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Character example for an upcoming book project I'm working on.

What is a Mutant Zombie?

A Mutant Zombie is a fictional creature commonly found in various forms of popular culture, particularly in the horror and science fiction genres. The concept typically involves a variation of the traditional zombie, characterized by mutations that go beyond the standard portrayal of reanimated corpses. These mutations often result from exposure to radiation, experimental chemicals, or other unnatural phenomena, enhancing the zombies' physical attributes and abilities.

Unlike conventional zombies that are depicted as slow-moving and lacking cognitive function, Mutant Zombies may possess increased strength, agility, and sometimes even intelligence. The mutations can manifest in various ways, such as additional limbs, distorted features, or heightened senses, making them more formidable and challenging adversaries for protagonists in stories.

The idea of Mutant Zombies has been popularized in video games, movies, and literature, allowing creators to explore new and imaginative variations of the classic zombie archetype. This creative twist adds an extra layer of danger and unpredictability to the zombie narrative, providing storytellers with opportunities to explore themes of scientific experimentation gone awry, the consequences of environmental disasters, or the horrors of a world ravaged by both the undead and the consequences of human tampering with nature. Mutant Zombies, therefore, serve as a compelling and versatile element in the broader spectrum of zombie fiction.

I tried some pumpkin carving of Devilman (from Go Nagai's manga). Happy Halloween ^_^

What is Devil Man?

Go Nagai's "Devilman" is a ground-breaking and influential manga series that first emerged in the early 1970s. Created by Japanese manga artist and writer Go Nagai, the series combines elements of horror, supernatural, and action genres, and it has left a lasting impact on the anime and manga landscape.

The story follows Akira Fudo, a timid and compassionate high school student who becomes entwined with demonic forces after his friend, Ryo Asuka, uncovers an ancient secret. Ryo's revelation leads to a demonic invasion, and Akira transforms into the powerful and demonic entity known as Devilman. Unlike traditional demonic entities, Devilman retains his human heart and soul, using his newfound powers to combat the demonic threat.

"Devilman" is known for its mature themes, graphic violence, and exploration of the blurred lines between good and evil. It delves into complex topics such as existentialism, the nature of humanity, and the consequences of unchecked power. Nagai's narrative challenges conventional storytelling norms, offering a dark and thought-provoking experience that captivates readers.

The success of "Devilman" extended beyond the manga, spawning numerous adaptations, including anime series, OVAs (Original Video Animations), and live-action films. The series has inspired subsequent generations of creators and has become a cultural touchstone, influencing the development of the horror and dark fantasy genres in Japanese popular culture.

"Devilman" remains a classic in manga history, recognized for its innovation, mature storytelling, and the enduring impact it has had on the broader landscape of anime and manga.

Character example for an upcoming book project I'm working on.

What is a Military Soldier?

A military soldier is an integral part of a nation's armed forces, trained and equipped to defend and safeguard the interests of their country. These individuals undergo extensive training, both physically and mentally, to prepare for a variety of tasks and missions. The role of a military soldier encompasses a wide range of responsibilities, including combat operations, peacekeeping missions, disaster relief efforts, and supporting national security initiatives.

Soldiers operate within a hierarchical structure, following a chain of command led by officers. They are often organized into units with specific roles, such as infantry, artillery, or specialized support units. The duties of a soldier can involve everything from patrolling and reconnaissance to engaging in active combat, depending on the nature of the mission and the branch of the military.

Discipline, teamwork, and adaptability are crucial attributes for military soldiers. They are trained to work cohesively under various conditions and to follow orders to maintain unit cohesion and mission success. Soldiers may be called upon to serve in challenging and high-stress environments, requiring resilience and commitment to their duty.

The commitment of military soldiers goes beyond the physical aspects of combat; they are bound by a code of ethics and are expected to uphold international laws and conventions during armed conflicts. The dedication of soldiers plays a vital role in ensuring the safety, security, and sovereignty of their nation.

Character example for an upcoming book project I'm working on.

What is a Mecha Pilot?

A mecha pilot is an individual trained to operate and control large humanoid robots known as "mecha." The term "mecha" is derived from the word "mechanical," and these machines are a staple of science fiction, particularly in anime, manga, and other related genres. Mecha pilots, often portrayed as skilled and heroic individuals, play a central role in piloting these colossal machines during various missions and battles.

The mecha themselves are versatile robots equipped with advanced weaponry, often used for both military and civilian purposes in their respective fictional universes. Mecha pilots are tasked with navigating these machines, engaging in combat, and utilizing the mecha's capabilities to accomplish specific objectives. The complexity of mecha operations requires extensive training in piloting skills, tactical decision-making, and understanding the technological intricacies of the mecha they operate.

