Mark McDonnell

Upcoming "MERMAIDS" Gallery Girls Evening Workshop: Feb. 3rd (10-1 a.m.)

2012-01-30T07:04:00.000-08:00

I'm happy to be a part and answer any questions as well as selling and signing books @ this upcoming Gallery Girls Workshop @ Gallery Godo, with model's Jennifer Fabos and Sara Streeter . . . and it doesn't get any better than that.

Best,

MAC

New Uploaded Video: Experimenting with PrismaColor Pencils - 02

2012-01-26T10:17:00.000-08:00

Hey Guys with the digital world dominating our lives, I have found it is pretty important to continue to use traditional media that really can be transferred into our digital work (for look and feel, or otherwise),

As we're all gearing up for the beginning of the New Year, I decided to post an all new video in the realm of using different mediums and experimentation when creating gesture specific drawings for the Animation and Entertainment Industry. It's a quick over the shoulder view of a few drawings done with a PrismaColor Pencil and Ebony Pencil, as one is a wonderful waxy smooth pencil and the other has such a great range of light to dark all with one pencil making it so much fun to draw with. Any thoughts as to the importance of continuing to work traditionally outside of our digital work and if it is beneficial to any artists out there?

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ICfaHyT5xEo&list=UUF1LoZK3OHAH6mWy8yVigFA&index=1&feature=plcp
or
http://www.youtube.com/user/Cre8tivemark

All my best to everyone spanning the Artistic Globe,

MAC

NEW Classes Starting - 2012 Begins!

2012-01-23T10:39:00.000-08:00

I'm happy to announce I will be teaching a new string of classes, beginning soon:

• 3Kicks: Fridays (7:30-10:30) - The class has just begun but you can get an adjusted rate.

and

• AAI/Animation Union: Tuesdays (7:30-10:30) - Starting Feb. 14th

The class will be directed toward how to approach Costumed Gesture Drawing for a direct application to the Animation and Entertainment Industry as well as be focusing on more of a storytelling method of thinking and how to pull the story out of the model in front of you - how to access the ideas that may be applied to your drawings.

Blue Canvas Magazine Release Launch

2012-01-11T10:00:00.000-08:00

I was lucky enough to contribute to the launch of Blue Canvas' magazine release in downtown L.A. through one of the studios I instruct @, 3Kicks Studio in Pasadena. It was quite a thing to be interacting and drawing in front of a couple hundred people. I believe I did over 100 drawings that evening, all of which I gave away.

Recent FEMALE Figure Drawing - 2012

2012-01-08T11:03:00.000-08:00

Here's a few recent 2-3 minute figure drawing sketches "on deck." I've been experimenting recently with pastels just for a nice change of pace as I have been inspired by one of the living masters, Karl Gnass.

MAC

Across the shores and down in the depths. . . I saw it. . .

2012-01-05T10:53:00.000-08:00

- First posted sketch of 2012! -

Happy New Year,

MAC

Happy New Year - 2012!

2011-12-31T12:40:00.000-08:00

Wishing every one a Happy New Year to those of you who Celebrate in this fashion.

All my best to everyone for a Happy Healthy 2012!,

MAC

Creatures-On-The-Go 04

2011-12-16T22:03:00.001-08:00

Here's a Halloween leftover. . .

New Video Uploaded: Experimenting with Different Mediums: Sharpie - 01

2011-12-14T14:49:00.000-08:00

Here's a quick video on approaching sketching with a Sharpie pen while doing gesture drawing. This is the first one of this particular medium that I was happy to have it filmed by my buddy Carl Aspuria in "real time," as I know many people on my YouTube page were requesting to see the process in a one-to-one format.

• I just want to add, as artists we get set in our ways many times and we often do things that we're pretty comfortable at accomplishing. - Meaning we tend not to stray way from what's easier for us to do successfully. - This video is any example that sometimes it's nice to approach things differently, which you can see in how I'm gripping the pen in this demo. By holding the pen farther back in the initial stages, it gave me the ability to be more direct and chance my habitual drawing application.

Birds of a Feather. . . Too

2011-12-07T14:52:00.000-08:00

Here's another pass of a different style for the little guys below for the WB.

Birds of a Feather. . .

2011-12-01T13:44:00.000-08:00

Here's a few unused designs from a recent WB 3D kids project. These were the JPN "outside of the box" designs.

Motivarti Mentorship Opportunity

2011-11-30T10:33:00.000-08:00

Motivarti.org

MAC

Winter 3Kicks Studios - Classes JAN. 2012

2011-11-28T09:29:00.001-08:00

Hey Guys,

As the Winter is approaching us, (here in the States), some new studio sessions are going to begin and they generally fill quite fast.

