Martheus' Ninja Skills

JETTA: TALES OF THE TOSHIGAWA - RAIN AVAILABLE NOW!!!

2006-05-09T13:48:00.000-07:00

Our new graphic novel, Jetta: Tales of the Toshigawa- Rain is available today!! This is THE story that readers have waited for!!!

ABOUT THE STORY:
Destiny.

Peasants have been made into kings in it’s sway. Wars have been fought and lives have ended in it’s flames. It has haunted Shianndrea Toshigawa her entire life. The dread of destiny burns within her heart. And now it seems to have torn apart the only thing she had total faith in: her relationship with her sword brother, Kim.

Shianndrea has had enough. This time she makes the decision to be the master of her own path. Turning her back on her sensei, Gaudient, Kim, and everything the Toshigawa taught her, she looks forward to a new beginning.

However, destiny will not be denied. Just as Shianndrea makes the decision to leave behind her path in life, Terminus makes the decision to launch his Knave army in an all out assault on Gaudient, Kim, Cat, and everyone else that Shianndrea holds dear. Will the flames of destiny engulf them all?

GO TO http://www.toshigawa.com TO ORDER!!!

JETTA REVIEWS!!!!

2006-05-09T13:42:00.000-07:00

I'm going to be getting reviews in soon on our newest graphic novel, Jetta: Tales of the Toshigawa - Rain. But, before the flood gates open up, I would like to calm my nerves and post the last review that we got on our last graphic novel, JTOT - DEFIANCE.

It makes me smile.
Martheus

Jetta: Tales of the Toshigawa - Defiance (80 pages/Black & White)
By Martheus Antone Wade and Janet Wade
Review by: Chris Hansbrough

Originally I was going to review this book in a manner that could be considered comedic. I think the book deserves more than that though.

STORY:
The book Chronicles the tale of Shianndrea Toshigawa. Who has fled to America to escape her father the Emperor Terminus who is attempting to wipe out the Toshigawa clan. Throughout the course of the book we are introduced to many interesting and fun characters such as Kat; the former thug who became Shianndrea's training partner and friend. Dan, the rock star, who after almost being killed by Shianndrea falls in love with her and gives her the name Jetta. The book builds and builds its way to the climax but keeps you guessing all the way through. Will she survive?

This is where it gets tricky. The people at shooting star described it as Buffy the Vampire Slayer with ninjas. I describe it in a different way. Well done. Is it the greatest story in the world? No. But you know what? It works. And with the style of the book it works even better. At no point in the book was I ever bored. Whether it was the fresh and interesting characters or the funny jokes every now and then it was a great read from start to finish. There were a couple points where the dialogue felt a little forced but they were few and far between.

Having a strong female character helps too. I've always been a fan of strong female characters and Shianndrea Toshigawa fulfils all those requirements as the rebellious beauty and central character of the story. Another important aspect of the book is the well-developed supporting cast that consisted of some very fun and interesting characters. From Gaudient the Master and protector of Shianndrea to Kat, the thug turned friend, every character feels rich and is well developed in the story.

RATING: 8.5/10

ART:
I think I have to preclude this by saying that normally I despise the "American manga" style art. Notice how I use the word normally because this book is absolutely gorgeous. If I had to compare it to any artist going I would consider the work of Martheus Wade to be something akin to Mike Turner if Mike could actually put meat on a woman. Yes I do absolutely love not just the look of this book but the way it uses style to it's advantage in many places. A scene that would normally be somewhat boring can be made entertaining when you can actually see the emotion on the characters face and an action scene can be better when the art works for it. The first real big fight about half way into the book shows exactly what I mean by that with some of the funniest facial expressions I've seen in a while. Not only that but Martheus shows that he has a grasp of both anatomy and true martial arts. Nothing really seems forced or fake during the hand-to-hand fight scenes. Is the art perfect? Of course not. While he shows a fantastic grasp of anatomy and perspective there are times when it seems a little off. There are 2 kisses in the book that for some reason just feel a little strange. I don't know why it is but the perspective just felt off to my eyes. The different inkers had an effect as well. You could tell the difference between Martheus' inks and Janet’s inks. They both still look fantastic and it doesn't detract at all however you can still tell the difference between the 2. When all is said and done though some of the pages I can only think to myself one thing "This is what Mike Turner wishes he could be."

Rating: 8/10

Overall: 8.25/10

This was a fantastic book that will keep you guessing right up until the end. Will Shianndrea survive? Find out by ordering Jetta: Tales of the Toshigawa - Defiance today.

Anizona Con

2006-04-21T14:26:00.000-07:00

I have an excuse for not posting.
It's convention season!. Which means I won't be around a lot because I will be at different comic book conventions trying to turn new readers on to my book. I love conventions because you get to talk directly to the people that read your book. Some love you for it while others bring tomatoes to throw. Either way, you have to suck it up and keep on trucking to the next one. About this time last year, I was bumming because I thought that my book was not doing well. My first con of the year last year was not a very good experience and my signings in my home town were not going very well.

(Sidenote: If you are a comic books artist or creator and you are doing a signing somewhere, remember to promote the damn thing yourself.)

Anyway, it wasn't until San Diego con in July that I actually saw how the book was catching on outside of my little bubble in Memphis. That got me hyped for this new book that will be out in May.

