IF - Propagate

No matter what she did, the gum continued to grow around her.

Yes, I'm going for another possible stretch of the word for the week! I am working off of this definition: "to cause to spread out and affect a greater number or greater area." I was proud of this illo that I did quite a while ago, and have been wanting to paint and post her, so I thought this a good opportunity. I drew it, I think, in response to a previous IF, but I can't remember...

I have found that I don't like the sizing in the watercolor paper. I am sure if I stretched the paper, it would become a none issue. But for these small illos and experiments, it is more of a hassle. I like working on illustration board, but I have been using a thin version, which of course curls when wet. I am going to pick up some thicker paper today and see how that works.

On another note, I recently discovered the art of Matt Phelan while picking up some books for the kids at the library (I got "Always" by Ann Stott*). I love the sketchy looseness in his art, and the simplicity in the layering in his watercolor, something I aspire to achieve (I tend to overwork my pieces at times). Check out his site and blog if you have the chance.

*Can someone explain to me why many published authors and illustrators are sucked into a land of oblivion with no other reference to themselves except for the small "spotlight" located deep in the publisher's website. Is this a contractual thing that they can't have their own website? Just curious.

IF - Muddy

Well, I missed the deadline for IF this week, but since they keep it up a bit afterwords, I thought I'd post it anyway! I am really pleased with this illustration, both in the composition and painting. Two things I would change are the amount of yellow in the painting (different color shirt maybe), and the dog's muzzle (looks ok, but could be better). I try not to get too caught up in perfect anatomy in my drawings as that is not what I want, but I do want body parts (animal or human) to be in proper proportion to the whole figure.

Anyway, I really like this. I probably could have done it on time, but I still get a bit intimidated about putting brush to paper. (I hate to have to redo stuff.)

Oh, and the illustration represents the moment directly after you have washed and dried your dog! Not sure if it is done out of spite, or to save face in front of other dogs! : P

IF - Focused

These snowman are focused on their passions. Yeah, a bit of a stretch, but it works! : D

This is another quick painting to get in more practice with watercolors, and develop convincing shadows. I like it, but the shadows are a bit harsh, making them look like a spotlight is on them (which I guess is OK considering their activities!). I know the sunset doesn't fit, but yet is another experiment!

Thanks for stopping by!