Ashley A. Woods' Gallery

Final Fantasy 6 Terra Watercolor Commission

2011-05-08T03:38:00.001-07:00

Worked on this while at the First Aid Comics Free Comic Book Day and Grand Opening... THANKS, GLENN! =^_^=

First Aid Comics Free Comic Book Day!

2011-05-08T03:03:00.000-07:00

Saturday, May 7th was Free Comic Day and the grand opening of First Aid Comics at their new location. I, along with other artists, were invited to showcase and sell our work at the gala, too!

It was a very successful day for everyone and I was surprised and grateful to see all the people who came out to support my comic, "Millennia War". There were even people who brought their copies from home to get them signed when they heard I was there! I also managed to sell 2 watercolor commissions of Terra from Final Fantasy 6 and Shinji from Evangelion.

Thank you to everyone who made the event successful and fun.

Visit First Aid Comics at 1617 East 55th Street and pick up a copy of "Millennia War" while you're there!!! : )

Preparing for ACEN 2011...

2011-05-04T02:27:00.000-07:00

What's going on? : )

I'm preparing to debut a new character in my "Millennia War" comic..... and even cooler, I'll be cosplaying as her at this year's ACEN! I've been gathering pieces for it here and there the past few months. I just received my circle lenses yesterday. They're EOS brand in pink (I forgot the exact name for the pink)... So far, I only need 2 more items and the cosplay will be complete. MUAHAHAHAhahaha.....

I'll reveal a pic of her soon, so please look forward to it =^_^=

Other news... I just finished working on a big project and I have one other project left to do (freelance-related) before I can get back on track with my own stuff, "Agents of Sleep", plus this new project I'm beginning with a friend. OH! I've been whooping butt in the new GEARS 3 Beta, hahahaha..... Retro Lancer and Long Shot is all I need.

I hope everyone who's been following / visiting my blog has been doing well. A lot of people have been down and so have I. But I believe that if you stay consistent, continue to work hard and stay focused, things will begin to sort themselves out.

♥♥♥♥♥

Untitled

2011-04-21T00:49:00.000-07:00

Decided to do a quick sketch in Photoshop before I got back to my main work...

Evangelion's Asuka & Mari

2011-03-22T01:15:00.001-07:00

HTOD - Rei

2011-03-10T15:11:00.000-08:00

Highschool of the Dead - Takagi & Saeko

2011-02-17T14:03:00.000-08:00

Sailor Uranus & Neptune

2011-01-25T22:08:00.001-08:00

Death Note's Light Yagami & Misa Misa

2011-01-25T21:55:00.000-08:00

Cowboy Bebop Faye Valentine

2011-01-25T21:53:00.001-08:00

Cowboy Bebop Spike Spiegel

2011-01-25T21:51:00.001-08:00

Street Fighter Elena

2011-01-25T21:48:00.001-08:00

Darkstalkers' Morrigan and Lilith

2011-01-25T21:43:00.001-08:00

Onimusha 4 Soki

2011-01-25T21:40:00.001-08:00

Onimusha 4 Jubei

2011-01-25T21:36:00.001-08:00

Bleach's Orihimei

2011-01-25T21:32:00.000-08:00

street fighter 4 juri

2011-01-25T21:29:00.001-08:00

Nina - Breath of Fire II

2010-10-27T00:20:00.000-07:00

decided to revisit a part of my childhood here...

really fell in love with her face as i worked on this.

Nina - Breath of Fire

2010-10-27T00:17:00.000-07:00

a Breath of Fire piece featuring the original Nina. kinda been in the mood of old school games lately.

: )

Gunbuster 2 - Lal' C

2010-10-27T00:10:00.000-07:00

my fave character in the show... i wanna cosplay as her one day, but i fear i may be a bit too tall, hahaha....

Gunbuster 2 - NONO

2010-10-24T19:58:00.001-07:00

thanks to my friend, Arie Monroe, and my boyfriend, i'm getting back into the habit of fan art! i'm gonna try to produce one piece of fan art a day... let's see how that goes, hahaha!

it's kinda frustrating since the actual illustration looks better than the scanned version *cries*

FYI: i haven't drawn fan art since 2000... :p

Ugly Pink Coat

2010-10-24T19:54:00.000-07:00

was in a bad mood yesterday and TRIED to get back into water coloring... but just wound up with this ooglay (translation: ugly LOL) sketch : (

First Glimpse at "Agents of Sleep"

2010-09-06T21:21:00.000-07:00

I spent most of yesterday working on two of my freelance projects, one of which I'm providing pencils for J2D2's new upcoming comic, "Agents of Sleep". I'm basing my sketches off of John's concepts and Damian's script, however, they're still giving me creative freedom to do whatever I like with the overall design. Which is pretty cool!!!!

This sketch depicts the story's 15-year-old protagonist, Malody Jenkins, in her jammies... just basically looking cute. The story deals with nightmares and such and is overall pretty deep.

I think I'm gonna go ahead and further render this piece since I like it a lot :D

"Millennia War" Graphic Novel: VOL. 1 NOW AVAILABLE ONLINE!

2010-09-06T15:28:00.000-07:00

YES! =^_^=

Finally.... the moment many of us have been waiting for has touched down!!!! LOL!!!!

So what are you waiting for?!!! Go on and mosey your way to indyplanet.com to purchase your copy!!! :D

*moonwalks and throws confetti in the air*

LINK --> http://indyplanet.com/store/product_info.php?products_id=4108&osCsid=jt13alvtta7tc0tnkitts9c5q6

(I tried posting the link so that you could click on it but it's giving me some problems... I'll prolly try to fix it later. For now just copy and paste it into your browser.)

Chicago Comic Con

2010-09-04T19:54:00.000-07:00

YAY!!!!!!

