Wahaha yes, that's right you might have thought you could slip it by me unsaid, but another fabulous little birdie told me today was your special day, and you know what that means~! Well, possibly a party, but also most assuredly that a piece of birthday gift-art is now in order!
This painting might not be too much, and honestly I have no idea where the inspiration came from as I was initially planning on making you something fun, funnier and more on the cartoony side. But for whatever reason when I sat down to draw, this was the ONLY image that would come to my mind and so I felt compelled to just go with it... hopefully you will enjoy it as well!
Meehee... I hope you won't hate me too much for doing this, but really you deserve it you know. *^_^* And I felt it was the least I could do. So yes, once again Happy Birthday dear, and wishing you all the best in this year to come~!
More art coming soon enough as well, everyone! Or if all goes according to plan, that is. Until then, do stay lovely~! <3
WD
87 comments:
Prance, Twilight, prance! (This was the closest thing I could possibly associate with this image). Quite nice to see a bit of Twilight around here, too - both episode-wise and art-wise! I particularly liked how you were able to mesh that creamy colour with Twilight's coat (I'm not great with colours, eeee).
Also I'm going to jump to ridiculous conclusions and say that the book is AAAALIIIIIIVEEE (well, only because Twilight's horn isn't glowing and there isn't any magical aura encasing the book itself) because it makes it seem a bit funnier (in my head anyway)
@Favo
That thing's been stuck in my head for the past couple of hours - Twilight, how can you still be so adorable in your attempt to troll us? (Confound you, Tara Strong!)
Anywho, happy belated birthday to you, Harwick! (Technically with all this wibbly wobbly timey wimey zone stuff it's the 11th here so... -shrugs-)
@Favo
EEP!! Oh my goodness dear, that story! As soon as you said "Diamond in the Rough" I was hardly able to contain myself since I loved that story (and of course, AbsoluteAnonymous used my fanart which definitely scored a bonus point or two), and I have to say that this new composition is without a doubt the best Rarijack fanfiction I have ever read. It was perfect and I absolutely loved it. Everything about that was so beautifully written, so poignantly at so many times, and I thought both ponies were very much in-character which shipping stories often fail to do. Really, I almost feel like it's my birthday now; thank you so very much for sharing that with me! <3
And haha "Twilightlicious", no... at least I can't say that the idea played any conscious role in my coming up with this artwork. Twilight is Harwick's favorite pony and so of course I knew I wanted to create something of her for his gift, and as I said in my opening post this mental image just came to me and would not leave. Yes.
Anyway thank you again for linking me to that excellent story which made my night, and it was very kind of you to wish Harwick a happy birthday as well. I'm sure he'll appreciate it! ^_^
@zhoomcar
Oh, you! You totally comment-ninja'd me there, dear. But anyhow, I'm very glad to hear that you appreciate the offering of Twilight Sparkle fanart as I know she's been sorely underrepresented on my blog for a while, and yes she does just happen to tie in perfectly with what I considered to be a great episode today. I only hope Harwick likes her as well as I know the painting's not perfect (**gazes with a scrutinizing eye**) but I only found out about his birthday a few days ago and I'm afraid didn't have as much time as I might have liked to get it done by today. Well, we shall see.
'The book is alive', you silly goober you. I guess I just figured it was floating through whatever that hazy luminous mass is as Twilight herself seems to be doing... yay for ambiguous cop-out backgrounds in images!
I've already said this on dA, but it bears repeating: Happy birthday, Harwick!
I wonder who that little bird could have been? ;)
It's always nice to see more Twilight Sparkle art, and while I think I can sorta see why you feel it's flawed, the good far outweighs the bad. I like the use of color in this drawing, and Twilight's expression is perfect for a birthday surprise, but my favorite detail is that one can actually see a drawing on one of the pages of the book. Overall, just a very charming, cheerful image.
And Favo, always good to see you commenting here too; don't be a stranger, OK? :)
I am just speechless! (I can still type though, otherwise I wouldn't be able to thank you...)
First, let me apologize for missing that this was even here earlier. As one of my favorite sites, I often leave a window open on this page and just refresh to see if any new comments appear, and I had one open to the last thread where we were discussing today's episode, and so never even realized a whole new thread had gone up until just now.
I'm really blown away and so totally delighted! I honestly had no idea that my birthday was known by anyone in fandom until random well-wishes started popping up. I'm sure it must be included on either Blogger or Deviant Art, although I haven't located where yet... how you were clued in days ago is beyond me.
I should critique Twilight for you, but I really can't stop grinning like an idiot when I look at her. Okay, I love the understated way you handled the color of her coat, the silky smooth color and shading of her mane and tail, the weightless feel of her, caught at the top of what reminds me of her "YesYesYes!" bounding pose... I even love that book... It looks so solid, like a hefty, satisfying read... the kind that gives such a nice "thunk" sound when you knock on the cover (What? Everyone does this with their leather-bound hardcovers, don't they?)
Seriously, I am so delighted right now at this generous gift from out of the blue. You are such a wonderful, charming woman and a dear friend, and you made my day!
@Favo
Thanks for the well-wishes, Favo! I had a rather tame birthday, actually, as things have been kind of hectic here recently, but the warm wishes of family, friends and even strangers from the fandom community have really made it pretty special none-the-less.
@zhoomcar
You made it in plenty of time here, zhoomcar, thank you... although I won't be getting any younger tomorrow, sadly, and so well wishes from the 11th would have appreciated anyway. There's no turning back from added year... damn timey wimey stuff.
@jodyjm13
I had my suspicions, as I had been completely surprised by Birthday greetings on Deviant Art not long ago (which are next on my responding list) and saw you leading the way. Thank you so much, both for the wishes and any role you might have played in events that led to this surprise! Even if it wasn't dedicated to me, I'd thank you for any role in getting WD to draw more Twilight. You're awesome.
First and foremost, Happy Birthday, Harwick! By some weird coincidence, your birthday ties in with my dad's and my sister's...=P
I suppose you should count yourself lucky to recieve such a gift, as these little surprises rarely come by. I would know, seeing as I've never recieved any in my life (I'm more of a giver). And what better way to say "Happy Birthday" than a good picture?
Mind you, had I known that it was your birthday, I would've tried to come up with something. I still feel a little guilty about missing Katie's, but what with college applications (which are now done, I'm glad to report) and my inability to multitask...well, you get the picture, no pun intended.
Many happy returns once again!^^
I don't know how to say this without "speaking fancy"...
It would only be fitting that Ponyville's most outstanding art director's devoted birthday art be undertaken by no less than Canterlot's highest of class fine artist. I'm surprised that anyone could find information about him, but this small detail has been put to respectable use. But before that, there is something of much higher importance:
@Harwick
Unfortunately, I don't have the ability to create anything in your honor (it doesn't matter what I'm making, I make it too slowly), but if I was a notable and impressive FiM fanart painter like some people I know, I certainly would. I feel privileged to have the opportunity to speak directly to such a well-regarded contributer to the fandom. The masterpieces that you have given the effort to make for us belong in a gallery to represent all artwork of the entire fandom. It is only work like yours that can remind me of how expansive and worthy visual art can be. It shows the true value of your craft, and how much skill it really takes to realise an imagined idea so accurately and with such great form and detail. When I inevitably try painting, I will have to look at them very closely (as I did with WhiteDiamonds' drawings). They are examples of what any artist in this community should strive to achieve.
Apart from artwork, you have accurate insights and a well-established understanding of the characters of the show. Though I find myself agreeing with them whenever you choose to express them, nearly every one of your comments still feels enlightening in some way. You are one of the best supporters of WhiteDiamonds' blog, and it is very much appreciated that someone like you would give any time to read comments from an anonymous stranger with nothing to show for himself like me or anyone from DeviantArt. I don't think I will ever quite get over the fact that I was in the same comment thread as you were, but it's a nice perceived illusion anyway. Your personality fits well with Diamonds', and just like her, you can appreciate the efforts of less experienced artists despite your obvious greatness in that field. You have not forgotten how to be an enjoyable person to talk to and your participation in this small group does not go unnoticed.
Oh my goodness! I'm so sorry that I didn't return to reply back last night, Harwick and others, as I intended to, but a very strange thing happened to me. My heart was doing its annoyingly-thumping, beat-skipping thing again so I took a new pill from my doctor that was supposedly the same as the old medication I've been on, but it started making me feel like I'd had far too much to drink and... the next thing I knew I woke up and it was 6am here. Suffice to say I don't think I'll be trying that again... @_@
@Harwick
*ahem* Well, anyhow though, yay Harwick you like your gift; I'm so incredibly happy to hear that! <3 There is no need at all to thank me my friend, none whatsoever, as your obvious surprise and what seems to be genuine delight is more than enough. ^.^ I'm just so thrilled that you like her is all. I know she's not perfect, and again I'd originally thought to make you something a little more lighthearted that I thought you could get a laugh or two out of, but this little Twilight just wouldn't leave me alone and so I had to paint her. I'm glad you approve of the somewhat different coloring technique (every now and again, I enjoy doing something new just to mix things up a bit!), the pose and yes, even that book because while it was a last-minute addition, it was something I knew I wanted to include. Thank you so much!
I hope you had an enjoyable day yesterday, as you really did deserve to. And thank you again for your praise of the artwork, and of me by extension... it really was my pleasure. *^_^*
Digital hugs to you, friend~! <3
@jodyjm13
Yes indeed, that little bird deserves a great deal of thanks, and I very much appreciate the covert tip-off. ^_~ Thank you very much for your praise of Twilight, Jody, and it doesn't surprise me at all that you have picked up on some of the small detriments that have also caught my eye... I might have tried to work on and polish this piece a little bit more but of course, it was a time-sensitive project and I was truly striving to have it done in time. What matters most to me though is that Harwick likes it, and he seems to. Oh, yes, and thank you for the mention of Twilight's expression also... I wasn't sure if it was the best choice but I was imagining this almost as the cover for a birthday greeting-card, and so just went with it.
Again, thank you my friend for everything. All of your words are very much appreciated!
@CaineScroll
Oh, dear, I didn't realize I'd missed Katie's birthday also... it makes me wonder how many of the rest of you might have celebrated in silence without ever letting me know so that I would not be able to make you something! But I suppose all I can do is to try and make up for that now, when I'm able.
And really darling, nobody ever gives you nice surprises just out of the blue? Well that is entirely unacceptable!
@Kein
Yes indeed, Harwick prefers his ponies on the adorkable side, and I suppose I can't say that I blame him... Twilight really does make for some charming moments in the series. I really need to draw a lot more of her myself, along with Fluttershy, Pinkie Pie, Rainbow Dash.... well, and most every other pony that is not Applejack and certainly not Rarity, I suppose~ ^^;
@Anon
Well again I will say that a particular little bird who I know was kind enough to tip me off about Harwick's birthday several days ago, and for that I am most grateful. I really doubt I would have ever found out on my own otherwise. But yes, he certainly did deserve the surprise and I have to say I think your post was beautifully written my dear (I'm sure he will treasure the sentiments), and I must thank you also for that lovely side compliment to me as well. You truly are incredibly sweet, and I hope you realize that I value you and your contributions to our discussions just as much!
@Favo
Oh, absolutely yes... that story was like sweet dessert wine and chocolate to my romance-obsessed heart, my dear, and once again I must thank you for bringing it to my attention (I only wish I could let the author know, but alas in this instance I don't have a FIMfiction account. Maybe I should make one just so that I can tell her...). I loved the deep introspection of it and how the whole thing unfolded as seen through Applejack's eyes, exploring her innermost feelings, and again I really enjoyed the way that both ponies were written. Also, I have to say that the whole issue of dealing with one's sexuality was immensely well-written in my opinion... I'm not sure if the author has ever had to deal with any of that herself or not, but I know that I at least found all of it to be incredibly believable in how it was handled (I think, for that alone I would have loved the story, even if it was AppleDash or something). Granny Smith nearly made me tear up.
Anyhow, yes, thank you again for that. And my birthday, hmm? I actually prefer not to tell you that, because I can only imagine that people might then try to do equally sneaky things to me, as I have done to Harwick here! And of course we can't have that! So no no no I'm afraid I must refuse my dear, though I suppose maybe if you pestered me about it enough via email I might decide to give in and tell you...
@WhiteDiamonds
Oh dear, I meant to say "detractions" in my post to Jody, not detriments, oh well. I suppose I am still feeling a bit... hungover, despite not having drank anything in over a week. That's definitely no fun... at least I would have liked to have earned this feeling, I must say!
@WhiteDiamonds
Oh dear, that heart thing again? I'd hug you if I could, my friend, but the hundreds of miles between us...bummer. In the meantime, do take care of yourself!
I supposed it's unfair to say that I've never recieved any surprises...they just turn out very...UNsurprising. One of these outcomes usually happen:
-They're too busy to plan anything.
-They forgot about whatever occasion they're supposed to surprise me for.
-They ruin it by saying "I've got a surprise for you soon".
I suppose the first real surprise for me in ages would be by dear Ponydora, for several reasons. And it's not for my birthday, no, there's still a whopping four months until that happy occasion.
I have a couple of opinions itching to be dished out, but I'll save them for fear of giving anyone ideas.
Ta for now.
@CaineScroll Thanks for the birthday wishes! Again, it was quite unexpected as I wasn't even aware anyone knew my birthday, so there's certainly no reason you should have known about it. The friendly interaction here is certainly all I could hope for out of online friends, and I'm quite thankful to have it, above and beyond the chance to converse with other talented artists like yourself.
