Let's go back...
I'm not exactly sure when it was I started on DeviantArt. I know I lurked for a year or two before posting in 2011. There were lots of transformation pics, lots of inflation and expansion images. But then I found a series that I consumed almost instantly.
It was called Showdown at Grave's Dam. And it was this page:
I was kind of blown away (much like the two galoots fightin' on the streets). I'd been exposed to TG before in movies and on DA (and other groups in the early 00's), but this was so interesting. The sequence of A to B, how someone might be changed was so novel. Satin flying out of a bullet wound that transformed someone. Even as I'm typing it now, the idea that a wound could lead to beautiful transformation. Dude. This artist was a poet.
So I gobble up the rest of this comic. It was the kind of innovative TF that I was really looking for.
Then, I saw another I loved. Loli's Curse.
And it kept on rolling from there; me really enjoying Mr-DNA's art, and noticing the trend of amazing sequences, very sexy, but also something I always thought was missing from the community: this wink and admission that this was all very very silly.
It wasn't too long before Mr-DNA was a regular stop for me; always popping in to see what he had posted next. And we come to what I think was a defining moment for me.
It was when he introduced Angela's Magic Lessons. A chain image series starring a young witch just learning to use her powers, transforming, step by step, in ways commissioned by his watchers. It was an amazing idea! One that lead directly into me producing my own: Infinity Warp.
I loved following the short little snippets of change, the paths opening up to entice readers. It was genius. And I loved the character of Angela.
And the stories that were written for each piece and epilog showed a real care for her character. One I decided to follow up on with the comic that featured her: Underburbs.
Joe (who I finally realized had a hu-mon name) and his partner T.J. delivered an amazing tale far richer than the magical TF mishap chains I had been reading before now. Being introduced to Angela Morgan, Winifred Pale, Shelly DeBunkle... I just loved the whole crew.
I have so much more to tell, but I think this entry is getting so long, and GAH. Okay quickly quickly.We've collabbed a little in the past (not enough). He's got a great Patreon that I follow (and so should you, link below!) We became friends during the pandemic (thanks for embarrassing me at Animal Crossing, Joe), but have never met in real life. Something I hope to remedy some day. I hope I can make it to his home town someday, I hope to see my friend and shake his hand. I hope his karaoke crew is as fun it has been in my dreams.
Such a great guy and amazing creator. Just... do yourself a favor. Go support him now.
Joe Haley (Mr-DNA)'s Patreon
PS: Tandy and Zan! This is an amazing couple who's loving relationship often runs afoul (or affair?) of transformation mishaps! Look for a content exchange between Joe and I soon right here on the Patreon, or go search them on his page right now!
PSS: OH! Also Sweater Weather, which is a sequel, and amazing, and that you can read exclusively on his Patreon. Okay done!