Sabriel Book Cover

Some may have noticed (maybe not) that I haven't been posting on scheduled Wednesdays and Fridays. Because of my schedule this semester, I think I'm going to change up my blog post dates to Tuesdays and Thursdays. This way I'll be able to get back to posting regularly since my days aren't as busy then. So brace yourselves for a post tomorrow and the coming Tuesday!

In the meantime, I just finished my book cover version for Garth Nix's Sabriel. Below are process pictures along with the final version.

First there were thumbnails. And they were good. I came up with several ideas and then went with the one I felt strongest about (middle right). I also liked the bottom right corner idea, but felt like the composition was more interesting with the latter thumbnail.

The drawing!

I did a few value studies then settled on my values, moving onto a color study. Sometimes in the past I've been too impatient in starting a piece and skip these two vital steps. Never again. It makes the actual painting process much more fun since I found myself way less confused and angry when I would get lost. Guides are great to have, as it turns out! Just running blindly into the forest isn't always the best idea as I've discovered after years of getting lost in its midst.

And the final illustration! This was drawn in graphite and ebony pencil, then painted with inkwash and some white gouache for details. I then scanned it and did some photoshopping for textures, color correction, and value pushes. I really enjoyed working traditionally and digitally.

Let me know what you think!

See you all tomorrow on the interwebs when I get back to my new posting schedule!