Meeting Thomas Blackshear...

Photos courtesy of American Academy of Art.

On Monday, September 8th, 2008, renowned artist and American Academy of Art Alumnus Thomas Blackshear visited the Academy as a guest speaker. Though I had graduated this past May, Rich Kryczka, the Illustration Chair and my Professor and friend, called me to attend. To my surprise, another renowned artist and American Academy of Art Alumnus, my friend Douglas Klauba was there (pictured in third image). Doug was kind enough to introduce me to Thomas Blackshear who honored me by looking at my portfolio. Rich, Douglas, and Thomas are very inspirational artists, check out their work by clicking on their names above.

Gargoyle Mask Production Line...

Today I was at Zagone Studios painting three versions of my latest mask for their 2009 line. I cannot share the new mask until it is officially released by Zagone Studios, but I will release the images as soon as I am able to. Instead, I will share a photo taken today of my Gargoyle Mask from the 2008 line. It is so humbling to see my mask on the production line, . . . I never get tired of seeing it! These masks are waiting to receive the rest of their hair in the back. Look for the Gargoyle Mask this Halloween at your local costume shops! I'm not sure which shops around the country will be selling them, so keep your eyes on the lookout!! Keep posted for the three new 2009 masks!

Exhibition Digital Tour...

Thank you to everyone who attended my first solo art exhibition "Beyond Common Ground: the Art of J. Anthony Kosar." The show was a huge success with a great turnout, and was an amazing learning experience; it was the first time I hung art for a show. A special thank you to my family and Laura Rivas and Debbie Venezia of the Naperville Art League for all their help in making this day happen! To read more about the show, please read the article on the exhibition from The Reporter / Suburban Life newspapers - here

Here are some pictures from the event...

George Burdeaux next to The Fright Catalog which he modeled for.

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For anyone who missed the show,
here is a digital tour around the gallery...

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A total of 47 pieces were on display, consisting of pieces done in gouache, acrylic, oil, charcoal, colored pencil, watercolor pencil, conte crayon, ink, marker, scratch-board, 24 kt gold leaf, and several sculpted masks, prosthetics, props, and a sculpted figure study. The black and white Parthenon drawing (in the above picture) was done in 3rd Grade, the painted Parthenon Ancient Glory was done in 8th Grade. The Byzantine Icons were done from Sophomore to Senior year in high school. Besides these and the Spade and Zombie masks (seen in the first gallery tour picture) that was also done in high school, the rest of the work was completed throughout my four years at the American Academy of Art. To view all of the works displayed in my show and more, please visit my website KOSARTEFFECTS.com

To read more about the show, please read the article on the exhibition from The Reporter / Suburban Life newspapers - here