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Miniatures Adventure => Pulp => Topic started by: Alxbates on March 09, 2014, 10:32:32 PM

Title: Denizens of Azor: Man-Apes and more Man-Apes!
Post by: Alxbates on March 09, 2014, 10:32:32 PM
Hi folks -

Some of you may know that I've been working on my own project for the last few years.  It's taken awhile to really get rolling, but the main impetus of Forge of Ice is a lost valley named Azor - a valley full of strange creatures, prehistoric beasts, and the degenerate descendants of a once-great ancient civilization split in an ancient and unending civil war.

I'm traveling to the Emerald City Comicon in Seattle at the end of the month, where I'll be one of only a dozen or so game vendors in attendance.  There will be a bunch of new models for sale at the con, stuff that hasn't been available before (most of the greens are still sitting on my bookcase, headed to the caster on Monday!). 

I thought I'd share pics of the greens here, too, and I'll keep this thread updated as I detail creatures, play games, build terrain and stuff.  And so on.  :)

First up:

(http://i16.photobucket.com/albums/b31/Alxbates/SnakePriestessCENSORED_zps5d42bf24.jpg) (http://s16.photobucket.com/user/Alxbates/media/SnakePriestessCENSORED_zps5d42bf24.jpg.html)

A priestess of the Snake Cult in the city of Azor (both the city and the valley are named Azor), sculpted by Patrick Keith.
Title: Re: Denizens of Azor preview thread - Snake Priestess, Entelodon, Jungle Lord
Post by: wolfen on March 09, 2014, 10:38:25 PM
Love it. Looking forward to that release.
Title: Re: Denizens of Azor preview thread - Snake Priestess, Entelodon, Jungle Lord
Post by: Alxbates on March 09, 2014, 10:39:50 PM
Next up, a Jungle Lord, sculpted by James Van Schaik:

(http://i16.photobucket.com/albums/b31/Alxbates/Tarzan1_zps3aa250b5.jpg) (http://s16.photobucket.com/user/Alxbates/media/Tarzan1_zps3aa250b5.jpg.html)

(http://i16.photobucket.com/albums/b31/Alxbates/Tarzan2_zps6c632444.jpg) (http://s16.photobucket.com/user/Alxbates/media/Tarzan2_zps6c632444.jpg.html)

(http://i16.photobucket.com/albums/b31/Alxbates/Tarzan3_zps5ceed05d.jpg) (http://s16.photobucket.com/user/Alxbates/media/Tarzan3_zps5ceed05d.jpg.html)

It's sadly too often an occurrence that a human child goes missing from the city or one of the outlying villages.  Mostly, those children are never seen again, victims of the dangers of the jungle - but from time to time, a child is adopted by ape-men of the forest.  Those that survive to adulthood often emerge as formidable individuals, with skills and attitudes far different from those of the city dwelling men.
Title: Re: Denizens of Azor preview thread - Snake Priestess, Entelodon, Jungle Lord
Post by: Alxbates on March 09, 2014, 10:47:31 PM
And now we've got the Entelodon(t), the giant predatory warthog, sculpted by Matt Gubser:

(http://i16.photobucket.com/albums/b31/Alxbates/Entelodonpose2_zps31aa35fd.jpg) (http://s16.photobucket.com/user/Alxbates/media/Entelodonpose2_zps31aa35fd.jpg.html)

(http://i16.photobucket.com/albums/b31/Alxbates/Entpose1withextras_zps073420b9.jpg) (http://s16.photobucket.com/user/Alxbates/media/Entpose1withextras_zps073420b9.jpg.html)

I don't have a cool "Lost World-y" name for them yet, but warthogs the size of a rhinoceros with the attitude of a hungry bear are just too cool an animal for me to pass up adding to the setting.  One of the largest and most dangerous predators of the land, they are luckily rather uncommon.  

There are two poses of this figure - two bodies and two heads, interchangeable.  One of the heads has a separate jaw that can be attached open or closed, giving a fair variety of options.

Now that I look at the second picture, I think maybe I should mention that's not a weird crest on his face, that's the tail of a peacock that happens to be sitting right behind him.  That's a 50mm round base he's mounted on.

And never mind those bug-eyed lizardmen to the left, they're a separate project...
Title: Re: Denizens of Azor preview thread - Snake Priestess, Entelodon, Jungle Lord
Post by: Alfrik on March 09, 2014, 10:53:17 PM
Nice stuff there :)
Title: Re: Denizens of Azor preview thread - Snake Priestess, Entelodon, Jungle Lord
Post by: Leapsnbounds on March 09, 2014, 11:29:53 PM
I'd like to get my hands on the priestess
Title: Re: Denizens of Azor preview thread - Snake Priestess, Entelodon, Jungle Lord
Post by: Marine0846 on March 10, 2014, 12:34:21 AM
Love your figures.
Will you be selling them after you come back from Seattle?
Title: Re: Denizens of Azor preview thread - Snake Priestess, Entelodon, Jungle Lord
Post by: Mad Lord Snapcase on March 10, 2014, 08:20:12 AM
I'd like to get my hands on the priestess

I concur!  ;)

Will these be available to buy on-line?
Title: Re: Denizens of Azor preview thread - Snake Priestess, Entelodon, Jungle Lord
Post by: Duke Donald on March 10, 2014, 12:46:48 PM
The priestess is really sweet.
Title: Re: Denizens of Azor preview thread - Snake Priestess, Entelodon, Jungle Lord
Post by: Mason on March 10, 2014, 01:58:31 PM
Ooooh!

Very nice sculpts, Alex.
 :-*


I can see these becoming very popular.
 8) 8) 8)

Title: Re: Denizens of Azor preview thread - Snake Priestess, Entelodon, Jungle Lord
Post by: Amalric on March 10, 2014, 05:51:04 PM
Will these be available to buy on-line?

Please.
Title: Re: Denizens of Azor preview thread - Snake Priestess, Entelodon, Jungle Lord
Post by: Alfrik on March 10, 2014, 10:49:19 PM
Is there a current link you could provide to any existing on line purchase site you may have?
Title: Re: Denizens of Azor preview thread - Snake Priestess, Entelodon, Jungle Lord
Post by: The Hooded Claw on March 11, 2014, 02:45:56 AM
Excellent stuff Alex!

I will be needing all of those thank you very much :)

That jungle lord is superb and will fit perfectly into my lost world.

-Eli
Title: Re: Denizens of Azor preview thread - Snake Priestess, Entelodon, Jungle Lord
Post by: Alxbates on March 11, 2014, 03:59:54 AM
Is there a current link you could provide to any existing on line purchase site you may have?

I am sorry to say that there is currently no easy way to purchase my stuff online.

I keep my Facebook page updated fairly regularly: www.facebook.com/ForgeOfIce

I can take orders via email, PM's here or messages on Facebook.  Tell me what you'd like and I'll send you an invoice via Paypal.

Thanks for all the positive feedback, folks!  I'll be sure to post something once these new figures are cast and available for purchase.

-Alex
Title: Re: Denizens of Azor preview thread - Snake Priestess, Entelodon, Jungle Lord
Post by: Amalric on March 11, 2014, 04:34:03 AM
....I can take orders via email, PM's here or messages on Facebook.  ....

PM sent.
 ;)

Thanks
Title: Re: Denizens of Azor preview thread - Snake Priestess, Entelodon, Jungle Lord
Post by: Doomsdave on March 19, 2014, 09:28:16 AM
I will place an order when the new lizardmen poses and snake priestess are available.  Wheeee.
Title: Re: Denizens of Azor preview thread - Pterro-Man, Dino Eggs and tiny cycads
Post by: Alxbates on March 19, 2014, 01:24:58 PM
I'll also have the Pterro-Man figure back in stock in Mid-April, along with the new stuff:

(http://i16.photobucket.com/albums/b31/Alxbates/PterroManforLAF_zpsbe251b17.jpg) (http://s16.photobucket.com/user/Alxbates/media/PterroManforLAF_zpsbe251b17.jpg.html)
Title: Re: Denizens of Azor preview thread - Snake Priestess, Entelodon, Jungle Lord
Post by: Alxbates on March 19, 2014, 01:31:14 PM
I sculpted some accessories, too, a nest of dinosaur eggs and a couple of little cycad ferns that are small enough to use to decorate figure bases.

(http://i16.photobucket.com/albums/b31/Alxbates/LAFeggsandplants_zps85296a95.jpg) (http://s16.photobucket.com/user/Alxbates/media/LAFeggsandplants_zps85296a95.jpg.html)

These will also be for sale at the Emerald City Comicon, and available online in mid-April.

-Alex
Title: Re: Denizens of Azor preview thread - Pterro-Man, dinosaur eggs & little cycad ferns
Post by: Alxbates on March 23, 2014, 11:41:50 AM
This here is just an early in-progress picture, but I'm super stoked about it, so I'm going to show it off!

A serpent man sculpted by Mr. John Dennett!  Some of you may remember his work from Grenadier in the 1980's - his Monster Manuscript figures are still some of my all time favorites.

The Histath are a race of mostly plains-dwelling dinosaur tamers and riders.  Nomadic and predatory, they live in small family groups or tribes, occasionally uniting to raid (or trade with!) the human and subhuman inhabitants of Azor.

(http://i16.photobucket.com/albums/b31/Alxbates/Histathbasicformsblockedout_zps38a0b395.jpg) (http://s16.photobucket.com/user/Alxbates/media/Histathbasicformsblockedout_zps38a0b395.jpg.html)

(http://i16.photobucket.com/albums/b31/Alxbates/Histathbasicformsblockedout2_zps980d0cbf.jpg) (http://s16.photobucket.com/user/Alxbates/media/Histathbasicformsblockedout2_zps980d0cbf.jpg.html)

(http://i16.photobucket.com/albums/b31/Alxbates/Histathbasicformsblockedout3_zps072c82b6.jpg) (http://s16.photobucket.com/user/Alxbates/media/Histathbasicformsblockedout3_zps072c82b6.jpg.html)
Title: Re: Denizens of Azor preview thread - Histath, serpent man in progress
Post by: Alxbates on March 23, 2014, 11:55:57 AM
It took me FOREVER to settle on a design for the snake men that I was happy with.

I've liked the idea of serpent men ever since I read about them in the Kull and Conan stories, although I'm sure that Kobra Khan from He-Man, Tarzan's Horibs, the Yuan-ti from D&D and Raymond Feist's Pantathhians all figure in there somewhere... snake men aren't exactly rare in fantasy fiction or in tabletop gaming, but I've never been totally happy with how any of them look.  Not to say that there aren't some great figures out there - I LOVE Games Workshop's old Chaos Serpentmen, and the Grenadier Snake priests from their old Cthulhu line are also favorites, but they just don't quite match up with the image I had in my head of what they were "supposed" to look like.

It wasn't until I started working with an artist that I realized that even *I* didn't have a perfectly clear idea of what that look was!

I also kept running into the problem that once you add arms and legs to a snake, it necessarily starts to look rather lizard-y...

So, we've kept the neck elongated & the head 100% snake-like.  The arms and shoulders are slender and almost feminine - too much bulk and they start to look lizard or dinosaur-like.  They're also enlongated a bit like a human with Marfan Syndrome.  The tail is extra long and tube-like, rather than vertically flat like a lizard's, and the legs... well, they look the way I want them to look!  :)

(http://i16.photobucket.com/albums/b31/Alxbates/Forge%20of%20Ice%20art/Histath1_zpsa20d6e4c.jpg) (http://s16.photobucket.com/user/Alxbates/media/Forge%20of%20Ice%20art/Histath1_zpsa20d6e4c.jpg.html)

(http://i16.photobucket.com/albums/b31/Alxbates/Forge%20of%20Ice%20art/HistathheaddetailbyKate_zpsbc00a9cf.jpg) (http://s16.photobucket.com/user/Alxbates/media/Forge%20of%20Ice%20art/HistathheaddetailbyKate_zpsbc00a9cf.jpg.html)

And there you go, a little insight into my process.

-Alex
Title: Re: Denizens of Azor preview thread - Histath, serpent man in progress
Post by: FramFramson on March 23, 2014, 01:38:01 PM
Wow, that looks GREAT!
Title: Re: Denizens of Azor preview thread - Histath, serpent man in progress
Post by: The Hooded Claw on March 23, 2014, 03:47:19 PM
I really like the final design you have come up with on the snake men. They still look like snakes to me, even with the arms and legs.

Well done.

-Eli
Title: Re: Denizens of Azor preview thread - Histath, serpent man in progress
Post by: Amalric on March 23, 2014, 08:37:25 PM
I really like the final design you have come up with on the snake men. They still look like snakes to me, even with the arms and legs.

Well done.

-Eli

What he said.
Those are the first snake men I've seen that make sense as actual critters.
They look to be useful in so many ways and should paint up nicely.
I look forward to their being released, along with the priestess.
What will these go for when finally for sale?
Title: Re: Denizens of Azor preview thread - Histath, serpent man in progress
Post by: pacarat on March 23, 2014, 10:23:18 PM
I like this fig very much...

Will be watching for more...variants in the plan?
Title: Re: Denizens of Azor preview thread - Histath, serpent man in progress
Post by: Wolf Girl on March 23, 2014, 10:55:21 PM
Very nice! I could definitely use a dozen of those.  :-* :-* :-*
Title: Re: Denizens of Azor preview thread - Histath, serpent man in progress
Post by: Alxbates on March 23, 2014, 11:04:35 PM
What he said.
Those are the first snake men I've seen that make sense as actual critters.
They look to be useful in so many ways and should paint up nicely.
I look forward to their being released, along with the priestess.
What will these go for when finally for sale?

Thanks!  I think that they'll be versatile figures, useful for many settings.

I'm not settled on price yet - it looks like this will have to be a 2 or possibly 3 part figure (the arm and weapon will have to be separate, and the tail *might* need to be separate).  That will affect the amount of time the sculptor will put into it & also the number of figures I can get per mold.

I expect he'll be under $10.
Title: Re: Denizens of Azor preview thread - Histath, serpent man in progress
Post by: Alxbates on March 23, 2014, 11:06:25 PM
Will be watching for more...variants in the plan?

That's also the plan!

This guy is something of a 'proof of concept' figure, to get the look finalized and settled.  I expect to have an entire tribe of these guys done, including (hopefully!) some mounted figures.

-Alex
Title: Re: Denizens of Azor preview thread - Histath, serpent man in progress
Post by: Jodee Benavides on March 24, 2014, 01:26:02 AM
Very cool figure!
Title: Re: Denizens of Azor preview thread - Histath, serpent man in progress
Post by: Jodee Benavides on March 24, 2014, 01:40:42 AM
That Teronus dragon is one of my all-time favorites. I may have to get in touch with Mr. Dennett for some dino-work.
Title: Re: Denizens of Azor preview thread - Histath, serpent man in progress
Post by: Doomsdave on March 24, 2014, 02:25:04 AM
Nice.  Very exciting stuff in your future!
Title: Re: Denizens of Azor preview thread - Histath, serpent man in progress
Post by: Alxbates on September 24, 2014, 01:16:51 PM
It's been awhile since I've posted anything - I don't like to show in-progress photos of sculpts because so often it seems that delays and life and stuff get in the way.

... actually, I really really do like to show them off, I get super excited about it, but I've found that it's often imprudent because of delays and life and stuff getting in the way!

  ;)

However, I do have some more sculpts coming - and here's a preview for one of them.

The Okros (singular - plural is "Okroi") are a number of different species of warm-blooded reptiles that inhabit the niches that are, in the outside world, normally taken by hoofed mammals. The most common forms are anatomically very similar to antelope and deer, but there are larger and more robust species that are similar to horses and elk/moose, as well as stocky belligerent types that are similar to the Cape Buffalo of Africa.

The most common species, the Blue Okros, is about the size of a large deer, able to look a man in the eye, with the tip of the crest horn occasionally reaching as high as six feet on large females. They travel in small family herds and are the main prey animal of several of the large predators of Azor. Their high birth rate, quick growth, and keen senses serve them well in surviving the various dangers of the Lost World.

They have proven to be too skittish to be truly domesticated, but they are sometimes tamed and used as beasts of burden, and some of the Telestai and Kasireu (landowners with walled estated) are known to keep semi-domesticated herds for food and hunting.

I've got two sculpts coming in the pipeline, along with packs that can be put on their backs or not as you like.  One pack is generic rammage, the other is a couple of pithos pots for carrying wine or grain or what have you.

(http://i16.photobucket.com/albums/b31/Alxbates/Okroswithsentrysizecomparison_zps346c6817.png) (http://s16.photobucket.com/user/Alxbates/media/Okroswithsentrysizecomparison_zps346c6817.png.html)

(http://i16.photobucket.com/albums/b31/Alxbates/OkroscolorfullbyKate_zps2af49d0b.jpg) (http://s16.photobucket.com/user/Alxbates/media/OkroscolorfullbyKate_zps2af49d0b.jpg.html)

Original & color art by Kate Turner, b&w art by Brianna Reagan (the human guard is by Lucas Elliot).

I'll be posting pics of the greens soon, probably on the FB page first.

www.Facebook.com/ForgeofIce

-Alex
Title: Re: Denizens of Azor preview thread - Okroi, deer-like dinosaurs
Post by: Alxbates on October 15, 2014, 05:33:15 AM
I was very excited to receive this package in the mail today:

(http://i16.photobucket.com/albums/b31/Alxbates/SnakePriestess2sculptbyPatrickKeith95percentdone_zpscbfe0aa5.jpg) (http://s16.photobucket.com/user/Alxbates/media/SnakePriestess2sculptbyPatrickKeith95percentdone_zpscbfe0aa5.jpg.html)

The second snake priestess, also sculpted by Patrick Keith.

I should have her cast and available before Christmastime.

-Alex
Title: Re: Denizens of Azor preview thread - Second Snake Priestess
Post by: d phipps on October 15, 2014, 05:57:24 AM
She looks great.  :-*
Title: Re: Denizens of Azor preview thread - Second Snake Priestess
Post by: Malebolgia on October 15, 2014, 07:16:35 AM
Ooooooooooooooooooooooooooh, lovely!
Title: Re: Denizens of Azor preview thread - Second Snake Priestess
Post by: The Hooded Claw on October 15, 2014, 02:53:23 PM
Nice to see things developing. A lovely miniatures indeed.

-Eli
Title: Re: Denizens of Azor preview thread - Second Snake Priestess
Post by: Wirelizard on October 16, 2014, 07:17:53 AM
Apparently I need to start a snake cult. I was not aware of this until now.  ;)

Any plans to do a couple bases of single or groups of snakes to go along with the critters wrapped around the priestesses?
Title: Re: Denizens of Azor preview thread - Second Snake Priestess
Post by: Alxbates on October 17, 2014, 12:18:49 PM
Apparently I need to start a snake cult. I was not aware of this until now.  ;)

Any plans to do a couple bases of single or groups of snakes to go along with the critters wrapped around the priestesses?

I plan to do a boxed set called "Just Another Snake Cult..."

There will be Guardian Snakes in the set, as well as a giant snake statue. 

Well, maybe not "Giant", but, big enough to sit on a 40mm round base.  Maybe a throne. 

And some warrior women, too.  The warrior women are coming next!  Not anytime soon - my releases are generally funded by the previous one - but I have a Kickstarter in the works, and I hope to ramp up my output significantly after Christmas.

Of course, I've said that sort of thing before... something always seems to get in the way ($1000+ to fix the car, leaky sink ruining the walls in the downstairs bathroom, the price of heating fuel skyrocketing, etc etc etc...).

Things tend to progress at their own pace. 

Even operating at such a small scale as I operate at, I've realized why miniatures companies are so reluctant to commit to release dates! 
Title: Re: Denizens of Azor preview thread - Second Snake Priestess
Post by: Mad Lord Snapcase on October 18, 2014, 01:50:58 PM
I need Snake Priestesses and Warrior Women! Let us know when the kick-starter is up and running?
Title: Re: Denizens of Azor preview thread - Second Snake Priestess
Post by: Alxbates on October 30, 2014, 05:10:29 PM
This brings me close to the end of my current batch of greens - only a couple left!

When I first ran across pictures of the Armadillosuchus Arrudai, I knew it would be a perfect addition to Azor.  Jason Wiebe sculpted this one, and he'll be converting a couple of variant poses after I have this batch mastered.

These terrestrial (perhaps even burrowing!) armored crocs are raised from the egg to be temple guards in the city Zor-Al, and unless you have been anointed with the properly scented oils they will attack viciously, as they are kept hungry!

(http://i16.photobucket.com/albums/b31/Alxbates/NewForgeofIcepics130_zps0c673637.jpg) (http://s16.photobucket.com/user/Alxbates/media/NewForgeofIcepics130_zps0c673637.jpg.html)

(http://i16.photobucket.com/albums/b31/Alxbates/NewForgeofIcepics129_zps1fb59566.jpg) (http://s16.photobucket.com/user/Alxbates/media/NewForgeofIcepics129_zps1fb59566.jpg.html)

(http://i16.photobucket.com/albums/b31/Alxbates/ArmoredCroc2byJasonWiebe_zps1bf3d258.jpg) (http://s16.photobucket.com/user/Alxbates/media/ArmoredCroc2byJasonWiebe_zps1bf3d258.jpg.html)

Here's a picture next to some other figures for scale reference - from left to right, a Forge of Ice sentry, a Games Workshop Lord of the Rings elf, a Crocodile Games Satyr, and another Forge of Ice figure, a Saleesa bug-eyed lizardman leader.

(http://i16.photobucket.com/albums/b31/Alxbates/ArmoredCroc3withbackgroundfigsbyJasonWiebe_zps2e911836.jpg) (http://s16.photobucket.com/user/Alxbates/media/ArmoredCroc3withbackgroundfigsbyJasonWiebe_zps2e911836.jpg.html)
Title: Re: Denizens of Azor preview thread - armored crocodiles of Zor-Al
Post by: d phipps on October 30, 2014, 05:20:13 PM
Very nice! Another cool looking miniature.
Title: Re: Denizens of Azor preview thread - armored crocodiles of Zor-Al
Post by: Alxbates on November 06, 2014, 01:10:05 AM
They were such weird animals:

(http://i071.radikal.ru/0907/4c/460b1d429b39.jpg)
Title: Re: Denizens of Azor preview thread - armored crocodiles of Zor-Al
Post by: d phipps on November 06, 2014, 01:57:00 AM
That creatures would be perfect for our Pulp Alley - Perilous Island campaign.  ;)
Title: Re: Denizens of Azor preview thread - armored crocodiles of Zor-Al
Post by: Valerik on November 06, 2014, 05:32:26 AM
They were such weird animals:

Armadile?

Crocadillo?

Armagator?

Allidillo?

Does seem to be some unholy inter-special miscegenation at work with this beast...

Valerik

not much a fan of lizards whatever their size or ilk
Title: Re: Denizens of Azor preview thread - armored crocodiles of Zor-Al
Post by: Alxbates on November 07, 2014, 03:39:05 AM
Armadile?

Crocadillo?

Armagator?

Allidillo?

Does seem to be some unholy inter-special miscegenation at work with this beast...

Valerik

not much a fan of lizards whatever their size or ilk

I usually see them called "Crocodillo", and the scientific name is "Armadillosuchus Arrudai".

I'm just calling them armored crocodiles in Azor, but I think they'll most commonly be referred to as "OH DEAR GOD WHAT IS THAT AAAAAAAAAAAAARH!!!--"
Title: Re: Denizens of Azor preview thread - armored crocodiles of Zor-Al
Post by: Mad Lord Snapcase on November 07, 2014, 07:43:31 AM
Quote
"OH DEAR GOD WHAT IS THAT AAAAAAAAAAAAARH!!!--"

 lol  lol  lol  lol  lol
Title: Re: Denizens of Azor preview thread - Second Snake Priestess
Post by: pocoloco on November 07, 2014, 07:49:33 AM
Apparently I need to start a snake cult. I was not aware of this until now.  ;)

Yes, what a strange occurance indeed as I have the same inclination now  :D
Title: Re: Denizens of Azor preview thread - armored crocodiles of Zor-Al
Post by: joroas on November 07, 2014, 08:00:40 AM
Would that be be called: Snakes on the Plains?
Title: Re: Denizens of Azor preview thread - armored crocodiles of Zor-Al
Post by: Alxbates on November 09, 2014, 05:21:29 AM
Martin Jones - Reaper's own Doctor Strangebrush - has painted some figures for me.  These are the Entelodonts, sculpted by Matt Gubser.  There are two bodies and two heads, the heads are interchangeable so you can make up to four variants.

(http://i16.photobucket.com/albums/b31/Alxbates/10756700_970026689679489_1741146396_o_zpsa668f29d.jpg) (http://s16.photobucket.com/user/Alxbates/media/10756700_970026689679489_1741146396_o_zpsa668f29d.jpg.html)

Many more pictures on the Forge of ice Facebook page.

www.Facebook.com/ForgeofIce
Title: Re: Denizens of Azor preview thread - armored crocodiles of Zor-Al
Post by: d phipps on November 09, 2014, 01:51:21 PM
Looking good!
Title: Re: Denizens of Azor preview thread - Okroi deer-like dinosaurs
Post by: Alxbates on November 28, 2014, 04:11:35 PM
Drew Williams has finished the Okroi sculpts!

(http://i16.photobucket.com/albums/b31/Alxbates/10427366_1013755458650409_5438327178473991865_n_zps9748418e.jpg) (http://s16.photobucket.com/user/Alxbates/media/10427366_1013755458650409_5438327178473991865_n_zps9748418e.jpg.html)

(http://i16.photobucket.com/albums/b31/Alxbates/10429290_1013755381983750_1508013004426020538_n_zps6d1a79fd.jpg) (http://s16.photobucket.com/user/Alxbates/media/10429290_1013755381983750_1508013004426020538_n_zps6d1a79fd.jpg.html)

Here they are on 40mm round bases, next to a sentry.

(http://i16.photobucket.com/albums/b31/Alxbates/9764_1013755578650397_7890762155838647164_n_zps3e86b61d.jpg) (http://s16.photobucket.com/user/Alxbates/media/9764_1013755578650397_7890762155838647164_n_zps3e86b61d.jpg.html)

They also come with baggage packs, so they can be used as domesticated pack animals.

(http://i16.photobucket.com/albums/b31/Alxbates/10425401_1013755741983714_8258953800799054937_n_zps9db48472.jpg) (http://s16.photobucket.com/user/Alxbates/media/10425401_1013755741983714_8258953800799054937_n_zps9db48472.jpg.html)

I have many more pictures up over on the Forge of Ice Facebook page:

https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.671453269619160.1073741839.187755624655596
Title: Re: Denizens of Azor preview thread - Okros, deer-like dinosaurs.
Post by: d phipps on November 28, 2014, 07:39:57 PM
Nice work! I like the baggage packs. That's a cool idea.

I could see us using these in our Pulp Alley games.
Title: Re: Denizens of Azor preview thread - Okros, deer-like dinosaurs.
Post by: HerbyF on November 29, 2014, 11:55:10 PM
They would also make a great chariot team.
Title: Re: Denizens of Azor preview thread - Okros, deer-like dinosaurs.
Post by: beefcake on November 30, 2014, 06:37:42 AM
Loving this stuff. Very nice. I can see the last ones being used (in fantasy for me) as some sort of foreign merchant of exotic wares.
Title: Re: Denizens of Azor preview thread - Okros, deer-like dinosaurs.
Post by: Furt on November 30, 2014, 08:09:18 AM
I like all this stuff a lot - very exotic!  :)

Excuse my ignorance, but is Azor all your own creation?

That sentry is he one of yours?

And also I don't Facebook, so wouldn't mind seeing everything you have shown in this post.  :)
Title: Re: Denizens of Azor preview thread - Okros, deer-like dinosaurs.
Post by: Mason on November 30, 2014, 11:03:07 AM
The Okroi and the baggage are brilliant.
I can certainly see a use for them as I intend to get around to doing a 'Lost World' setting at some point.
 :-* :-*

When do they go into production?
 :D

Title: Re: Denizens of Azor preview thread - Okros, deer-like dinosaurs.
Post by: Belgian on November 30, 2014, 03:23:10 PM
They look interesting do you have already set up an online shop?
Title: Re: Denizens of Azor preview thread - Okros, deer-like dinosaurs.
Post by: Alxbates on December 01, 2014, 11:49:42 PM
I like all this stuff a lot - very exotic!  :)

Excuse my ignorance, but is Azor all your own creation?

That sentry is he one of yours?

And also I don't Facebook, so wouldn't mind seeing everything you have shown in this post.  :)

Hello Furt!

Azor is the setting I'm slowly working on - it's a Lost World, designed to be something that can be plugged into any campaign.  It seems like, in fiction, whenever the protagonists discover an uncharted island or an underground cavern or a hidden valley, it's full of prehistoric creatures, ancient ruins, and subhumans of some kind (usually, but not always, ape-men or Neanderthals).  I'm leaving the location of Azor purposefully non-specific, so it can be used anywhere.  Whether we're talking pulp (King Kong's Skull Island or Burroughs' Opar or Pal-Ul-Don or Pellucidar), Super Heroes (DC's Dinosaur Island or Marvel's Savage Land), fantasy (it seems like every damn valley or island that Conan wanders into is a Lost World), or even sci-fi (Carson's Venus!), the Azor setting should be useful.

The sentry is one of mine that will be released via Kickstarter in February - I'll post previews as it gets closer.

I've heard a couple of people mention that they don't use Facebook, so I'll try to get some pictures of my non-brand-new stuff up here. 

My priority at the moment is getting my website and online store working again, as I am very much aware of the limits of Facebook for promotion and particularly sales :)

For now, I've had to limit orders to emails and PM's - clunky and far less than ideal, but better than nothing.

-Alex
Title: Re: Denizens of Azor preview thread - Okros, deer-like dinosaurs.
Post by: Alxbates on December 02, 2014, 12:41:06 AM
The Okroi and the baggage are brilliant.
I can certainly see a use for them as I intend to get around to doing a 'Lost World' setting at some point.
 :-* :-*

When do they go into production?
 :D


Glad you like them!  I was a little afraid that they were too... weird to have a broad appeal. 

I got an email from the caster this morning - he'll be molding them within the next couple of days!

Belgian - I do not currently have a working online shop.  For the moment, I'm just taking orders via email or PM.

-Alex
Title: Re: Denizens of Azor preview thread - Okros, deer-like dinosaurs.
Post by: Alxbates on February 08, 2015, 06:44:51 AM
The second snake priestess and the Okroi are now cast and available!

FOI 106 - Two Okroi and Baggage - $14
FOI 602 - Snake Priestess #2 - $6
FOI 205 - Small nest with eggs - $2

(http://i16.photobucket.com/albums/b31/Alxbates/Jan%2031%20new%20releases%20photo_zpsngmoc4xm.jpg) (http://s16.photobucket.com/user/Alxbates/media/Jan%2031%20new%20releases%20photo_zpsngmoc4xm.jpg.html)

(http://i16.photobucket.com/albums/b31/Alxbates/Jan%2031%20new%20releases%20photo%202_zpssihpcwsa.jpg) (http://s16.photobucket.com/user/Alxbates/media/Jan%2031%20new%20releases%20photo%202_zpssihpcwsa.jpg.html)

Still no website, so, if you want something send me an email, PM, or message on the Forge of Ice FB page.

-Alex
Title: Re: Denizens of Azor preview thread - Okros, deer-like dinosaurs.
Post by: Gun bunny on February 08, 2015, 07:00:49 AM
very nice work.
Title: Re: Denizens of Azor preview thread - Okros, deer-like dinosaurs.
Post by: Wolf Girl on February 08, 2015, 04:22:45 PM
Excellent looking figures!  :-*  I could definitely use some of these in our Pulp Alley games.
Title: Re: Denizens of Azor preview thread - Okros, deer-like dinosaurs.
Post by: MalcyBogaten on February 08, 2015, 06:06:22 PM
These look brilliant! :-*

Loving the work.
Title: Re: Denizens of Azor preview thread - Okros, deer-like dinosaurs.
Post by: Mason on February 08, 2015, 06:15:12 PM
Shiny!
 :-*

PM sent.
 :D

Title: Re: Denizens of Azor preview thread - Okros, deer-like dinosaurs.
Post by: Sinewgrab on February 08, 2015, 08:19:03 PM
I think I have joined the cult of those who suddenly need to start a Snake Cult...
Title: Re: Denizens of Azor preview thread - Okros, deer-like dinosaurs.
Post by: Alxbates on February 08, 2015, 10:04:45 PM
Thanks everybody - glad you like the figures.

