Sketchbook Review: Veneq's epic journey of self discovery

Artist: Veneq
Sketchbook Name: Veneq's epic journey of self discovery
Link: http://cghub.com/forum/showthread.php?t=10103&page=5

Artwork

Holy crap. I go searching for sketchbooks to feature and this one comes along. From start to finish this is a fantastic portfolio. There is enough different styles to keep even me entertained. Not only that but each style is expertly and confidently handled. Nearly every piece is rendered to near perfection and the backgrounds to some of the images, just wow.

Growth

Whilst the start of this sketchbook is good, it does feel a bit flat in places. Fortunately this is corrected very quickly. It does seem like Veneq is constantly pushing himself but he has reached a level where there is not much more he can grow. Perhaps experimenting in new styles like cell shaded but that is really nit picking.

Presentation

This is where I struggled to find something. There were that many pieces I could have shown that the only real way to do this sketchbook justice is to recommend you check it out yourself. The concept pieces especially are presented fantastically making full use of the sketchbook layout. That little bit of extra effort has really paid off as it shows off his skill perfectly.

Interaction

As well as being an expert artist Veneq is very polite and will always respond to each post. He comes off as a really nice guy and that is another one of this sketchbooks strengths. I cannot emphasise how much of a difference this makes to me when writing these reviews up. He come across as a man I would love to work with.

Other Points

Nothing more really to point out here. Perhaps just continue as you are as I would love to see more work from you.

Score 10/10

You know what I am feeling in a generous mood and I can only find one fault with this sketchbook, so Veneq, you are getting my first perfect score.

+ Great presentation
+ Some growth from the start
+ fantastic work in general

- I want more

Sketchbook Review: The Aether Technician's Sketchbook

Sketchbook Name: The Aether Technician's Sketchbook
Artist: Aether Technician
Link: http://www.conceptart.org/showthread.php?t=250599&page=6#.UV2-THBwZwZ

Art Work

I really like this sketchbook. From post to post, you have no idea what will come next. I have seen 3D models, quick sketches, concepts, and even some sculpture work. One thing I will warn you about is the start is extremely rough. This is more from in experience than anything else.

Growth

In just a few months Aether has transformed so much. In the beginning his work, in all honesty, was not that good, but through hard work and determination Aether seems to be developing an interesting style. This is extremely early days at the moment but there is a lot of potential in his work.

There are a few areas that need addressing first. There are times when his colours appear a bit muddy, but this is a relatively new sketchbook and with the rate he is growing these issues should be sorted out in no time.

Presentation

I am going to give massive points for this. Not only is his concept art presented in a very neat manner but he has also done something really rare in sketchbooks, animated images. These simple animations really bring the image to life and I would love to see more artists do this. The forever waiting image on page 5 gave me a chuckle.

Interaction

Here is where the sketchbook falls slightly. I would love to see better audience interaction. I am not sure if he comments on other peoples sketchbooks but I am not a huge fan of 1 word responses. At very least mention their name. That said at least he acknowledges the comment rather than just post his next work.

Other Points

This is a fairly short sketchbook at the moment, with only 6 pages so far. But it is one of the most exciting ones I have seen. Unfortunately it is too small to gain the really high marks, that said I will probably re-review this at a later date.

I sincerely hope Aether does not lose his experimental curiosity as this will make his work stand out from other sketchbooks. Keep trying new things, don't be afraid to fail.

Score 6/10

+ Every post feels fresh and exciting
+ Interesting pieces
+ Great presentation style
+ Animated images

- Very short at the moment
- Little interaction
- Muddy colours in some areas

Sketchbook Review: NorthernChild Sketchbook

I am going to try something a little different with this review. A new format. If it works out well then all future sketchbook review will be done in this format.

So what is new?

Well we will be reviewing the sketchbook. Not just looking at the art but also interaction with commenter, presentation of the images, and is the artist pushing them self.
Another new feature will be the rating system, complete with summery, so without further delay lets look at today's sketchbook

Sketchbook Name: NorthernChild Sketchbook
Artist: NorthernChild
Link: http://cghub.com/forum/showthread.php?t=1338

Art Work

NorthernChild's sketchbook looks great. The work is at a consistent quality level. There is also a good variety of work. One minute Child could be working on a fully rendered finished piece, the next could be a sketch or 3D work. This prevents the sketchbook from getting too stale.

