LA based illustrator Dan Goodsell has been brightening up the world with his hilarious brand of art for nearly ten years now, with the oddball cast of “The Imaginary World” (his signature series) featuring in numerous paintings, comic strips, animations, books and toys across the planet.
Originally (and rather ambitiously!) Goodsell planned to create his own theme park in a similar vein to Disneyland, so set about creating numerous characters including Mr Toast, Joe the Egg, Shaky Bacon and Lemonhead to form the basis of his imaginary world. Developing stories to build upon the characters personalities, Dan has since gone on to release several self-published low brow picture books including Mr Toast at the Circus, Imaginary World comics #1, GAGS and The World of Mr Toast to huge success.
Originally majoring in Physics, Goodsell is completely self taught in the world of low brow art. Proud that he has never been paid to work as an illustrator, the artist has been able to carve out a living from selling the numerous paintings and products he’s created over the years.
Fantastic Four #5- Mr Toast comic book cover series
Fantastic Four #2- Mr Toast comic book cover series
Dare Devil #8- Mr Toast comic book cover series
Spidertoast #3- Mr Toast comic book cover series
Known for his huge obsession with vintage design, his vast collection of iconic packaging, comics, illustrated educational books, and animated classroom films are an obvious influence in his work. One of his most successful long running lines, the Comic Book Covers series, is a perfect example of this; based on a host of Goodsell’s favourite Marvel Comics, the artist has re-imagined the covers using the cast of “The Imaginary World” to mirthful effect. Check out more of these priceless covers over at Goodsell’s Flickr account here.
Various Mr Toast watercolours for NYCC
Unfortunately, Dan will only be heading to the New York Comic Con this year as a visitor (previous years have seen the launch of exclusive Toast Boy vinyl toys, plushes and books), but will be about on the event floor on Friday and Saturday (this week) to answer any questions you might have. He will also be doing a small set-up at the Art Hustle Booth (#576) on Friday from 4-4.30, dolling out free custom sketch trading cards, with a small selection of watercolours (pictured) and other goodies available to purchase as well.
Gone Ninja- One of the many Mr Toast cartoons
Evolution- Dan Goodsell’s entry for Gallery 1988’s Retro Video Game Show
Check out “The Imaginary World” web page here for more information on Goodsell’s hilarious creations, or alternatively, you can e-mail him directly at grickily@yahoo.com with any questions you may have.
(photos- dangoodsell)
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