I have a few more things coming very soon, including a Kickstarter to have a small set of figures released.

And, of course, the ongoing Sisyphean efforts to get a working website...

;)

-Alex
Title: Re: Denizens of Azor preview thread - Okros, deer-like dinosaurs.
Post by: Hobby Services on February 09, 2015, 12:04:47 AM
Lovely sculpts in this range.  Is the first snake priestess still available, or has #2 effectively replaced he?
Title: Re: Denizens of Azor preview thread - Okros, deer-like dinosaurs.
Post by: wulfgar22 on February 09, 2015, 07:44:37 AM
I think I have joined the cult of those who suddenly need to start a Snake Cult...

I'm another who has succumbed to the mysteries of the Snake Cult!
Title: Re: Denizens of Azor preview thread - Okros, deer-like dinosaurs.
Post by: Alxbates on February 09, 2015, 11:57:49 AM
Lovely sculpts in this range.  Is the first snake priestess still available, or has #2 effectively replaced he?

They are both available!

The first one funded the second - if this new one sells well I'm going to have a set of three lesser priestesses made - wielding swords & wearing slightly more battle-practical outfits.
Title: Re: Denizens of Azor preview thread - Okros, deer-like dinosaurs.
Post by: YPU on February 09, 2015, 12:31:23 PM
Why have I not seen this topic before!
Title: Re: Denizens of Azor preview thread - Okros, deer-like dinosaurs.
Post by: Amalric on February 11, 2015, 05:09:47 AM
They are both available!

The first one funded the second - if this new one sells well I'm going to have a set of three lesser priestesses made - wielding swords & wearing slightly more battle-practical outfits.

Everyone order some!
I just ordered priestess #2 and the Snake Priestesses will need their sword swinging sisters soon.  ;)

And did I mention they paint up so nicely.
(http://imageshack.com/a/img849/3193/qxqn.jpg)
Title: Re: Denizens of Azor preview thread - Okros, deer-like dinosaurs.
Post by: wulfgar22 on February 11, 2015, 07:37:50 AM
 :o Very nice!
Title: Re: Denizens of Azor preview thread - Okros, deer-like dinosaurs.
Post by: Alxbates on February 12, 2015, 12:50:27 AM
I do love that painted pic - probably my favorite thing about making miniatures is seeing what other people do with them once they're out of my hands.
Title: Re: Denizens of Azor preview thread - Okros, deer-like dinosaurs.
Post by: Hobby Services on February 12, 2015, 01:26:53 AM
They are both available!

The first one funded the second - if this new one sells well I'm going to have a set of three lesser priestesses made - wielding swords & wearing slightly more battle-practical outfits.

Thanks, I'll have to see about getting an order together.

"Practical" is overrated when it comes to miniatures' outfits.  :)
Title: Re: Denizens of Azor preview thread - Okros, deer-like dinosaurs.
Post by: Doomsdave on February 15, 2015, 09:54:50 AM
All of these are great.  So we can no longer get the first snake priestess?
Title: Re: Denizens of Azor preview thread - Okros, deer-like dinosaurs.
Post by: Alxbates on February 16, 2015, 03:52:58 PM
All of these are great.  So we can no longer get the first snake priestess?

The first one is still available.  I'm not sure where this is coming from - you're the second person who has asked if the first one was discontinued.  They're both available!

I plan to eventually have an entire Snake Cult of warrior women and priestesses available.  Buy many, so I can make the next figures sooner rather than later!  :D

-Alex
Title: Re: Denizens of Azor preview thread - Okros, deer-like dinosaurs.
Post by: Doomsdave on February 16, 2015, 10:58:30 PM
Sweet.  I love your figures. 
Title: Re: Denizens of Azor preview thread - Okros, deer-like dinosaurs.
Post by: Argonor on February 21, 2015, 03:32:28 AM
Need to follow!  8)
Title: Re: Denizens of Azor preview thread - Okros, deer-like dinosaurs.
Post by: Hobby Services on February 21, 2015, 06:39:36 PM
The first one is still available.  I'm not sure where this is coming from - you're the second person who has asked if the first one was discontinued.  They're both available!

I plan to eventually have an entire Snake Cult of warrior women and priestesses available.  Buy many, so I can make the next figures sooner rather than later!  :D

-Alex

It's probably because the "available products" link you provided way back when

http://forum54.oli.us/index.php/topic,6610.0.html

doesn't list her.  Some of us are Facebook-averse, you know.
Title: Re: Denizens of Azor preview thread - Okros, deer-like dinosaurs.
Post by: Alxbates on February 21, 2015, 08:46:00 PM
It's probably because the "available products" link you provided way back when

*link redacted*

doesn't list her.  Some of us are Facebook-averse, you know.

Fair enough.

Thanks for the heads-up - I've removed that link, as it's a bit dated.  It was current a year ago when I posted it, but a few things are sold out now, and I have a few new items.

I suppose I could post a complete product list here for the Facebook-averse, if it isn't against the forum rules...?  I have gotten some sales out of this post, but somehow posting a catalog listing here seems like crossing a line.

-Alex
Title: Re: Denizens of Azor preview thread - Okros, deer-like dinosaurs.
Post by: von Lucky on February 21, 2015, 09:30:21 PM
I like the look that you've created - all the best in creating more.
Title: Re: Denizens of Azor preview thread - Okros, deer-like dinosaurs.
Post by: FramFramson on February 21, 2015, 09:35:31 PM
I don't think there's an issue with posting your catalogue so long as it's kept brief and clear. I can immediately think of a half-dozen LAF members who sell minis through the boards, post8ing regular updates and product lists and it's not a problem for anyone.
Title: Re: Denizens of Azor preview thread - Okros, deer-like dinosaurs.
Post by: Hobby Services on February 22, 2015, 01:25:36 AM
The Bazaar of Obscurities has both Sale/Trade and Commercial boards, depending on how much like a company you feel like being.  Either one would probably be okay for posting an "items available" catalog.  Not that I see it as a problem here on this thread either, but I'm not the moderator.

Easiest approach might be to just set up a freebie blog page and put the catalog there, modifying it as needed and linking back from wherever you're posting.  Takes all of about ten minutes to set one of those up, and it gives you a place to rant or host photos or whatever that isn't on an actual social media site.
Title: Re: Denizens of Azor preview thread - Okros, deer-like dinosaurs.
Post by: ShortscaleDave on February 27, 2015, 04:01:21 PM
Absolutely love this range and the 'world' they inhabit!  Possessed mummies and snake priestesses are high on my list!
Title: Re: Denizens of Azor preview thread - Okros, deer-like dinosaurs.
Post by: Duke Donald on February 27, 2015, 07:45:11 PM
I could be tempted to buy some of your minis if you provided a list of what's available  ;).
Title: Re: Denizens of Azor preview thread - Okros, deer-like dinosaurs.
Post by: Alxbates on February 27, 2015, 08:53:04 PM
Another new sculpt has arrived, this one from the desk of the talented mister Mark Evans:

(http://i16.photobucket.com/albums/b31/Alxbates/Mark%20Evans%20Jungle%20Queen%204_zpsu1wgb2nj.jpg) (http://s16.photobucket.com/user/Alxbates/media/Mark%20Evans%20Jungle%20Queen%204_zpsu1wgb2nj.jpg.html)

More pictures on the Facebook page:

www.Facebook.com/ForgeofIce

And I've not forgotten you folks who aren't on Facebook, I'll post a complete list with prices to the appropriate forum soon.

-Alex
Title: Re: Denizens of Azor preview thread - the Queen of the Jungle!
Post by: d phipps on February 27, 2015, 09:49:21 PM
Outstanding work! Another great addition to your line.  :-*
Title: Re: Denizens of Azor preview thread - the Queen of the Jungle!
Post by: Alxbates on February 28, 2015, 04:51:32 AM
As promised, here's a link to the complete current product & price list, posted to the Commercial forum:

http://leadadventureforum.com/index.php?topic=76128.msg931070

I will update and edit the price list as necessary.

-Alex
Title: Re: Denizens of Azor preview thread - the Queen of the Jungle!
Post by: The_Wisecrack on March 02, 2015, 05:25:44 PM
Bit late here but your work, drive and motivation is an inspiration to the small wargame related business owner like myself. i would be eager to trade some free hero paintjobs so that i may simply be able to put some paint on these amazing and intuitive designs! if you would be up for a chat pm me  :)

www.ezpainter.co.uk
Title: Re: Denizens of Azor preview thread - the Queen of the Jungle!
Post by: Alxbates on March 03, 2015, 12:04:00 PM
Bit late here but your work, drive and motivation is an inspiration to the small wargame related business owner like myself. i would be eager to trade some free hero paintjobs so that i may simply be able to put some paint on these amazing and intuitive designs! if you would be up for a chat pm me  :)

www.ezpainter.co.uk

Thanks for the kind words, Wisecrack - you're going to make me blush!

I generally do most of my own painting, and I already have a couple of 'go-to' painters for when I need things done - but I'll keep you in mind for the next time I have something that needs some paint.

-Alex
Title: Re: Denizens of Azor preview thread - the Queen of the Jungle!
Post by: Mason on March 03, 2015, 12:32:38 PM
My Okros turned up this morning.
Lovely clean castings.
Cheers, Alex!
 :D

Title: Re: Snake Cult Starter Kit received
Post by: Valerik on March 10, 2015, 10:55:08 PM
My viper bedecked babes, er priestesses arrived yesterday.
I'll be marshaling the mugs, mooks, n'minions, adding the acolytes & sourcing their shrine soon.

I am MOST pleased with these lovely ladies!!

Along with all the other bits n'boobs n'bobs they arrived in 3 days from Alaska!!

I've heard grumbles here, & more elsewhere, that Forge of Ice/Alex Bates, lacking a viable web presence, is somehow suspect, or unprofessional, questionable even.

Please allow me to disabuse EVERYONE of such notions. 
Alex was communicative, responsive, forbearing & understanding during our transaction. 
His products are innovative, crisply & cleanly cast, well packed & delivered promptly.
I couldn't be more satisfied with my purchase, its professional manufacture & handling.

Alex's figures are very nice, comparing favourably with my standard benchmarks:
Harwood Hobbies & Pulp Alley/Statuesque Miniatures. 
They exhibit low/no flash, expressive, interesting, exciting designs well executed.
Alex's creations are as useful as they are affordable.

I tried to decide if I like the first priestess (yes, she IS still available!!) better'n the 2nd,
but then they both started squabbling & threatened to sic their pets on me...
So, officially, I do NOT have a favourite...

As for the rest of the stuff I bought mostly parts n'pieces.

Let me highly recommend the turtles!!  Great for perils in those damp n'squishy spots on the table where crocs, hippopotomi n'gators might not be able to hide so good. Bought sight unseen I'm frankly delighted.  The shell "shields" will do nicely as waterline testudines, box & snapping varietals, whilst the critter herself is just plain ORNERY!!  I'm looking forward to painting them.

The primitive weapons are nicely rendered & well detailed, I instantly decided I need more of 'em, as well as more turtles.  The shields are nicely rendered too.
The Venus will be a superb plot point for Pulp Alley, especially if she is cursed!!

I'm quite looking forward to the Jungle Queen becoming available, soon I hope!!
Ditto a Kickstarter, I'll back Alex & Forge of Ice, colour me a contented consumer.

My next order I might try some of the fantasy critters on for size.

Thanks Alex!

Valerik

"There's death a dozen times over, down the river..."
Mr Charles Allnutt, Esq.


Title: Re: Denizens of Azor preview thread - the Queen of the Jungle!
Post by: wulfgar22 on March 11, 2015, 10:29:28 AM
My snake ladies arrived nice and quick here in the UK with no problems!
Title: Re: Denizens of Azor preview thread - the Queen of the Jungle!
Post by: FifteensAway on March 13, 2015, 01:56:52 AM
Okay, I want at least three of the snake bedecked priestess figures - but in 15 mm.  When can I expect delivery!?   ;)
Title: Re: Denizens of Azor preview thread - the Queen of the Jungle!
Post by: Alxbates on March 13, 2015, 11:15:34 PM
Okay, I want at least three of the snake bedecked priestess figures - but in 15 mm.  When can I expect delivery!?   ;)

I'm sorry to say that I have no plans to do anything in 15mm.  Perhaps they could be tropical Storm Giants?
Title: Re: Denizens of Azor preview thread - the Queen of the Jungle!
Post by: Alxbates on March 13, 2015, 11:24:55 PM
My snake ladies arrived nice and quick here in the UK with no problems!

Glad to hear it Wulfgar!

-Alex
Title: Re: Snake Cult Starter Kit received
Post by: Alxbates on March 13, 2015, 11:39:46 PM

I've heard grumbles here, & more elsewhere, that Forge of Ice/Alex Bates, lacking a viable web presence, is somehow suspect, or unprofessional, questionable even.


Believe me, I am *very* aware that my lack of a working online store is a pain in the ass for everyone involved.  I just barely remember the days of ordering miniatures via mail order, sight-unseen, from a catalog of line drawings, not even photographs of the figures... but that was a long time ago. 


Please allow me to disabuse EVERYONE of such notions. 
Alex was communicative, responsive, forbearing & understanding during our transaction. 
His products are innovative, crisply & cleanly cast, well packed & delivered promptly.
I couldn't be more satisfied with my purchase, its professional manufacture & handling.

Alex's figures are very nice, comparing favourably with my standard benchmarks:
Harwood Hobbies & Pulp Alley/Statuesque Miniatures. 
They exhibit low/no flash, expressive, interesting, exciting designs well executed.
Alex's creations are as useful as they are affordable.

I tried to decide if I like the first priestess (yes, she IS still available!!) better'n the 2nd,
but then they both started squabbling & threatened to sic their pets on me...
So, officially, I do NOT have a favourite...

As for the rest of the stuff I bought mostly parts n'pieces.

Let me highly recommend the turtles!!  Great for perils in those damp n'squishy spots on the table where crocs, hippopotomi n'gators might not be able to hide so good. Bought sight unseen I'm frankly delighted.  The shell "shields" will do nicely as waterline testudines, box & snapping varietals, whilst the critter herself is just plain ORNERY!!  I'm looking forward to painting them.

The primitive weapons are nicely rendered & well detailed, I instantly decided I need more of 'em, as well as more turtles.  The shields are nicely rendered too.

The Venus will be a superb plot point for Pulp Alley, especially if she is cursed!!

I'm quite looking forward to the Jungle Queen becoming available, soon I hope!!
Ditto a Kickstarter, I'll back Alex & Forge of Ice, colour me a contented consumer.

My next order I might try some of the fantasy critters on for size.

Thanks Alex!

Valerik

"There's death a dozen times over, down the river..."
Mr Charles Allnutt, Esq.



Thank you very much for the endorsement and the kind words!

-Alex
Title: Re: Denizens of Azor preview thread - Sleazy Merchant & Sleepy Sentries
Post by: Alxbates on April 09, 2015, 02:02:20 PM
I think that I have mentioned that I'm planning a Kickstarter to release a small batch of figures.

Here they are!  It's a Sleazy Merchant and his Sleepy Sentries.

(http://i16.photobucket.com/albums/b31/Alxbates/Sleepy%20Sentries%20and%20Merchant%20for%20KS%20pic%202_zpshhfvhnxx.jpg) (http://s16.photobucket.com/user/Alxbates/media/Sleepy%20Sentries%20and%20Merchant%20for%20KS%20pic%202_zpshhfvhnxx.jpg.html)

Every RPG I've played in always seems to have a sleazy merchant or slave trader or crooked senator as a villain, and he always seems to have low-rent guards who are prone to falling asleep on the job.  Or getting drunk, or perhaps ensorcled.

The ancient city, Azor, is decadent and corrupt, and this fellow is a fine example of the sort of corrupt official that can make life troublesome for the protagonists.  He was sculpted by Kev White and painted by Jason Huffman.  

(http://i16.photobucket.com/albums/b31/Alxbates/Sleazy%20merchant%20painted%20and%20green_zpscimi8t2z.jpg) (http://s16.photobucket.com/user/Alxbates/media/Sleazy%20merchant%20painted%20and%20green_zpscimi8t2z.jpg.html)

There are six guards in total, all sculpted by Bobby Jackson - two standing awake and alert, and four in various stages of slacking off all the way to slumber.

(http://i16.photobucket.com/albums/b31/Alxbates/Awake%20Sentries%20front_zps2fxdcmxn.jpg) (http://s16.photobucket.com/user/Alxbates/media/Awake%20Sentries%20front_zps2fxdcmxn.jpg.html)

(http://i16.photobucket.com/albums/b31/Alxbates/Sleepy%20Sentries%20for%20KS%20front%202_zpsqnyzkda4.jpg) (http://s16.photobucket.com/user/Alxbates/media/Sleepy%20Sentries%20for%20KS%20front%202_zpsqnyzkda4.jpg.html)

Everything has already been sculpted, and master castings have been made - all is ready for production.

Should the KS be wildly successful I do have a couple of small stretch goals in mind, shields and some loot for the guards to be standing watch over (admittedly not doing a very good job at it), but the plan is to keep things very simple and straightforward.

Thanks for looking - I'll post more news as things get closer to being released.

The armored crocodile, Queen of the Jungle, the Snakeman and a terrain piece are also all expected to be ready this summer, too!

-Alex in Alaska
Title: Re: Denizens of Azor preview thread - Sleazy Merchant & Sleepy Sentries
Post by: Earther on April 09, 2015, 02:59:16 PM
Brilliant!  :o
Title: Re: Denizens of Azor preview thread - Sleazy Merchant & Sleepy Sentries
Post by: Duke Donald on April 09, 2015, 05:10:54 PM
Excellent sculpts!
Title: Re: Denizens of Azor preview thread - Sleazy Merchant & Sleepy Sentries
Post by: d phipps on April 09, 2015, 07:11:28 PM
Excellent!  :-* :-*
Title: Re: Denizens of Azor preview thread - Pterro-Man, dinosaur eggs & little cycad ferns
Post by: ShortscaleDave on April 10, 2015, 10:56:48 AM
QUOTING IN FULL BECAUSE AWESOME!  How did I miss that pic first time around. I'm calling it: best serpent man sculpt I've ever seen. DO. WANT.

This here is just an early in-progress picture, but I'm super stoked about it, so I'm going to show it off!

A serpent man sculpted by Mr. John Dennett!  Some of you may remember his work from Grenadier in the 1980's - his Monster Manuscript figures are still some of my all time favorites.

The Histath are a race of mostly plains-dwelling dinosaur tamers and riders.  Nomadic and predatory, they live in small family groups or tribes, occasionally uniting to raid (or trade with!) the human and subhuman inhabitants of Azor.

(http://i16.photobucket.com/albums/b31/Alxbates/Histathbasicformsblockedout_zps38a0b395.jpg) (http://s16.photobucket.com/user/Alxbates/media/Histathbasicformsblockedout_zps38a0b395.jpg.html)

(http://i16.photobucket.com/albums/b31/Alxbates/Histathbasicformsblockedout2_zps980d0cbf.jpg) (http://s16.photobucket.com/user/Alxbates/media/Histathbasicformsblockedout2_zps980d0cbf.jpg.html)

(http://i16.photobucket.com/albums/b31/Alxbates/Histathbasicformsblockedout3_zps072c82b6.jpg) (http://s16.photobucket.com/user/Alxbates/media/Histathbasicformsblockedout3_zps072c82b6.jpg.html)
Title: Re: Denizens of Azor preview thread - Sleazy Merchant & Sleepy Sentries
Post by: beefcake on April 10, 2015, 11:29:17 AM
It is definitely cool. I prefer snakemen leg less but this one is an exception for me. Must get!
When is the KS planned?
Title: Re: Denizens of Azor preview thread - Pterro-Man, dinosaur eggs & little cycad ferns
Post by: Alxbates on April 10, 2015, 11:36:47 AM
QUOTING IN FULL BECAUSE AWESOME!  How did I miss that pic first time around. I'm calling it: best serpent man sculpt I've ever seen. DO. WANT.


OK, Dave, since you're so enthusiastic, I'll post a preview of the nearly-finished figure.  It's basically done except for the spear.

(http://i16.photobucket.com/albums/b31/Alxbates/DSC01689_zpsicfjx1vn.jpeg) (http://s16.photobucket.com/user/Alxbates/media/DSC01689_zpsicfjx1vn.jpeg.html)

(http://i16.photobucket.com/albums/b31/Alxbates/DSC01693_zpsafjozyv4.jpeg) (http://s16.photobucket.com/user/Alxbates/media/DSC01693_zpsafjozyv4.jpeg.html)

He'll be released this summer with the Jungle Queen and armored crocodile from earlier, along with a certain terrain piece.

Then, after that, an entire tribe...
Title: Re: Denizens of Azor preview thread - Sleazy Merchant & Sleepy Sentries
Post by: wulfgar22 on April 10, 2015, 11:57:56 AM
 :-* He's brilliant!
Title: Re: Denizens of Azor preview thread - Sleazy Merchant & Sleepy Sentries
Post by: ShortscaleDave on April 10, 2015, 12:00:32 PM
Phenomenally good!  I thought it looked great smooth, but the detailing is next level!

Bring on the whole tribe!
Title: Re: Denizens of Azor preview thread - Sleazy Merchant & Sleepy Sentries
Post by: Alxbates on April 10, 2015, 12:09:32 PM
John Dennett sculpted him - he did all the best figures for Grenadier back in the 1980's.  I feel privileged that this snakeman is the first gaming figure that he's done in a long time.  He is a MASTER of the craft.

These days, he mostly sculpts monsters for garage kits - check out his website!

http://www.moondevilstudio.com/
Title: Re: Denizens of Azor preview thread - Sleazy Merchant & Sleepy Sentries
Post by: Wolf Girl on April 10, 2015, 03:44:19 PM
The Sleazy Merchant & Sleepy Sentries  are awesome!  :-*
Title: Re: Denizens of Azor preview thread - Pterro-Man, dinosaur eggs & little cycad ferns
Post by: pacarat on April 16, 2015, 07:23:01 PM
OK, Dave, since you're so enthusiastic, I'll post a preview of the nearly-finished figure.  It's basically done except for the spear.

(http://i16.photobucket.com/albums/b31/Alxbates/DSC01689_zpsicfjx1vn.jpeg) (http://s16.photobucket.com/user/Alxbates/media/DSC01689_zpsicfjx1vn.jpeg.html)

(http://i16.photobucket.com/albums/b31/Alxbates/DSC01693_zpsafjozyv4.jpeg) (http://s16.photobucket.com/user/Alxbates/media/DSC01693_zpsafjozyv4.jpeg.html)

He'll be released this summer with the Jungle Queen and armored crocodile from earlier, along with a certain terrain piece.

Then, after that, an entire tribe...

Love the scales and overall proportions. Definitely in for a tribe...keep us posted!
Title: Re: Denizens of Azor preview thread - Sleazy Merchant & Sleepy Sentries
Post by: War In 15MM on April 16, 2015, 09:39:43 PM
That's some seriously beautiful stuff!
Title: Re: Denizens of Azor preview thread - Sleazy Merchant & Sleepy Sentries
Post by: Valerik on April 17, 2015, 04:42:35 AM
Love the scales and overall proportions. Definitely in for a tribe...keep us posted!

Phenomenally good!  I thought it looked great smooth, but the detailing is next level!

Bring on the whole tribe!

Could there be demand enough for TWO tribes, one slick n'smooth, t'other scaly n'tough?

Just speculatin' here, but they are each brilliant, in different ways.

Valerik

prefers lizards to vipers anyday, but a fan of neither
Title: Re: Denizens of Azor preview thread - Sleazy Merchant & Sleepy Sentries
Post by: chirine ba kal on April 17, 2015, 01:01:15 PM
I just discovered this thread and your figures - what's the best way to go about ordering some? I think a lot of them would go over very well in my Tekumel-based games... :)
Title: Re: Denizens of Azor preview thread - Sleazy Merchant & Sleepy Sentries
Post by: Alxbates on April 17, 2015, 05:32:11 PM
I just discovered this thread and your figures - what's the best way to go about ordering some? I think a lot of them would go over very well in my Tekumel-based games... :)

Just send me a PM!

Re: Two different tribes - anything is possible!  Vote with your wallet when they're for sale :)
Title: Re: Denizens of Azor preview thread - Histath, Snake-man by John Dennett
Post by: chirine ba kal on April 18, 2015, 04:40:45 AM
Thank you for the reply! I'll have a look, and get right back to you - I missed out on your huts and tents, and my tribal hordes have never forgiven me...:)
Title: Re: Denizens of Azor preview thread - Histath, Snake-man by John Dennett
Post by: Alxbates on April 18, 2015, 07:18:56 PM
The Histath arrived in the mail yesterday!  I am one happy camper - holding a John Dennett original sculpt in my hand is a pretty awesome feeling!

I've got the Histath next to one of John's old Grenadier sculpts (a Lizard King) for size reference... and also because I wanted to compare his 20-year-old work to his current stuff.  I love how his style still shows through, but you can tell that he's had a few years of practice between then and now.   :-*

It's hard to say what my favorite part of making minaitures is - I love designing creatures and settings, I love seeing designs from my imagination become reality, I love seeing how people paint them in ways that I never imagined, I love seeing my world and setting slowly become populated, I love writing background and story, but MAN it is hard to beat the feeling of holding an original sculpt that was made by someone whose work I've been a fan of since childhood.

I'm waiting on a few more pieces from a couple of other sculptors, but I expect I'll have castings of this guy for sale in June-July.

(http://i16.photobucket.com/albums/b31/Alxbates/Histath%20next%20to%20Lizard%20King_zpscqa5ejgj.jpg) (http://s16.photobucket.com/user/Alxbates/media/Histath%20next%20to%20Lizard%20King_zpscqa5ejgj.jpg.html)
Title: Re: Denizens of Azor preview thread - Histath, Snake-man by John Dennett
Post by: Valerik on April 18, 2015, 11:36:23 PM
Very Spiffy!!

The lineage, and the experience, shows, nicely.

June-Julu ish ya say?

Will this release be in addition to the Kickstarter?

Valerik

rarely afflicted with Post Purchase Cognitive Dissonance
Title: Re: Denizens of Azor preview thread - Histath, Snake-man by John Dennett
Post by: Furt on April 18, 2015, 11:57:27 PM
The Histath is a great sculpt indeed and fits nicely with the old Grenadier Lizard King.

I may have missed this but are there other Histath sculpts planned or just this one?
Title: Re: Denizens of Azor preview thread - Histath, Snake-man by John Dennett
Post by: Alxbates on April 19, 2015, 01:49:25 AM
Very Spiffy!!

The lineage, and the experience, shows, nicely.

June-Julu ish ya say?

Will this release be in addition to the Kickstarter?

Valerik

rarely afflicted with Post Purchase Cognitive Dissonance

Yep, I have a separate set of releases planned that'll be coming out at about the same time as the KS is wrapping up - the production molds just might all get made at the same time.

Jason Wiebe is currently working on some variant poses of the armored crocodile, I'll have the snakeman, the Jungle Queen, by Mark Evans, two small terrain pieces by Patrick Keith, and possibly two more creatures from Jason Monkman and Des Hanley (depending on how quickly they're finished) AND one large terrain piece (which will almost certainly be done in resin).  I'll probably sculpt a couple of little bits and bobs, too.  I'm going to have a relatively large (for me!) number of releases coming out this summer! 

I'll be casting the Histath, three Armored Crocodile variants, and the Jungle Queen at the same time for sure.  The others might all be in a later batch, depending on when they're finished.

So... yes!  June-July-ish :)

-Alex
Title: Re: Denizens of Azor preview thread - Histath, Snake-man by John Dennett
Post by: Alxbates on April 19, 2015, 01:53:22 AM
I may have missed this but are there other Histath sculpts planned or just this one?

I do plan to have an entire tribe made.

Eventually!  "Soon"!  

 ;)

-Alex
Title: Re: Denizens of Azor preview thread - Histath, Snake-man by John Dennett
Post by: Furt on April 19, 2015, 07:46:28 AM
I do plan to have an entire tribe made.


That is great news! The Histathi (???) look so primal without any other adornments except that big *#$@ off spear. Very old school.  :)

Are you planning some action oriented poses with the rest of the tribe? Any other weaponry other than spears? And what about a shaman or leader type? Although the lizard King would suffice nicely.

Really very impressed with all this stuff.
Title: Re: Denizens of Azor preview thread - Histath, Snake-man by John Dennett
Post by: pacarat on April 19, 2015, 08:34:01 AM
That is great news! The Histathi (???) look so primal without any other adornments except that big *#$@ off spear. Very old school.  :)

And it speaks volumes for the talent of the sculptor when all you have "extra" is a single weapon...
Title: Re: Denizens of Azor preview thread - Histath, Snake-man by John Dennett
Post by: Alxbates on April 20, 2015, 08:14:57 PM
That is great news! The Histathi (???) look so primal without any other adornments except that big *#$@ off spear. Very old school.  :)

Are you planning some action oriented poses with the rest of the tribe? Any other weaponry other than spears? And what about a shaman or leader type? Although the lizard King would suffice nicely.

Really very impressed with all this stuff.

It's "Histath", both singular and plural.  One Histath, two Histath, many Histath.  The ape-man just call them "Iz-ta", and some humans & giants mispronounce it as "Hista", but it's "Histath.  The digraph "th" at the end of the word is properly pronounced as a simple exhalation, but "HISS-toth" is considered acceptable.

...I promise that I'll keep that sort of grammatical stuff to an absolute minimum when it comes time to get the rulebook together...

Some action poses will definitely be coming.  Spears are their primary weapons - some relatively short stabbing spears like this, some long African Assegai-type lances, as well.  Leaders & chiefs are definitely in order (Des Hanley has done some wonderful design artwork for them!), although most likely not any shaman or mage-types - most Histath are utterly without superstition, and they generally don't have much in the way of emotions or personal ego, either (they do have a certain racial pride and confidence in their own superiority, though).  They are free-willed intelligent beings, and while one can make general assertions about the natural inclinations of the varied species of sentient races, there are of course exceptions to the rule.  The Histath are more uniform than humans, but they do have their occasional individual tyrants, artists and eccentrics.
Title: Re: Denizens of Azor preview thread - Histath, Snake-man by John Dennett
Post by: Furt on April 20, 2015, 09:49:41 PM
Most excellent! Glad I asked!

Sounds like you've given this a good bit of thought!  lol
Title: Re: Denizens of Azor preview thread - Histath, Snake-man by John Dennett
Post by: Duke Donald on May 08, 2015, 04:59:06 PM
This is a very nice mini!
Title: Re: Denizens of Azor preview thread - Histath, Snake-man by John Dennett
Post by: wulfgar22 on May 08, 2015, 07:20:59 PM
Brilliant. Can't wait till he's released!
Title: Re: Denizens of Azor preview thread - Histath, Snake-man by John Dennett
Post by: surixurient on May 18, 2015, 08:50:34 PM
Hi, do you have a list of all of the miniatures which you sell anywhere?  I think your facebook page is not working.  https://www.facebook.com/ForgeOfIce
Title: Re: Denizens of Azor preview thread - Histath, Snake-man by John Dennett
Post by: Alxbates on May 18, 2015, 10:29:25 PM
Hi, do you have a list of all of the miniatures which you sell anywhere?  I think your facebook page is not working.  https://www.facebook.com/ForgeOfIce

I'm not sure what's going on there - that link works fine for me.  Here it is again, copied and pasted from my browser:

https://www.facebook.com/ForgeOfIce

But, if you can't find it (if you're logged on Facebook & cant get the link to work, typing "Forge of Ice" into the navigation bar should get you there), I do also have a product and price list posted here to the LAF:

http://leadadventureforum.com/index.php?topic=76128.0

Hope that helps!

-Alex
Title: Re: Denizens of Azor preview thread - Histath, Snake-man by John Dennett
Post by: wulfgar22 on May 20, 2015, 05:52:54 PM
My snake priestesses along with their mistress, the Atlantean Queen, her Atlantean Guards and an Atlantean War Ape...

(http://i.imgur.com/or4dNLj.jpg)

...painted for me by the inimitable Matt Slade (http://mattsgamepage.blogspot.co.uk/)!