Growth

Not too much can be said here. NorthernChild has been pretty consistent. One thing I have noticed is that NorthernChild has got more daring with lighting techniques compared with the start of the sketchbook. I would like to see more interesting perspectives in future updates.

Presentation

The presentation of some of her image sets looks really nice. This is really oblivious with the 3D projects. Rather than just post one image after another in a vertical column, some time is given to just make sure the layout is not only readable but aesthetically pleasing.

Another thing is some of the 2D works have nice frames around them. This not only looks nice but makes the images stand out that bit more.

Interaction

NorthernChild always makes an effort to interact with anyone who comments on her sketchbook. If she has no images to show off she will write something anyway. I really enjoy this about any sketchbook. It shows that an artist is not too busy for their fans.

Other Points

Whilst this is what I would consider a high end sketchbook I do kind of miss quick studies. I appreciate that this may not be the direction that NorthernChild wants to go down but I personally always enjoy a few rough pieces or even something a bit silly on occasions.

That said this is a very good sketchbook, and one I am looking forward to see grow.

Score: 8/10

+ Good variety of work
+ Very skilled execution
+ Lots to view (over 23 pages)

- Could do with some interesting perspective pieces
- Would love to see more studies and environments

Artist Feature: Dylan Teague

Holy crap this guy is good. Dylan's sketch blog makes you want to pick up a pencil and draw. This blog is filled with some fantastic sketches and some awe inspiring comic pages. The great thing about this blog are the development of some of the final pieces. You get to see Dylan's work process, something that I personally love.

Visit his blog at: http://dylansdrawingboard.blogspot.co.uk/

I have not seen a sketchbook use colours quite like Dylan's The varying shades of red and blue are a great contrast and I would love to see more artists post work like this up. The image above seems a bit chaotic and eclectic but for some reason I can't stop starting at it, and this is just one example of his sketches.

I always try to feature the female form in this blog (feel free to call me a pervert) and these studies are a fantastic example of how to lay out your sketchbook. Rough doodles in light blue fill up otherwise unused space whilst not detracting attention from the main figures. Line quality is superb and eye catching. No line is out of place or wasted.

I know a few artists struggle with colour (myself included). This is a fine example of how to apply colour. By using minimal tonal variations Dylan has brought this character to life. The minimal background and foreground look fantastic and really bring the piece together.

I love featuring comic work. I feel it takes a great amount of knowledge and effort to even attempt comic art yet alone master it. This is where Dylan really shines. His professional level and expertise is outstanding. This part of his portfolio is worth a visit on its own.

I could easily ramble about Dylan's work all day but I would recommend you view it for yourself. http://dylansdrawingboard.blogspot.co.uk/

Sketchbook Feature: Inward outward! i want to draw

Sketchbook Name: Inward outward! I want to draw
Artsit: GrayPersona
Link: http://www.conceptart.org/showthread.php?t=264250&page=4

Whilst this is a small sketchbook at the moment, it is no less deserving of a look. The improvement GrayPersona has made is impressive.

There are alot of nice studies. From Bridgeman to Loomis this artist is off to a great start. Gray also has a good grasp of values which I know from personal experience is a tricky subject.

If there is one small complaint I have about the sketchbook it is with the lack of imaginative pieces. GrayPersona has the skill to produce impressive finished pieces but I feel Gray lacks the confidence. I cant wait to see some coloured personal pieces. I am sure they will look amazing.

My personal favourite piece is the jug study. The values are fantastic and the metal is rendered very well. I cant wait to see this artist grow.

Artist Inspiration: Up And Coming Artists

Today we look at several artists who have great potential. It is no secret that I love studies and these artists have either most of their sketchbook dedicated to studies or have unique studies. These artists show alot of promise and it willbe great to see them grow.