@Kein
My affection for Twilight was perhaps more apparent in the earlier days of my gallery, when she was the subject of most every image I put up. I've spread out a bit more since, but she's still my favorite.
@Anon
Thank you for the kind and flattering words! I'm more than happy to share this community with yourself and all of the posters that make conversing here such a pleasure. You're a huge part of this community, often keeping discussion going single handedly, and I always enjoy your detailed posts and discussions with WD about her artwork and your own process, as well as the many and varied other viewpoints and topics you bring up. Every artist should be so lucky as to have such a devoted and insightful fan at their sites.
@Favo
I suppose it's sad in a way how milestones are marked with less and less property damage as we get older. I guess one has to step aside and let the younger generations make their marks on the world instead. Their smoking, scorched-earth marks.
@WhiteDiamonds
I may not have to thank you, but I'm surely not enough of a cur to skip doing so. I was quite delighted, and if this Twilight was the image that demanded to be done, who are either of us to argue with her? She's too adorable. You may as well scold a puppy for not being a kitten... and what kind of monster would do that?
Thanks again, and digital hugs back at you. I'll send those via my ipad, as my desktop monitor's not all that huggable.
Now do please take care of yourself, feel better soon, and I hope your doctor can rectify whatever that was that happened with your new medication. We're all quite fond of your heart, and would prefer it behave itself with a respectable number of beats per minute.
@CaineScroll
Yes, unfortunately it has been... bothering me again over the past couple weeks, off-and-on. I don't know why because I've done everything that my doctors have told me to try (vitamin and lots of mineral supplements, medication for stress management, drinking electrolyte beverages, cutting out caffeine entirely and increasing my salt intake because apparently, I don't ingest enough sodium and have low blood pressure as a result). I really don't know what the cause may be, but I did at least get my blood drawn the other day (ew ew ew) for analysis so hopefully they'll be able to tell me something in a day or two which might help me.
And well, I think that's terrible dear; everyone deserves to receive lovely surprises on occasion! You are certainly no exception.
Regarding opinions, hmmm..? I hope you wouldn't be uncomfortable sharing anything you might be thinking here, you know, as I don't believe any of us would ever judge you!
@Harwick
*^_^* I am so incredibly happy that you enjoyed your gift dear Harwick, truly I am... I don't think I can express that enough really. Thank you again for the lovely words, and regarding myself as well... I promise you that I'll do my best to find out what's been ailing me and rectify the problem accordingly. I have another doctor's appointment tomorrow morning, actually, so we shall see what they have to say.
@Harwick
Aww, it was nothing.^^ I always like to wish everyone a "Happy Birthday" provided I know their birthdates. Even if I can't make anything in time as a gift, it's still the thought that counts.
@WhiteDiamonds
Just be sure to follow what the doctors say, and you'll be alright in a jiffy. If you require a higher salt intake, seafood might do the trick.
Don't worry too much about me. I always like a good surprise like anyone else, but I've learned not to expect too much (or any) of them, given that my special occasions occur in a come and go fashion for the past decade or so. Like I said, I'm more of a giver. Just because I don't get surprises doesn't mean I shouldn't give surprises those who deserve them.=)
@CaineScroll
Heheh well, regrettably I am allergic to most seafood, aside from fish itself so that probably wouldn't be the best idea for me, but otherwise I have been and will continue to follow all of the advice my doctors give me. I can only hope it will start making a genuine difference soon.
And well, I do worry about you on occasion, truth be told. But I also agree that I enjoy giving people gifts and surprises just as much if not more than I enjoy receiving them.
@Favo
Thank you for that anyway, my dear... I appreciate the care and concern. I've been feeling okay over the past few days anyway, albeit it a little more tired than usual.
I'm now being referred to a cardiologist, sometime within the week with any luck. So hopefully they might be able to help me and figure out what's been going on with me.
@WhiteDiamonds
I was hoping you weren't allergic to seafood...well that complicates things a bit. I don't think there's much more I can add except to get plenty of rest and take care of yourself.
Haha, I get the feeling about giving out surprises, though I have a tendency to leave clues to what I'm planning. It's a habit I'm trying to get rid of.
@Favo
Funny, your last comment reminded me of that Fluttershy image with the "It's to dangerous to go alone" header...I'm not going to put up a link because I think you have another .gif war you need to attend to. (chuckles)
@CaineScroll
Yes, unfortunately I am... it did not make my life especially easy when I traveled to Japan, I'll tell you that. But it's okay and I've taken it as an excuse to eat some things which I very much enjoy but don't generally allow myself to indulge in too much (NACHOS **cough~**) so yes, at least that is something of a plus.
Otherwise, just more doctor appointments! Since none of them have suggested or found anything thus far which has made anything of a substantial difference.
On the topic of surprises, I'd like to say more myself, but you're right in that that does tend to give people too many ideas. So I'm afraid I must keep it zipped up for now. ^_~
@WhiteDiamonds
I may not write as well as you always have, but I thank you for your appreciation of whatever I did to sound comparable. It's nice that there isn't any sort of favoritism here, and you can enjoy anyone for their own unique qualities. I guess you have to treat everyone with acceptance to maintain a wide audience. There is much to be said and done, but for now, I will be glad if I can do anything in return for what the people of this blog have given back to the rest of us. Anything that you say about me is twice as true of you.
It seems you have added another story to my ever-growing mental list. I can respect a well-written story (At least, it must have been good to merit four thank-yous) regardless of its theme. Disregard stereotypes; aquire sappiness. Besides, it might even serve as an art inspiration for someone.
There isn't much that I can say about your birthdate, due to the fact that I cannot hide my ambitions despite not being skilled enough to attempt such a thing. Mine is on the other end of the Mayan calendar (it's a circle, see?) from Harwick's. (Actually, that would be September 10th. Close enough.) I might not even know any of you by then, so no need to worry about surprising me. Even though I like surprises...shame.
I think that must be one of the worst things that your condition has ever caused. You actually fell unconcious? Well, I suppose it wouldn't be the first time, but that is very serious. I would be surprised that you can even live on your own with such a thing. Whoever gave you that prescription clearly did not diagnose the problem very well. Really, of all the people in the world, you really don't get anything like what you deserve. Your work should have publicity and your name should be known (and preferably not by a pseudonym), not limited to a small fanart blog and couple people who are lucky enough to have found you in this ocean of internet profiles and blogs. Just don't let go of your dreams, and don't stop for reality's sake. Nothing is ever created before someone strives for it first.
And finally, the art piece itself. Everyone else has said more about it than I can, as it's very simple in design, but I think it looks sort of...abstract? I know what you mean about having these strange ideas that won't leave your head. I have had them before (yes, despite not being an artist), but usually I force myself to ignore it and go with something safer. Harwick liked it anyway, and it means that we get more Twilight, so I like it. I think the best part is actually the book. Will we ever find out what its pages bear? Have we discovered what the really cool birthday present was?
Wait, did you say nachos?
@CaineScroll
Thousands of miles away, yet not a single mile apart.
It's pretty clear to me what those favors are (yes Diamonds, I'm doing it again), and I wonder why you would feel a need to speak so vaguely about it. I think it's good that we're all helping eachother however we can. (Was it a surprise? Did I spoil the surprise?)
@Harwick
Ah, my process...I couldn't be sure that anyone had even seen that comment until recently. I don't expect anyone to understand it, but variety of people is a big reason why conversation between them is interesting. I'm too much a scientist for my own good. But beyond that, as fans, we would never be here if it weren't for the generosity of the artist and the talent that they aquired through whatever means. I might be able to ramble about ponies, travel, and whatever I'm ranting about at the moment, but it's only in attempts at showing devotion to the ones who brought us all together. (Aside from just enjoying what others have to say, of course.) People like me may be "the life of the fandom", but you are its reason to live. Thank you as well for your compliments; it is gratifying for me to know that I could be of any small benefit to our local talent. I also find your posts to be very insightful (often leaving me to wonder why I hadn't thought of it so clearly before, which admittedly is not great for my ego). That observational skill and literacy is only more proof of your well-rounded quality not just as a person who is impressive with their drawing and painting skill, but as a person with thoughts that we would care to hear.
Not that I think there is much that you can say about that, but I thought you have generally been underappreciated until now (at least by me), so maybe I can make up for lost time. We're luckier than all of the DeviantArt users who will only know the things you made, but never the personality of the one behind them. We really have gathered an interesting group here, and if we all can enjoy eachothers' company one way or another, then we can make for a productive society here at this blog. Now I just need to make something for all of you...
@Anon
I neither confirm nor deny anything I think, do and say. Make your own speculations.
But for the record, PLEASE don't make me lengthen my list of moment-killers. It's already long enough.
This looks simply exquisite! It just replaced your Tron ponies as my new background! ^_^ I loves me some Twilight Sparkle. I should commission you to do an epic battle between Twilight and Trixie sometime.
Sorry for being a bit late on the comment! Thanks to a TB outbreak in the lab and hospital, I was the only person who could work. Which resulted in me having no sleep or breaks since Wednesday. Then led to me having to wear a hazmat suit all the time while I worked. So I was sweating, over-tired and started hallucinating that a cloaked figure was watching me work. So now I have a day off due to going crazy! Hooray!
It was nice to come back to such a nice piece of artwork from both you and Scrolls AGAIN!
@WhiteDiamonds
Oh right, Japan! I go completely gaga for sushi, and I'm sorry to hear that your allergies caused such an inconvenience during your trip...anyway, I suppose you could go for salad. Nothing can go wrong with a fresh bowl of greens, right? =D
@Kateasaurus
I think someone did do a Twilight/Trixie battle once, and it got featured in a Drawfriend. Still, I admit it would be fun to see a Di version sometime soon.
I'm sorry to hear you had such a tough time at the hospital, my friend, and I hope you spend the day off getting some much needed R&R! And besides, I can always count on Dexter to give you good company. (Cloaked figure? I can see where that came from!^^)
@WhiteDiamonds
So I was watching the latest episode of "Friendship is Witchcraft" that was released today (based on the Luna Eclipsed episode, and I happened to blink, rewind and double check something... Sure enough, when Twilight hands out books to the trick-or-treaters in the beginning, she gives the middle one a copy of "Diamond in the Rough", complete with your cover art.
It was nice to see I wasn't totally imagining seeing your artwork pop up in places.
As for the episode itself, it wasn't one of the stronger ones, but I did enjoy many of the gags (and the stealth cameo of Rarity was probably my favorite.)
@Harwick
Great catch! What a nice tribute to WhiteDiamonds! (Though she should have been credited, as they did with other artists whose work they used)
Poor Applesack, all she has going for her is eating apples. How will she ever gain the attention of the lovely and wealthy Charity? I'm sure it will involve robots, dinosaurs, evil twins, and gratuitous self-inserts.
I also noted that one of the other fanfics Twilight distributes, "Discordially Yours" is a callback to the embarrassing "Discord fanfic" referenced in "Cute from the Hip."
It wasn't the best FiW, but it still had its moments.
@PonydoraPrancypants
Though I can't really relate to FiW, not having watched a single episode, I like the sound of the little tribute they used.
And wow: robots, dinosaurs, evil twins and gratuitous self-inserts? I can't wait to read your upcoming sequel starring Highlight Startle and Grainbow Bash! ^.^
@CaineScroll
Hmm, you must be referring to the forthcoming bodice-ripper, "Cruller to be Kind: A Tale of Love, Lust, and Doughnuts," starring the meek and humble animal lover Buttershy and the effervescent, but mysterious gypsy pastry chef Twinkie Tie.
@Anon
I don't have to treat everyone with acceptance, and could merely tack my fanart up everywhere to let it spread on its own if it was only about attaining an audience, but I like to try because I feel it's the right thing to do. And, moreover, for the most part I genuinely do enjoy interacting with other members of the fan community.
But in any case, you're quite welcome dear and I did mean every word... I like to think that everyone's respective differences are what have made it fun to be able to get to know all of you. Regarding the story yes, I do highly recommend it if you're not opposed to the shipping as it was arguably the best-written Rarijack fiction I've read to date (for whatever that might be worth; I realize shipping stories in general often leave much to be desired), and again I think I liked it most because of the way it delved into Applejack's thoughts and feelings. The writing is very simple in a way and yet is almost poetic for its simplicity, kind of like how I often feel about dear Applejack herself come to think of it.
I think you might have misunderstood me somewhat regarding my health problems and what happened the other night... it wasn't actually my heart itself that was the trouble (or at least, I don't think so), but rather the medication that I took in an effort to help myself. You see, frequently when my heart starts acting up and doing its thing I get pretty distressed, because it begins skipping beats (very occasionally two in a row) in addition to beating at irregular speeds, and it's an immensely uncomfortable feeling. In fact, I now think the reason that I started having those spontaneous panic attacks I mentioned some time ago was because I was worrying about this all the time, subconsciously or no. My mother had given me some of her Ativan pills (a sedative) to help relax me in those times, and supposedly that's what the new pills were that the doctor had prescribed me so I took one, only apparently it was a ridiculously high dosage and so I passed out asleep for twelve hours before I'd even realized I'd hit my bed (which I must have, luckily, and even if I don't remember that part at all). So yes, not quite as bad as you seemed to have thought but still not fun at all.
Anyway though, as I said I should have an appointment with a cardiologist soon enough, so hopefully he or she will be able to help me because I'm very tired with living with all of this uncertainty and discomfort. But in the meantime I'm very happy to hear that you like Harwick's artwork (though I'm not quite sure what you mean by "abstract" in this instance), and I also must thank you for yet more kind words regarding myself... you have always been incredibly supportive of me my dear and I hope you realize I appreciate it.