Now just eagerly awaiting the Histath!
Title: Re: Denizens of Azor preview thread - Histath, Snake-man by John Dennett
Post by: von Lucky on May 20, 2015, 10:28:13 PM
Lovely. This range really is getting a lot of depth with each release / paint job.
Title: Re: Denizens of Azor preview thread - Histath, Snake-man by John Dennett
Post by: Alxbates on May 21, 2015, 03:20:09 PM
My snake priestesses along with their mistress, the Atlantean Queen, her Atlantean Guards and an Atlantean War Ape...

(http://i.imgur.com/or4dNLj.jpg)

...painted for me by the inimitable Matt Slade (http://mattsgamepage.blogspot.co.uk/)!

Now just eagerly awaiting the Histath!

Wulfgar - those look great all together like that!  Thanks for sharing the pic!

I've thought about buying that same snake statue and bonsai trees to use as terrain pieces, too - it seems that we have similar tastes!
Title: Re: Denizens of Azor preview thread - Histath, Snake-man by John Dennett
Post by: wulfgar22 on May 21, 2015, 06:48:42 PM
I'm a bit rubbish at the hobby side of things so aquarium decorations are a life saver!
Title: Re: Denizens of Azor preview thread - Histath, Snake-man by John Dennett
Post by: magokiron on May 23, 2015, 07:21:28 PM
Great range of minis.

The KS will be alive in July you said?

Can't wait to see more.

Best wsihes.
Title: Re: Denizens of Azor preview thread - Histath, Snake-man by John Dennett
Post by: Alxbates on May 27, 2015, 01:21:32 PM
Great range of minis.

The KS will be alive in July you said?

Can't wait to see more.

Best wsihes.

Shooting for July.

I've been dragging my feet on it for over a year - I want to be absolutely, positively sure that I have all my ducks in a row before I start it.  I've been burned twice by Kickstarters that have failed, and been quite happy with about a dozen others that I've supported.  This will be my first foray into crowd funding, and so I'd rather over-prepare and start a little late than rush in when I'm not ready.

I'm probably overthinking it.
Title: Re: Denizens of Azor preview thread - Histath, Snake-man by John Dennett
Post by: pistolpete on May 27, 2015, 02:02:27 PM
alxbates - i love those snake priestess and the queen too.  as if i didn't have enough on my wish list.
Title: Re: Denizens of Azor preview thread - Histath, Snake-man by John Dennett
Post by: d phipps on May 27, 2015, 03:08:03 PM
Great looking miniatures. I'm looking forward to the Kickstarter.  :D
Title: Re: Denizens of Azor preview thread - Histath, Snake-man by John Dennett
Post by: Argonor on May 27, 2015, 10:02:30 PM
I love every bit I'm seeing here.  :-*

Your stuff will be high on my priority list when choosing what to buy for new Pulp Alley leagues and Strange Aeons/VuK.  ;D

Somewhen after the summer holidays, judging from my current backlog of WIP projects  lol
Title: Re: Denizens of Azor preview thread - Histath, Snake-man by John Dennett
Post by: Alxbates on May 30, 2015, 08:51:01 PM
Rounding out my summer releases, a set of Pithoi storage jars sculpted digitally by Patrick Keith.

(http://i16.photobucket.com/albums/b31/Alxbates/Pithoi%20Prints_zpsjssa27rz.jpg) (http://s16.photobucket.com/user/Alxbates/media/Pithoi%20Prints_zpsjssa27rz.jpg.html)

Useful as terrain elements, scenario objectives or treasure markers!

Pithoi were used from the neolithic through the iron age for storing bulk goods like grain, wine, or oil, and in Azor they're used for the same thing.

-Alex
Title: Re: Denizens of Azor preview thread - Pithoi terrain bits
Post by: Alxbates on June 19, 2015, 05:11:33 PM
The Histath of Azor, the snake-men of the plains, tell old legends of once living in stone houses, tall and cool and elegant.  Today they are a nomadic people, following the great herds as they migrate across the land.  Their cities forgotten, their legacy naught but hazy memories and dust.

And yet... here and there, hidden under sand and vine, traces linger.

Who knows what ancient god or demon, sorcerer or king, this statue represents?  

*****

Some of you may have seen this in Shortscaledave's thread, but I'm excited to say that I'm adding it to my line of stuff.  It should be finished this summer, cast in resin and for sale the fall.

(http://i16.photobucket.com/albums/b31/Alxbates/Dave%20Cauley%20Snake%20Man%20Statue%20Doom_zpsourocugx.jpg) (http://s16.photobucket.com/user/Alxbates/media/Dave%20Cauley%20Snake%20Man%20Statue%20Doom_zpsourocugx.jpg.html)
Title: Re: Denizens of Azor preview thread - Pithoi terrain bits
Post by: Alxbates on July 09, 2015, 12:38:13 PM
Three new armored crocodiles by Jason Wiebe!  One is completely new, the other two are conversions of the original sculpt - all four (the three new ones plus the original) are at the caster now.

(http://i16.photobucket.com/albums/b31/Alxbates/FOI%20July%20releases%204_zpsa25o3sdl.jpg) (http://s16.photobucket.com/user/Alxbates/media/FOI%20July%20releases%204_zpsa25o3sdl.jpg.html)
Title: Re: Denizens of Azor preview thread - New armored crocodiles
Post by: Alxbates on July 09, 2015, 12:40:24 PM
I've just sent all these figures to the caster!  I'm really looking forward to painting the Histath & the armored crocs.

I'll post something here again when they're all available.

(http://i16.photobucket.com/albums/b31/Alxbates/FOI%20July%20releases%201_zps9wzosy1a.jpg) (http://s16.photobucket.com/user/Alxbates/media/FOI%20July%20releases%201_zps9wzosy1a.jpg.html)
Title: Re: Denizens of Azor preview thread - New Armored Crocodiles
Post by: pacarat on July 09, 2015, 05:10:48 PM
Very nice!

On my list for acquisition...
Title: Re: Denizens of Azor preview thread - New Armored Crocodiles
Post by: d phipps on July 09, 2015, 05:28:53 PM
Fantastic!  :-*
Title: Re: Denizens of Azor preview thread - New Armored Crocodiles
Post by: pulpgoblin on July 09, 2015, 07:58:51 PM
So much cool stuff - going to have to get some of your stuff soon!
Title: Re: Denizens of Azor preview thread - New Armored Crocodiles
Post by: Amalric on July 14, 2015, 08:29:07 PM
Awesome!

More stuff Ill have to buy and paint.

Will the large lizardman remain a bust or a whole figure, ie arms and legs added?
Title: Re: Denizens of Azor preview thread - New Armored Crocodiles
Post by: Wolf Girl on July 14, 2015, 10:21:32 PM
Great looking miniatures!  ;)
Title: Re: Denizens of Azor preview thread - New Armored Crocodiles
Post by: OSHIROmodels on July 14, 2015, 10:27:03 PM
A very interesting range of figures  8)

cheers

James
Title: Re: Denizens of Azor preview thread - New Armored Crocodiles
Post by: Alxbates on July 17, 2015, 02:18:54 AM
Awesome!

More stuff Ill have to buy and paint.

Will the large lizardman remain a bust or a whole figure, ie arms and legs added?

It's going to remain a bust, a statue or idol.

-Alex
Title: Re: Denizens of Azor preview thread - New Armored Crocodiles
Post by: Alxbates on September 10, 2015, 07:58:31 PM
Heya Lead Adventurers!

All of my summer castings have arrived - the Histath, the Jungle Queen, the pithoi, the armored crocodiles, and some detailed bases, too.  I should have them sorted and for sale by the end of the week!

(http://i16.photobucket.com/albums/b31/Alxbates/FOI%20Fall%20releases%202015_zpsvsdtthpi.png) (http://s16.photobucket.com/user/Alxbates/media/FOI%20Fall%20releases%202015_zpsvsdtthpi.png.html)

And, for my winter stuff, the LAF's own Shortscale Dave is making excellent progress with a sphinx-like statue of a Dsungaripterus!  He's got his own thread detailing the sculpt over on the Fantasy boards ( http://leadadventureforum.com/index.php?topic=82336.0 ), but here's a pic of it in-progress as of this morning:

(http://i16.photobucket.com/albums/b31/Alxbates/Pterro%20Sphynx%20by%20Dave%20Cauley%20wings%20added_zpso2rmphoe.jpg) (http://s16.photobucket.com/user/Alxbates/media/Pterro%20Sphynx%20by%20Dave%20Cauley%20wings%20added_zpso2rmphoe.jpg.html)

I'll post again in a few days when everything is unpacked & sorted and ready to go!
Title: Re: Denizens of Azor preview thread - New Armored Crocodiles
Post by: von Lucky on September 11, 2015, 12:11:02 PM
I like that. So different (in a good way).
Title: Re: Denizens of Azor preview thread - New Armored Crocodiles
Post by: orc on September 13, 2015, 07:04:35 AM
Great Miniatures Here! I love them!! I send you a PM!!!

Title: Re: Denizens of Azor preview thread - New Armored Crocodiles
Post by: Alxbates on September 27, 2015, 04:54:17 PM
Well, I'm still sorting and unpacking and such, but in the meantime, Andrew Taylor has painted a few of my miniatures.  I'm quite happy with how they turned out!

(http://i16.photobucket.com/albums/b31/Alxbates/Andrew%20Taylor%20painted%20Snake%20Priestesses%20front_zpsmucmhkhe.jpg) (http://s16.photobucket.com/user/Alxbates/media/Andrew%20Taylor%20painted%20Snake%20Priestesses%20front_zpsmucmhkhe.jpg.html)

(http://i16.photobucket.com/albums/b31/Alxbates/Andrew%20Taylor%20painted%20Jungle%20Lord%20front_zpspx6dyums.jpg) (http://s16.photobucket.com/user/Alxbates/media/Andrew%20Taylor%20painted%20Jungle%20Lord%20front_zpspx6dyums.jpg.html)
Title: Re: Denizens of Azor preview thread - Painted Priestesses!
Post by: d phipps on September 27, 2015, 11:14:01 PM
Lovely work! We could definitely use those in Pulp Alley.  :-*
Title: Re: Denizens of Azor preview thread - Painted Priestesses!
Post by: von Lucky on September 28, 2015, 11:06:40 AM
Very nice skin tones.
Title: Re: Denizens of Azor preview thread - Painted Priestesses!
Post by: shadowking1957 on September 28, 2015, 10:01:18 PM
Wonderful stuff is the jungle queen and jungle lord available please if so how much UK?
Title: Re: Denizens of Azor preview thread - Painted Priestesses!
Post by: Muzfish4 on September 29, 2015, 04:57:11 AM
Late to the party, but keen to know if the kickstarter mentioned a few pages ago is still on the cards?
Title: Re: Denizens of Azor preview thread - Painted Priestesses!
Post by: verd on September 29, 2015, 03:51:33 PM
Awesome!!!   :-*
Title: Re: Denizens of Azor preview thread - Painted Priestesses!
Post by: Reed on September 29, 2015, 04:35:00 PM
Everything in this thread is too tempting...
Title: Re: Denizens of Azor preview thread - Painted Priestesses!
Post by: Traveler Man on September 29, 2015, 05:06:39 PM
Wow! Nice work!  :-*
Title: Re: Denizens of Azor preview thread - Painted Priestesses!
Post by: Alxbates on September 30, 2015, 05:16:17 PM
Late to the party, but keen to know if the kickstarter mentioned a few pages ago is still on the cards?

Kickstarter is still in the cards - "soon".  I'm trying to get it just right.  I'm probably overthinking it.
Title: Re: Denizens of Azor preview thread - Painted Priestesses!
Post by: Alxbates on September 30, 2015, 05:18:00 PM
Everything in this thread is too tempting...

Glad to hear it  :D :D :D
Title: Re: Denizens of Azor preview thread - New Armored Crocodiles
Post by: wargame_insomniac on October 13, 2015, 10:33:32 PM
Well, I'm still sorting and unpacking and such, but in the meantime, Andrew Taylor has painted a few of my miniatures.  I'm quite happy with how they turned out!

(http://i16.photobucket.com/albums/b31/Alxbates/Andrew%20Taylor%20painted%20Snake%20Priestesses%20front_zpsmucmhkhe.jpg) (http://s16.photobucket.com/user/Alxbates/media/Andrew%20Taylor%20painted%20Snake%20Priestesses%20front_zpsmucmhkhe.jpg.html)

(http://i16.photobucket.com/albums/b31/Alxbates/Andrew%20Taylor%20painted%20Jungle%20Lord%20front_zpspx6dyums.jpg) (http://s16.photobucket.com/user/Alxbates/media/Andrew%20Taylor%20painted%20Jungle%20Lord%20front_zpspx6dyums.jpg.html)
Hi

These two figures look great. The one problem I would have is that would nt be able to use them at my local club as not suitable for minors, and we have several member under 16.

If I had any sculpting ability I am sure that would be easy to add some skimpy tops.
But I have neither the tools or the ability, would you be able to tweak these sculpts to do a version that would be Safe For Work?

Thanks

James
Title: Re: Denizens of Azor preview thread - Painted Priestesses!
Post by: pistolpete on October 15, 2015, 04:43:38 PM
wargame_insomniac - i would just file down the nippley bits and then simply paint their tops.  everyone's been to the beach so seeing something akin to bikinis should be generally acceptable.  but then again my FLGS is pretty much a "minors beware" sort of place.
Title: Re: Denizens of Azor preview thread - Painted Priestesses!
Post by: Alxbates on November 07, 2015, 02:55:54 AM
wargame_insomniac - i would just file down the nippley bits and then simply paint their tops.  everyone's been to the beach so seeing something akin to bikinis should be generally acceptable.  but then again my FLGS is pretty much a "minors beware" sort of place.

Sorry for the long-delayed reply - I lost power for a week due to a storm, and then my basement flooded!  I haven't been online much.

Sadly, tweaking sculpts & having new molds made is a prospect that would cost me at least $300, and probably more like $500, so I'm unlikely to do it unless there is a massive demand. 

Never say never, but, I don't see it happening any time soon.

As Wargame Insomniac says, though, it should be very simple to file the nipples off & then simply paint the entire torso between the belt and the collar as if it were cloth.

-Alex in Alaska
Title: Re: Denizens of Azor preview thread - Painted Priestesses!
Post by: Samnite308 on November 07, 2015, 01:30:42 PM
PLEASE PLEASE PLEASE DO NOT make covered up bikini-top versions of the snake priestesses.  It will ruin the whole Minoan look of these beautiful models.  Part of capturing the whole 'Ancient Lost World' appeal is encountering cultures which are strikingly different than our own.  I realise there are a lot of people out there with modesty issues who cant accept the idea that ancient or fantastical cultures might not have hang-ups about partial or total nudity (especially with regard to females). 
Title: Re: Denizens of Azor preview thread - Painted Priestesses!
Post by: axabrax on November 07, 2015, 02:18:26 PM
I agree. It's not worth the cost or the effort.its quite easy to convert the models to make them PG-13. Bette to create more new models!

PLEASE PLEASE PLEASE DO NOT make covered up bikini-top versions of the snake priestesses.  It will ruin the whole Minoan look of these beautiful models.  Part of capturing the whole 'Ancient Lost World' appeal is encountering cultures which are strikingly different than our own.  I realise there are a lot of people out there with modesty issues who cant accept the idea that ancient or fantastical cultures might not have hang-ups about partial or total nudity (especially with regard to females). 
Title: Re: Denizens of Azor preview thread - Painted Priestesses!
Post by: Rhoderic on November 07, 2015, 02:50:37 PM
One would not necessarily have to sculpt anything in order to cover up the ta-tas. I'm thinking, find some round shields that are convex on the front, and cut and file them into smaller discs or squares (the latter might be more in keeping with the quadrangular theme of the outfits). Also file the discs/squares down on the back and file down the breasts a bit (it's not as if all women have breasts that globular, anyway). Glue the discs/squares over the breasts, making them look attached to the collars as if hanging down freely. The slightest bit of sculpting might be required to make short straps between the collars and the discs/squares so they don't have to be directly attached, but that should be manageable. Personally I'd also decorate the discs/squares with further quadrangular bosses, but it wouldn't be necessary.

Anyway, Alxbates, those figures look great! I've been following your forays into the industry side of the hobby since you started, and I admire what you're doing. It's a shame that I've never ordered from you so far. Need to start looking into amending that.
Title: Re: Denizens of Azor preview thread - Painted Priestesses!
Post by: Alxbates on November 13, 2015, 05:20:07 PM
I agree. It's not worth the cost or the effort.its quite easy to convert the models to make them PG-13. Better to create more new models!

I like the way you think, sir!
Title: Re: Denizens of Azor preview thread - Painted Priestesses!
Post by: wargame_insomniac on November 21, 2015, 06:28:21 PM
Sorry for the long-delayed reply - I lost power for a week due to a storm, and then my basement flooded!  I haven't been online much.

Sadly, tweaking sculpts & having new molds made is a prospect that would cost me at least $300, and probably more like $500, so I'm unlikely to do it unless there is a massive demand. 

Never say never, but, I don't see it happening any time soon.

As Wargame Insomniac says, though, it should be very simple to file the nipples off & then simply paint the entire torso between the belt and the collar as if it were cloth.

-Alex in Alaska

No worries Alex

Thanks for reply.
Title: Re: Denizens of Azor preview thread - Painted Priestesses!
Post by: chirine ba kal on November 23, 2015, 07:40:36 AM
Um, I guess I'm a little baffled by the nudity issue. It's like with the Dark Fable Ancient Egyptians - people really did dress this way, back in the day. I certainly do understand the issues; I have 'underage' gamers in my group myself, and I do get concerned over the age/maturity issue. Alex, I don't mean to hijack this thread - I love these figures, and I am enjoying painting them.

Is this an issue we, as 'miniatures people', need to have a discussion about?

And I freely admit that there are some figures in my collection that just don't come out onto the table; the old Citadel 'captives', to be exact. I don't see a need for them in the game that I run - I got them in a bulk buy, decades ago - so they don't get used.
Title: Re: Denizens of Azor preview thread - Painted Priestesses!
Post by: Argonor on November 23, 2015, 12:11:29 PM
Is this an issue we, as 'miniatures people', need to have a discussion about?

Absolutely not. Buy what you want, don't buy what you do not want.
Title: Re: Denizens of Azor preview thread - Painted Priestesses!
Post by: Ballardian on November 23, 2015, 01:38:23 PM
Pretty much with you on this one Argonor - we're all capable of making judgements as to the 'appopriateness'  of a mini for the group we play in, blanket decisions, (on topics like this) tend to produce farcical results - wonderfully exemplared in the recent story of the sale of one of Modigliani's reclining nudes - US tv censored the image  (despite Modigliani not exactly being a naturalistic painter).
Title: Re: Denizens of Azor preview thread - Painted Priestesses!
Post by: chirine ba kal on November 24, 2015, 01:37:14 AM
Thank you both for your comments - I agree with both of you. I guess that I'm just startled by what I've been seeing in some discussions, where 'political correctness' seems to be more important then historical reality.

And, of course, we're here in the world of the 'Pulps', where these tropes were the norm. :)

I'm just getting old, I think... :)
Title: Re: Denizens of Azor preview thread - Painted Priestesses!
Post by: Rhoderic on November 24, 2015, 08:30:46 AM
If I may make an observation, it was never about political correctness in this case. It was about one person's need for "family friendly" miniatures, which IMO is a completely different issue.

Had it been about political correctness, the discussion would have concerned the possibility of nude or semi-nude female figures being objectifying of or demeaning toward women. That was never on the agenda in this thread. (And I'm not intending to put it on the agenda by bringing it up now, I'm just highlighting the distinction between political correctness and family-friendliness, for the purpose of showing that the former is not on the agenda).

While I agree that Alex would be wise to not spend all that money on producing a second set of figures with covered breasts, I also see what wargame_insomniac's problem was; no adult has a right to subject other people's children to themes of sexuality and nudity. It's not a problem that Alex can solve for him, but it's a problem he's having to deal with all the same, as a member of a wargaming club that includes children.

I apologise for veering this thread even more off-topic. I'll stop now.
Title: Re: Denizens of Azor preview thread - Painted Priestesses!
Post by: FramFramson on November 24, 2015, 07:54:20 PM
If I may make an observation, it was never about political correctness in this case. It was about one person's need for "family friendly" miniatures, which IMO is a completely different issue.

Had it been about political correctness, the discussion would have concerned the possibility of nude or semi-nude female figures being objectifying of or demeaning toward women. That was never on the agenda in this thread. (And I'm not intending to put it on the agenda by bringing it up now, I'm just highlighting the distinction between political correctness and family-friendliness, for the purpose of showing that the former is not on the agenda).

While I agree that Alex would be wise to not spend all that money on producing a second set of figures with covered breasts, I also see what wargame_insomniac's problem was; no adult has a right to subject other people's children to themes of sexuality and nudity. It's not a problem that Alex can solve for him, but it's a problem he's having to deal with all the same, as a member of a wargaming club that includes children.

I apologise for veering this thread even more off-topic. I'll stop now.

No, that's fine and quite on point. An excellent way of putting it.

And now that that's done, we can move right along.
Title: Re: Denizens of Azor preview thread - Painted Priestesses!
Post by: chirine ba kal on November 25, 2015, 05:49:46 AM
No, that's fine and quite on point. An excellent way of putting it.

And now that that's done, we can move right along.

Wholeheartedly agreed, and thank you both! Let's get on with some adventures! :)
Title: Re: Denizens of Azor preview thread - Painted Priestesses!
Post by: Alxbates on November 26, 2015, 02:25:18 AM
Regarding the nudity comments, I've got some thoughts on the issue.

I've put a lot of thought into what direction to go with nudity in my Azor setting.  

Basically it comes down to, "I like it, and it's my setting, so I'm gonna do what I want."

I can come up with all sorts of justifications for it - it *is* historically accurate to the Minoan culture that Azor is loosely based on (and, also to a lesser extent, Mycenaean Greece and ancient Egypt).  It's also appropriate for the climate - Azor is a tropical place, and bronze age tropical peoples didn't tend to wear much in the way of clothing.  The male miniatures that I've released also don't wear much - the guards only wear slightly more than the priestesses, and the Jungle Lord and the sleazy merchant wear even less than they do.  There's also a long tradition of near or partial nudity in Pulp art, whether it's Tarzan or Doc Savage or Dejah Thoris or nearly anything Frazetta ever did, and as I'm a huge fan of that tradition, I'd like to continue to carry it on.

I do feel like a lot of that traditional pulp art is pretty demeaning to the women being pictured - they're almost always helpless, being rescued or in a subservient position.  So, I'm trying to make sure that any half-naked women that show up in Azor are depicted in strong or equally powerful positions.  It's not a perfect solution to the old problematic ways that women are depicted in so much pulp and fantasy art, but it's the way that I plan to go with it.

I like tough, badass women, I like Pulp art, I like Minoan Crete and ancient Greece and ancient Egypt, and I like boobs.  I don't think that those interests are mutually exclusive.  

That about covers my take on the topic... if anyone wants to talk more about it, I'd be happy to, but I think it'd be better off in a different thread.

So here's an (unfinished) illustration for my upcoming setting book, by the fantastic Regis Moulun, depicting some of the Lion Guards of Azor:

(http://i16.photobucket.com/albums/b31/Alxbates/Illustration%20by%20Regis%20finished_zpsqafukbgz.jpg) (http://s16.photobucket.com/user/Alxbates/media/Illustration%20by%20Regis%20finished_zpsqafukbgz.jpg.html)

Tre Manor of Red Box games is currently sculpting the lions and their handlers.
Title: Re: Denizens of Azor preview thread - Painted Priestesses!
Post by: Alxbates on November 26, 2015, 02:28:09 AM
 Hmmm... trying to delete this one, double-post.
Title: Re: Denizens of Azor preview thread - Painted Priestesses!
Post by: FramFramson on November 26, 2015, 03:56:44 AM
Whoa, Tre Manor... nice!
Title: Re: Denizens of Azor preview thread - Painted Priestesses!
Post by: Rhoderic on November 26, 2015, 10:57:30 AM
Alex, I think that's a very good way of putting it. I for one have confidence in your intentions and ability to do the right thing.

Also, that's an excellent piece of artwork.
Title: Re: Denizens of Azor preview thread - Painted Priestesses!
Post by: orc on November 26, 2015, 01:18:15 PM
Amazing art work!!!!!  :-* :-* :-*

I hope your kickstart become soon!!!!! I love your minis!!!!
Title: Re: Denizens of Azor preview thread - Painted Priestesses!
Post by: axabrax on November 26, 2015, 03:22:37 PM
Well said! I concur with the entire sentiment  :)

Regarding the nudity comments, I've got some thoughts on the issue.

I've put a lot of thought into what direction to go with nudity in my Azor setting.  

Basically it comes down to, "I like it, and it's my setting, so I'm gonna do what I want."

I can come up with all sorts of justifications for it - it *is* historically accurate to the Minoan culture that Azor is loosely based on (and, also to a lesser extent, Mycenaean Greece and ancient Egypt).  It's also appropriate for the climate - Azor is a tropical place, and bronze age tropical peoples didn't tend to wear much in the way of clothing.  The male miniatures that I've released also don't wear much - the guards only wear slightly more than the priestesses, and the Jungle Lord and the sleazy merchant wear even less than they do.  There's also a long tradition of near or partial nudity in Pulp art, whether it's Tarzan or Doc Savage or Dejah Thoris or nearly anything Frazetta ever did, and as I'm a huge fan of that tradition, I'd like to continue to carry it on.

I do feel like a lot of that traditional pulp art is pretty demeaning to the women being pictured - they're almost always being rescued or in a subservient position.  So, I'm trying to make sure that any half-naked women that show up in Azor are depicted in strong or equally powerful positions.  It's not a perfect solution to the old problematic ways that women are depicted in so much pulp and fantasy art, but it's the way that I plan to go with it.

I like tough, badass women, I like Pulp art, I like Minoan Crete and ancient Greece and ancient Egypt, and I like boobs.  I don't think that those interests are mutually exclusive.  

That about covers my take on the topic... if anyone wants to talk more about it, I'd be happy to, but I think it'd be better off in a different thread.

So here's an (unfinished) illustration for my upcoming setting book, by the fantastic Regis Moulun, depicting some of the Lion Guards of Azor:

(http://i16.photobucket.com/albums/b31/Alxbates/Illustration%20by%20Regis%20finished_zpsqafukbgz.jpg) (http://s16.photobucket.com/user/Alxbates/media/Illustration%20by%20Regis%20finished_zpsqafukbgz.jpg.html)

Tre Manor of Red Box games is currently sculpting the lions and their handlers.
Title: Re: Denizens of Azor preview thread - Painted Priestesses!
Post by: Samnite308 on November 26, 2015, 10:57:11 PM
Amazing concept artwork - cant wait to see the miniature versions!  :D
Title: Re: Denizens of Azor preview thread - Painted Priestesses!
Post by: d phipps on November 27, 2015, 07:15:08 AM
Amazing concept artwork - cant wait to see the miniature versions!  :D

Indeed!  :-*
Title: Re: Denizens of Azor preview thread - Painted Priestesses!
Post by: fastolfrus on November 27, 2015, 11:25:07 PM
Some awesome pieces.
Will there be a big kickstarter campaign?
Title: Re: Denizens of Azor preview thread - Painted Priestesses!
Post by: Alxbates on December 05, 2015, 03:07:45 PM
Some awesome pieces.
Will there be a big kickstarter campaign?

Well, soon-ish.  I've very nearly started the KS campaign twice this year, but things were never quite right.  As things stand now I hope to do a small KS for the sleepy sentries & the sleazy merchant in February, then a medium-sized KS for some large critters next summer, then a big one after that for a boxed set with all the trimmings.

But I don't want to get ahead of myself, and I want to have as much done ahead of time as possible.  So I'm releasing things piecemeal as I can get them made.  I think I'm walking the fine line between "labour of love" and "small part-time business".
Title: Re: Denizens of Azor preview thread - Painted Priestesses!
Post by: chirine ba kal on December 06, 2015, 02:41:46 AM
Well, soon-ish.  I've very nearly started the KS campaign twice this year, but things were never quite right.  As things stand now I hope to do a small KS for the sleepy sentries & the sleazy merchant in February, then a medium-sized KS for some large critters next summer, then a big one after that for a boxed set with all the trimmings.

But I don't want to get ahead of myself, and I want to have as much done ahead of time as possible.  So I'm releasing things piecemeal as I can get them made.  I think I'm walking the fine line between "labour of love" and "small part-time business".

Very sound plan, I think. I'm really looking forward to any and all of your figures - they are great, and have all gone over well with my players!!!
Title: Re: Denizens of Azor preview thread - Painted Priestesses!
Post by: Alxbates on December 08, 2015, 06:48:18 AM
In other news, the Lead Adventure Forum's own Shortscale Dave has finished his two terrain piece sculpts for me - an ancient idol of the serpent men, and a sphinx!

(http://i16.photobucket.com/albums/b31/Alxbates/Dave%20Cauley%20Doom%20idol_zpsuy1bcnsf.jpg) (http://s16.photobucket.com/user/Alxbates/media/Dave%20Cauley%20Doom%20idol_zpsuy1bcnsf.jpg.html)

(http://i16.photobucket.com/albums/b31/Alxbates/Dave%20Cauley%20Sphinx%20with%20Pterro%20Men_zpsiggdukki.jpg) (http://s16.photobucket.com/user/Alxbates/media/Dave%20Cauley%20Sphinx%20with%20Pterro%20Men_zpsiggdukki.jpg.html)

I should have them both cast in resin some time in January, I think.

The sphinx is in two pieces, the statue is separate from the base:

(http://i16.photobucket.com/albums/b31/Alxbates/Dave%20Cauley%20Sphinx%20with%20Sleazy%20and%20Sleepy%202_zpsgcruhzf9.jpg) (http://s16.photobucket.com/user/Alxbates/media/Dave%20Cauley%20Sphinx%20with%20Sleazy%20and%20Sleepy%202_zpsgcruhzf9.jpg.html)
Title: Re: Denizens of Azor preview thread - Painted Priestesses!
Post by: von Lucky on December 08, 2015, 07:58:20 PM
Lovely sculpts, match the look you've been creating.
Title: Re: Denizens of Azor preview thread - Painted Priestesses!
Post by: d phipps on December 08, 2015, 11:03:07 PM
Excellent!  :-*
Title: Re: Denizens of Azor preview thread - Painted Priestesses!
Post by: Rhoderic on December 08, 2015, 11:47:02 PM
Those are exquisite.
Title: Re: Denizens of Azor preview thread - Painted Priestesses!
Post by: orc on December 09, 2015, 12:34:47 PM
 :-* :-* :-* I need them all!!!
Title: Re: Denizens of Azor preview thread - Painted Priestesses!
Post by: Andym on December 09, 2015, 12:38:40 PM
Cool! 8) I can see those 2 pieces sitting in a hot, humid jungle somewhere.
Title: Re: Denizens of Azor preview thread - Painted Priestesses!
Post by: dartfrog on December 09, 2015, 04:38:35 PM
Are the pterdon type fellows available? I have an urge to put them straight into my pulp jungle.

And if they are, is it still a PM you issue to order?

Cheers.
Title: Re: Denizens of Azor preview thread - Painted Priestesses!
Post by: Alxbates on December 10, 2015, 09:24:43 AM
Are the pterdon type fellows available? I have an urge to put them straight into my pulp jungle.

And if they are, is it still a PM you issue to order?

Cheers.

Yes sir, they're still available - it's one pose with two different head options.  I'm still taking orders via email, so a PM works just fine.

-Alex
Title: Re: Denizens of Azor preview thread - Painted Priestesses!
Post by: Alxbates on February 11, 2016, 04:40:38 PM
Swamp Scorpions are moderately dangerous creatures that lurk in shallow waters around Azor. They're notorious for stealing fish off of lines and nets, and can be troublesome for boatmen. The claws of a fully grown adult are strong enough to snip off a hand or foot if they get a good grip, but they are still occasionally spear-fished for food. Large individuals are as big as a man, so the reward is usually deemed worth the risk. They taste like lobster!

This Eurypterid kit was sculpted by Jason Wiebe - the claws are reversible, and the body comes in three parts, so it can be posed however you like.

