I’ve been a lifelong fan of the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles, first discovering them through the live-action films of the late 1980s and early 1990s. Those early cinematic experiences left a lasting impression on me and played a significant role in shaping my imagination as a young artist.

This piece began as an opportunity to revisit that formative inspiration while intentionally pushing my technical abilities. I used this work to focus on realism — studying texture, lighting, and form — while still honoring the grit and character that made those original portrayals so compelling.

It represents both a tribute to something that influenced me early on and a deliberate step forward in the evolution of my craft. I plan to continue developing additional TMNT-inspired works as part of an ongoing series.

“Casey Jones”

9”x12”

Colored Pencil and Ink

Feb. 2026