Since I started my new Minecraft series Forest Dweller, inspired by the ancient Celtic ways, I’ve wanted to make an illustration based off the series!
Well, let’s just say, my first two attempts didn’t go as planned. I originally made this piece:
I don’t *hate* this piece, but I ultimately felt that it didn’t represent my series well, mostly due to the color palette. It’s too fantastical, cool-toned, too blue and purple– Oh wait, that’s the color palette I use in like, 90% of my artwork. So breaking out of it was kind of challenging. I overall had a difficult time figuring out a pleasing color palette so I just went with one that I was more familiar with, but it just didn’t work for the “Forest Dweller” theme. So, onto my next attempt.
This one… I really don’t like. I think the composition is pretty cool. I like the background, the colors are still really off, but I’ll just disregard that. But the thing I hated the most was how I painted the leaves on my subject. It just came out really visually unappealing. I just really didn’t like how this came out. It’s simply… okay. That’s about it. Still not “Forest Dweller,” though.
Onto my third attempt.
This is just a sneak peek, because it’s still a work in progress! I am not currently done with this piece, but already, I am much more happy with it compared to my last two attempts. The color palette is more true to the series, and I think my character design is a lot better and more representative of the actual let’s play in general. I also chose to do a half-body vertical composition, which gave me room to include a weapon! My character is holding a spear and wearing a penannular brooch in this piece, which are two things that symbolize the Celts.
I can’t wait to finish this artwork. I have a very good feeling about it. And then, I’ll finally have an illustration to represent my Forest Dweller series!
If you’re interested in hearing more of my thoughts about my two failed attempts, check out my video where I show the speedpaint of the pieces and go in depth about my thoughts on the art and new series:
And of course, be sure to watch my new Minecraft Forest Dweller series, where I live in the forest, guided by the ancient Celtic ways:
