psychopooch :: illustrations, doodles & other random stuff

IF: Obsession

2011-08-01T18:13:00.008-04:00

Illustration Friday: Obsession, originally uploaded by psychopooch.

A few years ago, my illustration blog took a turn and I became obsessed with drawing Zucco and I think it was all to prepare me for this. Yesterday my stubborn 'lil psychopooch Zucco finally lost his battle with heart disease. I miss him very much right now.

I want to thank Illustration Friday and the IF community for what you've done for me in the last few years. I may not post as often as I would like but I certainly have kept up with sketches as weekly topics have been posted. Thank you for giving me a way to let Zucco live on outside of my memories of him. The illo here is actually something I've done not too long ago while Zucco was still alive based on a previous IF topic (midsummer night). I think a part of me knew he was getting closer to leaving us. Rob and I were with him to the very end so this illustration seems appropriate to share right now.

I also want to end this post on a happier note. A month ago Rob and I got engaged. Zucco was with us at the time as we took him out for a walk. Right before the proposal, Zucco managed to fart a wet one with Rob holding him. Yes, he sharted all over Rob's proposal and we wouldn't want it any other way as he will forever be part of our story when friends ask how it happened. That's why he's our psychopooch.

Missing You My 'Lil Psychopooch

2011-07-31T22:04:00.003-04:00

Sportin' Some FriendsWithYou Love, originally uploaded by psychopooch.

I've lost my bestest buddy for the last 12+ years today. Missing you very much Zucco.

IF: Shadow

2011-06-08T15:11:00.003-04:00

Illustration Friday: Shadow, originally uploaded by psychopooch.

When I saw the topic this week, the first thing that popped into my head was the scene in Peter Pan where Wendy helps him out by sewing his shadow back on. Rather than sketching that exact scene though, I decided to draw Zucco stitching his own shadow. This time I played around with Procreate on the iPad.

IF: Soaked

2011-06-01T12:30:00.004-04:00

Illustration Friday: Soaked, originally uploaded by psychopooch.

Missed the deadline for last week's Illustration Friday topic but figured I'd post anyway. This was a little sketch I was playing around with. Still learning and getting used to using Sketchbook Pro on the iPad and still constantly amazed by works I've seen done by other artists on an iPad.

IF: Asleep

2011-05-31T10:36:00.004-04:00

Illustration Friday: Asleep, originally uploaded by psychopooch.

Not the first time I've drawn Zucco sleeping but this is the first time I've done it with a watercolor type app. Used Auryn Ink for this along with the Nomad Brush. Still playing around but have to say, it's a fun combo for sketching on the iPad.

IF: Bicycle

2011-04-28T12:24:00.008-04:00

Illustration Friday: Bicycle, originally uploaded by psychopooch.

A different illustration style with Zucco. The original bike sketch was done as commissioned project for a relative. Unfortunately the project took a change in direction so the spot illustration was scrapped. Decided to revamp it slightly for this week's topic and added Zucco to the piece. My psychopooch has definitely lost a bit more energy these days so I'm sure he'd rather be in the trailer than running along side the bike. ^_^

MAD: Proverb

2011-03-14T14:52:00.016-04:00

Monday Artday: Proverb, originally uploaded by psychopooch.

"A bird does not sing because it has an answer, it sings because it has a song."
~ Chinese Proverb*

Felt this quote/proverb was appropriate for this illustration (and I guess most other illustrations I've done so far). I've participated in a lot of drawing groups and have given myself multiple assignments. A lot of times, these personal projects involve me trying to find an answer to the topic at hand. However, deep down in my subconscious, I don't think I'm really answering anything at all. At the end, I draw what I want to draw and come up with some sort of rationale to fit the assignment. I bet that is the case with most other illustrators who participate in either Illustration Friday, Monday Artday, Art Jumble or other similar self motivated creative challenges. These assignments bring out the song that is already there (that is the great thing about these assignments, btw). And this bird you see here? This started out as a doodle I did 2 months ago. This assignment just gave me a reason to take my song further along and share it.

And on a side note, this quote, in a way also reminded me of an interview Sally Mann did for Art:21 on PBS. There was a part where she commented on critics looking for a deeper meaning to her photography specifically in reference to her dog bones prints. One of my favorite snippets in her response was this –

"These dog bones are just making art the way art should be made, I think, without any overarching reference. Just for fun, if you can imagine that. Art for fun. Sometimes it is fun."

And that is how I feel about a lot of my projects. I'm doing it because it's fun and I'm compelled to do it for me. No other deeper meaning beyond that. And if there's a way for me to share my "song" and other people happen to enjoy it (or maybe it speaks to them) then that's just an added bonus. You can read more of Sally Mann's interview here (highly recommended as it gives an interesting insight on how one artist approaches her work – actually I recommend the whole Art:21 series for the same reason since different contemporary artists are profiled).

*That is how I will credit the quote for now as there have been multiple attributes to the original source, like Maya Angelou and Lou Holtz. If someone can enlighten me on where it came from or what it is in Chinese, it would be appreciated.

MAD: Horse With Hands Riding A Bike

2011-02-24T16:38:00.004-05:00

Monday Artday: Horse With Hands Riding A Bike, originally uploaded by psychopooch.

Update 04.22.11 My submission for this week's Illustration Friday topic, Bicycle. Hope to find time to rework another illustration but for now hope you enjoy this little oldie I originally created for another drawing group.

It's been a while since I've participated in Monday Artday. Thought the topic this time around was rather specific so decided to take a stab at it. Ended up with an illustration of Zucco in a horse costume riding with two hands. Not sure why this popped into my head but I get the feeling it had its origin in this little sketch. Maybe one day I'll come with a story of how Zucco ended up in this situation.

IF: Layer

2011-02-18T18:12:00.002-05:00

Illustration Friday: Layer, originally uploaded by psychopooch.

This is based on the following friend's facebook status:
It smells too bacon-y in here. *breathes through mouth*

Decided to have some fun and drew my dog Zucco sucking in his breath trying to vacuum a piece of bacon (from a plate layered with bacon strips) towards him. In real life Zucco doesn't have super lungs, he does, however, have super speed. He can be pretty fast when sneaking food off the table.

Anyway, hope my friend was able to get away from the bacon smell. Pretty sure she didn't enjoy it quite as much as my dog.

