EI Year Two
Navigating the unknown
Some thoughts two years in as a full-time business owner.
The creative economy for us indie makers / entrepreneurs looks… uncertain. Kinda like it always has!!! Everything’s new and yet nothing’s new. There will always be people who run companies who would like to own, exploit, and bully the creative class. In many cases for their own selfish gain.
Still, we’ve been here before. Ages before our existence on the creative scene, artists were experiencing rough times and uncertainties. Disruption from industrialists, religious figures, vengeful rulers, etc. Even physical persecution at times.
It’s all stuff I try to keep in mind. The business of creativity demands a sense of informed optimism mixed with intellectual honesty as we navigate societal and economic challenges. Yes, business is about income. But business is also about people.
Going into 2026, I’m going to continue investing time in relationship building, network curation, collaborations, and fostering dialogue through community.
2025 Accomplishments
1 - Successfully completed a crowd-funding project
Escape Station – Vector Transmission was my first crowd-funded Kickstarter project. This release features an art zine with rules for an accompanying card game – Vector Interplay. In this game, images from across all of the personal projects I’ve created over the years converge to form a two-player experience. There’s lots of myths, moods, and mysteries to explore.
With this first crowd-funding project I set a $500 goal. Very modest admittedly, but achievable. Over the years I’ve helped fund a lot of projects on the Kickstarter platform. So I’ve had a chance to learn firsthand how the best indie campaigns succeed. It’s all about growing an audience over time, listening to their inputs, and rewarding backers for their support.
I see crowd-funding as an important strategy for me when it comes to building a sustainable small business. The next project I’ll be releasing via Kickstarter is called Bugruckus – Sprout + Charm. You can learn more about it here!
2 - Learned the DTF printing process for apparel
My friend Nicole introduced me to the Direct-to-Film (DTF) process and I was pretty blown away by it. I used to dabble in screen-printing, and while I really enjoy that process, it’s quite intense. Screen-printing requires lots of trial and error, as well as supplies, cleaners, space to operate, and storage space for printed items. It’s also the kind of thing that takes a lot time, with setup and teardown considerations at every turn.
DTF printing is waaaay less intense for a home studio setup. And the results are so good even well-known brands are starting to use DTF printing for apparel. Because I produce everything in small batches, I can create 10-20 items at a time.
I’ve really enjoyed the DTF process so far and I’ll be exploring more with it for sure.
3 - Presented and exhibited at events
CritHit 2025 – Exhibited at this tabletop gaming convention.
Escape Station Livestream – Presented the making of Vector Interplay, a game I released in 2025.
Making the Game (AIGA) – Presented on the topic of game design at dialog in downtown Phoenix as part of an AIGA sponsored event.
Phoenix Fan Fusion 2025 – Exhibited at Arizona’s largest pop-culture event.
Making the Game (University of Tennessee) – Virtual presentation for the University of Tennessee design students.
Phoenix Design Week Conference – Exhibited at this annual conference hosted by AIGA Arizona and multiple sponsors. The event is geared towards the creative professions and features both local and national speakers.
How to Become an Illustrator: Turning Passion Projects into a Creative Career (Sessions College) – Recorded livestream presentation for Sessions College students and interested professionals. (Watch here if you want!)
Type Thursday – Presented on the topic of typography design at this monthly event held throughout Arizona at different locations.
4 - Began learning 2D animation
Adobe Fresco is the main tool I’m using right now for digital drawing. It’s become something I rely on to deliver client-ready work as well. A natural progression of illustration is animation. I’ve never had to know animation for my in-house / agency roles, but I’m learning it now. I’ll be sharing some animation experiments in the coming days and look forward to becoming more proficient in this area.
5 - Launched Daring Doodle Crew
In September 2025 I launched a doodling meetup for local creatives called Daring Doodle Crew. Each month I host a meetup at a coffee shop, cafe, or other spaces where we get together to doodle casually and chat. It all started because I someone asked if I would want to get together to just draw some time. I figured I’m drawing everyday, it would be great to connect with others at the same time!