(http://i16.photobucket.com/albums/b31/Alxbates/Wiebe%20Swamp%20Scorpion%20Eurypterid%201_zpsrvoskhyo.jpg) (http://s16.photobucket.com/user/Alxbates/media/Wiebe%20Swamp%20Scorpion%20Eurypterid%201_zpsrvoskhyo.jpg.html)

(http://i16.photobucket.com/albums/b31/Alxbates/Wiebe%20Swamp%20Scorpion%20Eurypterid%203_zpswgxlzbf7.jpg) (http://s16.photobucket.com/user/Alxbates/media/Wiebe%20Swamp%20Scorpion%20Eurypterid%203_zpswgxlzbf7.jpg.html)

(http://i16.photobucket.com/albums/b31/Alxbates/Wiebe%20Swamp%20Scorpion%20Eurypterid%202_zpsfavmqmzx.jpg) (http://s16.photobucket.com/user/Alxbates/media/Wiebe%20Swamp%20Scorpion%20Eurypterid%202_zpsfavmqmzx.jpg.html)
Title: Re: Denizens of Azor preview thread - Painted Priestesses!
Post by: Amalric on February 17, 2016, 03:11:28 AM
Those look CREEPY Awesome!
Title: Re: Denizens of Azor preview thread - Painted Priestesses!
Post by: YPU on February 17, 2016, 08:17:18 AM
I'm a fan! Nice to see some historic (cly inspired) style creepy crawlers instead of another giant version of modern day stuff.
Title: Re: Denizens of Azor preview thread - Painted Priestesses!
Post by: von Lucky on February 17, 2016, 12:09:51 PM
Saw them when I wasn't logged in and forgot to comment latter on.

Reminds me of the first time I held a horseshoe crab in my hands at Cape Cod. I understood Cthulhu in that moment.
Title: Re: Denizens of Azor preview thread - Painted Histath, snakeman!
Post by: Alxbates on March 18, 2016, 03:16:39 PM
Andrew Taylor has taken his talented brushes to my Histath model!  It's now officially for sale, as is the Jungle Queen.

(http://i16.photobucket.com/albums/b31/Alxbates/12833211_10154021254670879_1793508589_n_zps2keisk7i.jpg) (http://s16.photobucket.com/user/Alxbates/media/12833211_10154021254670879_1793508589_n_zps2keisk7i.jpg.html)

(http://i16.photobucket.com/albums/b31/Alxbates/12833211_10154021253690879_1953394033_n_zps5rtqdeha.jpg) (http://s16.photobucket.com/user/Alxbates/media/12833211_10154021253690879_1953394033_n_zps5rtqdeha.jpg.html)
Title: Re: Denizens of Azor preview thread - Painted Histath, snakeman!
Post by: Vermis on March 18, 2016, 03:22:02 PM
That's mighty impressive.
Title: Re: Denizens of Azor preview thread - Painted Histath, snakeman!
Post by: von Lucky on March 18, 2016, 08:47:09 PM
Very nice. May I suggest that the webstore (if you've got one) or the current Facebook page URL is in your signiature block? I can't find it looking (the Facebook link didn't work).

Also, what's the latest on the lions and their handlers?
Title: Re: Denizens of Azor preview thread - Painted Histath, snakeman!
Post by: Alxbates on March 19, 2016, 05:02:57 AM
Very nice. May I suggest that the webstore (if you've got one) or the current Facebook page URL is in your signiature block? I can't find it looking (the Facebook link didn't work).

Also, what's the latest on the lions and their handlers?

That is an excellent suggestion, thank you!  I don't have a webstore, all my orders are via email (for now).  I've updated my signature & home page info.  The FB link won't work unless you have a FB page, but I've updated that, too.

The lions and their handlers are still in Tre Manor's hands - they have been delayed by his most recent Kickstarter, but they're still on his workbench, coming "soon".
Title: Re: Denizens of Azor preview thread - Painted Histath, snakeman!
Post by: Hammers on March 19, 2016, 06:19:37 AM
Lovely sculpts. I am not into Lost World stuff but that merchant and the sleepy sentries are the dogs danglies. LPL winners, if I am any judge. I will be thinking of a way to find a use for them. GoT,  maybe? Mereen people?
Title: Re: Denizens of Azor preview thread - Painted Histath, snakeman!
Post by: Alxbates on April 10, 2016, 01:59:57 AM
I like to think that my stuff is appropriate for Swords and Sorcery/Low Fantasy, too.  Conan the Barbarian would feel right at home in Azor (although their blase attitude towards non-human races would surprise him).  Heck, Doc Savage and Indiana Jones stumble across them all the time.  Marvel Comics has the Savage Land, there's Carson of Venus...

Space Opera, Superheroes, Steampunk, Fantasy, modern, Swords and Sorcery - nearly every genre of gaming could conceivably support an undiscovered land (valley, island, cavern, planet, alternate dimension, whatever) full of ancient ruins and dinosaurs.

The human civilization in Azor is based somewhat on Minoan Crete, so most of my human models should work as gaming stand-ins in various ancient Mediterranean civilizations.
Title: Re: Denizens of Azor preview thread - Painted Histath, snakeman!
Post by: Alxbates on June 18, 2016, 03:09:47 PM
I posted these to Facebook, so I thought I'd share them here, too - new sculpts by JohnEdwin 'Tre' Manor!

They're works-in-progress, they're not quite complete yet.  Also, there's a second spearwoman in the works, to match this first one.  I was too excited to keep them to myself anymore!

(http://i16.photobucket.com/albums/b31/Alxbates/Tre%20Manor%20lion%20warrior%205_zpshuuvot4k.jpg) (http://s16.photobucket.com/user/Alxbates/media/Tre%20Manor%20lion%20warrior%205_zpshuuvot4k.jpg.html)

The Lion Women of Azor have been training and raising lions since the city was founded a thousand years ago. After so much time selectively breeding the animals, they're not quite the same as lions from the outside world. They have a temperament more similar to dogs than to wild lions - Azorian Lions see humans as part of their pride, and respond well to verbal commands.

As soon as they are weaned from their mothers, cubs are given to an adolescent girl to raise - usually a member of the nobility, but occasionally a wealthy merchant's daughter or even a favored servant. As the old saying goes, "No home is complete until you have a fountain in your courtyard and a lion for your daughter." A lion is greatly valued as a status symbol, pet, guard, and companion.

(http://i16.photobucket.com/albums/b31/Alxbates/Tre%20Manor%20lion%20warrior%201_zpsrlhdd5w0.jpg) (http://s16.photobucket.com/user/Alxbates/media/Tre%20Manor%20lion%20warrior%201_zpsrlhdd5w0.jpg.html)

(http://i16.photobucket.com/albums/b31/Alxbates/Tre%20Manor%20lion%20warrior%204_zps6dcphqqb.jpg) (http://s16.photobucket.com/user/Alxbates/media/Tre%20Manor%20lion%20warrior%204_zps6dcphqqb.jpg.html)

(http://i16.photobucket.com/albums/b31/Alxbates/Tre%20Manor%20lion%20warrior%203_zpscpkxiimj.jpg) (http://s16.photobucket.com/user/Alxbates/media/Tre%20Manor%20lion%20warrior%203_zpscpkxiimj.jpg.html)

(http://i16.photobucket.com/albums/b31/Alxbates/Tre%20Manor%20lion%20warrior%207_zpsf2ugzsq4.jpg) (http://s16.photobucket.com/user/Alxbates/media/Tre%20Manor%20lion%20warrior%207_zpsf2ugzsq4.jpg.html)

(http://i16.photobucket.com/albums/b31/Alxbates/Tre%20Manor%20lion%20warrior%208_zps8jmhzpcw.jpg) (http://s16.photobucket.com/user/Alxbates/media/Tre%20Manor%20lion%20warrior%208_zps8jmhzpcw.jpg.html)
Title: Re: Denizens of Azor preview thread - Lion Women!
Post by: FramFramson on June 18, 2016, 05:24:12 PM
The queen looks great, but I gotta say, those lions look a bit... on the thin side. Hunting not so good in Azor?
Title: Re: Denizens of Azor preview thread - Lion Women!
Post by: d phipps on June 18, 2016, 07:57:21 PM
Excellent!
Title: Re: Denizens of Azor preview thread - Lion Women!
Post by: beefcake on June 18, 2016, 08:20:32 PM
I really like them. Looks like I need to get some Azor stuff now.
Title: Re: Denizens of Azor preview thread - Lion Women!
Post by: von Lucky on June 18, 2016, 11:42:27 PM
I like the lions - beautiful muscle massing to create movement. They may need a little more stomach to what we're used to - but based on the background I think the look suits them. Think medieval hunting dogs.
Title: Re: Denizens of Azor preview thread - Lion Women!
Post by: FramFramson on June 18, 2016, 11:55:35 PM
The stomachs seem fine, actually. And the musculature is right and nice. It's the proportions that seem off, mainly the forelegs look thin. A lion is fairly stocky, at least up front.

However, maybe this is all fully intentional, and the lions of Azor are a sleeker breed with a more dog-like look given their role as pets. In which case my criticism isn't really valid!
Title: Re: Denizens of Azor preview thread - Lion Women!
Post by: LeadAsbestos on June 19, 2016, 02:00:04 AM
Yep, I don't buy them as regular lions, but as a different related species, they are very cool designs.
Title: Re: Denizens of Azor preview thread - Lion Women!
Post by: Alxbates on June 19, 2016, 05:05:21 AM
The stomachs seem fine, actually. And the musculature is right and nice. It's the proportions that seem off, mainly the forelegs look thin. A lion is fairly stocky, at least up front.

However, maybe this is all fully intentional, and the lions of Azor are a sleeker breed with a more dog-like look given their role as pets. In which case my criticism isn't really valid!

It's somewhat intentional and somewhat a happy accident.

I don't mind going a bit into the process here, if you don't mind reading a tale!

When Tre and I first started talking about the commission, we discussed the designs quite a bit.  I had initially wanted the lions to be beefy - robust and muscular.  I even sent him some Frank Frazetta artwork, showing some of the thickly muscled lions that Frazetta liked to draw.  But Tre doesn't take outside commissions very often, and he expressed a strong interest in sculpting them in his personal style, rather than to try to ape someone else's.

In the same way that Medieval noblemen took pride in horse & dog breeding ("My horses are the fastest!"  "My hunting dogs have the best noses!"), it was my thought that the various noble houses of Azor took great pride in their lions.  I had intended to add this to the fluff both because I thought it was a neat and somewhat believable cultural addition, and also to allow for differences in manufacturers.  When I finally get my game book published, I don't for a moment imagine that people will slavishly only use Forge of Ice miniatures, and there are some really nice lions already out there on the market!  Crocodile Games, Clan War, even Games Workshop (with their lion chariot) have some great lions, and I wanted there to be a fluff-based excuse for wildly different-looking lions on the table.

I intend to paint several different versions of the lions, some striped, some spotted, some with black manes, etc.  Maybe even do a conversion with sabertooth fangs!  Azor has been isolated for a thousand years, but the occasional caravan or ship or dimensional portal has allowed genes from all sorts of big cat species to get thrown into the mix.

Anyways, when Tre started to send me in-progress pics of the sculpts (and I should mention that the photos above are also in-progress pics, they're not *quite* finished), I saw how lithe and sinewy these guys were, and I loved them.  They weren't the overly-muscled lions from Frazetta's art, but they were definitely Tre Manor lions, and I think the fact that they don't look exactly like modern lions is just fine.

After thousands of years we've managed to turn wolves into dachshunds, bulldogs, greyhounds and saluki. I figure that if a group of humans really put their minds to it, over the course of a millennium, we could do something similar with big cats, too!
Title: Re: Denizens of Azor preview thread - Lion Women!
Post by: FramFramson on June 19, 2016, 06:27:36 AM
Okay, that's really neat and definitely makes sense for you setting. So, cool!
Title: Re: Denizens of Azor preview thread - Lion Women!
Post by: MalcyBogaten on June 19, 2016, 07:59:53 PM
Wow!  :o

Those Lions look almost of Human Intelligence! :-* :-*

Love all the Figs!
Title: Re: Denizens of Azor preview thread - Lion Women!
Post by: Dr Mathias on July 15, 2016, 01:11:50 AM
Amazing things in this thread. I'm not sure how it slipped by me until now...
Title: Re: Denizens of Azor preview thread - Lion Women!
Post by: Alxbates on August 27, 2016, 11:02:12 AM
Hiya folks!

I've recently returned from a much needed vacation to GenCon.  The convention was a lot of fun - it was good to go to an event as a fan instead of as a vendor (the first time in a LONG time I've done that!).  I haven't made a lot of progress with Forge of Ice lately, but Rochie Rochefort (the Rogue Painter) is currently painting a set of my armored crocodiles for me. They're going to be my 'official catalog' photos, so I'm happy to share them here - two down, two to go!

(http://i16.photobucket.com/albums/b31/Alxbates/14080035_10202033528917624_4311365886892778327_n_zpstqdeiyi8.jpg) (http://s16.photobucket.com/user/Alxbates/media/14080035_10202033528917624_4311365886892778327_n_zpstqdeiyi8.jpg.html)

I particularly like unfortunate Okros that he put on the base of this one:

(http://i16.photobucket.com/albums/b31/Alxbates/14088467_10202033529357635_5175481818817181855_n_zpska91vse4.jpg) (http://s16.photobucket.com/user/Alxbates/media/14088467_10202033529357635_5175481818817181855_n_zpska91vse4.jpg.html)

(http://i16.photobucket.com/albums/b31/Alxbates/14088648_10202033529597641_6325305188461013591_n_zpsrbwlgkvv.jpg) (http://s16.photobucket.com/user/Alxbates/media/14088648_10202033529597641_6325305188461013591_n_zpsrbwlgkvv.jpg.html)
Title: Re: Denizens of Azor preview thread - Painted Armored Crocodiles!
Post by: von Lucky on August 27, 2016, 02:41:16 PM
I definitely plan on supplementing my Monolith Conan package with some of your stuff.
Title: Re: Denizens of Azor preview thread - Painted Armored Crocodiles!
Post by: d phipps on August 28, 2016, 08:13:58 PM
Fantastic! We could really use some of those for the new Pulp Alley campaign we're writing/playtesting.  :-*

(http://i1337.photobucket.com/albums/o665/pulpalley/Art%20of%20Pulp%20Alley/Lost%20World%20Cover%20flat2_zpsgezsgbsp.jpg)
Title: Re: Denizens of Azor preview thread - Lion Women!
Post by: BugPope on August 29, 2016, 02:46:50 PM
Looking great. I asked you some questions about your models back in July in the Commercial thread for Forge of Ice, but since I haven't gotten a reply there, I might as well try asking here:
1. What does the mummies look like? I tried looking through your Facebook page, without any success.
2. When are the Armadillosuchus and sea scorpions released? I need more prehistoric animals in my life.


Oh, and a side note: one of the Forge of Ice models got featured in an excellent interview with veteran sculptor John Dennett. The interview focuses on an old Grenadier model he made in the 1980's, that's recently received mainstream attention after it showed up in the hit Netflix series Stranger Things (which is absolutely amazing, by the way) as an important plot device.
The Histah model is shown in the interview as an example of John's modern work. It's a very interesting read.
http://roebeast.blogspot.se/2016/07/stranger-things-sculptor-tells-all.html
Title: Re: Denizens of Azor preview thread - Painted Armored Crocodiles!
Post by: Reed on August 29, 2016, 08:27:40 PM
Those armored crocodiles look really really sweet.
Title: Re: Denizens of Azor preview thread - Lion Women!
Post by: Alxbates on September 01, 2016, 10:56:08 AM
Looking great. I asked you some questions about your models back in July in the Commercial thread for Forge of Ice, but since I haven't gotten a reply there, I might as well try asking here:
1. What do the mummies look like? I tried looking through your Facebook page, without any success.
2. When are the Armadillosuchus and sea scorpions released? I need more prehistoric animals in my life.

Hiya Bugpope!

Sorry that I didn't answer in the commercial post - I must have missed the 'new replies' notification!

To answer your questions:

1 - The mummies are a little smaller than my other figures - they're true 25mm scale.  I haven't advertised them much because they were an early idea I had for my lost world stuff, and I've moved away from it since then.  They still work great as pulp villains, or in Cthulhu or horror games.  Here are some pictures of a set that Brian Roe (of Roebeast's Magical House of Sunshine!) painted up awhile back:

(http://i16.photobucket.com/albums/b31/Alxbates/Mummy%201_zpsoucelim7.jpg) (http://s16.photobucket.com/user/Alxbates/media/Mummy%201_zpsoucelim7.jpg.html)(http://i16.photobucket.com/albums/b31/Alxbates/mummy2_zps4kdmdvxl.jpg) (http://s16.photobucket.com/user/Alxbates/media/mummy2_zps4kdmdvxl.jpg.html)
(http://i16.photobucket.com/albums/b31/Alxbates/mummy3_zpsw1ir7t03.jpg) (http://s16.photobucket.com/user/Alxbates/media/mummy3_zpsw1ir7t03.jpg.html)
(http://i16.photobucket.com/albums/b31/Alxbates/mummy4_zpshx9aysut.jpg) (http://s16.photobucket.com/user/Alxbates/media/mummy4_zpshx9aysut.jpg.html)(http://i16.photobucket.com/albums/b31/Alxbates/mummy5_zpsuaxuyy5p.jpg) (http://s16.photobucket.com/user/Alxbates/media/mummy5_zpsuaxuyy5p.jpg.html)

I've included two pictures of the crawler because his low profile makes him difficult to photograph.

2 - The sea scorpion will be released with my next batch of releases (later this year), and the Armored Crocodiles are already available - they're available as a set of 4 for $30 USD.

Quote
Oh, and a side note: one of the Forge of Ice models got featured in an excellent interview with veteran sculptor John Dennett. The interview focuses on an old Grenadier model he made in the 1980's, that's recently received mainstream attention after it showed up in the hit Netflix series Stranger Things (which is absolutely amazing, by the way) as an important plot device.

The Histath model is shown in the interview as an example of John's modern work. It's a very interesting read.
http://roebeast.blogspot.se/2016/07/stranger-things-sculptor-tells-all.html

Yep!  I participated in that article - some of those photographs were taken by me.  

If you like John's sculpting and the old Demogorgon model, keep an eye out - John and I will have something cool to show off in the very near future.  ;)
Title: Re: Denizens of Azor preview thread - Painted Armored Crocodiles!
Post by: Alxbates on September 29, 2016, 05:25:22 AM
The lion women are finished!

(http://i16.photobucket.com/albums/b31/Alxbates/Finished%20group%20shot_zpsc1eqojhx.jpg) (http://s16.photobucket.com/user/Alxbates/media/Finished%20group%20shot_zpsc1eqojhx.jpg.html)

I'll be sending them off to the caster in a couple of weeks, along with the Man-Ape, the Swamp Scorpion (Eurypterid), the Serpent Stone terrain piece, and a couple of small treasure items.

They should all be for sale by the end of October, barring flood, fire, or catastrophe.

(http://i16.photobucket.com/albums/b31/Alxbates/Finished%20warrior%201_zpsoxcnrdre.jpg) (http://s16.photobucket.com/user/Alxbates/media/Finished%20warrior%201_zpsoxcnrdre.jpg.html)
(http://i16.photobucket.com/albums/b31/Alxbates/Finished%20warrior%202_zps9jjn97hf.jpg) (http://s16.photobucket.com/user/Alxbates/media/Finished%20warrior%202_zps9jjn97hf.jpg.html)

The lightbox is use has a curved base, so the lion's foot looks like it's upraised - it's not, it sits flat if it's on a flat surface.

(http://i16.photobucket.com/albums/b31/Alxbates/Finished%20lion%202%20side_zpsponactvu.jpg) (http://s16.photobucket.com/user/Alxbates/media/Finished%20lion%202%20side_zpsponactvu.jpg.html)(http://i16.photobucket.com/albums/b31/Alxbates/Finished%20lion%202_zpsc3ywgttp.jpg) (http://s16.photobucket.com/user/Alxbates/media/Finished%20lion%202_zpsc3ywgttp.jpg.html)

(http://i16.photobucket.com/albums/b31/Alxbates/Finisshed%20lion%201_zpssl2vfdvs.jpg)(http://i16.photobucket.com/albums/b31/Alxbates/Finished%20lion%201%20side_zps7omcbt6u.jpg) (http://s16.photobucket.com/user/Alxbates/media/Finisshed%20lion%201_zpssl2vfdvs.jpg.html)
Title: Re: Denizens of Azor preview thread - Painted Armored Crocodiles!
Post by: Commander Roj on September 29, 2016, 09:46:31 AM
Fantastic! We could really use some of those for the new Pulp Alley campaign we're writing/playtesting.  :-*

(http://i1337.photobucket.com/albums/o665/pulpalley/Art%20of%20Pulp%20Alley/Lost%20World%20Cover%20flat2_zpsgezsgbsp.jpg)

Is this the first mention of the Lemuria expansion? How exciting, Please tell me more!  And those lion ladies look great too.
Title: Re: Denizens of Azor preview thread - Finished Lion Women & their Lions!
Post by: Mason on September 29, 2016, 11:00:57 AM
Those Lions and Lasses look lovely!
 :-* :-*

Title: Re: Denizens of Azor preview thread - Finished Lion Women & their Lions!
Post by: YPU on September 29, 2016, 11:44:02 AM
I think we said it before, but those lions would make great xenos beasts as well.
Title: Re: Denizens of Azor preview thread - Painted Armored Crocodiles!
Post by: wulfgar22 on September 29, 2016, 06:23:47 PM
Fantastic! We could really use some of those for the new Pulp Alley campaign we're writing/playtesting.  :-*

(http://i1337.photobucket.com/albums/o665/pulpalley/Art%20of%20Pulp%20Alley/Lost%20World%20Cover%20flat2_zpsgezsgbsp.jpg)

Oh wow! I'd missed this. Looks brilliant!
Title: Re: Denizens of Azor preview thread - Painted Armored Crocodiles!
Post by: Alxbates on September 30, 2016, 04:39:10 AM
Fantastic! We could really use some of those for the new Pulp Alley campaign we're writing/playtesting.  :-*

(http://i1337.photobucket.com/albums/o665/pulpalley/Art%20of%20Pulp%20Alley/Lost%20World%20Cover%20flat2_zpsgezsgbsp.jpg)

I'm glad that folks seem excited about this - it's reminded me that I owe the Pulp Alley folks a care package!

Some of my Forge of Ice critters might end up in a Pulp Alley book someday!

-Alex
Title: Re: Denizens of Azor preview thread - Finished Lion Women & their Lions!
Post by: dartfrog on October 01, 2016, 11:42:47 AM
Loving the look of that cover  :D
Title: Re: Denizens of Azor preview thread - Painted Armored Crocodiles!
Post by: d phipps on October 02, 2016, 04:21:02 PM
The lion women are finished!

(http://i16.photobucket.com/albums/b31/Alxbates/Finished%20group%20shot_zpsc1eqojhx.jpg) (http://s16.photobucket.com/user/Alxbates/media/Finished%20group%20shot_zpsc1eqojhx.jpg.html)

Fantastic additions to Azor!! :-* :-*
Title: Re: Denizens of Azor preview thread - Finished Lion Women & their Lions!
Post by: Alxbates on October 08, 2016, 05:00:54 PM
This isn't the best photo in the world, but I was 'inspecting' the greens (you can read 'inspecting' as 'playing with') and decided that I needed to take a picture of them all together.

These are NOT a set, they just happen to be the sculpts that I was able to get concept art & sculpts finished at this time - I have a few more figures in the pipeline, and concept art already finished for an occupant for the throne.

(http://i16.photobucket.com/albums/b31/Alxbates/October%202016%20Greens_zpsqmovpktc.jpg) (http://s16.photobucket.com/user/Alxbates/media/October%202016%20Greens_zpsqmovpktc.jpg.html)

Also, I'll mention that perspective makes the things up front look a little oversized, but here's everything Forge of Ice is sending off to the caster next week:

1 'Swamp Scorpion' - Eurypterid, poseable, sculpted by Jason Wiebe
1 Man-Ape - two arm options and two head options, sculpted by Matt Gubser
1 Serpent Stele - terrain piece, sculpted by Dave Cauley
1 small cycad - tiny terrain element, sculpted by me
2 Lion Women - warriors, sculpted by Tre Manor
2 Azorian Lions - pets/partners/guardians of the Lion Women, sculpted by Tre Manor
1 Throne, sculpted by Dave Cauley (gotta get the throne cast in metal first, then the occupants of the throne will be coming... like, in six months or next year or something...)
1 tiny Pterosaur idol - treasure piece sculpted by Dave Cauley.
1 even tinier ornate bowl - treasure piece sculpted by Dave Cauley.

I hope to have them all for sale by Halloween!
Title: Re: Denizens of Azor preview thread - Finished Lion Women & their Lions!
Post by: Comsquare on October 08, 2016, 05:34:57 PM
Wow, great sculpts  :o

Definitively in for those lions/women  :-*
Title: Re: Denizens of Azor preview thread - Finished Lion Women & their Lions!
Post by: Alxbates on October 13, 2016, 04:24:51 AM
Something else I'll mention - along with the lion women, man-ape and other stuff, I'll also be sending the Sleazy Merchant and his Sleepy Sentries off to the caster (as well as the alert sentries!).

I'll be releasing them via Kickstarter very, very soon.  Like, this weekend (barring catastrophe).

(http://i16.photobucket.com/albums/b31/Alxbates/Forge%20of%20Ice%20KS%20Coming-soon-to-kickstarter1_zpsjepndhga.jpg) (http://s16.photobucket.com/user/Alxbates/media/Forge%20of%20Ice%20KS%20Coming-soon-to-kickstarter1_zpsjepndhga.jpg.html)

I have some large monsters/dinosaurs planned, and I know that I'll have to release them via KS.  But, I don't want my first Kickstarter to be a big one for big creatures - I think it's better to have a smaller campaign under my belt first.

I figure this one is pretty low-risk, what with the figures already sculpted & ready to go.

I'll post an announcement when the campaign is live!
Title: Re: Denizens of Azor preview thread - Finished Lion Women & their Lions!
Post by: Stu on October 13, 2016, 05:51:25 AM
I believe I am going to throw money at you.
Title: Re: Denizens of Azor preview thread - Finished Lion Women & their Lions!
Post by: beefcake on October 13, 2016, 07:44:49 AM
Damn you! October is my expensive bills month. Looks like no lunch at work for me this month. Perhaps my beer money too...
Title: Re: Denizens of Azor preview thread - Finished Lion Women & their Lions!
Post by: Alxbates on October 13, 2016, 07:56:32 AM
Damn you! October is my expensive bills month. Looks like no lunch at work for me this month. Perhaps my beer money too...

The campaign will have both cheap and expensive options, as well as all the options in between.

Sadly, since I live in Alaska, international shipping will be a killer for non-US customers, but at least that's not exactly new or surprising.  It is a bummer, though.
Title: Re: Denizens of Azor preview thread - Sleazy Merchant & Sleepy Sentries!
Post by: beefcake on October 13, 2016, 08:08:54 AM
Probably a bit of a killer for continental US customers also?
Title: Re: Denizens of Azor preview thread - Sleazy Merchant & Sleepy Sentries!
Post by: Alxbates on October 13, 2016, 08:12:17 AM
Probably a bit of a killer for continental US customers also?

Nope, not at all.

Flat rate packaging is the same for anywhere in the USA, even Alaska (or Hawaii).

It's a killer on large freight (fruit and veggies are expensive up here), but small flat-rate packages are exactly the same.

Only downside is that it can take an extra couple of days to get there.
Title: Re: Denizens of Azor preview thread - Sleazy Merchant & Sleepy Sentries!
Post by: oabee on October 13, 2016, 11:54:42 AM
Nope, not at all.

Flat rate packaging is the same for anywhere in the USA, even Alaska (or Hawaii).

It's a killer on large freight (fruit and veggies are expensive up here), but small flat-rate packages are exactly the same.

Only downside is that it can take an extra couple of days to get there.

The service is just fine to the Lower 48 from Alaska....I just ordered some minis from Alex and they arrived at my homestead in the Great Black Swamp of Ohio in a most timely manner. No worries. 

And fine figures they are!   :-*
Title: Re: Denizens of Azor preview thread - Sleazy Merchant & Sleepy Sentries!
Post by: beefcake on October 14, 2016, 04:39:42 AM
Well I may have to do some serious saving for lots of stuff then to make up for packaging. Will all your range be available? Want one of those priestesses too.
Title: Re: Denizens of Azor preview thread - Sleazy Merchant & Sleepy Sentries!
Post by: Alxbates on October 14, 2016, 06:21:20 AM
Well I may have to do some serious saving for lots of stuff then to make up for packaging. Will all your range be available? Want one of those priestesses too.

Yeah, I'll be making (almost) everything else available as a purchasable add-on.
Title: Re: Denizens of Azor preview thread - Sleazy Merchant & Sleepy Sentries!
Post by: Alxbates on October 15, 2016, 11:04:47 PM
And the Kickstarter is now live!

Tell your friends!

https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/966071466/sleepy-sentries-and-sleazy-merchant-by-forge-of-ic
Title: Re: Denizens of Azor preview thread - KICKSTARTER now live!
Post by: Hobby Services on October 16, 2016, 01:19:56 AM
Dammit, and I just tapped out my PayPal for another order.  Better sell some more stuff quick.  To the Bazaar!
Title: Re: Denizens of Azor preview thread - KICKSTARTER now live!
Post by: Alxbates on October 17, 2016, 06:54:59 AM
Holy smokes - barely 24 hours into the campaign, and the Kickstarter is fully funded!!

I had of course hoped and expected that the campaign would succeed, but fully funded in the first 24 hours? That has exceeded my expectations!

I do have some stretch goals and additional add-ons prepared - I'll have an announcement on those shortly, but I want to be very clear -

I will be keeping the stretch goals to a minimum on this campaign. I am committed to delivering all of these minis before Christmas, and I don't want anything less than a catastrophe to get in the way of that.

(I can't stop an earthquake or meteor strike from causing a delay, but I can keep my stretch goals realistic and manageable).

https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/966071466/sleepy-sentries-and-sleazy-merchant-by-forge-of-ic/posts/1710332
Title: Re: Denizens of Azor preview thread - KICKSTARTER fully funded!
Post by: Alxbates on October 21, 2016, 01:11:11 PM
The campaign has been fully funded!  More than fully funded - 169%!!

The first stretch goal has been unlocked, too - a shield!  Patrick Kieth will be sculpting it - he did a fantastic job with the Snake Priestesses, he's gonna knock this out of the park!  Shield design by Des Hanley - artwork by me!

(http://i16.photobucket.com/albums/b31/Alxbates/Shield%20design_zps5eaio0pp.jpg) (http://s16.photobucket.com/user/Alxbates/media/Shield%20design_zps5eaio0pp.jpg.html)

I've also added a couple of things from my catalog as purchasable add-ons - the peafowl and the Queen of the Jungle.

(http://i16.photobucket.com/albums/b31/Alxbates/Sleepy%20Sentries%20failing_zps3t2chr7u.jpg) (http://s16.photobucket.com/user/Alxbates/media/Sleepy%20Sentries%20failing_zps3t2chr7u.jpg.html)

(http://i16.photobucket.com/albums/b31/Alxbates/Peafowl%20and%20Merchant_zpsuvmi3dk1.jpg) (http://s16.photobucket.com/user/Alxbates/media/Peafowl%20and%20Merchant_zpsuvmi3dk1.jpg.html)

Peacocks are just the sort of accoutrements that a sleazy merchant would keep in his courtyard - or his harem!

And the bird with the tail on display makes a cool treasure item/objective marker if you put it on an eleveated base and paint it gold!

Thanks to everyone who has pledged to the campaign, to everyone who has shared, liked, commented and supported.  It's meant a lot!