"Millennia War" had another successful convention! And I even sold out of a few books, included the new graphic novel!!!! I only had about 10 copies but they all sold out fairly quickly. I even wound up selling Mike's, my boyfriend, Matt's, my mom, and my own copies!!! We were sad at first but we figured it was more important to try to get new readers with those copies.

Besides the books doing well, I also saw a bunch of my convention friends such as Phil Machi, Mike Norton, and Rodney Ramos. I also helped promote Sugar Gamers and even represented them with my girl, Martina, as we kicked a little butt in the Gears of War tournament! My old college, IADT (International Academy of Design and Technology), used my art to design their booth to attract attention and recruit new students as well as promote my own table there :D

OH! I also went to the Mafia II game release party hosted by SFX360. It was hella fun, and my friends and I drank and danced the night away. Mike and I even helped Phil start a conga line!!!! ROFLOL!!!!!!!

Overall, Comic Con was extremely fun and I owe it all to all the people who continue to support "Millennia War", especially my new little friend, Carrie. THANKS SO MUCH FOR MAKING MY WEEKEND!!!!! XOXOXOXOXOXOXOXOXO *hugs and kisses galore*

Anyhoo.... that was last month and right now...... I'm over halfway done with "Millennia War" issue #7, as well as working on other freelance projects.

More Comic Con Pics....

2010-09-04T19:23:00.000-07:00

Catching Up :D

2010-08-09T20:48:00.000-07:00

it's been a while, yeah?

a lot's been going on. i just sent the graphic novel off to the printer 2 days ago. got a freelance project to knock out the way then on to issue #7. (but i wanna start drawing #7 NOOOOOoooooow!!!!! LOL)

Chicago Comic Con is coming up Aug. 19-22 so i'm preparing for that. if you're in attendance, stop by my table!

been editing videos for Sugar Gamers, so check those out on their youtube:
http://www.youtube.com/user/Sugargamers

also, i cosplayed as Tomiko from my "Millennia War" comic at ACEN (Anime Central) back in May (shoulda posted that earlier but been busy)... i modified the helmet myself! enjoy the pics!

Millennia War @ C2E2

2010-04-28T20:25:00.000-07:00

Alright, I know I'm EXTRA late posting this but things have been hectic :p

As some of you guys may know, Mike and I spoke about "Millennia War" at the "BLACK COMIX" panel during C2E2 (Chicago Comic & Entertainment Expo) along with John Jennings, Damian Duffy, Turtel Onli, Jiba Anderson, and Stanford Carpenter Saturday, April 17th.

By Damian Duffy & John Jennings, “Black Comix” is a new book from Mark Batty Publisher, coming out in Spring 2010! Along with the other artists who participated in the panel, the Black Comix book will showcase some of my art from "Millennia War". Make sure to visit Black Comix - the Blog at blackcomixbook.com

Here's a clip of Mike and I speaking during the panel (we start about 2 min in). You can also see the rest of the panel on my youtube channel, AshleyAWoods (one word, because youtube doesn't allow spaces -_-).

Special thanks to John and Damian for inviting us to the event, Matthew for recording it, & Jabari, Aki, Lorenzo, and Keisha for the pictures.
xoxo

"Dziva Jones" 1rst Review!

2010-04-01T16:47:00.000-07:00

Yay!!!

i logged onto my facebook and to my surprise saw a link to the awesome (and hilarious) commentary about "Dziva Jones", which my friend, Aminah Armour wrote and I illustrated.

read it for yourself on Samax's blog, http://ghettomanga.blogspot.com/!!!!

thanx, max!

xoxo

Talking About "Millennia War" @ Megacon

2010-04-01T16:18:00.000-07:00

hey, hey...

took some time off the first MW graphic novel to work on "Dziva Jones" with Aminah but i'm back to my own stuff again (along with one other project for another friend). i hope you like the cover for the novel!

Megacon 2010

2010-03-25T13:05:00.000-07:00

Hey, hey!

Mike and I flew out to Orlando earlier this month for the Megacon convention to sell "Millennia War". It was really nice to get away from the last remnants of Chicago winter and feel the warmness of the Florida sun on my skin... however at night it became really chilly, just like back home.

I met some really cool artists like Brian Stelfreeze and Sanford Greene and saw my buddies Jamal Igle and Rodney Ramos roaming the aisles!

Besides selling 'Millennia War", I also debuted a comic I drew for my good friend, Aminah Armour, called, "Dziva Jones", which sold out!!! YAY!!! Cover drawn by Stanley Weaver.

Issue #6 NOW AVAILABLE!!!!

2010-01-12T03:41:00.001-08:00

YEE-HAW! (roflol)

My latest issue for the "Millennia War" series is now available on millenniawar.com & indyplanet.com!!!

The cover features the newest member of the MW fam, Taija... She appears to help out main character,Hannah, and the gang out of a tight spot, but will she stick around long enough to make their cause her own? Packed with action and big surprises, key characters begin to reveal their true roles in the major events that has come to pass. The line separating friend and foe is now being blurred and Hannah learns the hard way that the company you keep can prove fatal.

Only a handful of people have purchased and read the latest installment so far before it hit the stores and online... Those who I knew personally went out their way to call me and tell me how much they love the direction the story is going, which gets me fired up even more to keep working hard.

Order your copy today from indyplanet.com and millenniawar.com!!!!

I'm a SUGAR GAMER!!!

2009-12-17T00:40:00.000-08:00

I've joined this new all-female gamer group called, "Sugar Gamers", and even started another blog (sub-blog...?) within their blog where I talk about what I'm currently playing or looking forward to playing so if your interested in what games I like, read about it there! Even better, write back to me and tell me what games YOU like/ love/ hate (or what what game creators you'd like to hug / kick)... I wanna know! LOL!!!!

link:
http://ashleywoodsg.blogspot.com/2009_12_01_archive.html

It's That Time Again...