Mmmmm, nacho. I really cannot lie; Mexican food rocks my world~ <3
@Kateasaurus
Oh my, darling, that sounds absolutely awful! O_o It's amazing to me to think that you just went through such a thing, and especially considering everything you've been going through with your own health. You are obviously something of a super-human individual though, much like my own sister who takes such chaos in stride (and dare I say it, even delights in it)... perhaps it's just a medical-person thing.
In any case there is never any need to apologize for a belated comment, and I'm only glad that you take the time at all as I've said before! It's lovely to hear that you enjoyed the picture and enough to consider it desktop-worthy, but I have to say I'm a little surprised at your reaction because I had no idea you were such a Twilight Sparkle fan... you're absolutely correct in that I really need to draw more of her though. Even if Anon is correct and there are already plenty of Twilight vs. Trixie showdown artworks in existence, I hardly think you should have to commission me for such a thing... that's one more potential project I need to put on my back-burner I suppose.
Anyhow though thank you once more for the kind feedback on my artworks, dearie; you know I always appreciate it. ^_^
@CaineScroll
Fortunately when I went on the trip, I did so in the company of a Taiwanese friend of mine who, while his Japanese was no better than mine, was able to understand the kanji on all of the menus and thus point me in the right direction. For all I know he might have saved my life on that trip, or certainly a great deal of discomfort and so I have to say I was very grateful for that!
I actually do like sushi quite a bit myself, or at least the varieties that I'm able to safely eat... unagi is probably my favorite. Oishii desu yo~
@Harwick
Hahaha, isn't that just the funniest thing! And thank you so much for letting me know Harwick-dear! I'll confess that I, like CaineScroll have actually never seen a single episode of "Friendship is Witchcraft" before, but at your mention I did go and check out that particular scene, and yes saw my fanart gracing the cover of that book (if only it was a genuine publication, alas~). Anyway thank you again for bringing it to my attention, and I have to say I'm impressed that you managed to spot such a thing, honestly.
@PonydoraPrancypants
We have discussed the former matter already, I do believe, so I will only say thank you once again for looking out for me and my interests, my friend. ^_~ You really are incredibly thoughtful.
@Kateasaurus
@WhiteDiamonds
I would so love to see you do an epic Twilight/Trixie battle.
Of course, it will be so very hard to top this one.
Hope I got that html right...
@Harwick
Oh, goodness yes I do believe that goes without saying. I should probably just give up now before I embarrass myself with my own attempts, honestly!
@WhiteDiamonds
@Harwick
Ooh... That's a tough one to top! :P
I'm still dying for a decent Spitfire picture that isn't "saucy". Poor girl.
@Kateasaurus
I know what you mean, dearie. It seems to me that it started with that whole "Join the REA" thing--one person drew a suggestive Spitfire for a mockup recruitment poster and the next thing we know, she's the unofficial go-to pin-up pony! Poor girl indeed.
I find it rather amusing (and just the slightest bit disappointing) that on days where I'm busy with work or otherwise indisposed, this blog is frequently humming with comments. Yet on days like today and yesterday where I have a bit more free time, replies seem to slow to a standstill! But I suppose that is just my luck, ah well~ ^.^;
@WhiteDiamonds
I never have much luck with free time and when people are active online. I'm just finishing up work for the night and it's nearly 2 am, and I think I'm still far behind where I need to be for the deadlines at the beginning of next week, so it's going to be a long weekend for me.
On the other hand, that means I'm at my computer pretty much 18 hours out of the day for the next few days, so I guess I won't be missing much as every few hours I need at least some kind of break.
@Harwick
I hope I didn't come off as whining about the situation when I made that remark (*ahem* OR complaining, as the case may be) but it just seems to be my poor luck when it comes to such matters... after all, I only just got back to Anon with my Sir Ian McKellen story yesterday, six whole days after he inquired about it (I am a bad Diamonds, I'm afraid~)...
But in any case, enough about me. That sounds a bit dreadful my dear friend and I'm terribly sorry to hear it, I only wish I could do something random to cheer you up a little! Like send you a batch of still-warm, fresh-baked chocolate chip cookies that I was planning on baking tomorrow... it really is a shame that we still don't have proper teleportation technology installed in our homes yet.
@Harwick
What I think is the real great catch is Rarity; I have searched all over the background of the "9 minute mark", but I never saw her*. I doubt she would ever be credited for such a thing any more than artists tend to be for the cover art of fanfictions (How would the people making FiW even determine who made it?), at least we get to see how it looks on a book. I think it fits even better than on the website.
I'm not sure why you both have a less positive impression of the episode, though. Maybe it's just because of my generation, since I got many of the references. (I immediately recognized the Sonic X theme song. I saw it a couple times when I was much younger, and you can't get much worse than that.) I remember when these things were popular. The only part that I didn't like was the "but fun"s. After the first three or so, I couldn't believe that they kept doing it. But other than that, I thought it was hilarious. I thought Zecora's voice was great, but it sounded like a recording. They even had an explanation for the fake teeth (Because vampires). I don't know about everyone else, but I liked a lot of the single lines, too. "I almost died!" "Because I scary." "I was framed!" I also like the Mentally Advanced series (Cockney Celestia was so well executed. The voice sounded professional.), but FiW is good too.
*After rewatching most of it for this comment, I happened to notice her. That EQD commentator lied.
@WhiteDiamonds
What I meant was that if you did not both interact with your followers and find ways to value each of their comments to make them feel welcome, then you could not be more than any of the fanartists with a name in community. It isn't as personal to tack your artwork up on a blog and mostly ignore all of the comments like most contributors do. It makes more sense for them, since they tend to get far more comments than an entry on this blog ever does, but I don't think they would be able to treat every commentator with equal acceptance the same way. I guess instead of "wide audience", I meant to say "wide range of conversational partners". But we have discussed this many times already.
If it was only caused by a strong sedative putting you to sleep, then yes, that isn't nearly as bad as what I was thinking... Usually, people pass out when they are suffocated, and if the heart cannot send oxygen to the brain, then it can cause brain damage. Twelve hours is an extremely long time for even a sleeping pill to take effect, though. I doubt that it could even be used to cure insomnia.
The reason why the artwork seems "abstract" to me is because I can come to no conclusion about the context. We can clearly see that Twilight is not standing on anything, and stranger still, a book is seemingly floating on its own. In cases like your wet mane Rarity, I could at least consider that I think it looks like a photo shoot, or she could be just about anywhere. But for this one, it is not so clear. Twilight could be jumping, but that does not explain the book. They could not be underwater, because the book would be tarnished. They could not be in space, because Twilight would have much more to worry about than the viewer behind her in that case. The best explanation is that she is being telekinetically lifted, but due to the aura being generally gold-colored, it have to be done by another character like Celestia. It's like how CaineScroll said that he had to go with an "abstract background" for his latest commission, because it would require gears, and gears do not tend to be visible on walls.
There is no obvious explanation. I know that it was not meant to be explained and really does not make sense in a realistic setting, but really, that's exactly what I was referring to. It isn't a bad thing, it's just the most that way of any other art piece on the blog.
"Even if Anon is correct and there are already plenty of Twilight vs. Trixie showdown artworks in existence"
I believe CaineScroll was the one to make that observation, but I would gladly take all the credit for it.
You have never watched FiW before, yet you understood a reference to Sweetie Bot? Is the character really that famous out of the series?
Actually, Spitfire's reputation has been that way since long before that poster was made. There are examples, but I trust you won't need them.
--Warning: Rant starts here.--
What I have been doing for the past few hours is finally looking through another day or two worth of EQD on the laptop. Why? Because ever since I finished work today, my father had not left his desk. Which, as I have said before, leaves my screen in full view. When he isn't using his computer, my sister is. She plays The Sims, but her computer cannot run the game. I could still work on my other project when she is there despite it being pony-related, due to the fact that she noticed and recognised it as MLP yesterday. It wasn't so bad, since she's in the same boat as I am, but I'm not sure I want to show off any of my first drawings. Not to her, anyway. It's hard, because I'm starting to miss my tablet. My computer is practically its own studio, but I just don't have the opportunity to use it for anything. As a person whom I like to consider creative and is just dying to make something to show off here on this blog, it's maddening. My sister might have to get a new computer before I can finally make a blog, and I can hardly stand it. I guess if I had the time then I could try to make use of my expensive music programs, or maybe just work with lines... But that wouldn't exactly develop my drawing and painting ability or further establish my artistic status, would it?
Speaking of which, this BroNYCon promotional picture caught my eye, since it seems to be the style that I was going for with my previous Line use. I think it's good to have variety, anyway.
@WhiteDiamonds
Oh no. I wasn't trying to chastise you for your... let's call it an "observation" (certainly not whining). I believe I've made the exact same one on your very own blog before. It was merely a clumsy 2 AM attempt to commiserate.
And yes... I've had this huge project due on the 20th for a while now, only to have some crucial feedback holding me up (and naturally, no word about extending the deadline.). Now I've suddenly had some emergency work for another game (through the same subcontractor) added on top. I've officially jumped into the reprise part of "Art of the Dress" for the next four days.
Only you would say "I wish I could do something random to cheer you up" in a thread already dedicated to surprising me with some lovely birthday artwork. Trust me, I'm still riding a warm and fuzzy high from that. Besides, have you seen the Jeff Goldblum version of "The Fly"? Teleporting cookies may have drastic consequences. Or at least add some unwanted protein.
@Anon
Any complaints about the episode are likely just due to unfair comparisons with the prior two, which featured such gems as Pinkie's Brew and Sweetie Bot. (I swear Pinkie's Brew is catchy enough to be an actual Pinkie song, especially the extended version.)
@Anon
Forgive me, but I'm going to have to do a Favo here...
"I believe CaineScroll was the one to make that observation, but I would gladly take all the credit for it."
Was that second part really necessary? B[
What did you guys think of the episode? I loved Spike's journey on this one, with the atmosphere and music. Also, more Spike / Rarity is always a good thing. (I was quite happy to hear "Spikey Wikey" again, asdfghjkl.) And another thing: Exploring masculine values? On My Little Pony? Unheard of!
Crackles the dragon is the most fabulous dragon, is he not?
@WhiteDiamonds Seth seemed to be quite obsessed with those "Join the REA" drawings for a while. Seemed like every time I opened EQD I cringed after seeing one on a random post. I just see Spitfire so differently in my head, it doesn't compute seeing her flaunting her plot all over the place. It reminds me of something a former male friend of mine said to me once. He had this vision in his head that when I was playing video games, I sat around in my underwear and a low-cut tank top flirting with everyone over chat. (In reality it's more so me in some PJ pants with holes, an over-sized t-shirt, shoveling chips in my mouth while I yell at the other nerds in game.) Point being: The imagination of others is a very, very disturbing place sometimes.
Also, I always feel like I miss out on when everyone is commenting! Or I'll reply to someone, and wait for a response back that never comes. If only I could clone myself... then I'd have someone else to annoy with conversation. ~_^
@zhoomcar
Crackle is a very special dragon indeed.
I loved the episode... it had a touch of everything I was hoping it would have. We got some touching bits between Spike and Twilight, some funny bits from Rarity (absolutely loved her "rip you to pieces!" line delivery, as well as being "toast of the trench"), some jerk-face dragons and a bit of world building. Lots of little continuity touches as well, right up to the end with all of the photos (I nearly did a spit-take when I saw that Spike had pasted himself into the group portrait from Twilight's birthday party in Canterlot.) Between Spike and Pee-Wee I'm beginning to think poor Twilight is living in a parchment lined death trap... good thing her teleportation skills are growing (although it was interesting to see her botch that one attempt.)
I really enjoyed this one, and it was among the season highlights for me.
@Harwick
How does poor Crackle even manage to get by on eight tiny legs and those stubby wings? He seems like an easygoing sort, so I suppose it doesn't bother him.
I'm with you, Harwick. I greatly enjoyed the episode. I was amazed that they had two crazy Friendship is Witchcraft coincidences in a row: first Gypsy Pinkie and now Rarity in the "trenches." ("Not the trenches!") Probably my favorite things in this episode were what was happening on screen without dialogue: the phoenixes, the adult dragons lazing about on the sides of the caldera, Twilight's magic, Rarity's opera glasses, and Spike's pasting of himself into the picture.
I skimmed the comments on EQD, and it seems that this was a fairly divisive episode, with fans either loving it or hating it. I loved it.
@Anon
Well, yes, I guess that's exactly it--I interact with my followers and those who take the time to comment on my work because I enjoy doing so. I suppose most artists who post their work online to share it don't do so because it isn't important to them, or at least I would assume not since many don't make the effort.
I'm afraid I don't quite follow what you mean about 'twelve hours being a long time for a sleeping pill to take effect', but otherwise yes I'm glad it's not as bad as you were initially imagining. On the matter of the Twilight picture, I suppose the background (or lack thereof) was merely my way of doing a semi-nice pony-painting for Harwick without spending too much of the little time I had on creating an appropriate background, so that I could instead devote more time to Twilight herself. But feel free to imagine the pale yellow as a placeholder for whatever else you'd prefer the setting to be if that makes you feel better (such is the beauty of ambiguous cop-out backgrounds I guess; they allow far more room for creative interpretation!).
I am familiar with Sweetie Bot only because of a conversation that Forderz and I once had via email, otherwise no I doubt I would have had any clue what you were referring to when you previously mentioned it on CaineScroll's blog. And speaking of CaineScroll, I'm surprised I would credit you for something he said but it seems that I did... though honestly, even thinking about it now I was sure there was a reason for my bringing up your name when I did. Even though now I can't remember what that reasoning might have been, ah well~
Now, this is merely a suggestion dear and I can understand if you don't find it agreeable, but have you ever considered practicing your drawing and such on paper so that the whole matter of computer privacy wouldn't be a constant issue? You might not be able to get the artwork into a digital format later if you'd been hoping to share it, but if it's simply a matter of getting some practice in I don't see why it wouldn't work better for you.