I will be instructing Friday evenings from 7:30-10:30 as it's really a great time to know the weekend is coming as was requested from several of my students. It's a 10-week course that is entitled: Imaginative Costume Quick Sketch. In this class we will be using many different sources of inspiration and how to bend the information to your will and create scenarios that could be used in a Studio environment, simulating on-the-job training.

Classes begin - 01/13/2012-03/16/2012.

Best,

MAC

Cre8tivemarks @ CTN Animation Expo - 2011

2011-11-14T17:15:00.000-08:00

Well that time of year has come again, and happily I'll be showing again at CTN in Burbank again this year. I'll have my new book and loads of sketches and original artwork available. This year Mark McDonnell/Cre8tivemarks will be at Table T-54, stop by and say hello if you're attending this year.

All my best to everyone and Happy "almost" Holiday's.

MAC

New Video Uploaded: Experimenting with Different Mediums: PrismaColor Pencils - 01

2011-11-08T11:59:00.000-08:00

As we're all gearing up for the 3rd Annual CTN ANIMATION EXPO in Burbank California, I decided to post an all new video in the realm of using different mediums and experimentation when creating gesture specific drawings for the Animation and Entertainment Industry. It's a quick over the shoulder view of a few drawings done with a PrismaColor Pencil, as they are a wonderful waxy smooth pencil to draw with.

or

http://www.youtube.com/user/Cre8tivemark

All my best to everyone spanning the Artistic Globe,

MAC

Gallery Gala - This Saturday @ 7!

2011-11-02T09:38:00.000-07:00

I'll be in a gallery show this weekend, Saturday November 5th. I'll be there with other extremely talented artists for the reception from 7-10 P.M. for the 3Kicks Studio crew.

The show will be hung from November 5th-28th @:
210 E. Main Street - Alhambra, CA 91801

www.gallerynucleus.com

Creatures-On-The-Go 03

2011-10-30T11:32:00.000-07:00

I had to get a couple of creature sketches in before Halloween. . . phew.

Creatures-On-The-Go 02

2011-10-26T10:53:00.001-07:00

Some more late night sketches for the Holiday.

Creatures-On-The-Go 01

2011-10-24T10:04:00.001-07:00

Happy (Almost) Halloween,MAC

Mr. Beakly

2011-10-17T09:05:00.000-07:00

A sketch caught at a local aviary while dining amongst friends.

Sketchbook Doodle: "Tying One On"

2011-10-16T15:04:00.000-07:00

How To Draw With Different Mediums - Pastel 01

2011-10-12T17:56:00.000-07:00

I have just posted a new video of how to approach gesture drawing while experimenting with Pastel, as it's a medium that has much to offer. I'll be posting different videos in the near future that deal with the subject of experimentation, this one is the longest of the already recorded videos. It's the first on using Pastel in quick sketch sessions.

MAC

Evil Rises. . .

2011-09-20T11:13:00.000-07:00

Please excuse the copyright text - it's an Orphan Acts thing.

Best,

MAC

Disneyland Doodle

2011-09-13T15:14:00.001-07:00

Here's the only drawing I did the first day I arrived at the Disneyland Hotel for a family vacation.

He's defiantly. . . a keeper.

MAC

He's Got Stripes. . .

2011-09-06T18:00:00.000-07:00

On A Monday I Was Ar-rested (Uh Huh)
On A Tuesday They Locked Me In The Jail (Oh Boy)
On A Wednesday My Trial Was At-tested
On A Thursday They Said Guilty And The Judge's Gavel Fell

I Got Stripes --- Stripes Around My Shoulders
I Got Chains --- Chains Around My Feet
I Got Stripes --- Stripes Around My Shoulders
And Them Chains --- Them Chains They're About To Drag Me Down

On A Monday My Momma Come To See Me
On A Tuesday They Caught Me With A File
On A Wednesday I'm Down In Solitary
On A Thursday I Start On Bread And Water For A While

I Got Stripes --- Stripes Around My Shoulders
I Got Chains --- Chains Around My Feet
I Got Stripes --- Stripes Around My Shoulders
And Them Chains --- Them Chains They're About To Drag Me Down

I Got Stripes --- Stripes Around My Shoulders
I Got Chains --- Chains Around My Feet
I Got Stripes --- Stripes Around My Shoulders
And Them Chains --- Them Chains They're About To Drag Me

LAAFA Lecture Notes

2011-09-02T10:51:00.000-07:00

Here's some wipe board design notes from a recent session @ The Los Angeles Academy of Figurative Art focusing on silhouette's inside of silhouette's to create clear and readable forms and actions.

Best,

MAC

New Character Design Class @ LAAFA

2011-08-24T12:31:00.000-07:00

(Please note, the above images were not designed by me - they are examples of design principles that we will be discussing.)