2009-12-11T18:09:00.001-08:00

OOH WEE!!! CHRISTMAS TIME, PEOPLE!!!!!

Due to the crappy economy, there won't be many gifts under my tree this year but I'm just glad I lived to see another year. Was that too dramatic? *shrugs*

Right now I'm still preparing the first "Millennia War" graphic novel which will also include 2 EXTRA mini comics, one of them being a MW side story called, "No Time for Uncle". Me mum wrote it while I did the art and it's a pretty funny story. Please look forward to it!

Thanx, mom! LOL

Punx of Rage Commission

2009-12-11T18:04:00.000-08:00

Some work I did for my friend, Joe, and his comic, "Punx of Rage".
Been sick a lot lately so I struggled a lil' to finish it sooner but I finally did after a few days in the bed *cries*

Taija =^.^=

2009-11-21T11:58:00.000-08:00

I'm taking some time to draw some random pieces of art in between working on the books... Created this within the past two days. It features the newest character in the "Millennia War" family, Taija. I hope you like it!!!! xoxo

MW Issue #7 Cover

2009-11-18T01:44:00.000-08:00

With issue #6 now under wraps, I've now turned my sights to working on issue #7 as well as the 'Millennia War' graphic novel consisting of the first 7 issues (#0-#6) slated for early 2010!!! OH-EM-GEE!!!! O_O

Besides having those issues in there (totaling over a whopping 180+ pages of comic art alone) there will be other goodies inside. So please look forward to it when it drops!!!

Black Age XII Pics

2009-10-16T08:49:00.000-07:00

Last weekend, Black Age XII hit Kenwood again and harder than ever! The place was packed from 9:30 til AFTER closing time @ 4:30. I met a lot of cool people and made lot's of sales with "Millennia War". I'm grateful to everyone who continues to support the series... THANK YOU!!!! ♥ ♥ ♥

Comic artist, Eric Battle at his signing in Graham Cracker comics. =^_^=

Kiss Me Comics greeting fans and selling their work.

Joe Currie and Leconte Tucker's "Punx of Rage"!!!

Laundry Detergent Man!!!

EVERYONE!!! LEND ME YOUR POWAAAAAAAAAAH!!!!!!!

2009-10-05T12:26:00.001-07:00

Hello all. (In case you didn't notice, I was having a DBZ moment during the title...)

Being an artist is fun, even therapeutic. But some days.... ART JUST GETS IN THE FUGGIN' WAY. I've been draining myself trying to release the latest issue in a timely manner and well... I can see the light at the end of the tunnel. EUREKA! *clicks heels together in the air*

Complaining really doesn't suit me so I won't get too wrapped up in telling you guys how dog tired I am - the ugly drawing above speaks for itself LOL

In the meantime, I'm preparing to update millenniawar.com soon with new character bios, Mike and I are heading to another comic event next Saturday (Black Age XII), and right after I finish MW #6 in the next week or so I'm whipping up the graphic novel containing the first 7 issues. Not to mention other lil' projects here and there I do with artist friends.

Most important... I'm looking for a steady jizzob! J-O-B!!!

I hope all is well with everyone and remember to keep forging ahead! No matter what's blocking your path to reaching the ultimate goal (obtaining your dream career, world domination, owning everything I publish :p) forge ahead nonetheless!!!! And smile the whole time!!!! LOL

(Somehow this blog turned from me venting to spreading inspirational words... interesting.)

Black Age XII Comic Event Oct. 9th & 10th

2009-10-05T12:14:00.000-07:00

Yo! If you're in the Chicago area next weekend, check out this cool event!
(I copied & pasted some info here, but you can find more information from Turtel Onli's blog, dablackage.blogspot.com

"BLACK AGE XII" Comic-Con & Costume Contest Program outline:

Oct. 9th Eric Battle will be signing works at Graham Crackers Comic Book Mega Store at 77 East Madison in Chicago. Time: Noon to 2:00pm

He will later appear in Hyde Park at the First Aid Comic Book Store located at 1459 East 53rd St, 2nd Floor. Time: 3:30pm to 5:30pm

Oct. 10th "Black Age XII" at Kenwood Academy HS located at 5015 South Blackstone on the Lake Park side of the Kenwood Academy Building. The parking lot is available for use. The #6 Bus will bring you to the door as will the Metra line.

Doors open at 9:30am until 4:30pm.
Admission $5.00 adults $3.00 Student ID ,
Kids under 11 get in free.
Costumed guests get in free.

Millennia War #6 Cover

2009-08-20T21:07:00.000-07:00

The moment everyone is waiting for is almost here!

Issue #6 will feature a few new faces, including the one gracing it's cover. Those who have been following my blog prolly remember Taija from an earlier post but she will finally make her debut next month. I'm very excited to introduce her and I know she'll be a hit among the fans. As for the other new characters, I'll leave them for the readers to discover. I don't wanna go showing everything off just yet, although those who have bought "Millennia War" from my website have received a promo flyer revealing those new people. Of course, you'll discover their roles in the overall scheme of things as the story progresses.

Look forward to it, everyone!

=^_^=

Also, down below are some of the color schemes I came up with for the flowers on the cover... With the help of my friends, the red ones were decided to be the best for this issue since we felt they reflected what happens in the story the best.

Comic Con Chicago 2009

2009-08-10T19:19:00.000-07:00

Another Comic Con has come and gone...

I am happy to say that "Millennia War" sold pretty well and I'm excited to see what people have to say about issue #5. I'm almost done with issue #6 and it's turning out to be pretty badass so I'm also looking forward to see the readers reactions when they see the surprises in store for them.

Mike and I are grateful for everyone who stopped by and supported us and we're already planning for the Comic Con next year.

