Latest Updates and News
Welcome to Blackheart Art's update page.
August 14, 2010 "New Art Added"
Okay here we go. It has been awhile since I updated. You got to hate those computer issues that force you to rest to factory spec's, reloading all programs and stuff.
First up today is a commission I recently completed for a customer in Oregon. He wanted a caricature of a Globe Swift. He owned the aircraft back in the 70's. It was a real interesting aircraft to work on.
Next is my second World War I aircraft and one of my favorites from that war. I have always thought the Albatros D V was a very clean and sleek aircraft for its day. This Albatros was flown by German ace Ltn d R Ernst Udet, while operating with Jasta 37. Udet finished the war with 62 kills and if I am not mistake was the highest scoring German ace to survive the war. Udet had a streamer attached to his aircrafts elevator, but I did not what to add space to the rear of the aircraft so I extended his scarf. I will probably be adding another Albatros as there are a few with some pretty colorful markings out there.
Lastly here is something a little different. In my youth, which today seems light years ago, I was a fan of a BBC TV show called Thunderbirds. It was a show created by Gerry Anderson that featured puppets instead of usual hand drawn animation. The show chronicles the exploits of International Rescue, a organization created by Jeff Tracy and his family. The had All sorts of aircraft and space vehicles numbered 1-5 dedicated to global rescue efforts. I was always partial to Thunderbird 2, which was a huge VTOL heavy lift vehicle that carried a massive interchangeable pod in its center section. These pods carried rescue equipment tailored to which ever mission was needed. Here I have tried to capture Thunderbird 2 in my own special caricature style. This may start a whole new category of caricatures from TV and Movies. I think I might try a Viper fighter from Battlestar Galactica next, or maybe a Star Wars X Wing. They should make cool caricatures. If you have any suggestions please let me know. It's always fun to expand out side the box and try new things.
I would like to take a minute to thank all the fans of my art for following this web page and I hope you enjoy the art. It is greatly appreciated.
Also there was a gentleman out there that sent me an email regarding my EC-121 caricature. He brought to my attention that the markings and patches I had on the art work were good but that they were slightly inaccurate. Sometimes when doing a caricature of older aircraft and researching units and bases it's difficult to fine examples of the older unit logos. This was a example, finding 1960 era patches for current squadrons usually leads to the current versions. So I used the more current example. Anyway long story short the gentleman sent me a picture of the patch and suggested changes to the logos on the tail of the aircraft as well as the base where the unit was locate in the 60's. I have made those changes, but due to the recent computer issues I have lost his email address. I can only hope he reads my updates and will email me. Once I get a watermark on that new version I will be posting it to the site.
Ohh and there will be a new Seafury coming soon. I have started painting and should have it completed in a few days.
Thats it for now....... oh if you are a movie buff... FYI Scott Pilgrim vs the World is a very good, fun movie and if you were thinking about the Expendables...... save you money.
July 22, 2010 "New Art Added"
Good afternoon to you. Today I have one new caricature to add to my collection. This art work is one I have been wanting to do for awhile. I had her sitting on the drawing table for longer then I should have. But paying gigs take priority so I kept pushing her back. Sounds good right..... well truth be know I hate lettering and I cheat every chance I get. This time I, for some reason, just had a hard time with the lettering. So I kept putting it off..... anyway I finally found a few good close up views and recreated the nose art. Here is another air racer, and one of my favorites to boot. For some reason this little racer just screams Golden Age of Air Racing. "Czech Mate" is heavily modified Yak-11. First conceived by Bob Yancey who was a race veteran, flying his F4U Corsair, the Yak took shape. Yancey started with the basic 700 hp trainer and proceeded to apply good old American hot rod mentality to the project. He traded up in the engine department by fitting a massive 2,200 hp P&W R2800-CB-10 to the airframe. Replaced the fabric covered fuselage, which would never hold up to race speeds, and added a racing canopy. The aircraft preformed well under the name "Perestroika" and soon found her way into the gold races. The aircraft changed hands a few times and was acquired by John and Marcia Moore who named her "Czech Mate". They added a few mods, namely a taller tail, and today Czech Mate is a solid contender at the Reno Championships. I hope you enjoy.
Remember all prints are available in 2 sizes 12x17 and 8.5x11. Prices are very reasonable. I also do commission works. So if you see anything you like please don't hesitate to email me.
July 15, 2010 "New Art Added"
Hey to all..... Today we add a few new caricatures. One I have had in mind for a few years but never got around to and one to honor a great pilot and one to complete my USA medium bomber collection. First up we have the famous Martin B-26 "Flak Bait" This aircraft flew more missions then any other US bomber (and for that matter any bomber) during WWII. Currently Flak Bait is on display that the National Air and Space Museum. Okay well at least the fuselage is on display. Lets hope someday they put this great bomber back together and display her as she should be seen, complete and whole. The big boys of the Eighth AF and the 17's and 24's seem to get all the press but the boys that flew the lower level missions hop scotching across occupied France following the front line troops should be given there due.
