I wanted to let everyone know what's going on. I've had several queries for the position of artist over here on MotA and, so far, a few audition pages. I'm waiting for a few more and then I'll make my decision. My hope is to be up and running again before the end of the summer if not sooner.

Thank you for your patience and your belief in Mysteries of the Arcana.

JD (Guest) (2011-07-30)


Silly thought... maybe post up the samples one at a time and have us vote?

Just a thought.

J Gray (2011-07-30)

I had considered that, actually, but thought it unfair. First, art style is only one consideration. I also need to take into account dedication and compatibility. Second, some artists might not be, as they say, ready for prime time and are being brave in putting themselves out there. I don't want to expose them to the crowd, especially after what happened with Jessica.

Also, I'm not sure art should be something that's subjected to a reality-show like environment, even a little.


Eddie (Guest) (2011-07-31)


Well said sir! ^_^ Although it would be interesting to see the audition pages after someone was chosen if the other artists were ok with it Smile

Greg (Guest) (2011-07-31)


James (Guest) (2011-07-31)


I for one would at least like to see who I was up against after you make your decision. It's okay to make bad decision, just as long as you learned from them so if you want to try it again, you'd know how to do it better, without hurting your friends.

J Gray (2011-07-31)

Greg, I don't mean the April Fool's joke but, rather, how much of a thrashing her art got. Yes, artists often need thick skins. However, most of the people auditioning aren't professionals and don't have a lot of experience. I think the "American Idol" process is destructive and would prefer to nurture young talent, not crush it.

James, after I've made my decision I'll ask all the artists involved if I can post their audition pages in the gallery. I do want to share them, just not as part of a 'vote on your favorite' process.


James (Guest) (2011-07-31)


I wasn't thinking of it as a voting thing, just a showcasing of the cannidates regardless of who was picked.

Fairportfan (Guest) (2011-08-03)


While Jessica's art was not what i'd really want to see for mysteries of the Arcana, there's nothing wrong with is as webcomic art per se.

Magic_luver101 (Guest) (2011-08-03)


Why dont you just do the art yourself? 

J Gray (2011-08-04)

You don't want that.

Trust me. You really don't.