Millennia War #6 pages 1-3

2009-05-21T12:30:00.000-07:00

Been really busy as of late. Trying to stay focused among all the drama these days.

Here's a sneak peek of the next issue. Nevel, one of his subordinates, and Lady Shar have an interesting conversation about Saya...

Family Night @ Mather High School

2009-04-17T14:35:00.000-07:00

Wednesday night, I was invited to host a comics workshop at Mather High School. I had a tiny group but they were very nice and attentive. I taught how to sketch the human face and figure and how to build details on top of the sketches.

Celebration! LOL

2009-03-11T14:20:00.000-07:00

In celebration of the completion of "Millennia War" issue #5, I made a sad attempt of drawing 'chibi' versions of me and Mike partying with Hannah, one of the main characters in the story. This is my first time drawing something chibi but I always like the art style so I just went for it. I'll practice more so I can get better, LOL!

Mike looks really funny.... In fact that doesn't even look like him. Looks like I drew him with a potatoe/pie/pizza head LOL!!!!! And Hannah looks deranged as if she's getting ready to bite someone O_o

=^_^=

Speaking at Hancock High School

2009-03-04T15:34:00.000-08:00

About a week or so ago I visited Hancock High School to talk to the students about me, my art, school, and pursuing their goals. I was a little nervous at first (I'm usually nervous with public speaking, haha) but it turned out ok. The kids were really nice and respectful and they even presented me with a nice gift bag in the end!

:o)

Target Hope College Tour Feb. '09

2009-03-04T14:46:00.000-08:00

Ever the busy lady, my latest adventure included me chaperoning a group of high school students for a Target Hope college tour. We traveled over east, visiting Howard University in Washington, D.C., Hampton University in Virginia, and finally North Carolina A&T. Not only did I help keep things in check, but I also served as a sort of media person, taking pictures and recording various things for the upcoming Target Hope promo video.

What is Target Hope? Well, it's a program that I joined when I was in high school... Created by Mr. Euclid Williamson, the program prepares high school students for college grade wise and mentally. There are Saturday classes in Math, History, etc. and then there are the college tours that occur about once a season... The program even exposes college students to grad schools.

Yours truly and my fellow chaperon taking a pic inside the Target Hope tour bus in D.C.

Howard University

Inside the library at Howard

Group pic at Howard

One of the buildings at Hampton University

Beyond The Frame Exhibition

2009-01-16T01:43:00.000-08:00

The latest show my comic, "Millennia War" will appear in is the Beyond The Frame: African American Comic Book Artists exhibition.

Date: January 23, 2009 - April 26, 2009
Place: Flint Institute of Arts - 1120 E. Kearsley Street, Flint MI 48503 - 1915

The show is organized by the FIA and John Jennings, Professor of Art and Design, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign. Beyond the Frame: African American Comic Book Artists presents a cross section of young and mature artists, some well established and others self-published. The exhibition explores a wide range of styles and subject matter, from artists working in the commercial genres and the emerging field of Internet "webcomics," to those whose work addresses themes of racial identity, urban life, hip-hop culture, and African American family life.

Special Thanks to Duncan Cardillo and John Jennings for inviting me to take part of this awesome show. =^_^=

Preview of issue #5

2009-01-14T18:49:00.000-08:00

Here's a page from "Millennia War" issue #5.

Shar is entering Nevel's chambers uninvited again, LOL.

You can preview more of the book on millenniawar.com

xoxo

New "Millennia War" Website!!!

2008-12-29T23:55:00.000-08:00

YAY!

It is here folks. The new and improved millenniawar.com!!!!!!
It's even complete with an online store, character bios, previews of the comics, etc.

So go visit it right away. Even go buy some books from there directly! (That's right, cut out the middle man, LOL)

Special thanks goes to the webmaster, Ashley "Noelle" K. of Karmakaze Designs.

xoxo

Let's Fight!

2008-12-19T17:55:00.000-08:00

A sketch I drew way back in January that I finally got around to rendering in December, haha... (that happens a lot)
Hannah's actually well taught in Shotokan Karate, as readers will see very soon in "Millennia War".

As I colored, I kept clicking between layers to see Hannah's face with and without the shadows to see how different she looked. I even provided before and after pics for you to see.

Hope you like it!

Sweet Hannah

2008-12-11T02:39:00.000-08:00

Been doing random sketches of the "Millennia War" characters lately. This was the very first one I did out of the bunch. I already liked the line work from the beginning and I like the colors with it even more. I just can't decide which colors I like more...

Hmmm... What do you think? O_O

=^_^=

The Video Game Expo

2008-11-30T10:28:00.000-08:00

I was a guest at this year's VGXPO (thank you, Smoke!). I nearly sold out of all my "Millennia War" comics and even helped judge a cosplay contest!

If you like, you can visit my myspace to view all the pics!!!

http://www.myspace.com/ashley_hayashi

My First Trip to Japan

2008-11-30T10:08:00.000-08:00

November has been one busy month. Much of 2008 was laid back for me and then right when the end of the year hits, it seems like everything wants to happen at one time - not that I'm complaining...

Japan was awesome. I met so many nice people and even made a few friends! One particular person, Nakamura-san, who I met on the bullet train to Kyoto was a really cool person and helped me find my way to the art show at Doshisha University. It was his first time in Kyoto, too, so we sort of discovered the way together, haha.

Another person is Aki-chan, who I met at the dinner dedicated to the art show from the previous day. She was so kind and liked all my "Millennia War" comics.

I find it interesting how you never know who you'll meet in your lifetime but when your paths do cross it's a wonderful thing (especially when you live half a world away from each other, haha!). I could go on and on about how great Japan is, but you can see for yourself from all the pics I posted on my myspace

http://www.myspace.com/ashley_hayashi

=^_^=

Millennia War #5 - preview

2008-10-28T16:35:00.001-07:00

The latest cover in the epic series...