In addition to the in-person meetup, there’s a virtual option for those who would like to connect that way. I get some folks are tired of virtual connections, but I do think much depends on the mood / purpose of online meetups. I really enjoy online meetups for creative reasons. It’s a great way to learn from others and keep things casual.
More info here. Email ericsdesk@gmail.com if you have questions!
Free of charge, free of ads, free of algorithms :J
2026 Outlook
Commissions
Most of the client work I receive is through word-of-mouth recommendations, which I really appreciate. In 2026, I’ll be more specific about the kinds of commissions I accept:
I’m looking to work with clients who want to stand out as different – using illustration and design to communicate a sense of freedom, wonder, and imagination.
Examples include personal branding, custom apparel, tabletop / digital games, publications, and educational content. If you have a project in the new year that fits this general description, I’d like to chat with you! People hire me when they want to stand apart as different while sharing their unique stories.
Event Collabs
I have two creative workshops in the works for 2026, which I’ll be announcing later. Both involve the business side of ideas and getting them done. I will be looking for venues and possibly sponsors, but again – more to come.
Sometimes when we want to reach new goals, we need to team up with others. If you have a pop-up shop opportunity or would like to team up with me on an event, please let me know. Examples could be having a drawing day at your coffee shop, running tabletop games at your cafe, and / or offering a workshop to your audience.
Let’s help each other shine!
The chart below has general timelines and stages of progress for upcoming studio releases I’m working on. Thanks to all for the support! Let’s keep going. Let’s keep growing.
–E
EI Studio – Q3 Update
Here comes Bugruckus!
ANNOUNCEMENT
In 2017 I started work on a game called Bugruckus, set within the Bugchums world I’ve been building. Well, skipping, skipping – Bugruckus was delayed by LOTS of life realities. But like the stubborn artist-goblin I can be, I kept tinkering on the project little-by-little. Playtesting. Designing. Reworking. I’ll be releasing the game very soon via Kickstarter. Here’s a few more details.
Bugruckus Links
Here’s some ways to keep up with the project and get involved before the game releases. Being the first to know about things with this project isn’t critical, but it will be beneficial. Especially if you’d like to be involved in the game’s direction AND secure discounted pricing through Kickstarter.
Register to be notified when the game launches on Kickstarter and secure discounted pricing.
Get the Bugruckus Game Companion for all sorts of extra facts about the world this game is set in.
Thanks for your interest and support. If you think I’m doing a good job, please tell a friend about this site. That would be most excellent of you!
Below is my Q3 project status update. Commissions are closed at the moment as I’m pretty booked up with consultant work. I’ll reconsider my availability again in Q4. For speaking opportunities and in-person events contact me here.
As you can see, all my new product creation time is going into Bugruckus right now. Bee the first to know about the game when it launches :P!
As always, if you read this I appreciate it. Thank you for your support!
–E
EI Studio – Q2 Update
Springin’ into Summer
I always have a plan – until things don’t go according to plan.
It’s April here in the desert. So that means summer is pretty much starting now. Life-things that are on my mind at this moment: taking more walks while I can, swimming during the summer for exercise, and making sure the AC is working well before the AZ sun gets really angry.
There’s lots on my mind with the studio too. I’ve been consulting with a university, serving as a SME as they prepare an upcoming game design degree. There have also been some contract opportunities I’ve been working on and preparations for upcoming events.
I’ve had to pivot from my Q1 plans for 2025 too. Some economies are struggling right now, such as the game design field which has been deeply impacted by new US regulations / tariffs. Initially I planned to spend lots of time seeking out work in that area as a contract creative, as illustration and design for board games is right up my alley. However, I’m not sure about that now. Many US companies are being forced to slow, retool, and even let go staff. So, we’ll see.
