Alex Tam # 1
"Pin-Up"
I had known Alex for more than five years, yet like most internet friendships go, we never personally met.
It started when Alex operated a website devoted to the comic book series "Starman". I enjoyed the site and wrote to him about a rumor I overheard about a possible crossover with another comic property called "Madman". Before I knew it, we were e-mailing (and occasionally calling) each other about all sorts of things; regardless that we lived in two separate countries. As it turns out not only was he a big fan of Mystery Science Theater 3000, but a gifted artist as well. So I took a chance and told him about Plight. A few months later I received a batch of drawings from him which also included this pin-up.
Since then I've obtain other artist's interpertations of my characters, but this one will always stand as the first pin-up I was ever given. He spent a lot of time on it and even consulted me during certain stages; making sure it'd be exactly what I wanted. He might as well not even bothered - every draft he showed me literally knocked me on the floor.
While the two of us haven't been touch with each to the point if we ever did reconnect, I fear we'd be complete strangers, Alex was a great friend and someone I came to rely on for honest critism. He didn't hold any punches and I admire that. But it's his skill that still makes me jealous. The things he can do with a pen or a computer go far beyond my capabilities. A terrific artist, a good friend, and a really neat guy. - Jake