The Gross Uncle

SF DOGS t-shirt

2012-02-11T14:12:00.000-08:00

Now at Lower Haters in SF...this three color silkscreened tee will turn some heads at the dog park!

www.lowerhater.com

Modern Eden’s 2nd Annual “Menagerie” Art Exhibit and Benefit for the San Francisco SPCA

2012-02-10T04:22:00.000-08:00

Come check out the upcoming "Menagerie" art exhibition and benefit for the San Francisco SPCA at Modern Eden this Saturday (that's tomorrow!) the 11th from 6-10pm. Marvel at the handiwork of this great roster of talented local San Francisco artists, and if you happen to buy a piece, the proceeds will go right to the SPCA! Nice pups and kitties all around San Francisco will benefit greatly from your generosity. I also happen to have a piece in the show, and I'll post a picture of it after the opening reception night. See you there!

Modern Eden
www.moderneden.com
403 Francisco st. @ Powell st.
415.956.3303

Fuzzy Lumpkin!

2012-01-26T20:03:00.000-08:00

This $20 drawing goes out to Erin in Knoxville, TN...thanks Erin!

For more info on my $20 drawings, visit this blog post: www.thegrossuncle.com/2009/08/20-drawings.html

Send all drawing requests to 20dollardrawings@gmail.com

Facebook Fan Page
Twitter

Elliot

2012-01-22T18:26:00.000-08:00

Commissioned pet portrait
acrylic on canvas
8x8 in

Mow Mow!

2011-12-19T15:46:00.001-08:00

Commissioned pet portrait
acrylic on wood panel
5x5 in

Woodland Squirrel

2011-12-03T16:55:00.000-08:00

10x10" acrylic on wood panel.

This piece will be in the "Woodland Group Show" at Modern Eden.

www.moderneden.com

Sody Pup!

2011-11-11T21:16:00.001-08:00

This sugary lump dog goes out to Chelsea in Pittsburgh, PA...thanks Chelsea!

For more info on my $20 drawings, visit this blog post: www.thegrossuncle.com/2009/08/20-drawings.html

Send all drawing requests to 20dollardrawings@gmail.com

The Campaign Trail

2011-11-09T11:41:00.001-08:00

Smoke Ghost

2011-10-31T18:10:00.001-07:00

Boo! *cough* Boo!

Happy Halloween!

2011-10-28T23:24:00.000-07:00

"Oliver"

2011-10-26T18:57:00.001-07:00

Commissioned pet portrait
8x8 in
acrylic on canvas

A rotting head and a happy heart

2011-10-25T10:40:00.000-07:00

Good Coffee

2011-10-23T14:19:00.001-07:00

It is crucial that you meet me at the Sunglass Hut!

2011-10-22T16:32:00.000-07:00

2 Blocks of Art!

2011-10-16T19:35:00.000-07:00

Recently I was asked to participate in an art walk put on by Urban Solutions SF, a non-profit organization here in San Francisco. The art walk, called "2 Blocks of Art", is just that...2 blocks (from Market to Howard) of artwork displayed inside the many businesses and restaurants in this up and coming area of the Civic Center/Tenderloin. Each location along the 2 block area featured a different artist (or group of artists) exhibiting their work and chatting it up with the general public...it was a great night filled with plenty of interesting people!

I showed my work in Pranzo Pizza, located at 32 6th Street. Pranzo had a big flatscreen tv in there (I watched several sitcoms while setting up that afternoon), and they also have BRIGHT YELLOW WALLS. This worked out for me since I did black and white works for the show...I think the combination of the black n' white against the yellow is pretty sweet looking! The guys working at Pranzo were super cool and even helped me move their big mirror off the wall so I could hang my paintings.

I want to thank all the cool folks who took the time to talk with me about my work, and also a big thanks to all who purchased a piece that night! Also thanks to Kirsten at Urban Solutions for contacting me and getting me on board for this event...I hope to be involved next year.

Here are some pics of my wall at Pranzo:

Dorm Room Grow

2011-10-03T17:38:00.000-07:00

This piece accompanied an article about growing pot in your dorm room...for the Boston Phoenix.

$20 Drawings! Say Wha? and Dolla Man!

2011-09-08T17:23:00.000-07:00

Two fresh sharpie-smellin' $20 drawings are out the door and on their way to meet their owners!

The first is for Abbey in Orlando, Florida...thanks Abbey!

And this one goes out to Matt in Denver, Colorado...thanks Matt!

Do you enjoy black and white illustrations? Of anything? Well, then shoot me an email at 20dollardrawings@gmail.com and I'll get crackin' on one just for you! I'll draw your dog, your cat, your grandma, or your grandma holding your dog and cat! What I'm trying to say here is that I'm open to any and all requests, so surprise me!

Zombie Apocalypse Mobile!

2011-08-25T10:43:00.000-07:00

Vid-ja gamez!

Zombie Apocalypse is a game by Owen Morris...he owns all the copyrights to the brand and it's look. BUT! I am happy to promote him because he is a friend of mine, and this commercial is really fun.

There is an open beta available for this game right now. Owen is taking sign ups but there won't be a playable build for a few more weeks. Here is the DIY promo commercial...Trevor Morris recorded the voice overs and did the sound. Announcer voice and several screams by me!

sign up for the open beta now at www.zombieapocalypsemobile.com

Sockhead and Texas Man ($20 drawings)

2011-08-24T11:19:00.000-07:00

These two $20 drawings are in the mail today...

This is Sockhead, for Diane in Portland, thanks Diane!