Regarding studio-initiated projects, here’s an update on what’s in the works:
Upcoming In-Person Events
Phoenix Fan Fusion – June 6—8 – Catch me in Artist Alley sharing new art, games, and even some fun stuff for creative folks.
CritHit 7 – July 5 & 6 – There’s no fee to visit all the indie pop-up shops at this board game themed event. I’ll have all the merch from Phx Fan Fusion as well as some other goodies.
Game Night at Gamers Guild, North Phoenix (Dates Vary) – If you’d like to meet up, catch a game with me, and chat about stuff watch for updates on my social channels: @ericimagines.
Escape Station – Vector Transmission
My first Kickstarter Make 100 project was a success! Super-thankful to all who supported Vector Transmission. (Late pledges are available until end of business on Friday, April 25th.)
As of April 22, this project is being prepared for print. The “plan” is to ship Kickstarter backers their copies before I share the project at Phoenix Fan Fusion in June. All is on track for this, barring any vendor snags or delays.
Vector Transmission was cookin’ behind-the-scenes for a while. When Q1 started I didn’t think it I’d get to it early in the year. However, another project fell through and I saw an opportunity to get something created that I could share at upcoming in-person events throughout 2025. So I decided to prioritize its release.
So what is Escape Station? Only in recent years have I had clarity around what it actually “is.” It’s a figurative place of escape for folks who find comfort and purpose in things such as music, zines, games, art, etc. For instance, some of us share gaming experiences with others to escape the nonsense of reality. Some of us create things as a form of escape and entertainment. And some enjoy both. Whatever the case, Escape Station is a state-of-mind. People like us get the world is in turmoil, but rather than withdraw completely, we’re gonna come together to share our love of indie art and games.
Prototype Vector Interplay cards. I’ve been driving around town play-testing and showing off a preview of the first 20 cards. A total of 41 are planned for the first release.
Vector Transmission is a project that includes a two-player card game and a companion art-zine. Both are filled with illustrations and writings from across several different projects I’ve initiated. It’s an “extraverse” of sorts, with its own fictions and mysteries. It’s truly a convergence of my vector art styles and otherworldly stories.
I’ve learned over the years how one project can make all the difference and I’m really excited to see where this one leads!
Bugruckus – Sprout + Charm
The short-form status update is: still cookin’! The rules of the card game are finalized and once work on Vector Transmission’s retail release is done (June), I’ll shift gears back to this one.
Latest efforts on this project have been about capturing small vignettes of writing for cards, editing some card images, and preparing my workflow to colorize all the artwork. The world of Bugchums, where Bugruckus is set, is also becoming more cohesive with additional images, notes, and world-building elements coming together.
Bugchums – Mini-Mart Merchant
This is a game also set within the world of Bugchums, which you can download from my shop, print on your home printer, and play with friends.
The first Bugchums – Mini-Mart game sheet features just hatched bugs from the Charm swarm. I currently have another game sheet in the works featuring “mini” bugs of the Sprout group ,which will be available on my site soon. More to come!
Here’s an updated release schedule as we head towards Q3. Things to know: I’m available for illustration commissions, game design projects, and in-person events. Contact me to discuss options!
A quick note regarding “Hyperlight Slice” – this is a coloring book project that’s on pause as I evaluate some options for its production. I have about 30 pages complete in terms of art and lots more sketches to finalize as well. I’ll likely pick up progress on this one again starting in Fall 2025.
As always, if you read this – that was really cool of you! Thank you for your support!
–E
EI Studio - Q1 Update
2025? Is that you? Cool.
A brief update as we dive into 2025. Thanks for supporting my studio!
I’m looking forward to a busy, full and fun schedule here in the studio during 2025, with lots of things lined up. To start, here’s three things I’m focusing on for Q1.
Illustration commissions
I’ll be taking on more commissions for individual entrepreneurs, midsized agencies and even some long-time creative friends. If you like the art here on my site, you’ll like working with me. If you have a project in the new year to chat about, let’s chat!
