currently working on some new posters that I hope to post in the next two weeks. 1980s pop culture is involved. But for now, some more from years past. This one is at least 5 years old, if not older. I can't remember if it was for a contest or not. However, I do know that the clouds ended up looking like mashed potatoes. Hopefully the robot distracts from that.

*In an effort to post something once a week I'll be showing an image from the archives every Thursday.

New illustration

2010-09-16T21:51:00.003-05:00

I just got a copy of the magazine in the mail today so I can now show this image. It was for ICON magazine in the U.K. The illustration is about trying to get more people to cycle around London. They have blue lanes around the city for this purpose. The art direction called for no London landmarks.

I have a design up on Threadless.com

2010-09-13T19:29:00.002-05:00

Please take a moment to vote on my design at Threadless.com. I mean, who doesn't want to learn how to build a time machine?