(Sidenote 2: If you have not checked out the book, shame on you. This is the perfect opportunity to read it as JETTA: TALES OF THE TOSHIGAWA - RAIN will be out soon. PICK IT UP!!! PICK IT UP I TELL YA!!!)

I'm glad that I didn't just stick around here this time for Con season this year. I have been trying to expand my convention horizons a bit. My first con of the year, MIDSOUTH CON, went surprisingly well. Just when I thought that Memphis had no love for me, convention goers prove me wrong. Thanks for coming out.

Which leads me to my second con of the year, ANIZONA CON 2006. I have to say, I did not know how the attendees would like my art. I love manga and anime as you can see in my art. But I have had some wired brushes with manga purists who hated what I was doing. But at Anizona I was embraced as the manga fan that I am and I loved it. I loved seeing the cosplayers and I voice actors that portrayed some of my favorite characters on the big (or small) screen. The best part is that I made a ton of new readers. After all, that is what it is all about for me. I want people to read the book!!! I have tons o pictures on my message board (www.toshigawa.co) so hop over and take a look.

Next Convention stop: Superman Celebration.
That reminds me, I need to start working on my Supergirl tribute!!

Now for everyone's favorite...
Jean Claude Van Damn!!!!!

(Sidenote 4: Cue the Muppet Show music.)

ROLLER COASTER MARCH!!

2006-03-28T11:33:00.000-08:00

This month has been a roller coaster of emotions concerning my book.

First things first: Shooting Star is no longer publishing Jetta: Tales of the Toshigawa.

Yeah. That one is a big one. Well... sort of. We parted on good terms so it was a mutual break-up. (Break-ups still suck non-the-less). Creatively, our two houses were going our separate ways. To tell the truth, I kind of saw that happening and it wasn't a surprise when the announcement was announced. It also does not help that Diamond Distributors changed their policies concerning sales and dollar amounts for sales. That change will be and has been felt throughout the industry.

So... Where does that leave Jetta you ask?

Right back where she was before; in my hands. I've done this before. I've self published and promoted Jetta before. So, this is familiar territory. While I will miss the team effort of being with Shooting Star (they are a great bunch of guys), I'm not afraid to do what I have to do, which is pull up my sleeves and start pushing again.

Jetta: Tales of the Toshigawa - Rain is slated to be available in May. I'm still excited because I feel this is our best work yet!Wish me luck!

Con season is off and running and if Mid-South Con is any indication as to how the rest of the cons will be, then this stands to be a banner year for our little ninja girl.

We had a lot of fun this weekend! Our panels went over well as I think I might have picked up a few new readers. More importantly, I got a chance to support the creative talent that is right here in our fair city. My wife and Penny Register Shaw (one of our business partners in a new company called Delicious Elixir) had a successful panel about strong women in comics. That was really good to see my wife step from the shadows and into the lime light for a change. I even got an award for first runner-up for the Darrell Award for outstanding science fiction in the south. All in all it was a very successful con for us.
Next up: Anizona! If you are in the Phoenix area, come out to see us at Anizona Con April 14-16, 2006.

Con-Sequential will be huge!!!
I guess it's safe to announce now!! Welcome to the home of the Mid-SouthÂs Premiercomic bookk Convention!

What is Con-Sequential?
Like any normal comic convention we have some great artist guests:

Mike Norton (G.I. Joe, Voltron, Teen Titans Go!)
Steve Stanley (Batman, Star Trek, Spiderman)
Greg Cravens (The Buckets)
Adam Shaw (Bloodstream, Dead in Memphis)
Dave Beaty (Bushi Tales, Stargodz, Captain Value)
Lin Workman (Bushi Tales, Stargodz)
Martheus Antone Wade (Jetta: Tales of the Toshigawa)
Kevin L. Williams (Muley the Mule)
More guests to be announcedÂ

Unlike most normal comic conventions all of our artist guests will be providing some great Âhands onÂ classes for aspiring artists and comic creators. By attending the Cartooniversity program classes you will have an opportunity to complete a Sequential Storytelling Certificate. You can attend classes in Writing, Cartooning, Figure Drawing, Painting, Storyboards, Penciling, Inking, Coloring and everything that will help aspiring and professional artists alike need to know. Please visit the Programming section of the website for a list of classes and more information. Be sure to register early since spaces will be limited for these great classes.

We will also be hosting the first ever Con-Sequential art show. This show will be open to the general public and will showcase original comic art produced by our esteemed guests and members of the Mid-South Cartoonist Association.
Please visit www.Con-Sequential.com for more exciting announcements in the coming weeks.

If you have supported Jetta: Tales of the Toshigawa I would like to also say thanks!
You guys haven't seen nothing yet!!

And now for my favorite subject:
Jean Claude Van Damn!!!

Free Web Comic!!

2006-02-24T11:19:00.000-08:00

As you probably know, I publish a comic book called Jetta: Tales of the Toshigawa©. However, what you don't know is that I also publish a free web comic that deals with the same characters on my web site.

JETTA: TALES OF THE TOSHIGAWA is the futuristic story of war between the Toshigawa clan and the evil Knave all seen through the eyes of Shianndrea Toshigawa, the "chosen one". However for the web site, I have free small stories that relate to the main comics that are in stores. This helps to fill the gaps between my graphic novels as well as offer more information into he lives of the characters. You can read about the warriors and heroes on both sides of this epic war of good and evil. Take a second to read them here. http://www.toshigawa.com

Here is a rundown of what you will find there.

