Ołtsajders

   Yesterday a postman brought an envelope, which I was waiting for for some time now. It came from Radom, Poland. It was sent by a comic book artist and a creative person in general (writing short stories as well) - Paweł 'Gierek' Gierczak (HERE is the link to his art dealer if someone would like to check, or purchase his original artwork).

I was exited to open the envelope, and I was exited for two reasons. First, I will be finally able to read the 4th volume oh his hardcore underground comic book OŁTSAJDERS, and second, my fan art is published inside the book. 

Gierek drawn a picture for me in the book with a positive message - 'don't drink.' :)

   I am already after reading the book, and as always, I am hungry for more. Gierek amazingly represents the life of late communism and early capitalism from the perspective of an ordinary family. Although it is a biographical comic, I can see a lot of myself there. Not that I did what Gierek did, but rather I recognise certain situations, he witnessed himself in totally different region of Poland. He also speaks, especially in the short story at the end of the volume, about emigration movement to the UK and adventures after his return back to Radom. These links make me think that I would like to do something more with Gierek (not just a fan art). Some form of collaboration, if he would like to go ahead of course. This is something that comes from my mind on a page here, no specifics, and no time to do it until I finish writing my thesis, but maybe after? An exhibition? A zine? Who knows ;) 

   Anyway, I am posting few pictures of the book and my fan art as printed in it (they look better in this size than original). I just want to say here, that I am aware, I am not a great artist ;) In fact, I don't think I am an artist at all. But I enjoy doing things, for different purposes, and I really do enjoy seeing the outcome of my fanboy endeavours ;) 

Below I am adding a two WIP pictures of the first drawing I did. 

   Today morning, when I was riding the short story at the end of OŁTSAJDERS, Ewa asked me about the comic I am reading. I showed her my drawings in the book, and the surprise in her eyes was a priceless moment to witness. She saw me drawing that stuff a few months ago, and now she sees a final product. Maybe it is good for her to see stuff like this. Books are not only to read, but also to make, to write, to draw.