Thursday, December 10, 2015

Kingfisher


I recently bought myself some Chinese calligraphy brushes which I've been playing around with over the past few days. I have never known such a deceptive medium, it looks so simple and easy but it's the complete opposite. The ink is so easy to overwork but I think I'm getting there, it just takes practice.

Wednesday, December 9, 2015

Tea Time


I visited chinatown last week and for some reason it felt really nostalgic. I downed some dumplings and wondered through an asian grocer, picking up some special gunpowder tea (my new favourite). I even tested my skills on some chinese instruments and ended up signing up for classes. It was a really good night and when I came home I channeled my new love into this illustration.  

Thursday, December 3, 2015

Nativity


When I think about Christmas I think about family, food and presents. I wish I could say that the first thing that came to mind was celebrating Jesus, but I guess he's been pretty well disguised under all the brands and bargains that adorn this season.

Tuesday, December 1, 2015

Art of Audio


Illustration is one of those practices where you spend big blocks of time with your eyes fixed to a sketchbook, canvas or computer screen. This leaves your ears wide open with nothing to do, so why not fill them with knowledge. I've always listened to music or had the TV on in the background while I illustrate but I've recently taken to listening to podcasts, audiobooks and sermons instead. Like many illustrators, I like to be efficient with my time and work process, so it just made sense to learn something audibly while I was drawing and colouring.

With an overwhelming amount of podcasts online, it's hard to know where to start. The best advice I can give is to find out what you're passionate about and see if there are any podcasts or audiobooks out there that can feed that passion. Try and pick a few different topics that interest you to keep your ears from getting bored. With enough searching you're bound to find something you like and when you do, you'll be hooked!

These are some podcasts I draw inspiration from:
Enjoy!