IF: Sweater

2011-02-16T14:17:00.005-05:00

Illustration Friday: Sweater, originally uploaded by psychopooch.

I think Zucco is ready for warmer weather (and so am I). No matter how many layers I put on him, he still shivers. Guess it doesn't do any good as long as his butt is naked.

新年快樂! 恭喜發財!

2011-02-02T03:11:00.003-05:00

新年快樂! 恭喜發財!, originally uploaded by psychopooch.

To those ringing in the Year of the Rabbit,
have a prosperous and happy new year!

FB: Foot of Snow

2011-01-29T05:54:00.005-05:00

Foot of Snow, originally uploaded by psychopooch.

My friend posed the following question on Facebook:
Why do people drive with a foot of snow on top of their cars?

Not sure why but a giant foot (of snow) popped into my head. And then I thought, if I had a giant foot on my car, I might try to sell feet related ad space. I guess that would be a reason to drive around with a foot of snow on top of my car.

I really need to go for a walk...

On a serious note, driving with snow on your roof is dangerous. Unless you're making enough money on ads to cover harm and damages to other drivers, just don't do it ;)

IF: Surrender

2011-01-29T00:29:00.004-05:00

Illustration Friday: Surrender, originally uploaded by psychopooch.

This is something I started two weeks ago inspired from a friend's Facebook status. Still working on taking this further along but felt it was at a good spot to submit for this week's topic.

SBP 2011: Greatest Story Ever Told...

2011-01-27T11:12:00.008-05:00

through my friends' Facebook statuses and my psychopooch, Zucco.

Pics of my submission for the The Sketchbook Project 2011 is finally uploaded and organized. Another item checked off on my To-Do list. Yay!

Update 1.27.11 Just realized the embedded slideshow is flash. If you can't see it, go here.

IF: Dusty

2011-01-26T23:40:00.003-05:00

Illustration Friday: Dusty, originally uploaded by psychopooch.

Prior to getting a lower bed frame, my old set up used to give Zucco a decent amount of crawl space and I would find him under the bed all the time. I suspect it's because he had quite a few friends to play with. I think he misses them because every once in a while, I catch him making an attempt to squeeze under the new bed.

FB: Ships

2011-01-26T04:00:00.003-05:00

Ships, originally uploaded by psychopooch.

Did this sketch while taking a break from uploading pages of my submission to The Sketchbook Project. This was done a week and a half ago but never got around to posting here.

"There are big ships and small ships. But the best ships are friendships with you... thank you, for making my day extra special. xo"
~M 1/13/11

Kept the date as to when my friend posted the quote to facebook because it really was a special day ;) I do think it shouldn't be Zucco in there... maybe 2 pugs.

FB: Enchanted to Meet You

2011-01-19T10:48:00.007-05:00

Enchanted to Meet You, originally uploaded by psychopooch.

Guess Rob was channeling Taylor Swift with this Facebook status.

I realize Zucco is a boy but it felt right to put him in a pink tutu for this one. Plus, I've already placed Cinderalla slippers on him. Maybe because at the end of the day, he's really playing me to some degree (some say dogs reflect their owners).

Pssst... you know... psychopooch really is just another way of sayinging crazy bitch ;)

SBP 2011: Completed

2011-01-18T02:11:00.009-05:00

Sketchbook Project 2011: Completed, originally uploaded by psychopooch.

My sketchbook for The Sketchbook Project Tour is complete! Stay tuned. Will be uploading pages when I get the chance. In the meantime, here's what the cover looks like and the first entry is here.

FB: Random iPod Facebook Status #7

2011-01-18T01:40:00.004-05:00

Larry's FB Status #7, originally uploaded by psychopooch.

Random iPod status #7 (and presumably the last):
Seems like each time I'm with you I loose my mind, Because I'm bending over backwards to relate.

So, there was a little typo in Larry's status. Was wondering if I should correct it but decided to do an illo for "loose my mind" instead of "lose my mind." It was more fun for me. My brain is a little fried lately from working on the Sketchbook Project. Feel like I need to loosen up my mind and take a breather–maybe go for a walk...

Sadly, this is Larry's last status from his iPod. Need to find another Facebook profile to stalk now.

FB: Random iPod Facebook Status #6

2011-01-16T23:59:00.002-05:00

Larry's FB Status #6, originally uploaded by psychopooch.

Sometimes what you're after's not your fault, 'cause happy ever after's what you talk.

My mind is stuck on fairy tales right now.

Recap of what my friend Larry is doing with his FB status this week here.

FB: Random iPod Facebook Status #5

2011-01-16T14:04:00.003-05:00

Larry's FB Status #5, originally uploaded by psychopooch.

In the towers of steel, Belief goes on and on.

Taken out of context, this little snippet from U2 made me think of Rapunzel. I've always found this fairy tale a bit frightening. A kidnapped woman gets locked up in a tower for most of her life. Granted, she was well taken care of but still shielded from the ways of the world. And just when you think things are making a turn for the better, her lover gets blinded and doomed to wander in the dark while Rapunzel is left to fend for herself as a struggling single mother of twins. It all works out in the end. Through sheer dumb luck, Rapunzel finally meets up with her prince and they live happily ever after.

WTF?! I thought fairy tales were supposed to teach you something? Is the moral of the tale to stay ignorant of the world around you and keep to your beliefs locked up high in a tower because no good will come out of it for straying? Or maybe it's a tale for parents. You can protect your child all you want but at some point, they all grow up and locking them up in a tower all their life will only come to no good for when they have to finally enter the real world. Hmmm...maybe that's why this story never appealed to me much as a kid.

Anyway, I'm sure U2 was not talking about Rapunzel with that one line but that was what it made me think of. Plus, I want to see Tangled. Am curious as to how Disney spun the story around.

Recap of what my friend Larry is doing with his FB status this week here.

FB: Random iPod Facebook Status #4

2011-01-16T03:14:00.008-05:00

Larry's FB Status #4, originally uploaded by psychopooch.

Random iPod status #4 (and the truly eclectic selection on my iPod rears it's head again...)
Misty taste of moonshine, teardrop in my eye.

Taking a mental break from piecing my sketchbook together for the Sketchbook Project. SO glad they extended the deadline. Yay! Anyway, decided to practice sketching on my iPad more. This was done in Sketchbook Pro. Still not used to it but figured I won't get better unless I practice and Larry's FB status gave me a reason to try something new.