Oh yes, and before I forget to mention it that Bronycon poster is definitely fabulous. Rarity is almost too lovely for her own good yet I adore her for it.
@Harwick
You poor thing you, that definitely does sound pretty awful. I'm sorry that you've unexpectedly had so much work piled on top of you that is all so time-sensitive (I hate when that happens). And yes, I can certainly empathize with feeling like you're living through the reprise of "Art of the Dress"... I've said it before but that episode and that song are what made me a Rarity fan (and a FiM fan) to begin with, and I doubt I'll ever get over how much I adore them both.
And ah, yes, I suppose that is true... well I just felt sorry and would have liked to do something else for you is all. ^.^; But I'm glad if Twilight is still able to bring you some happiness, that's nice to know! As far as your question no, I have not seen the entire movie at least, but do remember my brother watching it when I was a six-year-old and seeing a particular... arm-wrestling scene. Suffice to say I've never had much desire to revisit that particular traumatic memory at any time since.
@CaineScroll
Though he probably would have found a way to say it with animated gifs and/or YouTube links. In any case, my apologies for that, dearie!
@zhoomcar
Ah yes, I had a feeling that this subject would be breached here sooner or later~
Overall, I enjoyed the episode as well... while I'd not say I was disappointed by it or anything like that it was not in my list of favorites, but still I found it enjoyable enough. It was nice to see Spike finally get some more attention and character development in the series, and I especially loved the scene in the beginning with him and Twilight because I think they've been overdue for such on-screen relationship building for a while now. Rarity of course was fabulous throughout (I adored that excuse for what she apparently considered to be appropriate camouflage), and I'll agree that a lot of the interaction between she and Spike was amusing, if not at all in a shipping context as many people will doubtless interpret it (sometimes I feel I'm the only person who thinks so, but I really can not imagine anything other than an innocent familial relationship between those two. And in this case, I think my affinity for Rarijack has little to do with it; it's more like the fact that the age difference makes it more than just a little creepy in my opinion).
I also enjoyed seeing delightfully assertive Fluttershy, the novel character dynamic of Twilight, Rainbow Dash and Rarity, and the return of phoenixes in the series because they are just too nifty to not demand more screentime. Oh yes and I quite agree with Harwick that those photos at the end were a lovely little touch; I especially loved the one with Twilight and baby Spike, so sweet!
@Kateasaurus
That is.... definitely more than just a little bit disturbing to hear, and I could counter with some similar stories involving a friend of mine but I really think I prefer not to revisit the memories. Why can't people ever just enjoy something at its purely innocent face value, I have to wonder??
In any case, I have to agree; more (non-saucy) Spitfire fanart is certainly in order!
@PonydoraPrancypants
I remarked on it already in an EqD comment, but it still bears repeating that indeed, Rarity with her opera glasses was one of those little touches that I so love about this series (as well as her character, though I think that hardly needs to be said). I agree with you in that all of those things that you mentioned were some of my favorite aspects of the whole episode. ^_^
@WhiteDiamonds
It's nice to hear from at least one other person who thinks that shipping Rarity and Spike is distasteful! I also feel like I'm the only one. I cannot post my thoughts on the matter on Equestria Daily for fear of have my digital head bitten off by the teeming masses, but I echo yours wholeheartedly (because of the age difference and, a little bit because of my affinity for Rariblue, perhaps). This episode more or less confirms (for me at least) that she thinks of him in a sisterly way, at most. I think at lot of the younger male fans get on board with Spike because he is (a) the only male and (b) has a hopeless crush on "the pretty, popular girl." Maybe they have had this experience before, and they want to root for the underdragon. Whatever the case, this whole idea certainly provides ample fodder for fanart and fanfiction.
@Kateasaurus
Wow. That idea is without a doubt one of the most disturbing ones I've seen on this blog so far. Frankly speaking, I've always pictured you in a dark shirt and jeans (which isn't hard, now that I know what you look like), but that's just me. I know a bunch of people in MBS who have...er...issues with their imagination, but let's not go there. =P
True, the majority of Spitfire pictures out there consist of mainly sauce, if not R34(eww)...however, I did like the one portraying her as a beach pony, thankfully with minimum sauce.
And if you'd like, I can always annoy you upon request. Just sayin'.^_~
@zhoomcar
Anybody else thinks that Crackle's the dragon equivalent of Derpy?
I liked the new episode as well; the FiM crew has a knack of taking a recurring theme and adding their own little titbits inside...however, I have to admit that the dragons' designs were a little too stereotypical...I found them somewhat reminiscent of the Gangreen Gang from PPG (DON'T get me started on them).
Personally, I neither like nor hate the Spike/Rarity relationship, so I don't think I have much to comment on that. But it was nice to see Fluttershy going into DefCon 4...again. Her escape was a really nice touch---doing everything in a frenzied state and still manages to open the window gently before dashing off.^^
I also loved the phoenixes; they're my favourite mythical creature to date, and their design in FiM was more accurate compared to some other phoenixes I've seen...putting a long tail on a pigeon does NOT make it a phoenix. They also stayed true to the original concept of the phoenix by giving them the ability to burst into flame, which I thought was really cool. And of course, I loved the chicks, though I have to wonder...do phoenixes usually live in trees? o_O
The pictures at the end of the episode were a bit of a highlight in my opinion...especially the last one which mirrored a scene from Lilo & Stitch. There was one problem though: In the first picture with the newly hatched Spike, Twilight appears to be fully grown and the picture was taken in the Ponyville Library. Funnily enough this error appears right after the time travel episode! =P
Finally, Spike officially has the best pet. Also, as of this episode, all three creatures possessing the cores needed for wands at Ollivanders' (unicorn hair, phoenix feather, dragon heartstring) now live under one roof. Apparently someone on the FiM team is a Potter fan. =D
@CaineScroll
Time error, eh? Seeing as she does have possession of a time spell... shame it's one use only. Or is it?
I did not enjoy the middle sections of the episode as much due to the fact that we didn't really end up learning a whole heap about dragons, and got little insight into anything they did apart from their fondness of tail wrestling, belching, petty theft and smashing eggs. (save for Crackle, he is awesome), and throughout the episode I was kinda looking around for any nods towards video games, but to no avail. (But Solid Sparkle was in that last episode! Huuuh?) Spike's Dragon Quest did turn into a dungeon raid (forest raid?) however.
Overall the last couple of episodes hasn't really swayed my opinion on anypony in the Mane 6 just yet (they were still good, though!), however they have introduced a few great one-off characters (Iron Will), but I guess we'll have to wait and see how the next episode (more Fluttershy!) pans out. The premise for that one looks interesting.
@Kateasaurus
I'm not sure if it's consolation or not, but I can pretty much only picture you in a full hazmat suit after that last anecdote from your work, and likely a completely inaccurate, overwrought Hollywood style one. I can't imagine it's easy to play video games in, either. But it does give me a much cooler mental image of you than I have of most online people.
@PonydoraPrancypants
"How does poor Crackle even manage to get by on eight tiny legs and those stubby wings?"
Pure unbridled charisma.
I'm surprised that people had issue with that episode, but then there are always some who expect some kind of epic worldbuilding and forget that there needs to actually be a complete (and somewhat silly) plot included within 22 minutes for the target audience. I never imagined that we'd get a deep low-down on dragons, or uncover secrets of Spike's past, so while watching Spike get bullied for 5-10 minutes wasn't super deep, it wasn't massively disappointing for me either.
@WhiteDiamonds
"I interact with my followers and those who take the time to comment on my work because I enjoy doing so. I suppose most artists who post their work online to share it don't do so because it isn't important to them, or at least I would assume not since many don't make the effort."
Ouch. (I know that wasn't aimed at me in a negative way, but it does trigger the guilt.) Honestly, that's why I was so reluctant to put up a Deviant Art page at all... I feel ungracious that I don't respond to every post that goes up on it. But the bare bones participation was my compromise when people kept asking me for a central site for my pictures.
Anyway, I basically knew that if I responded there, it would be responding to every post and I'd be trading participation elsewhere online in order to find the time. I didn't want to give up other sites like EQD or here and spend all of my online "pony" time discussing my own work. I still feel bad about not thanking everyone individually for their time and comments though.
As for my weekend from hell, it turned out a bit more manageable when the looming deadline was indeed pushed back due to delays from the client. (I'm fairly certain the subcontractor had shaved time off of the actual delivery day when assigning it to me to give themselves more wiggle room.) So while still chained to my computer this weekend, it hasn't been nearly as stressful as predicted.
@PonydoraPrancypants
@WhiteDiamonds
I know that myself and Jody as well have both come down on the "just friends" side of things when it comes to Rarity's affections towards Spike. One of the things I watched for with interest in this latest episode was if they had substantially changed the way they were going to refer to Spike. Clearly they can't expect a relationship to be acceptable when they keep calling him a "baby" dragon. I figured that if I were mistaken and they actually did intend to have us consider the two a couple they would take the opportunity to rebrand Spike during this episode... have it be like a dragon version of a bar mitzvah... "You are now a man (dragon), my boy". It looked like they were kind of going that way for a bit, but then they ended up calling him a "rookie" dragon. If that term shows up again instead of "baby", then I'll consider the possibility that the show is considering heading in a romantic direction for him and Rarity. But really, all I saw this episode was more evidence that, although she adores him, she's not interested in him that way. I get all the signals that she's dealing with his crush the way many do... Keeping things innocent and just waiting it out, trusting that when he's older he'll actually fall for someone suitable instead.
@CaineScroll
I hadn't made that "Lilo and Stitch" connection, but it does hold, doesn't it? I'm not 100% sure that is the Ponyville Library, although it's the closest match of the backgrounds we've seen. Still, we could assume it's just a library in Canterlot with round bookshelves if we want to give the show a break.
The phoenixes look pretty awesome in MLP, don't they? Some of the best screenshots of that episode, artistically, come from the bits with the phoenix parents. I do hope little Pee Wee shows up again soon. I'd still really like the pets to show up in the same way that background ponies do... Not being involved in the plot, but hanging out behind the action more often.
@zhoomcar
Are you looking to have your opinions of the mane six swayed? I'm pretty pleased with all of them myself, so an episode that alters my perceptions of them might not be a good thing in my book.
The promo for the Fluttershy episode did look pretty interesting. Some heavy pegasus action to come next week!
Well, I got my St. Patrick's Day wish; Irish Lyra. She's Lyrish, from Lyreland.
I don't even own any green clothing, despite my last name being Irish (my grandfather was born in Northern Ireland, making it easier for me to get dual citizenship). I guess I should go play a fiddle in shame.
@Harwick
I would like to say that I can relate, due to my workload also being constantly added to (and leaving me to wonder what I had agreed to a year ago), but still I know that you have it much worse than I do. My father has worked with subcontractors as well, except he is the person to hire them (or he would be, if he liked using them). You must be saving your client(s) a lot of trouble, but I think you should get some monetary compensation for it. I guess your contract states that you will finish the job no matter the unexpected requirements, but that's hardly a reassuring contract.
There isn't much that I can say about the episode that hasn't been noted already (my feelings about it were much the same as WhiteDiamonds'). I thought that the taped picture at the end was the best part, but the teenage dragons were...as I expected. They brought to mind a time when I was 3 years old and watching a VHS film of The Land Before Time, which featured a very similar teenage male dinosaur. If I recall correctly, he sang a song about "bigger is better" and left with parting line, "See ya, don't want to be ya" (I can't believe someone has put them together already). It made me think I should never be a teenager, because clearly they have all let go of their morals. Back then, I saw people in three different age groups: Children, who understand morality and are smart enough to do as they are told by an adult, adults, who are much like children except that they have the power and knowledge to govern any situation, and teenagers, who constantly use words like "dude" and "like", and act the way I described. I had never met a teenager, but I had the impression that they all inexplicably forgot their sense of morality and somehow became much less intelligent. It isn't hard to believe, with the proganists of children's entertainment always being young children with perfect intentions. But now, I am on my second last year of high school, and my ethnics are largely unchanged. My past self would never have predicted that I would grow up to be such an information and intelligence-oriented or well-justified person. I have never been anything like those dragons. I see a new generation growing up watching MLP, and getting the exact same message. This is their Land Before Time, and they are going to believe the exact same thing as I did, because it is the only thing they know.
But yes, apart from that, most of the episode was about the group's activities so isn't much more that I can say about it. Rarity gave some much-needed highlights to scenes like the trench, and Crackle is best dragon. (Harwick-Spike is a close second.)
"Crackle is a very special dragon indeed."
Special? Do you mean to imply that the My Little Pony: Friendship Is Magic character "Crackle the Dragon" is derpy? What a terrible comparison to make, you awful ableist. Now we need to cut his name out of the episode as well.
It's understandable that you wouldn't respond to so many of your comments as WhiteDiamonds does to hers, since you are the type of contributer that I was referring to, who gets far more comments than WhiteDiamonds ever does. Even if you bothered to respond to each one, most of them probably wouldn't even see it. I can see myself just skimming the comments and possibly replying to the ones that catch my interest. I wouldn't make such a good blogger as WhiteDiamonds is.
@CaineScroll
Hey, you know I was only kidding. I can't just take credit for the observation that easily.
"now that I know what you look like"
Oh, brag, brag.