This is Texas Man, for Dave in Austin, thanks Dave!

Order up your own personalized $20 drawing today! Email me at 20dollardrawings@gmail.com and I'll make one for you!

Skin Peel!

2011-08-22T13:09:00.000-07:00

Graphite on gessoed board
14.25x12"
$600

See it at Big Umbrella Studios as part of "The Evilest Place on Earth" show.

Pet Portrait Time!

2011-06-03T12:43:00.001-07:00

I would like to offer my creative services up to anyone who has a furry friend, pet, companion, best bud, etc and would like a portrait made of them. Here's an example of some recent dog commissions:

Typically I create these portraits on wood panels that measure about 5x5 inches. This is not a fixed size requirement though...if you'd like something else, then just let me know. It won't change the price unless it's radically larger than 5x5.

I charge $80 for each portrait...and each is created with acrylic paint and ink. I typically have a one week turnaround for each piece.

Payment method can be either check or paypal...

If interested, email me and we can get the ball rolling! I can work off of just one picture, but feel free to include any that really showcase personality, fur patterns, size, etc...

Also, I don't just do dog portraits...I would be open to any animal variety under the sun...here is an example of a cat portrait I recently did for a client. I would love to expand my animal portfolio to include birds, turtles, hamsters, you name it.

Looking forward to hearing from you! Have a great weekend.

If I ever was a cat, could I ever do that?

2011-06-01T13:59:00.000-07:00

This skateboardin' cat hero is painted on a skate deck that I got thanks to my friend Trevor. He skated this thing until it was a battered mess, and I really liked the used look of it. The cat and his friends are engaging in some party activities but they are good guys...never hurt anybody besides themselves and the ramp. The only thing that matters to them is whether or not it's raining and if the couch cushions have enough spare change lying around in them.

This deck is currently in the G40 Art Exhibit at Art Whino in Washington DC...they have a whole four story building that's packed to the rafters with art. You can check out this video (not filmed by me) to see some of the work in the building...this guy filmed the walkthrough with his iphone, I believe. It's really quite overwhelming to see the scope of the show they put on, so much respect for being able to pull it off. If you watch long enough, you can see my skate deck in the hallway for about a second. It's around the 7:20 mark if you don't have the patience to watch the whole video...but it's much better if you do!

Monster Attack (Beast Conflict) on a Tee (Shirt)

2011-03-29T19:35:00.000-07:00

Rick Kitagawa and I collaborated on this tee design, and printed them on the opening night of our latest show "Bestiarum Vocabulum". It features two finely illustrated beasts in a heated display. Each tee design is printed one by one onto the finest gray cotton fibers. Get your shirt and be the first on your block to sport a baffling image in public.

SF Weekly - Covering The Smiths

2011-03-25T13:46:00.000-07:00

Check it out this week in the SF Weekly paper!

This illustration is about a local SF woman who recorded the entire Smiths discography acapella. I have not heard this recording myself, but I hope to get a hold of it one day. Here are some of my preliminary sketches that didn't make it to print, just fer fun!

PixArt blog feature!

2011-03-22T19:30:00.000-07:00

I am very honored to be featured on the Pixar blog PixArt this month! Big thanks to Jerrod Maruyama for reaching out and giving me the opportunity to give my own spin on some Monsters, Inc faves:

You can check out the full feature and the brief interview here!

I am a Cryptozoologist!

2011-03-09T12:59:00.000-08:00

Cryptozoology (from Greek κρυπτός, kryptos, "hidden" + zoology; literally, "study of hidden animals") refers to the search for animals whose existence has not been proven. This includes looking for living examples of animals that are considered extinct, such as dinosaurs; animals whose existence lacks physical evidence but which appear in myths, legends, or are reported, such as Bigfoot and Chupacabra;[1] and wild animals dramatically outside their normal geographic ranges, such as phantom cats or "ABCs" (an initialism commonly used by cryptozoologists that stands for Alien Big Cats).

Fellow Cryptozoologist Rick Kitagawa and I are hot on the trail of over 20 different legendary creatures. So far, we have collected our field notes, rough sketches, and dream journals to create the artwork that is now on display at San Francisco's Big Umbrella Studios. Here are a few of my completed studies: The Kraken, The European Dragon, and The Cyclops.

The Kraken:

The European Dragon:

The Cylcops:

Together, we hope to finally round all these creatures up for further study and analysis. With these careful renderings, hopefully we have increased the chances of this happening. Now it is up to you, young Cryptozoologists-in-training, to visit these paintings at Big Umbrella Studios and study them together. With the knowledge that we have shared, together we can further our field of study and secure places in the Museum of Natural History for these creatures.

http://bigumbrellastudios.com/

"Bestiarum Vocabulum: The Book of the Beasts"

2011-02-24T10:50:00.000-08:00

Art show time!

I have teamed up with fellow Renaissance man Rick Kitagawa for this upcoming collaborative monster-based show at Big Umbrella Studios! Check it out on Friday March 4th! The show will feature many monsters, food carts, and live t-shirt screen printing by Rick and I.

Join us for the "Bestiarum Vocabulum" art opening featuring the work of painters/illustrators Grant Gilliland and Rick Kitagawa.

From the elusive cyclops to the dangerous succubus, from trolls to water spirits, we often think of mythological beasts as simply mythological. Grant Gilliland and Rick Kitagawa beg to differ. Let this pair of monster hunters bring these creatures to life in a series of all new paintings featuring a stable of unearthly beasts and "mythological" creatures from around the world that are just waiting to follow you home.