Mecha pilot characters are featured prominently in popular works like "Gundam," "Neon Genesis Evangelion," and "Code Geass." Their stories often explore themes of war, identity, and the symbiotic relationship between human pilots and their robotic counterparts. The mecha pilot archetype has become iconic in geek culture, symbolizing bravery, heroism, and the fusion of cutting-edge technology with human skill and determination.

Character example for an upcoming book project I'm working on.

What is a manga warrior girl?

A warrior manga girl is a dynamic and often central female character featured in manga, the Japanese style of comic books or graphic novels. These characters are known for their formidable combat skills, bravery, and often possess unique abilities or wield powerful weapons. The term encompasses a broad range of personalities, backgrounds, and storylines, making it a diverse and inclusive category within the manga genre.

Warrior manga girls are not limited to a specific setting; they can exist in historical, fantasy, science fiction, or contemporary worlds. They might be skilled swordswomen, martial artists, archers, or have access to magical powers or advanced technology. The narratives often revolve around their journeys, exploring themes of self-discovery, overcoming challenges, and participating in epic battles or quests.

These characters challenge traditional gender norms, showcasing strength, resilience, and leadership qualities. Iconic examples include characters like Sailor Moon, who combines her duties as a magical warrior with themes of friendship and love, and Nausicaä from "Nausicaä of the Valley of the Wind," who is a compassionate environmentalist and skilled pilot in a post-apocalyptic world.

Some argue that the representation of warrior manga girls reflects evolving societal attitudes towards gender roles, emphasizing empowerment and providing readers with diverse and compelling female characters who contribute significantly to the world of manga.

For those that don't know, I'm currently working on a Photoshop Tutorial book relating to manga and character art. 85 pages down and another 75 to get done by the end of October! It's coming along but feel like I need until the end of the year at least to complete >_<

Samurai sketch to be used in an upcoming book project I’m working on.

I've been privately blogging for years and occasionally I'll blog to the public via my personal site or social media sites. I wanted to create a Blog network through the same UI instead of having to log into OM, WordPress and Blogger separately. And also wanted to have a primary master Blog which re-posts to social media sites to save potentially posting the same info on multiple platforms to different audiences.

I'm getting there!

I've set up WordPress Multi-site, installed a few plugins which should do the trick and added some basic customization to my private and public blogs. Now I am trying to figure out what to post and to where- should I keep things fairly general, allow more personal posts to be shared, or just share art related things? And should I re-post everything on this master blog to my Facebook, Twitter and Tumbr?

I've never got on 100% with social media. Partly because I don't have the time to update them all, partly because I don't like the idea of making all my thoughts or interactions public. Now that so many people communicate this way and since I have a handful of friends and followers who use these sites, I want them to know what's going on in my world. I also want an audience- people interested in checking out what I have to share, say and show.

I'm also wondering if I should create a separate domain for the master blog- is it worth it right now? Can I easily migrate this to a new domain or server location at a later date if needs be? - I need to figure that out. Rather than this be part of Organic Metal, I like the idea of having a new, separate, simple site just for the Blog with a few extra add on pages to house permanent info and picture gallery. Then again, I also like the idea of creating a new professional portfolio site and not sure if a personal blog would belong on it?

Archer girl sketch to be used in an upcoming book project I’m working on.

She’s an original character I drew based on the EMIEW Bot.

Finished coloring Hitachi Girl in a anime cel style.

What is EMIEW?

Hitachi's EMIEW (Excellent Mobility and Interactive Existence as Workmate) is a humanoid robot designed to interact with people in public spaces and assist with various tasks. Developed by Hitachi, Ltd., EMIEW is known for its compact size, agility, and ability to navigate dynamic environments.

EMIEW, standing at around 80 centimetres tall, features a distinctive design with two wheels for mobility and a compact body that allows it to move smoothly through crowded areas. It employs advanced sensor technologies, including cameras and ultrasonic sensors, to perceive its surroundings and navigate autonomously. This makes it well-suited for applications in environments where humans are present, such as shopping malls, airports, and offices.

One of EMIEW's key functionalities is its ability to communicate with people using natural language processing and speech recognition technologies. It can understand spoken queries and respond appropriately, making it effective in customer service or information desk roles. Additionally, EMIEW can be equipped with an arm to perform tasks such as carrying objects or delivering items.

Hitachi has positioned EMIEW as a part of its vision for a "Human symbiotic robot." The goal is to create robots that can coexist and collaborate with humans, enhancing efficiency and convenience in various settings.