(There is also a particular owl living in the library that should be accounted for.)
@Kateasaurus
"Or I'll reply to someone, and wait for a response back that never comes."
I can imagine that was somewhat directed at me (and in case I wind up doing it again after this, you'll have to forgive me in advance). It's just that, after the second reply, there isn't always much else to say. After I give my perspective on something and you give yours, it's a question answered. It always drove me crazy when people my age would respond to my every message with "cool" (or, worse still, "okay"). (Yes, even though they were technically programmers. The worst of the best, if you will.) As you might expect from me, this is often in response to a long story or explanation of something. It made me feel like they didn't care. Even though it seems that they did, and they even once spoke to eachother in private about how much it would bother me. However, there was one whom (I never use the word "whom", so I'm not sure if I'm using it correctly), when he had nothing to say, he would say nothing. That was something that I could relate to (among many other things), and he became the only person I kept in contact with ever since. We really do enjoy your company, and it isn't personal.
A former male friend? Well, I can see why. He would have had to be perverted enough to think so in the first place, but he even had the nerve to tell you. It's one thing that he seemed to think you looked attractive, but that's going too far. I certainly wouldn't want anyone to imagine me that way.
I think that the Wonderbolts have a lot of potential that fans have not made use of. After so much character development for Octavia and Vinyl, why not the Wonderbolts? Their character designs rival that of future Twilight, after all. They are famous, so they probably live in a luxurious high-level condominium or hotel, with large windows and bodyguards. There is a lot that comes along with fame, though. Celebrities have many influences like endorsements, alcohol and drugs from partying and associations with people and organizations with any kind of bad reputations that they might not know about. Spitfire would be especially susceptible to these things, since everyone wants to make a profit from the lone female role model. It's possible she had to "prove herself" the way you have described before. The Cloudsale construction workers were all male. Rainbow Dash's racing opponents were all male. The two Wonderbolts seen in the last moment of Sonic Rainboom under each of Dash's arms were both male. Spitfire may not be the only female flier on the team, but she is probably the best, and she is working to prove to all the young girl pegasi that the bullies are wrong, and their dreams can come true.
@Kateasaurus
When you're famous, there are paparazzi around every corner. Tabloids are always trying to make your every step sound like a fall from grace. According to my interpretation of her, Spitfire is physically and mentally strong, but she's still a young woman with no business or legal experience, and she has her limits. She probably had to let go of any family or friends she had when she accepted a life of stardom, but if she had them, they would probably be begging her for money. Everyone would; especially businesspeople that will try to bend the law to impose legal obligations on the performers. Each Wonderbolt has practiced trick flying since they were old enough to fly, but once they get out into the working world, they find that it's all about making money. Every higher-up and every middleman is just trying to make a profit from their passion. Are the current Wonderbolts the original team, or do they have a long history and tradition to uphold? The only ones that she would have to take comfort in are her teammates. Because Spitfire and Soarin' seem to be team leaders of some sort, they would probably interact most with eachother. But while they are both the best of their kind, Spitfire is also the only one of her kind. Soarin' would care more about enjoying himself than stressing over the details, taking life in stride and being himself while everything just works out for him. If he makes a mistake, the press would not pay as much attention because there are plenty of others like him to keep track of. He doesn't need to be a perfect role model, since he is only one of many. He would not understand Spitfire's troubles, at least not unless he saw them first-hand. She can't even make friends, or else they will be hailed as such. That attention would be enjoyable at first, when everyone wants to know about you. But eventually, they will focus on your inadequecies as flaws. Why aren't you as talented as your acclaimed acquaintance (or famed friend)? She can't have any sort of romantic life, because eventually, the world will notice that her "friend" is more than a friend. Everyone she meets will blame her for getting them into this mess.
The stress of that life, with the media watching your every move and with so many people of all ages depending on you to always make the right decision might be enough to make her slowly become something like the "REA" Spitfire, instead of the Spitfire that achieved greatness. It's a hard way up, but such a hard way down. Only then would she realise that she lost sight of who she is, and try to mend her public image in the eyes of the ones who care about her rather than give in to corruption and greed. It would teach her a lesson of responsibility, that when fame and fortune is either too abundant to matter anymore, or too demandingly absent to ignore, the only thing that you really have to maintain is yourself.
...And now I've written concept for a fanfiction. I should probably stop now. Yes, I wish there was more attention given to themes like "Behind the scenes with The Wonderbolts".
@WhiteDiamonds
"And yes, I can certainly empathize with feeling like you're living through the reprise of "Art of the Dress"... I've said it before but that episode and that song are what made me a Rarity fan (and a FiM fan) to begin with, and I doubt I'll ever get over how much I adore them both."
I don't tend to use such strong words, but...me too. (About everything.) Everyone seems to like Winter Wrap Up, but I never get tired of Rarity's songs. If I ever wound up on the show somehow and I got my own song, I would want it to be like hers. I don't know how to suitably express how I feel about them, but now they have the additional benefit of reminding me of you.* (I hope that didn't sound creepy.)
(Semi-nice? You have never made a pony-painting that is not far greater than "nice".)
Your suggestion actually gives me another idea... If I did that, then I would only be able to use pencil and paper since I could never routinely hide colored pencils and art supplies, and I could only use it to make sketches. I have nothing against sketches (in fact, I tend to value the shape and form more than color), but it's much harder to make it perfect when you don't have a ctrl+Z "undo" button. I make great use of Undo, and erasers don't really work the same. My current drawing ability isn't much to brag about (though I'm not actually sure how good it is yet), but it still got much better when I got my tablet. I imagine that my experience with the tablet could help me use pencils and paper, but it brings to mind memories of the one or two times that I tried... I could do that if I had a good reason to draw something and I couldn't wait for the opportunity to do it digitally, and then I could take a picture of it. Otherwise, I would have to figure out how to use the scanner on my own and scan it while they out buying groceries.
*I was trying to go another full comment without complimenting you in some way, but I think I failed quite early this time.
@WhiteDiamonds
I'll get the chance to use my tablet again eventually. I just wanted to give an explanation for why I haven't made anything yet despite wanting to. Just today, my father was watching TV and for some reason, my sister didn't use his computer (I only hope this means she's losing interest in the game). I had about an hour or less, and I spent every moment of it working on my next project. Unfortunately, I didn't actually get much (anything) done on it because, as I am now reminded, I spend most of my time fussing with the outline. That's one reason why I'm anticipating lineless art; I'm never satisfied with anything unless it's perfect. If any part looks weird (which is especially obvious with lines), it must be removed and redone. I just watched the BroNYCon Artist panel (which you should have had a seat in), and JohnJoseco suggested that you "practice, practice, practice" and to feel okay with what you made and just go on and make another thing. (Uh, no.) I don't just make bad drawings until I start making good drawings. I make parts of drawings badly, undo it and try again until I do it right. By the time everything is done, it is done well. If there is anything that I have wrong with a project, there is nothing stopping me from fixing it. That's what the tablet and SAI let me do (aside from the custom colors and brush types). They let me be a perfectionist, and never leave anything until I see it as flawless. (Of course I might not make very good textures, for instance, but if something looks disproportunate or just wrong, there is nothing stopping me from doing it over.) This is also why I like Pen/Line tools. It's much easier to adjust them than it is to redo a drawn line. That's why I tend to do my most basic shaping work with lines, and once I have a plan mapped out for how everything is going to work, I use it as a basis to draw over. The laptop cannot run the tablet for any longer than a half an hour to a couple hours before inexplicably cutting out, but it can still run SAI. So I think I might use it to start out each picture so that when I can use the tablet, I won't have to worry about working those things out and I can just go ahead and make a drawn version. It would mean that I don't have to spend as much time working with the tablet, so using it to draw becomes more feasible. I could show off the linework early, but I think that it would take too much away from the final picture. Maybe they can be repurposed as coloring pages, or something.
I don't mean to give you the impression that I can't just use a pen to draw without a line to trace over (it isn't exactly tracing anyway, it's just a more digital type of sketch), but it's much harder to do it perfectly with the pen because you can't edit a pen stroke. I do go without lines once I have a basic idea for how it should look, but at very beginning stage, I just won't let myself start with the sketch without erasing it. If the mouse lines are already perfect, I won't have to worry about my pen lines looking any different. It's just sort of an easier way to get a start on what I'm making.
I'm not sure I'll find enough to say in response to it, but I enjoyed hearing your story of the advanced screening you attended (I'm sure the audience was thrilled to meet you), as of course you all know that I watch a fair bit of interviews with actors. I find their work to be so interesting. Their job is to become someone else, usually a fictional character, and tell a story by doing what the character would do. It's a dream job, really.
@Everyone
I have never once, for a moment considered that Spike and Rarity's relationship could ever become more than friends. I didn't know that anyone seriously thought that they had a romantic relationship, and I'm getting feelings of disbelief that anyone here is even entertaining the thought. Everything about their interaction in this episode, and any past episode (grabbing his cheeks, calling him "Spikey-Wikey") was clearly patronizing, which is exactly what triggered Spike's frustration that led him to join the dragon migration in the first place. ("Dragon's aren't supposed to be cute!") I don't really even see them as friends, exactly. They have more an aunt/nephew or friend-of-a-friend relationship. I admit that I mentally cringed when I read that Jayson Thiessen said in a convention interview that there would be a Spike/Rarity episode in the second season (which, of course, was Secret To My Excess, and wasn't that bad). My favorite moments for Spike were the beginnings of each of his episodes (Owl's Well That Ends Well, and you know the other two). I can relate to being "the young guy", which I have gotten very used to being, as well the jealousy of being replaced and outdone. (Oh, and some moments.) It's just that, in comparison to the mane 6 (he was much better when he spoke to Snips and Snails, which is much like how I tend to talk to people my age), he symbolizes the kind of childishness that I try so hard to avoid. (Yes, I know, it's immature to try to act like an adult. But there are bad traits that come with acting unlike one.) He reminds me of my mistakes in life. I think Rarispike is ridiculous when it isn't being used for comedy (it was meant to be a joke, after all). It isn't a serious thing. (@WhiteDiamonds) Their age difference is considerably greater than ours. We're at least among general sibling age. Even if Rarity is in her 20s, Spike could be 8. (That's half my age.) I think it's possible that RariSpike fans would actually be younger females, since they are old enough to see Spike as "cute", yet not old enough to understand why Rarity would not just jump into such a relationship. They would just say, "Awwww, cute boy likes pretty girl! She should TOTALLY fall for him! Kissy kissy!" *hits dolls together*
Also, is it just me, or do a lot of people on this blog have their own Rarity pairings? WhiteDiamonds likes Rarijack, zhoomcar likes Rarisparkle (though I prefer the term "Rarilight"), BND likes Rarishy (and everythingshy for that matter), and Ponydora likes Rariblue. Maybe I should start my own RariTom movement.
Now, if you don't mind, I'm late for sleeping.
@Harwick
If anything, I was more hoping to see if anypony else had a chance of ever knocking dear Rarity off the throne of my best pony list, which hasn't exactly happened yet. (though I have to say, Twilight in Lesson Zero and Sweet and Elite came really, really close at that point.) Other than that, I must say that Applejack's letter to the Princess at the end of SSCS6000 kinda instantly secured her position as my third best pony, and weirdly enough, Rainbow Dash is now fifth for me, after being consistently being last (least favourite) purely because of her newfound egghead status. Which leaves poor Fluttershy, who's only had one episode in last place.
So tl;dr, it's purely for favouritism reasons.
@Anon
By golly, you've really rained down the comments on this one! Rarisparkle? Rarilight? My preferred would have to be Twairity for me. Just sounds cooler, but looks odd.
#savecrackle
@PonydoraPrancypants
Well, I meant what I said, in that for me at least, I really think it's less of an issue of being biased in favor of my own ship as it is that I find the thought of RarityXSpike... highly unnatural and a bit creepy. It's cute when it's just an innocent, one-sided crush, granted (and I at least interpret it only that way), but when people start to take it seriously and go so far as to say it's canon now I can only cringe at what is so obviously a glaring age/maturity difference. On top of the species difference and other factors, but those are not things that bother me half as much.
But ah, yes, it's nice to know that I am also not alone. Though I know what you mean about fearing to say something against the idea when posting on Equestria Daily... ^_^;
@CaineScroll
The teenage dragons were also the weakest part of the episode for me, and the reason that I didn't like it so much despite the many highlights. Though I think for me, it wasn't the fact that they were such stereotypical brutish teenagers as it was that they... just felt so different from most of the other characters we've seen in the series. They felt out of place I suppose is another way of saying it. After I watched the episode, I learned that it was written by Merriweather Williams who also wrote all the other episodes of season two that I have not cared for all that much (with the only exception of Hearth's Warming Eve, which I liked quite a lot). At risk of sounding overly negative/critical, it just seems that the characters all lose a great deal of the subtleties that make them charming in her episodes, at the cost of gags, and I can always guess when she's written a storyline just by the "feel" of it, if that makes sense (and thus far anyway, my guesses have always been correct).
Anyhow though, I do apologize if that comes across as too overly negative as I said, and the good thing is that even what I consider to be the weakest of FiM episodes are still arguably more enjoyable than a lot of other programming on TV.
