Tuesday, June 19, 2018

Generally, I try to be observant of what’s around me that can give me inspiration. That can be anything from random objects or places, to artwork and artists that inspire me.

I then try to start processing what I see into potential new ideas that would work for an ornament. I then do some quick, loose thumbnail drawings on a sketch pad or often on a 3X5 that leads to more refined sketches of the idea.

My initial training was in 2D artwork as an illustrator so I have a number of 2D artists that I admire and will often turn to them for inspiration. I try to identify what it is about their work that captures my interest and appreciation—the kind of gestures they use, the expressions on faces, the action of a pose and interaction of characters. I used to use a cabinet full of files with images of things that I would use as research. Now, I search on the internet for inspiration to begin the process. For instance, when I’m doing one of my Santas in a vehicle, I’ll look for car stylings that convey the attitude that I’m wanting for that particular idea.

Flight or Fancy Concept

I use paper and pencil to give shape to my particular take on an idea. I sketch and re-sketch an idea until it is at a point that I like it. At times, I will do this in the material I’m sculpting in—twisting and turning it to get the gesture right. That can be done in clay, wax or on a 3D computer program. I mainly use the computer now to create my ornaments, so I will often take my sketch and import it on to a plane in the 3D program and then I’ll start to shape my “virtual clay” to match the sketch. I try not to go with what just comes out first. I’ll refine and adjust as I go along.

My style is generally whimsical, rather than cute or elegant. I try to induce a chuckle, rather than an “Awwww” (as in “that’s adorable!”) or “Ohhhhh” (as in “That’s beautiful!”), though I won’t turn down those responses if get them, either.