IF "infinite"

Wow, tough topic. Infinite can be such an abstract concept... I think I'm getting the hang of this blogger business. Here's my submission for this week:


And two close-ups:

That's 'Sammy' gazing at the infinite number of stars in the night sky.

getting into a rhythm

Meet 'Sammy'. He is the character I've been developing over this past week. His personality is inspired by at least 3 other 'Sammy' dogs that we know. The character itself is drawn after the looks of a Boston Terrier, but obviously the color is different.

This week's topic was: welcome. Again the ideas gave birth to mounds of sketches and ideas, but two rose to the top as favorites as I also considered 'Sammy'.

I used watercolor in both these pieces, with the exception of ink on some of the details.

The squirrels ran up the tree away from Sammy. They chattered, "You're not welcome here!"

As if it isn't hard enough...

I think I'll limit myself a bit.

With Illustration Friday, each topic provides numerous sketches and ideas, but I have to narrow it down. My thoughts this morning were, "why don't I cultivate a specific character to use for each week's topic?" I still have the freedom to pursue the other sketches and ideas. And really, I'm not limiting myself, but rather giving a more specific direction... one week is rather short to really throw together a grand composition, all the while managing our home, caring for our son, cooking, cleaning, shopping...

I made a list once, regarding all of my responsibilities and qualifications by working in our home:

Job title: CEO, March Residence, est. 2006
Description: Domestic Engineer
Home Management Specialist
Director of Health, Education and Welfare
Head of Childcare: MOM (Manager of Miracles)
Creative Director
Kitchen Manager - Head Chef, Baker & Meal Planner
Facilities Manager
Housekeeper
Counselor
Secretary - Maintain Records, Write/Proof/Edit Publications

Whew. I was tired just looking at it! And we only have 1 little boy... imagine 2, or 3, or... WeLL, I'll just leave it at that!

Anyway, I'll be working on my character and focusing on the creative process that goes with that. I'll have another I.F. submission hopefully by next Thursday!

I.F. Take 2

Each weeks topic from Illustration Friday reminds me of sketchbook assignments from high school art classes with Miller & Braun. For me, unless I'm hit with an idea immediately, I can be very indecisive and spend too much time in the planning/brainstorming...


This week's topic was: strong. I ended up doing two pieces, mainly because the first I wasn't happy with, and then after finishing the second, I was happier with the first! They are both mixed media - watercolor & ink. The first I painted on the color, and then drew in the lines. It looks messy to me.

The second was a thoughtful composition that I rushed to finish as my toddler competed for my attention. Dinner had to be cooked, and Friday is almost here! Not really satisfied with either pieces, especially since more time and thought could have been dedicated to them. Never-the-less, here they are!



The daisy must be awfully strong to hold up that beetle!


Edelgard the dragon looks on eagerly as Prince Andrew climbs the rope up the tower to rescue Princess Galiana. The only thing stronger than that rope is his love for her... (Edelgard had long awaited a Prince worthy of rescuing the Princess from her tower!) Silly, I know!

back in the saddle again

After toying for a while with the idea of working from home in art/illustration, I've finally decided to commit to it and give it a go. I'm learning the complexities and challenges of attempting to work from home, all while maintaining my role as wife & mommy - support from family & friends has been a great encouragement!

Illustration Friday is a great website that a friend introduced me to, at least 6 months ago or more. They send out weekly topics to inspire and motivate new artistic creations. I'll be sharing my projects here on this blog and I'd love to hear from you!

This week's topic was: magnify.