"Bestiarum Vocabulum"
featuring Grant Gilliland and Rick Kitagawa
w/works by the Big Umbrella Studio collective

Friday, March 4, 2011
7-11pm

*Collaborative Grant n' Rick t-shirt design printed live*
*food carts*

http://bigumbrellastudios.com/

Theo3eyes.com

2011-01-06T10:40:00.000-08:00

Author Kenny Lim and I are happy to announce that the Theo website Theo 3 Eyes is up and running! Soon you will be able to order a book from us directly from the site. For now, it is a portal to access the Theo iphone app, put out by iStorytime...which you can buy on iTunes. Hey, that's three i's in a row...makes sense! Our intentions are to have the site set up as an online book store. There will also be a list of boutiques that carry Theo, as well as a calendar to check out when Kenny and I are doing our next book signing. For now, we are focusing on local Bay Area schools, but we are open to any other locations if the opportunity presents itself.

Check out the app here!

Thank you to everyone who has downloaded the app and/or left a comment on iTunes...we love reading the feedback. It's also worth mentioning that Theo has been featured on the iTunes "Hot List" several times in 2010...which really made our year!

Fabric 8 Holiday Show!

2010-12-21T09:48:00.001-08:00

My good pals Olivia and Anthony at Fabric 8 asked me to help create the sign for their Holiday group show "A Plethora of Enchanted Delights". I found myself enchanted and delighted at this opportunity...which I later thought to be quite fitting!

Ideas were tossed around at the shop...then after I picked them up, I sketched them out on paper. The three of us unanimously decided to go with a big tree shape for the sign, and then add some little bird friends that could float around whimsically, as they tend to do. Anthony gave me a big ol' plank of wood to draw the tree and the birds onto and then proceeded to cut them out with a handheld saw while I stood around making faces. I then took my newfound woody pals home and began the painting process...or mixin' pigments, as I like to say! *cue slide whistle noise*

Boy was that tree wood absorbent! It took a few coats before the greens started to look nice and rich...like a distant uncle. Luckily, I had some podcasts loaded up to help my mind wander as I painted green 'till the (non-literal) cows came home. They came home late by the way...smelling of distilled spirits.

Whew! Now that the paint was dry and layered up nice and decent, it was time to letter the heck out of this old tree. It took a while to compose the title so everything fit in a coherent fashion, but this was the most fun part of all. I realized I hadn't done any lettering in a while, so I was trying to be aware of the fact that people might actually need to read this thing.

"A Plethora of Enchanted Delights? Whoa...I better go in there and check this out!"
-you

Double sided? You bet! Here's the side that faces Guerrero Street...

...and here's the side that faces Valencia, or "Valensha!" if you're riding Muni.

Please do check out this great group show if you live in SF...there are over 100 pieces in the gallery for this particular installment. I made three pieces for it, the Pugs already sold...but the Boston and the Frenchie are still there!

www.fabric8.com
(415) 647-5888

A Theo Xmas!

2010-12-15T10:16:00.000-08:00

Good news! Theo is now available in a hardcopy version! Each book is 8.5 inches square, offset printed, and can be picked up for $14 at Lower Haters. Give them a call or stop by and pick one up before they are gone!

Lower Haters
597 Haight Street
SF, CA 94117
(415) 864-6549
(Holiday Hours) M-Sun 12-7pm
(Regular Hours) T-Sun 12-7pm

Those Darn Dogs!

2010-12-14T13:08:00.000-08:00

At Fabric 8...

www.fabric8.com
(415) 647-5888

Lower Haters Holiday Show

2010-12-13T21:08:00.000-08:00

This is my wall at Lower Haters!

The work shown is for their latest group show "all the little things" which will be hanging until January 8th.

Lower Haters is located at:
597 Haight Street
San Francisco, CA 94117
415-864-6549

What's Ye Thankful Fer?

2010-11-25T13:58:00.001-08:00

On this memorial day of thanks, we here at Gross Uncle Industries would like to gather around the internet-shaped dinner table and share our mutual appreciation of:

Moist towelettes (unscented)

The cat across the street who recently lost it's voice.

Stock photos of people on old-timey phones.

Most puddings.

Shoe horns...love 'em!

Herb's Deli and Walkman Repair on 17th.

Various recurring dreams of eating our way out of a fudge-based building.

The smell of having a shirt that's actually been washed.

Old rich ladies in distress.

The idea to invent peanut butter dispensing machines.

Unicycle comedy.

Eyebrow maintenance outlets.

Stress balls.

Dogs that carry booze.

Hyper-vigilant bag ladies.

and most importantly, headwear that has buckles...for protection.

What are you thankful for?

Creature Comforts - 11.12.2010

2010-10-26T10:36:00.000-07:00

"Creature Comforts" is coming to Lower Haters this November!

This is a two person show featuring Martin Hsu and myself...please check it out if you are in the Bay Area.

"Creature Comforts"
New works by Martin Hsu & Grant Gilliland
Nov. 12th-Dec 8th
Reception: Friday, Nov 12th 7pm-10pm
Lower Haters Gallery
597 Haight St @Steiner
lowerhater.com

Tasty art at Jubili

2010-09-25T21:03:00.000-07:00

I have seven new works on display at Jubili, a frozen yogurt and cereal shop located in the Fillmore District of San Francisco. The pieces consist of giant cereal eating dinosaurs, greedy cats, and usual crew of animal types mugging while enjoying sweets. All of the pieces were inspired by the impeccably clean and fun aesthetics of Jubili (note the wavy white yogurt walls!), and each one was hand painted with a colored-yogurt airbrush gun!

