Character Sketches

Happy Father's Day Dad!

I drew this illustration for my Dad--I was very much a tomboy when I was young, and that's my chidhood dog, Captain Jack (a Jack Russell terrier).

Beach Day

Illustration Friday: Slither II

Illustration Friday: Slither

Time to take the snail for a walk.

A Nice Surprise

I got a little package today from Ideals Publications - it was their Fall catalog.  And guess what was on the cover--an image from my recently illustrated book, "How Much Does God Love You," written by Michelle Medlock Adams, neato!!  The book is due out this September.

Illustration Friday: Early

Stretch.....yawn....

 

Color Sketches from "Baby Moose Visits"

Here are a couple different versions of baby moose.  I'll probably go for the more characterized version on top since he'll be doing some goofy things like jumping on the bed and making mischief.  I didn't think a realistic drawing like the one below would fit as well with the humorous subject matter.  I also wanted slightly disproportionate legs - extra long and clumsy (the art director suggested this too).

Baby Moose Visits Sketches

Hi everyone, I'm sorry I've been away from the ol' blog for so long.  Sometimes things get hectic and--you know how that is.  Anyways, my current book is the adorable "Baby Moose Visits" written by Linda Glaser.  I've thumb-nailed (made tiny sketches of all the spreads) the book and am now working on character sketches:

Irritated Earthworm

Mole's habit of building home extensions at two in the morning did not make him very popular with his neighbors.

Transferring Sketches With A Printer

*Edit: I corrected the title spelling, that's what I get for posting late at night lol

I have always used a light table to transfer my sketches to watercolor paper. A VERY time consuming process that almost doubled the amount of time it took me to complete books.  I'd watch a movie or listen to music while I mind-numbingly traced over my lines with a pencil.   Not to mention the times I've messed up on a painting and had to transfer for a second and some cases a third time.  So, what if I could cut that process out completely? If I did, I could possible fit in one, maybe two more projects per year and therefor have an easier time making a living as an illustrator.  I could meet deadlines much quicker as well.  Well there IS a way, but it will take an initial, fairly large investment to do it. I'm talking about large-format printers (to fit those larger double page picture books spreads). What I'd do is scan a clean sketch, lighten the lines until they're barely visible with Photoshop and print it directly on my watercolor paper. And if I mess up? No problem! I'll just print another copy. I know some illustrators have been doing this for years, but I guess I waited for the prices on these printers to drop more. I remember back when I checked on them they were averaging around 5k a piece (?) Ugh! Now they're definitely more affordable although still enough to make me hold my breath. 

Since I'm only on the sketching phase of my current book, I'll probably wait until the final art is under-way to get one. But when I do, I'll post my experiences with the new printer.

Also, please post a comment if you yourself have transferred sketches this way. Thanks!

A Daily Dose of Inspiration

An illustration from start to finish by P.J. Lynch

Illustration Friday: Subterranean

How Cool is This?

Recently, I was approached by LuShae Jewelry to write a review about a product of my choosing, and of course I jumped at the chance.  I love their designs, and here's the kicker, I got to keep the item for free.  I didn't even have to pay shipping either, so thank you LuShae!

Above is the ring I chose, entitled "Kissing Hearts Ring", created in a Rhodium- High Lustre finish, it retails for $64.00 on the LuShae website.  It really has become one of my favorite rings.  And let me add, there were a couple days when it mysteriously disappeared.....want to know why?  My grandmother, who has alzheimer's disease (but still knows something pretty when she sees it) had at some point wandered in my room and picked it up off my crowded dresser.  I thought for sure I had lost it forever, but then later found it on her finger.  Now we share the ring :0)

So, I really couldn't be happier with their product, and I already see plenty of other beautiful pieces on their site I'd like to get.  As an aside, I did a bit of of Googling and some research before I agreed to do this in order to protect my readers, and so far I've read nothing but rave reviews about their costumer service and products. 

Anyways, thanks again to Sarah and I do apologize for the delay in writing this post.  I had a couple deadlines to attend to. 

You can visit the LuShae website here

Illustration Friday: Brave

High Five Cover Sketch

This is for the September issue.  I added lots and lots of detail to this illustration so that the kids could have fun pointing out all the different toys.  Hopefully the art director/editors like it and I can go to color! :0) Painting this should be a nice challenge.  The different shapes, circle and rectangle are all design parts of the magazine, titles etc.

A Way Back Into Love (Illustrated by Jimmy Liao)

Images are from the book "A "Chance of Sunshine" by Jimmy Liao.  Video created by youtube user: broadcasthere.

Make sure to watch at full size: A Way Back Into Love

Vocals:
Haley Bennett
Hugh Grant

Illustration Friday: Perspective

Style Two

I'm working on a new pen-and-ink style to add to my portfolio.  It will probably take a while to develop, but I had some fun doing a pen-and-ink version of my magazine cover idea (not one I'm submitting).  I'll probably do a few more to see if it's something I'd enjoy--because that's what it all comes down to, right?

Cover

This is a rough sketch for a magazine cover.  Can you guess which one? :0) Still lots of work to be done to it, but I wanted to make sure the art director liked the general idea before I spent a bunch of time on details and tightening it up.

