19th Century Festive Cards
This was a project designing a Christmas car, intended as merchandising. Inspired by 19th Century and early 20th century greetings cards, this digital illustration followed the techniques used by artists of the past to render an oil painting style picture. The drawing depicts four terriers dressed in 1880’s clothing enjoying a festive meal and drink. A cheerful Jack Russell seemingly making a speech holding centre stage.
Development
I used an oil effect in order to give a ‘hand brushed’ feel to this work, electing smoother, more blended strokes to render materials such as shining glass and dreamy shadows.
Research
I took the time to study various terrier breeds, deciding to use them in the scene due to the relatively small amount of variation in size within the breed. Alongside this, the playful and energetic nature of the dogs lent themselves well to the spirit of the painting.
Inpiration
Such whimsical images were popularised by artists such as Louis Wain, an ardent cat lover as well as a gifted artist.
