Halloween From the Archives: Dead End

In the spring of 2015 I created a set of Halloween themed pieces as submissions to a fiction print anthology focusing on Halloween.  The anthology was set for a juvenile reading level.  I toned down my usual gore and darkness and tried to shift my imagery a little towards the lighter side.  You will see as the pieces progress that the darkness began creeping through regardless.  Although my submissions were rejected, I ended up with six lovely pieces that I will be sharing between now and All Hallow's Eve.  I hope you enjoy them.

This one is mostly a mood piece.  However, there is something inherently creepy about a single child standing alone, not seeking out the care of an adult.  The skeleton costume helps with the creepy, of course.

{8x5.33,  created in Adobe Photoshop}

From the Sketchbook Archives: Halloween Poster Pieces

Here are some unused sketches and color elements for a Halloween poster from several years ago.  Much of the imagery here is inspired by early twentieth century Halloween paraphernalia.

Featured Creature HZO: Frankenstein

"There was a loud thump at the window.  I screamed and jumped back.  There was one of them at the window trying to get in.   He was struggling against the glass like a bird.  He was opening and closing his mouth as he pressed against the window.  I could hear the window  making popping and creaking noises as he flailed against it."

Featured Creature HZO: Clown

"I was out back when I got attacked.  I had to finish cleaning before I could leave for the party, but I'd been waiting tables all night and I needed a break.  I stepped outside for a cigarette.

Featured Creature HZO: Bunny

"I was beginning to get worried.  My sister is never late.  When I got to her house, I let myself in and looked around.  No one was home, but her car was outside.

Featured Creature HZO: Witch

"Halloween night, yeah, that was when it all started.  I think I saw my first one over on main and third.  I was waiting at the traffic light when I noticed movement in front of one of the buildings across the street.  Another car passed in the opposing lane and that's when I saw her.

Featured Creature HZO: Dracula

"I heard one of the children gasp.  I looked up from my candy dish and saw a young boy in a Dracula costume at the end of the walkway.  It looked like  he had fallen or something.  His cape was torn and his pants leg was shredded and he seemed to be favoring one foot as he walked.