Texture experimentation

- water colour
- dry brush
- monoprints.

Approaching the texture to include in my final artwork wasn't too challenging. I have approached mono print a number of times previously now, and i am always really pleased with the way these textures turn out!
I went to the print room and created a number of simple background textures varying in gradient and quality of line. - all in black ink.
Once in photoshop these textures can be manipulated - i can colourise them, and cut them up and layer as i would like to.

I have also created a number of watercolour textures that may also be an effective addition of texture for my final prints. Sometimes i like to layer the water colour on top of monoprints for extra detail - changing the opacity to do so.

Final Compositional Development

Final Compositions

From all my roughs these are the three compositions that i am going to push forward. 
Approaching the visual aspect of the final pieces, i know that i want to continue to push a similar aesthetic to my lino and mono prints from 504. This is something that I have pushed quite heavily through the rest of the year, but i am continuing to refine and develop this visually through digital means, and not limiting to the hand made process.
I would have liked to create the detail in lino but i have realised with the time available it would be impossible to create a substantial resolution to the brief. I need to be efficient with my time and remember that the project is a lot more about proposing an idea than actually making it. I don't want to sacrifice my ideas and concepts due to the lino process, so i have decided to create the detail through block ink which will be scanned in and edited with the mono printed textures - and potentially watercolour textures that i have created. I will experiment with this in processing my final designs.


I had used greek art as inspiration for my sketchbook and the style in which i drew some of the characters, and i think that the ancient artwork has an aesthetic that is very similar to the lino cut style created in my previous work. - I am going to continue this aesthetic for these final pieces - using bold block lines to depict the detail which i think is a good visual interpretation to represent the the greek mythology theme.

Although i am quite pleased with how the ink has come out, i have realised that its very difficult to create the exact same effect as lino cut. Its a lot more organic and i find that a lot of interesting details and mark making can occur through cutting lino that can't be drawn. which is something to bar in mind for the future.

Refining my compositions for final:

Sirens:

Scylla:

Charybdis:

Sketchbook work - two

- Compositional development - Deciding on my final direction.

Having narrowed down the focus of my project, and written a rough, but structured project proposal, i feel more in control and certain of where my project is heading. Although i had many interests and possible ideas to explore within greek mythology, I feel more settled and focused now i have just chosen a specific series of events to depict! I have chosen the story of The odyssey and am enjoying visually exploring/depicting the characters and events within.
When creating my own interpretations of the characters and events, i want them to be unique and personal, however, it is also important that they are well informed. I have done a lot of research into each stage of the odyssey and the events that unfold. When focusing on sketching each character or scene and am continuously being informed by and referring back to the quotes and descriptions i have gathered in the 'further research - the odyssey' blog post.

examples ?!

I have found that i am mostly drawn to the monsters of the odyssey, and less to do with drawing the people. I just feel that my images are more successful, and compositions are more creative when focused around the mythical creatures. I think its the creative freedom these characters allow - they don't have to look a certain way, I can use the text to inform my interpretations of the beasts, but its altogether quite open. I am enjoying this opportunity to  develop my own characters. Events / monsters that i am interested in depicting include:
- The cyclops
- The scylla
- Sirens
- Charybdis
- Minator
- 

 Unfortunately i haven't really explored much media experimentation within my visual journal, but i am heavily inspired by all the artists research i have collected and as i have previously said i know that i am interested in pushing the visual aesthetic of lino and mono print explored previously throughout the year. - wether that be through lino or digital.
At this stage i thought it be wise to just go straight into creating my compositions however instead of spending time on media exploration! Once i have some compositions i would like to push, it will then be about refining my practical process and making decisions about the visual aesthetic of my work. For the moment i am really focused on pushing my characters / monsters and depicting the scenes i have chosen from the odyssey.

UPDATE:
Within the odyssey however i am still unsure on exactly what i am creating. what i had decided to focus on in my proposal is still quite vague.
- i suggested depicting events from each section to form a book but there is no time.
- i need to limit down my ideas and create a solid proposal that i can follow from now on!!!

PROPOSAl - rough:

- I am going to to create a series of 3 prints, with each one depicting an important and catastrophic event from the historical greek tale of The Odyssey.

The prints will additionally be adapted to becoming a zine/book cover and poster design.
Aimed at a wide audience from young children to adults, I will also propose a range of merchandise and products, - a collection of which will have something to appeal to all ages.

(- decided i want to explore 3D - even just proposing, - so will reduce amount of imagery i create.
- i will Choose three characters - monsters - they will be the focus - successful and drawn to them and know this now from reviewing my sketches.)