Next up I venture back to where this whole caricature art started. Back in the day I started doing these caricatures after the ill fated Reno Air Races in 2001. Yep just a day or so after 9-11, I traveled up to the races for my first planned 4 day attendance. Usually I was there just on the weekend. Well as we all know the FAA grounded all aircraft for several days..... including the racers which washed out the event. I did attend one or two days photographing the racers and hoping they would get a special reprieve to race. After, I wanted to do something different. I had done a few fine art pencil drawings of the racers, but felt there needed to be something unique. So I started doing the caricatures. Well now I return to the air racing scene. One of the most reliable racers to graced the circuit is Frank Sanders Sea Fury T Mk.20 "Dreadnought". She is a beautiful beast with a very unique sound. Wonderfully crafted, Mr. Sanders fitted a Pratt & Whitney R-4360 to this racer and created a great. She won The National Championship in her first outing, a rare feat, under the skilled hands of Neil Anderson in 1983 with a speed of 425.242. Each and every year 'Dreadnought' finds her way into the gold finals and always finishes well. She is one of the best and a fine tribute to a great air racing family.
One name is synonymous, with air racing. He has been at just about every air race since Reno started. Under his watchful eye every unlimited race was started, and many in-flight emergencies were skillfully handled to a successful conclusion. His "Gentleman you have a race" was music to the ears of race fans everywhere. Oh and lets not forget his amazing air show performances in the Shrike Aero Commander and his striking P-51D. Yep Mr. Robert A. "Bob" Hoover. To honor this wonderfully kind and gracious man I have added his famous P-51D, know to many as "Old Yeller", to my air racers.. She has been seen in several paint schemes, Evergreen and Rockwell International. I took nostalgic trip through the many pictures I took while attending air shows and races and found several from the 1985 Reno National Championships. So I have done my best to recreate that scheme. I hope you enjoy.
So what's next. Well seeing as I am doing the air racer theme, I should finish up a few I have been playing with for a few months. Stiletto, and Czech Mate. Two of my favorite racers. They just need some fine tuning and last bit of details. I also have a B-29 waiting for paint, a new Sea Fury caricature (thought I would revisit some of my earlier art and spruce it up a bit), and something slightly different. If any air racing fans out there want to see their favorite racer, just email me and let me know what your looking for. Enjoy the new art and see you soon.
July,1 2010 "New Art Added"
Hello everyone. Today we add a couple of new art works. First up is a caricature that was commissioned by a customer. He is a big fan of L. A. County Fire Department helicopters. He requested a Bell 412 in those markings. Here we have one of the Bell 412's operated by the L.A. County Fire Dept. This is Air 18. This particular caricature was a very time consuming art work. There is allot of detail in this one. Working helos seem to have lots of stuff hanging of them, lights, mirrors, hoists, antenna, etc. I really like the way this one came out. Even thought it took longer then usual the extra detail is well worth it. Hope you enjoy it.
Next up is a fun little caricature I have wanted to do for some time. As an aviation fan growing up I was always a fan of the SR-71. The Blackbird. That high speed bat out of hell aircraft that was seeming mysterious. Speed was super fast. Sleek and exciting to think about it's true performance numbers. I had the opportunity to see the Blackbird at a few air shows in the late 70's and 80's. Awesome aircraft. So when I started doing caricatures the Blackbird was a obvious choose. It is a unique aircraft to caricaturize. Long and sleek and simple, and just one color. So when you try and do a caricature.... lets just say interesting. I think I got it pretty good, finally. It was a caricature I played with for a long time. This SR-71 s/n 64-17976 was first flown in 1967. She flew missions during the Vietnam War, and later in the Middle East. Currently she is enjoying her retirement at the USAF Museum at Wright Patterson AFB.
Anyway that's it for today. Next, we hope to have a B-26 (Flak Bait??), B-29, Enola Gay, Dreadnought, the air racing Seafury and something special.
June 16, 2010 "New Art added"
Okay yes I just updated the web site yesterday, and I said I would be finishing up the F-111F and will I guess I had already finished it. I was so caught up in doing the Burbank Helo that...... well enough of that. Here is the USAF F-111F. The aircraft s/n 71-0891, flew with the 48th TFW during the first Gulf War. Based in Lakenheath, UK. While participating in Desert Storm she flew out of Taif, Saudi Arabia. I have also seen picture of this aircraft carrying the name "East Anglia" on the nose. I almost added it just for the fun of it.
