Ho Ho Ho, Artshark !

The Holidays are a great excuse for Artshark to dress for the occasion, and here he is doing just that. If you've been to the Academy's home page during the month, you've seen this version of our mascot. Here's an insider look as to how the latest version of Artshark came to be. Click on the image below and you'll get a better picture.


On the left is the rough concept sketch in blue pencil. In the center is a blue line clean up of the drawing. On the right the finished version digitally colored in Photoshop by yours truly and ready for uploading to the Academy's website.

Coming up with a new version of Artshark is always a lot of fun. There's been more than 60 renditions of the character since I first dreamed him up in the early days of the school. Mascot characters are a great way to brand a property and in the case of The Animation Academy, Artshark has been our best friend in that regard.

A very Merry Christmas and a Happy Holiday Season to all !