Okay, not really...I think they stopped making those...but I meant to use one! That's how they used to do art for yogurt shops, I heard. The pieces turned out just fine regardless, and they are up for your viewing pleasure during Jubili's regular business hours.

Jubili
1515 Fillmore Street
San Francisco, CA 94115
415.292.9955

Monday-Sunday 10am-11pm

This post also serves as the online price list. To inquire about purchasing a piece, email me or call Jubili.

"Hongry Catz"
24x36
$600

"Lemony Mouth"
18x24
$350

"Cat Scoops"
12x18
$300

"Cruncha-saurus"
18x24
$375

"Cupcake Bandit"
12x18
$300

"French Cat"
18x24
$375

"Slushy Beak"
12x18
$280

Doodle Book

2010-09-04T23:52:00.001-07:00

The back of a sketchbook.

Remote Gamin'

2010-09-02T17:37:00.000-07:00

Hey Gary, the bus left fifteen minutes ago.

Vans Warped Tour: the "Gateway Drug" of Music Festivals

2010-08-16T16:11:00.000-07:00

I was recently asked by the great folks at the Seattle Weekly to provide my unique interpretation for an article about the Vans Warped Tour for their Music section. In the piece, author Sara Brickner describes the Warped Tour as "indie 101" for kids in the boonies, as well as the "gateway drug of music festivals". I couldn't have agreed more.

What better place to bring your young and impressionable mind than the Vans Warped Tour? As a youngster growing up in the suburbs of Ohio, I found solace and inspiration in the music of many bands that have shared the Warped Tour stage. Punk rock music came out of left field and infused my life with a newfound energy and drive. Each CD that I bought was a well of sonic inspiration to my life and helped influence the independent attitude that was beginning to develop in me. I still have a soft spot for many bands like NOFX, The Descendants, Op Ivy, and The Vandals...they were the soundtrack to my life as a teenager. Even as my music tastes have changed over the years, I still look at punk rock as a guiding force that trained my senses to look for originality and honest expression in all forms of art.

I decided to approach the piece from a very simple visual perspective. The main focus, besides the green mohawked-child, is a talking children's book that features 5 very distinct bands that range from pop to punk...but have all either been on a Warped Tour lineup, or have influenced bands that have. The bands whose logos I chose to represent the steps are Good Charlotte, Yellowcard, Pennywise, NOFX, and Subhumans. Pretty drastic last step I suppose, but I figured it would really drive it home. Enjoy!

Pencil sketch:

Inked:

Color final:

Final layout:

Scott Hull interviews on EFII podcast

2010-07-14T13:31:00.000-07:00

My rep Scott Hull just wrapped up his second interview with Thomas James from the popular illustration podcast "Escape From Illustration Island"...he offers a double serving of insightful answers and thought provoking questions relevant to the current Illustration/Design industry. Scott always knocks interview questions outta the park!

Check out his first interview on episode 31 of EFII, and then stay tuned for Scott's second interview on episode number 41:

EFII Episode 31: Artist Representative Scott Hull

Ichiro Suzuki of the Seattle Mariners

2010-07-12T21:37:00.000-07:00

He has game! For the Seattle Weekly.

Will you sign my copy please?

2010-07-12T21:30:00.000-07:00

Yea bro (for Anthony)

2010-06-30T11:59:00.000-07:00

This big-hatted sports fan goes out to Anthony in Portland, ME...thanks Anthony!

If you would like a custom-made $20 drawing for yourself, then email 20dollardrawings@gmail.com and ask for one.

Two new paintings for Fabric8

2010-06-26T19:34:00.000-07:00

Made these two 6x12 paintings especially for the walls of the mighty Fabric8! Go check them out if you live in San Francisco.

Vengeful Ape (for John)

2010-06-23T10:14:00.001-07:00

This shaky-fisted ape goes out to John in Mississippi, thanks John!

Want to get an original sharpied-up $20 drawing of your own? Then send a request to 20dollardrawings@gmail.com and I'll make you one!

Shanky Two-Wheels

2010-06-08T10:02:00.000-07:00

Knife pokes and crooked spokes.

SF Weekly - Best of San Francisco 2010 Issue

2010-05-20T10:25:00.001-07:00

The SF Weekly's "Best of San Francisco" issue has officially hit the stands...and it features dozens of local artists, including myself. The issue is extremely fresh looking and boasts three different front covers, so collect 'em all! Cover artists include locals Reuben Rude, Brian Barneclo, and Chris Koehler...all three covers are distinctly awesome and look great sticking out of the SF Weekly newsstands...and would look just as appropriate hanging from a wall in a nice frame.

I was asked to contribute an illustration to go with the city's pick for "Best Bike Fashion", won by the store Pushbike. It was great to work with art director Andrew Nilsen on this one, and I'm super happy to be sharing the pages with some of the city's best local art talent.

Sketchy Shakes ©

2010-05-06T21:02:00.000-07:00

A super wow-shake with whatevs and all the fixins please!

Oh Man

2010-05-04T19:08:00.000-07:00

Man Catshoe or Cat Shoeman?

2010-04-27T22:15:00.000-07:00

Here are two new custom painted Vans shoes...

This pair is called Oh, S'cuse!

This pair is called Get Big Faced...

$20 Newbies!

2010-04-18T11:15:00.000-07:00

These square animals (squarenimals?) go out to Kirsten in BC...thanks Kirsten!