There are still two weeks left!  I can't wait to see how far this campaign goes!
Title: Re: Denizens of Azor preview thread - KICKSTARTER fully funded!
Post by: soldado on October 21, 2016, 07:34:37 PM
Tempting, very tempting.
Title: Re: Denizens of Azor preview thread - KICKSTARTER fully funded!
Post by: Hobby Services on October 22, 2016, 04:38:33 PM
Dumb question, but if we pledge and get some of the purchasable add-on stuff that's already in production, can you ship them right away or would they be held up till the projected December fulfillment date?  There's some stuff I'd add if we're getting it right away and that would help the KS pull in more money, but at the same time I can see it maybe causing postage issues since you'd have to ship an extra box that way.
Title: Re: Denizens of Azor preview thread - KICKSTARTER fully funded!
Post by: Alxbates on October 22, 2016, 06:03:53 PM
Dumb question, but if we pledge and get some of the purchasable add-on stuff that's already in production, can you ship them right away or would they be held up till the projected December fulfillment date?  There's some stuff I'd add if we're getting it right away and that would help the KS pull in more money, but at the same time I can see it maybe causing postage issues since you'd have to ship an extra box that way.

If you want something that's already in my catalog shipped to you right away, send me a PM here or on FB, I'll have to treat it like a regular order. 

As you said, it could screw up the shipping if I have to pay to ship two boxes but you only get charged for one.

Also, with the Kickstarter, you don't get billed until the campaign is done, and it's my understanding that I don't get the money for about two weeks after that.

I don't ship stuff until I've got the money as a general rule.  :)

Thanks for asking, though!

-Alex
Title: Re: Denizens of Azor preview thread - KICKSTARTER fully funded!
Post by: Hobby Services on October 22, 2016, 06:08:39 PM
Also, with the Kickstarter, you don't get billed until the campaign is done, and it's my understanding that I don't get the money for about two weeks after that.

Oh right, forgot about that.  Fair point.

Quote
I don't ship stuff until I've got the money as a general rule.  :)

I should hope not.  Fine way to go out of business.  :)
Title: Re: Denizens of Azor preview thread - KICKSTARTER fully funded!
Post by: Alxbates on October 22, 2016, 06:29:40 PM
Oh right, forgot about that.  Fair point.

I should hope not.  Fine way to go out of business.  :)

 :D
Title: Re: Denizens of Azor preview thread - KICKSTARTER fully funded!
Post by: Alxbates on October 23, 2016, 02:43:21 PM
I was asked a question about the scale of my sabertooth tiger and owlbear skin rugs - so, here are some scale pics!

(http://i16.photobucket.com/albums/b31/Alxbates/Sabertooth%20tigerskin%20rug%20with%20Sentry_zps0jeuhpeg.jpg) (http://s16.photobucket.com/user/Alxbates/media/Sabertooth%20tigerskin%20rug%20with%20Sentry_zps0jeuhpeg.jpg.html)

(http://i16.photobucket.com/albums/b31/Alxbates/Rugs%20with%20scale%20reference_zpsr6ervwnf.jpg) (http://s16.photobucket.com/user/Alxbates/media/Rugs%20with%20scale%20reference_zpsr6ervwnf.jpg.html)

The Sabertooth rug is 4.5 cm long (1 7/8 inches) from the tip of the nose to the tip of the tail, and the Owlbearskin rug is 5 3/4 cm long (2 1/4 inches) from tip of the beak to the tail.
Title: Re: Denizens of Azor preview thread - KICKSTARTER fully funded!
Post by: Alxbates on October 23, 2016, 02:59:02 PM
It will never not be fun to set up little vignettes.

(http://i16.photobucket.com/albums/b31/Alxbates/Set%20up%20in%20terrain_zpsaatuqq0b.jpg) (http://s16.photobucket.com/user/Alxbates/media/Set%20up%20in%20terrain_zpsaatuqq0b.jpg.html)

About to be eaten by Skull Pigs!

(http://i16.photobucket.com/albums/b31/Alxbates/Eaten%20by%20Entelodonts_zpsr8rrrquc.jpg) (http://s16.photobucket.com/user/Alxbates/media/Eaten%20by%20Entelodonts_zpsr8rrrquc.jpg.html)


Title: Re: Denizens of Azor preview thread - KICKSTARTER fully funded!
Post by: Hobby Services on October 23, 2016, 03:11:30 PM
Thanks for the images, helpful.
Title: Re: Denizens of Azor preview thread - KICKSTARTER fully funded!
Post by: d phipps on October 24, 2016, 04:19:57 PM
Fantastic! The world of Azor is coming to life.  ;)
Title: Re: Denizens of Azor preview thread - KICKSTARTER fully funded!
Post by: Alxbates on October 25, 2016, 02:41:34 PM
I've added the lion women set as an add-on at a small discount (they'll be $38 regularly, they're only $34 if you buy them through the KS).
Title: Re: Denizens of Azor preview thread - KICKSTARTER fully funded!
Post by: Alxbates on October 27, 2016, 06:02:16 PM
Now that the Kickstarter iis over 200% funded, I've got a free reward for everyone who pledged at the $21 level and above - a little lizard pet for the merchant!

(http://i16.photobucket.com/albums/b31/Alxbates/Fat%20Lizard%20pet%20sculpt%20in%20progress_zpstsxsubn5.jpg) (http://s16.photobucket.com/user/Alxbates/media/Fat%20Lizard%20pet%20sculpt%20in%20progress_zpstsxsubn5.jpg.html)

Sculpted by Dave Cauley (the photo is of the sculpt in progress, it's not quite finished), this little fellow is overfed & lazy, but he's spiteful, too - don't try to pet him or he might take your finger off!

He's 20mm tall to the top of his head.
Title: Re: Denizens of Azor preview thread - KICKSTARTER fully funded!
Post by: beefcake on October 27, 2016, 07:53:54 PM
Looks like Jabba's little friend, Salacious B. Crumb
Title: Re: Denizens of Azor preview thread - KICKSTARTER fully funded!
Post by: Alxbates on October 28, 2016, 06:29:17 AM
Looks like Jabba's little friend, Salacious B. Crumb

Hmmm... maybe that was a bit of unintentional inspiration!

I was thinking more like Blofeld's cat, or Drax's dogs, but, sure, Salacious Crumb works!

Here's the concept art:

(http://i16.photobucket.com/albums/b31/Alxbates/Fat%20Lizard%20pet_zpsw3v6sgeq.jpg) (http://s16.photobucket.com/user/Alxbates/media/Fat%20Lizard%20pet_zpsw3v6sgeq.jpg.html)
Title: Re: Denizens of Azor preview thread - KICKSTARTER fully funded!
Post by: d phipps on October 28, 2016, 04:12:28 PM
Great news, Alex! Well done!  ;)
Title: Re: Denizens of Azor preview thread - KICKSTARTER fully funded!
Post by: Alxbates on November 01, 2016, 10:26:21 PM
Brian Roe put together this graphic of all the purchasable add-ons in one place!

(http://i.imgur.com/fAWRiLE.jpg)
Title: Re: Denizens of Azor preview thread - KICKSTARTER fully funded!
Post by: Alxbates on November 04, 2016, 02:53:38 AM
And we're on the home stretch - the last 48 hours of the Kickstarter are here!

The final stretch goal freebie has been revealed, too - a leaping boar treasure piece, being sculpted by Dave Cauley.

(http://i.imgur.com/jPferp6.jpg)

Here's a very early peek at the rough outline of the sculpt - it's about 15mm.

(http://i.imgur.com/gA2sWlL.jpg)

The Skull Pigs of Azor (known as Entelodonts to modern paleontologists) are belligerent and dangerous animals, but they are popular in local art as symbols of strength and power.  This statue is one such representation, and should make for a nice terrain accent, treasure item, or objective counter on the table

This statue will be included FREE with every pledge at the $21 level ("The Merchant and the Alert Sentries") on up.

If you want additional Leaping Boar statues, they are available as an add-on for $2 each.

This means that, at the $45 "Full Set" pledge level, you'll get one each of the Merchant, the two Alert Sentries, the four Sleepy Sentries, two shields, the merchant's pet lizard, and this boar statue.

(http://i.imgur.com/PhljwZj.png)

I have used my wizardly skills with MS Paint to put everything together - the add-on items are not *quite* exactly to scale, but this should be close enough to get the general idea across.

I also want to say thank you to everyone who posted about the campaign, who pledged, and who shared and liked it on social media.  This thing has exceeded my expectations, and I know that it wouldn't have been nearly as successful as it is without all the support and help I've gotten from the gaming community.
Title: Re: Denizens of Azor preview thread - KICKSTARTER fully funded!
Post by: Argonor on November 04, 2016, 04:11:22 AM
So many minis, so little time  ;D
Title: Re: Denizens of Azor preview thread - KICKSTARTER fully funded!
Post by: Alxbates on November 05, 2016, 12:20:55 PM
Holy crap.

9 hours left in the Kickstarter, and I just broke $8000.

That's amazing.
Title: Re: Denizens of Azor preview thread - the Cyclops
Post by: Alxbates on November 18, 2016, 04:24:09 PM
Things are progressing well with the Kickstarter - everything is on track to be delivered on time.

And, while that is going on, I've got a few other things in the pipeline.

Like, this Cyclops sculpt by David Soderquist!

(http://i.imgur.com/YizT1fz.jpg)

(http://i.imgur.com/2Qsyuzy.jpg)

These are not the mythical creatures of old - in Azor, the Cyclopes are tragic individuals, almost always doomed to short and miserable lives.  Whether it's some quirk of genetics specific to the population of Azor, the legacy of meddling from an ancient non-human race, or the whim of some cruel and capricious god, the poor cyclopes always have a similar profile.  Once or twice a generation, a baby is born with an extreme & specific set of deformities - their eye sockets never differentiated, nearly blind, their limbs long and twisted.  Despite that, they are usually quite strong and often reach seven feet in height. Their minds remain childlike and impulsive their whole lives, until they get too tall and their hearts give out in their 25th year (at the latest! They often die in their teens).

The best case scenario a Cyclops can hope for is to be given (or sold) to a temple or nobleman's menagerie immediately after birth.  They'll be fed and clothed & treated as unfortunate but semi-sacred beings - they are said to have been touched by the sun, changed by it in ways beyond their control.  

It's much more likely that they will be destroyed at birth, or left exposed out in the jungle.  The mother (and occasionally the father!) may be killed, too, thought to be cursed.

Even that is a relatively kind fate compared to the cyclopes that end up in the arena.  Tormented, chained, made to fight, they are treated as monsters and featured in the grand summer spectacle.

Adventurers who end up in Azor may encounter these poor beings - perhaps the ape-men found one that had been exposed in the jungle, and are raising it as a member of the tribe.  Perhaps the heroes want to rescue one that's been consigned to the arena.  Maybe a merchant is keeping one as a curiosity and a guardian... a screaming, weeping, inarticulate seven-foot tall person makes for a memorable encounter no matter the circumstance!
Title: Re: Denizens of Azor preview thread - the Cyclops
Post by: von Lucky on November 18, 2016, 07:48:26 PM
Lovely composition and back story. I particularly like the feet turned in on each other and the rib cage.
Title: Re: Denizens of Azor preview thread - the Cyclops
Post by: d phipps on November 19, 2016, 01:33:37 AM
Excellent work and a good backstory.  ;)
Title: Re: Denizens of Azor preview thread - the Cyclops
Post by: manic _miner on November 21, 2016, 08:22:35 AM
 Very nice work from David.A nice addition to your range Alex.You are starting to flesh the World out a bit now.
Title: Re: Denizens of Azor preview thread - the Cyclops
Post by: Alxbates on December 02, 2016, 02:53:25 AM
And in non-Kickstarter related news, after a false start and a delay, the Pterro-Sphinx and the Doom Serpent idol are now headed to the caster.

I should have them in stock just before Christmas.  Probably not in time to deliver before the holiday, but I expect they'll be for sale by then.
Title: Re: Denizens of Azor preview thread - the Cyclops
Post by: Alxbates on December 05, 2016, 01:38:22 AM
A brief heads-up - I'll be locking the surveys down on Monday (about 24 hours from the time of this writing). So if you've gotten your Kickstarter survey & haven't filled it out yet, please do so ASAP.

If you don't need any rewards (that's most of the $1 pledges), or if you've already worked things out with me via email or message, then feel free to disregard this note.

-Alex
Title: Re: Denizens of Azor preview thread - the Cyclops
Post by: LeadAsbestos on December 16, 2016, 01:22:46 AM
"I like tough, badass women, I like Pulp art, I like Minoan Crete and ancient Greece and ancient Egypt, and I like boobs.  I don't think that those interests are mutually exclusive."

Well said.  :)

Order incoming...
Title: Re: Denizens of Azor preview thread - the Cyclops
Post by: Alxbates on December 16, 2016, 02:45:37 AM
I've got a little Shrine of the Cyclops set coming out soon, too - it'll include an armored version of the cyclops I posted earlier:

(http://i.imgur.com/YizT1fz.jpg)

(http://i.imgur.com/6puuYqi.jpg)

Also an actual shrine, complete with a rune-decorated 'cyclops' skull:

(rough sketch by me)
(http://i.imgur.com/9DGy9L1.jpg)

(http://i.imgur.com/TkRU2zR.jpg)

Sculpt in progress by Dave Cauley!

(http://i.imgur.com/jMhCrJW.jpg)

(http://i.imgur.com/aqOH4D8.jpg)

The shrine put together by Dave, nearly finished:

(http://i.imgur.com/C2aol4k.jpg)

The set will also include a priest and a couple of guards.  I'm not sure exactly when it'll be released, probably early next year.  Maybe January or February.
Title: Re: Denizens of Azor preview thread - the Cyclops
Post by: orc on December 16, 2016, 06:00:00 AM
 :o :o :oGorgerous Alex!!!! I trully like your range of minis,!! Congratulations!! :-*
Title: Re: Denizens of Azor preview thread - the Cyclops
Post by: beefcake on December 16, 2016, 10:05:10 AM
 lol I love the cyclops skull. very believable. Looks great.
Title: Re: Denizens of Azor preview thread - the Cyclops
Post by: Argonor on December 16, 2016, 01:08:56 PM
What is the metal thread you used on ýour engraving tool, please? Seems a very useful DIY build!
Title: Re: Denizens of Azor preview thread - the Cyclops
Post by: ShortscaleDave on December 16, 2016, 04:47:10 PM
What is the metal thread you used on ýour engraving tool, please? Seems a very useful DIY build!

Hi Argonor, I'm the sculptor, thanks for the question!  I cant claim any innovation as I have seen other sculptors create similar tools, mainly the genius that is Francagne Didier (hope I spelt that right).  It is particukarly useful for clay and wax like putty as it allows you to scoop out excess putty, shave it down, and cut into without building the putty up either side.  I haven't tried it with green stuff but assume that consistency might not work quite so well in that regard.

I made it with a length of Mandolin String, just folded a nice point in it, glued the lengths either side of an old brush, and epoxied over the top.  It's my first of its type and and was largely due to having moved to sculoting in Beesputty, which has a nice waxy clay type behaviour, ideal for "loop" tools like this one.  A small staple might make a good thing to try instead of mandolin wire, but I am yet to experiment there.

It is not quite good enough yet as the wire is still too big for fine work, and the fast drying epoxy smells of chemicals after I hold it too long (i worry about absorbing it basically) SO..... the next step is to identify some really thin and robust wire, and use some green stuff next time to fix it im place.

Hooe that helps!  It's a really easy tool to make, and I will be making different versions for different types of sculpting in the near future :)
Title: Re: Denizens of Azor preview thread - the Cyclops
Post by: Argonor on December 16, 2016, 08:58:05 PM
Hooe that helps!  It's a really easy tool to make, and I will be making different versions for different types of sculpting in the near future :)

Very helpful, thanks!
Title: Re: Denizens of Azor preview thread - the Cyclops
Post by: Alxbates on December 23, 2016, 11:23:41 AM
Brian Roe has painted up one of my Entelodonts - the creature was sculpted by Matt Gubser, but Brian designed the base.

There are three different variants of the base, you get one with each Entelodont.

(http://i.imgur.com/1A0KyBs.jpg)

(http://i.imgur.com/irxHoyx.jpg)

(http://i.imgur.com/oask3Ac.jpg)
Title: Re: Denizens of Azor progress thread - Doom Serpent & Pterro-Sphinx
Post by: Alxbates on December 23, 2016, 02:28:38 PM
And Dave Cauley's terrain pieces are at the caster now, too.

They're not part of the Kickstarter, the timing just worked out that they're getting cast up at about the same time.  I expect to have them for sale in mid-January.

(http://i.imgur.com/XEHOQIB.jpg)

(http://i.imgur.com/jriscXe.jpg)

(http://i.imgur.com/FBNwjOT.jpg)

If anyone wants to pre-order one now, the early bird price on the Doom Serpent idols is $20, and the Pterro-Sphinxes are $25, or $45 for two (and if you want more than two, they'll all be $22.50 each).

If you pledged to the KS and want to add them to your pledge, I can do that, too, to save on shipping (although that will delay delivery by a week or two).
Title: Re: Denizens of Azor progress thread - Doom Serpent & Pterro-Sphinx
Post by: d phipps on December 23, 2016, 06:04:39 PM
Fantastic work!  :-* :-*
Title: Re: Denizens of Azor progress thread - Doom Serpent & Pterro-Sphinx
Post by: Dr Mathias on December 24, 2016, 03:39:04 AM
Excellent statuary :)
Title: Re: Denizens of Azor progress thread - Doom Serpent & Pterro-Sphinx
Post by: Gun bunny on December 25, 2016, 11:18:44 PM
really gorgeous work, i am so jealous right now
Title: Re: Denizens of Azor progress thread - Doom Serpent & Pterro-Sphinx
Post by: Alxbates on December 31, 2016, 06:43:30 AM
(http://i.imgur.com/JAig8OL.jpg)

The caster is finished!  2000 plus miniatures are headed my way!

I should be able to start packing all the stuff for the Kickstarter by the end of next week.

I suspect I'll be pulling a couple of 12 hour days to get this all done quickly :)

-Alex
Title: Re: Denizens of Azor progress thread - Doom Serpent & Pterro-Sphinx
Post by: Alxbates on January 02, 2017, 09:13:49 AM
Something else I'm working on is some actual retail packaging.

Not that I can afford to give a wholesale discount on my stuff, but, I do want to start doing conventions more often, and I think it'd be nice to have something better than ziploc baggies to sell my miniatures in.

I'll probably be buying those clamshell-type cases that I can put a card insert into, as those are easy to pack and fairly versatile.  So, I had a piece of art made by Jeff Lafferty, and I was tinkering with a mock-up of what the card insert will look like.

Keep in mind this is a photo of a print made on my home printer, itself made from a photo of the artwork, so the colors are pretty washed out.  Here's a rough concept for it, literally cut and pasted together:

(http://i.imgur.com/SYwMRYw.jpg)
Title: Re: Denizens of Azor progress thread - Doom Serpent & Pterro-Sphinx
Post by: beefcake on January 02, 2017, 09:41:52 AM
That looks nice. Kind of what I expected the setting to look like :)
Title: Re: Denizens of Azor progress thread - Doom Serpent & Pterro-Sphinx
Post by: Alxbates on January 02, 2017, 10:42:47 AM
That looks nice. Kind of what I expected the setting to look like :)

Huzzah!

It is indeed.

I really need to get some sort of pamphlet or chapbook out detailing the setting.  I wanted to have a decent number of miniatures in production before I put any resources into written material and I think I'm there now, or at least getting close.
Title: Re: Denizens of Azor progress thread - Doom Serpent & Pterro-Sphinx
Post by: Wolf Girl on January 02, 2017, 07:04:56 PM
Looks great!
Title: Oh Boy!! Oh Boy!! Oh Boy!! Oh Boy!! Oh Boy!!
Post by: Valerik on January 29, 2017, 12:51:52 AM

The caster is finished!  2000 plus miniatures are headed my way!

I should be able to start packing all the stuff for the Kickstarter by the end of next week.

I suspect I'll be pulling a couple of 12 hour days to get this all done quickly :)

-Alex

I gotta box from Alaska!!!!

Smallish box, but Oh What Goodies!!

To say I'm delighted is putting it mildly!!

Very, very glad I backed his Kickstarter.

Sentries, sultry n' sleepy received in good order...

ONE spear wasn't perfectly straight, tisk, tisk,you must do better...

Now, how do I get in line for some tents??

Thank you Alex, Bravo, WELL DONE Sir!!

Valerik

always something or someone else to jolly well buy
Title: Re: Oh Boy!! Oh Boy!! Oh Boy!! Oh Boy!! Oh Boy!!
Post by: Alxbates on January 29, 2017, 06:50:24 AM
I gotta box from Alaska!!!!

Smallish box, but Oh What Goodies!!

To say I'm delighted is putting it mildly!!

Very, very glad I backed his Kickstarter.

Sentries, sultry n' sleepy received in good order...

ONE spear wasn't perfectly straight, tisk, tisk,you must do better...

Now, how do I get in line for some tents??

Thank you Alex, Bravo, WELL DONE Sir!!

Valerik

always something or someone else to jolly well buy


Aw, darn it!  I spent a TON of time straightening those damned spears! LOL

Very glad that you're happy with the figures!  I'm still not quite halfway through packing and shipping things, but, I'm progressing.  That's partly why I haven't posted much lately - I haven't had anything visually fun to report, just checking invoices, straightening bent spears, and packing boxes.  Boxes and boxes and boxes!

I'm also getting geared up for my *next* Kickstarter - it'll be called "The Eye of the Cyclops".  I've already posted pics of the Shrine (earlier in this thread), and the set will include the high priest of the Cult of the Cyclops, a couple of cultists, an armored cyclops and some treasure items & accessories.  Maybe a map, definitely some sort of pamphlet describing the cult & how to use it in your RPG campaigns. 

The priest is nearly finished, the shrine is done, the accessories are in progress, a sculptor is lined up for the cultists... I'll probably launch it in March, I think.
Title: Re: Denizens of Azor progress thread - Doom Serpent & Pterro-Sphinx
Post by: Alxbates on January 29, 2017, 06:56:30 AM
Also - the tents have been cast, they're being shipped to me on Monday, I should have them in hand by this time next week.  I'll post an update when they arrive!
Title: Re: Denizens of Azor progress thread - Doom Serpent & Pterro-Sphinx
Post by: Alxbates on January 29, 2017, 10:55:53 AM
I mentioned progress with the Cyclops cult - Drew Williams is nearly finished with the cult leader:

(http://i.imgur.com/DZZ2W9Q.jpg)

And I think I've finally got the blister card art worked out - painting by Jeff Lafferty:

(http://i.imgur.com/xgesjmo.jpg)
Title: Re: Denizens of Azor progress thread - Doom Serpent & Pterro-Sphinx
Post by: orc on January 29, 2017, 12:31:57 PM
 :o :o :o Great sculpt and very nice blister card!!  :-* :-* :-* :- Congrat Alex !!!
Title: Re: Denizens of Azor progress thread - Doom Serpent & Pterro-Sphinx
Post by: Alxbates on January 29, 2017, 01:39:06 PM
I'll also mention that I've got a small number of the Saleesa back in stock - and now, they have a net!

(http://i.imgur.com/UJE6Wja.jpg)

You've gotta bend the arms in a bit (huzzah for metal miniatures!), but it adds a nice element to them, I think.

(http://i.imgur.com/HDLWEWO.jpg)

The Saleesa are still $5, the nets are $2
Title: Re: Denizens of Azor progress thread - Doom Serpent & Pterro-Sphinx
Post by: Wolf Girl on January 29, 2017, 06:32:21 PM
Oooh, those Saleesa look awesome!  :-* :-*
Title: Re: Denizens of Azor progress thread - Doom Serpent & Pterro-Sphinx
Post by: Alxbates on February 19, 2017, 11:41:56 PM
Well, I'm still slogging away at shipping the KS stuff (nearly all US orders are in the mail, and I've begun on the international stuff!), but I've got some painting to do soon & last night I was feeling inspired, so I painted up one of the Doom Serpent Idols.  I'm pretty happy with how it turned out!

(http://i.imgur.com/6l0ODkG.jpg)

(http://i.imgur.com/WszOw2g.jpg)

And, from the back!

(http://i.imgur.com/tqKJ2nf.jpg)

Also, the leader of the Cult of the Eye (tentatively I'm gonna call him the "Voice of the Eye"), sculpted by Drew Williams for my next Kickstarter has arrived!

(http://i.imgur.com/obeTuTm.jpg)

I'm really happy with how he turned out!

(http://i.imgur.com/0j8PFRy.jpg)
Title: Re: Denizens of Azor progress thread - Doom Serpent & Pterro-Sphinx
Post by: Sir Barnaby Hammond-Rye on February 20, 2017, 01:03:09 AM
Perfect!  :-*
Title: Re: Denizens of Azor progress thread - Doom Serpent & Pterro-Sphinx
Post by: Dr Mathias on February 20, 2017, 02:26:36 AM
That serpent idol is spectacular, spot on.
Title: Re: Denizens of Azor progress thread - Doom Serpent & Pterro-Sphinx
Post by: beefcake on February 20, 2017, 04:10:40 AM
love the cult leader. Cool how you have covered the eyes.
Title: Re: Denizens of Azor progress thread - Doom Serpent & Pterro-Sphinx
Post by: Alxbates on March 01, 2017, 05:30:27 AM
I had a dream last night about packing orders and arguing with the lady at the post office.

BUT, as of Monday, ALL of the US Kickstarter pledges have shipped.  Man, that's a relief.  There are about two dozen international orders yet to ship out, then the painted sets, and then I'm done!

This has gotten away from me a little bit, but I'm in the home stretch.

Then, to apply the lessons I've learned from this and run another campaign!

Title: Re: Denizens of Azor progress thread - The Sirrush!!
Post by: Alxbates on March 03, 2017, 07:58:53 AM
I mentioned that I'm working towards my next Kickstarter - that's true, but I've also got some non-KS releases in the pipeline.

John Dennett just finished this magnificent Sirrush:

(http://i.imgur.com/wkspRn0.jpg)

It's about nine inches long.

(http://i.imgur.com/XR8f2H5.jpg)

And here's a photo of the sculpt before it was finished, but it's a good angle that shows the pose:

(http://i.imgur.com/spBGVOb.jpg)

I've always thought that the Babylonian Sirrush is an interesting creature. The carvings of it that exist are more lifelike than most ancient representations of mythological creatures, and I like the theory that maybe, just maybe, it was inspired by a real animal.

So, I tried to think about what a Sirrush might have looked like had it been real. The most appropriate real-word animal that I could think of was a monitor lizard.  Like, a giant monitor lizard - much bigger than the Komodo Dragon. And with horns! And a long neck!

Later I found that PJ Farmer's 'Tarzan Alive' book mentions that Tarzan once encountered the last of the Sirrush, so that made me feel even better about including a Sirrush in Azor.    

This is the largest creature that I currently have planned for Azor, and I'm very excited to bring a new John Dennett dragon into the world!  I plan to release it in resin, but I just might do a short run of metal models, too.  The old-school gamer in me is giddy at the idea of having a new large metal Dennett dragon on my table.  There will also be a second head with the mouth open, I just need to get a master casting made of the original first.
Title: Re: Denizens of Azor progress thread - The Sirrush!!
Post by: beefcake on March 03, 2017, 09:26:05 AM
Very nice. It definitely has a comodo dragon look to the hind part. The scales on the neck make it seem as if the head doesn't really belong to it is my only gripe.
Title: Re: Denizens of Azor progress thread - The Sirrush!!
Post by: Alxbates on March 03, 2017, 06:30:33 PM
Very nice. It definitely has a comodo dragon look to the hind part. The scales on the neck make it seem as if the head doesn't really belong to it is my only gripe.

I guess I can see that.  The larger scales on the neck are intentional.  If you don't mind me rambling on a bit, I'll explain my thought process. 

Here's the original image of a Sirrush that I started with:

(http://i.imgur.com/V8kSA1C.jpg)

It's relatively realistic-looking compared to a lot of the representations of mythological creatures you see from the time... but "relatively" means that it's still pretty weird.  As I said in my earlier post, the animal that seemed most plausible as an inspiration for it might have been an unknown, large and long-necked species of Goana or Monitor Lizard - something way bigger than a Komodo dragon.  Horns are unknown in the Varanus genus (as far as I know!), but lots of other lizards have horns, so I figured it wasn't too much of a stretch to add them to my Sirrush.

(http://i.imgur.com/Dh8ZhCV.gif)

If you clean the art up you can more clearly see that it has a mane.  A lot of dragons and some real world lizards have a 'mane', or a crest of spikes or scales that stick up along the neck, but... it always looked a little bland or 'on the nose', so I started thinking about how to try something a little different.

(http://i.imgur.com/mwd6Gn5.jpg)

I imagine the Sirrush as being lazy and opportunistic predators, comfortable in the water, and tending to lay in wait by waterways for unwary fish to swim by.  There aren't a lot of long-necked predators in the real world, and most of the ones that I could find tended to eat fish, so, that it seemed plausible for fish to be a big part of their diet.  Having prominent scales on the neck helps to break up the shadow of the creature when it's hanging its head over a body of water.  It can flex them a little bit for threat displays, too - although that only happens with other Sirrushes, of course.  They're large enough that they don't really see many other creatures as a danger.

Anyways, that's why the neck has big scales and the body is relatively smooth.
Title: Re: Denizens of Azor progress thread - The Sirrush!!
Post by: Dr Mathias on March 03, 2017, 06:39:27 PM
Great job, I was reminded of the images on the Ishtar Gate immediately.
Title: Re: Denizens of Azor progress thread - The Sirrush!!
Post by: Sir Barnaby Hammond-Rye on March 03, 2017, 07:00:48 PM
Looks great! I don't see any "problem" with the scales.
Title: Re: Denizens of Azor progress thread - The Sirrush!!
Post by: von Lucky on March 03, 2017, 09:01:00 PM
What a lovely sculpt. So full of understanded character. The slightly different colour of the resin of the head/neck to the body I think has made the scale appear different size/style. I think a little Greenstuff and painting will make it absolutely clear you should never turn your back on these creatures.
Title: Re: Denizens of Azor progress thread - The Sirrush!!
Post by: beefcake on March 03, 2017, 10:21:40 PM
I guess I can see that.  The larger scales on the neck are intentional.  If you don't mind me rambling on a bit, I'll explain my thought process. 

Here's the original image of a Sirrush that I started with:

It's relatively realistic-looking compared to a lot of the representations of mythological creatures you see from the time... but "relatively" means that it's still pretty weird.  As I said in my earlier post, the animal that seemed most plausible as an inspiration for it might have been an unknown, large and long-necked species of Goana or Monitor Lizard - something way bigger than a Komodo dragon.  Horns are unknown in the Varanus genus (as far as I know!), but lots of other lizards have horns, so I figured it wasn't too much of a stretch to add them to my Sirrush.

If you clean the art up you can more clearly see that it has a mane.  A lot of dragons and some real world lizards have a 'mane', or a crest of spikes or scales that stick up along the neck, but... it always looked a little bland or 'on the nose', so I started thinking about how to try something a little different.

I imagine the Sirrush as being lazy and opportunistic predators, comfortable in the water, and tending to lay in wait by waterways for unwary fish to swim by.  There aren't a lot of long-necked predators in the real world, and most of the ones that I could find tended to eat fish, so, that it seemed plausible for fish to be a big part of their diet.  Having prominent scales on the neck helps to break up the shadow of the creature when it's hanging its head over a body of water.  It can flex them a little bit for threat displays, too - although that only happens with other Sirrushes, of course.  They're large enough that they don't really see many other creatures as a danger.

Anyways, that's why the neck has big scales and the body is relatively smooth.

Great explanation. The sculpting is great and the change between scaly to non scaly works well.
Title: Re: Denizens of Azor progress thread - Finally painted some Azor
Post by: Hobby Services on March 04, 2017, 08:31:06 PM
Took me longer than it should have, but I finally got some of the Azor serpent priestesses painted up, seen here alongside some Reaper models and a random rattlesnake from some toy range.  Think they make quite a nice set despite the varied sources, and the Forge of Ice castings are top notch.  For scale reference, the girls have been stuck on 30mm bases, the medusa is on a 45mm, and the big rattler is on a 60mm.