I used to completely bury myself in stuffed animals (my personal bodyguards against monsters and such) when I went to bed.  My parents had to practically dig me out of the pile lol!  I had an orange gorilla that was especially tough, along with my Garfield and Ody stuffed toys.

A Note Hung On the Wall of A Jack Reid Instruction Class

This speaks volumes:

Luminosity
Value
Design/composition


NOT trees, people, rocks, water, houses, barns!  


SHAPES!

In other words he's saying to concentrate on the overall impact of your painting instead of getting too lost in details and specifics too early.  View your objects and figures as shapes in relation to composition.  Good stuff!

Learning New Things

I'm reaching the end of a deadline with a little space in between to try some of my own experiments and work on a story I've had stashed away.  Most of all, I want to work on my watercolor techniques.  The way I paint with watercolors has truly been a trial-and-error sort of thing.  Step-by-step books just couldn't hold my attention for very long because I hated copying someone else's painting.  And, if I tried to force myself to do it for the sake of learning, it would drain my original excitement for the medium right out of me.  But, I want to learn still, because I know there are many tools and techniques that I have missed, which therefor ends up limiting my ability to express my ideas on paper--and I surely don't want that.  So I'm going to try again with a watercolor book: "Watercolor Basics - Let's Get Started" by Jack Reid.  From what I've seen in the preview on amazon it looks like a good book, and plus it starts with a philosophy about painting that I agree with whole-heartedly:

"The most important piece of equipment won't cost you anything at all: attitude.  If you're looking for shortcuts or gimmicks, you won't find them in this book.  The best kind of attitude to bring to any new endeavor is a firm belief in hard work.  Some books promise to make watercolor painting easy and order you to "have fun."  Well, I disagree.  Though I'll keep things as simple as possible throughout this book, simple doesn't mean easy.  You have to work at this marvelous medium the same way a singer must train her voice or a musician must practice his instrument.  In other words, you'll need to master the basics.  I've always ascribed 10 percent of my own success to inspiration and 90 percent to perspiration." -Jack Reid

On My Desk

I'm going to be completing the rest of the final art for "How Much Does God Love You" over the next several days.  This is one of my favorite images from the book so far.  I'm really paying close attention to the colors this time around and pushing my comfort level with the brightness and saturation.  I have to say, I'm much happier with the results!  I think this makes the art more camera ready and also gives the person in charge of reproducing the art a break, since they don't have to adjust saturation levels digitally. 

I'm not yet sure of the release date, but of course when I find out I'll post it here.

My Illustration For the Auction

The Butterfly

This measures over two feet in length and about 8 inches high.  I actually stood up for half of the painting because I couldn't reach both sides from my chair lol. 

Lend Us A Paw

Hi all, I was recently contacted by Vanessa Brown who volunteers for a Weimaraner rescue league.  They are putting on an auction to raise money and are looking for illustrators to donate a drawing/painting/illustration to auction off--here's a quote:

"The funds we receive from your donation will enable us to provide medical care for the 150+ dogs who come through our doors next year.  It takes a lot of money to care for these animals before we find them the loving homes they deserve.  We have been so blessed by generous people, companies & organizations such as yours.  We are thankful for any support you can provide our organization in our quest to rescue & re-home these wonderful animals.  I would be happy to provide a copy of our IRS paperwork upon request."

I'll be donating an illustration, anyone else out there want to help?  If so email:  Vanessabrown7304 At aol.com (I wrote it that way to avoid spam bots).

As someone who has worked for dog rescue leagues before I can say for a fact that even the smallest bit of money could allow one more additional dog to be fed, fixed and fostered.   So yes, one drawing can make a big difference.

Thanks!

Babybug Sketch

Here's a sketch for the July/August issue of Babybug magazine.  The wonderful poem is blurred since I'm not allowed to share the spread until after publication.  Slight changes were made in the final art - the pig has a bubbly brush and is scrubbing the top of his head with it. Really fun project, I can't wait to see it reproduced on their high quality, glossy paper.

Intermission

I have been snowed in for almost a week now, unable to leave my house and hoping the electricity/heat wouldn't go out (it hasn't so far, phew!).  Nothing new to post yet, but I promise I will soon after I dig out and get back to a normal schedule.  I'll also be answering my emails soon, as I've fallen behind on that as well. 

Till then, here is a Ralph Fiennes Intermission:

Step By Step for: BEE!

Snow Bear

In those rare moments when I can focus on the here and now (instead of what I need to do tomorrow, or should have done yesterday), it's so peaceful and wonderful. I just wish I could achieve that sense of trust in the world more often.

Illustration Friday: Focused (2)

Pig Pig's Driving Guide: always stay focused on the road

Illustration Friday: Focused (High Chair Bounty)

This old dog is focused on possible food drops - but he probably won't be getting the steak he's hoping for.

This was inspired by my dog's super-sonic-speed realization that baby chairs equaled food, while my nieces were visiting.

Baby Banquet

This is a sketch for my illustration friday submission. Whether I can get it painted or not in time for Friday is another story. :0\

Art Materials and Process!