Is it $20 drawing time? Send your requests to 20dollardrawings@gmail.com

Self Portrait (for Sarah)

2010-04-13T12:45:00.000-07:00

This charming and photogenic fella goes out to Sarah in New York...thanks Sarah!

Send $20 dollar requests to 20dollardrawings@gmail.com

Gross Uncle /// Vans Store DC

2010-04-13T12:14:00.000-07:00

My recently completed "Step Brothas" shoes are now up in the soon-to-be open and sure-to-be awesome Vans store in DC!

The display looks really great, and the other artists that I am paired with look top-notch. Big thanks to Erin Enhelder at Vans for asking me to be a part of these great displays. I will have custom shoes featured in four more Vans stores across the country...so stay tuned for more in-store pics from across this great land.

Lurkers Anonymous

2010-04-07T11:39:00.001-07:00

Founding member.

That Guy

2010-04-06T12:37:00.000-07:00

OMG, don't look now...
but that guy is still there.

sludge x core

2010-04-05T12:00:00.000-07:00

makes ah me sweat.

Methods of Attraction: #32

2010-04-02T13:37:00.001-07:00

Here we observe the male specimen engaged in a jaunty display of affection. This particular move is composed of gentle hip and knee swivels that allow the females within earshot to hear his wet and squishy dress socks.

Theo News - new website and iphone app

2010-03-29T18:14:00.000-07:00

Everyone's favorite three-eyed wonder-child just got his very own website and iphone app:

www.theo3eyes.com

The talented author Kenny Lim and myself are celebrating the new website with a downloadable iphone app version of the book. Please check out the app, rate it, review it, and pass it on!

We are also getting the real-deal physical books of Theo printed very soon, and they will also be available through the new website...I will post a big-old happy entry here when they are ready to be shipped out. Hint! Following my blog makes this easier to find out (emoticon smiley face).

Big thanks to David as well as the great folks at FrogDog Media...and also to the people who have reviewed the Theo app on iTunes, we appreciate it big time!

Re: freelance wingman ($30/hr)

2010-03-24T12:21:00.001-07:00

Skull Flurries and Step Brothas...

2010-03-12T15:29:00.000-08:00

Here are two painted Vans customs I recently completed...

Skull Flurries:

Step Brothas:

My Favorite Things!

2010-03-05T10:59:00.000-08:00

"Coffee 'n Mixtapes", acrylic on panel, 12in. x 6in.

This painting was made for the show "My Favorite Things" at the Fabric8 Gallery. Check out the other pieces from the exhibit online at Fabric8's blog!

Poofy Wedge-Head and Nub Tail

2010-02-21T18:34:00.000-08:00

Here are two of my latest $20 drawings...both went to two Kentuckians...the first one goes out to Mr. Flint Bone, and the second goes out to my CCAD-alum friend Eric. Speaking of Kentucky, I'll bet that both Eric and Mr. Flint have seen the big giant water tower near the Cinci/Kentucky border that says "Florence Y'all" on it.

Flint's piece:

Eric's piece:

Oh, and speaking of Y'all...

If you all would like a $20 drawing for your home/vacation cottage/bio dome, please do not hesitate! Email 20dollardrawings@gmail.com today!

RAWR

2010-01-22T09:18:00.000-08:00

sportswear.

BTMN & RBN

2010-01-20T06:40:00.000-08:00

...just moved to the neighborhood.

A Hearty Slice of Humble Pie

2010-01-16T06:03:00.000-08:00

So you read the Sharpie interview, now let's see what happens when I am interviewed without the time to prepare answers...in real time! Well, sort of. Yes, folks I'm talking about the tried-and-true video interview...and I had a chance to stick my big nose in front of the camera and get all philosophical up in there.

So please check out this interview with my friend Mig Reyes, the super designer-hero (also a past Sharpie-Blog interviewee!) and the brains behind the website Humble Pied. This is a really fun and inspirational site that features different creatives sharing one piece of advice over iChat. There are some very influential folks on Humble Pied that Mig has interviewed...it almost makes me wonder why my lanky, rambly self was even asked to share the stage with them! But hey, it's great to be part of such good company, and I am very inspired by Mig and all his friends.

So please watch, wonder, squint your eyes in an inquisitive way, and if you feel motivated...leave a comment!

http://www.humblepied.com/grant-gilliland/

Feature/Interview on the Sharpie Blog

2010-01-08T13:35:00.000-08:00

Well how do ya like that? Looks like all those years of accidentally inhaling Sharpie fumes finally paid off! To my surprise, and great fortune, I recently got in touch with Whitney Kelly, head of PR and Social Media at Sharpie. We connected via Twitter a few months ago and she later asked if I would be so kind to answer questions about my work and talk about how I use Sharpies on a regular basis. I responded with a resounding "Yes!", which I later felt weird about because I screamed it out loud in response to an email...so after calming down and wiping the little spit dots off my computer screen, I figured it out, and here we are!

Whitney asked some really great questions, and I did my best to answer them in a way that made it sound like I was not having heart palpitations about the whole thing...in a good way. I hope you will find the interview informative and fun, check it out!

http://blog.sharpie.com/2010/01/well-ill-be-a-sharpies-uncle/

Jasper Stymie

2010-01-07T09:38:00.000-08:00

Ten year old Jasper Stymie was last seen around 10pm on Thanksgiving day in 2009, before he reportedly hitchhiked his way out West to flee his hometown of Kremlin, Oklahoma. Many locals that knew the Stymie family cited young Jasper's social problems as a strong possible motive to run away, but otherwise knew very little about the boy. It was clear the whole family was a bit of a mystery to this small town...and those that came forward to the press seemed to have their guard up.

