Hey guys, I recently got started on doing the extension alters and was wondering what you guys thought of a couple of my cards I have done
Looking good, you have very good color matching and the texture blending is superb, especially in the bricks on the Rites.
Couple things to watch out for, make sure when using black it doesn't just sink into a flat black. Most 'black' used in pieces like that are actually very dark browns, blues and greens, it can take quite a while to fuss around with and get close, but it will stop the boarders from seeming so sink back so heavily from the rest of the art.
Also, make sure to keep the lines around the text box crisp, does wonders for the alter and makes the illusion all the more complete.
Overall excellent work and very successful extensions!
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Very nice work, the image and your alter flow very well together, although on the angel of serenity adding a little bit of a light yellow tint to her left wing and the buildings would better match the original color.
Wow, looks like I missed some drama over the past couple of days... I can understand the initial backlash; TigerStripedDog came off as a bit pompous initially, and the thought of someone tearing into a painting you've worked on for days is a terrifying prospect. I think he meant well, though. The plus side of all this is that there's more feedback on the alters people are posting, and it's being done in a kind and constructive way.
So, for last week as a gift to some regulars at my shop, I altered some promo frost Titans with some Christmas trees and Santa hats.
After that, I seem to have had a few paints left over, so I decided to give my first try at extensions/altering. I did a Kamahl first, since I wanted to do a different project with him (will post it later, for now there's a surprise factor for someone who frequents these forums), followed by a Tibor and Lumia, for my EDH deck.
I don't seem to have the hand at color matching yet. I messed it up badly enough on Khamal, I ended up repainting the entire background. T&L I think I did a bit better though.
Not gonna be back in the office till wed to use the scanner, so photos for now:
Holy moly. Having not been here in a while...I literally died reading the posts of that critic guy. My bf and I, both alter artists, were literally rolling around laughing...
He was trolling us...
That was literally unbelievable.
Here's a hint: most people don't make art so others will like it. They do it because it is fulfilling, and it makes them happy.
Posts merged. Also, please learn how to correctly use the word "literally." - B
Love the helm and the Teysa especially, but as usual, every one of your alters is beautiful, Sandreline. Seeing your art is inspiring, and one of the reasons I started altering. Great work
@Aeontropy: That is truly impressive. Awesome collection. On a side note, talk about a fun general and a fun deck to play, both visually and from a purely EDH standpoint. I think my favorite piece that you showed was your Boreal Shelf. The colors/contrast really make the piece "pop" out. Very Van Gogh-esque. COOL.
@fallet (Land extensions): Very well done. I wish the pictures were a little more straight on, sometimes that can give us a better idea on the detail. The backdrop work on the Swamp is really well done, the subtle wash out of the color does a great job of forcing the perspective, and drawing the eye naturally. I don't recall how much of this was part of the card to begin with, but your extension appears to be nearly indistinguishable.
@pochy (3rd/4th Delver): LOVE the wolves! I am curious, is there a reference here that I don't get? The subject is interesting for a delver, this isn't a critique so much as a curious question.
@Demonium (Rite of Replication): Once again, your work is fantastic. That you have bound the alter to PoT is really cool. At first I almost missed the subtle reflections behind her, that interpretation on the card is just so cool. I could see this being a signature series, like Claar's architect blueprints or Poxy's Duals.
@jenyang80272010 (Superman/Cap): Very fun work. Superman is one of my favorite characters and has instant recognition. Your work with the anatomy and his muscles is spot on. Its tough for me to tell without seeing the card in person whether some of the texture work around the card is intentional and stylistic or needs to be cleaned up. I would love to get ahold of these cards and look at them up close. Of the two, I think Supes has the better detail, structure, and works with Jace's face, but both are a ton of fun. I know I have seen this done before (with Captain, not Supe) but it might have been THIS work that I saw. Have you posted this anywhere else?
