To be truthful, I have been back for a while. Behind the scenes, I returned to AG to find a WordPress update, some plug-in updates, and most importantly a ComicPress update. Starting from the “core” up, I updated WP and the auxiliary plug-ins, and then discovered that I needed to debug and clear off some old attachments that were no longer needed. With WP functioning, I jumped into ComicPress. ComicPress was a major update, and when I looked through the CSS code I could see some issues that needed to be addressed. So, I took some time to update the look and feel of the site from the ground up so that everything is working in concert with each other.
One of the most notable changes is the inclusion of the “Buy this print.” option. I’ve always wanted to do this; I even set up a CafePress page with this intent, but it was just to many hoops to jump through, and not enough time to manage all the separate operations. Comic press has solved this by coding a simple widget that allows you to purchase a print through PayPal using a credit card. Since I have in-home access to a very expensive photo-printer that produces beautiful full-color prints, I thought this would be the perfect no-brainer solution. If you like a particular panel in AG. Click on the button, and I send you a hand signed, 8.5 x 11 print. Pretty easy.
Oh … wait … not all my art is at print resolution! Yes, argh! So I have been going back through my art and creating 300 ppi full rez versions. In this process, I have deleted the charred borders of the pictures, which allows for slightly larger images. I have also created a template in InDesign which will allow me greater typographic control over the stories, and ease the repetitive workflow. This gives me document that is universal, CMYK friendly, and commercial print ready, from which I can also create web-images for my postings.
I know … this sounds like the rantings of an OCD control-freak artist. Trust me. it makes it all better for you, the reader, in the end.
The best news is that all of this allows me to draw again. I have the time. The site is fixed. I have pages of ideas. I am excited! AG will be be up and running withing the week with a new installment.