"Pretty much everytime I went to get a Diet Mr.Pibb from the store, that kid was firing bottle rockets at our goats when I got back," said a local shirtless man who asked to remain anonymous. "I'd have called Child Services on 'em if his Dad didn't help me sell my ATV...it's a shame though."

"My Mom's pool boy used to babysit him, and he told me that he refused to eat anythin' except the heads of gummi animal snacks, true story," said a sweatsuit-wearing local woman, who also asked to have her name omitted.

During the second week of Jaspers' disappearance, local authorities in Kremlin began noticing an uncommon number of decapitated sheep bodies showing up around the outskirts of several family farms in the area. At the site of one such beheading, Deputy Don Mesmer told reporters "Mmmm...well it happens sometimes, everyone makes mistakes when they first start shearin' them...but this seems too calculated to be just the overzealous, shaky hand of a farmer that's tryin' to make ends meet." After blowing his nose with what appeared to be a used KFC napkin, the Deputy asked the media to clear the crime scene, where a small strand of purple hair was reported to have been found.

Awkward Party 2010!

2009-12-31T07:44:00.001-08:00

Hello Ralph!

Hello Bjorn!

Hello Milosh!

Hello Norris!

Hello Tonkis!

Hello Abner!

Hello New Year!

The Thunder Chunky Time Capsule

2009-12-21T13:33:00.001-08:00

Is there a good shorthand term for the 2000's?

Now that the Double 0 Whatevers are almost over, it's time to anticipate the upcoming newer, fresher, and hopefully better sounding decade. But before you toss out your Y2K memorabilia and forget it all, why not take a look back at the previous ten years and see what great works some of our favorite artists have selected as their quintessential period piece.

UK-based art portal Thunder Chunky has decided to feature a great roster of artists...and I am very honored to be a part of said roster. I decided to pick my first pair of custom Vans (previously posted on this very blog in late 2007) for my pivotal piece of (in their words) "the Noughties"...

Visit the whole presentation at http://www.thunderchunky.co.uk/tc_time_capsule_2010/

Besides sounding like a stellar name for a peanut butter/chocolate ice cream and/or professional wrestler, Thunder Chunky is a great source of inspiration and is run by some great folks...special thanks to the mighty generous Jon Raffe for keeping me in the loop and inviting me to be a part of this and other great features.

Puss N' Boots

2009-12-21T13:27:00.000-08:00

I created this version of Puss in Boots for my friend Chris from SF Station...it's going to be used as a design for a tattoo.

Totally Basically

2009-12-15T06:35:00.000-08:00

Pencil sketch.

Bird Head and Big Bear ($20 drawings)

2009-12-01T10:51:00.000-08:00

Get your own fancy $20 drawing today! Email 20dollardrawings@gmail.com

Hollywood Stimulus (for LA Weekly)

2009-11-19T05:14:00.001-08:00

I created this illustration for this week's issue of the LA Weekly...grab a copy if you live in the area!

"Bursting Their Bubble" Illustrations for Metro Parent

2009-11-17T06:43:00.000-08:00

The November 2009 issue of Metro Parent features two spot illustrations I did for an article called "Bursting Their Bubble". The article talks about how to teach your kids the concept of "less is more" when it comes to gift giving. Grab a copy of Metro Parent (it's free!) if you happen to live in or around Detroit, MI.

Shanky Schoolboy (for Jordan)

2009-11-10T06:49:00.000-08:00

This lil' playground trouble maker of a $20 drawing goes out to Jordan in South Africa...thanks Jordan!

Wanna get a sharp-looking $20 drawing served right to your door? Email me at 20dollardrawings@gmail.com and we'll make it happen!

Lil' Tiger (for Michelle)

2009-11-06T04:26:00.000-08:00

This lovable google eyed feline goes out to Michelle in New York...thanks Michelle!

Want to get a lil' lovable $20 drawing for yourself? Email me at 20dollardrawings@gmail.com and we'll make it happen!

Excelsior! (for Joseph)

2009-11-05T13:51:00.000-08:00

This scabby cauldron dabbler goes out to Joseph in New York...thanks Joseph!

Looking to have an original $20 drawing for yourself? Email me at 20dollardrawings@gmail.com and I'll fix one up for you.

Sharpie Love

2009-11-03T04:37:00.001-08:00

Just some casual face doodling, courtesy of the greatest marker around.

Happy Halloween!

2009-10-29T08:20:00.001-07:00

Unidogger (for Ross)

2009-10-28T05:16:00.000-07:00

This free-wheelin' bean dog goes out to Ross in London...thanks Ross!

Wanna get your own personalized drawing? Email me at 20dollardrawings@gmail.com and I'll make you one!

No Friggin' Way!

2009-10-27T06:15:00.001-07:00

Small Tiny Adorable Etsy Shoppe!

2009-10-23T08:05:00.000-07:00

I have re-set up my small Etsy shop with some fun and silly original drawings...all of them are $20 each...and often feature a cute animal doing something stupid. Hop on over!

This little guy...named "Poo Cat" has sold though.

Gross Uncle Etsy Shoppe!

Bid on our custom deck!

2009-10-21T06:28:00.000-07:00

The custom skateboard that Jillian and I created together is now up for online auction along with the rest of the boards from the Good Wood show in Philly. Check it out and get it while it's still up!