@Harwick
Oh, darling, you know I didn't mean it like that! You make me feel terrible. =( Honestly I wasn't trying to say anything negative against artists who do not obsessively interact with their followers as I do, just that I felt not all of them enjoyed or desired the same kind of relationship with people that I apparently do. Or, of course in many cases, do not have the time to indulge in such a thing even if they did enjoy it. You actually did a very kind thing by putting your work up for your fans in response to popular demand, and especially as it was largely against your better judgment, and honestly your reasons are exactly why I continue to think better of making my own deviantART account. I KNOW that I would never be able to keep up with the comments, group requests, llama-giving and all of that and so I just remain blissfully ignorant of the larger world here on my tiny blog, talking to all of you because my free time allows me to continue doing so (as well as squeeze in the occasional post on EqD when I'm really ahead in my work). I guess this is just the way things are going to have to stay, unless I do create a dA account and just disable comments on my artworks, which I have considered as an alternative (that way I don't have to feel guilty about not responding, hahaaa~).
Anyway though, I do feel quite bad now. While it's nice to hear that your weekend ended up being somewhat easier than you'd originally imagined, you really must let me send you something delightfully edible sometime, you must! I guarantee you would not be sorry if you did~ ^_~
@Anon
My goodness dearie, you really do manage to amaze me sometimes with how much thought and effort (and not to mention time) that you obviously put into these posts of yours. And that little insightful bit on Spitfire most especially. You really could write a fanfiction on the idea quite easily if you wanted to, I think... most impressive.
Lyra, "Lyreland", hah... I only wish I had thought of that myself (I have wanted to do some good old-fashioned Lyra and Bon Bon art for the longest time now, as I like both ponies quite a lot and especially the former. She is definitely my favorite background pony). I know I had a good St. Patrick's Day myself, even if my favorite local Irish pub was too crowded to get into (there was already an hour wait at 10am), but at least I was able to spend it cozy in a bar with friends, which is what everyone should have the pleasure of partaking in I think!
I know I have already spoken about the matter before, at length, but yes I really did see so much of myself in Rarity in that episode, including her lyrics in Art of the Dress. And I fell in love with her character as a result. I don't know if hers are problems that all artists can relate to, or if they are more mine specifically given my personality but either way I felt I could relate more to her than many other non-cartoon characters I've come across before in programs, movies or whatnot, and it was a very nice thing. On that note no I would not consider what you said to be creepy; in fact in this instance I think it's rather kind of you to say.
Well, I know that drawing and sketching the "old-fashioned way" are not as easy given the lack of layers and an 'undo' option, but again I only thought it might be a valuable alternative for you considering you wouldn't constantly have to worry about your privacy and sharing the computer with your family. You could practice whenever you want, and I'm sure your digital art sessions would only benefit as a result. And I know that you and I have been through this many times before but again, it's my own personal opinion that you place far too much value on getting your artworks "perfect" before deeming them worthy of being shared with your audience; while I can relate to your perfectionism quite well (and I have also touched on that matter sufficiently before), I know if I can get over it and post up all of the ridiculously unpolished pony-fanarts I have done, you should likewise be able to share your "imperfect" study efforts.
Lastly, while I obviously already touched on the Spike/Rarity topic in my comments to dear Ponydora above, a few of your thoughts still deserve a response from me. First and foremost that I actually agree with you about the whole aunt/nephew-type of dynamic, or baby brother at the very least, and secondly that in my experience at least RariSpike fans are hardly ever young girls. In fact, though I sort of hate to say it (and at fear of incurring the wrath of random pony fans who may be reading this and take it the wrong way) I actually think Ponydora was onto something when he said fans of the pairing might often feel the way they do out of sympathy/empathy for Spike's particular situation...
@zhoomcar
Heheh, I suppose I am the opposite of you then, dearie; I go into new episodes looking for more moments that further cement Rarity into first place atop my personal "Best Pony" list. And thus far at least, I can't say I'm ever really disappointed. ^_~
@Anon
Right, time to deliver a long comment...it's been a long time since I did one of those, so forgive me if I don't meet your usual standards (not meant in the patronizing sense, mind you). =P
First things first: green is DEFINITELY not my color. Reds, blacks and whites are okay, but never green. That said, I'm afraid I don't celebrate St. Patrick's Day myself, despite the numerous (phoney) Irish bars spread across the country. I'd like to hear a first-hand account if anyone does, though.
"Oh, brag, brag."
Um...not that I can see that it's much of a big deal, but if it helps those pictures I've seen of Katie were taken at least one year old. I suppose she's gone through some noticeable changes since then.
Funnily enough, the teenage dragons in the episode (which were supposed to be the main focus of the story in the first place) were the least appealing factor of the episode compared to all the other sub-elements in it...of course the Rarity/Spike relationship is something worth debating over, though personally I prefer to think (despite my initial reluctance to comment about this, yet here I am^^) of them as friends, though Rarity tends to baby him a little. Also, bear in mind that the presence of Spike's crush on Rarity differs between the writers of the episodes, so until they come to a rock-hard decision, I think everyone's free to form their own fantasies. Which they have.
"Now we need to cut his name out of the episode as well." Isn't Crackle female? =P
Now that you put it that way, I can see three different types (species) of contributors. First we have Di, who takes the time to reply to all of the comments she receives. Then there's Harwick, who gets so many comments he simply can't reply to each one individually without risking cerebral decomposition. And then there's me. Make of that what you will.
And while we're at that, I finally turn out to be the complete opposite of you when it comes to the drawing process. Having used pencil and paper for over a decade, I actually find it harder to start a project from scratch on a tablet. To date, most (if not all) of my works involve pencil and paper at some point, usually during the concept stage. While you had hopes of improving your aptitude at pencil/paper work, I was depending on my ability at pencil/paper to give me a head start on the tablet. My first experiences with the Ctrl+Z button were not pleasant---MS Paint, being the crude program that it is (though I've recently used it for my Running Pony project), has an Undo limit of...what, 6 strokes? Unacceptable. Eventually I came to revelation that it would never be a professional tool in digital art, then Photoshop came along, and then SAI, and then blah blah blah. You know what happened next. Come to think of, maybe this is the reason behind my demi-niceness.
And finally...
"I can relate to being 'the young guy', which I have gotten very used to being, as well the jealousy of being replaced and outdone."
Oh, you have NO idea.
@CaineScroll
@Anon
I certainly hope I haven't communicated any sort of lack of empathy for "young guys." There was a time when I was one myself. I think everyone, regardless of what social sphere they belong to, has to deal with the pain of rejection, jealousy, and humiliation sometimes. I have had my advances spurned and I have spurned advances, and I have been replaced in a relationship and I have done the replacing of someone else - these things happen, and they are often painful (although those days are long over, mercifully). I was only expressing how I am put off by people transposing their own feelings onto other things (like ponies) due to their dissatisfaction or inability to deal with reality (transference). The result of this are the most disappointing parts of fandom (terrible self-insert fiction, pornography, and fixations like Spike x Rarity).
@WhiteDiamonds
@zhoomcar
Since there is no chance any other character will dethrone Rarity as "best pony," I don't worry about that. I do, however, relish all of the little things that make her so fabulous. This is not to say that I don't love all of the characters, because I do.
@Kateasaurus
The digital age has made life so much easier for creepy people. I hate to be a misandrist, but so many normal-seeming men turn into pigs given half a chance and a bit of anonymity. Women and children (and men too) should be suspicious and distrustful, keep your social networks as protected as possible, and avoid disseminating photographs. Too bad the internet needs to have bars on its windows.
@Harwick
I'm certain that Di wasn't insinuating anything about you. We all know how busy you are and we all still love you. This is your birthday thread, after all. Besides, the exceptional quality of your thoughts and observations is far more important than the quantity of posts.
By the way, Pisces, huh? Wouldn't have guessed.
@WhiteDiamonds
Lucky, lucky WhiteDiamonds, enjoying a day out with friends. I am so envious. I mowed the lawn, did some shopping, and then came home to eat my corned beef and cabbage. I did have a couple of glasses of Jameson while working on the old fanfic (festive or sad, you be the judge). I will say that as adorable as my kid looked in green, he does put a damper on the holidays!
@Anon
When asked for advice from beginning artists (or their parents) my one standard reply for the longest time was this: Go to Office Max, or Staples, or whatever your local office supply store may be, and buy yourself some bulk paper. You can buy a whole case of printer/copier paper, or a few hundred sheet bundle of 11x17, or get cover stock if you're feeling really fancy... whatever. The point is, get cheap, bulk, loose paper so you can get used to the idea that it's not precious, with each drawing demanding perfection if it's to dare grace the blank canvas. Because the truth is this: You're going to draw a metric ton worth of crappy drawings. It will happen. There's absolutely no reason they need to be bound in some expensive spiral notebook to taunt you for all time, and the mere threat of them can make an artist hesitate to deface that pristine leather sketchpad that some supportive relative got them as a gift. Draw on loose paper. Toss the drawings you don't like. Feel free to keep the drawings you do like, but realize that a year from now you'll probably hate them and want to toss them anyway.
I'll be the first to admit... it's horrible environmentalism. These days, perhaps people need to find a good recycling center first before following this advice. Still, the point is you need to be a bit fearless, and it's almost always more productive to churn out multiple drawings trying to get one good one than to agonize over making that first attempt work out.
Of course, with tablets and the like, resources are no longer an issue... you can start over infinitely. (Still, call me old fashioned, but at least a pile of failures or even crumpled up balls of paper surrounding a waste basket just feels less like a completely wasted day than one spent drawing and deleting images with nothing to show for it at the end.) Either way the core of the advice remains true, I think... Draw as often and as fearlessly as you can, regardless of whether any individual effort is going to be a "keeper" or not.
That's just my perspective on things. Your approach is obviously very different, but perhaps there's something of value in there for you anyway.
@zhoomcar
Ah, the overall ranking thing... I'm pretty close to you, with Twilight as my favorite and Rarity in second place as the most effortlessly entertaining member of the cast. After that I really do like and respect AJ, which separates her from the pack. I'm very fond of the remaining three as well, but I'm usually a bit less excited to hear they're the focus of an upcoming episode as I don't think they carry the plot as well as the others.
@WhiteDiamonds
Oh, please don't feel terrible. For one, as I stated above, I know it wasn't directed at me in any way, certainly not negatively. It just happened to brush across a guilty spot in me. It's no more your fault that had you inadvertently made me think about how I haven't visited my one grandmother in far too long.
Also, stating that I made you "feel terrible" just doesn't seem entirely healthy for me when torches and pitchforks are sold without any kind of waiting period or ID required. Next, people will think I kick kittens, or made Fluttershy cry or something, and then the mob starts rolling. Hell, even I want to get that heartless bastard who made you feel bad.
Oh, and seriously... I have a huge amount of llamas (I think... I guess upon examination any amount of llamas seems like a lot to me) and I have no idea what I'm supposed to be doing with them. The llama exchange completely mystifies me. Would anyone like some llamas? They have very low mileage on them.
@CaineScroll
You know, if Crackle was female then she's the only female dragon we know about. I mean... there must be some, right? Eggs have to come from somewhere. Or maybe female dragons just have very manly voices.
As for artistic process, right up until I started working on my Cintiq monitor I was still drawing with a pencil on paper and scanning it in as the first step of any work. I've never felt all that comfortable sketching with a tablet, for some reason.
@PonydoraPrancypants
Rarity really seems to trigger the most projection from certain fans. Every time someone reacts strongly to some minor infraction of hers, I wonder what ex-girlfriend (or would-be girlfriend) that they're thinking of as they overreact.
As I said before, I know WD wasn't directing anything at me, and I never took the slightest offense to her statement... it merely triggered some self-inflicted guilt. She couldn't be more lovely or charming if she tried, most likely because she already puts a truly generous amount of effort into being lovely and charming to everyone.
By the way, I managed to catch up to the latest chapter of "Flight of the Alicorn" late last night, and so am quite happy to hear that your social life suffered while you penned more of it. Based on it, I can say that you're easily one of the most talented writers in this fandom. It's a truly great, gripping read... which is illustrated by the fact that I read about 80,000 words of it over the weekend without actually having the free time to do so.
Feel free to live like a shut-in as long as you keep writing.
@Harwick
Official response: I'm so pleased that you read my story and enjoyed it.
What I'm really thinking: Omigosh omigosh omigosh omigosh! Harwick READ my story! HARWICK! Omigosh omigosh omigosh omigosh! And HE LIKED IT! Omigosh omigosh omigosh omigosh! /)^3^(\
(first ever use of dashface emoticon)
I miss so many comments when I'm being held against my will at work.
@Everyone With how long I've been playing MMOs I've really seen and heard everything. I could open my own exhibit of unwanted pictures of the male anatomy. So I really shouldn't be surprised by anything anymore, but on occasion it's just so unbelievably frustrating. Yes, 14 year old on WoW, you asking me to marry you on a video game has moved me so deeply that I'm going to say yes! I'm 10 years older than you... really? I asked you if you wanted my extra leather scraps for crafting. Sheesh. /rant
@Anon I didn't mean to direct it at anyone, actually. Just more of a general statement, since it happens all the time. Not just here but elsewhere as well. It can be a bit frustrating when you spend so much time on a response and get nothing back at all.
Your synopsis is more or less how I view Spitfire. It would make a great story as well! I might read more fanfiction if it was centered around the Wonderbolts, in a non-shipping way.
@PonydoraPrancypants
Seriously, it's a great read so far and I'm chomping at the bit for the next part now. The writing style and the pacing are really engaging making it a real page-turner (or in my case, Ipad scroller) and there's enough depth and character work in there to really get absorbed into the events. I also love the travelogue nature of the adventure as we get to see far flung parts of the world. (Having Rarity as a runner in Gallopoli was my favorite bit. I don't know if it was an intentional reference to the film, but I enjoyed it either way.)
I suppose I will have to find the time to write some proper comments under EQD's entry for it (at least until I get around to making a FimFiction account.) But really, any admiration is entirely mutual... you're damn talented.
