The backyard bees have been extra busy this summer. They’ve inspired new artwork! Prints are for sale in my Society6 shop.
Final Art / Take Two /
There are several important and necessary steps I complete before tackling the final “perfect” illustration. Almost always, issues are solved during these preliminary stages. By working through a series of thumbnail sketches, a comprehensive drawing, and perhaps a color sketch, I can approach the final art with confidence. I have a clear vision. Occasionally, despite having laid a good foundation, the building collapses. When I complete a painting that I’m just not happy with, there’s really only one solution; throw it away and start over.
Below, are two versions of the same illustration. The first is… okay. I felt the illustration could be stronger. Can you spot the differences in the second version? The changes are subtle but impactful. For me. the second version is more successful.
Version One
Version Two
New Pendant /
I’m exploring a new passion —making jewelry. This pendant is my first multi-stone piece. The turquoise and chrysocolla are like peanut butter and chocolate!
A New Character? /
I’m working on a new picture book. There might be a late addition to the cast…
Encountering John Brown /
I created a series of portraits for a traveling exhibit, ENCOUNTERING JOHN BROWN, that examines Brown’s encounters with important Civil War-era figures. Information about the exhibit may be found at, Overland Traveling Exhibits.
Pen & Ink /
I’m stepping away from the stylus and tablet and dusting off the ink, pens, watercolor paint and brushes. That’s right, I’m going analog for this current project (details coming in a later post). It sure is tactilely satisfying to drag ink across paper!
Damsels & Dragons Notecards /
So… it’s birds AND bugs, I guess. I do love birds, but I’ve got to tell you, I HAD SO MUCH FUN painting these little aerialists! Damsels & Dragons notecards are for sale in my Etsy shop. The set includes eight cards. Each card features an illustration of a different species of dragonfly or damselfly.
Backyard Pond Visitors /
Our backyard pond attracts all kinds of critters. This summer, it’s been fun watching the dragonflies and damselflies flit, dart, and careen near the water. You have to get close to really appreciate the remarkable variety of form and color that distinguishes species. These amazing insects have inspired a series of illustrations that I will post later. For now, check out these close-up pics my wife and I managed to capture.
Blue Dasher
Twelve-spotted Skimmer
Familiar Bluet