Second up, we have a Douglas A-1H Skyraider. This one in USAF markings. 134-555, "The Proud American" flew with the 602nd SOS/ 56th SOW out of Nakhon Phanom, Thailand. I do not have any information on the pilot assigned to this aircraft. I saw this aircraft in a Squadron Signal book TAC by Lou Drendel. During my research I found several "Proud American" SPADS. One had a eagle in the middle of the text. But I used the picture as my main reference. It was from the right side and showed the markings fairly well. Also during my research I found conflicting information as to tail codes, bases and units. So if anyone has anymore information on this aircraft I would love to hear from you. I think I will be doing another USAF Skyraider. I found a very interesting on-line book by a Skyraider pilot and I think I might do one of his aircraft. This caricature is dedicated to the brave Sandy pilots that flew into harms way to save fellow aviators shot down over enemy territory, escorting the Jolly Green helos on SAR missions.
Okay that's it for now. And as usual if you see what you like drop me a line and let me know. I love to hear from those that enjoy my art.
Ohh and one last add. A gentleman I met at the Planes of Fame air show, a photographer who works with a on line magazine called Air Show Stuff on-line, was kind enough to mention me and my art in the latest issue of the magazine. There is an article on the Planes of Fame air show that is worth reading. So go to www.airshowstuff.com and check out the June issue, there are some great photographs from some of the air shows around the country. The one on the Corsairs is great.
June 15, 2010 "New Art Added"
Wow it seems like forever since I added any new caricatures to the site. Hopefully that will not be true for to long. Today I add a special caricature. This particular art work is the raffle prize that Burbank Police won at the Pasadena fly-in. They have three MD-500N's which operate as part of the Burbank Glendale Joint Air Support Unit. They choose to have their newest 500N be the subject of this caricature. (I looks like they may also have the other two helos done as well) This then is MD-500N N103CG. I think this caricature came out really well. There is allot of detail in there. Plus the colors look really good. It was a pleasure working with these guys. I had the opportunity to go out and shoot a few extra shots at their hanger and they were very helpful and informative regarding the helos and the differences between each aircraft. Really good bunch of guys and I really want to thank them for their assistance.
So what's next. Well I have another commission on the board. That would be a Bell 412 helicopter. This one in the colors of the LA County Fire Dept. So it looks like I will be staying with the helo's for a little bit longer. Speaking of helos I am also drawing up a AH-1 Cobra as there was lots of interest in a Cobra caricature. I am also drawing a B-29, B-26, F-100, F-105, SR-7, F-35 and a DC-9. So look for several new caricatures soon. The B-29 is something I added after reading "Masters of the Air" by Donald L. Miller. This is a very good book detailing the Eighth Air Force during WWII. In there I learned that Col. Paul Tibbets flew lead on the first Eighth Air Force daylight raid against German, and obviously he is best know for flying Enola Gay and dropping the first atomic bomb. I thought it would be fun to have his B-17 and his B-29 on the same print. first bombing mission and one of the last missions of the war. Also the F-100 will be a nod to all the Misty pilots out there. After reading "Bury Us Upside Down" by Rick Newman and Don Sheppard (himself a Misty pilot) I had to create a caricature to honor those brave men. If you haven't read this book, I highly recommend it. I think I will also repaint my A-1 Skyraider into USAF markings for all the Sandy pilots out there. Well that about updates everything so far. If you have any suggestions as to markings for any of these forth coming caricatures let me know. If you flew any of these great aircraft I would love to hear from you.
One last add. I have just about finished a USAF F-111. So all you F-111 fans will finally have a US version.
May 30, 2010 "New Art Added"
May we all remember those that made the ultimate sacrifice during the battles for our freedoms. Happy Memorial day.
Today we add a couple of art works that are commissions. First up we have an updated B-52. This time a G model which flew missions during Operation Desert Storm. "Lets Make A Deal", B-52G s/n 58-0173, was one of the first B-52's deployed to Jeddah, Saudi Arabia during Desert Storm. In fact she launched out of her home base, Wurtsmith AFB, MI., in the early morning hours of Jan. 18, 1991 and flew an 18.5 hour mission to Saudi Arabia. During the war she completed 42 missions for a total of 190.6 hours. The aircraft retired to AMARC at Davis Monthan AFB, with a total of 14,331 hours accumulated flying time. This art work was commissioned by a EWO who stood alert in this aircraft while at Wurtsmith, as well as flew a few missions during Desert Storm.
Next up we have another KC-10 Extender aircraft. This one has a special background which includes three F-22's approaching for much needed fuel. This is a special retirement print for a member of the 605th AMXS. As you can see we can accommodate all kinds of requests for custom prints.
