Commission: Wicca-themed Illustration
I was briefed to create an illustration for a Lady who practices Wicca/Witchcraft. The main ideas given to me at the time were images of old books, piled on top of one another, and a sprig of lavender.
I don't know much about Wicca, so I decided to do some research which included finding some image/aesthetic references through Pinterest and Google image searches. I then created a moodboard, which I sent to the client. I was then advised to include black and blue candles for their meanings, some of which are as follows:
Blue - Harmony, inner-light, peace, etc.
Black - Wisdom, protection, safety, etc.
With this, I moved forward with some sketches that I could then send to the client so they could get an idea of what I was thinking for the piece, as well as give their input.
Development
This was the first sketch I created. It was based off of an altar idea, including the requested elements as well as some additional ideas. I then checked in with the client to ask if the individual the gift was for enjoyed tarot/practiced it. I was told yes, and then asked if it might have a place in the illustration. I was also given the go-ahead for this.
This is an element break-down image I sent to the client to give an idea of the elements I was thinking of including.
I then also decided to look at a second, close-up idea which would focus more on the original Books and Lavender-sprig idea. I felt it was best to give the client a couple of options.
The above was the initial close-up sketch. I also sent this to the client and they decided they'd like to go ahead with the above. That then developed into the below image.
And then this, almost (due to the tarot images still requiring finalisation), finished line.
Final Piece
The above illustration was fun to complete, though a little outside of my comfort zone. I haven't completed a full, almost still-life, illustration like this before. In addition, I don't feel I quite have an established style for this kind of work. I'm unsure that I would necessarily use the same Linework + Stylised Digital Painting method again. It was, however, fantastic practice and work I believe the client is ultimately happy with.
