Illustrations; Left: Paul 'last week' Hammond, Right: Luke 'bling' Neville.

Not ten minutes after having finished my illustration for next weeks issue of The Coast, (that's next week, not this coming week) I sent it off to my close chum, Editor Montreal for review and criticism. Montreal and I have a wonderful, if not competitive relationship, wherein we often run visual concepts by each other as a test-audience. It's been dare I say, mutually beneficial so far, but tonight there was a new development: I was usurped. No, tonight Luke sent back a little more than just advice. He sent competition, fierce and stunning!

I had just divulged that since The Coast pays a minimal $30 per small illustration, (no complaints though. From a free weekly in Nova 'economic purgatory' Scotia, that's just fine.) I try to limit my efforts to between one and two hours, thus making my earnings anywhere from $15 - $30 an hour. That ain't bad.

And how does my dear friend respond? "For thirty dollars, here's what I'd send em." And there followed the most beautiful, carefully rendered illustration I had ever laid eyes on. This would make Nate Williams cry with joy. Thanks a lot Luke. Way to show me the eff up.

I just hope nobody at The Coast reads this site, or they might give you my job.