I have also added a couple pictures I took at the Plane of Fame air show. A P-51D from the 352nd FG. "Heller Bust" looked factory fresh and as even carrying a couple bombs on the under wing pylons. The detail of this restoration is awesome as even the bomb arming wires were included. She looked great in the air and along with all the other Mustangs that seemed to be everywhere. There was at least 12-15 P-51's in the air at one time early in the show. From an A-36, a P-51A, a P-51B/C and numerous D's, the Mustang seemed to dominate the show. Lets not forget there were also two P-38's at the show and the second picture I have added is a great formation shot of a P-38 and an unmarked P-51D. Again if you have never been to this air show make sure you put it on the calendar for next year. Prints of these two pictures are available for purchase.
I also want to announce that we will be discontinuing the 11x14 size prints. Going forward we will be offering a 12x17 size print in place of the 11x14. The prints will be priced at $35. Not to much of an increase seeing as the paper is a heavier weight then the older 11x14 size and slightly bigger size. There are some 11x14 prints still available of existing prints and they will be offered until they are gone. The cost will remain the same, $30.
That's about it for now. Enjoy the holiday weekend and keep checking back as there are lots of new art works coming soon.
May 20, 2010
I would like to take a minute to thank all the people who stopped by the booth at the Planes of Fame air show. You made our first air show vendor experience a success. I was overwhelmed by the response to my art. Everyone seemed to love the caricatures. It was fun watching as people passed by the booth, look at the art and either smiled, laugh or said "Ohhh how cute." Those that took the time to stop in, take a closely look and say Hi seemed really impressed with detail and uniqueness of the art. It made my day and filled me with encouragement for future art.
I also want to thank everyone that purchased a print or prints from Blackheart Art. Your support is greatly appreciated. I hope you enjoy your caricatures.
Again much heart felt thanks to everyone for the kind words and suggestions for future art.
A quick update on up coming caricatures. I am currently working on a B-52G and will be starting on a MD-520N NOTAR for the Burbank PD. There had been allot of requests for more helicopters like the AH-1 Cobra, UH-1 Huey and a few others especially police department birds. There seems to be interest in the Century series fighters as well. F-100, F-105 and other Vietnam era aircraft. I even had someone interested in the new F-35. So look for some of these soon.
May 13, 2010 "New Art Added"
Well here we go. The big push to get ready for the Planes of Fame airshow is in full swing. We are down to the last day or so of prep work, getting the booth ready, prints indexed and boxed. This is going to be a crazy weekend. Wish me luck.
Oh and I would like to thank all the fine men and women at the Pasadena Police Department air support division. They put on a great Helicopter Awareness day and BBQ, the other day, and where kind enough to invite Blackheart Art to attend as a vendor. Each and everyone connected with the event went out of their way to make sure everything went smoothly and made sure we had everything we needed. They even allowed me time on the flight line so I could "gather intel" as one office put it, grabbing pictures for future caricatures. Thanks to all and I look forward to next year. Oh and congrats to Burbank PD for winning the raffle and the custom caricature of their MD520 NOTAR. I look forward to working on that one.
Okay just in time for the Planes of Fame airshow I present two new P-51D caricatures. First up the Mustang flown by legendary pilot Chuck Yeager. This P-51D is named "Glamorous Glen III". Capt. Yeager flew this aircraft when he was with the 363rd FS/ 357th Fighter Group. His final WWII tally was 11.5 victories. Next up we have one of the top scoring Mustang aces of WWII, Maj George Preddy and his "Cripes A Mighty 3rd". Maj Preddy downed 4 aircraft in one mission in this aircraft (one kill was later changed to probable) then on Aug. 6th 1944 he scored 6 Me-109's in one mission. The most of any pilot with the 352nd.
So there you go. these will be the last updates added before the airshow. Remember, if you are coming out to the airshow this weekend, please stop by the booth and say Hi. I would love to meet some of my fans.
One last add. I will be phasing out my 11x14 size prints and moving to a slightly bigger size. Once out of 11x14 sixes, we will be offering a 11.5x16.5 size print. These prints while slightly lager are also heavier. The cost will be $35 for the new size prints. This is not to much of an increase when you consider you are getting a bigger, heavier print.
Well that's all for now. Have a good one and wish me luck.