I feel as though I've been gone from this blog for forever... it's kind of awful really.
@CaineScroll
Silly! Just because green isn't your color dearest (it is not mine either), doesn't mean that you can't still celebrate St. Patrick's Day in proper form! There are always accessories after all. It's a holiday that has evolved (or devolved, depending on one's point of view I suppose) in most societies into nothing more than an excuse to have a good time anyway, and in my opinion it's always nice to justify doing just that.
@PonydoraPrancypants
Well, as usual you have said most everything that I feel and far more eloquently than I could hope to imagine, I'm sure, so I'll just say that I agree with the vast majority of your post (one notable exception however is the matter of Harwick's astrological sign; I could have pegged him as a Pisces a kilometer off!).
Also, if it makes you feel any better my friend I didn't actually spend the whole day out with my companions; I had plenty of work and responsibility to keep me busy Saturday as well. We didn't end up going out until the evening, though we did perhaps make up for that by consenting to stay out a very good portion of the night, and despite the fact that I had to open the studio the next morning. I can happily say it was worth it, however!
Oh, and I've been singing my praise of both you and your writing for a while now, though I can understand if my words do not perhaps hold as much weight as Harwick's do... he does possess that certain indiscernible quality that seems to accurately assess the merits of a work doesn't he? It's the same reason that I so value his feedback on my artworks; I know that if HE genuinely likes them, I must be doing something right after all!
@Harwick
Dearest Harwick. As long as you don't actually feel all that bad about what I said (or any guilt it may have inadvertently caused) I shall be content, though like I said you really should think about the idea of allowing me to send you baked goods sometime. Even if you're not too keen on the almond-orange scones, I can truthfully say (and please forgive my utter lack of humility in this instance) that I make a FABULOUS Moroccan orange cake. Though I unfortunately don't know how well the latter would travel... shame.
To my knowledge, llamas are not actually things that are exchanged like trading cards, just that people give them out to those whom they deem worthy and in what seems to be more cases than not, like it if the recipient returns the favor. I think, to many people they're seen as something of a status symbol (I know, go figure right?) and so some deviantART users make a habit of trolling through random galleries and gifting them in hopes that they'll receive an appropriate number back. And of course me being me, I always did my best to do just this because I realized it was inordinately important to so many people.
Anyway though. I really have to thank you for offering your own artistic advice to Anon-dear (which I agree with wholeheartedly, and had to laugh at so many parts because I could relate one-thousand percent to what you were talking about), because while he genuinely seems to value my opinion I realize he's quite set on his methods, and it can't hurt to hear from such a decidedly accomplished artist as yourself. Even to this day, I still find myself "practicing" and honing my technique as I sketch on most any kind of suitable surface that I come across, from printing paper and the backs of discarded flyers and paperwork to old newspapers (right over the top of the text and photos with ink-pens; I don't care), paper bags, napkins, or whatever happens to be in front of me. Virtually no materials that are even remotely considered to be usable are safe, quite honestly. But it's my opinion that an aspiring artist really needs to live and breathe this stuff if they truly hope to see significant improvement or want to pursue art seriously, and though frustrating for how terribly cliché it has become that oft-spoken adage of "practice, practice, practice" really does hold a great deal of value.
@Kateasaurus
I can certainly relate to many of the topics that you brought up in your comment my dear, even though I know that the majority of it wasn't directed at me. I also hate how little time I often feel that I have to devote to my fanart, all of you, and ponies in general thanks to the often demanding realities of my life, and yes on that note it is sometimes frustrating to spend a substantial portion of this limited time writing up replies and such that never get answered (though of course, I know not all of them really warrant responses and as Anon truthfully said before a thread has to end somewhere, otherwise the conversation would just keep on going for forever which I definitely do not have time for!). Also, most unfortunately I can truly empathize with your experiences with certain naive young men; I'm pretty friendly and like to think of myself as a giving person much of the time, and throughout my life I've seen that many... members of the opposite gender seem to misinterpret this as a sign of interest, when I was merely trying to be thoughtful or polite. It's made for some pretty awkward situations, and perhaps that's just one more reason that I feel for Rarity and tend to view the shipping fanworks involving her and Spike with certain misgivings...
@WhiteDiamonds
You mean... I've been unfairly hording highly desirable llamas this whole time?
Cripes. I'm the worst Deviant Art guy ever.
On artistic process once again: I love drawing on regular printer/copy paper. Tooth-wise, it's garbage, but still... it's nice and clean and conveniently sized and everywhere. I don't think I'm ever more than 50 feet away from sheets of the stuff, no matter where I go. I did most of the design work for one video game over a two year span on regular printer paper and a free plastic clipboard I was given by someone who received it as swag at a medical convention. (I believe it was advertising some kind of Estrogen supplement. I can't vouch for the pharmaceuticals, but it was a damn nice-sized clipboard.) I'd often refine sketches by retracing the parts I liked on makeshift light boxes put together with regular lamps under any kind of hard, transparent surface, or even just taping the papers up to the window. (My office at work actually had a nice, table-sized lightbox for working on when necessary, as well as pretty much any other tool I could need, so I wasn't always working like some kind of hobo and/or art student the entire time. Still, I loved that clipboard.)
I guess the lesson truly is that when you really get the urge to create some art, you learn to make do with whatever you can find lying around, and hope that people were done using it before you draw all over it.
@Harwick
Hah! Taping papers up onto the window for tracing, I used to do the exact same thing when I was younger! I also used a makeshift light box until I finally broke down and bought an inexpensive model that nevertheless serves its purpose quite well. Also, when I was younger and lacked a clipboard, I used to use random hardcover books as drawing boards for when I wasn't working at my desk or the kitchen table, and yes I can remember many instances of my mother getting upset at me because I'd drawn all over the classifieds, recipes or other various sections of the newspaper before she'd had a chance to read them.
That's so funny... it really is amusing to think about how many things we have in common when it comes to artsy matters but I suppose it's to be expected, and only serves to remind me that I really have never had many artist friends. Or maybe it's actually just you and I who share these similar experiences, who knows! But yes, highly entertaining and I sincerely thank you for sharing. ^.^
On the matter of llamas, I really wouldn't worry about it... like I said many of the people who give them out are only doing so because they're hoping you'll go to their page to give them one in return and up all their counts by doing so! "The worst Deviant Art guy ever"... you really do make me laugh, dear!
@Harwick
Copy paper? I lived off those for nearly the entirety of my artistic process! My mother used to criticize me over my spamming of copy paper, which was pretty much justified since I liked to draw one object per piece (I could draw a face on a piece of paper, dismiss it as ugly, and retry it on a fresh sheet). Obviously I'm not the most environmental person here. My folders are stuffed with A4 papers 24/7, so if I ever got the urge to brainstorm I could simply whip out a sheet of paper, Zorro-style, and start scribbling away. Of course, most of those drafts end up as trashed ideas, so it could take a lot of paper until I eventually settle on a decision. And then there were the countless exercise books I used to draw comics on...
As for the lightbox method, I only started using it recently when I needed to trace replicas of a single model so I could experiment various ideas on them. However, the setup was pretty crude: a a glass table with a weak lamp underneath it. I wouldn't know where to get a lightbox if I needed it.
And yes, llamas are awesome~! Now that I look back on it, I've received a whopping total of...9 llamas! Any objection to dressing them up in South American dresses? =D
@CaineScroll
In that case, since I tend to think that we never really took any family photos over the years, I broke into the albums just to see what was there. The earliest folder was 1998. I was 2 years old for most of that year. There were surprisingly many more pictures than I thought, and a couple good ones. I look nothing like I did back then, and I thought some of them were funny, so...why not. The best one is probably this. There are some things I remember from that age, and believe it or not, the moment that picture was taken is one of them. I just pulled a generally flower-like thing off whatever was nearby and handed it to my mother, who happened to have the camera out at time (there are two more pictures of that general scene). She immediately put on a big smile and told me to stay still. I kept my arm in its place, but I kept looking at her. She then moved a bit to the side (which is why the arm is off-center of the camera) and took the picture. I don't know if I knew what a camera was or what it did at the time, but surely I was left confused about why she was making such a big deal of it.
Most of the pictures are like that, so you can imagine my surprise when I saw...this. Because giant bubble makers are so fly. They bring all the girls to my yard. /memes (Just look at that pose. Are those shutter shades? Yes, I believe they are.) In this one, I look a kingpin. And finally, one more.
I want to reiterate that I look nothing like that now (These days, I look significantly more like this). And I'm glad; I'm not sure I could live with curly hair or a round face at this age. (Instead, I'm a tall, skinny and bony teenager.) But even if they aren't any sort of accurate representation of me now (I've changed a lot, is what I'm saying), I still thought they were kind of funny.
I was actually going to ask you about those running pony avatars, but you recently added the template to your favorites. I worked with pixels for coloring sprites in MS Paint (which I also made comics with), so I had interest in making my own, until I realised that I don't have an OC. Oh well, I'm sure there are plenty of mane 6 versions out there to use.
@WhiteDiamonds
I don't know if you have seen it before, but you inspired an artist who has a bit of fame and a following to make this. They have a whole series, one for each gala dress, in that style. I have known of it for a while now, but as of yet I had forgotten to mention it. This might be a good time to ask: One's taste in art can say a lot about them. Does anyone here have other artists who they are fans of? (Besides the ones here at this blog, obviously.)
@WhiteDiamonds
I happened to come across a Rarity Tumblr blog, which had a section for artwork of her with each other mane 6 character. A lot of them were a bit graphic with the shipping (and many of the others were your own work), so I took all the Applejack/Rarity ones that met my standards. After looking it up, I could not find any other dedicated Rarijack art gallery, so if you haven't seen every such picture yet, you probably will now.
One, two, three, four, five, six, seven, eight, nine, ten, eleven, twelve, thirteen (part 2), fourteen, fifteen, sixteen.
@WhiteDiamonds
And now, the title of best-drawn non-WhiteDiamonds Rarijack fanart ever goes to...this! (Finally, someone that can draw as well as I can.)
Or maybe it's this one. It's easy to get them confused.
This is not including plenty of screenshots, .gifs and vectors of the show (mostly Look Before You Sleep), some of which I find amusing. (Each word is a separate link.) There is also a Rarijack ask blog, and whatever these things are.
As for best ponies, as I may have said before, I don't really have favorites except that I tend to like characters that I can relate to. Twilight makes a good main protagonist, and she seems to share many of my priorities and ways of thinking. But I also feel like Rarity symbolizes a more personal side of myself; certain traits which I tend not to express. As I said earlier, I'm a Twilight when you first meet me, and (at least I like to think so) a Rarity when you really get to know me, but I'm always a bit of a Twilight. But like anyone, I can relate to any character in some way. (Except for Pinkie Pie.) I know that I should like a character for adding to the show, not for being similar to me, but these characters put me in the show. They give me a voice, and show me what would happen to me in such a situation. Overall, though, I'm not drawing any conclusions. I like each of them for different reasons, and it doesn't really make sense to value one over the other simply for having different positive characteristics.
@WhiteDiamonds
@Harwick
Some interesting things actually happened today relating to my art status. I had just stopped working for the day, and everyone else in the house decided to stop and watch a television show (Dragon's Den) that they stream from YouTube onto the big TV. I took the opportunity to touch my tablet again. My next project should include a particular background pony, so I started work on a face. Instead of drawing it, though, I used some sort of lineless style. I don't know if it deserves to be called "painting", but whatever it was, it seemed oddly easier than drawing. No more thin lines to make perfect. If I want to fix an edge, I can just add more color over it. So, in under 22 minutes (that's about how long it usually takes me to bring it the program and put down two or three lines), I made a pair of eyes. Sadly, it looks like a vector (if vectors had messy, imperfect circles) despite being drawn/painted by hand. The other body parts should be more shaded and painting-like, though. There was a nose and mouth, but I deemed them unworthy and erased that part. (Yes, I know, but they really were ugly...) Before I post it up here, though, I want to review: This is the first time I have done anything remotely lineless, and the first time I have touched my tablet in months. There were no practice drawings, study efforts or rough doodles. You have seen everything that I have ever made. I literally had no experience with any of this, and I didn't try more than once. I did this on my first try, no erasing. I just picked up the pen and did it. I'm still an absolute beginner, I will continue to be so until I say otherwise. (Seriously though, I really have no idea what I'm doing.) I have no experience with any of this, but I tried to make show-like eyes, freehand. In under 22 minutes. It's rough, and it isn't much, but you can kind of see where it's going with the style anyway. With all of that in mind, here's how it turned out. I only used the Brush tool. I'm not sure if I will be able to finish the project (it's ambitious as always), but if I do, you will all get to see it.
@(Er, WhiteDiamonds? Harwick? I don't know.)
