Grandfather Triptych

When trying to work out an idea I find that it's helpful to draw the same picture several times incorporating a different style each time. Each style reveals something unique about the subject. The above drawing was my first pass which is basically me being fairly faithful to the source picture. Below is an earlier version of the second drawing. 

 I decided to try out a warm monochromatic look for my second drawing. This was done in a quicker sketchier style than the first. I especially like how this one and the first look next to each other, but at the same time I don't really feel like anything new has been brought to the portrait. Below is the beginning stage of the third drawing.

I like the simplicity of this version, but I had to take it further. 

The third version realized. I really like how this one came out, it's probably my favorite of the three. I love the discovery process of art, how one project will lead you to an idea that probably would have never formed on its own. I feel like this is direction I'd like to explore more. 

Body Art

Have you ever really looked into the world of competitive body building? It's a very strange place and at the same time totally fascinating. I couldn't help but draw one of them. 

Face of Wood

Even though it's been over a year since my first attempt at wood carving, I'm still fascinated by the technique and am slowly practicing my skills. Here's another attempt at a face. One of these days I'll get a block of wood big enough to do a face in the round. 

Big Brown Eyes

Hey folks, here's something I did for fun while playing around with ink wash. 

Kithaba the Sailor Man

I feel like I gave you guys a fair warning that you might start seeing portraits of the background creatures from Return of the Jedi on here. Well that time has now come to pass! This is Kithaba, a Klatoonian from Jabba's skiff in Return of the Jedi (I had to look part of that info up). As you can see, instead of his usual garb I decided to dress him up as an American sailor from the 1940s. Between you and me I think he wears it quite well. Just look out for him when he's on shore leave. 

Which breed of dog do you think he was inspired by? My guess is Boxer.

Of Beards and Bees

I haven't had much time these days for sketching but I plan on getting back into it now that most of the work for the Advanced Style Coloring Book is done. A couple of years ago I was working on a series that combined antique portraits and insects. I always felt like there was more to explore there so I decided to revisit the concept in this drawing. Hope you like it!

2 For The Price of None

It's been three weeks and I completely spaced on posting the final two complimentary coloring book images so I've decided that today's post is going to be a double whammy. Enjoy!

On a somewhat related note I've been plugging away on the Advanced Style Coloring Book which is tentatively due out in November. You can pre-order it on Amazon.com and apparently there's a sale going on? Anyhow, check it out and save 28%.