Ben Steers Illustration

Say hello to Prefab 77

2011-11-16T11:20:00.003Z

Prefab 77 are creators of fast, hard-egged, stripped down art work, mainly screen prints and the collective believe their work has never seemed so relevant as now, with a country united by frustration and unease. With a heritage steeped in a volatile history or unions, struggles and movements, Prefab 77 is recognisable for being political, sometimes anti-establishment- yet always beautiful.

Prefab 77, by their own admission, aren’t interested in being named individually, but this much they can share. There are 3 of them in the collective, all from Newcastle Upon Tyne, one who spent 10 years working in LA and New York, and they have worked as a collective for the last 7 years.

The trio work closely together on more than just Prefab77, dividing their time between running a design studio, and their own creative shop come gallery, constantly dreaming up the next Prefab77 screen print idea or waiting to get inspired. Even if its just scribbling or generating ideas the guys are always working on Prefab 77, generally producing around 4 brand new prints a year, alongside one off pieces on steel, wood, canvas, whatever they can get their hands on.

They site such inspiration as coming from far and wide, with a fondness for all things relating to England and its staunch heritage. Combine this with a dose of 70’s music memorabilia in the shape of vintage NME magazines and you have their anarchic, bold style, which has become their calling card.

If you'd like to see more examples of Prefab work then click here to view their portfolio of highly impressive work.

Bristol in the mist

2011-10-28T14:27:00.003+01:00

Woke up to a beautiful Autumn morning this morning and felt compelled to take some photos outside the studio. I particularly liked how the early morning sun light caught the telephone box and illuminated it against the misty backdrop of the docks.

Red Bull Revolutions in Sound

2011-10-14T10:48:00.004+01:00

Last night saw the launch of the Red Bulls Revolutions in Sound event on the London Eye. Thirty DJ's including Skream & Benga, Ms Dynamite, Hessle Audio, Andy Weatherall, L-Vis 1990 and Ben Westbeech put on private parties in each of the 30 capsules. I was lucky enough to get invited to join Andy Weatherall and 20 other lucky punters on Capsule #7 for two full rotations of the wheel, along with free drinks and views of London at night. With a quick sliding of the doors we headed up into the sky to the ambient sounds of deep ambient house, which gradually picked up tempo resulting in some snare clapping disco. With free drinks and our own bar man on board, I had to pinch myself on a number of occasions at the completely surreal situation I was in.

I count myself truly lucky to have experienced such an amazing musical event and can only offer up a few wobbly iPhone shots as a means of illustrating how incredible it was. Congratulations Red Bull, you have out done yourselves once again.

Steve Jobs (1955-2011)

2011-10-06T16:51:00.007+01:00

Following the tragic news of the loss of the visionary pioneer and ex-Apple CEO Steve Jobs on 5th October 2011 I decided to put together a tribute piece to help raise money for the cancer charity Pancreatic Cancer UK.

Steve Jobs was an innovator and true visionary who single handily pulled Apple out of the ashes and introduced the world to ground breaking products such as the iMac, iPhone, iPod and iPad.

I only have to look around my desk to see the huge impact that Steve and Apple have had on my life. I run my entire work setup on Apple products and ignoring the critics and cynicism for one minute, what a different world we would now inhabit if it wasn't for the greatness of one man.

It's not often that I feel the need to create a tribute piece, in fact this is the first I've done of this nature but hearing the news this morning I felt compelled to create something in honour of Steve Jobs' memory and that would help raise money for such a good cause.

This limited edition digital print named after a Steve Jobs quote "Your time is limited, so don't waste it living someone else's life" is now available via my shop. All proceeds from the sale of the prints will go directly to the charity.

Images 35

2011-09-28T11:59:00.002+01:00

As I have been away I have not yet had a chance to blog about this.

I'm very excited to announce that I have made it into the new issue of the Images series from the Asssociation of Illustrators - Images 35. There are some incredible talents within the 365 pages of this years book including the likes of Peskimo, Simon Spilsbury, Stanley Chow and David Sparshott.

If you can get your hands on a copy then I would highly recommend it. Great work as awlways from the lovely folk at the AOI.

Nightmare High sneak peak

2011-08-24T16:39:00.005+01:00

Flesh eating teachers, brain scanning machines, evil sky rockets and the most mighty packed lunchbox in the history of the universe all feature in Nightmare High, a new game from Channel Four which Somethin' Else and our brilliant collaborators at Player Three and Coney been lovingly crafting throughout 2011.

The game is designed to help 10-13 year olds as they move up to big school, and with life transitions in general. Unfortunately for the players the game starts seconds before reality explodes and they end up in the worst type of big school imaginable. Their mission is to fix reality by playing through fourteen episodes of brilliant chaos, with the help of some fanciful friends and terrifying teachers (thanks to @neillieb and @neilrichards, the script and story-writers).

The character design and illustration style was conceived by myself at Fiasco Design, and further developed by Player Three. The game launches in September 2011, just in time for the new school year.

See No Evil 2011

2011-08-19T12:05:00.003+01:00

This week has seen the otherwise bleak Nelson Street in Bristol transformed into a walk through gallery and with 2 days left of painting still to go, it is looking incredible.

