Tree sketches!!

And a teaser peak into my secret project

I've kicked off a new Digital Sketching workshop this semester! As I brainstormed ideas for what to draw with my class, the "tree" theme just popped into my head, inspiring me to recall one of my cherished stories about "Four Artists and One Tree."

I first came across this story at a Marc Davis exhibition many years ago. Marc Davis, one of the Nine Old Men at Disney, is one of my favorite character animators and designers. His elegant and graceful animation style can be seen in characters like Cinderella, Sleeping Beauty, Tinker Bell, and Cruella De Vil, but his personal art boasted a different, almost Picasso-like energy with a bold and masculine sensibility.

And then there's Eyvind Earle - I simply adore his unique art style! If I had to use just one word to describe his art, it would be "stunning"!

Here is the video about the "Four Artists and One Tree" story. It's really fun to see how different artists interpret the same subject and their works outside the studio. When we worked on an animation project, we had to learn how to draw in the "studio" or "project" style. After working on other people's projects for a long time, forgetting our personal style and voice is easy. It's always inspiring to see how these legendary masters stayed true to their vision outside of work.

I'm really hyped about my new graphic novel! I can't wait to share this book once it's officially announced. Right now, it's hush-hush!

Even though it's my own project, the art style is totally different from Marshmallow and Jordan. This new book draws heavily from the art of the Chinese Tang Dynasty. I've been practicing sketching and doodling in a style inspired by traditional Chinese paintings to nail down this new look. Nothing beats pencil mileage to get better at it!

So here is my take on a tree drawing in the style of my new graphic!! This is a real-time video with commentary! Enjoy!

The finish tree drawing.

This is a Photoshop sketch.

Lately, I've been feeling burnt out trying to juggle teaching and working on my graphic novel. So, to take a break, I decided to spend the weekend in nature for some fresh air. I found that sketching trees is super relaxing and healing. On our way to the beach, I did a quick sketch at Olivas Adobe Historic Park in Ventura, CA. I had to keep it loose and quick because Piglet was getting antsy and wanted to hit the beach.

A quick little watercolor and ink brush sketch during a Sunday outing.

And as promised, here's a little teaser peek into my unannounced secret graphic novel project! Here are some of the background designs from the book. I'm about halfway done with the final art.

Now I've got to get back to painting the book, one panel at a time!

Happy creative day! 💛

If you liked this post, you might also dig other art-related posts in the Art Tips collection. Check out the link for more fun reads!