David White is a talented illustrator best known for his work on video games such as Mechwarrior 4, but he is also a freelance illustrator focusing on mecha.
Mecha Zone 2 is David's second book; the first only had 200 copies released. It's a hardcover journey through David's mecha designs – not just finished designs, but also glimpses into the process behind creation.
The book features 112 full color pages with 24 unique mecha designs. Each is lovingly rendered in a large format so you can scrutinize every detail.
It's clear to see where his inspiration lies. David grew up on Japanese cartoons like I did – Voltron, Robotech, and Starblazers. Robots are in his DNA. Some of us collect, some of us make stupid websites, but people with actual talent create robots.
I first met David at the 2010 East Coast summit. He had been a fan of the site, and had brought some of his artwork. It was clear right away we were cut from the same cloth. He had brought some of his art to show off and sell, and the work was amazing. The man is seriously talented.
This talent shows through in the book.
Mecha Zone 2 is divided into sections based on types of mecha:
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- Original Mecha
- Phoenix Mecha
- Wareagle Mecha
- Freelance Mecha
- Teamwork Mecha
- Mecha tutorials
mecha,real life
Speaking of the art, there are some cool homages to classic designs, as well as a few you may recognize. Keep an eye out for a transformable Batmobile (although not labeled as such). In fact, one thing you will not find in this book is any of David's art of licensed characters. I've seen his Voltron – it's awesome, but you won't find it here.
Mecha Zone 2 is a book that any fan of mecha and robots would enjoy. You can order your copy at Mechazone.com.
Visit David's website and purchase his book at http://mechazone.com/
Comments
17 comments postedOooh- I want one for me AND my dad, these are awesome!
The art in this book is very gorgeous, and it's nice to see tiny little homages and styles of old shows. The more organic designs remind me a lot of Aura Batter Dunbine, and I really like the airplane mech with the turbines which reminds me of one of the Exo-Squad toys from the 90's. Very awesome stuff.
Very nice, especially the real robot types.
I always enjoy scrutinizing detailed drawings like these. They look great!
I like free stuff.
Josh, thanks for the review!
We are indeed cut from the same cloth and I look forward to the next time we can hang out. I am still interested in doing some reviews for the site. I have some Macross and Dragonar toys that are perfect for the job. Now if only I had the time...
Thanks again and cheers :)
PS: I can't believe no one has pointed out the obvious "I've seen his Voltron joke". Good stuff!
I love mecha art as much as I love actual mecha! And if your thumbnail avatar is any indication, David, that Voltron looks to be magnificent! You're one very talented artist!
It's always nice to see a good mecha artist. In particular, I'm usually no Batman fan, but that transforming Batmobile is really cool.
Long time reader, first time user. Sweet artwork. Keep'em coming!
Very nice indeed! Reminds me of a lot of the best original US market mecha work I've seen over the years in things like JOVIAN CHRONICLES and HEAVY GEAR, but really nice to see it deservingly collected in an art book with a lot of commentary. Good stuff.
This looks really nice! I'm frankly amazed at the ability to draw mecha at all, much less design something as intricate as a transforming mecha. Super cool.
more please!
i want free stuff! :)
You know,I try to draw anime-style stuff just for my own amusement,but people who can do this are amazing to me. I can't fathom picking up a pencil and a ruler and a couple hours later this comes out.
It pains me that I'm not able to do cool stuff like that, but I never get tired of looking at the work of those that can.
Oh man I dig this kind of stuff!!!
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