Recap of what my friend Larry is doing with his FB status this week here.

FB: Random iPod Facebook Status #3

2011-01-13T15:19:00.006-05:00

Larry's FB Status #3, originally uploaded by psychopooch.

Larry (and Vampire Weekend) gave me a very zen facebook status today.

Up one more flight, See the buddha on the second floor.

I'm not a religious person but I found comfort in both seeing the status and working on this sketch right now (thanks Larry!). Will definitely take this piece to completion but unfortunately I will not be able to touch this until next week since–

1. I must get back to my day job right now and
2. I need to complete my sketchbook for the Sketchbook Project Tour (2 days left!).

So stay tuned for another post on this. It'll be more than just a bunch of black lines on white. Think I'm going to make a print of the final for myself and frame it too. Hmmm, I wonder if prints of Zucco will sell...

In the meantime, I'll be waiting for Status #4 from Larry. For more on how Larry is coming up with his satus this week, go here.

FB: Random iPod Facebook Status #1 & #2

2011-01-12T13:59:00.010-05:00

Larry's FB Status #1, originally uploaded by psychopooch.

The above doodle is inspired by Larry's random iPod Facebook Status #1:
Forces pullin' from the center of the earth again. I can feel it.

My friend Larry has decided to have a bit of fun with his Facebook statuses this week. Here's the gist of it: I think this week I'm just going to press random on my iPod everyday, and whatever song comes up first will provide my status update that day.

Maybe some of these doodles will lead to more finished pieces :)

Also managed to do a quick doodle for status #2:
Fill my heart with song, And let me sing forever more.

Can't wait for status #3 and hope I don't get stuck.

P.S. I've got Sinatra stuck in my head now. Thanks Larry :P

FB: Deja Moo

2011-01-08T13:21:00.011-05:00

Deja Moo, originally uploaded by psychopooch.

Deja Moo-"The feeling you have heard this bull before"
Happy Hump Day!

That was my friend's FB status on Wednesday. Thought it was perfect for this week's Illustration Friday topic: Deja-vu.

FB: Good Year

2011-01-03T17:22:00.002-05:00

Good Year, originally uploaded by psychopooch.

Starting the new year with a happy post and my friend's facebook status made me smile.
Shower radio is back... it's gonna be a good year.

IF: Resolutions

2010-12-31T18:22:00.005-05:00

Illustration Friday: Resolutions, originally uploaded by psychopooch.

I don't really do New Year's resolutions (although I keep telling myself I need to get more personal projects done) but I still strive to get myself to a better place in my life compared to the year before. Here's to a whole New Year to getting me there and hope it will be an exciting new year for you as well.

Happy 2011 everyone!

IF: Winter

2010-12-28T23:08:00.012-05:00

Illustration Friday: Winter, originally uploaded by psychopooch.

If only Zucco enjoyed winter like this. He's a wimp about it right now.

Can't blame him though. We did just have a blizzard. That's what he looked like the other day when we took him out. I think he knew better. He pretty much made a beeline back into the building once he was done with his business.

FB: Sent By The Unibomber

2010-12-26T22:23:00.009-05:00

Sent By The Unibomber, originally uploaded by psychopooch.

Based on the following friend's facebook status:
Only my mom would send a Christmas package that looked like it was sent by the Unibomber.

Her status was accompanied by a photo of a pretty sad looking package. Hopefully it contained a fabulous gift inside. It may not have been packaged with care exactly but I'm sure it was sent with lots of love :)

P.S. For this sketch, I'm imagining there's a Christmas ornament in there.

IF: Mail

2010-12-22T11:08:00.007-05:00

Illustration Friday: Mail, originally uploaded by psychopooch.

I can't remember when was the last time I've actually mailed out holiday cards. The last few years, I've been sending out digital versions that's been personalized with an illustration of Zucco. I have to admit tho, I really do love getting snail mail from my friends with photos of their kids since they can be displayed :)

Anyway, the illo above is this year's e-greeting. And I want to wish everyone HAPPY HOLIDAYS!!!

FB: Lost 15 pounds!!!

2010-12-16T02:35:00.005-05:00

Lost 15 pounds!!!, originally uploaded by psychopooch.

Another illo of Zucco based on the following facebook status:
Woo hoo. Lost 15 pounds!!!

Pretty sure my friend didn't lose 15 lbs this way but somehow an image of a toilet popped in my head. I think it had to do with the fact that I had JUST walked Zucco when I read the status and he happened to poop quite a lot that day.

SBP 2011: Ice Cream Cone

2010-12-14T17:21:00.015-05:00

Sketchbook Project 2011: Ice Cream Cone, originally uploaded by psychopooch.

My first entry for the Sketchbook Project 2011 Tour!

I know, I don't have much time left as the deadline is about a month away. I've been procrastinating BIG TIME. The good news is, a bulk of the pages are done in some form as this will be filled with my drawings based on friends’ facebook statuses–just tweaked a little bit here and there or reimagined for this project. Although I’m known to take my time with personal projects, I think in this case, a big part of me just didn't want to face the reality of what prompted me to sign up for this in the first place, as this is dedicated to my psychopooch, Zucco.

About a year ago, I was told Zucco has congestive heart failure. There is no cure, only treatment to slow the progression of the disease. Since the diagnosis, I’ve been acquiring a large number of sketches of Zucco (more than what I’ve managed to post here). For those who have been following my blog, I’ve always tried to keep my drawings of Zucco silly and happy. It’s my way of holding onto good memories as it’s been a difficult year in dealing with my dog’s health. Even though there’s been more good days than bad, there are times where I’ve felt helpless and lost on what to do when I see his condition get worse. Those are the moments when I have to tell myself he's had a pretty good (at least I hope that is the case) and long life. And I guess in a way, these sketches have been my ice cream cone. They make the waiting for the inevitable a little better and they remind me of happy times with Zucco – even if some of the events are all in my head. But I swear, if you ever watch my dog sleep, you can’t help but get the feeling he’s lived through all these adventures in his dreams.

And here’s one more happy thought, Zucco turned 15 this past Thursday.

Happy Birthday Zucco :)

FB: I'm Such a Proud Mama ♥

2010-12-06T16:38:00.007-05:00

I'm Such a Proud Mama ♥, originally uploaded by psychopooch.