Hey Guys,

For the last 3 or 4 years I have been asked by various schools and students if I would teach a Character Design class. Due to my schedule and the amount of prep work to create a new and unique curriculum, I did not want to commit. For the last year I have been instructing a Character Design Class at Disney and have finally decided on a quick but dense class session to instruct.

So, I have agreed to instruct a Character Design class that will focus on creating unique and iconic characters in various styles to suite the fast paced world of the Animation and Entertainment Industry. This 8-week class will focus on capturing a specific and new style each class session and ready you for what it takes to design on a tight deadline and with confidence in the Industry.

Artists will be designing these characters based on a new style each week. Reference will be supplied on each style at the beginning of each session for inspiration and guidelines stimulating on-job situations. Considerable draftsmanship will be needed to control the designs associated with the class. Time outside the class will also be needed to perform the tasks at hand. So get ready. . . to create a new set of designs that will take your craft to new levels and help build your portfolio for Studio submissions.

I hope to see many of you who have requested the class as there are limited spots available and it will be a full class shortly. Please see the link listed below for more information:

http://reg125.imperisoft.com/LAAFA/ProgramDetail/3134353331/Registration.aspx

(The classes are held on Wednesday's from 7:00 - 10:00 P.M. - Starting October 19-December 7th)
• Class fee is only: $375.00 •

Best,

MAC

Mellon Balls and Vegan Prosciutto Slices

2011-08-23T11:07:00.000-07:00

Another quick Friday doodle.

MAC

VAL - Car Wash Doodle

2011-08-22T22:10:00.000-07:00

This was a quick sketch I did while I was at the Car Wash earlier today.

A hopefully sketch, I suppose.

MAC

Finger Snappin' Goodness!

2011-08-18T22:22:00.000-07:00

Here's a sketch I just ripped out rather quickly while happily listening to the Kings of Swing - The Big Bad Voodoo Daddy's.

Best,

MAC

A few little people doodles. . .

2011-08-15T11:02:00.000-07:00

Here's some recent animal sketches I did. I literally had an hour to fill between a meeting and decided to just see what I could draw quickly. First dip to the left was these little guys. It was nice to be amongst my friends again. . .

MAC

It's . . . me?

2011-08-15T09:29:00.001-07:00

Here's a drawing my buddy and uber talented friend Kyle Boyd did of me while I was instructing at one of my Disney sessions. He's the kind of designer that makes his drawings make you chuckle and laugh.

Check him out at:

Www.kyleboyd.blogspot.com

Old Development: Mattel Development

2011-08-10T12:14:00.000-07:00

Here's some very old development for a new younger character Mattel was working on creating for a new gaming/toy line. He was to be a 3D character that was animated in front of each segment and behind the wheel with a possible television show to follow. There was an older targeted character and they wanted a younger more hip character in his place.

© Mattel, 2008

Recent Disney Session . . .

2011-08-01T20:06:00.000-07:00

It's getting a bit rare for me to get a chance to drawing during sessions I instruct at. Perhaps some more Demo's like these sketches done with a Tombo and a Pentel Stylo. My focus was on a more classic Disney/Renaissance style.

Best,

MAC

Comic-Con 2011 - New Sketchbook: Vol.01

2011-07-14T09:24:00.000-07:00

I'll be at Table J-6 in sunny San Diego this year, come on by and say hello if you're down in Southern California for the event!

This will be the official debut my new 100-page sketchbook entitled: Mark McDonnell's Cre8tivemarks Sketchbook Volume 01.

This hardbound sketchbook is the first volume of both personal and professional sketches from my recent collections wanderings in the Animation and Entertainment field. It's a deluxe collector's edition with a canvas cover, stamping and UV gloss to boot. I feel very lucky I am presenting this material as well as the manner in which it is being showed. Stop on by and flip through it or just to say hello . . . it's the greatest show on Earth!

It's here. . . COMIC-CON 2011.

Again, I'm @ Table J-6.

MAC

New Class @ 3Kicks Studio

2011-06-27T17:51:00.001-07:00

I'll be instructing a new class, "Imaginative Costumed Quick Sketch" on Friday's from 7:30 pm - 10:30 pm at Charles Hu's fantastic studio, 3Kicks Studio in Glendale.

Check it out if you're interested:

http://3kicks.blogspot.com/

Sealyham Charity Art Auction

2011-06-07T13:44:00.000-07:00

I was asked to see if I was interested in doing a piece for a benefit charity art auction for a Sealyham function. I was given a day, and happily here is the piece I submitted. Quick and dirty, a less is more approach.