@wtwlf123: The virulence and vitriol of your response speaks of a deep anger that seems a mite unreasonable when directed towards someone who 1) You don't know, 2) Is trying to help people, and 3) Didn't actually direct any thoughts/concerns/questions/comments at you. Several (4+ as of this post) have now approached me in PM's asking for my opinions, valuations, and general perceptions on alterations. Including artists I have critiqued. The proof is in the pudding my friend. I posted my "qualifications" (in quotes because seriously, one can't be qualified for something like this, it isn't a field, there are no regulations or standards ) and I have already received more interest than with my previous feedback. Feel free to PM me if you want to continue the conversation. I recommend being more civil than your previous message or I'll just delete it.
@Zanny77: Hey thanks, I think? Misguided seems a little harsh, but I still appreciate it. Glad you have friends of the quality to be harsh. A lot of friends are afraid to do that. You're a lucky guy/gal. I look forward to seeing your alters soon!
@seesic (Desolation Angel): Wow, dark alter! Really fits subject well. I love the interplay on the anatomy. As someone who has had instruction in anatomy I can appreciate the detail around the neck/deltoids/traps/and upper arm. The muscle play is fantastic. Your text work is also better than some of your previous alters, which is always a plus.
@EvilNerdINC (Angels): In the middle Resto the feathers are AWESOME. That you made use of the natural card border to shade out the tips of feathers is really clever. You took what is a usually a challenging part of card alteration and turned it to your benefit. Again, your lines around the box could use some trimming, and the textures above the box still don't match the sky beneath, but this is a common difficulty, especially when you aren't able to fade to black. That you took this piece on at all is impressive. Well done!
@closetvictorian (Poison Ivy): First of all, thanks for the support! But on to the alter: First of all, cool subject. Comic alters have wide appeal, and your use of this particular villain on this particular card is pretty clever. Definitely made me smile. I am probably not telling you anything you didn't already think of yourself, but the bulk of the improvements can be made in improving realism. And this is hard. Really hard. Your shapes/proportions are well done, and I really like the leaf work. It really boils down to your textures on the body and with her hair. Sharpening these up, and adding some further detail can carry you far. Love the "come hither" look. Classic for P.I.!
@6jerfz: Lol, tell me about it. But have no fear Jerfz, I have had tons of interest by email and through PM. I was surprised really. Behind closed doors people have been really nice, and appreciative. I don't let the trolls get me down
@bobthefunny: You asked for critiques so here they come But first a compliment: you've done really well carrying lines through text, and onto the extensions. Alterers discover pretty quickly that this is tougher than it looks. Potential improvements abound however. A first is that your paint appears thick, and obvious on the card. Most people prefer a more seamless transition. It looks as if you could "feel" the difference between the natural art and the alter. As well, your color matching isn't spot on, another reason the border of the extension can be seen. If you were going for a stylistic change, that was accomplished but from what I have seen from buyers/sellers/traders is that a consistent style from natural card art to extension is preferred over a shift. There have been a few exceptions, but usually the rule stands. If you don't feel up to that, completely redesigning the art in your own style works well too. Some alterers ONLY do that, and do it well. Its also why lands make great subjects for new alterers, because a whole-scene alter can be easier than a form.
@Cardcandy (Force, etc): First, as a general response to your patronizing (matronizing?) response. Keep in mind that there are times when artists are not the ones you want critiquing or appraising works. For one, most artists I know overvalue or undervalue their work. The best determinant of a work's value is the free market. And people within the free market have (and still are) asking for me to appraise. I fully admitted that I don't know WHY they asked me, and I gave a disclaimer to that regard. But at this point its something they give me VALUE for ($5 store credit per appraisal) at some places and trade value (varying amounts) with individuals. If I can make value from appraising, there MUST be value in what I do. You can laugh all you want, doesn't change those facts
That said, your works: Force of Will was really interesting. Your choices of where/when/how you extended were interesting to me. I also love the use of the black outline around the flames, it stylistic, and helps with contrast. Very well done. Your Tormenta wasn't nearly of the same quality. The texture of the moon (?) was completely off above the lines, and was streaky. As a collector, a clear defect like that turns me away almost immediately because it draws the eye away from the good parts of the piece, mainly the contralateral extensions. The Resto looks great, with awesome work on the sky, and great feathering. Would look great in an EDH deck.
