TRDL 2011 Series, No. 80 – Ultimate Spider-Man [Miles Morales] This was done for the TRDL R3 Jam, the subject being the new Ultimate Spider-Man, Miles Morales. Obviously this character has garnered both press and controversy, not just for involving the death of Peter Parker as its impetus (albeit the Ultimate Universe version) but also for the choice to make him half black and half latino. For my money, I like that they took the opportunity to really reinvent the character, and find new, more relavent ways to explore some of the central themes of the civilian identity and its relationship with the costumed one: isolation, differentness, and forging a path for one’s self, regardless of the approval of others. I also enjoy stories about inexperienced heroes. I tried to capture some of that slightly awkward but exuberant agility in this pic. One of the most graceful things you see Spidey do is loose one web and launch another in a consistent swing. I wanted to show this motion when it is less refined. I also played up the black in the new costume, because I always loved the pre-Venom black costume for Parker after Secret Wars, with little detail. You can read more about the process on this pic here: [link]
Artists, come join us on R3 and submit to the jams! The R3 Illustration Jam offers new characters weekly, but all jams remain open so you can contribute to any that you like, here: [link]