Communication Arts Illustration Competition

So, thanx to Bruno, I got to submit my piece to this Communication Arts Illustration Competition. And even though I had only 2 days to make "something", I was able to make the deadline! Yay me! Yay 6 hours of sleep in 2 days!

I admit, I wasn't gonna show it to anybody because I feel it could use at least 5 more hours of work. I like it ok, but I'm not totally happy with it. But I know I must stop this lame behavior; being afraid to show my stuff. So here it is.

One of my art teachers in college has told me to make up some awesome explanation for my work when I told him I had nothing to say about it. I don't know, maybe the dude's right, then again, sometimes it's just what it is; a picture.

I think I'm going to let everybody's imagination go wild and come up with a fantastical story of their own about a girl riding on a sea turtle.

I had a really agonizing time coming up with an idea, but once I knew where I was going, I had much fun working on it.

I'm excited to do more illustrations like this one.

Portrait Project #4

Another 1.5 hours.

Worked on the hair, and adjusted the skin tone.
The background was modified as well.

I feel it's coming along nicely (slowly though). I guess it's time to decide on the outfit. Between the more modern sea captain attire and the classic one, I'm leaning towards the classic. I want him look like a true British (sea) captain that he is.

Time wise, I'd say a few more hours, but no more. It's taking way too long. This is not because I'm working super slow, but because I spend a few hours one night, take a break for a few days, and spend a few more.
I've got to finish it before I get bored with it.

Portrait Project #3

Another 1.5 hours or so have been spent.


Mostly added shadow and more volume to the hair at the top (higher hair!).


The hair needs much more work. I'm not sure what more I can do to the actual face, other than refining the details and smoothing the overall surface.