Thats all for now. Still taking emails/PM's over the holidays so keep them coming, responses might be a little slow
Tiger
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Yo Dawg, I heard you like Flashack, so we put Flashback on a Snapcaster so you can Flashback while you Snapcast...!
To me, it is like hunting with a bow and arrow, or hunting with a bazooka. One takes more skill, precision and understanding, the other is a bazooka.
Currently playing: EDH
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Not a bad idea Demonium. If I had the time I would, and I might have that time after the holidays. Work and a new kiddo keep me pretty busy though. Still, like I said earlier the response has actually been overwhelmingly positive. Just today I have received several PM's and Emails from alterers and readers with positive remarks, or questions on appraisal. Have no fear, I don't mind the trolls
Looking forward to your next alters!
Tiger
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():
Rollback Post to RevisionRollBack
Yo Dawg, I heard you like Flashack, so we put Flashback on a Snapcaster so you can Flashback while you Snapcast...!
To me, it is like hunting with a bow and arrow, or hunting with a bazooka. One takes more skill, precision and understanding, the other is a bazooka.
Currently playing: EDH
GWBGhave, Guru of BeatdownsGWB BWRKaalia of the FacesmashBWR
@wtwlf123: The virulence and vitriol of your response speaks of a deep anger that seems a mite unreasonable when directed towards someone who 1) You don't know, 2) Is trying to help people, and 3) Didn't actually direct any thoughts/concerns/questions/comments at you. Several (4+ as of this post) have now approached me in PM's asking for my opinions, valuations, and general perceptions on alterations. Including artists I have critiqued. The proof is in the pudding my friend. I posted my "qualifications" (in quotes because seriously, one can't be qualified for something like this, it isn't a field, there are no regulations or standards ) and I have already received more interest than with my previous feedback. Feel free to PM me if you want to continue the conversation. I recommend being more civil than your previous message or I'll just delete it.
I can only think of a few reasons why you would walk in here and decide to announce and begin to critique alters: you have a business for critiquing alters, in which case you are slyly advertising. Or you are one of those pompous art critics that have to voice what they think about a piece of art sitting right in front of them to feel good about themselves because they are "a popular people's choice". Or you're a troll. In either cases you are accomplishing what you set out to do. Bravo!
If I had to put money on it, I would go with choice two because you continually announce things about your personal/private life, such as the emails you keep revealing.
On behalf of people looking for critiques on their work, I think that if no one praises your work for being good you are doing it wrong. Not be harsh, but it's a cold reality and shouldn't let you get down. I agree that people need to actually comment on alters that don't look good to help aspiring artists. No "official" or "unofficial" critic needed for this. That is a community's job. And we are slacking.
I can only think of a few reasons why you would walk in here and decide to announce and begin to critique alters: you have a business for critiquing alters, in which case you are slyly advertising. Or you are one of those pompous art critics that have to voice what they think about a piece of art sitting right in front of them to feel good about themselves because they are "a popular people's choice". Or you're a troll. In either cases you are accomplishing what you set out to do. Bravo!
If I had to put money on it, I would go with choice two because you continually announce things about your personal/private life, such as the emails you keep announcing.
On behalf of people looking for critiques on their work, I think that if no one praises your work for being good you are doing it wrong. Not be harsh, but it's a cold reality and shouldn't let you get down. I agree that people need to actually comment on alters that don't look good to help aspiring artists. No "official" or "unofficial" critic needed for this. That is a community's job. And we are slacking.
I can answer some of this. I certainly don't have a "business" doing this. If that was possible that would be great, might be more fun than my real job. But I don't think the market would support it.
As to the second option, I have no "need" to do this. What I perceive however was a "need" that wasn't being fulfilled. At least not regularly. I have seen, many times, new alterers post something here and receive a few pats on the back for alters that weren't that good. Sometimes there are suggestions, sometimes there aren't. I feel bad for these folks. If I made an alter, I would want to know how to make it better. We can all improve at everything we do. No one is perfect in their art. Nobody. One of the best tools we have is constructive feedback from the community.
