G.I. Joe: Snake Eyes

He is the resident Ninja of America's daring, highly-trained, special mission force codenamed G.I. Joe. I've never sketched Snake Eyes before, but since getting the invite to G.I. Joe Collectors Platoon Show at the Royal Canadian Legion 101 in Long Branch, ON, I felt compelled to include him in one of four images I prepped for the event as one of the exhibitors. After watching both the cartoons and his portrayal by Ray Park, I wanted to convey the silent warrior in a light that speaks to the essence of the character. As a man who is without speech, his actions tell the tale, so I think splitting a bullet with his katana sends a strong message to the audience. Rendered on hand-trimmed 11 x 17" Canison Mixed Media, I also established the background as a connecting thread shared by the other sketches. For the choice of a fiery explosion I tapped into nostalgia. The decal on those packages containing the latest Joe action figure had that same background. I also enhanced Snake Eyes's Asian influences by throwing in both a Bonsai Silhouette and the Arashikage Ninja Clan standard prominently at the bottom. This piece will go up for sale at midnight on May 1 both individually and as part of a lot. You will find the link on my profile. Yo, Joe!