A few years ago I contributed to the internet sensation, the Akira/Simpsons mash up Bartkira project. With the release of The Bartkira Nuclear Edition book, Gallery Nucleus threw an exhibition and book launch. I was invited to take part in the former. 

It begins with thumbnailing my sketchbook. I wanted to tackle some characters I didn't get to play with in the comic pages I drew(well one of them I drew before) and who better than the Espers to play with? Easily the stranger characters from Akira, I was always fascinated with them. 

The next sketch was done on the iPad Pro with the Apple Pencil and Procreate. Theres something about sketching on this device that feels a bit more relaxing, plus I get to work in cafes whilst socialising at the same time. WIN WIN.

Next I printed a low opacity version of the sketch on A3 and inked this by hand. I've been relying too much on digital these days so I wanted more of a personal touch on this piece. 
...Not sure why I blocked out the characters, I guess it was to make it easier to colour them via clipping masks.

First preview. Originally I wanted to go for more washed out colours, giving the impression that Ralphkira was obliterating the world(similar to the final scene in Akira).

I ended with this, more saturated a cartoon like colours(to feel a bit more in line with the simpsons aesthetic. 
mmm...fries. 

Animated gif of the process to enjoy with your faces!

Thanks all! And if you want to buy the one of piece, its still available over at Gallery Nucleus!