Ancient Work

Years ago when I was just preparing to work as an illustrator, I built up the courage to contact an illustrator I had admired for years, who had actually been one of my inspirations, to see if he would be willing to take a look at some of my work and possibly give some advice. I don't know where I got the idea to call him out of the blue but I was young and ignorant and didn't know any better. I was shocked when he answered the phone and agreed to look over a few copies of my work. After throwing up on myself, I immediately FedEx-ed the pieces to him and called him back later in the week.

 Under the circumstances, he would have had every right to give the barest minimum of feedback simply to get back to work. And I would have been perfectly happy with that. But he spent an hour on the phone with me pointing out the good and bad (and there was much more bad than good).

 Above is one of the pieces I sent. That opera singer is my very first attempt at watercolor illustration. Tons of washes and pencil. It also represents most of the things he pointed out that was lacking in my work: lack of detail and research.

 He pointed out that the bracelet looks like something from a superhero costume: generic and techie, not authentic to the subject. Same for the breast-plate: the shoulder and waist straps, again, look like they're from a comic book, not really reality-based; and the front looks like generic bowls with no character; they also resemble the floor lights at the bottom. And he pointed out that the curtain in the back was a wasted opportunity for ornamentation.

 I learned two things from that little critique session:

• Never be afraid to approach an artist whose work you admire. Yes, you will encounter the occasional dysfunction, but more often than not,  they are willing to talk. Just be mindful of their time.
• Research the detail. Ground your work in reality, even if it's fantastical. Even if it's cartoony. People will more easily relate to the piece if you've put in the time to research. It adds depth and character to the work. I  missed an opportunity to go to town on the bracelet and breastplate; to make them outrageously ornate; to fit the over-the-top nature of the subject.

Anyway, sharing time is over. Thought you might get a kick.

Comments

[Nick Perkins]

Thank you for sharing this, Gerald. Those of us who still have a lot to learn appreciate it when the pros share some of their experiences!

[Gerald Kelley]

Nick,

Thanks for dropping by! Always glad to offer whatever I can!