JETTA: THE FIRST TIME
takes a close look at the relationship of Shianndrea Toshigawa© (the main character) and her sword brother (KIM) as they go from being friends to much more for the first time. This one is for the love birds out there.

STYX
This is a small story that weaves directly between The graphic novels "Jetta: Last Chances" and "Jetta: Defiance"that can be purchased at your local comic book store. Written by Janet Wade with art and plot by Martheus Wade, this story follows Shianndrea Toshigawa, her best friend Turra Shibata and her master Gaudient© as they journey to their new home in America.

SECURITY
For all you blood lovers, this one is for you.
If you like the evil character Terminus, this one is for you.
Written by Jay Davis and illustrated by Stanley Weaver Jr, this story finds Terminus smack in the middle of a gang of ninja assassins. Check it out on our main site at www.toshigawa.com

BLACKSHEEP
I have to say that this is one of our favorites! Illustrated by Alex Zemke (www.dirtylittletees.com) and written by Martheus Wade, this story is sure to heat up the winter as the renegade ninja TURRA SHIBATA© takes center stage.

Log on to www.toshigawa.com to read the free story!!!

Let me know what you think.

WOLFS RAIN - HEAVEN'S NOT ENOUGH

2006-02-21T09:07:00.000-08:00

There are few songs that I have come across that symbolizes a state of mind. They lock your life at a specific moment and never let you forget that space in time. Never have I encountered a song that symbolizes an entire life until now.

This song (by Yoko Kanno performed by Steve Conte for the anime Wolfs Rain) does just that. It symbolizes an entire life that only leads you to more questions.

If you have ever wanted to accomplish something so badly but you seem to fall just short.
Or, if you have known loss but you have kept striving forward and you really don't know why.
If your life is more than just the clothes on your back or how much "bling" you have around your neck.

then this song is for you.

This is what music should be.

Performer: Steve Conte
Composer: Yoko Kanno (w00t!~)
Title: Heaven's Not Enough

Heaven's not enough
if when you get there...
just another blue
and heaven's not enough
you think you've found it
and it loses you

you've thought of all there is
but not enough
and it loses you in a cloud

"there" most everything is nothin'
that it seems
"where" you see the things you only wanna see

I'd fly away
to a higher plane
to say words I resist
to float away
to sigh
to breathe.... forget

and heaven's not enough
if when I'm there I don't remember you
and heaven does enough
you think you know it
and it uses you

I saw so many things
but like a dream
always losing me in a cloud

cause I couldn't cry
cause I turned away
couldn't see the score
didn't know the pain
of leaving yesterday really far behind
in another life
in another dream
by a different name
gave it all away
for a memory
and a quiet lie
and I felt the face
of a cold tonight
still don't know the score
but I know the pain
of leaving everything really far behind
and if I could cry
and if I could live what truth I did then take me there
heaven goodbye

STATE OF THE INDUSTRY

2006-02-10T10:51:00.000-08:00

I was reading a discussion about comic books moving toward online sells and downloadable files and I had to add my two cents. I have posted the discussion with responses

Downloading Comics: Uncompensated Downloading

Great parallels will probably be drawn in the future between the music industry and the comic book industry with regard to uncompensated downloading. The music industry ignored what was happening with its product until it became a societal norm to swap music and therefore a habit impossible to change. The comic book industry seems to be doing the same with the torrent of its material being digitized and exchanged weekly. Lawsuits may be filed by various publishers sooner or later, but those will not stop people from continuing. Unlike the music industry that has dealt with bootlegging for decades, the comic book industry has never ever had to deal with something like this. This can not excuse ignoring the increase in uncompensated downloading. Unlike the overblown nonsense of the music industry, if uncompensated downlaoding is left unchecked in the comic book industry, it has an actual chance of bringing it down.

Why? Because the comic book industry does not come close to reaching the revenue levels of other media industries. Consider that when Infinite Crisis from DC nearly became a million dollar book (link), it was noticeable and record breaking. To the music and movie industries, a million dollars revenue on one offering is practically routine and uninspiring. Therefore most elements of the comic book industry are small businesses. While Marvel and DC dominate the industry, the heart, the growth, and the creative center is small publishers and enthusiast-owned retail outlets. The slightest reduction in revenue would be immediately felt.

Despite the industry's inexperience with bootlegging, it must come to terms with what is happening. While the idea of downloading comics is a good idea, all the publishers and retailers will have to cooperate, which seems nearly impossible. An iTunes for comics could be a business concept to follow. Ironically, this will work for some of the very reasons that make the industry vulnerable. Most comic book consumers are enthusiasts and appreciate the efforts of publishers, creative talents, and the small business owners. That is why these consumers are called fans, and they are willing to pay for a good product. However, even they have limits. Whether the comic book industry supports it or not, with increases in average comic book prices, downloading comics will invariably become an option. So, the comic book industry better learn to support it. The faster it embraces the idea, the better chance it has at setting the rules.

Comment: Martheus Wade

Interesting.
I will have to agree with you. It is time for some changes to take place. I think that the new media, which make it easier for small guys to publish, are not being utilized at the large DC or MARVEL levels. If they embraced the idea, others would follow.
I would like to know what you think about Diamond tho'.

