My process for creating a bird packaging illustration

As a general rule, I like to involve the client as much as possible from beginning to the end.

I start with gesture drawings of the bird, looking for the best poses. I like to read about the bird or study videos so I can find a pose that would best represent its character and personality. I assume that bird owners would connect with this when they see the final packaging.

I take the poses I like and create several black & white compositions showing how it will fit in the layout. If the layout isn’t taken into consideration early, there’s a good chance the impact of art will be lost and the designer will have to put the text on top of the art. In this case, the layout was changed by the end.

Once a compositions is selected, a final drawing is completed. Plus, a simple greyscale and color mockup are sent to the client. After approval, I start the final!

A few times during the rendering stage, I send the client a progress update, letting them know how it’s going, and also letting them request changes if they catch something wrong.

And finally, we have a finished illustration that we can both be proud of!

 

Thanks for reading! 

Benedict

Lion Fights

 

Experimental Paintings

More experimental paintings from a few years ago. Playing around with brushes and different techniques.

Sunshine Lion Sketch

In A Pit With A Lion On A Snowy Day #2

Another painting inspired by the book, “In A Pit With A Lion On A Snowy Day” by Mark Batterson.

In A Pit With A Lion On A Snowy Day

This painting was inspired by one of my favorite books, “In A Pit With A Lion On A Snowy Day” by Mark Batterson. I originally painted this back in 2015 as a personal project, but forgot about it when I got busy with client work. The book is essentially about facing your fears head on. More so, it’s about how our greatest opportunities often present themselves as our greatest fears, such as a 500lb lion in this case.

2nd Packaging Illustration - Eclectus Parrot

Here’s the 2nd bird food packaging illustration. The male Eclectus Parrot is about land on a branch next to a female as she is eating a pandanus fruit. Plus, a smoking volcano and a sunrise in the background. This was quite a challenge!

Strangely enough, I feel like I can relate to this male bird whenever I find my wife snacking on something. “Hey! Whatcha eating!?” I say as I glide gracefully down on to the couch next to her.