I wanted to share with you a few books that I keep at my drawing table that give me a little creative boost when I work on Desmond. I always flip though these books before I start inking a strip.

I have the Bone saga which collects the entire comic series in one giant volume. Jeff Smith’s story telling ability, timing and amazing line quality always leaves me in awe. He is one of the best pen and ink artists of our times!

I also have Chris Sander’s Sketchbook 2, which includes some spectacular drawings. Chris is a master of line and movement. He really pushes the envelope of structure and proportion in his characters, but keeps them fresh and lively. Plus, Chris draws some of the best pin up girls I have ever seen.

Every illustrator, cartoonist and animator should have Preston Blair’s book Cartoon Animation. This is the bible of drawing movement and characters that look alive. If you are an artist, you need to own this book.

Finally, I always keep the latest Reed Gunther comic at my desk. Shane and Chris Houghton have spun a wonderful tale about a bear-riding cowboy and the crazy adventures they get into. Chris is an amazing artistic talent, and is going to become a household name soon.

I love books. I flip through them all the time and find inspiration from the brilliant illustrations and sketches. If you are interested in these books, you can easily find them anywhere on the web. I’ll post some more books that I frequent in future blogs!