Answer: Comic Books Commentary

Hi Martheus,
Thanks for visiting the site and posting a comment.
You're right to bring up Diamond. I don't think anyone has the power to create one uniform format and system for online comics except for Diamond. Their position as the only distributor of comics gives them the advantage of having everyone's ear. If they were smart, they could take that power and push the industry into a new direction. It would be tricky, but I believe only they could do it. Of course Diamond is a distributor and not an innovator, certainly not in the world of computing. So it would be a great effort on its part and hopefully one not undertaken haphazardly.

What do you think?

Response: Martheus Wade

Thanks.
I'm glad that someone is taking the time to look at this from a perspective that would allow growth in the comic book industry. As an independent comic book creator, I find that I have a different view on the industry sometimes than that of others. Most people (bigger names in the industry) do not like the fact of using the net and other similar methods to promote or publish a book. This is because:

1) In their eyes, the medium of comic books (printed) would be lost. That is a key factor in many arguments for and against such a move.
2) The creation of entities that print comics digitally and on demand via the internet will allow for more competition for the dollars of mainstream books.

Bringing to light the importance of the comic book industry to grow towards this new source of media will allow the industry to grow. But that growth would be at the expense of major dollars from the big guns of the industry.

I for one have a love hate relationship with Diamond. As you said, they alone hold the key to the industries growth in whatever way they deem fit. However, certain institutions that they are putting into place to keep smaller books out of distribution ( thus keeping the industry from growth ) are contrary to the important roll that they should be playing in the greater game of comic books.

Bottom line:
Until the comic book industry can come together instead of continuously working against itself, growth (in any form) will be impossible.

Martheus Wade

Non-creativity in the city AND KICKING PEOPLE IN THE HEAD!

2006-02-07T07:35:00.000-08:00

I have 2 things t talk about today.
First up: Bass Pro Shop is taking over the Pyramid.

Well...
We don't really know if that is the case yet but it looks like that may happen.

If you don't know, I live in Memphis, Tn. I know that most all city's have something to complain about. But this city is a trip. I swear. We have crime and underhanded politics that would give New York a run for it's money. The number one reason I think it is the way it is here is because of the lack of motivation to change. The city wants to be big time. There's a trolley here and the FedEx Forum. We have an NBA team. All of that is well and good. But, if you look deep down, The city is just small time at heart and all ways will be because of the way people in power think.

We have the Pyramid. A beautiful building that is a monument for the city. (Brief history: Memphis in Egypt used to sit on the Nile. Memphis in TN sits on the MISS. River. Egypt = Pyramid. Memphis Tn has a Pyramid.)

This could be pretty deep. It could be a place for culture. It could be a place to bring a little modern thought in the lives of the people here who crave something different. Instead, Bass Pro Shop ( a sporting goods store ) will most likely take over. No art. No culture. Only hunting and fishing.

I don't have anything against hunting, fishing or outdoorsmen. I don't have anything against Bass Pro Shop. Actually it's a pretty handy store. But, this is an opportunity to change the way Memphians see ourselves and the rest of the country sees us. But that's where the old thinking shines through. Leaving everyone else here that craves something new, different and potentially uplifting for the city stuck in our usual rut.

None creativity will kill a city.

Oh well. What can you say?

Alright. On to something happier; KICKING PEOPLE IN THE HEAD!!!
It is official. TONY JAA is the deadliest man in martial arts movies. I became a fan of him in Ong Bak. (If you haven't seen this movie, GRAB IT!!!) Last night I got to catch some of his newest movie TOM YUM GOONG. This movie's action is the BEEZ NEEZ I tell ya. Since the dvd skipped around and crap, I didn't get to see all the movie. But I got to see the action. Tony Jaa must pay his stunt men overtime because he was killing them.

For your enjoyment, I have put a small short here. Take a look.
I'm sure you will enjoy!!!!

Lady Ninja

2006-01-31T15:18:00.000-08:00

Alright.
So, my character is a female ninja and over the Christmas holiday I received a free 2 month membership at netflix. I'm browsing through the movies and I see a movie called Kunoichi: Lady Ninja (1998).

Here is the description.

Trained as assassins and skilled in sorcery, evil lord Akinari Katou's "7 Spears" dominate the Aizu prefecture and take its most beautiful young women as concubines. Years later, their progeny -- seven daughters, led by Yuko Moriyama -- seek out the sword-master Jubei Yagyuu to help them discover their own power and exact revenge on Katou and his minions.

Cool!
So I rent it and my wife and I are all set to sit down a be engulfed in ninja action.
What we got was an action movie that is more closer to a comedy than action. Throw in the fact that almost all the women had sexual powers and you have this movie. I couldn't believe how bad this was. It was so bad that I actually started to like it.

For instance, how can you not like a ninja who when she gets... well... Excited, she shoots a big energy blast out of her face that blows off peoples fingers. Or, who can't resist the lovable toad-like warrior that can rip his own eyes out of their sockets and grow another version of himself. Don't forget about the ninja woman who can absorb any energy between her legs and shoot it out of her mouth. How can you not love these characters. I admit, I did enjoy the "nipple shockwave," but oh man this film is bad.

Wait... This just in. There are more movies in this series. I've got to find them.

Holy crap!! Watching this movie made me feel like I smoked a dooby while standing on my head and reciting the Greek alphabet.

If you've seen this movie, you gotta comment.

BACK!!!