Based on the following friend's facebook status:

baby had a massive blowout today. pee and poop on the bed, on the floor, on the walls, on the ceiling... ??!? i'm such a proud mama. ♥

Not a parent myself but from what I can gather on facebook, babies are born with the full means of shooting poop and pee over great distances. The original illo that popped into my head didn't have the slingshot coming out of the crib. Decided to make the sketch a little more PG-rated. ;-) Anyway, my dog Zucco has had his share of projectile organic matter but I think the talent of my friend's baby puts him to shame. Zucco is skerred.

Update 12.16.10: This week's Illustration Friday topic is Phenomenon. For once I was having a mental block and have been racking my brain the entire week on what to do. Then it finally occurred to me that I could submit this illo. I've never witnessed the phenomenon described above firsthand. But every friend who has become a new parent lately have managed to share their experience in some form on facebook. I decided to immortalize this particular facebook status as a sketch since my friend neglected to take blackmail photos for when her daughter grows up. Maybe I'll revamp this illo at some point, switch out Zucco with 3 cats and give the print as a gift. As I was sketching this, I was wondering what my friend's 3 cats were thinking about the new addition to their family.

FB: Happy King Tut Day!

2010-11-05T14:13:00.007-04:00

Happy King Tut Day!, originally uploaded by psychopooch.

Based on Jonathan's Facebook Status: happy king tut day!

Also, submitting this for the Illustration Friday topic, afterwards. Thought the process of how this illo came about could work – My friends post a status on fb, I get inspired, I sketch afterwards. The sketch usually involves my dog Zucco. Still need to figure out how to make the relief more integrated into the stone texture but this will do for now. ^_^

I also happen to learn something new through facebook every day. Apparently yesterday (Nov. 4th) was King Tut Day celebrating the discovery of the tomb. Surprised the King Tut exhibit here in NYC didn't try to promote it more to get ticket sales. I actually went a few months ago. Definitely a bit of a tourist trap but still interesting to see. Just wish there was more for the price of the admission.

The highlight of the entire show for me was knowing something like this:

could inspire something like this afterwards:

I guess one can always use a King Tut holder of snot rags especially during the upcoming flu season.

IF: Spent

2010-11-03T13:03:00.006-04:00

Illustration Friday: Spent, originally uploaded by psychopooch.

Based on a lot of friends' fb photo uploads of what their kids did this past weekend, I can only guess this is how all the kids spent Sunday night after a full day of parties, trick-or-treating and sugar highs. This illo is also a continuation of a piece I did last week for Illustration Friday.

FB: I'm Never Cold

2010-11-02T11:37:00.009-04:00

I'm Never Cold, originally uploaded by psychopooch.

Having fun with another friend's facebook status. It made me think of an abominable snowman. Brrrrr... I'm freezing at my desk right now too. Where did autumn go?

Also submitting this for the Illustration Friday topic, Spent – I spent some time last night working on this facebook inspired piece ;) Wish I had more time for personal projects. Started a second sketch for the topic. Hope to finish and post before the week is up!

FB: Feeling a Little Sentimental

2010-10-27T13:54:00.009-04:00

Feeling a Little Sentimental, originally uploaded by psychopooch.

My friend is moving again – to another country. Her facebook status got me thinking about all of Zucco's (and my) moves. In the past 14 1/2 years of Zucco's life, he's moved from Buffalo, NY to NYC then finally to Chicago where he ended up with me. From there we soon moved to St. Louis and then finally back to NYC where we lived in Queens, then Brooklyn and now Manhattan. Not quite like moving to another country like my friend but I had the same feeling with each move – always a bit sentimental and sad for what I'm leaving behind and always a bit excited for what's next. I hope my friend is just as excited as I am for her now :)

Update 04.15.2011: Thought this was appropriate for this week's Illustration Friday topic, Journey.

IF: Racing

2010-10-25T13:30:00.031-04:00

Illustration Friday: Racing, originally uploaded by psychopooch.

An illo of Zucco and his new friend in their car costumes. Definitely got Halloween on my mind since it's less than a week away. This illo is partially facebook inspired as well. A friend had posted a photo of his Domokun Dice and commented how his youngest son thought it made their car go faster. That's why the little pig is ahead in this illo.

GOOOOOOOO DOMO-POWER!

On a side note, we're still trying to decide if we want to stick a costume on Zucco for Halloween. He DID give us the stink eye last year when we placed this on him. I think my dog hates me.

FB: Looking Forward to Some Pig Butt

2010-10-24T21:44:00.012-04:00

Looking Forward to Some Pig Butt, originally uploaded by psychopooch.

I was one of the friends mentioned in this FB status and the pig butt at Daisy May's BBQ was goooooood!

And um, no worries, Zucco didn't get to have this little piggie's butt. I've already imagined them being friends at some point. Working on another illo with the two of them and hope to post soon ;)

Update 10.25.10: Illo of Zucco and his new friend is up. :D

FB: Stupid Water Heater...

2010-10-21T16:51:00.005-04:00

Stupid Water Heater..., originally uploaded by psychopooch.

Used this FB status as an excuse to stick an I'm With Stupid T-Shirt on Zucco only because he would never get one like that in real life (although I can totally see my bf putting one on him because I'm the one who walks Zucco). Plus, I couldn't get this image out of my head. Saw the live episode of 30 Rock recently. :P

IF: Spooky

2010-10-20T15:11:00.013-04:00

Illustration Friday: Spooky, originally uploaded by psychopooch.

Sometimes what scares us is not as bad as it seems.

To view larger just click on image.

A while back I had posted a piece that featured the same fuzzy little lump in the illo above. My friend had commented it was way cuter than the original source of inspiration. I saw it as a challenge and this is my way of making him scarier.

FB: Will Not Eat Fish

2010-10-19T14:51:00.013-04:00

Will Not Eat Fish, originally uploaded by psychopooch.

For the Illustration Friday topic: Spooky. Uh...does a Franken-Fish Stick count? ;)

This FB inspired sketch definitely has a bit of Banksy influence as well. This work by Banksy popped into my head when I saw my friend's facebook status.

Yes, I happen to be a huge Banksy fan. But maybe I have his work on my mind because I watched Exit Through the Gift Shop recently. Btw, it's pretty damn hilarious and gets a highly recommended from me.

FB: Boats. Lunch. More boats. Drink.