Compositional exploration:

- These are rough roughs! but the drawings make sense to me - just coming up with a basic composition - focusing on shape and balance. - don't want to over complicate with detail at this point!
- things to consider,
- need to visually link
- need to work as a series
- same angle? / viewpoint?
- same - proportion to the frame - 'zoomed in'

I have reviewed my roughs, and the three characters that i feel have the most potential to be pushed forward are:
'The Sirens'
'The Scylla'
'The Charybdis'
- These have been the characters and events that i have enjoyed drawing and developing most recently. When viewing my roughs, I also feel that these three would visually, work the most successfully as a set. in my roughs i have featured the Boat in each of these scenes and i think that this is a nice linking feature between each image - the series depicting the continuous journey through each image.

summery of all images - development and compositional roughs:

Further research. - The Odyssey

- After researching further into 'The Odyssey' i feel that this could also be a really interesting area of within greek history to focus my project around. 

- A problem with my initial ideas of creating illustrations depicting a variety of gods or monsters, or even telling well known stories perhaps is that the scope is still so broad. - perhaps I need to focus down the subject even more.

- If choosing the odyssey I could create a series of book or prints depicting Odyssey's 10 year journey back to his beloved family. Along the way he encounters so many 'gods and monsters' - exciting and interesting events unfold. 

- Perhaps then my response would be more cohesive and less 'random'? - even in the world of greek myths /legends there are so many subjects that the choice is endless! i feel that i need to narrow down some sort of theme further within this.

Aims/ideas

- Consider books 3-5. arguably the most entertaining and eventful section within The Odyssey. Draw and create in response to researched characters and scenes.

- I like the idea of forming a cohesive set of prints - published within a book telling the story of the odyssey's journey. 

- Perhaps also considering how i could piece all these scenes together for an alternative display? - could all the sections make up the body or face of the odyssey himself?! - to create a huge wall print or wallpaper design? 
- Could the ideas be to overdone? - need to look at existing interpretations of the story.
- for an easier understanding //summery of the story reference: http://www.greeka.com/ionian/ithaca/ithaca-myths/odysseus.htm
other references;
http://www.sparknotes.com/lit/odyssey/section1.rhtml
http://www.cliffsnotes.com/literature/o/the-odyssey/poem-summary
http://blog.oup.com/2014/07/scenes-from-the-odyssey-in-ancient-art/
http://www.ancient-literature.com/greece_aristophanes_birds.html
https://www.goodreads.com/work/quotes/3356006

Greek Inspired Products

'Lacrimosa design' - their new creative pursuit is - KYANOS - designing and decorating products, accessories and useful items for the whole family inspired by Greek Mythology. Products are printed on fabric with high resistance indelible colours  All products are made in Greece, with emphasis on particularity and quality.

The inspiration for KYANOS series originates from their love for Greece, it’s history and ancient greek culture. The designs and patterns are inspired from designs from geometric or archaic period of the Macedonian kingdom and other eras, customized in earthy or intense shadings. Representations of mythological and historical figures are combined with line drawings, creating an integrated range of products.

The name cyanos is derived from the ancient greek word κυανός (pronounced=kianos), meaning “dark blue”, formerly known as “cyan blue”. The greek poet Homer (author of Iliad and Odyssey, who lived during the 8th century B.C.) was the first to use the word “cyanos”. Ιn ancient times, “cyanos” was used to describe the blue reflections created when the sun light illuminated on dark-pencil grey metal alloy. We also find it in word ku-wa-no, in a Linear-B sign in Pylos, Greece. It is the bluish-grayish color, also found in nature, in birds feathers of flowers."

KYANOS collection is ideal for:
– Museum shops
– Multi-purpose venues for art and culture
– Hotel shops
- Shops for tourists
– Travel agencies
– Clubs and cultural institutions
– Business gifts

Greek Art/Products

Since looking at the alchemy, i have been inspired to consider developing my project into product designs. I decided to look specifically at existing ancient greek artwork and objects. I found they created such beautiful and intricate pieces of jewellery, bowls, vases, with many being inspired by their gods, or legends.
A collection of some truly stunning examples;

- Iv'e found these to be really inspiring. I am beginning to see how my illustrations could be adapted in a variety of ways. - wether that with it being printed onto a surface. - bowl/vase or material. Or actually carving out a 3D design?
- Next - need to luck at methods of production (other than information from my uncle) - methods that i can attempt by hand? - polymer clay for example.