You implied something in your post, that I want to be an "official or unofficial critic" (bolded for emphasis). Yet I never said this. In fact, I have stated repeatedly that there are no qualifications by which someone COULD be what you imply I wish to be. But I do wonder when I see the feedback that an individual offers "why should they be listened to?". For folks like Bristol, Demonium, etc the reason is clear. They are great alterers! But I'm not. Why would anyone listen? Why would anyone care? So, I listed (with disclaimer) why my opinion means something. Including the fact that OTHERS have decided my opinion holds worth (enough to risk money on it).
You can ignore that Krimson, and it won't phase me in the least.
Now you talked about my personal/private life. I don't really know what you mean. Any PM or Email I have referenced has been something connected to the forum. When I say that I have had responses I mean responses by PM or email to THIS thread, and my activities here.
But please, ignore my posts if you have a problem with someone other than an artist offering constructive criticism in the hopes of helping the new folks. If you have any other thoughts on this, feel free to PM me. We should probably stay on topic.
I was going to post this as a general reply, but it seemed too far off topic to be cordial. Better as a PM.
Tiger
I see I could have won a bet.
I agree with you that people do need constructive criticism, but the simple fact that you are defending this to no end and decided to ANNOUNCE to the public that you appraise art means that you are trying to be the Go To Guy for critiquing for popularity and recognition amongst the usual "good job" posters. Have you ever heard the phrase " no offense, but..." And then there's some offending comment that follows? Same logic here, just not in terms of insulting. "I'm not an official critic, but your art needs thinner paint/crisper lines/better art skills at simply drawing." Just comment, no need to pull eyes to your story of stewardship.
You even said that there's a "need" that is to be filled and that you are trying to fulfill it. You just invalidated yourself on that front. Mind you, I'm not telling you this just because I find your initial post annoying and to get you to stop. I'm telling you this because you need to stop the small uppity attitude you are giving, even if it is not intentioned.
Speaking of "uppity attitude," this is for what I have bolded. The part where you announced you have a son and that you are constantly receiving emails and/or PMs for criticism of their art, tell me that you are simply attention whoring. It has nothing to do with the thread at hand.* No I don't mean that if someone has a kid means yoI are better than anyone. Simple clarification that you are adding to the "look at me!"
You are probably the only one who visits that thread and tries to help people, which I can say thank you to you for doing, and shame on me for not doing. People probably aren't commenting on the bad posts because they aren't artists and haven't a clue how to fix the problems they see and just comment on the good ones because that is what they like to see and want to congratulate them for making them happy. I know that that's my reason.
As for your second to last paragraph, duly noted and blocked. If you have a response, it can be said publicly.
Those of us who would like a critique post in the "Card Alters- Tips & Getting Started" thread? It doesn't get a lot of action lately, anyway, and it's kind of what it was meant for. I also like the idea of a separate blog, too. All in all I like the idea of critiques, but there needs to be some sort of consent given beforehand, otherwise it'll just end up in more flaming.
@TigerStripedDog: The "virulence" in my post was a direct result of the arrogance in yours. If you truly believe that "the proof is in the pudding" as you say, then let your reviews speak for themselves. You don't need to announce your arrival, tooting your horn about how lucky we all are to have you grace us with your invaluable input. And even after the disgraceful entrance you made, you continue to boast about receiving a couple of PMs? What a joke. If you had any idea about how many times other artists and art collectors are asked and emailed regarding their opinions on altered cards, you wouldn't be bragging about your "accomplishments" here. Your opinion is no more valuable than anyone else's. And the sooner you realize that, the sooner people will be willing to listen to your opinion.
That Mangara looks great. I prefer your b & w alters to your cut and paste ones. You should post a collage of all your black and whites next to each other.
Amazing entries lastly! many incomers have shared very beautiful first works. It's a pity I had no time to handle my brushes lastly...
I would also like you to know that there's a week left for closing December Altered Card Contest. C'mon, give it a try!
About the controversial discussion that had place here during the last days, I would like to have some words:
I agree with some of each involved user's statements. While being respectful, any criticism helps to improve people's capacities, even the ones merely based on personal taste and, of course, the ones focused on technique.
