Often I have an idea in my head for an illustration that I can and will sketch out but it helps to have some points of reference. I had an few ideas for an illustration I was asked to do for the RPG (role playing game) called Burning Wheel. The illustration in question asked for a cool action shot. So, I had to get my actor/ action hero face on- meaning I ham it up while Laura takes some pictures.
I don't remember the exact description, but I think it was about special light chain mail which allowed for speedy movement. I actually got an idea for the pose from a Bouguereau painting.
Here is the image I came up with.
Copyright © 2011, Burning Wheel and Richard Luschek |
I think the black socks are nice touch. It is also funny to note that I am holding an arrow for some reason. This was before I got a cool sword to use for reference. I think you can see I did not copy it exactly, but it did help me tremendously to figure out a spacing gesture. It is also a wonderful way to understand the light and shadow on complicated forms. For a painting I would want more reference from nature, but as these are small pen and ink drawings the info in the photo is enough.
Here is another one for Burning wheel.
Last year I also drew a female magician with her imp helper. My wife posed for the lady and I posed for the imp.
Copyright © 2011, Burning Wheel and Richard Luschek |
Here was the description I got from Luke Crane the creator of the game.
"Full Figure. 5" high final size.
Using the same template for the sorceress you did for us in the last book (because that is one of my favorite BW illustrations ever) Let's have her holding staff and sword -- all Gandalf-like -- while casting a spell. Bonus points for including her homunculus again!"
Copyright © 2011, Burning Wheel and Richard Luschek |
Of course I made such a good imp, I got my actor face on and posed again.
Copyright © 1969, My Mother and Father |