2010-10-18T16:22:00.009-04:00

Boats. Lunch. More boats. Drink., originally uploaded by psychopooch.

Another FB status piece, although I think the boats my friend was referencing are way larger than this. Just using it as an excuse to go down memory lane with one of my favorite childhood books, Stuart Little. I'm imagining Zucco and Stuart Little could have been friends. Think I also have rodents on my mind thanks to another friend's facebook post.

And since we're on rodents, this just popped up on my FB feed from AwkwardFamilyPhotos.com. Happy thoughts... ^_^

FB: Birthday Party In My Pants :D

2010-10-14T00:34:00.003-04:00

Birthday Party In My Pants :D, originally uploaded by psychopooch.

This is what happens when my friends over share on Facebook. Another Zucco sketch based on a FB status.

FB: Yodelling Pickle

2010-10-11T13:15:00.009-04:00

Yodelling Pickle, originally uploaded by psychopooch.

Based on Nancy's FB photo post with the following caption (10/8):
There is a yodeling pickle on my desk

The actual photo was her cubicle stuffed with pink balloons and wallpapered with pink princess-y party decor. Didn't even notice the pickle if she hadn't posted that caption. Anyway, don't know what possessed me to google "Yodeling Pickle" but I did. And OMG, don't know why I've never seen this before. It's so stupid, it's awesome! If it wasn't for the fact that I have way too many toys, I'd get one. Although I do wish the actual pickle comes with its own outfit like in their cartoon. What a tease.

FB: French Keyboard

2010-10-08T15:25:00.004-04:00

French Keyboard, originally uploaded by psychopooch.

Tomoko's FB status (10/6):
Frustrating french keyboard :p

I'd be frustrated too if I asked for directions and all I got was an invisible wall. Damn those miming French keyboards. I blame Marcel Marceau for making me think of mimes.

FB: Man... The Things I Do

2010-10-08T11:16:00.004-04:00

Man... The Things I Do, originally uploaded by psychopooch.

Based on Wayne's FB Status (10/2):
Man.. the things I do for free Acura stuff... ;)

I'm a little off with posting my facebook inspired sketches. Trying to post them as soon as my friends have their status up but this one took a bit more time. I have a lot more thumbnails than this. Rob and I actually brainstormed a little bit on what Zucco would do for free stuff. Unfortunately he's not as talented as these sketches make him out to be. I wish he was THIS talented because I'd pimp him out for free Acura stuff. No wait, I'd pimp him out for cold hard cash. :D

FB: Rat Bar

2010-10-04T14:41:00.006-04:00

Rat Bar, originally uploaded by psychopooch.

Not based on a particular facebook status but it's definitely facebook inspired. My friend was the one who had submitted this photo to Eater. Anyway, the pic was posted on his facebook page as well and he happened to make this particular comment:

Do the rats drink out of thimbles and sit on tiny stools? That would be adorable.

He got me thinking about it over the weekend so I had to work on a sketch to get it out of my system. Just a basic outline. Maybe I'll finish this at some point. Already thinking about adding some embellishments, like lining the back of the bar with mini liquor bottles...

IF: Beneath

2010-10-01T14:05:00.005-04:00

Illustration Friday: Beneath, originally uploaded by psychopooch.

Treva's FB status:
is over-tired and under-slept.

Originally did a quick sketch on a post-it note based on a friend's facebook status. Was about to upload the hand drawing to share with her until I saw today's Illustration Friday topic. Thought it would work for beneath as well so took a wee bit of time during my lunch break to tweak the illo. Could use more work but it's at a good spot to share... now I must get back to my day job.

Honey Baby

2010-09-30T19:07:00.003-04:00

Honey Baby, originally uploaded by psychopooch.

A friend recently asked me to create some personalized note cards and stickers for her little girl. This particular design was loosely based on her birthday cake from this past summer. Unfortunately this didn't make the final cut. It's OK, the final selects suited her little girl more. But I thought this was still nice enough to post. Thinking about reworking the design and possibly making it a letterpress piece. Anybody out there have a printer/vendor they would recommend?

To see full piece and one additional sticker design, click here.

FB: Watching Steaks Sizzle & Vegetables Tumble

2010-09-30T15:46:00.004-04:00

Watching Steaks Sizzle & Vegetables Tumble, originally uploaded by psychopooch.

Agmac's FB status:
watching steaks sizzle and vegetables tumble at Ceco Studios on W 15th today

I see a sizzling steak romance and wrestling veggies played out on film. I've got issues... ^_^

FB: A Year Ago This Week

2010-09-29T00:12:00.008-04:00

A Year Ago This Week, originally uploaded by psychopooch.

Tony's FB Status:
a year ago this week: ate bacon, shot guns, karaoke, jamie lidell, fat hippo, broads

This crazy sounding status gave me an image of Zucco eating bacon, firing a rifle, and singing karaoke with broads singing back up. All this, while riding a fat hippo with Jamie Lidell in tow.

FB: Sharktopus!

2010-09-28T00:36:00.005-04:00

Sharktopus!, originally uploaded by psychopooch.

Aaron's FB status:
Sharktopus!

Yes, that's a real facebook status. Sharktopus aired on SyFy the evening it was posted. It just so happened that I caught a glimpse of it. But like a train wreck, it was horrific, but you just couldn't take your eyes off it. Was amazed someone else caught the same exact programming that night (it really was THAT BAD, haha)! Anyway, I never intended to do a sketch but I just couldn't take it out of my mind. It also didn't help that posts on sharks kept popping up for me when I was web surfing these past few days.

So... here it is, my version of Sharktopus. Something a little less menacing. Maybe I'll come up with a story about Zucco's adventures with this little guy at some point.

FB: Sucks Much Less

2010-09-24T21:20:00.006-04:00

Sucks Much Less, originally uploaded by psychopooch.

Marco's FB status:
waiting in line for the bus sucks. waiting in line for the bus with an ice cream cone sucks much less.

FB: Lost in the Sewers

2010-09-24T17:57:00.008-04:00

Lost in the Sewers, originally uploaded by psychopooch.

From Johnny's FB status:
i spent the summer lost in the sewers :(

IF: Old-Fashioned

2010-09-24T14:22:00.009-04:00

Illustration Friday: Old-Fashioned, originally uploaded by psychopooch.

