Vector Genius presents a Justin Volz tutorial, Lion and the Buffalo – March 2012
Final Drawing
After revising the sketch I layout I refine and refine. This was done on Illustration board with graphite. I really wanted to show the texture of the fur of the buffalo coming through and I laid out how I wanted the lion’s mane to be because I knew I was going to paint it in the next step.
Painting
Once I had the tight drawing established I moved in with Sumi ink with light washes to establish values and lose some of the line from the tight drawing in places I wanted it to fade. Then proceeded with white gouache to bring out the lights afterwards.
Laying in color flats
After scanning in the painting I overlaid a color flats layer set on “Multiply” so that the values would show through but this time in color.
Refining and Adjusting Colors
At this point its just touch ups. I lighten some of the color layers and make a few value changes to get the established values I had planned. And really play with pushing the lights to the point to where they are almost glowing. I really didn’t want to push the lights as much on the Buffalo because I wanted him to be more of a graphic shape.
Final Touches
The last thing I do once I have all the colors established the way I like is to overlay the drawing which I scanned in before on top of the layer as a, well, overlay layer. I started the painting so that I could bring back some of the quality I really enjoyed in the tight drawing.
Bio:
Justin Volz received his BFA in Illustration for Ringling College of Art + Design in Sarasota, FL. As an Illustrator and Designer, Justin has worked with Rockstar Games doing character designs and pursues editorial and advertising Illustration in NYC.