About the importance of those opinions, ALL of them are the same important, since nobody here is empirically proben to be an art eminence. I think that opinions in general aren't meant to be treated as conceptual absolutisms arised from our very egos, but as invitations to reflect. Some times our moods/cultural baggage may lead us to take opinions as something they aren't. The secret here is to always remember that what connected us here (and still doing) beside the game, is our aestethic sensibility, being us artists or just watchers. Let's contribute to keep this thread as cool and peaceful as it always has been, while also keep honoring the main reason we are here for.
Guys, please keep the tone of this thread respectful. There have been some unkind words spoken here over the past day or so, and the staff would like them to stop now.
Everyone: Tiger is entitled to an opinion, and is allowed to share it however he sees fit, as can the rest of us.
Tiger: When you claim to be a critic, you should expect your claim to be scrutinized.
@bobthefunny: You asked for critiques so here they come But first a compliment: you've done really well carrying lines through text, and onto the extensions. Alterers discover pretty quickly that this is tougher than it looks. Potential improvements abound however. A first is that your paint appears thick, and obvious on the card. Most people prefer a more seamless transition. It looks as if you could "feel" the difference between the natural art and the alter. As well, your color matching isn't spot on, another reason the border of the extension can be seen. If you were going for a stylistic change, that was accomplished but from what I have seen from buyers/sellers/traders is that a consistent style from natural card art to extension is preferred over a shift. There have been a few exceptions, but usually the rule stands. If you don't feel up to that, completely redesigning the art in your own style works well too. Some alterers ONLY do that, and do it well. Its also why lands make great subjects for new alterers, because a whole-scene alter can be easier than a form.
Thanks a lot Tiger! I got another comment that my paint looked thick on there, and yes, it is quite noticeable. I had picked up some paints quickly for a Christmas themed set of alters (Frost Titans with Santa Hats wielding Christmas Trees), and decided to try out some full alters.
Quickly also means cheaply. I may need to look into some better quality materials. I was also given some tips on using some highlights to flesh out my towers in the T&L alter, as that's what's breaking the style. I think I did better on the flames there.
I think I'd rather do actual extensions of existing art, before making full redesigns, so I'll follow your suggestion on trying out lands. May have me get the matching in a bit better.
All you have to do is put it into the sun for a summer.
Don´t buy albino FoW "misprints" for hundreds of dollars, all of them are done that way!
Dude, seriously? Do you tape or cover up everything but the art to make sure the rest doesn't fade? I would love a FoW like this in my EDH deck. I honestly think it is painted that way.
This is just fantastic. I love the coloring and the line work. Keep up the good work
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Looking good, you have very good color matching and the texture blending is superb, especially in the bricks on the Rites.
Couple things to watch out for, make sure when using black it doesn't just sink into a flat black. Most 'black' used in pieces like that are actually very dark browns, blues and greens, it can take quite a while to fuss around with and get close, but it will stop the boarders from seeming so sink back so heavily from the rest of the art.
Also, make sure to keep the lines around the text box crisp, does wonders for the alter and makes the illusion all the more complete.
Overall excellent work and very successful extensions!
UR Niv-Mizzet RU
Angel of Salvation / x2 Restoration Angel:
Check out videos of me altering: YouTube
Very nice work, the image and your alter flow very well together, although on the angel of serenity adding a little bit of a light yellow tint to her left wing and the buildings would better match the original color.
Anyway, here's a Poison Ivy I painted last week.
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StaffAfter that, I seem to have had a few paints left over, so I decided to give my first try at extensions/altering. I did a Kamahl first, since I wanted to do a different project with him (will post it later, for now there's a surprise factor for someone who frequents these forums), followed by a Tibor and Lumia, for my EDH deck.
I don't seem to have the hand at color matching yet. I messed it up badly enough on Khamal, I ended up repainting the entire background. T&L I think I did a bit better though.
Not gonna be back in the office till wed to use the scanner, so photos for now:
Critiques?