Did this illustration of Zucco in an old-fashioned bath tub a while ago. Wasn't quite sure where I was going with it but it somehow evolved to incorporate the following friend's facebook status:

WTF is that?! found this in my bathtub this morning. first I thought it was a clump of hair. ick, i'm so disgusted.

The actual post included a photo of a house centipede. It's a pretty rare sight for us city folks. Needless to say, we were all pretty grossed out. Never did get around to posting this illo and thought this Illustration Friday topic was the perfect reason to.

FB: Happy Hump Day!

2010-09-22T16:01:00.007-04:00

Happy Hump Day!, originally uploaded by psychopooch.

Think I'm liking the use of FB statuses as inspiration.

Give a man a match, and he'll be warm for a minute, but set him on fire, and he'll be warm for the rest of his life. Happy Hump day!

This was the perfect excuse to stick a giant match in Zucco's hands. That's my psychopooch!

FB: Talk to the Hand

2010-09-22T13:43:00.006-04:00

Talk to the Hand, originally uploaded by psychopooch.

Another doodle based on a friend's facebook status.

Yeah yeah yeah! Talk to the hand!

Hoping that posting these will force me to turn them into more finished pieces at some point. Been acquiring a lot of sketches lately and been meaning to do more with them. We'll see if this helps.

FB: Now I'm Up Sneezing.

2010-09-22T13:05:00.008-04:00

Now I'm Up Sneezing., originally uploaded by psychopooch.

Another quick doodle (done on a post-it note) for my records based on the following friend's facebook status...

Allergies suck–even with Zyrtec. Now I'm up sneezing.

If you ever meet my dog, you'll notice he sneezes ALOT. Was told he has allergies. Sometimes he sneezes so hard his face hits the ground. It freaks me out because I keep thinking he's hurt himself. But he just struts off like nothing happened. Maybe he's immune to pain.

IF: Acrobat

2010-09-21T17:12:00.011-04:00

Illustration Friday: Acrobat, originally uploaded by psychopooch.

A while back my dog Zucco performed the acrobatic feat of jumping and projectile vomiting in mid-air. Don't know how he managed to do that but there was a good foot long streak of puke for me to clean up. Zucco even stared back and forth between me and the puke as if wondering why I was not as proud as he was of the awesomeness splattered across the floor.

Anyway, I happened to post the event on my facebook status. Quite a few comments joked about it being Zucco's super secret Street Fighter combo move. This illo is Zucco performing that same acrobatic feat, with some embellishments of course. Ha-puke-n!!! Sorry about the bad pun ^_^

Monday Artday: Medical

2010-09-20T12:01:00.012-04:00

Monday Artday: Medical, originally uploaded by psychopooch.

I originally sketched this out for the Illustration Friday topic, Artificial. The actual thumbnails had renderings of my version of an artificial heart superimposed on my dog's X-ray. They were very rough sketches at the time and never got around to doing more with it. Was going through a lot with Zucco. Right around then, his enlarged heart made a turn for the worse and he was going through heart failure. As part of his treatment, he ended up with kidney failure as well. I think my sketches was my way of coping with what he was going through. I felt helpless and wished I could just give him a new heart (and kidneys now). Since then, he's stabilized somewhat. Still not in the clear but behaviorally he's back to his crazy bounce off the wall psychopooch self. Hopefully that's a good sign.

Illo also posted at Monday Artday

Wings of Speed

2010-09-02T10:45:00.012-04:00

Wings of Speed, originally uploaded by psychopooch.

Finally got to finish another project! A friend of mine made a special request for his BFF. She's training for the NYC Marathon and it's his way of showing support. I hope she likes it as much I as I enjoyed making it. Just wish I had completed it sooner. I'm really back logged on projects. Sometimes I feel like I need a set of wings myself to speed me up. Hope to have more of these made...soon. I liked this so much I think I'm going to offer it in mylittlestore on Etsy. Maybe other folks have a marathoner they want to give this to as well ^_^

Oh, and like my dessert necklaces, this started out with a digital illustration. As you can see, the design was simplified along the way and two versions were sketched out. My friend left it up to me to decide whether or not to make it with wings. I'm glad I went with the winged version.

FB: Die Bugs Die!!! Mwahhahahaha.

2010-09-01T22:58:00.011-04:00

Die Bugs Die!!! Mwahhahahaha., originally uploaded by psychopooch.

OK, so this is what my sketches of Zucco REALLY look like before I bring it into Adobe Illustrator to do my thing. Did this off an iPad with Sketchbook Pro. Still getting used to drawing with my fingers. It's a quickie based on a friend's facebook status.

... is sitting here listening to my new mosquito zapper go "buzz!" every couple of seconds. Die bugs die!!! mwahhahahaha

Somehow an image of Zucco with a taser popped in my head. Posting this because I'm positive it will be a while before I come back to this sketch to get it to look more finished and by then, the moment will have passed for me to share.

Hmmm, now I wonder if I should add facebook statuses to my source of inspiration for Zucco illos.

IF: Immovable

2010-08-31T14:16:00.017-04:00

Illustration Friday: Immovable, originally uploaded by psychopooch.

Trying to find time to do more illos but work gets the better hold of me. So for now, just a simple sketch loosely inspired by this photograph of Zucco. To view larger, just click on images.

IF: (Zero) Atmosphere

2010-08-24T15:50:00.010-04:00

Illustration Friday: (Zero) Atmosphere, originally uploaded by psychopooch.

Inspired by this illustration post. Was rather impressed by what Craig Markus did with Sketchbook Pro on his iPad. I'm still struggling with the app myself since I'm not used to sketching with my fingers. So for now, I will continue with using Illustrator as my tool of choice until I get better at finger painting. But I have to admit, the iPad is turning into a fun illustration tool even if it's only for capturing quick sketches and ideas for me.

Monday Artday: 2 Colours

2010-08-23T18:04:00.004-04:00

Monday Artday: 2 Colours, originally uploaded by psychopooch.

Finally had time to post this. It all started out with me sketching while Zucco was having a very active REM sleep. Rob commented that Zucco must be dreaming about being a wrestler because he was kicking everywhere and barking in his sleep. We ended up with multiple sketches of him in his 2 Coloured Lucha Libre costume with different poses. Some had him attacking a squirrel. Another a pigeon. We even had him tag teaming with his wrestling partner, La Cucaracha. Never seem to have had time to turn them into more finished pieces. I'm surprised I even had time to getting this to a point for me to post. Enjoy!