Best,

MAC

New LAAFA Class Starting June 7th

2011-05-20T17:09:00.000-07:00

Hey guys . . . I'm lucky enough to be instructing at one of the most prestigious schools in the area. Anyone at any level is welcome, I'll customize it to your experience level:

http://reg125.imperisoft.com/LAAFA/ProgramDetail/3132363038/Registration.aspx

More images to come,

MAC

Fun Disney Session . . .

2011-04-28T22:10:00.000-07:00

My buddy Angelo was kind enough to be my Muse at Disney this evening . . .

Best,

MAC

The Importance of Warm-Ups

2011-04-22T14:03:00.000-07:00

I often don't get a lot of time to draw during a session I am teaching as I get around the room and help each person individually on their artistic level to personalize the experience. More often than not that means I have to be on point when I am giving advice. To start each session I often do 1's, 2's or 3's to have everyone focus on the importance of getting the flow and/or feeling the character/model is acting out - making it very hard to get caught up in the details of a short pose. These sketches were examples of how to stay loose, getting the total and not lost in the details. . . that's for 5 minute poses and beyond.

Best,

MAC

My Hits a Homerun: SMIGLY SURVIVES

2011-04-13T20:26:00.000-07:00

Here's the album cover for one of the props in the video. Poor poor Smigly.

Marcelo Vignali VERY LIMITED SKETCHBOOK

2011-04-13T01:09:00.000-07:00

This is the one.

Marcelo Vignali has created a one-of-a-kind sketchbook that will debuting in Anaheim the weekend of April 29th-May 1st for the Anaheim Comic Convention. They are a very limited number of printed sketchbooks from one of the Master's of our craft.

Get them while they're still available . . . they're gunna go fast!

More on: http://vignalistudio.blogspot.com/

Best,

MAC

Recent Sketches - Sonja!

2011-04-08T19:00:00.000-07:00

"A Welcoming."

"All in a day's work."

"Do you feel lucky?"

"He He He."

"Swinging for the fences."

Spring @ LAAFA

2011-03-19T08:55:00.001-07:00

SPRING is finally here!

I will be leading another session at The Los Angeles Academy of Figurative Art starting April 20th for 8 sessions on Wednesday evenings from 7-10pm. The class will focus heavily on covering how to intensify storytelling aspects in your costumed gesture drawings to directly translate into the Animation, Illustration and Entertainment Industry's needs.

If you enroll before March 20th, you will save $50.00 as the tuition goes up after that date. You can enroll at www.laafa.org.

All my best to everyone and Happy Spring Forward!

MAC

Still here. Still battling.

2011-02-11T10:09:00.000-08:00

. . . more to come.

New LAAFA Costumed Gesture Drawing Class (starting 01/29/2011)

2010-12-22T08:25:00.001-08:00

I will be teaching for anyone outside of the studios starting in the new year, 2011. The class is the same class I teach at Disney and Dreamworks condensed into a very dense amount of knowledge for a 8 week session @ LAAFA. The class will be held on Saturday from 2:00 P.M - 5:00 P.M. . . . . (coffee provided)!

Link:

http://www.laafa.org

All my best to everyone,

MAC

Mark McDonnell: "MAC Sketchbook Sessions" 03

2010-11-24T08:28:00.000-08:00

Here is an all new video which is the THIRD of my How To Draw In Your Sketchbook that I'm calling the "MAC Sketchbook Sessions" for the Animation and Entertainment Industry. It's an over the shoulder view of my flipping through my third of many personal sketchbooks and giving commentary. This book's goal was the use of black and white to control values as well as the eye's interest in the contrast between the two. The pen's used were the Gelly-Roll/Pentel Stylo and a Pentel "Water Brush" for the thicker lines and darkest darks.

I hope it's enjoyable.

Best,

MAC

CTN was a SUCESS!

2010-11-24T08:22:00.000-08:00

Just wanted to give a big thank you for those of you who came by the CTN Animation Expo and were kind enough for letting me flip through your portfolios, purchasing my book and artwork as well as stopping by and chatting with me. From Mobius to the Disney crew and on to the amazing talent that was on exhibition . . . thank you and I was so happy to be a part of Tina Price's AMAZING show.

(Pictures to come!)

And for everyone in the States, have a HAPPY THANKSGIVING with family and friends . . . and for those around the Globe, have a nice weekend.

All my best to everyone,

MAC

CTN is ALMOST HERE!

2010-11-15T20:07:00.000-08:00

Hey guys,

It's that time of year again and I'm happy to be a part of the 2nd CTN ANIMATION EXPO, with so much more to offer than last year . . and last year was an AMAZING event! Come on down and experience the show first hand, it's going to be a showstopper AGAIN!

All my best and I'll be at Table T-14, right by the front door!

Best,

MAC

Happy Halloween 2010

2010-10-25T18:59:00.001-07:00

Busy, busy, busy . . . but had to enjoy the holiday in 2010!

