Here is a heavily illustrated, highly detailed instruction manual for art students seeking professional entry in the fantasy art field. The author guides students from conception of an art idea to publication of the finished work, emphasizing methods for creating magical, mythical, and monstrous characters who inhabit worlds of fantasy and wonder. He starts with practical considerations—setting up a workspace and mastering drawing media, painting media, and digital techniques. Next comes advice on visualizing the details in a story concept, with special attention to...
Chapter 1
Introduction
Setting up a workspace
Tools and materials
Paper
Drawing media
Painting media
Watercolors
Gouache and acrylic
Working digitally
Chapter 2
Visualizing
The importance of the sketch
Abstract sketches
The ingredients of traditional fantasy
The use of narrative elements
Ideas and influences
Character studies
Capturing facial features
Body stature
Attitude of characters
Nature in fantasy art
Character interaction
Chapter 3
Drawing
Using geometric shapes
Creating heads and bodies
Anatomy primer
Movement
Imaginary beasts
Developing sophisticated drawings
Costumes
Depth and perspective
Chapter 4
Techniques
Design and layout
Pencil drawing
Drawing ink lines
Starting to paint
Highlights and shadows
Tone and color
Texture and paint effects
Color mixes
Colors for skin tones
Chapter 5
Gallery
Professional development
Resources
Index and credits