To bid, follow this link:

https://www.cmarket.com/auction/item/Item.action?id=98356316

Good Wood Show at Slingluff Gallery, Philly

2009-10-19T07:01:00.000-07:00

This weekend, Jillian and I went to Philly for the Good Wood show, a custom skateboard art exhibition held at the Slingluff Gallery. There was also a silent auction going on for all of the boards on display, with proceeds going to benefit a Philadelphia based youth organization called Stay True. The silent auction will continue online for an entire month, so the decks will still be available to bid on...I will post a link to the online gallery once it's up. Jillian and I collaborated on a board for the show (two dogs) and drove all the way to Philly to hand-deliver it!

There were a ton of great boards on display, and I finally got to meet some of Jillian's artist friends from CCS. Even though it rained most of the time we were there (which was probably about 14 hours), we had a great time...and I hope to see Philadelphia again soon.

A Finished Pair of Vans Customs, From Start to Finish

2009-10-13T14:00:00.000-07:00

I have wanted to do a blog post like this for a long time! Whenever I get the opportunity to customize some shoes, I make sure to take a few nice, non-shakyhand pictures of the final product. Yet for some reason, the process of really documenting the work in incremental steps never gets done whenever I decide to paint a pair.

BUT NOT THIS TIME!

I was recently asked by the people at Vans to create a fancy new pair of painted Vans shoes to be put on display in their flagship store in Las Vegas. I had to look up the definition of "flagship" when I read the email, because I figured I'd have to write the word in this post...it means (according to Wikipedia) "the most important or leading member of a group"...it used to be just a sea-faring type word, but it has since crossed over to more common, everyday use. But basically, in sailing terms, this Vegas Store is like the Santa Maria...if pilgrims wore Vans...what?

Anyways, I like Vans and their people...so I said yes to the idea...and here is how it all went down:

I got a package in the mail from the Vans HQ...I'm not going to write the address in case it's underground and hidden...and in case I missed that non-disclosure portion of the email...I skim emails...who doesn't? So I get a brand new pair of pearly white Vans delivered to my doorstep:

Aren't they so fresh looking that you just wanna stomp on 'em? Well...I wanted to...but instead I channeled that odd playground bully-type rage into a productive act...I just squuueeeezed some white paint out into a 3oz bathroom cup from Wal-Mart instead!

My fingers look like Play-Doh, I know...let's focus OK? This is the part where I got the shoes ready to be painted...which is definitely the most boring part...so be sure to have a podcast or two all loaded up when you start this portion. I happened to hear some great infomercials (on the tv, not in my head) when I was working on this pair of shoes. That can be helpful, or maddening...so proceed with caution.

Now that the most unrewarding part of the process was done, I felt relieved...and finally it was time to get down to some things that MATTER...like stupid-looking drawings of cats and dogs! So I grabbed my red colored pencil (I just use it because I like the color, a regular pencil is also OK to use) and loosely doodled the characters all over the shoes. I decided to go with the right shoe for the dogs, and the left shoe for the cats:

Putting the characters on the shoe didn't take very long...I always find the quicker, the better...things can always be labored over in the painting process. So I grabbed another handy little Wal-Mart bathroom spitty cup and mixed up black paint with a generous amount of water. Lots of water in your paint makes for a nice fluid texture and it makes smooth lines much easier.

Now the scribbly lined characters done in pencil are about to be solidified! I tend to work in patchy areas all over the shoe, and just paint in the parts that look the most interesting to me at the time...it also keeps me from getting stuck in one particular area and just overworking a character's eyeball for an hour...which can happen and is an unfortunate waste of time. I like to start on the front of the shoe first, and if I stuff my hand into the shoe, it helps the surface stay nice and flat...which allows for cleaner lines.

So at this point, the linework is not perfect, but it is all filled in with paint... and that's good, because when it's coloring time and the lines aren't dark and strong, the paint will just cover it all up.

In typical me-style painting, I like to pick a nice random color to start with and just see how it goes once it's all down. So I figure blue is always a winner...and looks clean...so I mixed up a nice amount of blue (for probably waaay too long) and started putting it down onto the shoe...in very much the same way a child might put the marker to a coloring book.

Once the blue was all down on the dog shoe, I couldn't image doing that again...so I picked a pinkish magenta color for the cat shoe and got to coloring...

Here's what happened at the end of that day:

I had the idea to use the blue for the characters on the pink shoe...and then use the pink for the characters on the blue shoe, in order to tie it all together...after congratulating myself for arriving at this stunningly obvious design conclusion, I went back to work...

So I liked where this ended up here...but something felt a little unfinished about these shoes. I decided it was all that white everywhere...so I broke out the black paint again and slapped it to the soles! Or to put it more clearly, I painted the soles of the shoes with black paint...c'mon, get hip to it!

Boom! Now there's a bit more contrast going on here...and I also decided to fill in the lil' elastic band part with black too.

Okay, now where were we? Ah yes, face to face with a chubby blue kitty:

Most of my time at this point is spent laboring over little details and making small marks with a small paintbrush...cleaning up linework and crisping things up...also a good time to listen to your local newscast or anything banal enough to not distract you too badly.

Now that the linework has reached a coherent stage...I can apply a nice shade of red to the side and back tags of the shoes! This will successfully give a more personalized look, and it will give me the chance at re-creating the Vans logo in my own "font".

Annnnd with these final details all sorted out...the shoes look like they are DONE!

Now it's time to chuck that nasty paint rag! Hey raggy, get a job! This one's over!