Retired EDH - Tibor and Lumia | [PR]Nemata |Ramirez dePietro | [C]Edric | Riku | Jenara | Lazav | Heliod | Daxos | Roon | Kozilek
Holy moly. Having not been here in a while...I literally died reading the posts of that critic guy. My bf and I, both alter artists, were literally rolling around laughing...
He was trolling us...
That was literally unbelievable.
Here's a hint: most people don't make art so others will like it. They do it because it is fulfilling, and it makes them happy.
Posts merged. Also, please learn how to correctly use the word "literally." - B
Www.tumblr.com/blog/mtgalteredstudio
Here's some more stuff I just finished:
Www.tumblr.com/blog/mtgalteredstudio
x4 snapcastermage:
Check out videos of me altering: YouTube
@Aeontropy: That is truly impressive. Awesome collection. On a side note, talk about a fun general and a fun deck to play, both visually and from a purely EDH standpoint. I think my favorite piece that you showed was your Boreal Shelf. The colors/contrast really make the piece "pop" out. Very Van Gogh-esque. COOL.
@fallet (Land extensions): Very well done. I wish the pictures were a little more straight on, sometimes that can give us a better idea on the detail. The backdrop work on the Swamp is really well done, the subtle wash out of the color does a great job of forcing the perspective, and drawing the eye naturally. I don't recall how much of this was part of the card to begin with, but your extension appears to be nearly indistinguishable.
@pochy (3rd/4th Delver): LOVE the wolves! I am curious, is there a reference here that I don't get? The subject is interesting for a delver, this isn't a critique so much as a curious question.
@Demonium (Rite of Replication): Once again, your work is fantastic. That you have bound the alter to PoT is really cool. At first I almost missed the subtle reflections behind her, that interpretation on the card is just so cool. I could see this being a signature series, like Claar's architect blueprints or Poxy's Duals.
@jenyang80272010 (Superman/Cap): Very fun work. Superman is one of my favorite characters and has instant recognition. Your work with the anatomy and his muscles is spot on. Its tough for me to tell without seeing the card in person whether some of the texture work around the card is intentional and stylistic or needs to be cleaned up. I would love to get ahold of these cards and look at them up close. Of the two, I think Supes has the better detail, structure, and works with Jace's face, but both are a ton of fun. I know I have seen this done before (with Captain, not Supe) but it might have been THIS work that I saw. Have you posted this anywhere else?
@wtwlf123: The virulence and vitriol of your response speaks of a deep anger that seems a mite unreasonable when directed towards someone who 1) You don't know, 2) Is trying to help people, and 3) Didn't actually direct any thoughts/concerns/questions/comments at you. Several (4+ as of this post) have now approached me in PM's asking for my opinions, valuations, and general perceptions on alterations. Including artists I have critiqued. The proof is in the pudding my friend. I posted my "qualifications" (in quotes because seriously, one can't be qualified for something like this, it isn't a field, there are no regulations or standards
@Zanny77: Hey thanks, I think? Misguided seems a little harsh, but I still appreciate it. Glad you have friends of the quality to be harsh. A lot of friends are afraid to do that. You're a lucky guy/gal. I look forward to seeing your alters soon!
@seesic (Desolation Angel): Wow, dark alter! Really fits subject well. I love the interplay on the anatomy. As someone who has had instruction in anatomy I can appreciate the detail around the neck/deltoids/traps/and upper arm. The muscle play is fantastic. Your text work is also better than some of your previous alters, which is always a plus.
@EvilNerdINC (Angels): In the middle Resto the feathers are AWESOME. That you made use of the natural card border to shade out the tips of feathers is really clever. You took what is a usually a challenging part of card alteration and turned it to your benefit. Again, your lines around the box could use some trimming, and the textures above the box still don't match the sky beneath, but this is a common difficulty, especially when you aren't able to fade to black. That you took this piece on at all is impressive. Well done!