Sketchbooks

	Artist: FE-W Link: http://fe-w.deviantart.com/gallery/ It is not often I include a DA account in the sketchbook section but with FE-W I am willing to make an exception. The thing I like about FE-W is the volume of studies. In his gallery you will prodominantly see figure studies along with the source material. It will be great to see more environment studies and I would love the design lab to become a regular feature.
	Artist: PhilipO Sketchbook Name: Philip's Sketches Link: http://conceptart.org/forums/showthread.php?248695-Philip-s-Sketches/page4 There are a lot of very nice images here. From studies and concepts to finished pieces this sketchbook shows alot of potential. The main area that I would like to see improved upon would be the values. At times some of the characters seem abit flat so just spending a few days studying values will give the figures more of a presence. I cannot wait to see this sketchbook grow into something special.
	Artist: Xanath Sketchbook Name: Xanath's Sketchbook Link: http://cghub.com/forum/showthread.php?t=3240&page=7 The pencil work in this sketchbook is truely impressive. Values are subtle yet distinct and handled with a level of professionalism. I would like to see some value studies done digitally if this is the area Xanath wishes to pursue just so he can build confidence with transfering his skills with the pencil to his chosen software. Over all I can see big things for this sketchbook in the near future especailly if focus is placed on pencil work.

Featured Book Color and Light by James Gurney

This is a book that deserves to be in any artists libarary. Even if you have extensive knowlage in colour and light this book may still teach you a thing or two.

"James Gurney's new book, Colour and Light, cleverly bridges the gap between artistic observation and scientific explanation. Not only does he eloquently describe all the effects of colour and light an artist might encounter, but he thrills us with his striking paintings in the process." --Armand Cabrera, Artist

UK Shop	US Shop

Featured Video 

 This is one of my favourite speed paining videos. I found it a few years ago and it was one of the first speed paintings I watched.

Artist's Inspiration

Greetings all. We have a new series for you. Artist's Inspiration is written to highlight several art based articles at once. Each article we feature at least 3 sketchbooks from different sites that are in some way note worthy. We also search out interesting articles from news sites to help inspire you. There is even a section highlighting interesting art books.

Without further delay here is your first dose of Artist's Inspiration.

Sketchbooks

Sketchbook: If I had eight hours to chop down a tree, I'd spend six hours sharpening my axe
Artist:  Spudonkey
Site: Imagine FX
Link: http://community.imaginefx.com/forums/13/378706/ShowThread.aspx

Spudonkey has a really quirky style which looks fantastic. Line art is crisp and clean. The sketchbook has a great combination of studies and imaginative pieces.

Sketchbook: Vices Sketchbook
Artist: Vice
Site: Conceptart.org
Link: http://conceptart.org/forums/showthread.php?200074-Vices-Sketchbook/page8

Worth a visit just for the shear amount of studies. You can tell Vice is a hard worker. It would be nice to see more of an emphasis on shading studies as I feel he is pretty confident with anatomy. Also brush confidence could use some work in places but these are little things. Cannot wait to visit this sketchbook again in a few weeks time.








Star Sketchbook.

Sketchbook: Garret AJ's Sketchbook nonsense
Artist: Garret AJ
Site: CGHub
Link: http://cghub.com/forum/showthread.php?t=13771

Fantastic colours, great variety of works, and amazingly realised finished pieces. Really impressive works from start to finish. Garret is extremely talented, especially when it comes to colour, producing to very eye catching pieces.










Featured Book

Art of Pixar: 25th Anniv hc: The Complete Color Scripts and Select Art from 25 Years of Animation

If you have even just a passing interest in Pixar this book will be of interest to you. Georgous illustrations from the masters of animation.

Pick yours up today from Buy The Art Of Pixar (UK Shop)

Or  Buy The Art Of Pixar (US Shop)






Youtube Video



ARTicle
Our featured article comes from The Guardian http://www.guardian.co.uk/artanddesign/gallery/2013/jan/28/light-show-hayward-gallery-in-pictures#/?picture=403145355&index=5

For those of you wanting to paint a scifi scene you may want to check out Shine on: Light Show at the Hayward Gallery. The concepts are extremely inspiring and can easily be translated into futuristic scenes.

Deviant Art Feature: SourAcid

I discovered SourAcid through a live chat that I join  every Wednesday. After a quick look at his gallery I felt I should feature his work on this blog. Here is the link to the full profile http://souracid.deviantart.com/

Mainly focusing on portraits SourAcid has a very professional style. Rendering is handled with real care and attention. The lighting looks fantastic in every one of his pieces.

SourAcid's personality comes out in each of his pieces. One piece can have a serious tone but he is never afraid to try something a bit more fun. Octopolis (shown above) has a great over the top feel to it. Part of a colab this bizzar image is both eye catching and well executed. The pink hair really draws your eye to the subject and the tentacles ensure your eye won't be leaving in a hurry.