Lotu and Rinji talk things over...

Lady Shar contemplating... a dangerous adversary she is!

Saya preparing for a surprise attack...

Saya caught in the act of taking a soldier out...

A lot of people are looking forward to the latest issue of "Millennia War" and with good reason. I'm even excited about it myself!!!

Here are a few panels from the upcoming book... ENJOY! =^_^=

Pics from the Out Of Sequence Gallery Show

2008-10-28T14:38:00.000-07:00

Hey, hey.

"Millennia War" was featured along with other art in the Out of Sequence: Underrepresented Voices in American Comics show held at the Krannert Art Museum in Champaign IL on October 23rd-25th. It was a great show and the books sold well. I met many awesome people and made a few new friends. =^_^=

Special thanks to John, Damian, Kathleen, the museum donors, and the Krannert art Museum Council. I'll be returning to the museum again, November 7th-9th, 2008 to give a talk.

In the meantime, enjoy the pics below!!!

Early pages of "Millennia War" posted on the gallery wall...

Inside the gallery...

The show, day 2

Millennia War takes part in the BLACK AGE X event

2008-10-04T17:50:00.000-07:00

Get ready for "BLACK AGE X!" Oct. 10th, 11th, & 12th, 2008 will be the 11th Annual Convention will be a scattered site event in the form of a month long group exhibition, a lecture, vending situations, signings, and a professional press conference. All free to the public. The term, "The Black Age of Comics", refers to independent creativity. This, the most independent movement in this game, welcomes all positive creative innovators and fans.

The Black Age movement was created by Turtel Onli. You may visit his blog for more info on this event and view his art at http://dablackage.blogspot.com/

Escape by Blood

2008-10-02T22:08:00.000-07:00

Issue #5 (book 6) will be soon upon us, so please look forward to it! The stuff really hits the fan in this issue! LOL

Even though the book will be done this month, it will be available in November unless indyplanet uploads it sooner.

Special thanks to Michael for creating the cool tag-line. =^_^=

Buy 'Millennia War' T-shirts Now Before They're Gone...

2008-10-02T11:27:00.000-07:00

With the fall season now upon us, short sleeved t-shirts will be traded for long sleeves soon. Certain designs are only available on short sleeve shirts so get 'em before they're gone!

'Millennia War' button, stickers, and more only available at
cafepress.com/millenniawar!

New Blog Banner

2008-09-06T23:54:00.000-07:00

I'm always trying to figure out more ways of promoting my books and online store so I created a banner ad for the top of my blog! Every time a new issue is available or changes are made in the store, you'll see it advertised there!

If you haven't already, make sure to check out the new online store. Summer's coming to a close and some of the products are going to be switched out. In about 2 weeks, "Millennia War" hoodies, jackets, and sweatshirts will be added to the store for the fall season. So buy all the t-shirts while you can before they go away, guys and girls!!! =^_^=

"Millennia War" in Kyoto, Japan!!!

2008-09-04T19:46:00.000-07:00

Yeah, baby!!! "Millennia War" will be featured over seas!

I will make an appearance in Kyoto, Japan for the 'Out of Sequence: Underrepresented Voices in American Comics' event Nov. 13th and 14th, 2008. My work will be featured there along with other artists.

This is the same show that will also take place in the Krannert Art Museum at the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign October 24, 2008 - January 4, 2009. =^_^=

"Millennia War" on T.V.!!!

2008-09-04T17:55:00.000-07:00

Yep!

This has been in the works for a small time but I wanted to make sure everything had the green light before I go and tell the world about it, haha! Thanks to my mom promoting me to the right people, the T.V. show,"Chicago Tonight", learned about "Millennia War" and the rest of my art and conducted an interview with me today!!!

Our first stop was Graham Crackers Comics located on 77 E. Madison St. in downtown Chicago where the interviewer, Christian Farr, interviewed me about my work along with the Graham Crackers staff. After buying a few comics and hanging out a while there, Christian, his camera man, Tim, and I drove back to my house where we finished the interview in my room (a.k.a. the Command Center ^_^), played DDR, and ravaged the dinner my mom prepared for us, heheh. We ended our day together by taking a group shot in my living room.

I had a feeling today would go well, but I didn't anticipate it would be as fun as it was. I mean Christian and Tim managed to play some video games and stay for dinner (although it IS hard to say no to my mom's cooking!).

My thanks goes out to my mom and Jeanette for making this opportunity possible, Graham Crackers Comics for allowing us to use their store, Tim for being an awesome camera man and a cool person, and Christian for making the interview really comfortable and smooth. Let's do it again!!!! =^_^=

Okay the question I know you're waiting to be answered: the date of the airing for the episode hasn't been set yet (since it was just shot today, LOL) but as soon as I find out you guys will be the first to know!!!! Chicago Tonight airs on WTTW Channel 11 at 7 pm on weekdays, with rebroadcasts at 1 am & 4:30 am. I am assuming this is only for Chicago....

****More About Christian Farr****
(I copied this from Chicago Tonight's official website. Wish there were more about Tim, LOL.)

Christian Farr is a correspondent for Chicago Tonight. Prior to joining WTTW, Farr was a weekend anchor and reporter for the Ten O’Clock News at the FOX affiliate WTXF in Philadelphia. He began there as a General Assignment Reporter, and in less than two years of his arrival was promoted to Morning Anchor and Host. A year later, Farr was promoted to Weekend Anchor, a position he held for three years.

