Mimi-nashi Hoichi

For the past two years, I've been a warty procrastinator about this otherwise dream book project of mine. Based on the legendary Japanese ghost tale as recorded and published by American freak Lafcadio Hearn, Mimi-nashi Hoichi, in its final majestic letterpress and linoleum block illustrated form promises to be something actually worth reading.

I've decided to post some of my sketches for the project, regardless of the fact that I broke down and recruited goth/metal bass goddess and illustrator extraordinaire, Lorraine Rath, to do my heavy lifting for me (whimper). Comments and virtual tomatoes actually welcomed. I'd like one of these days to actually learn how to draw in perspective rather than forever going superflat, as if the drawings would just peel off the page.

Hair of the Dog

lovely snaps taken on the night of the reception, courtesy of my lil' crumb cake, Minette Mangahas, who blessed be, actually remembers to bring important documentation devices like cameras to such gatherings. Many thanx to all of you who braved the darkness and the florid vibes of Fruitvale to make this thunderous groundbreaking event for me.

Verdant paradise found on 50th state

Tho I'm a Californian by pedigree (got the anvils to prove it), both my older sister and younger brother were both both born in Honolulu, and consequently I spent the first seven years of my childhood in Hawaii. Went back in November (Honululu) and February (Maui). Doug works the yum yum magic behind the scenes at Alan Wong's restaurant, when he's not found peering off the lava ridden coasts of O'ahu.

Animal menagerie