Jason Shasteen Design

I was inspired tonight to start trying to come up with a character for my first attempt at a webcomic.  I am stilling thinking that the idea of “JaidenTown” is a great place to start.  So as I sketched away to try and capture the essence of my son Jaiden, it was a rough start.  I did however come up with one attempt that led me to another and before I knew it I came up with this latenight scenario.  I am also considering the idea the puppy he sleeps with almost every night could be one of his friends that comes to life on occasion.  Which seems really fun, since he also has an alligator too.  Now it has occurred to me that the concept of a boy, a puppy, or even stuffed animals that come to life has been done before ( Winnie the Pooh, Toy Story, Calvin and Hobbes).  But when it is inspired by one of my boys, whom I love so deeply….it can never be cliche.  So I am hoping that will come across to others who read the comic, and not just me:).  I think an awesome dream sequence every once and awhile would be fun too! ….All that being said, just typing as I get inspired….. maybe I will completely change my mind tomorrow…who knows…..sure seems like a great idea right now though.

I was trying to decide earlier this week what subject I was going to sketch this weekend and I was leaning toward revisiting the ninja turtles.  I have fun memories of drawing these guys all the time, especially in school around the time the first movie came out in theaters.  I even made a few quarters from copies I made, with my teachers permission ofcourse, by selling them to other students.  Too bad I spent all my profit on some totally awesome sports pencils!  Anyways, I considered it confirmation when one of my favorite artists, Jake Parker, decided to post a version of the original Leonardo from the comic book series on his blog.  So Saturday turned into playing some TMNT on the computer with Jaiden and watching the latest movie which I haven’t been in the mood to watch in atleast a year.  Good times…too bad I chose to color this sketch and stayed up way too late….haven’t done that in a while.  Pray for me that I’m not too grumpy when Jaiden tries to wake me up early tomorrow….thanks!   Oh yeah….COWABUNGA!!!

I had a little fun today in Photoshop.  After watching Peter Pan with Jaiden I couldn’t help myself from drawing my own flying ship.  I enjoy imagining the view from the boat and allowing myself to see the clouds come to life.  I think I am remembering how much I enjoyed watching Disney movies as a kid and the importance of imagination and finding that peaceful place to rest.  A Saturday well spent..with friends and family…I hope to make a habit of it.

This was a drawing of Rudolph that Jaiden did on the computer with a little help from me.  He tells me that when he gets older he will help me at my office and do whatever I tell him to.  I am looking forward to possibly keeping cartooning in the family…possibly (crossing fingers).  Oh yeah, Jaiden wanted to make sure everyone knows he is 4 yrs. old

I’m leaving town for the weekend.  I plan to take a break from the computer, which is good timing since my laptop needs a new power cord.  I do however, plan to take my sketchbook and pencils/pens with me.  So I should have some sketches to post when I get back.  In the mean time, enjoy this coloring I did of a previous sketch.  I think I will make this my official break image….still give me feedback though.  Thanks!