2006-01-23T14:25:00.000-08:00

I have been so busy with Jetta that I have neglected my blog!! Not like anyone cares or anything. I'm just saying.
Anyway, Like I was saying, I have been busy with Jetta: Tales of the Toshigawa- Rain, the next installment in the Jetta graphic novel series. I am excited about this one. This is the story that I have been wanting to tell for so long. The first 2 volumes all set up this one as Jetta hits a turn in all of her relationships. Some very important allies turn enemies (sort of). And two former friends come face to face for an epic collision of fists and feet. I can't wait!!!!

I'm almost finished with it and I hope that it will be on shelves before San Diego Con. I'm sure it will be on sale this summer. Keep your eyes open for it.

Here is a shot of the tentative cover. Enjoy!!!!

SUCH A NERD!

2006-01-04T10:22:00.000-08:00

You know what the highlight of my Christmas was?
Getting toys!! I'm 30 years old and I had all the excitement of a child on Christmas eve when I opened my wife's gift of Star Wars Toys!!!

This completed my collection. For Now!!! HAHAHAHA!
Ahem...
I'm back. Anyway. That was really cool considering that these were all of her collection and she gave it to me. I was really reluctant to take them. But once I started placing them with mine, I knew that my journey was complete.

I also got a cool gift from Cliff and Micah Riley.
This is a custom JETTA Action figure. Cool!! Now I can have something to display at cons when I set up.
Take a look.

A PARTING GIFT FOR THE NEW YEAR!!

2005-12-22T09:02:00.000-08:00

There is a lot about me that has changed in my short 30 years of life. But one thing has always remained. That is my love of the martial arts. I love the martial arts. Along with drawing comics, martial arts is right up there. So when I found this funny little gem I had to share it with everyone. (Or all 3 people that read this blog. However you want o look at it.)

If you visited my message board, you saw me write a little thing about one of my favorite 80's martial arts movies, Ninja 3 the Domination.

Now, this was not the best movie in the world. Actually, it's rather funny. But, it was a fun movie that first taught me how sexy a scantily clad ninja woman could be. (Hmm. Maybe that's where the idea.... nahhh!) The actress Lucinda dickey went on to be in such great movies as Breakin' 1 and 2.

Which brings me to my next point.
One of my favorite martial artists from the 80-90's was Jean Claude VanDamn. I look back on that and I ask myself why, but nevertheless, he was. I first saw him in NO RETREAT. NO SURRENDER (which is classic cheesiness in all it's 80's glory) and followed by such hits as KICKBOXER, BLOODSPORT, BLACK EAGLE... the list goes on and on.

So, here is my parting gift to you for the new year.
But first a question:

WHAT DOES NINJA 3 THE DOMINATION AND KICKBOXER THE MOVIE HAVE IN COMMON?
Jean Claude Van Dam and Lucinda dickey both in Breakin' the movie TOGETHER!!!!

That's right! Here is the connection in photographic proof. The VAN DAMINATOR is in the background showing off his killer movies and.... who is that in the foreground about to take the center stage in a hip-hop dance off??
LUCINDA "The ninja"!!!! The woman who played the evil ninja in NINJA 3 THE DOMINATION. If that's not enough, check out some of Jean Claude's awesome dance moves.

MERRY CHRISTMAS EVERYONE!

Still at work!!

2005-12-19T12:29:00.000-08:00

I'm supposed to have 2 weeks off. (Notice the word "supposed".)
I was really looking forward to having the 2 weeks because this is the only time the entire year that I get to take a vacation and do nothing at all. Well... I do get to work on comic book stuff. But for me that's not working. That's relaxing.

Anyway, a big project (that was supposed to be to the design agency I work for in November) reared it's ugly head last Friday. This is a huge book that , at the minimum, would take a few weeks to plan. I have 2 days to design it and less time to get it approved. Guess when they need it. January 9th. So there you have it. My vacation is gone. To make matters worse, I'm still sitting here waiting to get info from them to begin work.

Needless to say, I hate this client. I hate them because they have no concept of what a schedule is. As long as one person is making everything work (usually me) they could care less. But, I bet they are going to take vacations and get all the rest that they need in order to make my life a creative disaster. The bad part about this is that the client is a church.

Makes me want to pick up the key board to my computer and begin to flip tha' hell out.

Well....
I'M FLIPPIN' THA' HELL OUT!!!!!

Sorry about that.

New Web Story is up!

2005-12-13T14:18:00.000-08:00

If you have never gone over to my main site at TOSHIGAWA.COM, you probably have never read our free web comics.

In addition to the Jetta: Tales of the Toshigawa graphic novels that you can buy in stores and online, I publish free web comics on my web site that delve deeper into the world of Jetta. These comics usually have guest writers and artist that give their take on our universe of comics. This way, if you like a character or want to find out more info, chances are that you will find a story for you.

Well, we have a new one up and running.

For all you blood lovers, this one is for you. If you like the character Terminus, this one is for you. Written by Jay Davis and illustrated by Stanley Weaver Jr, this story finds Terminus smack in the middle of a gang on ninja assassins. Check it out on our main site at www.toshigawa.com .

COLD

2005-12-07T07:14:00.000-08:00

I'm sick.
I have to finally admit it.
I have a cold.
I hate being sick. It takes so long for me to completely get rid of it and it knocks me out of commission for days. And I blame it all on one person.

True Story.