- Comparing this collection to some stunning contemporary jewellery examples. These pieces are all inspired by the ancient greeks, yet with a modern twist. Through research i have found theres still such a market that this jewellery and products will appeal to. 
- is this just a 'fashion trend' at the moment? will it last? - if I adapted my illustrations to such products how long would they be desirable/ an audience. These are questions I need to look further into. But it seems that Greek inspired patterns, prints, furniture, and jewellery has been relevant for quite some time.

Research - The Alchemy

Considering how my illustrations could be applied to other forms;

- I have been really interested in products and packaging and seeing how illustrations can be adapted to fit a wide range of products.

- I am lucky enough to have an uncle that works for The Alchamy engalnd. - creating 3d - jewellery products in metal/ that evolve around a gothic theme.

- Some really interesting and inspiring adaptations, that uniquely incorporate illustrative themes into their designs.

- I am already beginnng to see how some of my designs could perhaps be adapted to become a product/piece of jewellery. and the potential for a market. - need to look further into my audience and where my products will sit. - especially if adapted across a wide range of mediums.

- I hope to get the chance to speak to my uncle about the entire designing and making process and get a better insight into how these products are produced. - i may be able to create my own versions? 

Greek Myths - Lesley Barnes

- Exploring existing artwork. These illustrations by Lesley barns captured my attention! They're really playful and striking interpretations of greek mythology. The artwork has a modern feel, but I like the way her drawings are created with a homage to the ancient greek style. They're bright and bold, and i also love the subtle use of texture to bring depth to the images.

Similar existing products - greek mythology

Beetroot design Group
"Misunderstood monsters of greek mythology."

"Frightening, shocking, strange and unpredictable, the monsters of Greek Mythology are the antiheroes that have inspired authors such as Hesiod, Homer, Plato, Aristophanes, Shakespeare, Wilde and Gide, artists like, Rubens, Goya, Ingres and Picasso and have fascinated countless generations of readers and listeners all around the world. Here, for the first time, the monsters of Greek Mythology get to tell their story! The original myths are coupled by the monsters’ own version of their story, all in sharp and witty original verse by Anastasia Tentokali and appropriately translated for the english version by Fanis Skourtis.The design of the book makes use of a quite old but extremely ergonomic technique in which the content is arranged within a page so that it leaves enough space downwards and on the sides so that the reader’s hand can comfortably grasp it without obscuring the text.
The typography including fonts and text distribution, reminds of classic children’s books of old times that is made afresh by the use of modern technology that allows crystal-clear precision in the rendering of the shapes and the printing of the colors. The printing was made in high-quality Old Mill 130 and 250 gram paper.
Every “misunderstood monster” featured in the book is illustrated accordingly to its “psychology” as this is explained in its “personal account of its story”. The brand new book by Mangel-Wurzel book is lavishly designed and illustrated in smart neo-black-figure style colors in reminiscence of the black-figured illustrations of the Classic Greek Era, interpreted in a new –edgy style."

I absolutely love everything about this book! its such a simple but really clever concept, and provides such a new spin on the ancient greek tales. I think the fresh new out look of 'monsters' created with the use of bold vivid imagery is sure to capture the attention of a young audience. 

At this point i have focused down on greek mythology, and looking at narrative, but i am also really beginning to explore the relation ship and crossover between product and narrative, and its something that seems very relevant within the theme of greek mythology.
This book is a perfect example of the relationship between the two. An exhibition was held which showcased the work of Mangel-Wurzel along with which - giant 3D models / and toys were created to accompany the book, along with a giant interactive wall where children were able to go and interact wit the characters and creatively get involved in creating their own monsters. Promoting a product in this way can really help to expand your audience and engage them. 
I think the possibilities are endless when it comes to narrative - there is nothing stopping me developing characters or stories into the 3D world to further engage and interact with an audience. I am going to continue to look at how product and narrative can merge.

Selection of greek myths.

http://www.greekmyths-greekmythology.com/c/greek-myths/
http://www.greeka.com/greece-myths/

My 'Top 10' Greek Heroes

http://ancienthistory.about.com/od/heroes/tp/TopHeroes.htm

Legendary Greek Creatures

Possible focus of artwork:

http://list25.com/25-most-legendary-creatures-from-greek-mythology/2/
http://classicalwisdom.com/top-ten-terrifying-monsters-greek-mythology/

other research references:
- Greek Constellations and their meanings
http://www.constellation-guide.com/constellation-names/

Dragons

Dragons of Ancient greek Mythology.

There were four types of dragon in ancient Greek mythology : the serpent Dracones, the marine Cetea, the fire-breathing Chimaera and the she-monster Dracaenae.The first of these occur in both myth and legend--"legend" meaning the ancients believed such creatures inhabited the far corners of the earth in historical times.