@closetvictorian (Poison Ivy): First of all, thanks for the support! But on to the alter: First of all, cool subject. Comic alters have wide appeal, and your use of this particular villain on this particular card is pretty clever. Definitely made me smile. I am probably not telling you anything you didn't already think of yourself, but the bulk of the improvements can be made in improving realism. And this is hard. Really hard. Your shapes/proportions are well done, and I really like the leaf work. It really boils down to your textures on the body and with her hair. Sharpening these up, and adding some further detail can carry you far. Love the "come hither" look. Classic for P.I.!
@6jerfz: Lol, tell me about it. But have no fear Jerfz, I have had tons of interest by email and through PM. I was surprised really. Behind closed doors people have been really nice, and appreciative. I don't let the trolls get me down
@bobthefunny: You asked for critiques so here they come
@Cardcandy (Force, etc): First, as a general response to your patronizing (matronizing?) response. Keep in mind that there are times when artists are not the ones you want critiquing or appraising works. For one, most artists I know overvalue or undervalue their work. The best determinant of a work's value is the free market. And people within the free market have (and still are) asking for me to appraise. I fully admitted that I don't know WHY they asked me, and I gave a disclaimer to that regard. But at this point its something they give me VALUE for ($5 store credit per appraisal) at some places and trade value (varying amounts) with individuals. If I can make value from appraising, there MUST be value in what I do. You can laugh all you want, doesn't change those facts
That said, your works: Force of Will was really interesting. Your choices of where/when/how you extended were interesting to me. I also love the use of the black outline around the flames, it stylistic, and helps with contrast. Very well done. Your Tormenta wasn't nearly of the same quality. The texture of the moon (?) was completely off above the lines, and was streaky. As a collector, a clear defect like that turns me away almost immediately because it draws the eye away from the good parts of the piece, mainly the contralateral extensions. The Resto looks great, with awesome work on the sky, and great feathering. Would look great in an EDH deck.
Thats all for now. Still taking emails/PM's over the holidays so keep them coming, responses might be a little slow
Tiger
Currently playing: EDH
GWBGhave, Guru of BeatdownsGWB
BWRKaalia of the FacesmashBWR
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Looking forward to your next alters!
Tiger
Currently playing: EDH
GWBGhave, Guru of BeatdownsGWB
BWRKaalia of the FacesmashBWR
I can only think of a few reasons why you would walk in here and decide to announce and begin to critique alters: you have a business for critiquing alters, in which case you are slyly advertising. Or you are one of those pompous art critics that have to voice what they think about a piece of art sitting right in front of them to feel good about themselves because they are "a popular people's choice". Or you're a troll. In either cases you are accomplishing what you set out to do. Bravo!
If I had to put money on it, I would go with choice two because you continually announce things about your personal/private life, such as the emails you keep revealing.
On behalf of people looking for critiques on their work, I think that if no one praises your work for being good you are doing it wrong. Not be harsh, but it's a cold reality and shouldn't let you get down. I agree that people need to actually comment on alters that don't look good to help aspiring artists. No "official" or "unofficial" critic needed for this. That is a community's job. And we are slacking.
I see I could have won a bet.
I agree with you that people do need constructive criticism, but the simple fact that you are defending this to no end and decided to ANNOUNCE to the public that you appraise art means that you are trying to be the Go To Guy for critiquing for popularity and recognition amongst the usual "good job" posters. Have you ever heard the phrase " no offense, but..." And then there's some offending comment that follows? Same logic here, just not in terms of insulting. "I'm not an official critic, but your art needs thinner paint/crisper lines/better art skills at simply drawing." Just comment, no need to pull eyes to your story of stewardship.
You even said that there's a "need" that is to be filled and that you are trying to fulfill it. You just invalidated yourself on that front. Mind you, I'm not telling you this just because I find your initial post annoying and to get you to stop. I'm telling you this because you need to stop the small uppity attitude you are giving, even if it is not intentioned.
Speaking of "uppity attitude," this is for what I have bolded. The part where you announced you have a son and that you are constantly receiving emails and/or PMs for criticism of their art, tell me that you are simply attention whoring. It has nothing to do with the thread at hand.* No I don't mean that if someone has a kid means yoI are better than anyone. Simple clarification that you are adding to the "look at me!"