Also post at Monday Artday.

IF: Double

2010-07-29T15:16:00.016-04:00

Illustration Friday: Double, originally uploaded by psychopooch.

Double, for Double Happiness or 囍.

It's a set of illustrations I did for a friend's wedding. I'm finally allowed to blog this since we were waiting on friends we have in common to get it in the mail first. I designed their wedding invite as a gift to the happy couple. Saves me the trouble of having to look for a gift. Plus, this was fun!

The invite was designed to be 2 sided. One had English with the couple in a westernized wedding outfit. The other was in Chinese with them in a traditional Chinese wedding outfit. The RSVP included the happy couple (well happy if you replied yes) as well. Click here for slightly larger image.

As part of the set, I also created directions to go along. Like the invite, it was 2 sided. One to the Church and the other to the reception after wards. This was definitely a nice break from the typical stuff I do at work.

Clarissa

2010-07-26T18:03:00.005-04:00

Clarissa, originally uploaded by psychopooch.

Not my design. Just something I did for a fellow designer friend (who happens to be a pretty awesome artist). :D

He did a sketch of a flower for his little girl. I took his sketch, reinterpreted it slightly and created this little set for her. One she can wear when she's older and the mini for (dare I say it?) her future American Girl Doll. Or she can wear the mini charm on a bracelet. I need to thank my friend be being so patient with me in getting this done. ^_^

Monday Artday: Flying Machine 2

2010-05-28T10:45:00.006-04:00

Monday Artday: Flying Machine 2, originally uploaded by psychopooch.

This is Zucco's gas propelled flyer. I originally did a few sketches for the Monday Artday topic: Flying Machine and ended up submitting this one for the challenge instead. There's also a gas powered machine in the works. Definitely trying to get myself motivated to getting more illos of Zucco done lately.

Larger image here

Monday Artday: Flying Machine

2010-05-13T16:35:00.005-04:00

Monday Artday: Flying Machine, originally uploaded by psychopooch.

Posted for the Monday Artday challenge: Flying Machine.

IF: Fearless

2010-05-10T13:58:00.004-04:00

Illustration Friday: Fearless, originally uploaded by psychopooch.

An image of Zucco as a fearless pirate popped into my head when I saw the topic this week. Maybe it's because he has a bum eye and we've always joked about him needing an eye patch. Arrrrrr!!!

Monday Artday: Favorite Food

2010-05-07T19:38:00.005-04:00

Monday Artday: Favorite Food, originally uploaded by psychopooch.

I originally did this for the Illustration Friday topic: Clumsy, but never got around to posting. I'm pretty much a klutz in the kitchen.

Thought it would work for the Monday Artday topic: Favorite Food. Zucco's favorite is anything that falls on the floor when I'm in the kitchen cooking...actually, his favorite is pretty much everything including the trash. But he's been known to hover while I'm in the kitchen.

Also posted at MondayArtday.com

IF: Cocoon

2010-05-04T15:17:00.007-04:00

Illustration Friday: Cocoon, originally uploaded by psychopooch.

I want to be like that butterfly now. I think I'm up for a change.

IF: Ahead

2010-05-03T14:06:00.012-04:00

Illustration Friday: Ahead, originally uploaded by psychopooch.

Update 10.8.10: An old post that I never got to submit for Illustration Friday in the past. Thought this would work for this week's topic, Transportation. Hope you like :)

I missed the deadline for the Illustration Friday Topic: Ahead but decided to post anyway.

I originally wanted to illustrate Zucco in a sports car speeding ahead. If Cesar Milan is right about dogs feeding off their owners' energy, then at the time of the topic post, the sports car would have suited Zucco just fine. It's been a bit crazy at work and I feel like I've been moving at 100 mph with no end in sight. As the week progressed, my energy has been drained and somehow the illo evolved into a scooter.

But as of now, I think this:

would be a more accurate representation of how I'm feeling. So much to do, so little done. It's like I've been moving at a snail's pace in completing my personal projects. I also realized it's been 4 months since my last Illustration Friday post. Where does the time go?

Monday Artday: Friendship

2010-04-28T03:22:00.005-04:00

Monday Artday: Friendship, originally uploaded by psychopooch.

One of the joys of living in a cheap apartment in New York is all the little friends it can come with. This was especially true of the old apartment I had in Brooklyn. On occasion, my dog Zucco would make a few friends during the day. I don't know what's worse, coming home to him playing with a giant waterbug or evidence he had a bit of a protein snack. I'm so glad my current place doesn't have little friends for Zucco.

Also posted at Monday Artday.

Monday Artday: Monkey

2010-03-24T16:43:00.006-04:00

Monday Artday: Monkey, originally uploaded by psychopooch.

Created for Monday Artday.

When I saw the topic, the first thing that popped into my mind was See No Evil, Speak no Evil, Hear No Evil. Rather than doing the typical illo of Monkeys sitting in a row, I decided to have them in a little jungle scene. This was revamped from a monkey illustration I did for a friend's baby announcement card a while ago.

The next topic is AWAKE. Hopefully I'll have time to work on it. I seem to get distracted easily from personal projects.

Bling Bling

2010-01-06T05:33:00.005-05:00

Bling Bling, originally uploaded by psychopooch.

No Christmas present to myself this year. Instead, I made something for my boyfriend's 4 and 5 year old nieces.

One of them asked for a "diamond" ring this Christmas so I whipped this up for her and her cousin. We think they would have been perfectly happy with Ring Pops but figured this was a better alternative. Plus, I happened to have the beads lying around and never quite got around to using them. I hope they like it. The bead spins and I made the band expandable so they can still wear as they get bigger. I kinda wish I had an extra bead so I can make one for myself. ^_^

Regift

2010-01-06T04:26:00.013-05:00

Regift, originally uploaded by psychopooch.

Ever since my friend Anna and her husband moved to Korea, they've been traveling all around Asia (Anna's blog). On one of their trips to Saipan, she brought back some beach glass and bits and pieces of coral for me. She definitely knows my weakness for collecting beach stuff.

For Anna's birthday I decided to make a little something for her with some of the beach glass she's given me. Had fun making this necklace since it's a little different from stuff I normally do. It's also gotten me motivated to work on some more projects. Hopefully new stuff will be posted soon!

Happy 2010!