Crews and painters from all over the world and the UK have converged on what has become a concrete playground. Talents and legends by the names of Tats Crew, Nick Walker, Inkie, El Mac and Mr Jago have all been involved and helped to transform a bleak, grey street in Bristol into Europe's most ambitious urban art event.

I will be posting up more photos as the days go on so do keep those peepers locked and if you're in the area over the coming days or weeks, be sure to pop down. You won't be disappointed.

For more info on all things evil visit the See No Evil website here.

2011-08-19T12:03:00.000+01:00

2011-08-19T12:01:00.000+01:00

2011-08-19T11:55:00.000+01:00

Aryz goes big for See No Evil event

2011-08-15T10:37:00.002+01:00

This week see's the launch of Europe's most ambitious street art event. See No Evil has been curated and put together by Bristol's own Inkie and will bare witness to some of the worlds most renowned urban artists. International artists such as Tats Cru, El Mac and UK based artists Nick Walker and Zeus will take to the derelict Nelson St and transform and otherwise lifeless street into a walk through art gallery.

This event promises to be big and Spanish artist Aryz has already set the bar with this massive one-man piece painted over this weekend. If this is a sign of things to come, then you don't want to miss out on this weekend's events.

For more info on everything going on this weekend, check out the See No Evil website here.

Orange Wednesdays

2011-08-05T10:18:00.002+01:00

The lovely folk at Poke London got in touch with me and asked if I'd like to help them with a competition they were running on behalf of Orange Wednesday. In anticipation of the launch of the new Captain America film, Orange were offering a free trip to New York for the best superhero alternative as suggested by fans of their Facebook page.

Peoples suggestions were archived and the best 2 from each day were sent on to me to illustrate.

The competition ran for a week and resulted in me producing 16 unique superhero characters which I have now put into one neat A3 poster.

If you'd like to get your hands on one then do let me know, otherwise, I hope you enjoy the fruits of my labour. Big thanks to Martin and Scott at Poke London for putting the work my way.

Computer Arts Issue Issue 191

2011-08-02T17:12:00.002+01:00

The latest issue of Computer Arts is a bumper issue that features a free 50-page design book, The Incredibly Useful Book for Creative Professionals Vol II and features tips and advice from industry professionals as well as small 5 step tutorial from yours truly on how to create handmade print effects in Illustrator.

Be sure to grab a copy of Issue 191 as it's a great issue jam packed with design advice from some of the best in the business.

New prints in the shop

2011-06-29T15:00:00.004+01:00

I've just had a batch of new prints land on my desk courtesy once again of Rik at Ripe Digital. Digitally printed on a Tintoretto Gesso 250gsm stock you could be forgiven for thinking they were litho printed. The quality is second to none and they are going for just £15 an A3 through my shop. Edition of 50, snap em up whilst they last.

Painting for Sublime Bar, Bristol

2011-06-20T12:03:00.005+01:00

Been a while since I got down and dirty with some paint. I was asked, along with a good friend of mine to paint the front of the bar at the Sublime Bar. The brief was completely open and required a bright and playful piece. We decided to create a patterned piece with some elements from the bar and local area.

Always good to get back to the hands of approach and nice to have a happy client at the end of it. Watch this space for more from us and Sublime Bar.

Quad Bike prints

2011-06-16T11:41:00.005+01:00

Had a batch of prints land on my desk this morning, printed by the lovely folk at Ripe Digital.

Printed digitally on a textured 240 GSM Indigo stock, the colours have come out perfectly and they look ace. Going to be sending these out to a few folk and selling them through my site.

If you'd like to get your paws on one then do let me know.

They're going for £15 plus p&p. Get in touch.

Fixed & What Sneak-a-Peak

2011-06-16T11:28:00.003+01:00

I've just completed an illustration for the new Fixed Gear bike London publication

Fixed & What.

The second issue of the newsprint printed magazine launches on 25th June in London at Look Mum No Hands. If you're in London, make sure you go check it out. More here.

Crack Magazine

2011-06-06T10:11:00.002+01:00

The chaps at Crack Magazine kindly asked if I would like to create an illustration for their centre spread and I was only to happy to oblige. Being a big fan of bikes, and knowing the strength of the cycling community in Bristol, I thought it only right that I create a piece that encapsulated that community spirit. Printed digitally on a 45gsm newsprint stock, the piece has come out really well and I'm dead chuffed with the results.

Big thanks to Tom and Jake at Crack Magazine. Be sure to visit their site for all things

Crack related.

Crack Magazine Sneak Peak

2011-05-26T12:19:00.003+01:00

Here's a little sneak peak at what I've been doing for Crack Magazine over the last couple of days.

The full illustration will feature as the monthly magazines centre fold poster. The issue is due out next week so will post some photos when I have them. In the meantime, why not visit the Crack website? You love it.

Hori Smoku Sailor Jerry Bristol screening

2011-05-19T16:27:00.004+01:00

Hori Smoku Sailor Jerry is a feature length documentary exploring the roots of American tattooing through the life of its most iconoclastic figure, Norman "Sailor Jerry" Collins.

The project is touring and similar events have taken place in Australia, South Africa, America and Europe.

There will be a special private showing of the documentary film at the Cube cinema, Bristol on Wednesday 1st June. There will also be a whole load of free Sailor Jerry rum to help set the tone.

