I've been going through a lot of my old work for an exhibition that's coming up in November.
Mostly it's good to see pictures I haven't looked at for years, but sometimes I look at work and I wonder what on Earth I was thinking.
Generally my criticism is that I have laboured too much over a picture to try to make it work better.
Here's one where I think I got the technique just right.
She is one of the Hags from "East of the Sun, and West of the Moon".
The painting is only about 6 x 8 inches in size, but there's a lot in there.
I've got to get back to doing some more drawing like that.
Ah, my favourite. I have two copies: one the kids can get to when they want to read it, and one they can't!
ReplyDeleteI'm surprised at how small the original is. Looking at the book, the detail is so wonderful that I imagined the originals to be much larger.
Do you work close to the actual size of the illustration in the finished book?
Where is the exhibition you are preparing for in November?
ReplyDeleteI was hoping to come over for the talk in December at the National Library but unfortunately it's looking doubtful at the moment. I would be grateful for any details on the exhibition though.
PS. how on earth do you decide on an 'old hag's' shoes? I can't recall seeing the footwear of any before and just wondered how you come up with the ideas.
Kind regards,
Sally
Great book and cool post. It made me go back and look through the book again, which is always good.
ReplyDeleteI noticed on the printed pages the there was a design that goes behind the Hag and wrapped around the text.
Did you design the graphic that or did that happen somewhere else in the process.
Thanks for sharing,
Mike
I'm reading a novel based on East of the Sun... at the moment. It's great stuff. Such powerful imagery.
ReplyDeleteI'll report in full when I finish the book. I'm not getting much reading time now though as I have a really tight deadline pending.
The originals were quite big compared to the printed book. These days I work closer to book size as I think there is no point putting in loads of detail that can't be seen in print.
The National gallery thing will be more of a conversation than a talk...hopefully a nice social occasion.
There will actually be a couple of exhibitions this year. One at W5 in Belfast in December and another on-line event followed by a reception for folks picking up their pictures.
I'm very well aware of the financial situation in the world, so I'll be exhibiting lots of smaller affordable pieces, and a few from Jessie and Toomey for people who judge art to be a safer investment than some other things.
That exhibition will go on-line in mid-November.
Re the graphic device in "East of the Sun..." Mike, Yes I drew it and painted it but a designer at Walker Books brought all the elements together. Graphic design has never been a great strength for me. I believe you should get experts to help with things like that if possible, and Walker Books emply the most excellent designers I know.
Thanks for the comments
All the best
PJ
I've always loved that book. The characters in it are great. One of my favorites for sure.
ReplyDelete...I would very much like to see this book,I´ll search for it:she look just perfect with her perfid expresion(I like the way you brough some colorful details,the sox,f.ex).
ReplyDeleteI must say I was very touched to read the simple and modest lines you used to describe yourself and your work!I think you are an incredible artist and a huge inspiration for many of those who try their forces on illustration!
You have my deeply respect and admiration!Apologize for my poor english
Thanks so much for the kind comments.
ReplyDeletePJ