MAC

Quite An Honor!

2010-10-16T18:15:00.001-07:00

Online Colleges and Universities

I was lucky enough to open an email from the folks at Online Colleges and Universities wishing me congratulations as my blogsite and YouTube site was determined to be an essential part of our resources, and has received ourTop Learn Animation Blogs award presented by Online Colleges and Universities!

Pretty cool.

Best,

MAC

New LAAFA Classes now ONLINE & Streaming LIVE!

2010-10-11T10:53:00.001-07:00

Hey Guys,

I was just given the okay to invite you to join in on a new interactive teaching experience for all of you that asked for it:

LAAFA has an array of Illustration and Entertainment Classes this Fall. We are thrilled with our new line-up of talented working professionals from major entertainment studios.
Entertainment and Illustration Classes
8-week classes starting from $410

Special Bonus: Enroll by October 15th and receive $50 off of a 8-week class!

• I Just wanted to let you know that a new edition has been added in a Beta Test for taking my class online for all of you that were interested in taking my class but live to far away or the large amount of folks that happily live in International Waters. This is your chance and I'm happy to invite you to take my class and interact with me on the fly in this Live Online Streaming Classroom setting with LAAFA (which is The Los Angeles Academy of Figurative Art). I will be doing many demos each session and invite you along to watch me critique and lecture during the classroom session. You will also be welcome to write in and ask questions on the fly. This is the initial test for this new classroom experience so please bear with me and the amazing folks at LAAFA so we can bring you what you have been asking for for quite some time now.

Best,

MAC

An Interesting Note -

2010-09-27T10:55:00.000-07:00

• I got an interesting email from a very talent student of mine (from my Union class) and thought I would share:

Generally I don't put down a lot of lines not that I am against this, it's just as important if the overall statement is answered. I think through the forms but what I ALWAYS need is the life or the fluidness of the feeling of how the character is acting. The rest can be added onto or refined without the auidence really knowing there are under lines. This is especially evident when I use a pen. Just want it to appear cleaner and . . . if it's a female character, then the lines are ALWAYS kept to a minumum. I do think of shape, but more of inside out first then the shape adapts to resolve itself. The shapes can always be refined and make more designed . . . but the feeling or idea behind the action should be first and foremost.

- "Are you thinking a little more of the contours of the character while gesturing as well? I know in past figure drawing classes, you hear about capturing the gesture/attitude first and THEN build your geometric forms on top of that. But in your case, are you almost combining the two into one step? "

- YES! I'm thinking through and the draftsmanship will come out and save the drawing if need be. The drawing I did for you last time was not a great drawing but I saved it with rythem and acting in the face. The forms are 3Dimensional but the overall design reads and brings you into the face. It's a combination of rythem/gesture, design and composition! You can jump ahead but hopefully not to loose the overall feeling or flow/rythem/gesture/life-force that you're going for. I don't encourage this as it's a very easy way to get yourself in trouble. Glen Vilppu always said to me: Gesture, Construction, Anatomy then Technique. But after throwing around lines for many years they eventually work in a symbiotic way and become an amobic sense of drawing. Meaning it all happens at once when you have put in the time to honor the craft. But the end goal should always be . . . the STORY! Afterall that's really paramount and the whole reason behind why we draw and design really - it's story! Story of life, story of what's happening in the panel, story of what will happen - what was before, during this shot and most certainly after. It should have a sense of place and purpose in time knowing that when we leave this character, he/she/it will continue on and live their life and obtain their quest (however GRAND or moment to moment that might be). It has to live on. That's what being TIMELESS is all about. It's another life/world/place in time that will continue while we live ours so we may think about where their at or at what moment we want to relive in our heads before bed.

MAC

New Class & ANIMATION NATION

2010-09-24T12:21:00.000-07:00

Hey Guys,

I will be instructing a new class at LAAFA.org (The Los Angeles Academy of Figurative Art) starting Oct. 4th and it's already filling up fast.

AND

The AMAZING crew at Animation Nation (Charles Zembillas and SnakeBite) are having a gathering with guest speaker with the one . . . the only . . . .RICHIE CHAVEZ. If you don't know who he is, you had better check it out. He was one of the principle artists to start both DREAMWORKS and SONY - a Visual Development WIZ! Check it out:

AN Night Address:

2006 W. Magnolia Blvd.
Burbank, CA 91506

Tuesday Sept 28th, 2010
Doors open: 7:00PM

Best,

MAC

Under the Influence . . .

2010-09-13T09:45:00.001-07:00

Recently I have been asked quite a bit who some of my greatest influences are artistically. There are so many and new one's created almost daily thanks to the internet and the blogging world. But there are some staples that still mean a great deal to me for many reasons.