Farr was nominated for an Emmy as host of Fox Spotlights Black History Month in 2002 and for the Ray of Hope series in 2003. Both the New York State Broadcasters Association and the Ohio Associated Broadcasters Association have also recognized Farr for his outstanding contributions to the field of broadcast journalism. He also won the E. W. Scripps School of Journalism award for a series on Dangerous Roads in Ohio in 2000. In addition, he has received several civic and community awards in the Dayton and Philadelphia areas.

A University of Delaware graduate, in Chicago Farr rejoins his broadcasting family. His wife, Karen Jordan is a Weekend Anchor/Reporter with WLS-TV/ABC7 and his father-in-law, long-time Chicago Broadcaster Robert Jordan is a Weekend Anchor/Reporter for WGN-TV.

Indyplanet Spotlight - "Millennia War" #4!!!

2008-09-02T10:48:00.000-07:00

What a pleasant surprise!

My friend Charlie, creator of the comic "Blackbird" also available on indyplanet.com, called me earlier to tell me he discovered our books featured in the indyplanet spotlight banner of the site! I don't know how to take screen captures on a PC so I took this with my digital camera, haha! If anyone knows how to take screen captures on a PC, please let me know how! Pretty please!

Looking at this picture makes you want to go buy all my "Millennia War" comics, doesn't it? Go on.... admit it.... :o)

*** Sept.5th, 2008 ***

My friend, Earl, tried to help me by sending me a tutorial on screen captures on a PC. However, since I work on a laptop I don't think I have all the necessary buttons that were mentioned in the tutorial, LOL! Thus, I went to indyplanet.com and copy and pasted the box, and pieced it back together in Photoshop so I could show you guys a clearer image... It wasn't too hard, really. Thanks, Earl!

=^_^=

The "Millennia War" Online Store!

2008-08-16T17:10:00.000-07:00

Read the "Millennia War" comics and can't get enough of Hannah, Saya, Nevel, and the rest of the gang? No problem! Get your fix with the trendy "Millennia War" merchandise from the official online store! Collect buttons, stickers, coffee mugs, apparel, and more! Visit millenniawar.com to preview the comics and subscribe to the newsletter at the store to learn about new comic releases, convention appearances, and new products available in the store!!!

http://www. cafepress. com/millenniawar

Millennia War #4 NOW AVAILABLE

2008-08-16T16:32:00.000-07:00

Yo, yo!

"Millennia War" issue 4 is now available on indy planet!!! Excited? I am... It's 40 pages of sheer fun! Some people already read it and their response was (and I quote, LOL) "the most intense issue yet"! Another was "a lot happened in this issue... this story's gonna be big". I was more than pleased to hear that!

So with that shameless promotion outta the way, go to indyplanet.com and type "Millennia War" in the quick-find box to purchase your copy today! GO! GO! GO!

PS,
This is NOT the official cover. Official cover @ indyplanet.com... View at your own risk unless you've already read issues #0-#3!!!

PSS,
Expect issue #5 in October!

=^_^=

Lydia and Cherry Blossoms

2008-07-22T00:48:00.000-07:00

a pic of the lovely Lydia from 'Millennia War".

enjoy. =^_^=

'Millennia War' @ Homewood Days

2008-07-16T18:00:00.000-07:00

this past weekend was 'Homewood Days' in Homewood,Il. and the nice comic owners at the Zone comic store allowed me to set up a table within their store and sell my books. things were kinda slow since i was indoors and the event was outdoors but it's all good!!! then this guy was walking around as optimus prime which was really cool. i saw a couple a small children who were afraid to come near him LOL!

and yes, that's me wearing the head in the first pic.

=^_^=

Julius doesn't look like Mike! (at least not to me...)

2008-07-16T17:31:00.000-07:00

LOL!!!

at wizard world 2 weeks ago, my friend and co-writer, michael smith II, was telling me how he was trying to convince people that he and the 'Millennia War' character, julius, do not look alike after people kept comparing them. i found it quite hilarious for reasons i don't think are proper to state here but yeah.... they don't look alike. leave mike alone, people. LOL

xoxo

a few more WW '08 pics...

2008-06-30T12:28:00.000-07:00

couldn't fit these in the previous post...

also, my friend and co-writer of 'Millennia War' made his convention debut this weekend... Michael Smith II!!! LOL! that's him posing with the girl in the red puckering her lips, LOL. he graduated from columbia college 3 years ago with a B.A. fine arts in Film/Video. he loves to write scripts so i thought he'd make a great co-writer. so far i'm happy LOL.

'Millennia War' @ Wizard World 2008!!!

2008-06-30T11:46:00.000-07:00

YAY!!!!! ^_^

'Millennia War' had another great convention, selling a lil over half of the 400 books in stock, plus t-shirts and posters. so i'm very happy....

hung out with some industry professionals, including khary randolph, rodney ramos, and mike norton and more.

everything was pretty perfect except for michael turner dying. my legs went numb when my mom told me the news... i collected all the soulfire comics and had him sign them when i met him 2 years ago at another wizard world... R.I.P., michael. xoxo

Commissioned Art

2008-06-30T10:53:00.000-07:00

I finished this pinup of Tixmion the Faerie for the Force Galaxia character bible a lil over a week ago... the white glow around her is her special beam, composed of tiny faeries... instead of having her shoot the beam from her hands, i decided to do something different and have the faerie beam frame her. the dark clouds and stars are supposed to remind you of outer space in a sense...

"Millennia War" #4 Cover

2008-06-20T09:59:00.000-07:00

tee-hee! ^_^

i love teasing my readers. "Millennia War" is notorious for it's cliffhangers but i felt compelled to reveal one secret right away -- on the cover. for the fans who read the series up to now, you should know who this is already...

"Millennia War" #4 will be available soon... (see! i told you the wait would be shorter! *wink*)

Found This From College....

2008-06-13T21:22:00.001-07:00

Anyone who knows me knows I LOVE asian pop/rock music. I actually love all music, doesn't matter the genre or who made it.