The thing that I really love about SourAcid's gallery is the bright vibrant colours, well that and the ladies XD. The images are strong enough to stand on their own but when you look at the whole gallery you get a real sense of SourAcid's skill. There is not a single bad image to bring the gallery down.

There are a few pieces of fan art. Normally I would not knowingly feature fan art images but in this case I will make an exception. L from death note looks recognisable yet SourAcid has left his own mark on this subject capturing his odd personality perfectly.

 
For some critique I would like to see more characters in environments. Taka (shown above) is a wonderfully realised piece and I would love to see more like it.

My personal favourite piece is the mummy (shown above). This unique take on  a classic monster is wonderfully depicted. The texture on the bandages is a great contrast to the leather coat and the background makes this image pop out.

Keep an eye out for more works from SourAcid.

Sketchbook review: Sketchbook Journey

Sketchbook: Sketchbook Journey
Artist: Mack
Link: http://cghub.com/forum/showthread.php?t=5242

It never ceases to amaze me  the abundance of talent across the Internet. Mack has not only one of the most varied and largest sketchbook I have seen but it is also one of the best. There are a multitude of styles and subjects here so you are bound to find something you like here.

Gun concepts.

From page one you are treated with professional level concept art. The presentation is slick and appealing giving you both a sense of the design options and how the fully rendered version would look like. I have yet to see another sketchbook pull this off to this level.

Another impressive feature in this sketchbook are the storyboards. They are crisp and detailed. Movements are readable, not only that but they give a great sense of atmosphere. All this with using only a monochrome style.

Example of Mack's storyboards.

Even Mack's sketches and life studies look unique. By simply using a beige colour pallet Mack produces an eye catching style for his studies. The shoes have a great depth to them that I don't think could be achieved with just black and white.

There are a few 3D models in the sketchbook. Again I am extremely impressed with the presentations. Not only do the models look great but by simply drawing a person next to the model we instantly get a sense of scale. The 3D creatures are imaginative and eye catching.

The only thing I would like to see in this sketchbook would be some youtube videos. I feel some quick speed drawing sessions would be very popular. I feel this sketchbook is better than some of the art book I have.

Picking a favourite piece was a challenge but I feel the image above is a great representation of Mack's skills. The character concept looks great but like all of Mack's pieces there is a presentational flair that I have not seen in any other sketchbook. Do not miss this sketchbook.

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Sketchbook review: Kvetchbook

Sketchbook: Kvetchbook
Artist: Kvetch
Link: http://conceptart.org/forums/showthread.php?242812-Kvetchbook

The thing I love about Kvetch's sketchbook is the potential shown. It starts off with some oblivious confidence issues but as the post come the talent grows. You can see the effort put into this sketchbook and you can get a sense of the commitment the artist has put into his craft. The transition from blurry lines to solid forms is an impressive feat making this sketchbook one to keep an eye on.

Blurry lines at the start of the sketchbook

The studies are sharp and crisp making them really enjoyable to look at. Some of the early ones display some really advanced theories like textured and reflective surfaces. These are really hard to pull off but Kvetch makes it look effortless.

Note the textured and reflective surfaces

One of Kvetch's strengths is knowing his weaknesses. His early figure work is a bit weak so he focused on tightening up his figure skills by a set of measurement exercises and just general practise. The study shown bellow is a fine example of what can be achieved when you focus on fixing your weaknesses.

Still life studies feature heavily in this sketchbook. Simplistic items such as mobile phones are rendered to near perfection. This attention to detail makes them eye catching and nearly tangible. These are by far some of the best still life studies I have seen in a long time.

There are some extremely inspiring imagination studies in this sketchbook. Using what looks like a custom brush at varying opacity produces a great stylised effect. I would love to see this expanded upon.

The only critique I can really give is I would like to see more imaginative figure studies. Kvetch seems to have a grasp of studying figures but I have not seen many unique character designs from him. I must say what the sketchbook lacks in figure work it more than makes up for in environments.

My highlighted piece has to be an environment. Kvetch has a natural ability for creating eye catching scenes and the piece bellow is my favourite. The futuristic feel combine with the eye catching yellow is really fun to look at. Everything feels crisp and neat yet still has a stylistic look to it. The background works perfectly with the foreground leading the eye around the image.

Be sure to check out Kvetch's sketchbook at http://conceptart.org/forums/showthread.php?242812-Kvetchbook