1. Marc Davis
2. Frank Frazetta
3. Mort Drucker
4. John Singer Sargent
5. Glen Keane
6. Hans Bacher
7. Rein Poortvliet
8. Paul Felix
9. Claire Wendling
10. Berni Wrightson
11. Brian Froud
12. François-Auguste-René Rodin
13. Jack Davis
14. John Nevarez
15. Marcelo Vignali

Smigly REVEALED!

2010-09-07T13:16:00.000-07:00

My buddy and all around creative funny guy Allen Mezquida has created a new character - written, animated and composited - the one, the only . . . Smigly!

I've known about it for quite some time, but as I was reading the Daily Beast yesterday, there he was front and center . . . Smigly. In all of his glory, a modern day Charlie Brown . . . Full Frontal.

Check it out:
http://www.thedailybeast.com/blogs-and-stories/2010-09-03/youtubes-rising-cartoon-star/

"I HEART JAZZ"

"THE BIG BANK"

• To see more quality goodness, check out:

http://smigly.tv/

Today is the 1st day for my New UNION Class!

2010-09-07T08:38:00.001-07:00

" . . . stay Sassy San Diego."

Mark McDonnell - New Class: AAI/Union!

2010-08-19T09:12:00.000-07:00

For Frank . . .

2010-07-31T18:08:00.001-07:00

Frank Frazetta was, as we all know, an artist that left a great amount of impact and inspiration to many of us along our artistic way. I was lucky enough to take a look at a few originals during Comic-Con 2010 this year and was inspired and happy to pay tribute (in my own way) to someone I will always be inspired by.

Enjoy your new battles buddy . . .

Mark McDonnell's Cre8tivemarks @ COMIC-CON 2010 - Table "C-9"

2010-07-19T16:33:00.001-07:00

Well the greatest show on Earth is about to roll into beautiful downtown San Diego. I'm lucky enough to be in my own booth this year and I'll be @ "TABLE C-9."

• I'll have new copies of my book: THE ART AND FEEL OF MAKING IT REAL based on my teachings as an instructor at Disney, Dreamworks and many of the Art Institutes around California as well as ORIGINAL ARTWORK and EXCLUSIVE LIMITED EDITION PRINTS - especially a new Comic-Con Exclusive Print "In The Beginning..."

- My book will be discounted to $40 this year so come on by and say hello and bring a book if you already have one I'd be happy to sign and personalize it with a sketch.

Best to everyone and I hope to see you in the Carnival of COMIC-CON 2010!

MAC

UPDATE:

Comic-Con 2010 was AMAZING!!! From seeing fellow artists to enjoying new friends and fans -
A BIG THANK YOU to everyone who came out and took the time to stop by . . . cheers!

New Video: "MAC Sketchbook Sessions" - 02

2010-06-25T15:09:00.000-07:00

Hey Guys,

I just posted an all new video which is the SECOND of my How To Draw In Your Sketchbook that I'm calling the "MAC Sketchbook Sessions" for the Animation and Entertainment Industry. It's an over the shoulder view of my flipping through my second of many personal sketchbooks and giving commentary. I hope it's enjoyable.

All my best,

MAC

I'll be back in a minute . . .

2010-06-25T06:52:00.000-07:00

A Model Studio . . .

2010-06-19T00:16:00.000-07:00

A shot taken after a session of instructing at Dreamworks Animation Studio with the "How To Train Your Dragon" Crew.

New Class Starting/DEMO - LAAFA

2010-06-16T10:41:00.000-07:00

"Chaman" - Annecy Film Festival

2010-06-12T09:29:00.000-07:00

This is an AMAZING bumper for the Annecy Film Festival from the students at Gobelins. Chaman is directed by De Théo Boubounelle, Chloé Bury, Jean Baptiste Cumont, Claire Fauvel and Vincent Nghiem. It focuses on “a curious child who discovers the magical world behind the ritual of the shamans of his tribe.”

Beautiful.

MAC

New LAAFA Class (Starting 07/12)

2010-06-08T20:08:00.000-07:00

I will be teaching for anyone outside of the studios again this summer session after taking a bit of a break for travel and such. The class is the same class I teach at Disney and Dreamworks condensed into a very dense amount of knowledge for a 10 week session @ LAAFA. The class will be held on Monday nights - 7:30-10:30 P.M . . . . (coffee provided)!

Link:

http://www.laafa.org/sessions/classes_details.php?id=67&class_id=3131&cat_id=1

P.S. - I will be also giving a demo 06/19/2010 @ 11:00 A.M. if anyone is interested in seeing me work as well as ask any questions you have.

MAC

Water on the move . . .

2010-06-07T17:38:00.000-07:00

Recent sketches from last week, playing with water soluble ink.