A few years ago, I went up to Animax ( a local anime video store ) to grab some videos and say hello to my friend Julie. Little did I know that Julie was sick. She had some sort of "Super Cold" and was still at work. I asked was she alright and she replied, (with coughs and chokes)"Yeah. I'm great." Anyway, I get back to my dorm room and the Julie Sickness took me over. I missed 3 days of class trying to kick the cold to the curb.

Fast forward to this Monday.

On my lunch break, I went up to Animax to see what was new. To my surprise, Julie was there. And she was sick. "Are you alright?", I asked. "Sure. It's just a sinus problem. I'm great." Well, I get home and I have a scratchy throat and I feel the "Super Cold" all over again. I went to sleep last night at 7:15pm. And I slept the whole night. The bad part about it is I can't take off for another 2 weeks. I will just have to deal with it in my office.

JULIE SICKNESS STRIKES AGAIN!!!!

"She smiles. But she is deadly. deadly I tell you."

Anyway...
I hope Janet, my wife, doesn't get it from me. When Julie Sickness mutates into Janteitus, it will come back to me twice as strong. Dog and Cats will sleep together and all hell will break loose.

LIGHTSABER COMBAT

2005-11-29T14:56:00.000-08:00

I'm going to take a break now that the end of the day is near and give you a little insite on how much of a nerd I am. Lately I have been studing Star wars history. (Yes. Star Wars history.) Anyway, being a martial artist, what I found that intrested me the most was Lightsaber combat and the detail that the Star Wars universe went into to describe theses imaginary forms of sword play. I did a bit of research and found the following information.

I am such a geek!!

Lightsaber combat is the fictional style of lightsaber fighting used by Jedi and Sith in the Star Wars franchise. The details of the saber styles are never mentioned directly in the released Star Wars films, but they are explored in novelizations as well as expanded universe sources such as the novels, magazines, comic books, the Star Wars Role-playing Game and "Visual Dictionaries." The stage combat used in the films are a combination of Kendo, Iaido, and occidental sword work such as fencing.

Each Jedi chooses the style of lightsaber combat that best suits him or her. For example, Master Yoda uses the Ataru form to compensate for his lack of reach and height, as well as to take advantage of his nearly limitless amount of force power; Mace Windu uses Vaapad to tap into his anger and employ it constructively (albeit without giving himself over to the dark side); Count Dooku's practice of the Makashi form fits first of all his intention to frequently engage in lightsaber-to-lightsaber combat and second his emphasis on class and elegance as well as precision. The Jedi Exile was an expert in many of these forms but never relied on just one. In the game, the Masters remark that he masters their forms amazingly quickly, as if he had studied them for years.

Form I: Shii-Cho
Younglings, the Jedi initiate rank, first learn Form I before they begin a Padawan apprenticeship with a Jedi Master. Younglings are taught Shii-Cho first because of its simplicity and versatility. In Star Wars Episode II: Attack of the Clones, the Younglings that can be seen being taught by Yoda to deflect light plasma shots are in the beginning stages of Form I. It is probably based in basic fighting techniques from Kendo.

Form II: Makashi
After Form I's proliferation as a saber combat technique, Form II came about as a means of lightsaber-to-lightsaber combat. It is described as being very elegant, powerful, and requiring extreme precision, allowing the user to attack and defend with minimal effort, while his opponent tires himself out. The form relies on parries, thrusts, and small, precise cuts—as opposed to the blocking and slashing of the other forms. The blade manipulation required for this form is very refined and requires much focus, but the results are extremely potent. However, as ranged weapons such as blasters come into play, or more than one opponent is present, the advantages of this form become obsolete.

Form III : Soresu
Form III, the most defensive of all of the forms, was developed to counteract the advancing blaster technology throughout the galaxy. Jedi opponents now mostly wielded blasters. The form utilizes motions occurring very close to the body to achieve near-total protection, efficiently expending as little energy as possible to execute these moves. This technique exposes as little body target zone open areas as is possible, making a well-trained practitioner nearly invincible. It borrows movements from Kendo, Wushu and Fencing, making it a very beautiful and graceful form.

Form IV: Ataru
The master practitioners of Form IV make extensive use of acrobatic maneuvers often thought not physically possible by using the Force to guide their motion. It is quite similar to the martial art, wushu. It is very acrobatic and even more so with the use of the force, and very articulate when slowed down. Majority of kungfu sword techiques are displayed through this form of Ataru, and may have been incorporated in to this style by the eariler practitioners.

Form V: Shien / Djem So
The name of the Fifth Form of lightsaber combat varies in different sources. According to Star Wars: Knights of the Old Republic 2: The Sith Lords, Shien is the Fifth Form. Revenge of the Sith Novelization stated clearly that Shien and Djem So are two different styles, and Anakin Skywalker mastered them both. By comparison, Djem So demonstrated a even higher level of physical strength and aggressive moves. So it is believed that Shien and Djem So both fall under the catergory of Form V, much like Juyo and Vaapad in Form VII, with Shien better at dealing with blaster bolts and Djem So better at blade-to-blade combat. It can be described as a mix of medieval swordmanship and kendo.

Form VI: Niman
The Form VI was the standard style at and around the time period of the Clone Wars and the Great Jedi Purge. This combat discipline is often called the "Diplomat's Form." One can see this in Star Wars Episode II: Attack of the Clones when many of the saber-wielders on Geonosis are killed. In fact, all of the Jedi using Form VI were killed at the Battle of Geonosis, including the Form VI practitioner Coleman Trebor, whose technique could not defend against most of Jango Fett's masterfully placed blaster shots.