Games, games, games
The tabletop game space is boom, boom, booming. While the pace of growth may be impacted due to overseas tariff changes and other policies that will make consumers pay more for games from big companies, us indie publishers have some opportunities to innovate.
I’ll have some announcements coming up soon for new projects!
Here’s a 2025 schedule of projects in progress. It’s a bit squishy as some release date timings will be impacted by economic realities and other variables. But I’m committed to these projects and I’m making good progress on them daily!
Thanks for reading this! I look forward connecting and collaborating with local artists and designers here in the desert and lots of you online too. If you wanna chat sometime, contact me here.
–E
EI Year One
Here to grow.
Some reflections on my first year as a full-time business owner.
Back in the 90s, I thought 2024 was gonna be awesome. For lots of reasons that didn’t include me working for myself. Well, here I am. No flying cars or personal robot sandwich makers. But super-appreciative for what I have been able to accomplish.
Here’s five areas I invested in this year:
1 - Flip Doodle Deluxe
The success of Flip Doodle back in 2020, which was released as a resource for creatives, teachers and parents, led me to create Flip Doodle Deluxe (FDD). There are 72 cards, 528 words, 50 kinds of challenges and pretty much infinite combinations of creative prompts possible. All in one solid little carrying case that’s ready to travel wherever you go.
Overall, this project took two years to complete. I worked from the original Flip Doodle PDFs I released and elaborated on them. This involved adding new word prompts, removing some, thinking about how different word mashups would play off each other, etc. It’s so satisfying to have completed this one!
2 - Bugchums – Mini-Mart Merchant
Bugchums – Mini-Mart Merchant (BCMMM) is a dice game you print on your home printer or at local print shop. Download all the files from my shop, grab some dice and a pen and go! I grew up playing dice games like Yahtzee, so drew a little inspiration from those experiences. The result is a snappy roll-and-write game that can be played solo or with lots of chums.
Game design is a true design discipline, on par with environmental design, industrial design, graphic design, etc. Taking things like gameplay rules, probabilities, chance happenings, visual elements, physical components and more, and converting all these things into fun is a true challenge. I’m getting better by doing it.
3 - Bugruckus – Game Companion
I created the Bugruckus Game Companion as a world-building reference to help keep me stay organized as I create the upcoming Bugruckus card game. This 64 page ebook is like an almanac for the world of Bugchums. It includes lots of artwork, all sorts of bug facts, info about the Bumble Isles and tons of information for folks who want to bee-come bugologists. (That’s a real job, I checked. And pun = 100% intentional!)
Book-making is something I’ve loved for a long time. Book covers, page structure, layout – all of it scratches a design itch for me. But I also want to create content that shows how committed I am to the intellectual properties I author. And as for writing as a craft, again the only way to get better is by doing it and embracing a continuous learning mindset.
4 - Ramp Up Client Commissions
Client commissions this year included some logo / identity design, t-shirt illustrations for Verrado High School and some animation packages. While I don’t post client work on my site, I do have a portfolio of those samples I share directly with potential clients when I meet with them. I also have a list of clients I’ve worked with here.
My goal in 2025 is to increase illustration commissions. I’d really like to create more artwork for textiles, clothing lines, decorator art, postcard sets, social media content, books and identity work for entrepreneurs. If you or anyone you know is looking to hire out such work, have them talk to me. My rates are affordable and I pride myself on being easy to work with.
5 - Attending / Hosting Events
During 2024 I did two main events – Family Fun Day at Phoenix Art Museum and Phoenix Design Week’s OASIS Conference. Both were really engaging and were great opportunities to meet the public, answer questions and connect with other creatives.
During 2025 I have at least two events I’m involved with and I’ll have some announcements coming regarding events I’ll be hosting in person and online!
Thank you to everyone who supported my studio in some way this year – with commissions, purchases from my shop and encouragement at events. It means a lot.
So what’s next? 2025 = time to think about what to work on next year! A quick sneak peak below. More to come soon.
–E