Point is: I was going through folders in my room and found this pic I made in Illustrator of Ayumi Hamasaki back in freshman year of college. I just stared at it for a while, reminiscing on how I had just discovered the wonders of J-pop and J-rock and how Ayumi Hamasaki was one of the first artists I had listened to. She became one of my favorites and so I recreated her image in Illustrator as some kind of fan piece or whatever. I then tweaked it in Photoshop...

Ah... good times. I should do one of Gackt and Hyde... =^_^=

Millennia War #1 on Indy Planet

2008-06-09T07:12:00.000-07:00

"Millennia War" is now available on indyplanet.com!

Here's the direct link to preview and purchase the issue: http://www.indyplanet.com/catalog/product_info.php?products_id=1074

This is the 2nd issue in the series and so far the first four issues have been published, with the 5th issue (#4) completed this month. The books have taken on a bi-monthly schedule and so far I have been able to keep up with it! ^_^

I just wish indy planet posted books in their online store more often...

Sneak Peek of "Millennia War" #4...

2008-06-02T19:03:00.000-07:00

I've been working hard, slaving away on my art among other things. Thought I'd just post a page from the latest book in the series, "Millennia War #4"... show you guys that I haven't disappeared.

Preparing for Wizard World Chicago, June 26th-29th... Rock and Roll, beh-beh.

LOL

xoxo

An updated Myspace Page = A happy Ashley ^_^

2008-05-22T00:27:00.000-07:00

i'm so lame...

i feel the dire need to update you guys on how my myspace now has *gasps*

ARTWORK!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

oh my word!!!! LOL. but for real. i was so behind on getting it together, just being content with the white page and my pretty profile pic. LOL. viewers couldn't even tell that I was an artist! Hell, I couldn't tell!!! LOL!!!! But it's all good now. Not decked out with weird graphics and music that seems to blast outta nowhere, scaring da be-jeezus outta unsuspecting people once their page loads, but i'll get there. gotta walk b4 you can run, yeah? i think i'ma put some 50 cent on there to contrast with the pink.... send me a friend request if you like (http://www.myspace.com/ashley_hayashi)

oh crap. random thought... my phone bill's due today.
a cell phone bill = a sad Ashley :o(

"Millennia War" goodies debut @ ECBACC

2008-05-21T19:56:00.000-07:00

so these are some of the stuff from "Millennia War" revealed to public first at ECBACC '08....

I had "Millennia War" issues #2 and #3 (check out an earlier post to see the cover for issue #2 ^_^), and posters depicting the new character, Taija. I also had another poster depicting a montage of some of the cast already introduced. "Millennia War" is a grand story with a huge cast, so I plan to do various montages in the future showing off more of the characters.

=^_^=

"Millennia War" nearly sold out at ECBACC!!!!

2008-05-21T19:39:00.000-07:00

hey!!!!!

sorry i haven't posted anything new sooner... i meant to but the trip out to ECBACC in philly this past weekend really drained me. between all the plane rides and driving... i was beat. i worked non-stop came the big event on sat., selling issues after issues and posters after posters of my comic "Millennia War". i sold so much, i was beginning to worry if i would have enough books for Wizard World Chicago, which isn't too far off! (June 26th -29th).

after arriving in philly, i was surprised and happy to see my artwork in the very hotel i stayed in so i took some pichas of the fliers and what-have-you's there, LOL. i'm such a dork... ><

anyhoo, fat momma from the hit reality show "who wants to be a superhero" was there, and so was nichelle nichols from "star trek" fame. also in attendance was pro wrestler and actor, eric "the smoke" moran, helping artist and friend, criss cross promote their comics for Big City Comics "Tempest" and "Totem".

i was so tired once i came back home to chicago, i became sick and was stuck in bed for the next 2 days! i don't what happened to me, but i feel a whole lot better now. if i didn't i wouldn't be able to write this blog now, would i? LOL...

i would like to once again thank yumy and the ECBACC gang for making my first ECBACC experience wonderful, my mom for having my back and believing in me, my uncle, friends, and of course the FANS!!!!!!!!

XOXOXOXOXOXOXOXOXOXOXOXO

ECBACC 2008 is next week!

2008-05-09T19:45:00.000-07:00

heyo.

just giving another mention about ECBACC. nichelle nichols of Star Trek and Heros fame will be in attendance along with me as guests among others.

xoxo

Gimmie a Hug

2008-04-14T01:28:00.000-07:00

This is my rendition of a character from "The Hole: Consumer Culture" by Damian Duffy and John Jennings.

As the duo describes it:
"The Hole: Consumer Culture is a science fiction horror story about the buying of selling of race in America, the simultaneous worship and degradation of African Americans in popular culture, and the bloody terror of boundaries being torn down. "

www.eyetrauma.net

Smexay... That's Right

2008-03-22T09:18:00.000-07:00

Aaarrgghhh!!! I've been lazy with my coloring lately... I've been wanting to color this image for a while and I finally found some time to do it. Wish it came out different. Ah well... Hope you like it!!!

=^.^=

More of "10 Kills"

2008-03-07T22:09:00.000-08:00

Remembered I mentioned in a fairly recent post "10 Kills"?

Well here's a first look at all of the ronin, destined to protect a young girl from a band of ninjas pursuing her to use in a sex trade.

The comic has lots-o-action, lots-o-blood.... 'nuff said! LOL

Written by Michael Smith II and art by mwah, the comic will be part of Ground Up Studios upcoming anthology, due later this year.

xoxo!

"Millennia War" Issue 0 NOW AVAILABLE!

2008-03-03T21:56:00.000-08:00

Hey!

"Millennia War Issue #0" is now available on indyplanet.com!!!