MAC

Female Figure Drawing: Corner Doodle

2010-06-04T08:39:00.000-07:00

Here's a really quick corner doodle where I enjoyed the swing of her movement.

HAPPY FRIDAY,

MAC

Inspiration: Figure Drawing

2010-05-28T09:28:00.000-07:00

Recently in a figure drawing session I took a break from using watercolor and was inspired by the recent Rembrandt exhibit at our local J. Paul Getty Museum. There is one particular image that stuck in my head and lead to the inspiration of looking for a way to get the feeling of an ink wash using a pen and PrismaColor markers. In no way was I looking to repeat another's success but rather use it as inspiration for a new way of seeing. (At the bottom of the post is the image that led to this experiment. Simply Masterful.)

Marker Rendering (Part 01 and Part 02)

2010-05-23T09:17:00.000-07:00

PART 01:

and

PART 02:

Here are two new videos that are PART 01 and PART 02 on the topic of MARKER RENDERING for the Animation and Entertainment Industry. These videos talk about how and why markers are such an important medium to use in the quick paced world of the Animation and Entertainment Industry. Whether for a concept design project or for sketching on location, here's some tricks and tips.

All my best,

MAC

A KING HAS PASSED . . .

2010-05-10T11:53:00.000-07:00

The amazing and visionary Frank Frazetta has passed away at 82.

When I was around 12 years old, my parents were kind enough to see I had an aptitude and artistic talent and enrolled me in a class after school with a teacher who showed me one painting that changed the game for me, little did I know it was Frank Frazetta. Oddly enough it was the Atlantis piece which still, along with many others, inspires me today.

Thanks Frank.

New Video Posted - TONAL SKETCHING 02

2010-04-20T18:17:00.001-07:00

Here's a new video that is the second in a series on the topic of TONAL SKETCHING for Costumed Gesture Drawing purposes. This time due to the overwhelming feedback from my fellow artists and fans, I have created an audio track explaining my process. Thanks for the feedback guys and let me know what you think when you get the chance.

Best to everyone,

MAC

Calgary Fan Expo - April 24th-25th

2010-04-20T09:39:00.000-07:00

I'll be showing at the Calgary Fan Expo in Canada this weekend! It's one of my favorite show and defiantly is in such a nice area.
If you're around or in the area stop by and say hello as I will be debuting new prints!

I will be at Table F17, hope to see everyone there.

Best,

MAC

Stage 01 - Calgary

2010-04-19T17:12:00.000-07:00

It's coming . . . a rough idea.

WonderCon 2010 - Table D09

2010-03-31T10:34:00.001-07:00

Hope to see you out there . . . I'm looking forward to it, this is my first year attending.

I'll be signing and personalizing sketches, selling all new and exclusive prints and have plenty of original artwork for sale as well. Hope to see you out there.

Best,

MAC

Elephant - Character Development 01

2010-03-15T08:12:00.001-07:00

This is a character development piece that I did for a project that unfortunately didn't make it as is the case from time to time. I was looking forward to finishing him off and painting the rest of the background but never got the time as the project was put on the shelf.

HAPPY MONDAY,

MAC

New Video: INTRO to "MAC Sketchbook Sessions"

2010-03-13T08:37:00.000-08:00

MAC

New Video: "MAC Sketchbook Sessions" - 01

2010-03-13T08:31:00.000-08:00

I have just posted two new videos, one is an introduction to these "MAC Sketchbook Sessions" that I will be doing and the second video is of me flipping through my first sketchbook and talking about what was important about many of the sketches and what I am looking to accomplish along the way. This will be the 1st of many sketchbooks that I will go through and talk about my process or what I was thinking and looking for in many of the sketches.

Best,

MAC

Water + Color = Stylized Figure Painting

2010-03-06T08:28:00.000-08:00

MAC

New Video Posted - TONAL SKETCHING 01

2010-03-02T08:21:00.000-08:00

Here's a new video that is sped up showing the process of sketching tonally for Costumed Gesture Drawing purposes. This was a 5 minute sketch that was slightly elaborated on as I was talking during the process. At the end you will notice how I emphasis using the rhythmic flow of things to keep you inside of a design letting the eye recirculate throughout the drawing as to not loos your audience who's watching.

MAC

Figure Drawing - Female Nuddies Too x2!!!

2010-02-17T07:40:00.000-08:00

MAC

New Video Posted - Warming Up!

2010-02-02T10:52:00.001-08:00

Part 01:

Part 02:

MAC

Figure Drawing - Female Nuddies Too!!!

2010-01-29T11:06:00.000-08:00

Here are some recent figure drawings in a new sketchbook fresh for the start of 2010 where I can try some different things to change up the routine.

