SHOW BIZ BUGS (Warners, 1957)

There is one word that succinctly sums up the look and feel of 1950s Warner Brothers cartoons: refreshing.

The snappy modern style is clean and as brash as the characters' attitudes.

Take a good look at these delightful B/Gs by Boris Gorelick, and ENJOY!

Happily Back To It!

I am happy to report my neck surgery was a smashing success. Everything is healing beautifully and I feel great.

I had a stellar post-op exam today. I'm allowed to carefully resume my regular schedule (except the gym, for now).

If all continues as is, I'll be back on the bench at the El Capitan next weekend.

So, to celebrate my speedy recovery, I am posting again!

Thanks for your messages of support.

a short break

hi gang,

I had surgery yesterday. I had a torn muscle in my neck repaired. I guess I've been training a bit too hard at the gym.

At any rate, my surgeon insists on no computer work for a few days. (I'm typing this on my iPhone in bed!)

I have my post-surgery checkup Friday and expect to pass with flying colors. Hold a good thought and hopefully I'll have lots of new artwork for you this weekend!

Dopey's Drums

The SILLY SONG sequence in SNOW WHITE is ingenious and charming. Dopey gets a couple of starring moments playing percussion. Here are the digitally recontructed backgrounds featuring his curious array of instruments. Note the incredible detail!

The bright gold cymbals and cowbells are cel overlays. (I left these intact on purpose.) Everything else is indeed background art. Imagine: duck drums, owl temple blocks, swan and squirrel cymbal holders, sleigh bells and more!

I am likely going to be away from the computer for a day or so, and unable to blog during that time. I'll return to posting ASAP. I have more delightful artwork from MGM's Tom and Jerry cartoons.

So come back again, soon, and there will be more treats from animation backgrounds!

SNOW WHITE continued

Here's a lovely background from a scene in the woods, with the old crone.

Mouse In Manhattan - Finale

Ollie Johnston 1912-2008

While this blog is about background art, on rare occasion I'll break from the established theme and format.

Today is one of those days, honoring the life and art of Ollie Johnston.

One of Disney's original "nine old men," this gentle man's herculean talent created some of animation's greatest characters and performances, as well as deeply impacting pop culture.

I had the pleasure of meeting Ollie at the El Capitan during one of our special events. He spoke onstage about creating emotion in animation. He was a kind, sweet man. He was gracious eenough to pose with me by the stage door. Meeting him remains one of the highlights of my life.

His art will be cherished forever.

Rest in Peace, Ollie.