If I explained this in too great detail then it would turn into a rant, and I have done that too much here already (it isn't your problem, and I shouldn't make it yours). But when I said I have no time for drawing, I meant it literally. (Oh, here we go.) People with a "9 to 5" job work for 8 hours a day. I work for about 10 to 12. It starts the moment I get up. Last night, I stayed up until 1:30 working. There are never any breaks (except for when I get to stop for the day, if at all). That is not including school work, which I have to do at nighttime, if I bother to at all. But most adults that have jobs get paid for them. I don't really even get gratitude anymore. A couple times, I nearly went the whole day without eating. My hands start to shake when I skip meals, to the point that I might press the wrong button or misspell something. So there I was, hands shaking, working since I woke up, while my father watches a YouTube video titled "MARCEL THE SHELL WITH SHOES ON" (and my sister does pretty much the same). I may have said it before, but the only reason why I can make these posts is because I stay up far later than I'm supposed to, which cuts into my time to sleep. My parents complain about how late I get up, and wonder why I still look tired. I heard my mother say, "it's too bad (I) can't do any of the website stuff", but my "heart's not into it". Really? You think so? My "heart" is not "into" working all day and all night on a job that never ends, all for nothing? I'm starting to wonder if these home inspectors are even worth it. At least I'm glad that I never learned PHP. We recently made an agreement that I would get a day break after I finish a page, but apparently that doesn't apply anymore. The last time my father gave me a break was when my mother told him to. Then add in the desire to create burning in the back of my mind, and you get ranting. This is mindless grunt work. There are such better ways I could spend my time. I could be making so much in that time. I have the ability, and everything that I need is at my fingertips. I just can't use them. That's the part that is maddening. I can only imagine what I would have made in this time if I had a life like my sister's instead of sitting at a desk all day.
But I'm not fishing for sympathy, since I know you all have it much worse than I do. (You don't need to respond to all that. I don't want to make it your problem.) I want to mention that this blog is often the only thing that I have to look forward to in the day, and thinking of the people here serves as some comfort. I'm just trying to explain myself. If I had any time, I would have a blog already. It will end soon enough (I only have three more pages to do for this largest job, at least until I'm given something else to do), and when it does, I'll see about finishing that project. I don't really feel like going back and fixing the hair I made, I just want to do something new. I imagine I'll fix it once I get better at drawing. Or I'll just replace it with something lineless instead. In any case, I knew that I needed a permenant solution, so I bit the bullet and showed my sister those eyes while taking a moment to show off things like fan games, and brag about some of the people I know. I don't plan to call her over whenever I finish a drawing or art piece; I'm just trying to minimize embarassment. Once I have one good thing done, I can use it to prove that I can draw (or whatever I'm doing) well, making any more negative judgement illogical. I hope to work a bit on it at night after my parents have gone to bed. I'll try to manage my time and not let drawing time interfere with my ability to post here.
@WhiteDiamonds
@Harwick
(It was easier to determine that time)
Finally, about paper sketching; I would probably find more use for it once my current work is done and my father is using his computer more often. I would still have a lot of non-art things to do during that time, but if I ever feel the unsatiable urge to draw, or the power goes out, or he just stays on his computer for too long...then it would interesting to try. I could use it to start projects and work from the scanned images after, or just do it for a different style. I can understand how discarded pieces of paper could feel more productive than a blank screen, and it could help to develop my drawing (Non-lineless. Lined?) ability without showing it off to everyone first. It's funny how my irrational fear of starting a drawing on a computer is so bad that using a pencil and paper could be more hands-on and feel less "important". Of course, experience in one style should help with using the other. Though I have to wonder what everyone would think if the garbage cans were suddenly full of hastily cut-up sheets of paper. I'll try everything I can, and one way or another, I'll find something that works. I have too much determination not to. If I am for whatever reason unable to use one method, I can try another. (I do contend that pen/line tools are helpful for their purposes, however.) It would be almost a disservice to start an art blog and never post some pencil sketches. But I didn't buy that tablet for nothing; I would probably want to put most of them through some process before I display them on a blog.
Oh, and I happen to know of a very active photography blog here. Just look through two or three pages. You will find something you like. (Though I have reason to believe that not all of them are real, they are still nice images.)
@Anon
B'DAAAAW just lookit little chibi-Anon; how incredibly cute are you!? Such big bright blue eyes, d'aaaaaw~! ^.^
And eep, SO much Rarijack, what are you trying to do to my already fluttery heart!? Some of those pictures are so ridiculously ADORABLE they shouldn't be allowed, really. I've seen most of them already but not all, and I really do thank you for compiling such a list for me despite the fact that such a thing probably doesn't hold all that much appeal for you... you're so sweet and thoughtful. <3 I've collected quite a few gifs myself over time (and yes, mostly from Look Before You Sleep; I think my favorites are this one because it's amusing and this one because it's just plain cute) and as far as screenshots go this has always been my favorite simply because Rarity's face is hilarious and never ceases to make me laugh. Also, a Rarity/Applejack ask blog... now why didn't *I* think of that??
Yes, in answer to your question I'm actually quite familiar with KP's work courtesy of Equestria Daily, and have seen that particular picture before as well as the deviantART commentary that went with it. I've thanked him for crediting me as a source of inspiration as it was a very kind thing of him to say, and I'm only flattered to know that my work was able to inspire him in turn. ^_^ That's always gratifying to hear!
On the matter of your own artwork, first and foremost that one little lineless doodle did turn out very well! Especially considering it was a first attempt for you doing that sort of thing. I definitely think it's a good idea for you to experiment and play around as much as you can with different styles and techniques, as I might have mentioned before, as I think that's one of the better ways to gain valuable experience and formulate your own style (and on paper or otherwise; I hope you didn't feel pressured by anything I had to say in that regard. But for what it's worth I genuinely feel you have the right attitude about trying new things and am sure that you will just continue to grow stronger by doing so). But yes, whether or not you end up doing more with that particular piece I think it was a very good effort, and serves as proof that you're improving already.
@Anon
As far as everything else goes with your work and such, and despite the fact that you tell me I don't need to comment on it or feel sympathy for you, I can't help but do both after reading all of that! You poor dear you! Contrary to what you say I really don't know that I have it worse than you (of course I can't speak for Harwick), as I know that I at least make my own hours outside of my work at the studio and beyond that, I get paid for my efforts which goes a long way towards keeping morale up. Even when I am stressed out and tired. You can't even say the same there. I know it's probably not my place to say anything on the subject but it doesn't seem quite fair that your parents are apparently taking some advantage of your willingness to work for free, at the cost of your schoolwork and possibly your health (not eating until you're feeling weak from low blood sugar? That hardly sounds ideal, though I can't imagine they'd really have a problem with your taking breaks). It's probably a ridiculous thing to ask and forgive me if I'm overstepping my boundaries, but have you tried discussing the matter with them? Of course if you prefer not to talk about it further that's fine and all you need do is say so... I'll only remark that it's a shame I can't send you cookies as well because you sound like you could really appreciate a batch!
Lastly, thank you so much for sharing that photo-blog! Some most gorgeous images indeed (also, look what I found, of my own home sweet home!)! I spent FAR too much time going through page after page on that site when I had other things to be working on, but I just couldn't stop myself because some of them are truly breathtaking... I am honestly amazed sometimes by the beauty that exists in the world.
@WhiteDiamonds
Sorry this took me so long... I wonder where everyone has gone, but I'm glad I managed to make this post first.
I don't know if I have ever had a preferred pairing between characters of any show, but you will have to take my word for it that I do understand your feelings even if I don't necessarily share them. I know I have said that compared to most, the Applejack/Rarity ship is at least one of the more interesting ones, as you are always finding ways to make use of its possibilities. How could I find anything Rarijack and not think of you? To be perfectly honest, one of my art ideas is/was a Lyra/Bon Bon (friendshipping?) silent comic. The only reason why I tell you this is because obviously I am nowhere near capable of making it at this time. I don't have the sort of stereotypical young male gag reflex to shipping; mostly, I'm just indifferent about any of it. So, I'm sure that once I'm 60 years old and have learned to draw simple ponies, I'll put the two together eventually. After all, Rarijack is a part of our culture. (Oh, and yes, Rarity's expression never gets old.)
I hope you don't feel a need to review things like that doodle (I never thought I would ever make such a thing as a small project) so highly. Usually would never mind constructive criticism, though in this case I can clearly see the flaws: The edges of the circles are bumpy and rough. The pupil on the left eye (not our left) is too big. The added eye colors do not point to the center. The top color is noticably larger than the bottom one. The green color on the left eye does not meet the bottom end of the whites. And finally, the left eye is positioned too low down and it looks like it's looking down while the right eye is looking straight, but that's because they used to be on a very different angle for the planned picture. I'm not rejecting your compliments, and 30 minutes is an extremely short amount of time for me to do anything related to drawing, but don't feel like you need to say something so positive with the worry that I will be offended. (I really haven't done any practicing at all; all I did was wait a few months and try again. I kind of doubt that that could have made me improve, so this really is just initial effort. There is nothing natural about the way that I "practice". I really don't have any experience to speak of.) Apart from that, what you said about trying different styles gave me an idea. Eyes are the only part of a pony (except for hair) that I haven't really made before, or at least one of the harder parts. After looking at the work of various MLP artists, I found that there are many different ways to make them. So, maybe I should try each of their styles, recreating the eyes by hand. That is what I am currently working on, along with everything else that I'm making whenever I have free time. I'm giving each artist their own character('s eyes): I already made one for Studio B, and the next one is JohnJoseco. After taking a close look over his gallery, I decided it would be best to try his Spitfire. (It's almost a shame, since I like his Octavia so much. Just look at her.) This is making me go back to drawing with lines, so of course it takes me about 50 tries before I settle on each line. If any of them turn out well enough, it might serve as a nice comparison between them.
I wonder which I would do best. (I'm not sure it could lead me to developing my own style though, since I'm trying to do it the same as others. I know that you say it's natural, but I'm skeptical that it will ever happen, and though it would probably be interesting on occasion, I'm not sure I want one.) But I mean everything I say, and I do hope that I will get the chance to try pencil sketching some time in the future, but right now, it's as impossible for me as drawing with the tablet. Like I said, it will probably make much more sense once I'm off work again. I really just don't have time to do anything, but I'm eager to get back to it when I can. Also, I would like to confirm that I do value Harwick's advice as highly as yours (if it isn't obvious), and I'm still looking for a twelfth-storey window to throw my tablet out at your command.
The reason why you and Harwick have it worse than I do is because my work does not have deadlines. I don't need to work quickly; I just get negative reactions if I don't. I'm pushed as far as possible in order to get the most done as possible, but nothing bad will happen as long as it doesn't take me years to do it. There is no stress involved. (Though today and yesterday, I had lunch at 4:00. In the latter case, I was surprised that I did at all. Even though I only eat things like toast.) Simply put, I have to do all the work on the handheld application because I'm the one that started it. If we hired a programmer to it instead, we would have to worry about him copying the source code and selling it, or using it to make his own. We could have him sign a non-disclosure, non-compete contract (as we did with our web programmer, but the website is almost completely separate from the application), but this is the internet, after all. I'm the only one that can, and the only one they have. I was supposed to get a share of the company instead of immediate payment. He told me that I would be "taking the risk", like an investor. In the beginning, I had 50%. But now, I doubt that there is anything reserved for me. I did get a new computer at one point, which was in return for everything that I had done, as well as what I will have to do in the future. The thing is, we always get new computers when we really need them (when our old stops working). This computer was expensive ($1,800), and the specifications are ridiculous (but I'm not going to detail them, because I hate it when people brag about their computers. Especially since I wouldn't know what what to consider "average"). But the only reason why I got such a good computer is because my father thought that I would use it for development. He saw it as a business investment. Even so, he uses it as an excuse for why I'm legally bound to do whatever he wants me to from now on. I can never even use it anymore, because I'm always too busy working. (When I have work to do, that is.) I'm not doing it for money, or because I particularly think that it will be a success (it has been tested and proven very effective, but marketing the product well is as integral to its success as its quality). I'm doing it because I feel like I have to. My mother told me that my father is just stressed about our financial situation. He's just being irrational now; maybe two days ago, he already had the program (Eclipse, the programming program) up on his computer when I got up, because he "really wants to get this done". That would be like one of your commissioners breaking into your house at night, turning your computer on, bringing up SAI, waiting for you to get out of bed and calling you over. Well, maybe they do that already. But yes, at long last, I am nearly done this next large job. Of course, now I have another that came out of nowhere (as a complication from the last one), but it should be much smaller.
@WhiteDiamonds (I forgot to add that last time.)
I'm always either "on work", which is nonstop, or "off work", which means I am doing literally nothing. Maybe when I'm done this one, I can get back to drawing/painting/whateverI'mdoing. Or at least I'll stop whining to you all like some kind of teenager or something. I'm a bit paranoid that readers will think that I'm making up stories so that they will feel sorry for me, but if I was, I don't think I would tell everyone that they don't have to comment. I'm just trying to explain that my situation is not entirely relaxed and free, so I don't have a choice about some things that would help me artistically. It isn't that I have little interest in art, or that I see it as a short-lived fad. I'm doing the most that I can. That just happens to be almost nothing. But no, you don't have any sort of boundaries that you could overstep. You are so selfless, and such a pleasure to know. I don't have anything against talking about it (I brought it up, after all), but I hope we will have better things to talk about instead.
Not only have I never had orange cake, I've never heard of it. But that's the case for 99% of foods. I'm sure that, to me, your cake is best cake (and your cookies are best cookies) simply because you made them.
Some things that I forgot to add before: I don't expect anyone to recognise the original, but I find this funny. I guess you just like Lyra for her coloring, but I like how she often portrayed as "the man" in the relationship, being unpredictable (or "eccentric", as you might put it) in an almost Pinkie-like way. It seems like Bon Bon is just there to keep her under control. Now, I wonder would happen if she ever was to meet Pinkie on-screen... I've never seen an artist try that before.
I happened to run into this video, and I thought some of you might be interested. You won't understand what it's about until halfway through, and you might not understand what he's saying (singing), but it is in English. He has five of these videos, but my favorite is this one. Now I wish I could make one, too...
Argh, I can't help but make these comments so long... I shouldn't have much more to explain after this, but then we have the episode to go over. I don't tend to have much to say about each, so I'll let someone else start it off.
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