May 6, 2010 "New Art Added"
Today we add a couple new caricatures. First up, is a updated Hornet flown by VMFA-232. I have been working with the CO of MALS-11 down at MCAS Miramar, for several months now, to create a print they could use as a retirement/ presentation gift. Instead of a plaque they wanted to do something different. They ordered a print that included all the squadron aircraft they support. MALS-11 is the oldest squadron in the Corp and they support all the fixed wing squadrons based at Miramar. So the print includes a caricature of each squadron, VMFA-323,232, and 314, VMFA (AW) 225 and 121, VMFAT-101, all Hornets both single seat and 2 seat versions, and the KC-130 Squadron VMGR-352. The MALS-11 unit patch is the center piece. Well I received the good news that they wanted the print. They also sent along a set of pictures updating me as to the change in markings for one of the Hornets. All the aircraft on the print depict the squadrons colorfully painted aircraft. It seems that VMFA-232, the "Red Devils" changed their paint scheme. So I updated the Hornet I had completed months ago to accurately portray the new scheme. The aircraft now shows a paint scheme that is very reminiscent of the paint schemes the unit carried on their F-4 Phantoms back in the 70's. I like this scheme more the the previous one and I am so glad they used something other then black which seems to be a trend with allot of squadrons. Hopefully I will get the MALS-11 print up on the site soon so you can all see it, and maybe it will give the commanders of other squadrons ideas... hint hint hint.
Next up is a new MD500E caricature. Pasadena Police Department recently acquired a brand new MD500E to add to their fleet of helos. I had the pleasure of meeting the guys at their Air Operations unit and got to photograph a couple of their helos. They are a good bunch of guys and have even invited me to their annual helo day and BBQ, where I will be a vendor. So here is their new MD500E caricature.
Lastly something fun. I was recently asked to come up with a design using one of my aircraft caricatures, that could include a sports theme and the name and number for my nephew. He plays football and volleyball for Temple City High School. My sister wanted something different and something she could put on a tee shirt and give to him as a birthday present. I had just finished the SPAD and thought it worked out perfectly. So here is a custom painted Spad XIII. Ohh and shhhhhh, his birthday isn't till Tuesday the 11th so don't tell him. I had fun with this one and just so you know there is also a volleyball version and could be a basketball version soon. It is just that easy to have a custom caricature. So feel free to email and ask for yours today. While I do this for the love of the art, it is still how I make much need $$$$.
Last add......I can't believe it is just over a week before the Planes of Fame Airshow. Time feels like its slipping away. As this will be my first airshow as a vendor I am desperately getting prints made and hope to have enough for the show. If anyone out there is coming and wants to order a print now to pick up at the show (which will save shipping costs) please feel free to order the print now and I can have it ready for you at the show.
See you at the Show!!!
April 27, 2010 "New Art Added"
Hello again, today we bring you a new/updated art work. One of my early caricatures was a Spitfire. At the time I was unsure what paint scheme I should pick so I just had fun with it and did my own scheme. Anyway I have been improving my skills and thought, why not revisit that old caricature, besides the Spitfire is world famous and a fan favorite. I figured I should have at least one historical profile. So here you go. A Supermarine Spitfire MkVb. This caricature depicts the Spitfire which Wing Cdr Robert Stanford Tuck was flying when he was brought down by flak during a low level mission in Jan. 1942. At the time Cdr Tuck was credited with a total of 27 victories plus 2 shared. I may do a couple more Spitfires as I would like to do a recon version in the pale blue scheme or one with the tropical filter hanging off the front. I have always liked the way this caricature came out. It really looks proportional and yet it has a very curvy look just perfect for a caricature. Some planes are very hard to make look good as caricatures, but other like the Spitfire work out great. If you have any suggestions for future Spitfire art works or are interested in purchasing a print of this great aircraft, just email me.
April 22, 2010 "New Art Added"
Well I just completed my first World War I aircraft caricature. A SPAD XIII flown by 1Lt Edward V. Rickenbacker (later promoted to Capt). This caricature depicts the Kellner built SPAD XIII S4523 with short exhaust stacks. Rickenbacker finished the war with 26 victories, the highest scoring ace in the USAS. He won the Medal of Honor for a mission flown on Sept. 25, 1918 when he downed a D VII and a Halberstadt two seat German aircraft. There were two Halberstadt's on an photo recon mission, escorted by 5 D VII's. 1Lt Rickenbacker was on a lone patrol when he attacked and downed one of the D VII's then attacked the two Halberstadt's, flaming one. With the escort regrouping he headed home. It wasn't until Nov. 6th, 1930 that Cpt. Rickenbacker was awarded his Medal of Honor for this mission.
Also I am adding a custom caricature that I just finished for a customer. A Bombardier Canadair CRJ-100ER. This caricature was commissioned by a pilot flying for Comair to commemorate his first operational flight in the CRJ. This CRJ is N967CA operated by Comair in Delta Connection livery. You can check it out in the "Custom/ Civilian" section. This just adds another airliner to my growing collection. Now any and all CRJ pilots out there can have their very own custom caricature. Just email me and I will hook you up with an awesome commemorative print.