Now I will no doubt spend a little more time (at least two days) letting the shoes just kinda hang out in the living room before mailing them out to the Las Vegas Vans store.

Well if you've made it this far down the page...thanks for taking the time! I am looking forward to hearing what you think of how it all turned out.

Swami Sticklegs, Friendly Monster, Mustache Jig, and the Centaur (for Rory)

2009-10-08T14:00:00.000-07:00

This hearty batch of $20 drawings was sent out to Rory in the UK...thanks Rory!

Whether you order just one or many, I'm pleased to do them...so if you're in the mood for an original drawing, send me a request at 20dollardrawings@gmail.com and I'll make you one!

In Progress: Vans Customs, the Flickr Photoset

2009-10-05T06:03:00.000-07:00

I am currently customizing a new pair of Vans slip-ons. To see all my workings, hop on over to the photoset I've created to document the whole process, from beginning prep, to final paint. I will eventually put the final result here at The Gross Uncle in one big tutorial-style post, but for now you can check the progress as it happens over at my Flickr page.

Stay tuned!

Ski Masker (for Tam)

2009-10-02T06:12:00.000-07:00

This itchy-faced bird-lover goes out to Tam (http://www.okedoki.com) in Canada...thanks Tam!

Ever find yourself wanting an original drawing? Yeah? Email me at 20dollardrawings@gmail.com and I'll make you one!

Texty Biz Man (for Karl)

2009-10-01T05:09:00.000-07:00

This multi-tasker bizzynessman of a $20 drawing goes out to Mr. Karl in Australia...thanks Karl!

Why not get your own original drawing this instant? Email me at 20dollardrawings@gmail.com and I'll make you one!

Kitten N' A Biscuit (for Andrew)

2009-10-01T05:07:00.001-07:00

This $20 drawing goes out to Andrew in the UK...thanks Andrew!

Wanna get yourself a fancy original drawing? Email me at 20dollardrawings@gmail.com and I'll make you one!

My Drinkin' Helmet (for Amy)

2009-09-29T13:12:00.000-07:00

This drinky-cap wearin' $20 drawing goes out to Amy in Torrance, CA...thanks Amy!

Get your hands on an original drawing of your very own! Email me at 20dollardrawings@gmail.com and I'll make you one!

The Dunce Cap Diaries

2009-09-28T14:24:00.000-07:00

Gerrald's book sold millions...despite the doubts of many.

JR Scooterman

2009-09-28T06:07:00.000-07:00

I made this painting of a happy scooter-gent for my Dad's birthday...Happy Birthday Dad!

Baby Gang (for Noel)

2009-09-27T07:59:00.000-07:00

This roundy-duo of a $20 drawing goes out to Noel in New Jersey...thanks Noel!

Wanna get your hands on a personalized, original drawing? Email me at 20dollardrawings@gmail.com and I'll make you one!

String Bean Spacey (for Eric)

2009-09-26T09:07:00.000-07:00

This brand, shiny-new $20 dollar drawing goes out to Mr. Eric Blair in Florida...thanks Eric!

Wanna acquire a glossy-new original drawing of your own? Email me at 20dollardrawings@gmail.com and I'll make you one!

Houston Press "Best Of" Issue

2009-09-25T09:29:00.000-07:00

Last month I made a few illustrations for the Houston Press "Best Of" issue...now that the issue is printed, I can finally post them! There were a number of interesting topics to choose from, but I ended up picking: Best Place to Feel Alive, Best Library, Best Place to People Watch, and Best 15 Minutes of Fame.

Best Place to Feel Alive (biking in the vacant downtown area on a Sunday afternoon):

Best Library (Freed-Montrose branch):

Best Place to People Watch (Hermann Park):

Best 15 Minutes of Fame (Hurricane Bear...You Tube it!):

Soccer Ball Donk (for Mark)

2009-09-25T09:19:00.000-07:00

Ooof mah dome! This star player goes out to another star player named Mark in Indianapolis...thanks Mark!

Want me to serve you a fine original of your own? Email me at 20dollardrawings@gmail.com and I'll make you one!

Turtle Ride (for Jess)

2009-09-25T09:16:00.000-07:00

Thanks to Jess from San Francisco, CA! This $20 drawing is based on a real-life incident that I once witnessed...it didn't end well, by the way.

Fancy a drawing of your own? Email me at 20dollardrawings@gmail.com and I'll make you one!

Interviewer (for Dylan)

2009-09-23T05:30:00.000-07:00

This $20 drawing is a depiction of a savvy host and it goes out to my friend Dylan in South Africa...thanks Dylan!

Wanna get an original drawing of your own? Email me at 20dollardrawings@gmail.com and I'll make you one!

Sassy 'Quatch

2009-09-23T05:27:00.000-07:00

Jammin steamheaded yeti (smallfoot variety) in the forest! Colored sketch in Photoshop.

$20 Drawings - featured on CreepMachine

2009-09-16T12:48:00.000-07:00

Today, a big Gross Uncle-style thanks goes out to Mr. Josh from Creep Machine...who posted an entry saying some very nice things about my $20 drawings...thanks for getting the word out, Josh! I mailed the aforementioned lowbrow art blogger mastermind/ringleader a fine creepy-weirdo doodle last week...and apparently, it went over quite well. This is good news...and for those of you who do not want to scroll down to see the piece, which I dubbed "Creepster 2.0", it can be seen at this previous post. So either click it up or scroll it down, whatever your personal style may be!

As always, if you want your very own hand-crafted Sharpie creation, Email me at 20dollardrawings@gmail.com and we'll get you set up!