Dan Dos Santos: Amazing

I thought I’d highlight one of my favorite artists today. Okay, scratch that, this guy is my favorite artist. I’m a big fan of odd, almost abstract styles of art. Styles that really come across to you on a level where it’s like “Wow, that artist is so original and interesting.” Now that’s cool and all. That’s what I like. That’s why it’s all the more pertinent a point that Dos Santos is by far my favorite artist.

Why? Well he doesn’t create art using some crazy, unique style. He doesn’t need to—at all. That’s how talented this guy is. There’s nothing wrong with having an original style, but in Dan’s case, his “original style” is just incredible skill. He does make excellent use of color, and the luminance of his work is breathtaking, but besides that, it’s no frills art. It’s powerful, vibrant, realistic, and surreal all at the same time. He’s illustrated loads of book covers, and even done art for Magic The Gathering cards.

His art speaks for itself, and the fantastical element to the subject matter makes each piece all the more incredible to see. I admit it, 10 years down the road I would kill to have a book published with his art on the front cover, but one step at a time, right?

But don’t take my word for it; check out his work for yourself! You won’t be disappointed, I guarantee that.

http://www.dandossantos.com/gallery.htm

Blog Spotlight: Sloane Talks Shop

I’d like to take an opportunity today to highlight the blog of a friend of mine. Sure, that sounds a little lame, like I’m just sending a shout out out of favoritism or as a favor, but really that’s not the case.

The Sundance Press is not responsible for any nightmares incurred as a direct result of seeing this picture.

First of all, I put up a post everyday here. I need things to talk about! Terrible reason, but still. The truth is, the girl who runs this blog is something else. She used to live nearby (down the street from me, actually) when we were kids. We didn’t talk very often, but even back then it was like “Dang, this girl can draw.” Years later, she’s made some impact in the comic world. Her stuff is beautifully disturbed. If you don’t believe me, the page hasn’t finished loading yet, and you haven’t seen the picture embedded in this post.

She also does some writing I think (I suppose comics do involve writing; I’m no expert there), and she’s starting up screen-printing. If that takes off, I don’t know about you, but I certainly want a tee with that thing on it. It’s quality work, and it’s wildly original. If you wanna check out more of her stuff (I know you do), hop over to her blog: Sloane Talks Shop. I’m not sure how much is up there, but from her blog you can find her DeviantArt account as well as other stuff.

There’s a permanent link to the blog down in my blogroll, so if you ever lose track, take a looksy and support Sloane a few other cool little blog writers.

What do you think of the art? Don’t tell me here! Head over to Sloane’s blog and tell her yourself!