Form VII: Juyo / Vaapad
Form VII has been an oddity for millennia. It was modified by Jedi Master Mace Windu, who used it to create his Vaapad fighting style. The most challenging and demanding of all forms, Form VII requires intense focus, high levels of skill, and mastery of other forms. Form VII is without question the rarest form, and only three Jedi have ever mastered Vaapad fully: Mace Windu, Depa Billaba, and Sora Bulq, who instructed Quinlan Vos in a few of its basics. It is speculated that Darth Sidious trained Darth Maul in a variation of Form VII combat. Sora Bulq helped Windu develop Vaapad, but Bulq and Mace's Padawan, Billaba, proved too weak to master the flow of the light and dark sides, and fell to the dark side. In this way, Vaapad mastered them. Many believed Plo Koon could master Form VII, but he believed that it was too dangerous so he took on Form V instead. In KOTOR II, the Jedi Exile can learn Juyo from Jedi Master Kavar, but only if the Exile is a Guardian, Weapon Master, or Marauder.

Shadow Con

2005-11-21T10:37:00.000-08:00

Not really much to say. I will be going to Shadow Con this year. I think it's January 6-7. I guess I should know that at least. I am excited to be there. I hope that I have some people stop buy the table. Fantasy cons have been hard to sell comics at. I don't know why. Well, I'll take that back. I have only set up at one and it was hard to sell comics there unless they were vintage comics (old superman/ batman etc.) I do sell a lot of shirts and posters tho'. Seems most of the people attending are more into those than actual comic books.

The cool part about it is that I am a artist guest so I get to illustrated a poster for the con along with the other guests. So here is my rendition of the Shadow Con Warrior Woman.

Enjoy.

...and the revisions continue.

2005-11-18T13:12:00.000-08:00

I'm still doing revisions to the art work for Jetta: Tales of the Toshigawa - Rain. I am really pleased with the way the art as a whole is coming out. I think it's really action packed and emotional. This story really defines who Jetta is and will be for a long time to come. I for one am excited to see what everyone thinks. "Soon", I keep telling myself. "Very soon."

I am finding it hard to promote the book and draw more attention to my side of the fence when it comes to comics. The most logical way is to promote your web site. Thus, you promote your comic book. That's true. But if you are not Batman, Superman, or Spiderman, how do you get the average passer-byer to stick by the site?

Advertising itself will always be the big question in any promotion. It almost takes a team to strategically place advertisement correctly so that the product gets the biggest bang for the buck.

So...
How do I get my bang?

That is the question.

I know one thing is for sure. Independent companies won't be getting any help any time soon, that's for sure.

Battle Ground STARBUCKS!!

2005-11-16T08:09:00.000-08:00

I'm at starbucks this morning waiting to get my coffee and this guy is staring at me. So, being the nice person I am, I gave him a nod of my head to say hello. All of a sudden the guy stars yelling at me saying, "what you want, man? I aint botherin' you." So, I calmly reply, " I was just saying hello. What's your problem." Then he says (still seated mind you), "knuckle city." I paused for a second and thought. " Knuckle city? Hmmm. What could he mean? I know that this guy, late 40's about 100 pounds soaking wet does not want to engage me in a friendly sparring match. I mean that's crazy. Knuckle city? You have no idea." I looked at the guy and started to laugh. Which made him even more angry but look foolish in front of the other customers. "knuckle city". I repeated. The guy eventually looked away as the manager scolded him for the outburst. The guy behind the bar informed me that the "Starbucks battler" was a homeless guy that came in to get warm.

I grabbed my coffee and headed to work.

The lesson here: Watch out for the war cry "KNUCKLE CITY!!"

Comics, the other meat.

2005-11-15T14:31:00.000-08:00

I have been busting a gut illustrating my new book, Jetta: Tales of the Toshigawa - Rain, set to be published by Shooting Star Comics next year. It's close to 100 pages of graphic novel. The killer part about it is that I have been so hard on myself with the art work that I have been redrawing somethings as I still tread forward. Ah well. It turns out better the 2nd or 4th time or so. I have also been illustrating a direct to online book featuring the Jetta cast. I was trying to have this one finished before I go to Shadow Con in January, but I don't know. That book is a regular pager (24 pages) but it still is Jetta and I have to have the best art I can on it.

Aside from that, it has been a busy year for me in comics. Jetta: Tales of the Toshigawa - Defiance came out in May of this year. San Diego con hit in July. I was interviewed for a documentary in August. Began art work and finished the script for Jetta: Tales of the Toshigawa - Rain. Republished Jetta: Tales of the Toshigawa - Last Chances. Completed 4 pin-ups for Approbation Comics. Completed a 4 page kick-off story for Chaos Campus (Approbation Comics).

And I'm still going. I hope I can keep up the pace. As long as the work is there, I'm there.

Comics.
Ah. Ya gotta love it.
I do.

Better Days

2005-11-11T09:26:00.000-08:00

You ever have one of those days where it starts out great. You feel good in the morning. You feel productive and alive. You can take over the world. I had a morning like that. I shot into work this morning. Checked my emails. Surfed the net a bit before the work day started. And called a meeting with the other designer. I felt great.

Then, my boss walked in and derailed it for me.

