Danae

Writing

Warning, the following writings contain a designer’s thoughts on design process, conceptualization, and life in general.

Drawings, Dogs, and Friends

 

One of my best and oldest friends adopted a sassy doggo eight years ago. I witnessed the two of them face many challenges, share many joys, and grow together over time. It is apparent that they share a very strong bond. Their connection is similar to what I shared with my dog. This affection for her dog has inspired me to create a custom illustration and have it printed on a useful item like mug or greeting card. This will make a relatively inexpensive, yet meaningful gift for my good friend. And with her birthday just around the corner, the timing couldn’t be better.

It’s also a great opportunity to practice Adobe’s new CC app, Fresco for the iPad. I have used the vector-based Concepts app by TopHatch, Inc and the pixel-based Procreate app by Savage Interactive Pty Ltd, but Fresco apparently boasts the ability to work in both pixel or vector, and it’s free with a CC subscription!*

Here is how my illustration progressed:

 
STEP 1: Underdrawing I didn’t want to include the chair in this illustration, so I had to reposition the front paws.

STEP 1: Underdrawing
I didn’t want to include the chair in this illustration, so I had to reposition the front paws.

STEP 2: Lights Starting with light tones, I painted with a wet, high “flow” and “water flow” watercolor brush to box out the overall form of the subject.

STEP 2: Lights
Starting with light tones, I painted with a wet, high “flow” and “water flow” watercolor brush to box out the overall form of the subject.

STEP 3: Shadows Pretty self-explanatory.

STEP 3: Shadows
Pretty self-explanatory.

STEP 4: Details Small touches and pushing the lights and darks a little further in contrast helped to develop depth and character. However, I desired a somewhat “unfinished” look, so I didn’t take it too far.

STEP 4: Details
Small touches and pushing the lights and darks a little further in contrast helped to develop depth and character. However, I desired a somewhat “unfinished” look, so I didn’t take it too far.

STEP 5: Final touches I traced with one of the vector tool “Basic Taper.”

STEP 5: Final touches
I traced with one of the vector tool “Basic Taper.”

 

With Adobe Fresco, it takes time to master the water/flow of the watercolor brushes and the pressure sensitivity of the taper brush. The tools themselves are tricky, but moving/adjusting layers is user-friendly. The behavior of the watercolor is beautifully realistic once you get the hang of it and exporting my file is very quick and easy. Even though, the usability of the brushes could be more intuitive, I still say Adobe Fresco can be counted among industry’s best digital illustration applications. I love the end product; I just hope my friend loves it too. Now all I have to do is find a vendor to print!

Have you ever painted something for a friend? What kinds of illustration apps have you used and what for? Have you been able to master the tricks of the Adobe Fresco watercolor brush? Share your expertise; I would love to hear!

 
IllustrationDanae DoubAdobe Fresco, dogs, painting, illustration, friendship