Planes and Life

Aircraft are not unlike living beings. When a new aircraft is introduced (just like the birth of a child) there is excitement and anticipation. As that aircraft goes through its life stages, we watch it grow into new versions of the original aircraft. Just like humans it will occasionally have growing pains on its journey throughout its life. As we learn from these growing pains, we see that these aircraft (once shiny and new with unlimited expectations) do have limitations. For instance, the Boeing 747, once considered new and limitless, has shown in today's profit focused world, that it also has its limitations. Although some limitations were overcome with updated versions (747-200, 747-400, 747SP, etc.) we found that (just like aging human beings getting reconstructive surgery) nothing lasts forever (even The Queen of the Skies) and yet, we still love her. The 747 is now getting near the end of its life, as the last variant (the 747-8F) has been delivered and no more new 747's will be built by the Boeing Company. Although we'll still occasionally see older 747's flying here and there, they are now considered elderly aircraft whose time has come and gone and are now trying to find a purpose in life (i.e., reconfigured cargo aircraft, test aircraft or museum pieces ) while they slowly fade away. However, in our hearts and our memories, they will never fade away.

Boeing 747

This is why I love aircraft and continue to honor them, by drawing caricatures of them. Just like humans, each aircraft has its own distinct features. When I look at an aircraft, I don't see aluminum, wiring, composite materials, technology, etc.…I see a personality and a soul. I hope you'll see the personality and soul (that I'm envisioning) when you visit my aviation caricatures at the Michael Hopkins Caricatures Online Store. And if you find a drawing that captures your heart and imagination, make that drawing part of your life by purchasing it, displaying it and sharing it with your friends and loved ones. 

When you fall in love with one of my drawings (presumptuous??) and would like to purchase it, however, the listed price is a bit out of your reach, please feel free to make me an offer. All reasonable offers will be considered, as I would much rather have my creations find a home where they're loved and admired than to hold firm on a price that is just a bit out of a true admirer's reach.