Turns out that I had to leave yesterday around noon and was miss informed about the status of a job that was due to be delivered. Dispite my attempts to make sure delivery of "said job" went smoothly, things did not. The printer did not deliver on time. No one called me with any problems. and all hell broke loose. Of course it's my fault when I get to work this morning. Despite the fact that I had no idea the printer was having problems. (The last time I spoke to them, they where about to deliver). Despite the fact that I basicly designed, got approved, and negotiated price on "said job". Despite the world of crap that I have to deal with. Despite the fact that I am the first one here and the last one to leave. I am the problem. It's my fault.

I've seen better days.

Like I said before:
Born at the wrong time. In the wrong place.

Nuff' said.
Let's move on.

What scares me.

2005-11-10T09:30:00.000-08:00

Last night I saw what scares me.
No it's not the boogy man. It's a religious fanatic. (It doesn't matter. Pick a religion.) I consider myself a spiritual person. I believe in God and Jesus. I believe in heaven and the bible. But, I saw something last night that made me shutter.

I watched the reality show "Trading Spouses" on Fox last night. I know what you are saying. "Reality television?" I hate it too. But this show was different. There was a lady on it that was a deep religious fanatic. Without going into too much detail (after all, it is a reality TV show), the woman thought everyone was evil and demons and even began to throw up because she believed the family that she was "visiting" had the devil present in it because they believed in nature. If that wasn't enough, she threw a tantrum in her own home when she found out that her family (who had to spend a week with the other family's mother) did not share her "anger".

I'm not saying that the lady was wrong for what she believed. Who am I to say that? But to force your views on others is wrong. And the anger that she displayed at her own family for being hospitable to the "other mother" was frightening. That anger reflects the same views that make people kill others in the name of a belief.

That scares me. The inability of a people to sit down and talk about differences.

I don't know.

Maybe I'm wrong.

I have been know to be on several occasions.

Big Thighs

2005-11-09T14:51:00.000-08:00

My wife says Jetta has big thighs.

Well, she didn't say it like that. That's to put it nicely. She said ( and I quote) "she looks like a flying squirel. You know how they spread themselves and take flight." I admit. Jetta does have big thighs. But they are muscular!! She's a martial arts expert that uses her kicks to her advantage! She has to have muscular legs! So there!!!

That reminds me of the last "event" I set up at called the GOT PARK FESTIVAL. It was supposed to be a festival for the arts. Little did I know that it was only for the "fine art" crowd. Of course comic books do not fit in that same realm. Especially a character who is a tough, attractive women with... well let's just say she's well endowed. But not sleazy. She actually has more clothes on than Wonder Woman or Power Girl. (I love those chracters.) Anyway, I got so many awkward stares and mumbles thrown at me it almost gave me a complex. I have learned my lesson. If I'm not at a comic book function (convention, show, etc.) I'm not setting up shop. No hard feelings. But I just don't want to waste my time.

So. Let me clear some things up.

1. Jetta has boobs. (Covered mind you. But they are there)
2. Jetta has thighs. (She has to because she is muscular)
3. Jetta has more clothes on than Wonder Woman or Power Girl.

Now, back to mean mugging my wife to see how many more times I can get her to say i'm sorry. : )

later.

Mornings

2005-11-08T07:31:00.000-08:00

Alright.
I have picked mornings as the time that I will post because that is the time when I get to think a bit on the way to work. 2 main things were on my mind today.

So, last night my wife and I are watching a movie called Battle Royale. If you know anything about Manga or have seen the movie you know that it is very violent and was banned because of it. It's about a 9th grade class of students that are dropped off on an island an forced to battle until there is only one left. If they try to escape, the army will detonate braces around their necks which will blow up ( not unlike the running man movie). It also starred GO GO from Kill Bill. We got a kick out of it. Loved it. We thought that it was the funniest thing in the world because of the teacher. Cool movie and I highly suggest we use this tactic in our school system. (Just kidding. I don't need anyone writing me thinking I'm serious.)

Another thing I was thinking about this morning was SAN DIEGO.
I don't know. San Diego has been on my nind a lot lately. Maybe because I have a secret hate for Memphis (where i currently live). Or because I have such fun at comic con each year. I don't know. But when all else fails, San Diego can always put a smile on my face. The palm trees. The people. The appreciation for the arts. Like I said in my bio. "born in the wrong place at the wrong time."

Anyway, I have some down time here. So, back to work illustrating my next graphic novel. I can leave you with this peice o' work that I am doing for the new book tho'

talk to ya.

Welcome to my little party.

2005-11-07T12:30:00.000-08:00

Alright. So I'm getting with the times and allowing myself to be a part of this whole global village thing. I can't believe I got a blog. Not because anything is wrong with having one. I just have not seen the point.

To make a long story short, my experience with talking (or in this case, writing) in message boards or on blogs or anything like that have not been good. I am always the one ignored because I wasn't part of the circle or I was chased off the site. (Long story) So when I say that I can't believe I have a blog, I mean that it is only a matter of time before I get tired of being ignored or get bombarded with hate mail. Oh well.

I'm a comic book artist and creator of Jetta: Tales of the Toshigawa published by Shooting Star comics. The book has been said to resemble Buffy the Vampire Slayer or The Matrix but with ninjas so I'll take that complement. Most of these posts will be concerning the book. So here we go.

Also feel free to check out JETTA at www.toshigawa.com or www.shootingstarcomics.com

See you soon.