Remember we will have a booth at the annual Planes of Fame airshow in Chino Ca. on May 15-16, 2010. Please come by and say Hi if you get the chance. This is will be our first attempt at being a vendor at an airshow so support the cause and I hope to see you there.
April 13, 2010 "New Art Added"
Hello everyone. Well its official, Blackheart Art will be a vendor at the upcoming Planes of Fame Air Show, May 15th and 16th, 2010, in Chino CA. This will be my first air show (as a vendor) and I hope that many of you can attend. I would love to meet fans of my art. I have put together a special print that will be sold exclusively at the show. It is a P-40F from the 325th FG, the Checker Tail Clan. The paint scheme is of a P-40F-15 s/n 41-19896 flown by 1st Lt. Walter B "Bud" Walker Jr. 1st Lt. Walker flew with the 317th FS out of Mateur, Tunisia in 1943. On 7-30-43 he shot down 3 Me109's near Sardinia. For this exclusive print I have added some nose art, "City of Chino" and a civilian N-number N2010PF, to commemorate the Planes Of Fame 2010 Air Show. This P-40 is painted in similar colors as the Planes of Fame P-40 when it appeared in the film Valkyre. I added a faded background map of the 325th FG's area of operations during that time period, for a different kind of look to the regular prints I have on the web site.
I have also just finished my second helicopter, an MD530F for the Las Vegas Metro Police Dept. Hopefully this will be the first of several MD-500's.
Lastly I have finally added the second Ju-87 that I did last year. For some reason I never added it to the web site. I hope you enjoy.
Okay, one more last thing. I have just completed the drawing and inking of two WW I aircraft. A SPAD XIII and an Albatross DV (which I just might modify to a DIII as well) So look for those soon. And Yes I still have the tanks on the back burner. I will get to those.
April 1, 2010 "New Art Added"
Happy April Fools day! So how many times were you fooled today? Well no fooling here, today we add our first General Dynamics F-111 Aardvark. First up, (I hope to do at least one more in USA markings, unless there are orders for more... hint hint hint) we have an Royal Australian Air Force, F-111C from 6th Squadron based at Amberley, Queensland. The paint scheme is in celebration of the units 90th Anniversary. Late this year the RAAF will retire their F-111's and transition to F/A-18F's. No 1 and 6th Squadrons will be making the transition. No 6th Sq acts as the training squadron. I will see if I can do a No 6th Sq F/A-18F and put both the Hornet and Aardvark in a special commemorative print. Australia is the last and only other country to operate the F-111. The US retired their F-111's in the late 90's.
Look for a USAF version of the F-111 soon. Now that this caricature is completed I just need to figure out which unit to do next..... anyone have any suggestions please don't hesitate to email me. Keep the memory, of this great aircraft alive, and order your print now. Custom markings for your unit are just a email away.
March 28, 2010 "New Art Added"
Well it's late here as I finally get around to updating, but I need to add a few new caricatures. Recently I had a customer request a Boeing 767 caricature in TWA colors, plus he wanted it in the farewell print format. So here we have exactly that, a new caricature of the Boeing 767. As you can see it is just like the Northwest Farewell print but this version has the retirement dates of not only TWA but one of TWA's pilots, Mr. Dennis West. This new option is a new twist on my Farewell series, with retirement dates for pilot as well as Airline. Now all 767 (and DC-10) pilots can have their very own commemorative print. So jump on the bandwagon and request your very own. I hope to be doing more airliners soon, which will added to the Farewell print series.
The second caricature we add is another F-102A, this time from the 199th FIS, 154th FW of the Hawaii Air Guard. This is another commission piece requested by a former ANG pilot that flew F-102's with the 199th FIS. If there are any other HANG pilots out there fell free to email me and order your customized print. I also added a few tee shirts and mugs at my Zazzle store.