The screening is invite only so you need to get in touch with Sarah on feeney@sailorjerry.com and include ref. Ben

Don't delay as it promises to be quite an event.

For more info click here

Commemorative Coca Cola boxset

2011-05-11T09:21:00.002+01:00

To mark the 125th anniversary of Coca Cola, Coke have decided to launch a commemorative box set to mark the iconic brand's birthday. Coke have reproduced 4 of their original glass bottles and the set comes in a branded wooden box. The box set is only available through Selfridges and would make a lovely collectors piece.

Fresh stuff from Blu in Poland

2011-05-10T13:37:00.003+01:00

Blu's been at it again. On a recent trip to Poland the street artist Blu, renowned for his large-scale murals and paintings across Europe, completed this monster piece with a clear and direct message about the fundamental principals of religion. A powerful statement in an area of the world that has built its foundations on Catholicism. You can see more of Blu's work here.

Fresh stuff from Todd McLellan

2011-05-06T19:43:00.002+01:00

Disassembly by Todd McLellan is an intricate set of images taken of old items disassembled.

The Canadian photographer disassmbles old items such as cameras, lawnmowers and clocks and neatly displays them for shooting. The result is a nostalgic series of images from times past. You can see more of Todd's work here.

2011-04-27T11:26:00.004+01:00

Welcome to the Royal Easter Egg Hunt!

It's Easter, well it was, but due to some technical issues I wasn't able to launch this over the Easter weekend as intended. So better late than never I bring you the late, great Easter egg hunt.

The game is simple: there are 5 spotted eggs hidden within my site, each of different colour. It's your objective to find these 5 eggs. I will be dropping clues via twitter throughout the day incase your struggling as some of the eggs are rather well hidden.

Once you have found all 5 eggs send an email to info@bensteers.com with the location of all 5 and I will select 5 people at random to receive some special Easter goody bags which will include limited edition prints, postcards, stickers and more.

You have until midnight tonight to find those eggs, so get cracking.

2011-04-27T11:12:00.005+01:00

Design your own Easter Egg character

For a little bit of fun I thought I would set up a gallery of Egg-pic proportions. I have created an Egg template for you lovely yolk to download. The idea is simple: download the pdf file from the following link, extract the Egg template, create your very own Easter Egg character and send it back to me at info@bensteers.com.

Every entry I receive I will post up on my blog and give a plug on the social networks. The best designed egg will also be sent a goody basket containing prints, postcards, stickers and more.

It's just a little bit of fun, so get cracking and if I get enough entries I may even put them together as a one-off downloadable wallpaper.

Bit late but happy Easter y'all!

Digital Artist Positive and Negative Space tutorial

2011-04-13T14:23:00.002+01:00

I recently completed a tutorial for the folks at Digital Artist magazine on how to use positive and negative space within your work to best effect. I wanted to try something a little different to what I was used to in the way of subject matter and style. I based my tutorial on the cranes of Bristol's harbourside and used the negative space created by the arms of these cranes as my subject matter. I was pretty happy with how the image came out and the issue contains some work by some great artists including Bex Glover,Marc Aspinall of Treehouse Press and Ollie Mundan.

If your in your local newsagents, why not go and pick up a copy...

Final day of Berlin and Pictoplasma con...

2011-04-11T17:24:00.002+01:00

Final day of Berlin and Pictoplasma con...

2011-04-11T17:23:00.002+01:00

Final day of Berlin and Pictoplasma con...

2011-04-11T17:21:00.001+01:00

Final day of Berlin and Pictoplasma

2011-04-11T17:10:00.002+01:00

So the final day's brought sun and exploration as head hit up the last of the talks and screenings and took advantage of the good weather by heading in the cultural districts of Berlin.

We visited the East Side Gallery where 1km of the original Berlin wall stands in the shadows of an O2 arena big enough to house all of Justin Bieber's twitter fans. I slightly ironic salute to the extent of development to the area in just over 20 years.

Following this we spent time wandering the streets of east Berlin, finding little bike shops and floating bars all drenched in the beautiful afternoon sun, a sun that we had been massively lacking over previous days.

The final night of the festival brought about the final performance, marking the end of the festival for 2011. A 2 hour show entitled The Missing Link focused on the subject of this years event. Beautifully crafted yeti's prancing and masturbating on stage were followed by some incredible live music visual displays as well as some not so incredible piano playing and singing (I say singing, I mean moaning).

The after-after party went on into the night and saw the big names mingling with the audience until the early hours. A fitting end to a mixed bag for this years Pictoplasma festival.

Berlin and Pictoplasma Day 4 con...

2011-04-08T18:53:00.003+01:00

Berlin and Pictoplasma Day 4

2011-04-08T18:35:00.003+01:00

Day 4 saw an earlier start and feeling slightly fresher than the morning before. The morning kicked off with an hour long screening of some of the newest commercial and self-initiated animation. Shorts included work by the likes of H5, Jamie Hewlett & Pete Candeland, David Wilson and Mathieu Auvray.

Followed on from this was talks by the very funny Ryan Quincy, Motomichi Nakamura and SFA-Zentrale.

The afternoon brought sunshine and an excuse to ride bikes around the city and a ridiculously slow pace and visiting the Bauhaus Art Museum and East Side Gallery. Plenty more in store tonight but will have to let you know more about all that tomorrow.