You are probably the only one who visits that thread and tries to help people, which I can say thank you to you for doing, and shame on me for not doing. People probably aren't commenting on the bad posts because they aren't artists and haven't a clue how to fix the problems they see and just comment on the good ones because that is what they like to see and want to congratulate them for making them happy. I know that that's my reason.
As for your second to last paragraph, duly noted and blocked. If you have a response, it can be said publicly.
Those of us who would like a critique post in the "Card Alters- Tips & Getting Started" thread? It doesn't get a lot of action lately, anyway, and it's kind of what it was meant for. I also like the idea of a separate blog, too. All in all I like the idea of critiques, but there needs to be some sort of consent given beforehand, otherwise it'll just end up in more flaming.
In short: STOP FIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIGHTING!!
Rogue Bard Media - My gallery and info on commissions can now be found right here!
For Sale - Pre-painted cards available for sale
My DeviantArt - All my other art
~*~*~*PIMP MY DECK!*~*~*~
My 630 Card Powered Cube
My Article - "Cube Design Philosophy"
My Article - "Mana Short: A study in limited resource management."
My 50th Set (P)review - Discusses my top 20 Cube cards from OTJ!
My 630 Card Powered Cube
My Article - "Cube Design Philosophy"
My Article - "Mana Short: A study in limited resource management."
My 50th Set (P)review - Discusses my top 20 Cube cards from OTJ!
I would also like you to know that there's a week left for closing December Altered Card Contest. C'mon, give it a try!
About the controversial discussion that had place here during the last days, I would like to have some words:
I agree with some of each involved user's statements. While being respectful, any criticism helps to improve people's capacities, even the ones merely based on personal taste and, of course, the ones focused on technique.
About the importance of those opinions, ALL of them are the same important, since nobody here is empirically proben to be an art eminence. I think that opinions in general aren't meant to be treated as conceptual absolutisms arised from our very egos, but as invitations to reflect. Some times our moods/cultural baggage may lead us to take opinions as something they aren't. The secret here is to always remember that what connected us here (and still doing) beside the game, is our aestethic sensibility, being us artists or just watchers. Let's contribute to keep this thread as cool and peaceful as it always has been, while also keep honoring the main reason we are here for.
Everyone: Tiger is entitled to an opinion, and is allowed to share it however he sees fit, as can the rest of us.
Tiger: When you claim to be a critic, you should expect your claim to be scrutinized.
Thank you for your time,
-Mobo
That comment may have just about ruined my entire night.
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StaffThanks a lot Tiger! I got another comment that my paint looked thick on there, and yes, it is quite noticeable. I had picked up some paints quickly for a Christmas themed set of alters (Frost Titans with Santa Hats wielding Christmas Trees), and decided to try out some full alters.
Quickly also means cheaply. I may need to look into some better quality materials. I was also given some tips on using some highlights to flesh out my towers in the T&L alter, as that's what's breaking the style. I think I did better on the flames there.
I think I'd rather do actual extensions of existing art, before making full redesigns, so I'll follow your suggestion on trying out lands. May have me get the matching in a bit better.
Retired EDH - Tibor and Lumia | [PR]Nemata |Ramirez dePietro | [C]Edric | Riku | Jenara | Lazav | Heliod | Daxos | Roon | Kozilek
Oh, my bad: Character is Engineer, from Team Fortress 2 (Property of Valve). D:
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Dude, seriously? Do you tape or cover up everything but the art to make sure the rest doesn't fade? I would love a FoW like this in my EDH deck. I honestly think it is painted that way.
Thanks to Heroes of the Plane for the awesome Sig.
Currently Playing- EDH
GGGOmnath, Locus of the LifestreamGGG
BBBShirei, Lord of PoniesBBB
UWRasputin Dreamweaver, Russia's Greatest Love MachineUW
UBWZur, Killer of FunUBW
UGWTreva, Princess of CanterlotUGW
RWTajic, Master of the Reverse BladeRW
RRRZirilan, How to Train Your DragonRRR
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Gelectrode
Ascended Lawmage
Blaze Commando