Hen

Just a doodle. Simple and not overworked...Now to carry this spontaneity to finished work.

Checking In

I have been unable to post with any regularity over the past several months due to commitments both personal and business. I trust you all managed to struggle on without me or my mindless ramblings here.

I have been continuing to explore a "dryer" look for some of my illustration work. Here is a quick sample piece I have worked with Derwent Coloursoft pencils. I really like the soft dusty feel and hope, after some more experimentation to start incorporating it into some more major pieces and book illustrations.

My Outdoors...again!

Another installment of a My Outdoors by Steve Galea.

This time centered around two young girls disappointment in their fathers misunderstanding of of their interest in seeing the Bieber House.

Blood Oath

The decision is in

So I did get approval on one of the roughs I sent in and they chose the one I most wanted to do. A welcome if not rare treat.

And so with deadlines being what are, I moved quickly to finish it. I tried a little further experimentation with a softer chalkier look. I like it and will be working towards refining it more. Here then is the end result of my efforts ....such as it is.

The Process

Just thought I might post a little of the process I go through each month as I set to illustrate the "My Outdoors" back page humor story written by my good friend Steve Galea.

In this months entry, Steve goes on, as only he can, about picking, purchasing and keeping live bait for fishing. Moreover how the opposite sex often fails to see the romantic potential implied by a fella when he so seductively whispers to his special gal, that..... "he's got worms". ( his line, not mine)

So today I rough up a few ideas and have submitted these three concepts to my art director. I think each one has it's own charm and possibilities. While I wait for word to come down from my editors with regards to which one they wish for me to complete, perhaps a few of you might like to weigh in on which one is most interesting (if any)?

Whichever one my art director selects, I'll be sure to post the finished piece here when I am cleared to do so.

Warm-up Sketch

I took a couple of days off over the weekend. It was a rare but welcome change of pace.

So this morning just to get my head and hands back into things, I did this little warm up sketch of a hummingbird in our garden, while I drank my morning coffee on the back porch.

Working quickly, applying my colors wet into wet gave me an effect that pleased me and one I will explore more in my work. Oh and the spring palette is a welcome change of pace as well.