Berlin and Pictoplasma Day 3 con...

2011-04-07T18:53:00.003+01:00

Photos from the uber talented McBess, Rilla Alexandra, Jeremy Dower and Bristol's own Gav Strange as part of the Lunartik tea cup exhibition

Berlin And Pictoplasma: Day 3 con...

2011-04-07T18:48:00.004+01:00

Random assortment of flicks including Guitar by McBess, characters by the Crim Collective and Miss Fran Pearce inappropriately touching a plush Dude Factory toy!

Berlin and Pictoplasma: Day 3 con...

2011-04-07T18:45:00.002+01:00

Photos from the JeremyVille and Lunartik shows

Berlin and Pictoplasma: Day 3

2011-04-07T11:19:00.004+01:00

Day 3 saw the launch of the Inkygoodness Totem show as well as the Pictoplasma Character walk where 25 galleries within a square mile open up their doors to all things character based. Gallery openings included shows by the likes of Matt Jones aka Lunartik, McBess, Jeremyville and Rilla.

Following a 4 hour walk round some incredible galleries, we headed back to the Inkygoodness show and witnessed a steady stream of people come through the door all night. Ryan Quincy, Director of Animation for South Park who hosts the gallery adjacent to ours was roaming around sporting a huge hand crafted outfit of one of his characters.

Following the success of the launch we headed to the after party at HBC and drank rum to the sounds of German techno.

Berlin and Pictoplasma: Day 2 con...

2011-04-06T08:28:00.001+01:00

Berlin and Pictoplasma: Day 2

2011-04-06T07:57:00.002+01:00

Following a rather busy first day, the second of our trip to Berlin for the Pictoplasma Animation Festival and Inkygoodness Totem exhibition proved to be just as busy. With only one day to the launch of the Character Walk, which see's 25 galleries and pop up spaces open their doors to character designers from around the world, there was still a lot to be done in order to get the space up to scratch. Totems needed to be positioned, walls needed to be painted, pictures framed and further Berliner's drunk. I had the task of creating a black and white tree for the frames to hang on, one which I may have gone a little ambitious on. Meanwhile Burt Van Vijk still had his totem to finish and the wonderful Felt Mistress arrived to hang her custom built felt totem.

Another long day that didn't see us finish until gone 8 o'clock and with still a few things to tidy uo and finish off, it's the final morning of preparation before we open the doors to the public at noon today.

Berlin and Pictoplasma: Day 1 con...

2011-04-05T10:12:00.002+01:00

Berlin and Pictoplasma: Day 1 con...

2011-04-05T10:09:00.002+01:00

Berlin and Pictoplasma: Day 1

2011-04-05T09:14:00.004+01:00

After a rather bumpy landing courtesy of EasyJet on Sunday we settled into our apartment a stones throw from the city centre and hit the local (next door) for a true Berlin homemade brewed lager. After an early night, Monday was the start of set-up in our centrally located gallery space ahead of Wednesday's launch. Possibly one of the best located galleries on the entire walk, you find it by walking through an alley way and up a rather decorated flight of steps. Buffering a gorgeous book and record shop, the space is large and light, providing perfect housing for all 35 custom painted and decorated totems. In the gallery space adjacent to ours we find the very talented Ryan Quincy, Animation Director for South Park, exhibiting over 20 new paintings and works. A beautiful setting for what promises to be quite a show by the team at Inkygoodness.

More photos to come as the day's progress.

Pictoplasma & Inkygoodness promo material

2011-04-02T15:10:00.004+01:00

The Pictoplasma Animation Festival and Inkygoodness exhibition are only a few days away and in preparation for flying out to Berlin tomorrow I have prepared some promo bits in the form of postcards, business cards and stickers to take out with me. Printed by the lovely folks at RipeDigital on a smooth 350gsm matt uncoated stock, the cards have come out really well. All I need to do now is trim down 500 stickers...

Pictoplasma Character Walk

2011-03-22T08:57:00.002Z

As part of the annual Pictoplasma festival, this year held in Berlin, the inkygoodness team and myself will be heading out there to exhibit over 20 6ft high totems designed by artists and illustrators from around the world. The show is part of the Character Walk which takes place through the city and involves 23 different galleries, all aimed at character design.

Below is a map to outline the full extent and scale of this 5-day extravaganza.

Totem-goodness

2011-03-18T16:52:00.003Z

So my Totem for the upcoming inkygoodness show in Berlin is finally complete and with the weather being as lovely as it is I thought we should pop outside and photograph him. I've yet to name him but I'm pretty happy with how he turned out and he's even wearing a cheeky pair of chaps. The Totems by over 20 national and international artists are due to be shipped out to Berlin next week so they can take their place on the character walk as part of the annual Pictoplasma conference.

Twitter giveaway

2011-03-14T10:36:00.002Z

End of last week I did a little twitter giveaway and got a few of these printed to send out to a select few followers. Printed at Hello Blue printers in Bristol, these A4 Giclee prints were printed on a 350gsm German Etching paper and they look lovely. I will be adding these to my shop soon but if you would like to get your hands on a copy then please get in touch and I will be happy to send one out to you for a nominal cost.

