Hello, good morning, afternoon, or evening.    Here's a little info on me:
I'm currently a 21 year old fantasy artist, by the name of  Joe Franchi.  (More commonly known in the art world as "The Joe")    I won't be 21 forever, and  probably won't wanna keep changing my age, so I'll let you know I was born February 28th, 1983.

    At this point in my life, I'm struggling, as I'm sure many at my age are.   I'm striving for recognition in the art industry, and constantly coming up with devious schemes to make that happen.   Well...they're innocent enough, really! 
    I'm also a full time student at my local community college.   A beautiful place in my home town of Blythe, California.   I'm working towards my AA in computer science.  And from there, who knows.

    The highlight of my life now however is my daughter Kaiya Rae, born on July 20th, 2004.   I'm in and out of work, trying to find a steady job.   Which I'm sure, requires a shave and a hair cut, not that I mind...

    Alright, as for my art...
My favorite artists, who double as great inspiration for me, range into the thousands.   But to name several, there are:    Boris Vallejo, Julie Bell, Frank Frazetta, Joe Mad, Adam Kurbert, and Milo Manara.
Mostly they are fantasy artists, but I stray a bit also.    Most of my closest friends, at the home front, and in my internet hangouts, are also great artists, who give me inspiration, help, and support.
    I don't have a set style, as I try a lot of different styles, and create my own variation of each.  Also, I try to look at every one of my pictures as a learning experience, as I do make many mistakes that often come in handy in future pictures.    
    My mediums include graphite, airbrush, Paintshop Pro 7, pen/ink, and occasionally, photoshop.
    The best info I can give to a beginning artist is to do tons of sketches, don't be ashamed of using reference, and look up tutorials.  Google searches are your friend, and there are tutorials on everything.    And last but not least...Artist communities are a great way to get help, and encouragement.   I'm a member of many, and I urge others to join them as well.

    If there's anything I may have left out that's just eating away at your brain, feel free to email me at:  theartking@outgun.com  I'm friendly, and approachable.  lol