Best to everyone,

MAC

HELP THE HODGES - Animation/Art Auction

2010-01-21T08:55:00.000-08:00

Hey Guys,

I just wanted to let you know there is an amazing Animation/Artwork auction happening at - HELP THE HODGES.com -

There will be many amazing pieces of artwork through the day being released on ebay to benefit a friend of mine's son who was injured and is in a coma at the moment. Please feel free to drop by HELP THE HODGES to see the whole story and why this particular auction is of such high importance as well as high HIGH level of artwork. I was happy enough to donate a few pieces with signed books to accompany them.

http://shop.ebay.com/ncsfoundation/m.html

Best,

MAC

Tutorial Video: 01_Setting Up Video

2010-01-11T08:43:00.001-08:00

Hey Guys,

I have just completed an introductory video to how and what I teach for the purposes of allowing others not-so-near to the Industry (or Studios) to gain access to some of the practices and techniques of Costumed Gesture Drawing and how it is used in the Animation and Entertainment Industry. Let me know what you think and if you think it's helpful if you find a moment some time this week.

Best,

MAC

Avarian Friends - Owl Studies

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

MAC

Calgary Sketchbook 01

2009-12-31T10:18:00.001-08:00

HAPPY NEW YEAR . . . Bring on 2010!

MAC

Calgary Sketchbook 02

2009-12-31T10:17:00.001-08:00

HAPPY NEW YEAR . . . Bring on 2010!

MAC

Calgary Sketchbook 03

2009-12-31T10:16:00.001-08:00

HAPPY NEW YEAR my blogger brothers and sister's . . . Bring on 2010!

MAC

Quick Sketch Marker Nudies

2009-12-29T20:48:00.000-08:00

Happy Holiday's to all!

MAC

Recent 30 Second Poses

2009-12-06T21:50:00.000-08:00

Here are some recent 30 second poses that I use to help loosen up my own work as well as the student's I instruct.

MAC

Recent Tonal Demos - Coming Soon to YouTube

2009-12-05T12:25:00.000-08:00

MAC

30 Second INTRO Spot - CTN EXPO

2009-11-16T12:57:00.000-08:00

Here's a piece for the upcoming CTN Animation Expo coming up this Friday . . . it's looking like something NOT TO BE MISSED!!!

Best,

MAC

Interview with CG Advertising

2009-11-15T15:59:00.000-08:00

I was recently asked by a fantastic website to do an interview in conjunction with the release of Tinkerbell and The Lost Treasure with the folks @ http://www.cgadvertising.com/

•If you're interested you can see it here:
http://www.cgadvertising.com/pages/latest-news/interview---mark-mcdonnell.php
(It's also under the link for interviews on the right hand side of the blog.)

Best,

MAC

Tinkerbell and the Lost Treasure

2009-11-10T19:52:00.000-08:00

This is me in front of 5 or 6 beatboards I created for Lasetter to approve for the second film to be green lit.

These props are for the "Magical Guide" that acts as the Bible of sorts for the Fairy world. These were a few of the many concepts I did to represent the Magical Guide that slowly but surely depicted the importance of the 4 seasons and how detrimental they are to the Fairy World.

THIS is Halloween . . . Halloween!

2009-10-31T12:23:00.001-07:00

HAPPY ALL SAINTS DAY!!!!!

MAC

2D Artist Magazine Article - Cover

2009-10-22T08:37:00.000-07:00

I was recently contacted by the company 2D Artist/3D Artist who creates these 2 fantastic magazines respectively, and was asked to write and illustrate an article on the topic of "Dynamic and Exaggerated Posing." It was recently released and I wanted to be sure to make it available to anyone who was interested. Above is the cover image, while below is the entire article to read.

If you are interested in their amazing magazines, please click the link (or cut and paste it) to check out their site:

http://www.2dartistmag.com/

Best,

MAC

2D Artist Magazine Article

2009-10-22T08:26:00.000-07:00

3 Minute Gesture Sketches

2009-10-16T20:18:00.000-07:00

Some recent gesture sketches, on the topic of "Color Linking" and doing sketches in a series.

MAC

NOMAD Gallery Show: OCT. 17, 2009 (4-8 P.M.)

2009-10-06T08:34:00.001-07:00

I was invited to be a part of Craig Harris' Nomad Gallery Show, taking place on Oct 17, 2009 4-8pm @ The Ocean Screening Room in beautiful Santa Monica, California. I will have 4 pieces in the show, as they are the entry listed below. If you are available that Satuday, please stop by and say hello, check out some artwork and watch some short films. I'll be there with some fellow artists enjoying the view.

The address is:
The Ocean Screening Room
1401 Ocean Avenue, 1st Floor
Santa Monica, CA 90401

Best,

MAC