Copy this link to order it: http://www.indyplanet.com/catalog/product_info.php?products_id=873.

XOXO

Images for ECBACC!!!

2008-02-23T15:01:00.000-08:00

Yo!

These are some concepts for Raja, the character representing ECBACC in Philly this year (www.ecbacc.com).

The final version that was accepted is the last one with the braids...

xoxo

New "Millennia War" Chcaracter!!!!

2008-02-22T21:01:00.001-08:00

Meet Taija.

She'll be introduced in the 4rth issue (book #5), so all you "Millennia War" fans please look forward to it!!! I rather not reveal too much about her right now... everything will be revealed in due time.

xoxo

Black Age in University Park

2008-02-22T20:02:00.000-08:00

This past weekend, I attended an independent comic convention, The Black Age X, which was organized by Turtel Onli, father of the Black Age. There were many other indy artists there, each promothing their own comic(s).

xoxo

Issue #3 is the FOURTH book!!!!! >.<

2008-02-22T19:53:00.000-08:00

I shall give you a TINY peek of the fourth book (issue #3) of "Millennia War", mwahahaha..... (or "mwu-hee-hee-hee... you know who you are). I brought on my good, talented friend, Michael Smith II, as co-writer.

I'm working to make the books available on indy planet for purchase so bare with me, LOL.

In the meantime, I'm preparing for the summer con season. Wizard World Chicago anyone?

xoxo

"10 Kills"

2008-02-22T19:41:00.000-08:00

Yo!!!! It's been a while, yeah?

Well, I've been working on a comic called "10 Kills" for my good friends at Groundup Studios and their upcoming anthology (groundupstudios.com).

I was referencing older Japanese paintings and tried mixing that with my style for something unique... Just experimenting....

The story is basically about 4 ronin safely escorting a girl escaping from ninjas out to capture her.

Story by Michael Smith II
Art by Yours Truly xoxo

Millennia War Sequentials

2007-12-04T05:48:00.000-08:00

Heya. This scene is from the second book, MW #1 and was published last September. This was my first attempt at drawing an action scene (although I didn't post all of it on here because it's takes up about the second half of the book). I was going for that Quentin Tarantino effect with the blood, LOL. ><

I hope you enjoy it!

Self-Portrait!!!

2007-11-15T04:16:00.000-08:00

Yeah! That's me right there!

No it isn't, LOL, but a girl can wish. I didn't really know what to do with this image and I was rushing to finish it so I could get to bed at a decent hour so, yeah...She kinda looks like Rosie Perez to me, lol.

xoxo, baby!!!! =^.^=

Visit the Millennia War site!!!!

2007-10-27T16:40:00.000-07:00

Please visit the site dedicated to my comic, 'Millennia War': www.millenniawar.com... I hope you like it!

This illustration depicts a 'photo' of the Hayashi twins when they were younger. Happy times. ^^

xoxo

The Older Twin

2007-10-27T16:37:00.000-07:00

Saya Hayashi from Millennia War. Read the story and you'll see she goes through... a lot, lol.

That girl you love from Millennia War ^^

2007-10-24T04:18:00.000-07:00

Yo!

This is an image I tweaked from an original piece I made last week. I just felt like experiemnting with grayscale and all that jazz... A lot of readers love Tomiko from my Millennia War series. I guess you can say she stole the show from Hannah and friends. Trust me, you'll have more reasons to love her in the future issues.

The next 4+ books have already been written out and the 4th book in the series is half-way drawn already. I just can't wait to graduate college in December so I can have more time to dish out the books faster. Not just for the fans, but for myself!!! I'm besides myself with anticipation to see how it alls looks, hahaha!!! ^^

OH! btw, her name is pronounced (TO-MEE-KO). ^^

XOXO

Millennia War #2 is HERE!!!!

2007-10-18T06:21:00.000-07:00

Hey there. A LOT has been going on in past couple-o-months. I'm finishing up school in 2 months...I just had a birthday in which I celebrated with friends at an arcade and later stuffed my face with a hamburger and italian sausage (dipped of course) in one sitting... becoming the proud new owner of the X-BOX 360... and oh yeah: working feverishly on Millennia War. I imagine books will be dropping a little faster when school is done. Who knows...

Anyhoo, Millennia War #2 is available on www.lulu.com, so buy it! BUY IT NOW! ><

XOXO

Fantasy Love

2007-08-21T08:42:00.000-07:00

Here's a new watercolor painting... Cute, isn't she? ^^

watercolors!!! ^^

2007-08-20T09:32:00.000-07:00

hey! ^^

i've been busy with "Millennia War" but i've still managed to find the time to watercolor... recently, i felt like i was in a rut. but i just tell myself to stick with a peice no matter what and eventually it will turn into what i want it to become. the vampire one i drew back in april, but didnt get around to painting it til last week. the second peice features hannah and her boyfriend, roman, from "Millennia War". i can't help but to hate his hair... ugh (lol). ><

Ninja Chick

2007-08-02T07:04:00.001-07:00

This babe is from a upcoming comic I've been working on here and there for a while. There are more characters (of course) but I'll wait a little longer before I'll reveal them. Hmmm... I might cosplay as her at a later convention... ><

Experimentation

2007-08-02T06:56:00.000-07:00

These are "paintings" I did in Photoshop about 6 months ago... I was challenged by a certain person to see how far I could push myself. I rarely draw environments unless they're in my comic, 'Millennia War', and I paint realistically even less. Perhaps I should take up this technique more often...

I used pictures for references; the pic with the building was the first one I did and I repainted it without the people that were standing by the bench like in the original pic.

Concepts and Sketches

2007-06-19T11:47:00.000-07:00

Here are some concepts from my comic, "Millennia War" (http://www.lulu.com/content/978085) and other projects i plan to publish in the future...