Paul Combs's Blog (375)

If you've ever had someone vent windows without coordinating their efforts with your hose team, then you'll empathize with these two firefighters. Whimsical look at a very dangerous situation.

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Thought I'd share my September 11th, 2001, related artwork that has been created over the past ten years.



I Will Remember!…

Just because it's entertainment or funny to you, doesn't mean it has a place in the firehouse. Use a little discretion and self-control, please!

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Once a firefighter, always a firefighter - in this life and beyond!

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Here's my August Fire Engineering magazine editorial illustration. Yep, I'm sure many of you can relate!!

To buy a print of this illustration, visit:

http://artstudioseven.com/page-fire-ems-prints.htm

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Who needs rock stars when you have pipers? For over 150 years, pipers and drummers have been serving the fire service during parades, special events, conventions, retirements, ceremonies, and of course, funerals for our fallen. I still get chills when I hear bagpipes – anywhere, anytime, it never fails. There’s a swell of pride knowing that these are OUR rock…

Hollywood movie plots can be so far removed from reality that the viewer has to wonder which planet the protagonist and antagonist are actually playing out their epic conflicts. Mega-bombs, apocalyptic super viruses, shoot-outs were no one runs out of ammunition, or an insane high speed chase through congested city streets. All so extravagant in their role playing…

From time to time I get asked if I ever worry about inuring my hand or eyes fighting fires. My answer is always a swift and confident "no"! My explanation sometimes leaves people puzzled, but I try and explain that if I think about injury, injury will most certainly happen. It's much like an athlete who throws their body into stressful situations with little regard…

While stumbling around the web the other day, I found this Fire Engineering cover from the June,1960 issue. The longer I studied this photo, the greater the sense of pride I felt for being a contributor to Fire Engineering. I began thinking about all the great men whose footsteps I now follow and the rich history and heritage of the fire service. This dramatic photo speaks volumes to me and humbles me as I begin to draw my next editorial illustration.



It…

Buy a print of this illustration, visit:
http://artstudioseven.com/page-fire-ems-prints.htm

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You gotta love those frequent flyers!

Buy a print of this illustration:
http://artstudioseven.com/page-fire-ems-prints.htm

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My first June commentary speaks to the perception that firefighters are not worth the money and benefits they have fought so hard to obtain - and to the epiphany when the contrary is realized.

In short, last November Ohio defeated SB5 which would have severely limited the bargaining procedures of public employee unions. This only after a lofty battle…

Well, as promised, here's my one-two punch commentary regarding fire service obesity (see previous blog post). We are aggressive when it comes to the hot-button dangers of lightweight construction, seat-belts, excessive speed, smoke toxins, etc... and all are important topics. But let's not forget the literal and metaphorical elephant in the room - our own weight and…

Wildfire season is already in full swing for many regions, and things look to get much, much worse before the end of this summer. Here's a light-hearted Fire Line look at things to come. Enjoy, and stay safe out there!

To see more of Paul's work, or to purchase prints, please visit…

To all our active, wounded, and retired warriors – and to all who made the supreme sacrifice… THANK YOU!!  Take a moment today to remember what freedom really is, and the blessing that we have as citizens in the USA. Freedom isn't free, and we ALL owe a tremendous debt to those who give, and gave us this…

We all know one - the firefighter/officer so obsessed with advancement that they act, do, and say anything to self-promote their narcissistic agenda. Consequently, it is no surprise that city politicians tend to love these folks because of their willingness to become political puppets.



So, congratulations! If you've made it to the pedestal on the backs of…

Ego eats much more than brains - it devours everything that is good within your department! Unfortunately the people afflicted with this domineering behavior rarely notice they're the one with the problem. Everyone else, however, can see the shark! Very…

Well, as promised, I will be posting sketches created during this year's FDIC. I will update this post as I complete the drawings in turn - enjoy! And if you recognize yourself, don't send hate mail - remember, it's all in good fun:)

Sunday, April 15th, 2012

This gentleman had just checked in at the registration desk and was obviously VERY excited…

FDIC is a very special event! It brings together the best instructors, best hands-on training, best classroom seminars, and the absolute best experience in the fire service! If you're serious about your training and have a passion for knowledge, this is the place to be.



Looking forward to catching up with friends, too! I will be there all week…

There's no one more valuable than a mentor. I personally have many and cherish each as a dear friend! I hope they know what a huge difference they've made in my life and career as an artist and a firefighter. I'm sure each of us can name many who have shaped and molded us into who we are today. And I can think of no better repayment than to give the same gift…