Character Totems

2011-03-10T14:02:00.003Z

The Inkygoodness team are heading out to Berlin at the beginning of April to take part in the bi-annual character conference Pictoplasma. The 3 day long conference features a character walk, a whole street of pop up galleries featuring character design work from illustrators and animators the world over.

I am honoured to be taking part in this very special event and will myself be flying out Berlin in April to join the team in the festivities. This years event features talks from the likes of McBess, Jeremyville, Ryan Quincy and Matt Jones. If you'd like to find out more or see what it's all about then you can visit the official Pictoplasma website and maybe we'll even see you there.

Computer Arts Issue 185 tutorial

2011-02-10T10:14:00.002Z

This month's issue of Computer Arts apart from featuring work from the stupidly talented Stuart Kolakovic, Janine Rewell, Jules Julien and Lucy Arid also hosts a 12-step tutorial by myself on how to create a character with a retro feel. Another top class issue by the people at Future Publishing. Go out and grab a copy, you won't be disappointed.

Just in time for Valentines day

2011-02-10T09:09:00.002Z

Struggling to find that ideal card for a loved one or partner? Trying to do things on the cheap? Well lucky for you I'v whipped up a special Valentines card available for you to download just in time for V-Day. Saves a trip down the shops and a couple of quid! Just remember, its the thought that counts.

The A5 card comes with a V-Day message on the front, blank middle section for you to scrawl your messages of undying love in and a /1 on the back so you can mark it and tell your loved one that it's a one of a kind, just like him/her. Just print, fold on the dotted line and your sorted.

How cool is this?

2011-02-08T14:20:00.002Z

Now if the London Underground looked like this I would have no qualms about taking a ride into central. Amazing photos from a Swedish subway station. View more here.

Could Spring me here?

2011-02-08T14:09:00.003Z

I took a stroll at lunchtime to enjoy the warmth of the midday sun, something I haven't been able to experience for god know's how long. I'm not going to lie, it felt pretty damn good. Strolling round the docks of Bristol I felt compelled to take a few snaps using the Hipstamatic app for the iPhone. Great effects that add an almost daydream like effect to an altogether beautiful day. Few more days like this wouldn't go a miss.

Digital Artist Issue 16 tutorial

2011-01-25T12:28:00.003Z

The latest issue of Digital Artist is finally out and features work by the likes of Ollie Munden, Marc Aspinall, Greig Rapson, Iramadillo boy as well as 30-step tutorial from myself on how to design your very own character.

Big thanks as always to April Madden for the opportunity and if you're in your local newsagents be sure to pick up a copy. Jam packed with illustrated goodness.

Computer Arts tutorial

2011-01-19T17:34:00.003Z

The upcoming issue of Computer Arts features a 12-step tutorial by myself on how to create a vintage looking character. Here's the final image, created especially for the tutorial. The issue is out at the end of this month so be sure to go out and grab a copy :)

Oh and a Happy New Year!

Dreamboat

2010-12-17T15:10:00.002Z

The Dreamboat vs Inkygoodness show is currently running at the Start Space in Bristol, featuring a whole host of very talented people including Dave Bain, Carlos Garde-Martin, Jason Devine, Iain Sellar, Middleboop, Steve Rack and Toy Factory. This is my "little" contribution to proceedings!

Live scribbling at Mr Wolfs

2010-12-15T10:30:00.002Z

Thursday 9th December saw the latest installment of the Dirty Old Town night's at Mr Wolf's, Bristol. Myself and Mr Lee "What" Summers took to the boards armed only with our trusty posca pens. As well as visual treats, the night also hosted some top acts including A State of Mind (support band to Wax Tailor), as well as local Dj's Mr Soulsbury, Skint and Rackabeat and Bar-Low. Was real happy with how it all went and think myself and Mr Summers will be scribbling together again real soon!

Inkygoodness' Dreamboat show

2010-12-13T10:02:00.002Z

Friday night saw the launch of the latest installment of Inkygoodness at the Start Gallery, Bristol. Showcasing work from over 25 illustrators from around the country including Carlos Garde-Martin, Colourbox, Dave Bain, Jason Devine, Lisa Hassell, Middleboop, Stephen Chan and a whole host of others.

The show runs from now until the 30th December, be sure not to miss it as it is a real visual treat. Below is my piece created for the show. On sale now as a limited run of 10 at a custom size of 1120x420, framed and signed. If you are interested in a purchase please let me know.

Digital Artist issue 14 Q&A

2010-12-03T16:51:00.002Z

Little Q&A I did for this months Digital Artist magazine on how to create a Heath Robinson style device. The issue also features work from talents such as Simon Wild (cover design), JamFactory aka Gavin Strange, Victo Ngai and Sticky Pop. A great issue this month, so be sure to check i out.

Computer Arts Projects

2010-12-03T15:42:00.004Z

I was recently commissioned by Alan Wardle at Computer Arts Projects to complete an editorial illustration for an article they were running in their APP issue. The brief was simple: a hoard of different characters marching upon an unsuspecting app store attendant. Nice!

I set to work and spent two days creating the scene and characters. I was really chuffed with how it came out and it looks great in print. The issue is out now and contains some great work from the likes of Steven Bonner, CreativeWax and Alexis West.