(http://i.ebayimg.com/images/g/6mIAAOSwB-1Yux4w/s-l1000.jpg)

(http://i.ebayimg.com/images/g/PssAAOSwax5Yux4-/s-l1000.jpg)

(http://i.ebayimg.com/images/g/Cp8AAOSw4A5Yux5H/s-l1000.jpg)

(http://i.ebayimg.com/images/g/zScAAOSwfVpYux5R/s-l1000.jpg)

(http://i.ebayimg.com/images/g/EogAAOSwXYtYux5a/s-l1000.jpg)
Title: Re: Denizens of Azor progress thread - The Sirrush!!
Post by: Alxbates on March 04, 2017, 10:25:17 PM
Those look great, man!  Thanks for sharing the pics!  Mind if I post them to the FOI Facebook page?
Title: Re: Denizens of Azor progress thread - The Sirrush!!
Post by: Hobby Services on March 04, 2017, 10:58:03 PM
Those look great, man!  Thanks for sharing the pics!  Mind if I post them to the FOI Facebook page?

Thanks, pretty happy with the lot.  Sent you a PM.
Title: Re: Denizens of Azor progress thread - The Sirrush!!
Post by: Hobby Services on March 04, 2017, 11:08:48 PM
Later I found that PJ Farmer's 'Tarzan Alive' book mentions that Tarzan once encountered the last of the Sirrush, so that made me feel even better about including a Sirrush in Azor.

Tarzan the Terrible, IIRC.  The one set in Pal-Ul-Don, which is chock full of Azor-style weirdness.  Good read.  Justifies having a gryf/triceratops model made as well.  :)
Title: Re: Denizens of Azor progress thread - The Sirrush!!
Post by: Alxbates on March 05, 2017, 05:33:12 PM
Edgar Rice Burroughs' Lost Worlds/Lost Cities are a major inspiration for me.  Pal-Ul-Don, Opar, Pellucidar, Cathne & Athne, Xuja... they're great!
Title: Re: Denizens of Azor progress thread - The Sirrush!!
Post by: Alxbates on March 26, 2017, 09:33:20 AM
Jeez... I have discovered the hard way that I was not set up for the volume of shipping that I've been slogging through!

Lessons learned!

But, while I'm wading through a pile of invoices & packages, some sculptors are still making progress on my future projects.

Kev White has finished the first of two noblewomen who share the throne of Zor-Al, Azor's sister city and ancient rival:

(http://i.imgur.com/97E3AkJ.jpg)

(http://i.imgur.com/oFlXart.jpg)

Also, since I'm nearly ready to start on the painted sets for the Kickstarter, I've started painting a few terrain pieces as a warm-up.  I finished that Doom Serpent Idol recently, next up I'm working on a couple of my Pterro-Sphinxes.

I need to build a whole big terrain board for them, but, that's a little further away...

(http://i.imgur.com/1rsURqi.png)
Title: Re: Denizens of Azor progress thread - The Sirrush!!
Post by: Argonor on March 26, 2017, 08:43:49 PM
Would those noblewomen be one fair and one dark sister?
Title: Re: Denizens of Azor progress thread - The Sirrush!!
Post by: Alxbates on March 27, 2017, 02:12:05 AM
Nope - it'll be the Queen (that's her above), and a Princess (yet to arrive!)
Title: Re: Denizens of Azor progress: The Queen, new sculpt by Kev White
Post by: Sir Barnaby Hammond-Rye on March 27, 2017, 02:13:43 AM
Hopefully Kev will be doing action poses as well...?
Title: Re: Denizens of Azor progress: The Queen, new sculpt by Kev White
Post by: d phipps on March 27, 2017, 02:26:10 AM
Beautiful model!  :-*
Title: Re: Denizens of Azor progress: The Queen, new sculpt by Kev White
Post by: Alxbates on March 27, 2017, 02:29:41 AM
Hopefully Kev will be doing action poses as well...?

There's a whole set planned!

Although Kev might only be doing the two figures on thrones - I've not gotten that far with the project yet.
Title: Re: Denizens of Azor progress: The Queen, new sculpt by Kev White
Post by: Alxbates on March 28, 2017, 03:19:08 AM
Resin master casting of the queen! 

(http://i.imgur.com/qQ6GZ2u.jpg)
Title: Re: Denizens of Azor progress: The Queen, new sculpt by Kev White
Post by: Alxbates on March 30, 2017, 02:21:09 PM
Heya folks!

In some super-freaking-doubleplusgood-awesome news, FENRIS GAMES WILL BE CARRYING FORGE OF ICE MINIATURES AT SALUTE!

So - If you will be at Salute,  you can place an order with me right now (like, seriously, right now - I need to have it by Sunday at the latest), I can ship your order with the Fenris stock, and you can pick it up from them at Salute.  You'll save on shipping, and you will not get hit with a nasty customs fee.

I'm not sure how many people here will be at Salute, but for anyone who's going, this is a rare opportunity to get miniatures from Alaska to the UK relatively inexpensively.

Hit me up if you're interested!
Title: Re: Denizens of Azor progress: The Queen, new sculpt by Kev White
Post by: manic _miner on March 30, 2017, 03:53:05 PM
 Just seen this on FB and it is great that you and Ian have teamed up.It will make it very easy for people here in the UK to pick up your miniatures and terrain elements too.How it goes well and you get lots of sale to help fund the next pieces.
Title: Re: Denizens of Azor progress: The Queen, new sculpt by Kev White
Post by: Argonor on March 30, 2017, 03:59:19 PM
Among them, Forge of Ice and Lucid Eye caters for the High Adventure/Lost World crowd, like we've never been treated before.

I shall probably cave in and start a new Pulp project in a not too distant future  o_o
Title: Re: Denizens of Azor progress: The Queen, new sculpt by Kev White
Post by: Alxbates on March 31, 2017, 07:35:59 AM
Among them, Forge of Ice and Lucid Eye caters for the High Adventure/Lost World crowd, like we've never been treated before.

I shall probably cave in and start a new Pulp project in a not too distant future  o_o

I've had a few people ask me why I consider my stuff to be "Pulp" rather than Fantasy, and my response is always "What could be more Pulp than King Kong?  Or Doc Savage's Thunder Island?  Opar, Pellucidar, or Pal-Ul-Don?".  Heck, how about 'Journey to the Center of the Earth', or 'She'?

There's no explicit magic in Azor, just hypnosis and weird tropical drugs or hallucinogenic incense.  My stuff is intentionally a good fit (in my opinion!) for Conan or other Swords and Sorcery settings, but I think that Lost Worlds can fit in almost anywhere.

... that said, I do occasionally wonder if maybe I'd get more interest if I promoted myself more as having a line of fantasy figures.  I dunno. 

You mentioned the Lucid Eye stuff - maaaaan, their stuff is gorgeous!  I've never had any interactions with them that I'm aware of, but I love their Neanderthals and Simians.  I have my own tribe of ape-men planned, eventually, and I think that mine are different enough to be worth doing, but, Lucid Eye has certainly set a very high bar.

I'm super curious to see what the Frostgrave Lost Archipelago stuff looks like.  I'm hoping that it might increase the interest in my stuff, but, again, Frostgrave makes some gorgeous miniatures.  I'm sure that whatever they do will be excellent.

It's a good time to be into Lost World gaming!
Title: Re: Denizens of Azor progress: The Queen, new sculpt by Kev White (at Salute!)
Post by: Hobby Services on April 02, 2017, 03:15:58 PM
Love the queen model, will be getting one of those for sure.

And what do I stumble across at random while painting another set of serpent priestesses?  Forge of Ice on a gaming podcast:

http://mannmomo.blogspot.com/p/the-hub-systems-podcast.html
Title: Re: Denizens of Azor progress: The Queen, new sculpt by Kev White (at Salute!)
Post by: Alxbates on April 04, 2017, 06:13:39 PM
Love the queen model, will be getting one of those for sure.

And what do I stumble across at random while painting another set of serpent priestesses?  Forge of Ice on a gaming podcast:

http://mannmomo.blogspot.com/p/the-hub-systems-podcast.html

Oh yeah!

I've been meaning to post about that - I was sent the link on April 1st, but I try real hard to not be online at all on April Fool's day, and I don't post anything at all if I can help it.

And I've had a busy weekend, getting things together for Fenris & Salute - Fenris will also be carrying my miniatures in the UK, acting as my European distributor.  That might make it easier for people in the UK and Europe to order my products without having to pay exorbitant shipping fees from Alaska.

What'd you think of the podcast?  I was a college radio DJ for quite awhile, there was a time when I was very good about avoiding overuse of "um"'s and "ah"'s... but apparently that is a skill one loses if one doesn't use it! :D
Title: Re: Denizens of Azor progress: The Queen, new sculpt by Kev White (at Salute!)
Post by: Alxbates on April 09, 2017, 11:21:35 AM
I've got a couple of new things coming now -

First of all, Fenris Games won't just be carrying Forge of Ice miniatures at Salute, they'll also be acting as my distributors in the UK (and Europe)!  This should solve some of the issues that have arisen from international shipping.

Secondly, John Dennett has finished the second head variant of the Sirrush:

(http://i.imgur.com/M3sl2NX.jpg)

Each Sirrush will come with both heads, and I expect to have the castings in hand around the end of the month.

Kev White has finished the Princess, too - Princess Amal-Téa!

(http://i.imgur.com/2nc0Zft.jpg)

(http://i.imgur.com/OUzgRhJ.jpg)

These are being cast in resin in the UK right now, and I'm gonna try to get some of them to Salute... but the timing might not work out.  It'll be close.

That's about it for now. 

I'm probably going to run a contest to name the Queen, with one of the resin masters up as the prize, but that's a little ways away yet.
Title: Re: Denizens of Azor progress: The Queen, new sculpt by Kev White (at Salute!)
Post by: Hobby Services on April 09, 2017, 03:49:28 PM
Oh for crying out loud, just take my money already.  Irresistable.

Queenie needs a footstool though.  Preferably a living one, she looks like the type to keep a lackey around for that kind of thing.
Title: Re: Denizens of Azor progress: The Queen, new sculpt by Kev White (at Salute!)
Post by: Sinewgrab on April 09, 2017, 04:38:57 PM
Oh crap, my wallet just started screaming.  Snake priestesses, the ladies on thrones, strange beasties...I feel my money getting sucked away...

Title: Re: Denizens of Azor progress: The Queen, new sculpt by Kev White (at Salute!)
Post by: Psychoflexible on April 09, 2017, 05:57:57 PM


First of all, Fenris Games won't just be carrying Forge of Ice miniatures at Salute, they'll also be acting as my distributors in the UK (and Europe)!  This should solve some of the issues that have arisen from international shipping.


And that's a very good new ! ;D
Title: Re: Denizens of Azor progress: The Queen, new sculpt by Kev White (at Salute!)
Post by: Dr Mathias on April 09, 2017, 06:53:55 PM
Great additions. I really like the poses.

Kev is a killer sculptor.

Title: Re: Denizens of Azor progress: The Queen, new sculpt by Kev White (at Salute!)
Post by: Hobby Services on April 09, 2017, 07:47:26 PM
Kev is a killer sculptor.

Understatement of the century.  Unmatched when it comes to naturalistic posing.
Title: Re: Denizens of Azor progress: The Queen, new sculpt by Kev White (at Salute!)
Post by: chirine ba kal on April 09, 2017, 07:57:01 PM
My Missus took a look at these, and will be firing off a 'pre-order' to you via your FB page.

If I may ask a stupid question, will the ladies be cast seperate from their thrones, or all in one?
Title: Re: Denizens of Azor progress: The Queen, new sculpt by Kev White (at Salute!)
Post by: Hobby Services on April 09, 2017, 08:03:45 PM
My Missus took a look at these, and will be firing off a 'pre-order' to you via your FB page.

If I may ask a stupid question, will the ladies be cast seperate from their thrones, or all in one?

Certainly hope they'll be separate.  I have plans for those thrones with different figs planted on them, and I'm quite sure I can find other things for the ladies to plant their butts on.
Title: Re: Denizens of Azor progress: The Queen, new sculpt by Kev White (at Salute!)
Post by: Dr Mathias on April 09, 2017, 08:07:52 PM
Certainly hope they'll be separate.  I have plans for those thrones with different figs planted on them, and I'm quite sure I can find other things for the ladies to plant their butts on.

I may need two sets- one for regular retro sci-fi/pulp and another to use as Dark Eldar. They would look pretty good on a Raider.
Title: Re: Denizens of Azor progress: The Queen, new sculpt by Kev White (at Salute!)
Post by: von Lucky on April 09, 2017, 10:14:30 PM
Do all princess pairs have an Elsa and Anna type? Lovely sculpting.
Title: Re: Denizens of Azor progress: The Queen, new sculpt by Kev White (at Salute!)
Post by: Alxbates on April 10, 2017, 06:41:06 PM
My Missus took a look at these, and will be firing off a 'pre-order' to you via your FB page.

If I may ask a stupid question, will the ladies be cast seperate from their thrones, or all in one?

Yep, the ladies are separate from their thrones.

AND, I have plans to do standing versions of both of them in the future - Kev *might* be sculpting those, but, it depends on his schedule.  If he's not able to, I have permission from Kev to convert his sculpts.  I've already asked Patrick Keith about it (he's the guy who sculpted my snake priestesses), and he expressed some interest... no matter how it works out, the standing versions of them will be just as good as the seated ones.

And there will also be a footstool AND a harem boy as part of the set.

Still not quite sure if the timing will work out, but, I'm trying to get some resin master castings to Fenris in time to be previewed (and sold!) at Salute.
Title: Re: Denizens of Azor progress: The Queen, new sculpt by Kev White (at Salute!)
Post by: FramFramson on April 10, 2017, 06:55:22 PM
Sure hope Kev can do the standing versions!
Title: Re: Denizens of Azor progress: The Queen, new sculpt by Kev White (at Salute!)
Post by: Hobby Services on April 10, 2017, 10:50:37 PM
Sure hope Kev can do the standing versions!

Seconded.  Get the Master if you can.
Title: Re: Denizens of Azor progress: The Queen, new sculpt by Kev White (at Salute!)
Post by: FramFramson on April 11, 2017, 05:19:56 AM
Yeah. Keith is a fine sculptor, but Kev is on another level. I think the difference would be noticeable.
Title: Re: Denizens of Azor progress: The Queen, new sculpt by Kev White (at Salute!)
Post by: Alxbates on April 11, 2017, 07:54:03 AM
Yeah. Keith is a fine sculptor, but Kev is on another level. I think the difference would be noticeable.

I'm a big fan of both of their work, they just have a different style.  Kev White and Patrick Keith are my two favorite sculptors of the female form, though.  

That's not to say that there aren't some others out there whose work I admire - John Winter's Barsoom stuff is exquisite, and David Soderquist's fantasy work is really great, too (although, again, their styles are very different).  I love Chris Fitzpatrick's women, too - his Basti for Wargods are some of my favorites from that line.

I was kinda looking forward to seeing Patrick Keith sculpt something in Kev's manner - I think it's fun to see artists do 'cover' pieces occasionally.  It can be interesting to see them try a different style.

Heck, maybe, if the Kickstarter goes well, I'll have them BOTH do a version.  As things stand at this moment, neither one of them has committed to it, it's too far away for me to plan out.

I'm focused on finishing up this first Kickstarter, then launching the Eye of the Cyclops one.

It's great to have the Queen and the Princess finished now, but there's a whole set that'll be going with them.  I'm a firm believer in having all (or at least the vast majority) of the miniatures for my Kickstarters sculpted *before* I launch them.
Title: Re: Denizens of Azor progress: The Queen, new sculpt by Kev White (at Salute!)
Post by: FramFramson on April 11, 2017, 07:58:34 AM
I'm a firm believer in having all (or at least the vast majority) of the miniatures for my Kickstarters sculpted *before* I launch them.

This is simply sound policy for miniatures Kickstarters.
Title: Re: Denizens of Azor progress: The Queen, new sculpt by Kev White (at Salute!)
Post by: Alxbates on April 11, 2017, 10:14:03 AM
This is simply sound policy for miniatures Kickstarters.

I agree!

I think it takes some of the uncertainty out of things, and it also helps to pin down the timeline for fulfillment.

(...says the guy who is way late on fulfillment... ugh...)

I've got a full dance card for the rest of the year, I think.

My plans for 2017 go something like this, subject to the vicissitudes of fate:

 - finish fulfillment for the Sleepy Sentry Kickstarter

 - finish the second issue of my comic book.  We sold out of the first issue, so we're doing another print run of that - www.theclockworkqueen.com

 - Finish transcribing "Swallowed by an Earthquake", a 120-year-old Lost World book that Forge of Ice will be reprinting

 - finish prep for the Eye of the Cyclops KS

 - get online store up and running

 - Launch the Eye of the Cyclops KS

 - work on terrain display board
 
 - sort out some non-Kickstarter new releases (a second Man-Ape, some more large reptiles, Sword-Billed Cranes, more Pterro-men, treasure items, etc)

 - finish my novel (and a sequel!  And some short stories!)

 - Gen Con (maybe!)

 - Prep for and launch the Occluded Court of Zor-Al Kickstarter (that's where the Queen and the Princess will be released)

In the longer term, probably next year, I have some thoughts on what I'd like to do, assuming that this year goes well:

 - Figure out how to be able to release my tribe of Ape Men and also a tribe of Histath (Snake Men).  Probably Kickstarter, but, I'd prefer to have them come out as regular releases.

 - Plan out and do my BIG Kickstarter for my campaign setting boxed set - AZOR, complete with sourcebook, campaign module, map, cardstock buildings, etc.  This will be the whole shebang - I loved the old D&D Campaign boxed sets (Dark Sun!  Planescape!!), and the old Warhammer sets (McDeath, Blood Bath at Orc's Drift, etc), this will be my version of that.  Then I'll finally have all the setting info in one place, rather than scattered across a dozen word documents and four sketchbooks in my house.

 - After all that I have some more vague ideas, "Demon Servants of the Ape God", "Hidden City of the Leopard Men", an ice-age supplement (the frozen mountains around Azor), and an underground one (the caves & hot springs beneath Azor), too.  I have a fully-fleshed out and expansive setting in my head, it's just about getting it illustrated, sculpted, and into print.

But, that stuff is so far in the future I cant do a whole lot to prep for it except to continue to write and sketch.  Still, it's good to have at least a broad (and flexible!) outline for where I'd *like* to be in a year or two.  Trying to do this as a full-time job is scary and uncertain, but so far I'm glad I've taken the plunge.

I'm looking forward to making that display board, too.  It'll be good to have something to post here that's more traditionally forum-friendly:  progress pictures of a terrain project.  :D
Title: Re: Denizens of Azor progress: The Queen, new sculpt by Kev White (at Salute!)
Post by: Dr Mathias on April 11, 2017, 05:11:34 PM
That's quite a year :)

- Gen Con (maybe!)

Let me know if you do go- I'm planning on it. It's always fun to meet up with LAF members.
Title: Re: Denizens of Azor: The Princess & the Queen, new sculpts by Kev White
Post by: Sir Barnaby Hammond-Rye on April 11, 2017, 11:32:17 PM
Alex: Backing ALL of that!
Title: Re: Denizens of Azor: The Princess & the Queen, new sculpts by Kev White
Post by: tjgreenway on April 12, 2017, 06:43:13 AM
Having recently discovered your line of miniatures, it's great to see such big plans going forward - they really are gorgeous, can't wait to put an order in soon and take my Pulp gaming into a Lost World setting  :D
Title: Re: Denizens of Azor: The Princess & the Queen, new sculpts by Kev White
Post by: Dante904 on April 14, 2017, 06:22:10 PM
Awesome stuff. When and where will it be available?
Especially love the sisters. Kev always were my favorite sculptor :o
Title: Re: Denizens of Azor: The Princess & the Queen, new sculpts by Kev White
Post by: Alxbates on April 14, 2017, 09:34:43 PM
Awesome stuff. When and where will it be available?
Especially love the sisters. Kev always were my favorite sculptor :o

Dante - most of it is available right now!  Send me a message for more info.  I sell it directly in the US, and Fenris Games now carries my entire line for the UK and Europe.

The stuff that I described as "upcoming projects" should all be finished and available during the next year or year-and-a-half, depending on how things go.

As for the Queen and the Princess (mother and daughter, actually, not sisters), they are at the caster right now.  I'm having resin masters made, and I expect to sell some of those fairly soon to help defray the cost of the sculpts.  Kev is one of my favorite sculptors, too, and he does fantastic work - but commissioning him is a significant investment.

I'll probably have 10 or 12 of those resin masters available, but, the figures will see a wide release as part of a royal court set that I'll be releasing via Kickstarter this fall - those will be metal miniatures. The resin is a strictly super limited production thing.  Fenris might possibly have a few of the resin masters for sale at Salute, but, I'm not sure that the timing will work out for that.
Title: Re: Denizens of Azor: The Princess & the Queen, new sculpts by Kev White
Post by: von Lucky on April 14, 2017, 09:51:39 PM
Going through the last few pages I see you mentioned that it was a queen and princess, but I'm probably not the only one that got distracted by the beautiful miniatures in this thread.
Title: Re: Denizens of Azor: The Princess & the Queen, new sculpts by Kev White
Post by: Alxbates on April 15, 2017, 12:36:17 AM
Going through the last few pages I see you mentioned that it was a queen and princess, but I'm probably not the only one that got distracted by the beautiful miniatures in this thread.

Perfectly reasonable, in my opinion lol
Title: Re: Denizens of Azor: The Princess & the Queen, new sculpts by Kev White
Post by: Ballardian on April 15, 2017, 04:10:29 PM
The complete Azor campaign set sounds great (along with memories of those early WFR scenario boxes).
Title: Re: Denizens of Azor: The Princess & the Queen, new sculpts by Kev White
Post by: wulfgar22 on April 15, 2017, 06:50:45 PM
Fenris Games now carries my entire line for the UK and Europe.

This is good news!
Title: Re: Denizens of Azor: The Princess & the Queen, new sculpts by Kev White
Post by: Alxbates on May 02, 2017, 07:45:31 AM
Ian at Fenris tells me that the Queen and the Princess both sold out almost immediately in the morning at Salute.

I hope to see some painted photos of them very soon!

I still haven't seen the sculpts in person yet!
Title: Re: Denizens of Azor: The Princess & the Queen, new sculpts by Kev White
Post by: Hobby Services on May 02, 2017, 11:48:26 PM
I'm not surprised.  Kev White sculpts are guaranteed sellers.
Title: Re: Denizens of Azor: The Princess & the Queen, new sculpts by Kev White
Post by: Alxbates on May 25, 2017, 01:26:56 PM
(http://i.imgur.com/2QtyXmW.jpg)

They're HEEEEEEEeeeeere!

I'll be releasing the Queen and the Princess in metal via Kickstarter this fall, but, for now, I have a handful of resin castings on hand.

I'm putting seven of each up for sale right now - $25 per figure, ($50 for the two of them).  I haven't advertised them on the FB page, I figured I'd let the people here and on a couple of other forums know first.

First come first serve, send me a PM here if you're interested!

-Alex
Title: Re: Denizens of Azor: The Princess & the Queen, new sculpts by Kev White
Post by: ShortscaleDave on May 25, 2017, 09:52:43 PM
Easily some of my fave recent kev white ladies, but I may be biased. The casting is superb too.
Title: Re: Denizens of Azor: The Princess & the Queen, new sculpts by Kev White
Post by: d phipps on May 25, 2017, 11:43:44 PM
Fantastic! Another great addition to your amazing range of figures.  :-*
Title: Re: Denizens of Azor: The Princess & the Queen, new sculpts by Kev White
Post by: PaintsByNumbers on June 04, 2017, 10:03:33 PM
Do you cast in metal or resin?
How about putting the pictures on one of the sites like Picassaweb?
FB ie evil, don't use it.
Title: Re: Denizens of Azor: The Princess & the Queen, new sculpts by Kev White
Post by: Alxbates on June 10, 2017, 04:56:48 AM
Do you cast in metal or resin?
How about putting the pictures on one of the sites like Picassaweb?
FB ie evil, don't use it.

Nearly everything that I make is cast in metal.  I have a handful of terrain items in resin, and recently the Queen and the Princess had a very limited number cast in resin.  I *might* start making short runs of resin figures in addition to the metal releases in the future, but, personally, I prefer metal figures.  Having a second set of molds made is an added expense and hassle that I'm not yet convinced is worth the effort.

I'm not ruling it out, but I'm not committing to it either.

So, for me, for the foreseeable future, most of my figure releases will be in metal, and most of my terrain will be in resin.

There's something like a billion people on Facebook - I figure that's a good sized percentage of humanity who can easily and conveniently look at my stuff.

But, for people who don't want to get on FB, I have this thread here.  I keep a current product and price list posted in the bazaar section, too, specifically for non-Facebook users to view.

http://leadadventureforum.com/index.php?topic=76128.msg931070

Of course, that'll all be moot once I get my website up and running.  Someday.  Eventually  :D
Title: Re: Denizens of Azor: Spearwoman with little Pterosaur
Post by: Alxbates on June 10, 2017, 05:38:39 AM
Every time I think, "OK, that's it, no more naked chick miniatures!  I've got enough!", it turns out that I thought wrong.

So, here's another figure coming from Kev White, a spearwoman holding a little Pterosaur in her hand.

(http://i.imgur.com/4btydVE.jpg)

(http://i.imgur.com/3DlKeUL.jpg)

Much like the Queen and the Princess, I'm having a few made in resin, but the main release will be in metal.  She should be available very soon, the photo above is of one of the resin castings. 
Title: Re: Denizens of Azor: The Princess & the Queen, new sculpts by Kev White
Post by: Sterling Moose on June 10, 2017, 12:03:42 PM
Lovely figure!
Title: Re: Denizens of Azor: The Princess & the Queen, new sculpts by Kev White
Post by: Andym on June 10, 2017, 01:46:10 PM
Cracking sculpt! 8)
Title: Re: Denizens of Azor: The Princess & the Queen, new sculpts by Kev White
Post by: pistolpete on June 10, 2017, 04:32:20 PM
That's a fantastic sculpt.  Having several hasslefree figures i can testify kev's work is superb.
Title: Re: Denizens of Azor: The Princess & the Queen, new sculpts by Kev White
Post by: Hobby Services on June 10, 2017, 05:55:47 PM
Lovely.  Think I might retask her for scifi, with the weapon swapped for something more techie and Pterry as a xenocritter.  Rogue Stars has me wanting to do a scifi beastmaster crew.
Title: Re: Denizens of Azor: The Princess & the Queen, new sculpts by Kev White
Post by: Alxbates on June 10, 2017, 10:23:57 PM
Lovely.  Think I might retask her for scifi, with the weapon swapped for something more techie and Pterry as a xenocritter.  Rogue Stars has me wanting to do a scifi beastmaster crew.

Ooh, that sounds cool!  I'd love to see that conversion!
Title: Re: Denizens of Azor: The Princess & the Queen, new sculpts by Kev White
Post by: Alxbates on June 17, 2017, 06:10:24 AM
Andrew Taylor just finished some fantastic paint jobs on a few Azor minis.

The Cyclops!

(http://i.imgur.com/7oHCmY3.jpg)

The Man-Ape!

(http://i.imgur.com/wl2voQS.jpg)

The Man-Ape is sold as one figure, you get two arm and two head options with him.

(http://i.imgur.com/J6pcFnd.jpg)
(http://i.imgur.com/hYOFhPT.jpg)

And two of my Okroi (the name is from a corrupted form of Greek, 'Okroi' is plural, 'Okros' is singular.  Many names in Azor follow this convention;  many do not.)

(http://i.imgur.com/0b3ZLK8.jpg)

They also come with two bits of baggage - okroi are semi-domesticated, and are used as mules (as well as food animals) by the humans in Azor.

(http://i.imgur.com/IZaCRGF.jpg)

Next up, I really need to start building some terrain!
Title: Re: Denizens of Azor: New painted stuff! Cyclops, Man-Ape, and Okroi!
Post by: Arundel on June 17, 2017, 02:03:04 PM
Stunning figures and paint jobs!  :o
Title: Re: Denizens of Azor: New painted stuff! Cyclops, Man-Ape, and Okroi!
Post by: d phipps on June 17, 2017, 06:54:35 PM
Fantastic!  :-*
Title: Re: Denizens of Azor: New painted stuff! Cyclops, Man-Ape, and Okroi!
Post by: Mason on June 17, 2017, 07:04:28 PM
Beautiful brushwork on some lovely figures.
 :-* :-*

I must dig my Okroi out of the leadpile as they need to join my merchant caravan.
 :D

Title: Re: Denizens of Azor: New painted stuff! Cyclops, Man-Ape, and Okroi!
Post by: Alxbates on July 30, 2017, 07:05:53 PM
A few new things to update on.

The Sirrush is still delayed at the caster  :/

I have a few castings of the resin spearwoman on hand - she's $20, but she'll be released in metal very soon, the metal version will probably be $8.  Super limited numbers of the resin version (around 10 last I checked), if you want one speak up now!

Next up, "Here Be Goblins" from Facebook painted up some of my peafowl, and they're gorgeous.  I feel the need to share the photos!

(http://i.imgur.com/VJcuULk.jpg)
(http://i.imgur.com/1TbHNCt.jpg)

Oakbound Studios took a bunch of my Saleesa and made a cool dungeon diorama with them - that statue is sculpted by hand, you'll have to ask Oakbound how he made it!

(http://i.imgur.com/ZWCQFZn.jpg)
(http://i.imgur.com/W4hLFe7.jpg)
(http://i.imgur.com/Z8X5X7g.jpg)

Pulp Alley is making some new cards featuring Forge of Ice creatures on them!  These should be available later this year, I think - keep an eye out on the Pulp Alley page for more info!

(http://i.imgur.com/UFzrbLb.jpg)

And, finally - here's a sneek peek at the painting that's going to be the cover piece for my next Kickstarter, "The Eye of the Cyclops"!

(http://i.imgur.com/EgH5i4w.jpg)

Artwork by Jeff Lafferty.
Title: Re: Denizens of Azor: New painted stuff! Cyclops, Man-Ape, and Okroi!
Post by: Wolf Girl on July 30, 2017, 11:35:46 PM
Looks awesome!  :-* :-*
Title: Re: Denizens of Azor: New painted stuff! Cyclops, Man-Ape, and Okroi!
Post by: von Lucky on July 31, 2017, 11:13:05 AM
OMG! They're lovely additions to this thread.
Title: Re: Denizens of Azor: New painted stuff! Cyclops, Man-Ape, and Okroi!
Post by: LeadAsbestos on July 31, 2017, 03:07:54 PM
Excited about the Cyclops KS. Hope it is proceeding nicely!
Title: Re: Denizens of Azor: New painted stuff! Cyclops, Man-Ape, and Okroi!
Post by: d phipps on July 31, 2017, 07:50:04 PM
Excited about the Cyclops KS. Hope it is proceeding nicely!

+1
Title: Re: Denizens of Azor: New painted stuff! Cyclops, Man-Ape, and Okroi!
Post by: Alxbates on August 01, 2017, 09:06:26 PM
Excited about the Cyclops KS. Hope it is proceeding nicely!

It's coming!  Soon!

Not as quickly as I'd like;  there have been some delays.

But it won't be like my first one, where I talked for like five years about running a Kickstarter before I finally got to it.

Hopefully I'll be launching by the end of August.
Title: Re: Denizens of Azor: New painted stuff! Lion Women and Lions!
Post by: Alxbates on August 15, 2017, 06:14:41 PM
More painted figures from the desk of Andrew Taylor!

(http://i.imgur.com/3PWUT2M.jpg)

(http://i.imgur.com/ccmIkMr.jpg)

Lions and lion women sculpted by Tre Manor.

Mosaic bases sculpted by Brian Roe!
Title: Re: Denizens of Azor: New painted stuff! Lion Women and Lions!
Post by: d phipps on August 16, 2017, 02:17:47 AM
Excellent! I think these ladies deserve some Pulp Alley character cards.  :D ;)
Title: Re: Denizens of Azor: New painted stuff! Lion Women and Lions!
Post by: Sir Barnaby Hammond-Rye on August 16, 2017, 03:31:07 AM
The Lion Women look great! Received my package, BTW. Thanks Again. Howard
Title: Re: Denizens of Azor: New painted stuff! Lion Women and Lions!
Post by: d phipps on August 16, 2017, 05:09:42 PM
Some new Pulp Alley character cards featuring some Forge of Ice miniatures. Figures painted by Andrew Taylor......

(http://i1337.photobucket.com/albums/o665/pulpalley/People%20and%20Places/Fan%20Games/FoI%2001_04_zpszngfoyt5.jpg)
Title: Re: Denizens of Azor: New painted stuff! Lion Women and Lions!
Post by: Alxbates on August 17, 2017, 12:19:06 AM
Those look fantastic David!
Title: Re: Denizens of Azor: New painted stuff! Lion Women and Lions!
Post by: Alxbates on September 12, 2017, 07:02:46 AM
I really need to start work on a big terrain display board - I've ordered some trees from China, I hope to have a nice little transportable display thing.

