photo by Tara Larsen Chang
There were chickens running around this place.
Nine other illustrators and I spent three days with Todd. He gave some short lectures but mostly he worked with us one-on-one and did some paintovers on our pieces.
He set up a teeter-totter to teach us about balance in compositions.
He also helped us take photo references for our illustrations. I was glad to hear that Todd's photo reference philosophy is not too different from my own - some basic costume elements, some basic lighting, but nothing too elaborate. "I don't want to be married to my reference," he said.
This is the photo reference for my illustration, which I will post (hopefully) later this week. Thanks to Charles for playing along. In order to get the right angle, Todd took this photo from the top of a playground structure thing, with little kids running around him.
One of the best parts was going out to dinner with Todd, hearing him talk about his experiences, and asking questions. He was very friendly and easy-going, freely sharing his wisdom. And he has amazing hair.
The other best part was getting to spend time with other talented illustrators. We all had different backgrounds, but everyone was passionate about illustration - and that's what I've missed most since leaving art school.
Put on your safety goggles, blog readers: I fully plan to start punching you in the eye.
Great write-up Kelley! Thanks. :-)
ReplyDeleteI'm envious!! I've attended a panel on narrative illustration with Lockwood, but would love to be a part of a class like this one.
ReplyDeleteSounds like a wonderful time! I love the "Village Bean"!!!
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