Before take-off
My flight to China is coming in fast, with releasing the 2 video tutorials of the Custodies Shield Captain, wrapping up the Angron commission, fitting in last of the tutoring sessions, and getting to slip in a few hours on the brush for some free painting. I'm both excited for my trip, but also going to miss being behind the brush. As the start to this new bust turned what I thought would just be a simple sketch session that I would possibly strip at the end, to a piece I really vibed out on and enjoying the energy that was flowing into it. I painted her in the total of 2 late afternoon sessions as a sort of cleanser after completing other errands, taking the idea or rather the conditions that I felt painting at the demo booths at Adepticon. At those booths, it really pushes you into an unknown situation where you meet a model that you've never seen before, an array of brushes of all sizes, shapes, and conditions, as well as a random array of paints and even brands you haven't used or have little experience with. Turns out it's a ton of fun, and it gave me a new sense of freedom with no expectations. I see this as a pure form of play, like a child given a new toy; they just pick it up and star playing with it, reacting with what comes from each action. For me at my desk, I just grabbed this bust I had prepped on my shelf from around 4-5 miniatures that are prepped n primed just for these kinds of occasions. As for paint I just reached for the first paints my hands land on, with the only idea that I needed a few hues from their respected families. Looking to avoid the common ones I've used recently or gravitate towards in the past. I grabbed an orange/red brown, a magenta tone, a greenish/blue, and a florecent orange to see what I can cook with these ingredients. Once the initial sketch and the colours come together, it was a sign to keep going and through the process I then added a few more pigments to help in minor areas, but without the initial mash of those paints, none of the refinement of the skin to what you see now could have happened.
If there was one aspect that I anchored my session to though, it would be working from reference. The box art was painted by Arnau Lazaro, and a wonderful piece it is. Rather than looking at his colours directly, I was using his reference for light and paying careful attention to his shapes of light to capture volume. This exercise really helped along the way as I quickly started to dive further into the work with refinement, and picturing the rest of the model forming in my mind. Something that contributes to me going to miss the brush over my holiday, but at least I have something to look forward to when I return.
Violet Bunny - Painted by Arnau Lazaro, Sculpted by Lucas Cabello
Well I think that is all for now, just some few odd's n ends to fill out before I take off early Wed Morning. I'll see what I can do about an update on the trip with some photos to share what's been inspiring and capturing my imagination. I have a feeling I'll be getting new fuel for more Cathay characters with new colours, costumes, and even some scenic basing/diorama ideas too!
Thank you again for all of your support here on Patreon x Pro Palette Web. I used to stress earlier on leaving everyone being an independent artist and educator. But as my skills grow, meeting more and more painters, and feeling how much love and support there is from this wonderful community. It's all of you here that I give so much credit and your support brings joy to my life. Happy Painting while I'm away, and I'll see you all back here again in May!
Much love,
Bb