In other news, Dave Cauley is working on another piece for me, "The Crown of the First King":

(https://i.imgur.com/Q8g1ZCY.jpg)

Please disregard the Nurgle Guy to the far right - that's not for me!  You'll have to ask Dave what he's up to there :D
Title: Re: Denizens of Azor: New painted stuff! Lion Women and Lions!
Post by: DintheDin on September 12, 2017, 07:56:36 AM
Just caught up with this thread... Fantastic  :-* :-* :-*
Taking off hat and bowing with awe!
Title: Re: Denizens of Azor: New painted stuff! Lion Women and Lions!
Post by: orc on September 12, 2017, 12:30:52 PM
 :-* :-*  :-* o Alex man!! What you are doing with your brand is truly great!! I love it!!! I can't wait to see your Cyclop cultist ckicstsrter!! ;D
Title: Re: Denizens of Azor: New painted stuff! Lion Women and Lions!
Post by: d phipps on September 12, 2017, 05:26:20 PM
Looking awesome!
Title: Re: Denizens of Azor: New painted stuff! Lion Women and Lions!
Post by: dinohunterpoa on September 12, 2017, 08:29:40 PM
 :-* :-* :-* :-* :-*
Title: Re: Denizens of Azor: New painted stuff! Lion Women and Lions!
Post by: Alxbates on October 11, 2017, 02:41:55 PM
Andrew Taylor finished painting the Sirrush!

(https://i.imgur.com/6qiIaqd.jpg)

I still don't have any castings for sale (production delays), but I hope to very soon.

(https://i.imgur.com/hGi3M3l.jpg)

And Pennyfew Painting just a few minutes ago sent me these photos of my new Spearwoman painted!

(https://i.imgur.com/vwjhjkP.jpg)

I still have a handful of the resin master castings of the spearwoman left, and I expect to have her available in metal in a few weeks.

(https://i.imgur.com/puvbgie.jpg)

Pennyfew also finished the Winged Throne of Zor-Al, and Norbles, too!

(https://i.imgur.com/Wb9OiOV.jpg)

(https://i.imgur.com/YJwiufY.jpg)

(https://i.imgur.com/YuEYI2o.jpg)

Next up I really need to get started on that display board that I've been meaning to get to...

-Alex
Title: Re: Denizens of Azor: New painted stuff! Sirrush and Spearwoman!
Post by: Duke Donald on October 11, 2017, 04:35:24 PM
Nice!
Title: Re: Denizens of Azor: New painted stuff! Sirrush and Spearwoman!
Post by: d phipps on October 11, 2017, 07:34:01 PM
Fantastic work!  :-*
Title: Re: Denizens of Azor: New painted stuff! Sirrush and Spearwoman!
Post by: DintheDin on October 11, 2017, 07:55:28 PM
All so beautiful! So vivid colors!  :-* :-* :-*
Title: Re: Denizens of Azor: New painted stuff! Sirrush and Spearwoman!
Post by: Andym on October 12, 2017, 04:11:37 AM
Amazing colours on that Sirrush! :o
Title: Re: Denizens of Azor: New painted stuff! Sirrush and Spearwoman!
Post by: von Lucky on October 12, 2017, 08:31:06 AM
Oh my!
Title: Re: Denizens of Azor: New painted stuff! Sirrush and Spearwoman!
Post by: dinohunterpoa on October 12, 2017, 01:04:38 PM

Lovely spearwoman!  :-*
Title: Re: Denizens of Azor: New painted stuff! Sirrush and Spearwoman!
Post by: Alxbates on October 31, 2017, 03:25:58 PM
I'm getting a little self-conscious about this.  

I swear, when I started making miniatures, I had NO intention of making a bunch of naked women.  Really.  

But check out these new sculpts from Kev White - the Queen and the Princess on foot!  Perhaps somewhat more useful for gaming than the enthroned versions.

(https://i.imgur.com/h8RAkmL.jpg)

(https://i.imgur.com/PishDTv.jpg)

(https://i.imgur.com/dKRBIg6.jpg)

(https://i.imgur.com/JdSmKnM.jpg)

So, after these two I have ONE more topless woman planned - the High Priestess of the Snake Cult (I think that people are going to love the design I'm working on), then after that, everyone gets clothes!  

... for awhile at least!

Just like the enthroned versions, I expect to sell a super limited number of these in resin, then they'll see a regular release in metal via Kickstarter, likely early next year.
Title: Re: Denizens of Azor: New Kev White sculpts - Lost World Princess & Queen on foot!
Post by: FramFramson on October 31, 2017, 04:15:11 PM
Wicked cool.
Title: Re: Denizens of Azor: New Kev White sculpts - Lost World Princess & Queen on foot!
Post by: Ogrob on October 31, 2017, 04:30:07 PM
I love the crowned giant ape skull, saw the finished one on Facebook. It is a must for my Ghost Archipelago islands I feel.

As for the naked women, while I'm normally not a fan, yours are probably the best out there. It's pretty clear that the intention is not just cheap objectification.
Title: Re: Denizens of Azor: New Kev White sculpts - Lost World Princess & Queen on foot!
Post by: d phipps on October 31, 2017, 04:38:46 PM
Excellent work!  :-*
Title: Re: Denizens of Azor: New Kev White sculpts - Lost World Princess & Queen on foot!
Post by: von Lucky on October 31, 2017, 08:40:55 PM
As for the naked women, while I'm normally not a fan, yours are probably the best out there. It's pretty clear that the intention is not just cheap objectification.

Agree, and the unique faces of each sister is one I like too (i.e. the same sculpt wasn't created).
Title: Re: Denizens of Azor: New Kev White sculpts - Lost World Princess & Queen on foot!
Post by: Hobby Services on October 31, 2017, 10:08:40 PM
Glad to see you got Kev White on these, he's really tops when it comes to sculpting the female form (draped or not).  Is he doing the high priestess as well?
Title: Re: Denizens of Azor: New Kev White sculpts - Lost World Princess & Queen on foot!
Post by: Andym on November 01, 2017, 04:33:01 AM
As for the naked women, while I'm normally not a fan, yours are probably the best out there. It's pretty clear that the intention is not just cheap objectification.

Agreed! Do you not think one of them looks like Heather Locklear?

Cracking sculpts! 8)
Title: Re: Denizens of Azor: New Kev White sculpts - Lost World Princess & Queen on foot!
Post by: Alxbates on November 01, 2017, 06:15:31 PM
Glad to see you got Kev White on these, he's really tops when it comes to sculpting the female form (draped or not).  Is he doing the high priestess as well?

I don't have a specific sculptor lined up -- yet!  But Kev is a strong possibility, I think.  He's great to work with.  Top bloke.
Title: Re: Denizens of Azor: New Kev White sculpts - Lost World Princess & Queen on foot!
Post by: dinohunterpoa on November 02, 2017, 01:03:59 PM

Lovely!!!  :-* :-* :-* :-* :-*
Title: Re: Denizens of Azor: New Kev White sculpts - Lost World Princess & Queen on foot!
Post by: Alxbates on November 18, 2017, 08:08:22 AM
Here are some photos that I haven't posted here yet!  Most of them are in my instagram (@Forgeofice), but I try to keep this thread updated specifically for people who aren't on Facebook or Instagram, so, hopefully they're new to you!

The initial castings of the Crown of the First King have begun at Fenris in the UK.  Ian and I should both hopefully have it for sale before Christmas.

(https://i.imgur.com/KqTANF5.jpg)

Dave Cauley has finished sculpting some prehistoric creepy crawlies - trilobites and a horseshoe crab.

(https://i.imgur.com/alwFVjb.jpg)

Shellfish and arthropods of all sorts are common in the waterways of Azor; the swamps and lakes are abundant with them. A common food source and occasional nuisance to aquatic navigation, some of them can defend themselves with poisonous stings or a nasty bite. Others rely on their hard shells for protection.

(https://i.imgur.com/6P07wbg.jpg)

Michael Raverdino in France has painted up some of my figures and they turned out GREAT.  I saw some of his work elsewhere and decided that I had to see what he'd do with some Azor figures, and he did not disappoint!

(https://i.imgur.com/pIieLPP.jpg)

(https://i.imgur.com/qJurrfV.jpg)

(https://i.imgur.com/xKLOjtS.jpg)

There was also an annual event at the university here - "Pop Con".  It's a fun event.  I never sell anything (college kids being broke and all!), but there are so few events like this here in the middle of Alaska that I think it's important to show up to support it.  And I'm kind of a recluse these days - it's cool to get in touch with the local nerd community.  Fun costumes, cool food vendors, it's a good way to spend a weekend.

(https://i.imgur.com/XDhPrKK.jpg)

I am not even remotely as cheerful as I look in that photo - I way overslept and was super disorganized!  It took me the whole first day to really get my bearings.

But, this is what my setup looks like when I go to events.  High on the to-do list is actual real packaging and some sort of transportable pegboard for me to hang blister packs from.  Ziploc baggies have been fine (and cheap!) so far, but I'm getting to a point where upgrading seems more like a requirement than an option.

Here are some of the figures for my upcoming Eye of the Cyclops set:

(https://i.imgur.com/gDdIJS2.jpg)

It's really rare that I get all my painted figures out at the same time - at home I generally keep them in storage cases.  This is the first time I've had so many all out at once, so I had to snap some photos of the contents of my display cases.

(https://i.imgur.com/1B6xlYi.jpg)

(https://i.imgur.com/3ss0xno.jpg)

Man, the Sirrush just dominates everything.  

I'll mention that I do have castings of the Sirrush in hand and for sale now - it's $50 for the creature.  Shoot me a PM or an email (Alxbates AT yahoo DOT com) if you'd like one.  There are about 50 castings in existence, and once the resins are gone they'll be gone forever.

-Alex
Title: Re: Denizens of Azor: Prehistoric bugs, giant crowned gorilla skull & more!
Post by: von Lucky on November 18, 2017, 08:52:13 AM
Ermahgerd - lovely stuff.
Title: Re: Denizens of Azor: Prehistoric bugs, giant crowned gorilla skull & more!
Post by: Arundel on November 18, 2017, 02:31:08 PM
Your stuff is always inspirational, Alex! I love them all, and snaps to you for attending the university event in spite of, erm, lackluster sales. You're a good chap.

Also, fun to see a photo of you - in this day of electronic communication it can be fun to put a face to a name. Keep up the great work!

Daryl
Title: Re: Denizens of Azor: Prehistoric bugs, giant crowned gorilla skull & more!
Post by: dinohunterpoa on November 18, 2017, 10:14:54 PM
AWESOME!!!  :-* :-* :-* :-* :-*

I really do like the idea of a series of "encounter sets" for RPGs and tabletop games, CONGRATULATIONS!!!  ;)

(https://saneteachers.files.wordpress.com/2015/12/1508162_471028019730233_202295764181390168_n.png)
Title: Re: Denizens of Azor: Prehistoric bugs, giant crowned gorilla skull & more!
Post by: Hobby Services on November 18, 2017, 10:45:28 PM
Fantastic stuff as always.  The skull piece has me thinking, have you considered doing a (very large) mini for the living version of the King?  Maybe with variant heads with and without crown?  That would be pretty cool.
Title: Re: Denizens of Azor: Prehistoric bugs, giant crowned gorilla skull & more!
Post by: Alxbates on November 18, 2017, 11:36:56 PM
Fantastic stuff as always.  The skull piece has me thinking, have you considered doing a (very large) mini for the living version of the King?  Maybe with variant heads with and without crown?  That would be pretty cool.

Mmmmmmmaybe...

Maybe I've already got concept art done, too...
Title: Re: Denizens of Azor: Prehistoric bugs, giant crowned gorilla skull & more!
Post by: Captain Blood on November 19, 2017, 12:15:58 AM
Great stuff Alex, that looks like a very professional set-up.
And you do look remarkably cheery for a man whose mind is adrift in the Stygian labyrinth of a Lemurian netherworld  ;)
Title: Re: Denizens of Azor: Prehistoric bugs, giant crowned gorilla skull & more!
Post by: Hobby Services on November 19, 2017, 12:41:15 AM
Mmmmmmmaybe...

Maybe I've already got concept art done, too...

Needs an attractive blonde to obsess over - better get Kev sculpting her.  :)
Title: Re: Denizens of Azor: Prehistoric bugs, giant crowned gorilla skull & more!
Post by: orc on November 21, 2017, 03:01:23 AM
Great Stuff Alex :-* :-* :-*!!! I can't wait to see what can bring us the 'Eye of the Cyclops' and these encounters set >:(!!! Any idea when you are going ahead with you Kickstarter?? ::)
Title: Re: Denizens of Azor: Prehistoric bugs, giant crowned gorilla skull & more!
Post by: Alxbates on November 21, 2017, 08:23:06 AM
Great Stuff Alex :-* :-* :-*!!! I can't wait to see what can bring us the 'Eye of the Cyclops' and these encounters set >:(!!! Any idea when you are going ahead with you Kickstarter?? ::)

Pfft... maaaaaaaan, I dunno.  At this point, the cover artist is so late finishing that dang cover painting that I don't know.  I had hoped to launch it this summer, but, at this point, maybe January or February?  Nearly all of the miniatures are sculpted, most of the background book is written, all that I need to do on my end of things is draw the map and get the booklet laid out.

But the cover art is such a big part of things I don't want to launch the KS without it being finished.

That's partly why I've been having figures like the Queen and the Princess sculpted, I want to be ready to launch the Royal Court campaign encounter set immediately after the Eye of the Cyclops is finished with fulfillment, and that's something that I can get done now.  I've approached an artist who is well known for his work on Edgar Rice Burroughs properties (Tarzan, Pellucidar, John Carter of Mars, etc) for the cover art for that one - I anticipate a much smoother process for the art there.

-Alex
Title: Re: Denizens of Azor: Prehistoric bugs, giant crowned gorilla skull & more!
Post by: Codsticker on November 21, 2017, 03:58:47 PM
I really like your terrain features- some great stuff!
Title: Re: Denizens of Azor: Prehistoric bugs, giant crowned gorilla skull & more!
Post by: Alxbates on November 21, 2017, 04:59:43 PM
Several people have asked about this, so I've updated my product and price list to include photos!  No more digging through years of old forum posts to find out what my stuff all looks like!

http://leadadventureforum.com/index.php?topic=76128.msg931070#msg931070
Title: Re: Denizens of Azor: Prehistoric bugs, giant crowned gorilla skull & more!
Post by: Alxbates on December 06, 2017, 07:19:15 AM
Matt Gubser has been working on not one, but TWO more Man-Ape sculpts for me!

(https://i.imgur.com/ZFhAZWr.jpg)

Both of these sculpts, like the original Man-Ape, have a separate right arm that fits on any of the three bodies.  There's a new head, too, so that makes three heads, three bodies, and three right arm options.  You can now make a unit with some variety, although in Azor these are very rare beings and you would be unlikely to encounter more than two or three at once.

(https://i.imgur.com/ogqztT7.jpg)

(https://i.imgur.com/zdMy8QN.jpg)

(https://i.imgur.com/zmAp39N.jpg)

(https://i.imgur.com/hKx7tX1.jpg)

These sculpts are at the caster right now (along with a few other things...), and they'll be available for purchase probably right after Christmas, I think.

-Alex
Title: Re: Denizens of Azor: THE MIGHTY MAN-APE RETURNS!!
Post by: DintheDin on December 06, 2017, 08:12:51 AM
Really awesome sculpts!!! When painted, they'll look terrific! Cheers!
Title: Re: Denizens of Azor: THE MIGHTY MAN-APE RETURNS!!
Post by: Panama on December 06, 2017, 10:05:15 AM
That's an a amazing bit of work  :)
Title: Re: Denizens of Azor: THE MIGHTY MAN-APE RETURNS!!
Post by: Arundel on December 06, 2017, 01:19:04 PM
Those look smashing, Alex. Can't wait to see them painted!
Title: Re: Denizens of Azor: THE MIGHTY MAN-APE RETURNS!!
Post by: d phipps on December 06, 2017, 02:16:02 PM
Fantastic!
Title: Re: Denizens of Azor: THE MIGHTY MAN-APE RETURNS!!
Post by: von Lucky on December 07, 2017, 08:34:51 AM
That last one has a lovely dynamic pose.
Title: Re: Denizens of Azor: THE MIGHTY MAN-APE RETURNS!!
Post by: Alxbates on December 29, 2017, 11:04:43 AM
Still plugging away at the contents of the Eye of the Cyclops Kickstarter - here's the cult leader and the Eye itself, painted by Pennyfew Painting.

(https://i.imgur.com/CAa9HLK.jpg)

(https://i.imgur.com/bQXfixm.jpg)

(https://i.imgur.com/6lVTMoo.jpg)

(https://i.imgur.com/7FZnUvt.jpg)

The Trilobites & horseshoe crab are at the caster now, I should have those available in a month or so.
Title: Re: Denizens of Azor: THE MIGHTY MAN-APE RETURNS!!
Post by: DintheDin on December 29, 2017, 11:25:11 AM
Fantastic color combination! Perfect! Cheers!
Title: Re: Denizens of Azor: THE MIGHTY MAN-APE RETURNS!!
Post by: Duke Donald on December 29, 2017, 01:49:14 PM
Brilliant new additions to a fantastic line on minis!
Title: Re: Denizens of Azor: THE MIGHTY MAN-APE RETURNS!!
Post by: d phipps on December 29, 2017, 06:48:05 PM
Fantastic!  ;)
Title: Re: Denizens of Azor: Painted Queen & Princess, plus critters and a book!
Post by: Alxbates on January 29, 2018, 04:11:50 PM
Roy Duffy of Duff Paint just did an amazing job on the Queen (Name Not Determined Yet) and Princess Amal-Tea.

(https://i.imgur.com/dhjK7IX.jpg)

(https://i.imgur.com/ZCJhIOm.jpg)

The Queen's makeup is inspired by historical Anatolian face paint like this Helen of Troy here:

(https://i.imgur.com/vPSC0PH.jpg)

And Dave Cauley's trilobites & critters have been mastered, production molds are at the caster now, I should have them for sale in a few weeks.

(https://i.imgur.com/cvU7el6.jpg)

(https://i.imgur.com/g0LgD4Y.jpg)

And I'm really, really excited to show off this mock-up of my very first printed material for Azor, the Eye of the Cyclops game booklet.

The artist (I found a new one!) assures me that the cover painting - a physical oil painting - will be finished by the end of February, so, I can launch the Eye of the Cyclops KS in March.  You're seeing it here first!  I'm a little apprehensive about posting this publicly as I'm afraid of jinxing it, but Didier Normand has so far been doing a great job with this piece and I just couldn't wait any longer to show it off.

(https://i.imgur.com/AUVtNBj.jpg)

I know that I've really been in need of some printed material (yeah, it'll be available as a .pdf, too) to flesh out the setting & background a little bit, so this will be the first taste of what I hope to be a series of sourcebooks for Azor.
Title: Re: Denizens of Azor: Painted Queen & Princess, plus critters and art!
Post by: d phipps on January 29, 2018, 05:50:07 PM
Fantastic!  :-*
Title: Re: Denizens of Azor: Painted Queen & Princess, plus critters and art!
Post by: Sir Barnaby Hammond-Rye on January 30, 2018, 12:02:51 AM
Looks Great!  :)
Title: Re: Denizens of Azor: Painted Queen & Princess, plus critters and art!
Post by: Dr Mathias on January 30, 2018, 03:14:13 AM
That's a seriously impressive update!

I love that you're so dedicated to 'doing it right' by commissioning an oil painting in the style that suits the miniatures perfectly. Frazetta would be proud of you I think!
Title: Re: Denizens of Azor: Painted Queen & Princess, plus critters and art!
Post by: Alxbates on January 31, 2018, 03:01:13 AM
That's a seriously impressive update!

I love that you're so dedicated to 'doing it right' by commissioning an oil painting in the style that suits the miniatures perfectly. Frazetta would be proud of you I think!

Thank you!

Sometimes I worry that my preferred styles for things are woefully outdated, so it's good to know that at least a few other people like it as much as I do!

Title: Re: Denizens of Azor: Painted Queen & Princess, plus critters and art!
Post by: uti long smile on January 31, 2018, 07:52:47 AM
That’s great!
Title: Re: Denizens of Azor: Painted Queen & Princess, plus critters and art!
Post by: Anselm van Helsing on January 31, 2018, 11:09:14 AM
Excellent minis & paintjobs. Might need to get some of these. Following.
Title: Re: Denizens of Azor: Painted Queen & Princess, plus critters and art!
Post by: von Lucky on January 31, 2018, 12:42:18 PM
I am a follower of this cult.
Title: Re: Denizens of Azor: Painted Queen & Princess, plus critters and art!
Post by: LeadAsbestos on January 31, 2018, 11:48:01 PM
Sometimes I worry that my preferred styles for things are woefully outdated, so it's good to know that at least a few other people like it as much as I do!

Nonsense! Carefully crafted and well-done never go out of style!

This is your quote that made me decide we are long lost brothers:
I like tough, badass women, I like Pulp art, I like Minoan Crete and ancient Greece and ancient Egypt, and I like boobs.  I don't think that those interests are mutually exclusive.

 :) ;)
Title: Re: Denizens of Azor: Painted Queen & Princess, plus critters and art!
Post by: dinohunterpoa on February 01, 2018, 12:12:32 AM

I like tough, badass women, I like Pulp art, I like Minoan Crete and ancient Greece and ancient Egypt, and I like boobs. 


+1 !!! :D
Title: Re: Denizens of Azor: Painted Queen & Princess, plus critters and art!
Post by: Stu on February 01, 2018, 04:11:26 AM

I like tough, badass women, I like Pulp art, I like Minoan Crete and ancient Greece and ancient Egypt, and I like boobs.  I don't think that those interests are mutually exclusive.

 :) ;)
Hallelujah! Brother! Say it like is!
Title: Re: Denizens of Azor: Painted Queen & Princess, plus critters and art!
Post by: Panama on February 01, 2018, 04:12:47 PM
Fantastic work : )
Title: Re: Denizens of Azor: Painted Queen & Princess, plus critters and art!
Post by: Alxbates on February 02, 2018, 10:37:34 PM
Nonsense! Carefully crafted and well-done never go out of style!

This is your quote that made me decide we are long lost brothers:
I like tough, badass women, I like Pulp art, I like Minoan Crete and ancient Greece and ancient Egypt, and I like boobs.  I don't think that those interests are mutually exclusive.

 :) ;)

*Solidarity*, my friend! Solidarity!
Title: Re: Denizens of Azor: Painted Queen & Princess, plus critters and art!
Post by: Alxbates on February 03, 2018, 06:53:12 AM
Couple of things - first up, Pennyfew Painting is working on putting some paint on my mummies.

The figures in this set are some of my more unusual figures. Sculpted by Tyson Rhody, this is a true 25mm scale sculpt. It matches well with old school Cthulhu ranges such as Grenadier or RAFM, but it's a little small next to most modern ranges or almost everything else in my range.

At the time I had a slightly different idea for the direction I wanted to go with my Azor stuff - the four possessed mummies were incubating slug-like parasites in a symbiotic relationship with a species of plant, 'The Corpse Root', that animates corpses & uses them to spread the seed/egg sacs of the slugs & plants. I think I may have been inspired somewhat by 'Khai of Khem' by Brian Lumley, and also the desire to have some weird Mythos-style mummies around.  Since then my plans and releases have been a little more grounded, the possessed mummies are a little too far off from what I envision for Azor at this time.  But, who knows, I might revisit them again someday, have them resculpted a little larger or with some slight differences or something.

I've kinda dropped the idea for now, but I'm still quite fond of the sculpts, and I thought that Pennyfew's style was a perfect fit. There are three more in the set, painted pics of them coming soon! 

(https://i.imgur.com/UnBigYi.jpg)
Title: Re: Denizens of Azor: Painted Queen & Princess, plus critters and art!
Post by: Alxbates on February 03, 2018, 07:36:58 AM
And secondly, I have some resin master castings of the Queen and Princess on foot for sale.

Nine of each.

(https://i.imgur.com/Z9Fleem.jpg)

That's it for now - they'll see a regular release in metal this fall some time via Kickstarter, so if you want a resin copy, or if you don't want to wait eight months to get one, send me an email at Alxbates@yahoo.com.

Please don't PM me about it, send an email.  

They're $20 each, and when they're gone, they're gone forever.  The molds are worn out, and these figures won't be cast in resin again.  First come, first serve.  

Fenris Games in the UK has five of each (I think, I'm not sure exactly how many he has left at the time of this writing), so, if you're not in the US and want to avoid paying international shipping, contact Ian there, he'll be happy to sell them to you.

(And just so you don't have to scroll back who knows how many pages, here are the original sculpts to refresh your memory on what they look like:)

(https://i.imgur.com/PishDTv.jpg)

(https://i.imgur.com/h8RAkmL.jpg)

I haven't posted these to Facebook or any other pages yet (I will later this weekend).  I wanted to give the LAF the first chance to snag them, since the community here has been so supportive and encouraging.  I very nearly quit and shut things down a few months ago; the kind words and comments here have always been a big boost for me when I've needed one.

Thank you all for your support, hopefully this coming year brings bigger and better things!

-Alex
Title: Re: Denizens of Azor: Limited resin castings of the Queen & Princess on foot!
Post by: dinohunterpoa on February 03, 2018, 12:29:53 PM

 :-* :-* :-* :-* :-*
Title: Re: Denizens of Azor: Limited resin castings of the Queen & Princess on foot!
Post by: LeadAsbestos on February 03, 2018, 01:52:16 PM
They are gorgeous!
Title: Re: Denizens of Azor: Limited resin castings of the Queen & Princess on foot!
Post by: DintheDin on February 03, 2018, 01:59:29 PM
Blow me down! :-*
Title: Re: Denizens of Azor: Limited resin castings of the Queen & Princess on foot!
Post by: d phipps on February 03, 2018, 09:31:38 PM
Damn fine work!  :-*
Title: Re: Denizens of Azor: Limited resin castings of the Queen & Princess on foot!
Post by: Alxbates on February 07, 2018, 08:49:04 AM
I've got one of each left of the Queen and Princess on foot!

Thanks to everyone for the orders - this allows me to defray the sculpting and mold making costs a lot earlier than I'd be able to otherwise.

I'm a one-man amateur operation, so every bit helps.
Title: Re: Denizens of Azor: Limited resin castings of the Queen & Princess on foot!
Post by: von Lucky on February 11, 2018, 03:32:15 AM
You're far from amateur.

What's the latest date on the Kickstarter? I understand there's a few things you have to work out (I just want to make sure I don't miss an opportunity).
Title: Re: Denizens of Azor: Limited resin castings of the Queen & Princess on foot!
Post by: Alxbates on February 11, 2018, 12:00:40 PM
You're far from amateur.

Well, thanks.  I definitely know more now than I did when I first started, but I see all the other cool stuff out there and I certainly *feel* like an amateur.  I'm still slowly plugging away at getting a website working... once that's finally finished and up and running, I'm sure I'll feel a lot more like a real business!

Quote
What's the latest date on the Kickstarter? I understand there's a few things you have to work out (I just want to make sure I don't miss an opportunity).

I'm hoping to launch the Eye of the Cyclops Kickstarter in a few weeks, maybe mid-March.

Here's a peek at the cover art with the logo and colors roughed in with photoshop.

(https://i.imgur.com/cJFGS3B.jpg)

The logo will be aged a bit to match the oil painting once the art is finished.  I'll stress that this is just a color test, the actual piece of art is a physical painting being painted by an artist in France.  If things work out with him, I hope to have him do at least two or three other paintings for me.  I might even put a little logo in the corner, like the old Savage Sword of Conan magazines that I used to love so much.

The painting is on track to be done in a couple of weeks, I expect to launch the KS within a week or two of it being finished.

I'll be posting updates here, Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, a couple of other forums (TMP for sure, maybe Frothers and TWW).  Hopefully that'll get the word out!  Once it launches, you can help by sharing links to it on your own various media pages.  If this one goes well, it'll make the royal court set happen more quickly, and then on to the projects I have planned after that!

-Alex
Title: Re: Denizens of Azor: Limited resin castings of the Queen & Princess on foot!
Post by: LeadAsbestos on February 11, 2018, 01:42:43 PM
Yes! Excited abt this one!
Title: Re: Denizens of Azor: Limited resin castings of the Queen & Princess on foot!
Post by: Alxbates on February 24, 2018, 07:29:05 PM
Andrew Taylor and Pennyfew Painting are working on some non-Kickstarter stuff for me:

(https://i.imgur.com/KrY09k1.jpg)

The critter swarm is finished - and available for sale now for $7 for the set - they're all individual pieces, but, since I'm selling them as a set I asked Andy to put them all on the same base.

Swamp scorpion - multipart metal model:

(https://i.imgur.com/BjwNwR8.jpg)

(https://i.imgur.com/7EJoSfI.jpg)

An Okros faun!

And the full set of tentacled mummies!

(https://i.imgur.com/J1CzQZr.jpg)

Title: Re: Denizens of Azor: Limited resin castings of the Queen & Princess on foot!
Post by: d phipps on February 24, 2018, 09:14:38 PM
Excellent work!  :-*
Title: Re: Denizens of Azor: Limited resin castings of the Queen & Princess on foot!
Post by: von Lucky on February 25, 2018, 08:02:40 AM
I'm itching to grab something from your lovely range.
Title: Re: Denizens of Azor: Limited resin castings of the Queen & Princess on foot!
Post by: Alxbates on February 25, 2018, 09:29:14 AM
I'm itching to grab something from your lovely range.

Grab sooner rather than later - I'm going to have to raise some of my prices fairly soon (I probably should have last November...)!
Title: Re: Denizens of Azor: Limited resin castings of the Queen & Princess on foot!
Post by: Sinewgrab on February 25, 2018, 03:22:40 PM
To be honest, I am waiting for the the Queen and Princess to be available as both throne and foot in metal, and I will likely be all over a fair sized order. Gotta add to the pile.

Title: Re: Denizens of Azor: Limited resin castings of the Queen & Princess on foot!
Post by: von Lucky on February 26, 2018, 11:42:56 AM
Alex - you need to update the URL in your signiature - I'm starting to circle like a great white around a surfer.
Title: Re: Denizens of Azor: Limited resin castings of the Queen & Princess on foot!
Post by: Alxbates on February 27, 2018, 01:57:24 AM
Alex - you need to update the URL in your signiature - I'm starting to circle like a great white around a surfer.

Ooh, thanks! Good catch! 
Title: Re: Denizens of Azor: Limited resin castings of the Queen & Princess on foot!
Post by: Alxbates on March 02, 2018, 11:01:28 PM
(https://i.imgur.com/ZtSlHxp.jpg)

Oh man!

We're getting close!

I think I might be able to launch the new Kickstarter next week - I just have a handful of ducks left to get in a row.  I fly out to Gary Con ten in the middle of next week... I'm not sure if it'll be better to launch the KS before I leave so I can promote it all weekend at the con, or, if I'm better off waiting till I get home so I can administrate it a little more easily.

Also, here's a look a the metal Sirrush - it's $70, but it's a pound of metal.

(https://i.imgur.com/OrLNBWy.jpg)

I have six of them left - I can have more made fairly easily, but, since it's so heavy and pricey to make, I'm only going to run small batches.  If you like old school metal critters, this is the beast for you!
Title: Re: Denizens of Azor: Metal Sirrush & Eye of the Cyclops KS coming soon
Post by: Lost Egg on March 03, 2018, 08:42:11 AM
Cool news, I'm looking forward to checking the campaign out.
Title: Re: Denizens of Azor: Eye of the Cyclops Kickstarter preview
Post by: Alxbates on June 12, 2018, 12:08:06 AM
Eesh, it's been a little while since I've checked in.  I've been working on getting more stuff finished for the game booklet - I *think* I'm going to be able to launch the Kickstarter this week... or maybe next week.  I'm probably overthinking things again!

