R.I.P. Mike Wieringo

One of the most talented artists in the comics industry today has passed away this Sunday at the early age of 44. Not only was Mr. Wieringo a very talented artist he was also a big influence to me with his clean and strong style. He was also probably one of the most approachable and kindest guys out there who I've only corresponded through the net. Below is the last sketch he has posted on his frequently updated blog.


This is surely a sad day.

For more info on this tragedy check out this link.

NO WATER!

Man, I'm having a bad time these days. The weather is extremely hot. The electricity fluctuates time to time which destroys my internet connection and on top of all that there's NO WATER!

There's been a water shortage in the city for a while and due to horrible management of the municipality and politicians. And this is supposed to be the Capitol city. This could have all been avoided if they took action some years ago when all this was predicted! I'm so pissed I can't begin to describe it.

Sorry about the ranting. Just felt I'd let it out a little.

At least I can draw! :D

Dynamo 5 on G4 & Wizard

Blair Butler from G4TV sure likes Dynamo 5 a lot. So much so that Dynamo 5 is the first thing she mentions while interviewing Erik Larsen! Dynamo 5 has been mentioned a few times during the channel's San Diego Comic-Con 2007 live coverage. Here's a link where you can watch the features online;

G4TV Image Comics Feature

Dynamo 5 has also been featured in the latest issue (#191) of Wizard - The Comics Magazine. Jim Gibbons has featured Dynamo 5 as the headliner in the Secret Stash section and has written a detailed article on the book with lots of nice things to say. The issue came out earlier this week so go out there and grab it.

Both of these have been great exposure for Dynamo 5. So thanks go out to all involved for the love and support.

Hasan İzettin Dynamo 5!

During my visit to Trabzon we noticed a bust of a famous historical figure of the city; Hasan İzettin Dinamo. This was a big surprise to me. You must agree, Dinamo is not an ordinary surname. Since this was a fun coincidence I thought I'd share it with you here.

Here's the English info on the plaque below the bust (with a bit of correction) which also shed some light to my ignorance aswell;

HASAN IZETTIN DINAMO
1909-1989

He was born in Akcaabat district of Trabzon. He is the writer of the book "Holy Rebellion" in which the National Struggle years were illustrated in detailed context. With his "Holy Peace" book, he was awarded with "Orhan Kemal Novel Prize". He also has a number of books and poems on his immigration years.

Trabzon

Hey all,

Last week I traveled 12 hours from Ankara to Trabzon, the hometown of my wife. This was the first time ever that I've been there and it was a lot of fun. In the limited time that I had I visited quite a number of places that are of importance around the city. I've seen museums, historical buildings, surrounding spots and a whole lot of natural beauty. I've also had the chance to meet lot of my wife's relatives and family friends. We've also been to the village and surrounding area of my wife's parents. I can't begin to describe how beautiful the landscape is. Meanwhile I've kept busy and managed to pencil 5 Dynamo 5 pages too.

The people were a bit on the conservative side but very warm and hospitable nonetheless. They certainly love their culture, music and food. The accent they use is also very unique and sometimes even a bit hilarious to listen to. I've picked up a few things myself and my speech started to transform.

All this while I've ate quite a bit of food and I have to admit that the Black Sea cuisine is very compatible with my taste. Also I don't think I've had this much tea in a long time (up to 7-8 cups a day).

I've had quite a lot of fun and this was a very memorable and interesting trip. I hope to visit again sometime and do the things I missed out on this time around and also repeat quiet a bit of what I have done. Here are some photos we took on our trip.

Cheers!