Digital Arts December: Tutorial

2010-11-19T13:26:00.003Z

A little 8 step tutorial that I completed for Digital Arts magazine is in this months (December 2010) edition of the magazine. The issue also includes work from illustrator talents such as Steven Bonner, Ollie Munden and Fabio Sasso. The issue also featured a section on the All I want for Christmas cards project. Top!

New free wallpaper

2010-11-18T15:11:00.003Z

Please feel free to download one of the following 3 sizes for your desktop. Will be uploaded to the site soon but this will have to do for now. Enjoy.

Sizes from top to bottom:

1024x768

1280x854

1440x900

Spot of painting...

2010-11-15T12:51:00.002Z

Just a few shots from the painting I did for Start the Bus last month. Myself, Dave Bain, Lisa Hassell and Camille Dorbrin were asked to come down and jazz up the exterior walls with a spot of painting. Done over a period of 3 weekends (slow drying paint and bad weather) this is the final result. Enjoy :)

Versus card designs unveiled

2010-11-12T14:00:00.002Z

Last night saw the launch of the Versus card project which included the likes of Iain Sellar, Tom Lane, Aaron Miller and Camille Dorbrin. 13 illustrators were each assigned a number or other (Jack, Queen, King) to design and I was given the Aces. Lucky ol me! Since the launch has come and gone I can finally reveal my 4 designs. Simple in content but hopefully effective. The Versus show runs at the Start Space in Bristol until 19th November. If you are in the area, be sure to check it out. Enjoy.

Movember T-Shirt is number 1!

2010-11-12T13:36:00.002Z

My design for the Movember t-shirt competition run by the guys at Spunky Clothing is the highest selling design and has temporarily sold out. Hurrah! More will be in stock soon which is great news as £5 from every t-shirt sold goes directly to the prostate cancer charity they are supporting.

Digital Artist Magazine

2010-11-08T11:18:00.003Z

This months Digital Artist magazine features a 6-page interview with myself as well as work and tutorials from Stickpop, Lesley Barnes, Matt Saunders and Mr Bingo. Be sure to check out next months issue for a little tutorial from myself.

Versus card project

2010-11-08T10:13:00.002Z

Here is a first cheeky glimpse of what the Versus card packs which launch this Thursday at the Start Space, Bristol will look like. The project includes 13 artists including myself, Aaron Miller, Iain Sellar, Edna, Supefex and a whole host of others. If your in town on Thursday then do pop along as it promises to be quite the show.

http://liquidlizard.co.uk/versus/

Digital Arts creative showcase

2010-10-29T09:44:00.002+01:00

The November Issue of Digital Arts featured a showcase on myself and my work. Great to get a bit of exposure through such an established magazine and big thanks to Neil Bennett at Digital Arts who sorted this out. I also have a tutorial step-by-step guide in the next issue so please keep your eyes peeled for that.

Free Download

2010-10-29T09:37:00.002+01:00

Here is a little free wallpaper for all you lovely folks to download and add as your desktops wallpaper. Dimensions are 1440x900. More are available if you need them. Thank you to all my Twitter followers, this one's for you :)

Digital Arts

2010-10-21T15:01:00.001+01:00

Little feature of some of my work in this month's Digital Arts Magazine. Will be getting some better photos but here's a little look-see for now. Enjoi.

Boneshaker print

2010-10-01T15:16:00.002+01:00

Little idea for some 2 colour limited edition Boneshaker Magazine "Crossed Cranks" screen print. What do you all think? Comments on a postcard please...

Studio shots

2010-10-01T14:45:00.002+01:00

Few new shots of the studio we moved into earlier this month. Going to do a serious shoot when we can get hold of the lights etc but here's a little insight into where I spend most of my time doing very little!

How stupid do I look?

2010-09-29T10:26:00.002+01:00

I wouldn't normally post stuff like this but this really made me chuckle. I mean honestly, how stupid do I look?:

Dear Beloved,

May the peace of the Lord always be with you .
My name is Rev Sis Joyce Emanuela. I am 79 years old now and I have been
bedridden for the past 5years. Now I believe that my time has come to join
my ancestors in heaven.

I got your email address from the Internet as the spirit of Almighty God
directed me to contact you for this charitable work.
I have $8,000,000.00 deposited in a safe location which I want you to have
on my behalf for an important charitable project. I choose to hand over
this money to you for this charitable work which I know you have desired
for people in need. I hope you will honestly do this for me, if yes please
forward to me your particulars and your contact information like private
phone and fax numbers so that I will send it to the Finance firm
immediately for claims.

Finally, I will like you to inform me what you do for a living so that I
can be able to know if your work is going to allow you to handle this
project that I am committing into your hands to the glory of God. Get back
to me as soon as possible.

Thanking you and remain blessed in the Lord.

Rev. Sis Joyce Emanuela

Boneshaker "Crossed Cranks" T-Shirts

2010-09-28T14:52:00.003+01:00

The newest range of Boneshaker's "Crossed Cranks" T-Shirts (created by myself and the guys at Boneshaker) are now on sale through the Boneshaker website for just £15. Get em whilst they're hot as they're flying off the shelves fast. More to come very soon...