This is very nearly the final cover for the book - there may be some small tweaks here and there, but this is pretty much it.  Painting by Didier Normand, graphic design and logos by Brian Roe:

(https://i.imgur.com/PkJlEYi.jpg)

Looks like it's going to come in at about 30 pages, it's a guide on the history and practices of the Cyclops Cult, along with a bit of an overview of Azor, and a short multi-encounter campaign with the Cult as the opponent.

This is the sort of game book that I always wanted - light on rules, heavy on backstory.  It's system agnostic (I'm serious when I say light on rules - when I play RPG's I truly believe that the system doesn't matter very much), with only a few charts and tables explicitly spelled out. 

(https://i.imgur.com/EBcgnUB.png)

I'm trying to get as many illustrations together as I can - mostly by Jesse Switters, but a few by me (and maybe one or two by other people), I like my game books to have lots of pictures, and I've got a few things lined up as stretch goals - shields, a pet lizard, a little pile of sacrificial skulls, a female guard captain.  Maybe even a big map if things go crazy!

(https://i.imgur.com/vGRpzOn.jpg)

These are just previews, these pieces of art are finished.  I'll be posting the finished art as the campaign progresses.  Gotta have fodder for regular updates!

I think I've already shown photos of the minis, but all the main minis in the campaign have already been sculpted, most of them have been molded and cast, too.

(https://i.imgur.com/CAa9HLK.jpg)

That's the current high priest of the cult, and the cult's most sacred treasure - the Eye of the Cyclops, a huge gem reputed to have hypnotic powers, socketed into the skull of an ancient cyclops..
Title: Re: Denizens of Azor: Eye of the Cyclops Kickstarter preview
Post by: orc on June 12, 2018, 06:33:41 AM
 :-* :-* :-* I can't wait... >:(very promising !!!
Title: Re: Denizens of Azor: Eye of the Cyclops Kickstarter preview
Post by: Lost Egg on June 12, 2018, 07:36:35 AM
Very cool, I particularly like the illustrations of the guards.
Title: Re: Denizens of Azor: Eye of the Cyclops Kickstarter preview
Post by: d phipps on June 12, 2018, 01:24:11 PM
Fantastic!  :-*
Title: Re: Denizens of Azor: Eye of the Cyclops Kickstarter preview
Post by: Alxbates on June 17, 2018, 06:27:28 AM
And the Kickstarter is live!  About 70% funded on day one!

Check it out, share the link, tell your friends :)

https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/966071466/the-eye-of-the-cyclops-from-forge-of-ice
Title: Re: (Kickstarter) Denizens of Azor: Eye of the Cyclops
Post by: Elk101 on June 17, 2018, 07:55:23 AM
I hope you don't mind but I amended your title to show the kickstarter was live as it stated it was a preview. I thought you might get more attention! Good luck with this, it's a cracking idea.
Title: Re: (Kickstarter) Denizens of Azor: Eye of the Cyclops
Post by: Alxbates on June 17, 2018, 11:34:23 PM
I hope you don't mind but I amended your title to show the kickstarter was live as it stated it was a preview. I thought you might get more attention! Good luck with this, it's a cracking idea.

It's all good - and I think you're right, the changed title is better.

I'm a little fried after that last push to get this thing launched!  Happy to accept help wherever it's offered!

I have some concerns that my pushing this as solely a 'pulp' project may be cutting into my potential audience - I know that this will appeal to fantasy players, too, but I don't want to do a duplicate thread.

And, in my head, the setting is a Lost World, of the type that Tarzan or Doc Savage would discover.  Also, despite weird drugs and lotus flowers and hypnotic smokes, there's nothing explicitly magical in Azor... so, I think that leaves me squarely in the pulp realm. 

Ah, well.  I probably need to do a set of 'stranded 1930's explorers' or something to make it more explicitly set in the Pulp heyday.

It's been off to a great start so far, looks like it might be funded later today.  I've already gotten in touch with the sculptors (Patrick Keith and David Soderquist) about working on stretch goals - the armored cyclops should be finished before the campaign ends, and some extra cult guards shortly afterwards.

I think at this point the big thing is to get the word out, so if anyone has a blog or a podcast, or if you're active on Twitter or Tumblr or Reddit or Google+ or any of the various social media networks, sharing a link to the campaign is a big help.  The more pledges it gets, the more free stuff will come with the main set, and the more options will be available as purchasable add-ons, too!
Title: Re: (Kickstarter) Denizens of Azor: Eye of the Cyclops
Post by: von Lucky on June 18, 2018, 01:27:24 AM
And funded! Wishing you all the best - keeping my eye on this.
Title: Re: (Kickstarter) Denizens of Azor: Eye of the Cyclops
Post by: Muzfish4 on June 18, 2018, 01:40:41 AM
Several of the folk I 'follow' on KS have pledged already which speaks volume for its appeal.

I am pretty close to backing and was wondering about:

1. Postage to Australia - happy to go with a cheaper surface mail option; and

2. Ability to include add-ons.

Best of luck with the venture.
Title: Re: (Kickstarter) Denizens of Azor: Eye of the Cyclops
Post by: Johnno on June 18, 2018, 01:49:36 AM
I'm watching this.
I just want to know what the add ons are.
Title: Re: (Kickstarter) Denizens of Azor: Eye of the Cyclops
Post by: Alxbates on June 18, 2018, 11:09:38 AM
Several of the folk I 'follow' on KS have pledged already which speaks volume for its appeal.

I am pretty close to backing and was wondering about:

1. Postage to Australia - happy to go with a cheaper surface mail option; and

2. Ability to include add-ons.

Best of luck with the venture.

Thank you!  We just hit $4000, the first stretch goal, so I'm optimistic that we'll hit another (or two!) before this campaign is over.

1 - Postage to Australia will be via the cheapest option possible, I've shipped numerous orders to Australia in the past, this shouldn't be a problem.  I'm headed to the post office tomorrow to determine shipping to South Africa;  I can ask about shipping to Oz while I'm there.  Obviously, if you add extras on or if a bunch of things get added as freebies, that will increase the weight and shipping cost, but I can give you an estimate for the basic set at least.

1 - Add-ons will include a bunch of things from my regular range of miniatures (basically anything where I can afford to take the 10% hit that Kickstarter & the card processors take), as well as duplicates of most of the things available in the Kickstarter.  I suspect that people will want to buy extras of the cult guards and shields, and maybe an extra cyclops or two, too.

I'm happy to answer any other questions that come up.

-Alex
Title: Re: (Kickstarter) Denizens of Azor: Eye of the Cyclops
Post by: Elk101 on June 18, 2018, 04:50:54 PM
Well done on funding. I think the Lost World vibe is a good one and it does set it apart from most of the stuff on the fantasy board. Some 30s adventurers would be good too.
Title: Re: (Kickstarter) Denizens of Azor: Eye of the Cyclops
Post by: Lost Egg on June 19, 2018, 07:54:37 AM
Just watched this video and it made me think of this project.

https://www.facebook.com/TEDEducation/videos/2046756712004191/UzpfSTM3MzM0OTY2OTY5NjE0MDo2MDk1NDczMDI3NDMwNDE/ (https://www.facebook.com/TEDEducation/videos/2046756712004191/UzpfSTM3MzM0OTY2OTY5NjE0MDo2MDk1NDczMDI3NDMwNDE/)

...cyclopean sheep...
Title: Re: (Kickstarter) Denizens of Azor: Eye of the Cyclops
Post by: d phipps on June 20, 2018, 01:43:02 AM
Fantastic! I've been waiting for this one. Looks awesome!  :-*
Title: Re: (Kickstarter) Denizens of Azor: Eye of the Cyclops
Post by: Alxbates on June 22, 2018, 11:24:25 AM
Just watched this video and it made me think of this project.

https://www.facebook.com/TEDEducation/videos/2046756712004191/UzpfSTM3MzM0OTY2OTY5NjE0MDo2MDk1NDczMDI3NDMwNDE/ (https://www.facebook.com/TEDEducation/videos/2046756712004191/UzpfSTM3MzM0OTY2OTY5NjE0MDo2MDk1NDczMDI3NDMwNDE/)

...cyclopean sheep...

Not too far off of the actual inspiration for this campaign, actually.  I'll put up a post about it at some point.
Title: Re: (Kickstarter) Denizens of Azor: Eye of the Cyclops
Post by: Alxbates on June 23, 2018, 02:56:35 PM
And things are going pretty well with the Kickstarter!

It's fully funded, and we've made a solid foray into the stretch goals.  The armored cyclops sculpt has been unlocked (and is being sculpted by David Soderquist as we speak!), everyone gets free shields for their cultists, the Guard Captain has been unlocked (and is being sculpted by Patrick Keith!), the pet lizard has been unlocked (already sculpted by Dave Cauley!), and we're well on our way towards everyone getting free sacrificial skull piles with which to decorate their hidden temples!

(https://i.imgur.com/OLaeiJA.png)

(https://i.imgur.com/0o1zK2l.jpg)

(https://i.imgur.com/Bb8ANmX.jpg)

(https://i.imgur.com/CUgJttL.jpg)

(https://i.imgur.com/GTFl3PU.jpg)

And I've got more planned!  I just sketched out what I think is a unique treasure pile a few days ago and lined a sculptor up to start work on it, and I've spoken with someone about new cult guard sculpts, too.

Check out the Kickstarter - share the link, tell your friends, please :)

https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/966071466/the-eye-of-the-cyclops-from-forge-of-ice/

I've also made a big chunk of my regular catalog available as add-on purchases, so, if you'be been waiting for an excuse to buy my stuff, now is a good time!

Thanks for looking!

-Alex
Title: Re: (Kickstarter) Denizens of Azor: Eye of the Cyclops
Post by: Lost Egg on June 23, 2018, 05:04:04 PM
I do love the art for the captain, cute but she means business.
Title: Re: (Kickstarter) Denizens of Azor: Eye of the Cyclops
Post by: Muzfish4 on June 27, 2018, 05:09:22 AM
Happy to back this one.

Plenty of add-ons are on offer so well worth considering if you're still on the fence.
Title: Re: (Kickstarter) Denizens of Azor: Eye of the Cyclops
Post by: Alxbates on June 27, 2018, 12:40:02 PM
Happy to back this one.

Plenty of add-ons are on offer so well worth considering if you're still on the fence.

Thank you for the support Muzfish :)
Title: Re: (Kickstarter) Denizens of Azor: Eye of the Cyclops
Post by: Alxbates on June 27, 2018, 12:44:08 PM
Rob Wheeler of Pennyfew Painting finished painting the pet lizard and the sacrificial skull pile in record speed!

(https://i.imgur.com/i8eTJJY.jpg)

The skull piles were unlocked as a stretch goal, and come free with your pledge.  The lizard was unlocked as a purchasable add-on for $4.
Title: Re: (Kickstarter) Denizens of Azor: Eye of the Cyclops
Post by: oabee on June 28, 2018, 12:02:20 PM
Thanks for the great minis, Alex. I'm in for sure.

I've been putting it off, but now there's really no excuse not to add-on the Lion Ladies and their pets...and, of course, that Guard Captain is irresistible....and, further of course, one really can't get by with just ONE cyclops...

 o_o  o_o  o_o



 :D

Title: Re: (Kickstarter) Denizens of Azor: Eye of the Cyclops
Post by: joshuaslater on June 28, 2018, 08:35:32 PM
Thanks for the great minis, Alex. I'm in for sure.

I've been putting it off, but now there's really no excuse not to add-on the Lion Ladies and their pets...and, of course, that Guard Captain is irresistible....and, further of course, one really can't get by with just ONE cyclops...

 o_o  o_o  o_o



 :D



Ha Bates!!!  No one can have just one one eyed Cyclops!
Title: Re: (Kickstarter) Denizens of Azor: Eye of the Cyclops
Post by: oabee on June 30, 2018, 06:19:42 PM
Ha Bates!!!  No one can have just one one eyed Cyclops!

This is what I'm talkin' about: I have been hosting Lost World Pulp Alley games at conventions for a year and a half now. My normal game has 4 players. If I were to do the Hill Raiders scenario from Pulp Alley's Lost World of Lemuria campaign, I would need seven cyclops: 5 deploy on turn 1 (# of leagues +1) and 2 deploy at the end of turn 2. If you do the math, that means I need 7 cyclops. PLUS each cyclops deploys with a "skull boar" in base contact. Seven more. The miniatures that Dave Phipps shows in the book specifically for this scenario are Alex's Cyclops and Entelodonts ("Skull Pig").

Now, I know, you don't have to use Alex's minis: you can substitute anything that would be suitable. And I know it sounds like I'm complaining.

But, dang it, these are great minis AND I WANNA HAVE THEM and use them in this dang scenario!   ;D ;D ;D

So the reality of this whole post is that I'm busy figuring how to finance these 14 minis and work out a procurement and painting schedule. Maybe I can just get 5 of each and hope the players kill off a couple of each in the first two turns...Yeah, that  should work.... ;)

I hosted Dave's Lemuria Death Rides from Above scenario at a couple of conventions and bought a passel (gaggle?) of pterosaurs from Andrew Taylor's Antediluvian Miniatures, and it was worth every penny. A great scenario: challenging, entertaining, FUN!
(http://leadadventureforum.com/gallery/31/8164-260218234955-315781185.jpeg)

So Alex (and Andrew!): keep churning out these great miniatures!
Title: Re: (Kickstarter) Denizens of Azor: Eye of the Cyclops
Post by: Alxbates on July 03, 2018, 10:30:10 PM
This is what I'm talkin' about: I have been hosting Lost World Pulp Alley games at conventions for a year and a half now. My normal game has 4 players. If I were to do the Hill Raiders scenario from Pulp Alley's Lost World of Lemuria campaign, I would need seven cyclops: 5 deploy on turn 1 (# of leagues +1) and 2 deploy at the end of turn 2. If you do the math, that means I need 7 cyclops. PLUS each cyclops deploys with a "skull boar" in base contact. Seven more. The miniatures that Dave Phipps shows in the book specifically for this scenario are Alex's Cyclops and Entelodonts ("Skull Pig").

Now, I know, you don't have to use Alex's minis: you can substitute anything that would be suitable. And I know it sounds like I'm complaining.

But, dang it, these are great minis AND I WANNA HAVE THEM and use them in this dang scenario!   ;D ;D ;D

So the reality of this whole post is that I'm busy figuring how to finance these 14 minis and work out a procurement and painting schedule. Maybe I can just get 5 of each and hope the players kill off a couple of each in the first two turns...Yeah, that  should work.... ;)

I hosted Dave's Lemuria Death Rides from Above scenario at a couple of conventions and bought a passel (gaggle?) of pterosaurs from Andrew Taylor's Antediluvian Miniatures, and it was worth every penny. A great scenario: challenging, entertaining, FUN!
(http://leadadventureforum.com/gallery/31/8164-260218234955-315781185.jpeg)

So Alex (and Andrew!): keep churning out these great miniatures!

I wholeheartedly endorse the purchase of many, many of my miniatures :D

Here's a preview of the second Cyclops sculpt in progress:

(https://i.imgur.com/LfGkQZc.jpg)

(https://i.imgur.com/CriNTN2.jpg)

Cyclopes are incredibly rare in my setting - there would almost never be more than three or four alive at any given time in history, but, that said, it's not impossible that I'd have a third sculpted if there was demand for it.  I did have something in mind about a set of triplets, each born with only one eye...

That said, "not impossible" isn't the same as "likely", so... I dunno.  We'll see.

I'm super curious to get in on one of those games, though!  I hope to be at Gary Con again next year, and maybe NTRPG con, too.  Maybe I'll see you there!

-Alex
Title: Re: (Kickstarter) Denizens of Azor: Eye of the Cyclops
Post by: Alxbates on July 03, 2018, 10:42:04 PM
Woohoo!

The Kickstarter is progressing very well - over 200% funded!

https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/966071466/the-eye-of-the-cyclops-from-forge-of-ice

We're in the final week, and I have some updates to share!

Patrick Keith has finished the Guard Captain for the cult -

(https://i.imgur.com/FVnnte6.jpg)

And I've added three new Pterro-Men as add-on purchases! 

(https://i.imgur.com/NtTnm6c.png)

(https://i.imgur.com/XZIwrAt.jpg)

(https://i.imgur.com/TBloBf9.jpg)

These sculpts are all in-progress, but they'll be finished by the time I'm doing fulfillment for the KS, so, I decided to add them as add-on purchases (and to help defray the costs of the sculpts with pre-orders - they're worth it, but they were not cheap!).  Purely an example of serendipitous timing - I was planning on releasing them this fall as a part of a separate release, but, since they're going to be ready now, I figured why not make them available immediately.  There are a few more pics up over on the KS campaign page.

Thanks for looking - and thank you to everyone who has pledged and/or shared a link to this campaign.  It's such a huge part of the success of little indie games projects like mine, and it is very much appreciated.

-Alex
Title: Re: (Kickstarter) Denizens of Azor: Eye of the Cyclops
Post by: uti long smile on July 03, 2018, 11:52:26 PM
Love the Ptero-men! And backed!
Title: Re: (Kickstarter) Denizens of Azor: Eye of the Cyclops
Post by: Elk101 on July 04, 2018, 07:25:22 AM
The Ptero-men are brilliant. I see that Fenris Games will be sorting EU shipping and was wondering if they would be picking the range up after the Kickstarter?
Title: Re: (Kickstarter) Denizens of Azor: Eye of the Cyclops
Post by: Lost Egg on July 04, 2018, 07:52:02 AM
Brilliant sculpts :D
Title: Re: (Kickstarter) Denizens of Azor: Eye of the Cyclops
Post by: LeadAsbestos on July 04, 2018, 10:52:52 AM
The Ptero-men are brilliant. I see that Fenris Games will be sorting EU shipping and was wondering if they would be picking the range up after the Kickstarter?

http://fenrisgames.com/shop#!/Forge-of-Ice-miniatures/c/23044053/offset=0&sort=normal
Title: Re: (Kickstarter) Denizens of Azor: Eye of the Cyclops
Post by: Elk101 on July 04, 2018, 04:43:17 PM
http://fenrisgames.com/shop#!/Forge-of-Ice-miniatures/c/23044053/offset=0&sort=normal

Nice! Thanks
Title: Re: (Kickstarter) Denizens of Azor: Eye of the Cyclops
Post by: Alxbates on July 07, 2018, 01:01:31 PM
Yep!

Fenris will be carrying nearly my entire range for the foreseeable future - Ian is a great chap, he's been very helpful with this whole thing, and frankly it's a HUGE relief to have him handling the international shipping.
Title: Re: (Kickstarter) Denizens of Azor: Eye of the Cyclops
Post by: Alxbates on July 07, 2018, 01:15:48 PM
(https://i.imgur.com/J3U1k52.jpg)

And we're into the final 48 hours of the Campaign.

Looks like we're going to unlock a couple of spearmen and at least one archer (although I'm optimistic for a second archer).

Another thing I haven't posted here is my sketch for a treasure pile that everyone gets free with a full pledge - Phil Hynes of Bear's Head Miniatures will be sculpting it.

https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/966071466/the-eye-of-the-cyclops-from-forge-of-ice/
Title: Re: (Kickstarter) Denizens of Azor: Eye of the Cyclops
Post by: von Lucky on July 09, 2018, 11:39:25 AM
Well done, looks to have been a great success.
Title: Re: (Kickstarter) Denizens of Azor: Eye of the Cyclops
Post by: Alxbates on July 10, 2018, 07:24:55 AM
Well done, looks to have been a great success.

It definitely exceeded my expectations!  I'm completely wiped out lol

I think I'm probably going to sleep for a day or two!  But first - thank you very much to anyone who supported the campaign, pledged to it, shared the link, etc.  It was awesome too see how positively this project has been received.

And now, after I sleep for a few days, the real work begins!

-Alex
Title: Re: (Kickstarter) Denizens of Azor: Eye of the Cyclops
Post by: Alxbates on July 28, 2018, 02:42:41 PM
Things are progressing well!

So well, in fact, that I've added an unexpected figure to the set:  Atalo-Pharos, bodyguard to the cult leader:

(https://i.imgur.com/fFLJm9H.jpg)

Sculpted by Patrick Keith!

(https://i.imgur.com/jOYPqvs.jpg)

I'm sure there's more that I should say, but, it's late and I can't think of anything, so, that's all for now!
Title: Re: (Kickstarter) Denizens of Azor: Eye of the Cyclops
Post by: Hobby Services on July 28, 2018, 03:46:32 PM
That's quite nice.  One of Keith's better sculpts IMO.  I could see her working well for Glorantha gaming too - and 13th Age just came out with their own Glorantha book, how timely.
Title: Re: (Kickstarter) Denizens of Azor: Eye of the Cyclops
Post by: Lost Egg on July 28, 2018, 03:54:27 PM
Lovely mini.
Title: Re: Denizens of Azor: Man-Apes and more Man-Apes!
Post by: Alxbates on August 08, 2018, 07:22:23 AM
Man-Apes, Man-Apes, and More Man-Apes!

(https://i.imgur.com/tuRktuf.jpg)

All three different Man-Ape bodies, with a variety of the three interchangeable right arms and head options in use.

Also, the Crown of the First King, something of a legendary artifact to the non-human residents of Azor.

Size comparisons with them and some of the other non-human models in my range:

(https://i.imgur.com/h2Y7MEc.jpg)

I'm not quite sure why the color is a little wonky in these photos... last time I took pics I had more natural sunlight in the room, that may have made the difference.
Title: Re: Denizens of Azor: Man-Apes and more Man-Apes!
Post by: beefcake on August 08, 2018, 12:01:01 PM
These are all absolutely great. Love the pteromen and the apes.
Title: Re: Denizens of Azor: Man-Apes and more Man-Apes!
Post by: Argonor on September 04, 2018, 08:56:54 PM
I somehow missed out on this thread for a while, and just had to pick up my lower jaw from the keyboard...  :o

Lots of interesting stuff, and those Man-Apes just scream 'Lost World' or 'Savage Aliens'!
Title: Re: Denizens of Azor: Man-Apes and more Man-Apes!
Post by: Alxbates on September 05, 2018, 02:01:41 AM
I'm trying something  new - here's a YouTube video showing off the Shrine of the Cyclops!

I need to speak up a little louder for the next one, but overall I'm pretty happy with it.

https://youtu.be/6W4L_s2bRHE
Title: Re: Denizens of Azor: Man-Apes and more Man-Apes!
Post by: snitcythedog on September 05, 2018, 10:56:14 PM
What happened to your online store.  I was sure that you had one.  The pterro-men are a must.
Snitchy sends.
Title: Re: Denizens of Azor: Man-Apes and more Man-Apes!
Post by: Alxbates on September 06, 2018, 06:51:12 AM
What happened to your online store.  I was sure that you had one.  The pterro-men are a must.
Snitchy sends.

I've never had a working online store, much to my chagrin (it really is long, long overdue).  The Pterro-men will be available to purchase through BackerKit once it launches for my Cyclops Kickstarter (probably only a few weeks away, I think).

-Alex
Title: Re: Denizens of Azor: Man-Apes and more Man-Apes!
Post by: Mr Tough Guy on September 06, 2018, 03:15:23 PM
Doesn't Fenris Games also carry the range for UK/Europe?
Title: Re: Denizens of Azor: Man-Apes and more Man-Apes!
Post by: Alxbates on September 26, 2018, 03:03:08 PM
Doesn't Fenris Games also carry the range for UK/Europe?

That's correct - Fenris carries most of my stuff for UK and Europe.
Title: Re: Denizens of Azor: Man-Apes and more Man-Apes!
Post by: Alxbates on November 25, 2018, 11:39:57 PM
Yikes - it's been a long time since I've posted an update.  I have stuff to say and stuff to show off, but for the moment I'll just say that I'm still alive and working, despite some unexpected delays.  I'll update the Kickstarter page this evening.
Title: Re: Denizens of Azor: Man-Apes and more Man-Apes!
Post by: von Lucky on November 26, 2018, 06:49:22 AM
Good to hear!
Title: Re: Denizens of Azor: Man-Apes and more Man-Apes!
Post by: Alxbates on December 19, 2018, 05:33:59 PM
Some new odds and ends that will be released with the Kickstarter - purely for atmosphere, although I think they can be useful as treasure markers or objectives.  All sculpted by Dave Cauley!

 A stone anvil:

(https://i.imgur.com/zfOHjnd.jpg)

A weapons and armor pile:

(https://i.imgur.com/rS9EtSk.jpg)

(https://i.imgur.com/mzAiBAe.jpg)

And a detail of the treasure pile:

(https://i.imgur.com/QN6zgb3.jpg)
Title: Re: Denizens of Azor: Man-Apes and more Man-Apes!
Post by: Lost Egg on December 19, 2018, 05:58:48 PM
Lovely stuff.

I don't know why it hasn't occurred before but these minis would look great on a HeroQuest board.
Title: Re: Denizens of Azor: Man-Apes and more Man-Apes!
Post by: Alxbates on June 05, 2019, 04:18:23 AM
Yikes!  Six months since I've posted an update!

It's been a long and difficult winter, but I'm still above ground and grinding away at this thing.

I'm mostly on Facebook and Instagram these days (although I've largely unplugged from both of those recently, too), but I haven't forgotten the LAF.  I'll be back with more stuff!
Title: Re: Denizens of Azor: Man-Apes and more Man-Apes!
Post by: Alxbates on June 05, 2019, 04:21:22 AM
Here's a bit of flavor fiction I posted to the Kickstarter page awhile back - I'm fairly happy with it, I think it sets the scene for the Cyclops pretty well:


Dar-Enkaion tipped his helmet back and wiped the sweat from his brow. It was always hot at the copper mines. The sun baked the rocks, and dusty grit made ones tongue gummy. He took a sip from his canteen and spit to clear his mouth.
 

Still, he mused, it was better to be sweating above ground than cramped in the dark shafts below. Better to be an overseer than a conscript.
 

A commotion at one of the tunnel entrances caught his attention.
 

A dirt-caked, nearly-naked man was arguing with a sentry, eyes wide with panic. The sentry was growing angry and appeared ready to strike the man, but Dar-Enkaion, curious, walked up and gestured to the man to speak.
 

“What’s this, then?” he said, mildly. “You know there are punishments for shirking.”
 

“Overseer, please!” The man fell to his knees, groveling. “We tunneled into a natural cave! We found Titan bones!”
 

Still on his knees, the man pushed a basket forward, half full of odd-shaped rocks.
 

Dar-Enkaion nodded his approval. “Good. Natural caves save on digging, and Titan bones are always a welcome find.”
 

Welcome, indeed. Alchemists and apothecaries would pay good coin for such things. Credulous simpletons would grind them down and mix them into tea, hoping to cure a host of ailments. He snorted derisively at the thought. As if drinking sand had ever cured anyone of anything. He grabbed a handful of stones from the basket, letting them fall through his fingers. Small, many broken or chipped, but definitely bones made from rock. Larger or more interesting pieces – claws, skulls and the like – might go to the temples for prices that could make a man wealthy. Still, these little pieces had some value.
 

The idiot young nobleman who had inherited these mines along with his title thought that the finer points of commerce were beneath him. As long as the monthly quotas of copper were delivered, he didn’t want to know any details of the work. Any windfalls landed squarely in Dar-Enkaion’s purse, and he was wise enough to spread the good fortune around. Even the guard was smiling – he knew he’d receive a share, too.

“What is your concern? You know I reward those who find such things.” The man’s terror seemed unreasonable – the Titans and their ilk must have been frightful monsters, but despite their bones of stone there was nothing to fear anymore. Their flesh had been like all other flesh, long since turned to dust by the passage of time.
 

“Overseer…” The man gasped, still out of breath. He shook his head and looked at his hands, as if searching for the right words. “… there is a skull.”
 

Avarice lit like fire in Dar-Enkaion’s chest, but he took care to master his face, displaying no emotion beyond mild interest.
 

“Go on.”
 

“My Lord, the skull is almost like unto a man’s, but as large as a man… and with only one socket in the center.” The miner swallowed again, his hands shaking with supernatural dread. He looked up, daring to make eye contact with his overseer. “As if for a single great eye, staring out of the darkness!!”
 

The fire turned cold in Dar-Enkaion’s liver. The sentry blanched and took half a step back.
 

“One great eye…”
 

Rumors from a few years ago stirred in his memory. A one-eyed child, born to a peasant couple in an outlying village, left exposed in the jungle to die. The parents, cursed, driven out of the village into the wilds, shunned by their former neighbors.
 

More vividly, he remembered a grand circus from his youth, his soldier days, and the finale in the arena that year. A monster, nearly twice the height of a man, screaming and babbling, wildly swinging a broken sword at anything that moved. It strangled a crocodile to death with its bare hands, then ripped the arm off a champion. It was finally brought down by four men with spears. A monster with one eye, its piteous wails eerily childlike as it bled out on the sand.
 

Perhaps this matter did merit the attention of someone outside the mines, after all.
 

He turned to the sentry.
 

“Send a runner to the Temple Sard. My cousin is a lesser priest there. Tell him to come here at once, urgently. Do NOT tell him why. Use my name… he will come.”
 

The sentry nodded and trotted off.
 

He looked back down at the shivering miner. Tongues would wag; men would have to be silenced. But first…
 

He nudged the man with the toe of his boot. “Get up. You have done well.” Reaching into the satchel at his side, he pulled out a Baton of Command and extended it. “Gather up a work party and enlarge that tunnel.” The astonished man took the Baton, too surprised at his commutation to speak. “Tell no-one what you have seen.”
Title: Re: Denizens of Azor: Man-Apes and more Man-Apes!
Post by: FifteensAway on June 06, 2019, 06:23:10 AM
Even though I'm still pissed as hell at you for not doing my requested figures in 15mm!  lol lol lol lol for some reason I felt compelled this evening to peruse this entire thread.  My conclusion?  We should dub you Sir Boobsalot.   :D

Not really my interest area but a lot of very cool stuff.
Title: Re: Denizens of Azor: Man-Apes and more Man-Apes!
Post by: Alxbates on June 07, 2019, 07:27:18 PM
Even though I'm still pissed as hell at you for not doing my requested figures in 15mm!  lol lol lol lol for some reason I felt compelled this evening to peruse this entire thread.  My conclusion?  We should dub you Sir Boobsalot.   :D

Not really my interest area but a lot of very cool stuff.

LOL

Maaaaaan, I was so conflicted for so long about the topless female figures.

I had always planned to have two in my range - the snake priestesses.  The fit my idea for the setting, they work well with the Minoan-esque inspiration, and I love Patrick Keith's sculpts.

But they sell SO WELL!  I thought that they might be popular figures, but, holy crap, they outsell my other stuff three to one or more. 

So, I had another one made.

Then another, then another. 

I think after the royal court set I'll be done with topless female figures for a long while - I made a point in my Cyclops set to have three armored female figures sculpted - and I have a nude male figure coming up, too.

I was really leery of getting a reputation for being one of those people who only makes cheesecake.  I don't necessarily have a problem with cheesecake, and, again, the scantily-clad-women thing is a common trope in the pulp fantasy sources that are a big inspiration for me, but there are limits.

I'm glad you think my stuff is cool!  If you're looking for 15mm stuff that's similar in tone, I recommend Crom's Anvil.
Title: Re: Denizens of Azor: Man-Apes and more Man-Apes!
Post by: angel barracks on May 04, 2020, 12:35:41 PM

I'm glad you think my stuff is cool!  If you're looking for 15mm stuff that's similar in tone, I recommend Crom's Anvil.

Thanks Alex!
Very kind of you to say.
Title: Re: Denizens of Azor: Man-Apes and more Man-Apes!
Post by: Muzfish4 on May 05, 2020, 11:50:27 AM
I'd almost forgotten about this KS - does anyone have any word on how it is progressing?
Title: Re: Denizens of Azor: Man-Apes and more Man-Apes!
Post by: Alxbates on July 02, 2020, 01:12:16 PM
I'd almost forgotten about this KS - does anyone have any word on how it is progressing?

I'm not dead yet!

I've posted a couple of updates to the KS since you wrote your post. I've got the miniatures in hand, I'm currently sorting through 6000 or so individual pieces and getting ready to ship them. I will be posting an update to the Kickstarter about that in the next day or two. I expect to start shipping miniatures in a couple of weeks (it's going to take me awhile to go through every individual casting), and then the book will be shipped separately at some point after that.

I've dropped the ball on this so badly in so many ways that I'm just trying to get it finished in bite-sized chunks, one thing at a time.

Everyone is going to get everything that they pledged for.

-Alex