I did this the day I heard the body of Spalding Gray had been found in the East River. He was a brilliant storyteller who set a trend for all-about-me type monologues. You may recall his film Swimming to Cambodia which was truly revolutionary. I devoured his books and snagged 2nd row seats when he performed at Cal Poly. He was a real life hero to me, and the sad turn his life took really hit me deeply. I wanted to do something dark to mourn his passing, but I didn't want to freeze him in that moment of darkness, so I drew this relatively random image. I still plan to do a portrait of Spalding Gray, but it will be lighthearted and quirky, in honor of his life rather than his death. He's given me many many hours of laughter, I want to return the favor.