The Style

Most artists have a style, a way that they draw characters or things that is distinct to them. It makes them stand out, so when you look at their work you can say, "oh yeah, that's a Rembrandt, a Picasso," etc. From what I understand, beginning artists work on developing their style through exercises, copying other artists, taking what they like from here and there, and eventually creating something that is  their own. This is similar to a writer developing a "writer's voice," which is something I'm more familiar with.

If I had to categorize my art, I'd say it is mainly realism in charcoal or graphite, predominately portraits, but also a few still-lifes. This is my "good art", which I spend the most time on. Other than that I  doodle cartoons or dabble in some watercolor. Even with watercolor, I tend more toward realism than anything cartoon or abstract. 

Example of one of my charcoal portraits 

I think my tendency toward realism comes from not having much of an art background. I've only taken two real art classes, one with a home school co-op and one in college, and the rest is what I taught myself from books and the natural talent God gave me. Therefore, I didn't have standards by which to measure if I was "good" or not; however, if I could draw something that looked exactly like what I was drawing from, well then, I figured, I must be pretty good. 


When I first decided to try to illustrate this book, I started with one of my favorite photos I took of Lincoln.   

I chose watercolor as my medium because it is my current obsession, and I needed something to capture the bright colors and patterns I remember from India.  Also, it seems to be fairly forgiving, not super precise, able to cover up where my skill is lacking.  

The first illustration I did was semi-realistic and fairly detailed. I really like the painting, but it wasn't quite what I wanted for the story. 

Before outlining and more Background details

After outlining and accidentally messing up his nose

I wanted something more childish, more energetic and whimsical. And let's be honest, something easier and quicker.

I am not good at drawing hands or feet, and I know almost nothing of body proportions. Sure I've read stuff about it, but I never remember it. 

So, I told myself, cartoons don't have to be realistic. I've seen a lot of oddly proportioned characters out there. A real artist may tell you there is a lot of science, training, and skill that goes behind what looks to be a rudimentary illustrated book, and I'm sure there is, but I figured I can give it a shot without the training. 

And this is what I came up with:

Being able to replicate it is gonna be the tricky part.