Imagery from my latest Empathetic Robots private commission, enveloping the theme of St. George and the Dragon into my aesthetics of world building with the Robots. At first I was very hesitant to accept this commission, as it seemed a far bit too odd. But as I began to embrace the challenge, numerous visual solutions presented themselves, allowing a run with atypical scenes and fueling a growing excitement for this piece!
I am very happy with the final results, and have a few process shots here for sharing.
In the end, I preferred the second sketch where each of the narrative players are given equal billing, calling into question who is the predator, lure, and conqueror.
Preliminary Drawing, 24″ x 18″ Graphite and Chalk on Toned Paper
Initial Acrylic Lay-in, final board size, 30″ x 23″.
Beginning phases of oil paint application.
Final color work. I LOVE that shadows can be filled with so much color!
The Violinist (my daughter Naomi!)
The Robot
The Dragon
The Dragon, Violinist, and Empathetic Robot, 30″ x 23″ Oil on Panel
And if I have to submit this to a contemporary illustration contest, this may be what I send in. Moonlight Serenade! It’s a good idea to make the image super simplified and graphic to read at 500 pixels tall amongst thousands of other images…
Just fantastic work! Love the colors, the process, and the visual elements. The patterns of light and dark and so well designed. Always inspiring, Donato!
Absolutely enthralling! I feel as mesmerized as the robot and the dragon seem to. Always cool to see process shots as well. Thank you for sharing this.