And lastly we add a new warbird caricature, a Consolidated PBY-5A Catalina. It's amazing how much stuff I learn while researching these caricatures. I have been looking to do a PBY for some time. It's a natural for making a good caricature. Like so many of my art works I sometimes start drawing and painting before I know exactly which paint scheme or unit markings I might choose. This was exactly the case here. As I worked on the caricatures I started looking up and reading about PBY's and units that flew them. After a time I came across VP-73. I wanted my art work to have a bit of color so I knew that I would do an early WWII paint scheme carried by many US Navy aircraft, which had red and white tail strips and the red circle in US insignia ( note: most Navy aircraft painted out the red circle and painted over the red and white strips by mid 1942 so this aircraft is show before the change). I came across a picture of some VP-73 PBY's (still carrying the red and white strips) that were stationed in Skerjafjordur FAB, near Reykjavik, Iceland, from May to Oct- 1942. During this time aircraft number 9, buNu 2459 was credited with sinking, two U-boats. U-464 on Aug. 20, 1942 (piloted by Lt(jg) Robert B. Hapgood, for which he won the Navy Cross) and U-582 on Oct. 5, 1942 while piloted by G.F. Swanson. Altogether this aircraft finished the war with an impressive war record. Credited with sinking 3 U-boats and damaging 4 more, which is a record for patrol/ bombers on sub duty. So what started out as a simple caricature turns into a tribute to those who flew in harsh weather to protect convoys in the Battle for the Atlantic. Take a minute to check it out. I really liked doing this art work and put as much detail and weathering as I could. I think its one of the better caricatures here on the site. It is amazing how my art grows and evolves. I look back on some of my earlier stuff and it looks so plain compared to what I am doing now. I hope you all enjoy them as much as I do in creating them.
Announcement!!! I have sent in my application for vendor space at the upcoming Planes of Fame Airshow in May. This annual airshow showcases the museum's flyable aircraft and many other warbirds. It is one of the best shows for those that love warbird aircraft. I hope to have a booth at the show where you can come by and see the art up close, buy your favorite print and to say Hi. This will be my first airshow, so I hope everyone can come out and support Blackheart Art. Once I am confirmed, I will let you know. I have also completed a new print especially for the show. This print will be available only at the show, so make your plans now. May 15-16th, 2010.
Well that's it for tonight. I noticed I have not posted the second Ju-87 which I did awhile back so I will get around to posting that next time. Have a good one and I hope you enjoy the art. As usual if you have any suggestions for new caricatures please drop me a line.
March 9, 2010 "New Art Added"
Good day my friends! Today we have 4, yes 4 new caricatures. Over the past few weeks I have been working with the Commanding Officer of MALS-11 down at MCAS Miramar on a special print. He was looking for something a little different to use as a parting gift, when members of the squadron move on to other assignments. His idea was to have all the fixed wing aircraft they provide logistics for to be part of a special print. To that end I have been creating caricatures of the 6 Hornet squadrons and the KC-130J Squadron that are based at Miramar. I have already posted several, Hornets plus the KC-130J. Today I add the rest of the Hornets. First up we have a F/A-18A++ from VMFA-314 "Black Knights". While I have tried to use each squadrons colorful commanding officer's aircraft, VMFA-314 really does not have a aircraft painted in colorful markings so here we have an example of the low viz scheme with just a touch of color.
Next up we have two F/A-18D's. One from VMFA(AW)-121 Green Knights and one from VMFA(AW)-225 "Vikings". The Hornet from VMFA(AW)-225 looks to be caring a form of nose art and had the name "Miss Understood" on the fence, or dorsal fin located on the LEX part of the wing. The Green Knights have the name Joe Foss on their dorsal fin, in honor of the famous World War II Marine pilot. This should complete all the fixed wing squadrons based at MCAS Miramar. So lets hope all those squadrons see their aircraft caricatures, and thank the members of MALS-11 for bringing them to life. Imagine these fine art works gracing the walls of your ready rooms, or better yet being sold at the annual airshow, just imagine the amount of money you could raise selling these fine art works.
Last up today we have the newest flavor of the month. The MQ-9 Reaper. This example is from the 29th Squadron which is part of the 49th Wing based at Holloman AFB. The 29th began Reaper operations out of Holloman on Oct. 23, 2009 under the command of LTCol James Merchant.
Well there you have it, the latest caricatures. I hope you enjoy and see something you like. As always please feel free to let me know what you think and any suggestions that you may have. It's time to sit back and work on some new fresh caricatures. So I am going to grab my pencil and start working a few new aircraft. I think in honor of the coming retirement of the Australian F-111's, which will bring an end to this fine aircrafts career, I will see what I can do with that great plane. I also want to do more airliners, maybe a 747, or 707, plus I have a request for a CRJ (Canadian Regional Jet) so look for those soon. Anyway thanks to all and see you next time.
Feb 23, 2010 "New Art Added"
With each new caricature I find that my art is progressing. With this new print I think I have created a really cool looking art work. I have finally finished the E-2C Hawkeye. This aircraft flew with VAW-113 "The World Famous Black Eagles". I had an opportunity to photograph this aircraft at the Pt. Mugu airshow several years ago. She is painted as the squadrons colorful aircraft and carries the Commander of the Air Group's (CVW-14) name, Capt. "Miser" Thayer and the Deputy CAG's name, Capt. Kevin "KC" Albright. The tail markings include each squadrons colors in CVW-14. At the time VAW-113 was station at it's home port of Pt Mugu and assigned to CVW-14 and the aircraft carrier USS Abraham Lincoln. Let's here it from all you Hawkeye fans out there. Let me know what you think. Your squadron could be next.
