The Cowardly Viking

In an attempt to grow as an artist, I felt that I needed to illustrate more narrative type pieces.  It also helps that I’ve been taking Mark McDonnell’s clothed figure quick sketch class @ LAAFA: it’s been forcing me to tell a story with the pose.  It’s one of those classes that’s hard and fun at the same time.  I’d also suggest buying his new book The Art and Feel of Making it Real as it elaborates on Walt Stanchfield’s gesture drawing notes.

Now back to my blog post.  This illustration consists of things that are lacking in my portfolio: storytelling, digital painting, environment. What better way to improve than trial by fire?

When I was in the thought process for this illustration, I wanted to come up with my own version the reluctant hero. In fact, I didn’t make him heroic at all: I made him more of a coward than anything else. My teacher suggested that I give him an oversized axe to compensate for his lack of courage, and I built upon it by giving him oversized horns as well.

I had a lot of fun with this piece because it was something totally new for me and I think it helped me get out of the creative funk I’ve been lately.  Anyways, for the 3-4 people who follow the site: let me know what you think.  cheers.

Link Em:
Mark McDonnell
The Art and Feel of Making it Real

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  By emily, May 20, 2009 @ 5:54 pm

  Nice job, Carl I love the paint washy background.

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