Postcard giveaway

2010-09-14T19:11:00.003+01:00

I created a some postcards to give away at the Inkygoodness show and decided to use my image from the A Beautiful Machine show I took part in last year. Really happy with how these have come out and managed to shift all those that I took dow to the show.

Postcard packs

2010-09-14T19:06:00.002+01:00

I put together some postcard packs for the Inkygoodness show. Each pack contains 3 postcards of images from the show, digitally printed and wrapped in a cellophane bag. I'v still got some spare so if you'd like a pack then please get in touch.

AMMO Magazine

2010-09-14T19:02:00.002+01:00

Got my copy of AMMO through in the post over the weekend and it looks tip-top. I am proud to be involved with such a great little publication and a big thanks to the creative director Dave for having me involved. Hopefully we can work together again sometime soon.

Inkygoodness show

2010-09-14T18:56:00.002+01:00

The opening night of the Inkygoodness show at the East Gallery in London came and went with a bang. After opening the doors at 6pm the show saw 1000+ people pass through the doors before it eventually closed at 11pm. The whole evening was a massive success with a great time had by all those involved and some truly great artists exhibiting. Here are a few pictures from my set up at the show, just for your little peepers. Enjoi!

Inkygoodness 4 show work...

2010-08-29T18:36:00.002+01:00

Here is the first image in a series of three that I have designed, prepared and framed for the Inkygoodness 4 show coming up next week. This was an adaption of a piece created for Ammo Magazine (see previous post), trying out some new techniques with gradient meshes and opacity gradients. This one, as well as two others will be on show at the East Gallery from the 2nd September and available to buy online from my shop. All limited edition and all quality prints on German Etching paper.

Movember T-Shirt design

2010-08-29T18:30:00.002+01:00

Movember a charity aimed at raising money by asking people to grow a moustache in the month of November have asked a few illustrators to come up with T-Shirt designs based on the moustache. This one was a quick turn-around and so was kept rather simple. It's a big moustache made up of lots of little moustaches! Just in case you couldn't tell!

We find out in a few weeks whether the design goes to print so will keep you up-to-date.

Ammo Magazine

2010-08-29T18:25:00.002+01:00

Here is a sneaky preview of my recent submission to AMMO Magazines upcoming fourth publication entitled PLAY. The launch will coincide with the Inkygoodness 4 exhibition launch of the same name. Really looking forward to seeing this one in print.

Mash-Up Club night flyer

2010-08-29T18:21:00.002+01:00

New flyer design for The Bunker's weekly Mash-Up night. The client wanted a Japanese styling for this one with characters and bright colours. When thinking of a Japanese style mash-up I instantly thought of a giant DJing octopus spewing guts!

Boneshaker Magazine

2010-08-29T18:15:00.003+01:00

Boneshaker Magazine is a new quarterly publication celebrating all things bicycle. Currently in its second issue the guys at Boneshaker got in touch and asked if I could come up with a design for some stickers and badges they were getting printed for the forthcoming Bristol Bike Festival. Collaborating with John Coe we came up with this very simple but effective design. Must say I am really happy with how this has come out and look forward to seeing it on T-Shirts very soon...

Inkygoodness 4 show only 2 weeks away...

2010-08-19T08:31:00.002+01:00

Two weeks today see's the launch of the Inkygoodness 4 show entitled "Play". The show is taking place at the East Gallery off Brick Lane, London with the launch night on the 2nd September. It features a whole host of very talented artists including McBess, Simon Wild, Docvek and many many more. Hosted by the lovely Ms Lisa Hassell and Michelle Turton the night promises to be very special indeed. If you're in the area, make sure you pop down.

Thinking Caps

2010-07-06T11:46:00.002+01:00

Recently been asked by Jen Harrison of the Thinking Caps project to take part in their forthcoming event. Thinking Caps is an exhibition which will showcase 100 cycling cap designs by 100 different artists/illustrators as part of the Bristol Bike Festival in September. I'm really quite excited about this one as its going to be a real hoot designing for a cycling cap which in turn will be hand sewn and sold at auction for charity. Sweet!

NHS Illustration

2010-07-06T11:21:00.002+01:00

The guys at Scriberia got in touch at the end of last week and asked if I would be interested in submitting an image for a pitch they were doing for work with the NHS. Obviously I accepted and knocked up this image over the weekend. The brief was to create an illustration about an old man with dimentia looking rather worried in a doctors surgery. A difficult topic to cover but I was happy with the end result which will hopefully lead onto more work further down the line.

Doodling for Spunky at Glastonbury 2010

2010-07-06T11:16:00.004+01:00

The kind folks at Spunky Clothing asked if I would like to come along and do some painting for their Spunky tent at Glastonbury. An offer to good to refuse. Blazing sun, drinks and an awesome backdrop made for a rather enjoyable few hours of painting. Further pictures and a real-time video to follow.

Bedroom commission from way back...

2010-06-13T14:23:00.003+01:00

Dug up some old photos from a bedroom piece that myself and Mr Raven did back in the day. Nice clean walls with some even nicer colour combinations!

Business cards

2010-06-07T12:04:00.002+01:00

Recent business card designs for www.bensteers.com, knocked up for last weekends Upfest illustration event along with a number of illustrated Giclee A3 prints. Photos of prints to follow.