1) Dracones Legendary

The ancients believed the remote, unexplored corners of the earth were inhabited by Dracones. These legendary creatures were similar to their mythical counterparts.

2) Cetea Mythical 

The second type of dragon was the Cetus or "Sea-Monster." The creature usually featured in myths of a sacrificial princess rescued by a hero.

3) Cetea Legendary

The ancients imagined that Cetea or sea-monsters populated the distant oceans of the world. "Cetus" was also the Greek word for "whale," which was regarded as a type of sea-monster.

4) Chimaera

The third type of dragon was the Chimera, a fire-breathing monster whose form was a hybrid of lion, serpent and goat. Medieval artists used this creature as the template for the Dragon of Saint George.

5) Dracaenae

The fourth type of dragon was the Dracaena or "She-Dragon," a creature with the upper body of a beautiful nymph and the body of a dracon or sea-monster in place of legs. Two of these creatures, Echidna and Ceto, spawned most of the dragons of myth.

Example of Dragons in Greek Mythology

Ive discovered so much about dragons from looking into greek mythology alone! yet I know they are present in so many other cultures, - in many variations. There are so many descriptions and background stories to these creatures that i find them a really appealing and interesting subject; i am already feeling inspired to create some visual interpretations of my own.
- Is the subject of dragons to clique? Did i not want to explore more little known mythical themes? - something a bit grittier? do dragons have the same impressive impact or are they over done? - focus on ancient tales, and stories that are not really heard of.. base around a narrative? but just the visuals?
- http://www.theoi.com/greek-mythology/dragons.html
Refer to this site for more detail.
- Provides full and extensive list of dragons from ancient greek mythology.

- The webiste also provides a section of quotes evolving around dragons, in classic literature. Perhaps this would be a good starting point? If i decide i am interesting in illustration a narrative, or creating/developing my own these quotes will be a good source of reference, and inspiration.
- Greek mythology is something that keeps appearing in all my research. It has so much scoop to explore! I am interested in possibly choosing this to evolve my work around.

Concept art - Character / narrative inspo.

Concept art is something that i have always found fascinating. I am always drawn to the amount of creativity and detail with the concept art i have seen, it amazes me how such fully realised new worlds can be created and formed from someones imagination. 'Concept art is a form of illustration used to convey an idea for use in films, video games, animation, comic books or other media before it is put into the final product. Concept art is also referred to as visual development and/or concept design.'
After visiting the library i have gathered some examples of well known concept art - that i hope will inspire me for my development of character and narrative.

Star Wars
The power of illustration is evident in the creation of the star wars film franchise. In 1975, George Lucas commissioned McQuarrie - an american conceptual designer and illustrator, to illustrate scene from the script for Star Wars. 

These wonderfully detailed and imaginative artwork of his really brought to life George lucas's ideas and concepts, with many of his illustrations being very close visually, to some of the final scenes features within the film. 

The Lord Of The Rings
- Concept art by Alan Lee

How To Train Your Dragon - Dreamworks
- You can really see the development and progression of the character. How the illustrator has wrestled with a visual concept.

Character development - 'Toothless"

Character / Narrative research - Brothers Grim Fairy Tales

If i am to re create scenes illustrating old myths of legends it is important to consider what has already been done. A worry would be that a subject i choose may have been created numerous times. But does this matter?? - In cases of The brothers grimm fairytales, - they have been re imagined and re created such a large number of times! The artwork that is successful in doing so - put a new interesting spin on the origin concept that is sure to still capture the attention of an audience.

This is something that i need to consider. - What new quality am i bringing within my illustrations? - compared to what is already out there. - for example if i chose to explore scandinavian folklore.

In 2014 The complete first edition of 'The original folk and fairy tales of the Brothers Grimm' is created by Zippes. The book 'featuring breathtaking illustrations by Romanian-born artist Andrea Dezso. Her delicate ink-drawing vignettes — intended to invoke the magical cut-paper sculptures for which Dezsö is known — illuminate scenes from the Grimms’ tales through an extraordinary interplay of darkness and light, both of colour and of concept.'

- I love the new fresh spin these illustrations have on the old stories, it really brings them to life in a new way and re captures the readers imagination.

- I also am really drawn to the visual quality of her work, - the striking contrast of black on white is really effective - i like that beautiful fine details are included within the paper cuts, but the compositions are not over complicated by colour or texture. The simplicity of minimal materials works perfectly.

*Possible visual direction for my work??