2010-01-01T04:09:00.003-05:00

Happy 2010!, originally uploaded by psychopooch.

Here's to a new decade! Happy New Year Folks!

IF: Undone

2009-12-21T11:32:00.003-05:00

Illustration Friday: Undone, originally uploaded by psychopooch.

The fresh blanket of snow didn't last long. It was swiftly undone by Zucco and Snow Angels.

Happy Holidays!

We're Going Bananas...

2009-07-16T01:04:00.007-04:00

We're Going Bananas..., originally uploaded by psychopooch.

Had some fun recently designing/illustrating a baby announcement card for friends. The happy parents had a few ideas in mind of course. We finally narrowed it down to this one. The finished piece was printed on 300 gsm archival rag paper with pigment inks, hand trimmed and paired with a chocolate brown envelope.

IF: Shaky

2009-07-07T15:45:00.001-04:00

Illustration Friday: Shaky, originally uploaded by psychopooch.

Shaky Shaky – that's what Zucco does with his butt when he wants to play. I guess it's because he doesn't have much of a tail to wag.

Family

2009-06-28T20:49:00.002-04:00

Family, originally uploaded by psychopooch.

Yes, more baby stuff. This was for another friend's second baby so I did an illustration of the family. I did cheat a little by revamping an older piece. Hehe. So much to do, so little time...

IF: Drifting

2009-06-21T03:16:00.002-04:00

Illustration Friday: Drifting, originally uploaded by psychopooch.

Lately I've been feeling a bit lost out at sea looking for solid ground to land on–anxious about not knowing where I'll be next.

But sometimes, you just have to take a breather, drift along and enjoy the ride.

Bigger image here.

IF: Craving

2009-06-07T01:44:00.004-04:00

Illustration Friday: Craving, originally uploaded by psychopooch.

It seems like ALOT of my friends have been knocked up lately. Was able to spend a little time to work on some kids birthday cards and stuff for baby showers. This one was something I made for a friend's second baby. It seemed appropriate for this week's Illustration Friday topic. Now off to working on some more baby cards.

He's 2 Already?

2009-06-07T01:43:00.007-04:00

He's 2 Already?, originally uploaded by psychopooch.

Created this for a friend's 2 year old son's birthday. It was to go with the train build-a-bloc set we got him. Can't believe how big he's getting. Where does the time go?

Little Bundle

2009-06-07T01:43:00.001-04:00

Little Bundle, originally uploaded by psychopooch.

This is definitely a year of babies for me since alot of my friends apparently got busy with making little me's. Will be cranking out a bunch of baby cards for gifts and maybe some baby announcement cards along the way :)

IF: Breezy

2009-03-02T11:48:00.004-05:00

Illustration Friday: Breezy, originally uploaded by psychopooch.

My dog Zucco is a trouble maker. He does a lot of things that can be categorized as "it sounded good at the time" such as jumping off a roof when he was a puppy. He must have thought it was a good idea to clear the protective fence not realizing he was a few stories up from the ground. THANKFULLY he was OK and walked away with a few scrapes and a bruised ego. Yes, he's a bit of a psychopooch.

Anyway, this illo could be another one of those moments. I imagine Zucco thinks it would be fun to enjoy the breeze up where the kites are. But I get the feeling it's a lot more windy and not quite as calm as it seems.

Happy New Year!

2009-01-25T21:22:00.003-05:00

Happy New Year!, originally uploaded by psychopooch.

To those celebrating Chinese New Year, Xin Nian Kuai Le! Gong Xi Fa Cai!

IF: Climbing

2009-01-23T18:12:00.006-05:00

Illustration Friday: Climb, originally uploaded by psychopooch.

Sometimes I imagine this is what my dog Zucco does when I'm not at home. I did find an empty can of liver treats on the floor once even though I had placed it up on a shelf.

IF: Contained

2009-01-09T17:25:00.003-05:00

Illustration Friday: Contained, originally uploaded by psychopooch.

Before I took Zucco in, I had a pet cockatiel. They never did get to meet. *sigh*

Merry Christmas to Me

2009-01-02T08:10:00.009-05:00

Merry Christmas to Me, originally uploaded by psychopooch.

A Christmas gift for myself :D

I finally got around to finishing this! The main part of the ring is cast from a shell I had gotten off the beach on a trip to the Dominican Republic 5 years ago (yes, I'm a bit of a procrastinator). The center stones are rough diamonds set with 18kt gold wire. Still playing around with variations on the design but loving it so far. Now I just need to finish up some additional new projects with the other shells I picked up from the same trip. I need to get focused and have more design projects completed this year!

Happy 2009!

2008-12-31T07:18:00.001-05:00

Happy 2009!, originally uploaded by psychopooch.

Just want to wish everyone a Happy & Prosperous New Year. Party safe! ;)

Happy Holidays!

2008-12-23T23:03:00.001-05:00

Happy Holidays!, originally uploaded by psychopooch.

IF: Strings

2008-10-10T18:00:00.002-04:00

Illustration Friday: Strings, originally uploaded by psychopooch.

Sometimes I get the feeling my dog Zucco wishes he could fly.

Little Boys

2008-10-08T00:47:00.002-04:00

Little Boys, originally uploaded by psychopooch.

Snips and snails, and puppy-dogs' tails,
That's what little boys are made of.

Had a little extra time. This was created as a companion to this Illustration Friday piece. I know, licking a snail is a little unappetizing. But hey, kids can be a little gross ;)

IF: Sugary

2008-10-07T18:54:00.003-04:00

Illustration Friday: Sugary, originally uploaded by psychopooch.

Sugar and spice, and everything nice,
That's what little girls are made of.

Update: Had a little extra time so I created a companion piece to this illo.

IF: Packed

2008-10-01T14:42:00.002-04:00

Illustration Friday: Packed, originally uploaded by psychopooch.

Has it been almost 3 months since my last illo? Where does the time go? :P

IF: Sour

2008-07-09T16:06:00.001-04:00

Illustration Friday, originally uploaded by psychopooch.

This was the first image that popped into my head when I saw the topic this week.

IF: Wide

2008-05-17T01:12:00.009-04:00

Illustration Friday: Wide, originally uploaded by psychopooch.

I'm lost on a wide wide sea...
I couldn't seem to get the refrain from When in Rome's Wide Wide Sea out of my head when I saw the topic for this week.