Upfest 2010

2010-06-07T10:17:00.005+01:00

Saturday 5th June 2010 was the third annual Upfest urban paint festival @ The Tobacco Factory in Bristol. Myself, Simon Mills and Dave Bain took to the boards representing Drawn Recordings in a mammoth 6 hour paint off. Hot hot work but well worthwhile when the final result looks like this...

Further pieces from the Beautiful Machine show

2010-05-26T11:06:00.003+01:00

Here are some of the best entrants from the Beautiful Machine show that took place at the end of March. Artists involved included 45RPM, Hellomatt, Matt Taylor, Melbs & Simon Wild whos work, including shots from the opening night can be seen here...

A Beautiful Machine piece auctioned for Save the Children

2010-05-26T10:43:00.003+01:00

I recently found out that the piece I created for the Beautiful Machine show back in March was sold at an online auction to raise money for Save the Children Haiti appeal. The piece entitled "Victorian Tall Bike" was sold for £92, the highest priced piece from the show which included work from artists including 45rpm, Adrian Johnson and ilovedust, so really chuffed about that. All-in-all the auction raised over £1500 for the charity. Good news all round!

Revised Common Sense Logo designs

2010-05-06T11:27:00.002+01:00

Due to certain complications I had to slightly revise my original design's for the Common Sense set of logo's. Here are the finalised logos in all their glory. The client is highly satisfied with the results and they will feature on website and any printed material.

Property of Bristol Live draw

2010-05-06T10:18:00.002+01:00

Last night myself and Mr Raven were invited down to the Property of Bristol night. A live radio show broadcast on the internet accompanied by some live drawing by myself, Nick & Tim and Iain of Property of Bristol. The whole thing is done from a living room in Bedminster, Bristol and was great fun to do. The order of the day was robots and monsters and we were all really happy with how they came out. Hopefully this will be the start of a regular thing, with Rich and Tim putting on regular nights and talks of t-shirt designs.

Big thanks to the POB boys for a very enjoyable and their generous hospitality.

Spunky T-Shirt design

2010-05-05T14:40:00.002+01:00

My design for Spunky's summer collection is finally here. "The Only way is UP" is a 4 colour design printed organically on a choice of purple or charcoal grey t-shirt. They are currently being sold through the Spunky website and through various distributors around the country for £24.99. For more info and pictures, visit the Spunky website on the following link:

http://www.spunky.co.uk/shop/p/onlyway/mens-organic-fairtrade-cotton-t-shirt/charcoa l

Enjoi!

Ink Dot piece

2010-05-03T20:58:00.003+01:00

This is the image I created for the Ink Dot show taking place at the Howies store, Bristol in June. The theme for the show is Escape and there was a simple 8 colour palette to work with including black & white.

I wanted to create something graphically simple and striking. Hopefully I'v achieved that and I'll sell a few prints on the launch night.

Live Illustration Draw line-up

2010-05-01T12:22:00.002+01:00

Here is the latest line-up for the Live Illustration Draw taking place at the Tobacco Factory in Bristol as part of the annual Up-Fest event on the 5th June. I will be painting with the talents of Dave Bain and Simon Mills at the all day draw event. If you're in the area, make sure you pop down.

Promotional material for the START launch night...

2010-04-27T17:43:00.004+01:00

March 19th saw the launch of the START gallery in the heart of Bristol. I created the START logo for the space which was in turn used on the goody bags produced by Chris Dickason and Peskimo as well as on triangular business cards, stickers and a large wall decal for the entrance to the space. As they say "better late than never" and the photos are finally up!

PLAY PLAY

2010-04-26T10:46:00.002+01:00

I am proud to announce that I have been excepted into the inkygoodness 4 show entitled "Play" to be held at the East Gallery, London in September. There are a whole host of really great artists involved including the incredible McBess, vector wizard Docvek and doodle master Simon Mills. For a full line-up and more details visit the facebook group on the following link:

http://www.facebook.com/event.php?eid=347723686167

Live canvas painting @ The Dogstar, Brixton

2010-04-26T10:25:00.003+01:00

Myself and Nick Raven were invited down to the Dogstar in Brixton to participate in some live painting for a fundraiser event. The event was entitled Autumn Shift and so we set to work creating an Autumnal themed landscape using only the trusty poscas and some orange paint. It took around three hours and we were both really happy at how it came out. The canvas is to be taken down and sold at auction to the highest bidder.

The Illustrated Gazelle

2010-04-09T12:03:00.002+01:00

The first edition of the Illustrated Gazelle is now being sent out. The newsletter is designed as a simple way to keep past and perspective clients up-to-date with what I'v been up to. Should you want a copy then please get in touch with me at info@bensteers.com. Many thanks...

Bristol Gin

2010-04-02T15:07:00.002+01:00

Initial logo design for a Bristol based Gin company aptly named Bristol Gin. Currently in the early stages of designing the labels for the bottles and this logo will feature on the front of the bottle. The logo is hand drawn using a quill pen and ink, which was good fun to do. More coming soon...

Painting at Start the Bus, Bristol

2010-04-02T13:40:00.004+01:00

This was a piece that I did for the Start the Bus bar in Bristol. Hitting the wall with an assortment of posca pens and nothing else it took me about 3 hours and I'm really happy with how it came out. The hills are alive to the sound of music...