PP Main Illustration
Portfolio page image
Portfolio Page Main Illustration
An illustration I made to display on my portfolio page. The pencil and paper reference my affinity for painting, drawing, and so forth.
Inspiration
During a trip outdoors, I took a picture of this statue. Her posture is simple but energetic, and I like how easily my eye flows from the bottom of her feet to the top of the torch. The statue's pose would influence the final illustration for the portfolio page.
Study
I began to study the gesture of the statue. I collated my notes into a picture (which you can see on the left). I figured out the main action line of the statue was "S" shaped, and extra elements (like her clothing) also have an "S" shaped action line that follows and aids the main one. Extra things I have noticed is the flow of her anatomy. The "C" curves that make up her legs and torso visually move into one another instead of plainly opposing each other. It is a subtle detail that adds extra dynamism to the overall piece.
Sketching
Here is some early concept work. Influenced by the original statue's torch, I wanted my character to hold or point to something. The first sketch came out a bit wonky and a bit stiff, and while I liked the second a sketch a bit more I didn't like the placement of her arm. So I kept sketching.
Final Sketch
Finally, I found a pose that I liked. I also decided that in one hand she should hold a pencil, and in the other she should indicate to a piece of paper. Below is a comparison between this sketch and the final digital illustration.
Comparison
On the left is the original sketch, and on the right is the final version. The final line-art is much softer compared to the original sketch and some of her proportions were corrected. Other changes include rotating the paper 90 degrees onto its side to create a greater feeling of movement. Put side-by-side with the original, I am pleased with the final version of this drawing.