Hello again, is everyone else looking forward to spring like me? The little bit of upper 50's today gave me a bit of spring fever today!

Anyways, I thought I'd make a post about what materials I use. I've written emails to plenty of illustrators asking what they use and am always checking the copyright section of books for the same info. So, here's a list of my own materials, plus a list of what I typically do with them.

1. When I have an idea of what subject I want to draw I start with tiny thumbnail sketches (small sketches barely an inch or two big) to figure out composition and test ideas quickly. Then after I do a few (or lots depending how difficult the image is) I choose which one I like best and use that as I guide.

2. I sketch a larger version of that chosen thumbnail complete with full details and really flesh it out. If I'm still unhappy I either manipulate parts of the sketch with Photoshop, or completely start over.

3. If I have the time, I let the drawing sit on my desk for an hour or so (sometimes I can't wait though and dive right in lol). That way I get a fresh look at it and I can see mistakes easier. OR you can use the 'transform/horizontal' feature in photoshop which gives you an immediate mirror view--or just look at it in the mirror. All those ways will bring out most of what is wrong with the drawing. Then I correct the problems.

4. I bring out a light box, cut a piece of 140lb hot press (or cold if I have to do a lot of large washes) Arches watercolor paper and tape my sketch under it. Then I place the whole thing on my light box so the sketch shows through the watercolor paper and I trace the sketch.

5. Then I take scotch tape and tape the watercolor paper to my desk along all four edges. I don't really have a set rule in terms of painting the background first or the characters first, it just depends on what I feel like, or what would be best for that particular illustration. Anyways I usually do a lot of layering with Windsor & Newton Artist's watercolors, and red sable brushes (mid-range expense-wise).

6. Sometimes I speed up drying with a hairdryer. When I'm done I let it stay taped overnight so it dries nice and flat.

Anyways, to recap, or for those who are just interested in the materials:

1. Windsor & Newton Artist's series watercolors (tube)
2. Various red sable/half synthetic brushes
3. Artograph Lightracer Light box (by far the most comfortable light box I've found so far.)
4. Arches cold press or hot press 140lb watercolor paper
5. I buy most of my stuff from dickblick.com - excellent art site with good prices, and even if you choose the lowest costing shipping, they surprise you with fast shipping anyway. I've used them for years.

Quick comment on art materials: if you can afford it, don't skimp on paints, or paper - because you really do get what you pay for. The difference between painting on student grade paper with cheap watercolors and on artist grade paper with quality watercolors is night and day. Watercolors do last quite a while though, at least for me (and I paint a lot!).

Have fun :0)

Here Comes The Mailman, Risky!

I decided to test out the video feature of my Sony Cybershot camera. Here, Risky the studio assistant stars in her first film. Not a whole lot going on but boy does her charismatic, subtle acting carry the show. Surprisingly she's only a tad concerned about the mailman - yet goes bonkers over the UPS guy. Probably because he's always ringing the doorbell. I'll have to catch that on film too.



Sorry the video isn't fitting correctly, just click on the whole thing and it will take you to Youtube where you can view it at the right size.

A Walk in the Park

Risky (studio assistant/partner in crime) and I went for a walk at the local park. I'd never seen the lake completely frozen over before so I took a couple photos:



On the left is a bird who had bore himself a hole to fish out of. Looked like he was catching plenty because he was constantly eating and picking.



The ice was bluer than the sky it was reflecting.

More Layering

After I let the below illustration dry for an hour or so, I went back and intensified colors, smooth things over and added more details. I consider this one done!

On My Desk

Yeah..... this desktop has been through years of Higgins ink abuse, sorry about that lol.
Another illustration from "How Much Does God Love You" - it's taped to the desk so it dries flat. In the left-hand corner is chapstick...which I don't use because it's the flavored kind. And it feels more like I'm rubbing sticky honey on my lips than anything helpful.

Also, some good news. I got a job with Babybug magazine--yay! And I get to draw piggies. What could be better than drawing piggies? Not a whole lot! :0)

Book Sample

From How Much Does God Love You tenderly written by Michelle Medlock Adams

I used all sorts of fun mediums for this one: black ink for the sky, acrylics for the stars and watercolor and pencil for everything else. A very challenging and fun piece!

Doh! Missing Blogs Links For My Pals

Ok a while ago I tried to move some of my blog links over to that widget that allows you to show the most recent posts of each blog, but decided halfway through that it would take me hours to transfer them over. So I moved them back and lo and behold it seems I'm missing some of my previous links (favs too!). Please let me know if your link has gone a-missing because I do NOT remove links unless the blog is no longer in use or someone hasn't posted in their blog for over a year or something. If it's gone, it's a mistake and I would love for you to let me know (please please pretty please?)

Borders!

Wow it's a Cow was in the Border's Baby section!

If I reach ninety years of age, and I'm still a children's illustrator, I'll probably always take photos of my books when I find them in stores. It really is a surreal sort of feeling and I don't think it will ever get to be old hat.

Blogs I'm Diggin'

Scott Nelson

Full of wonderful sketches, insightful posts and of course, eye candy galore.

A Couple Moleskine Sketches

Book Layouts

Flower