I hope to be adding Reaper caricature very soon, have a great week.
Feb. 13, 2010 "New Art Added"
This time we add some new art, focusing one two versions of the same base aircraft. McDonnell Douglas's DC-10. First we have the Air Force KC-10-30CF Extender. The 60th Air Mobility Wing as well as the 349th AMW (Air Force Reserve) based at Travis AFB in California operate this particular aircraft, s/n 82-0193. The print includes all the patches for the 60th and 349th as well as the 4 squadrons that share this aircraft. The 6th and 9th ARS active duty, and the 70th, and 74th ARS, Air Force Reserve. (artist note, as I type these words I see that there is a typo in the text of the test print that will be corrected on the final prints.)
Second up is a DC-10-40 that was operated by Northwest Airlines. N238NW is shown in what has affectionately been call the "Bowling Shoe" livery.
In conjunction with the Northwest print, I have created a new version with special background graphics. I call this the Northwest Farewell print. In 2009 Northwest merged with Delta Airlines. I decided that to mark the end of an airline that can trace its roots back to the golden age of flight I would put together a special print. This unique print has special background graphics. These graphics include the Northwest logo carried by the DC-10 in the later part of it's career. I have included the dates for which Northwest operated, from 1926 when they were delivering mail to the final 2010 passenger flight, as well as the dates Northwest operated the DC-10, 1972 to 2007. Lastly I have included the names (and dates of the change) under which Northwest operated. I really enjoyed putting this print together. I think in the future I will try and do more of these type prints. I could do a who series of prints commemorating the last days of famous airlines. Email me and let me know what you think.
One last thing....... the Vancouver Olympics has begun, and good luck to all athletes........... oh and ..... GO TEAM USA .....USA USA USA!
Feb. 3, 2010 "New Art Added"
Well it has been awhile hasn't it. Here are some new caricatures. I have finally completed a C-130. This time we have a KC-130J. The newest Hercules tanker used by the Marines. Usually in the US Navy and Marine Corp squadrons one aircraft is designated the Commanders bird and is adorn in more colorful markings. This caricature depicts a VMGR-352 "The Raiders" KC-130J, based in San Diego, at MCAS Miramar and is part of the Third Marine Air Wing. As I do each caricature I am trying to improve the level of detail to each piece. I think this caricature is some of my best detail work to date. I have been working on my line work and trying to add some of the rivets and panel fasteners to each art work. This improves the over all look of the art. This aircraft has plenty of rivets especially on the rear section. I really like the way it came out.
Second we have a new Hornet caricature, the F/A-18D. Yes we have several Hornet caricatures, but this is the first two seat "Legacy" Hornet. With the new Super Hornet (F/A-18E/F) now operational, the older Hornets (F/A-18A/B/C/D) are know as "Legacy Hornets". So here we have our first F/A-18D. This time I choose to do a Hornet operated by VMFAT-101 "The Sharpshooters" again based at MCAS Miramar with VMGR-352.The Sharpshooters are the Marine Corps F/A-18 Hornet training squadron. In fact they also train Navy pilots that are assigned to fly the Hornet. That is why VMFAT-101 aircraft carry the words Navy on the right side and Marines on the left side of their aircraft. VFA-125 is the Navy's training Squadron for Hornet pilots as well.
Well I hope you enjoy the new art. Currently I have several caricatures in the works. I have completed the drawing and inking of a KC-10 Tanker, a Reaper UAV, and a E-2 Hawkeye. These are next on the list to be painted. In fact I have already started the Reaper. The KC-10 looks really cool and I can't wait to get to it. I also think I will be doing a airline version of the KC-10. a DC-10. I have not chosen a paint scheme yet so if anyone out there has any suggestions..... just let me know.
Jan. 9, 2010 "New Art Added"
Welcome 2010! We start of the new year with another Aggressor aircraft. This time an F-16C from the 64th AGRS operating out of Nellis AFB. This unit works hand in hand with the 65th AGRS who fly the F-15C. They provide realistic adversary training for air crews in the ACM area. Their motto "Know, Teach, Replicate" is key to the approach they take in flying their missions. Just as the F-15's of the 65th AGRS, the 64th utilize paint schemes that mimic that of Mig's and Su, aircraft. This aircraft also carries the AN/ALQ- 188 electronic warfare training pod. Which I have nicknamed the jumping frog. It just looks like a jumping frog with little legs. Anyway enjoy and feel free to send me your thoughts on the new art work.
I will be putting the finishing touches on the USAF Thunderbird F-16 this coming week so look for that soon.
I hope everyone had a great holiday season.