One of the beautiful things about the web is that any artist at any level can post their work online.
One of the difficult things about the web is that any at any level can post their work online.
It makes it tricky to find work of quality, as you sometimes have to wade through a lot to find the diamonds in the rough. That’s why I always appreciate it when Sheldon readers tell friends to give Sheldon a try. A personal reference from you to your buddies means way more than any link: it’s personal, and it’s based on a shared sense of humor.
And I like to pay that sentiment forward whenever I can. So today, I want to mention three bits of new online artistry that you might enjoy:
1.) Lunchbox Funnies: In their early days, webcomics were largely geared towards the dominant early-adapters of online life: nerds, gamers, and youngish guys. Which is what makes Lunchbox Funnies so interesting. Like Blank Label Comics, Lunchbox Funnies is a collective of webcomics, but intentionally geared for all generations to enjoy. From their press release: “We’ve each been working towards creating highly entertaining comics that can be enjoyed by beginning readers, teenagers, and adults alike. We’re convinced that “all-ages” doesn’t mean “just for kids,” but rather it’s a label that should apply to entertainment that allows for shared experiences across generational lines.” I’ve already found a number of strips in their lineup that I really enjoy — check ’em out.
2.) Barkeater Lake: Looks like Sheldon started a bit of an trend over at comics.com! Fellow comics.com refugee Barkeater Lake has moved to an independent site…and it’s lookin’ good. Head on over!
3.) Jonny Blu: Webcomics aside, let’s talk American jazz for a minute. Specifically, Jonny Blu. My wife and I met Jonny at a wedding a year or so ago, and really clicked talking artist-to-artist. But our fields couldn’t be further apart: Jonny was and is a very successful singer in China(!), and has recently moved to LA to start a new chapter in jazz. And man-o-man, that boy’s jazz is silky smooth. Have a listen!