Thursday, June 09, 2011

Illustration Friday: SHADOWS



In know, I know - pirates, tropical islands, sea monsters, they're all are so overdone, but still, they're just so… cool. Partially inspired by my crit partner Wendy Martin and partially inspired by my own morning pages doodling… I somehow landed on this image that (I think) has a strong narrative (or maybe you're just thinking - what IS THAT, and what's going on THERE - you tell me?), with the shadows playing a large part in the story telling. I had a lot of fun with this, I somehow managed to give myself a million challenges and I'm happy with the results… but I know what it all is and the basic idea of what's going on - the question is, can everyone else tell?!

Because the shadows where so important to the concept, I decided to do something I haven't done since college and sculpt my own little reference for lighting. I took several photos, collaged different bits together in photoshop and cropped it as if it was a two page spread… although if I really intended this for a picture book piece, I'd probably finish it in color -- but at the moment I want to add more black & white to my portfolio.

Thoughts? I'd love to hear your what you think. :)



**And just a little side note -- after posting this I went and actually spent some time looking at other IF post-ers for this week's theme … and I am just AMAZED. So many unique perspectives, styles, concepts, pov's and just hugely talented people out there! Intimidating AND inspiring. Bravo IF-ers, BRAVO!

4 comments:

Hannah said...

What a fabulous idea. I love your work. Just beautiful. I think I'll have to go look at the rest of your blog :)

Rod MacGregor said...

Love this drawing..totally original and good pencil drawing...I like it when an artist's imagination lands on the paper like this!

ruth said...

Great illustration AND process!

melinda beavers said...

Hiya Hannah, Rod & Ruth - thanks SO much for your comments! Really great to hear you all have enjoyed this piece I worked so hard to get posted before the new theme! ;)

Post a Comment