another of the Elk series

[JayS]

Rideum51, Your attention to detail in the foreground is wonderful. I'm wondering about the upper background? The dark certainly provides contrast to the elk and will help him stand out. For this reason, this approach will work. However, traditional approaches would have the background lighter than the foreground. Would you share your thoughts? Are there other reasons for the dark background? Could you get the same contrast effect with a white background? I really love the wild tangle of vegetation in the foreground!

[rideum51]

The Duel Three4a 20220721_11243012.jpg

I got to this point before I saw Mike's comments. I'll post the original once I finish the drawing so they will be seen together. I guess I'm not yet at the point where I can re-imagine some things like an out of focus and far beyond background. Next up will be the completed work.
OMG it displayed properly.

[PogArtTi]

Next up will be the completed work.

Can't wait for the final art - it's stunning already!

[Mike Sibley]

OMG, it displayed properly.

Oh, ye of little faith! I knew you could do it

Regarding the dark background - I'm fine with that if it helps the drawing, which I think it will. I've certainly used it myself a few times. The only caveat is that the background must appear to be naturally dark - such as the side of the forest or wood that never sees the sun (north-facing in the northern hemisphere).

[rideum51]

Paying respect2a g2c-14flag 20220729_09310511.jpg

I've titled this "in the dim light of morning the Competition goes on". Although the battlers are the main subject I think they just kind of melt into the drawing rather than take over.

[PogArtTi]

What size is it please?
And I'm speachless, I can not say a word...
It's really unbelievably stunning art to me.
Congratulations!

[Mike Sibley]

Somehow, I switched directly from your drawing with the silhouetted Elk to the finished piece.... There's a word for a drawing such as this. I'm searching my memory for it. Oh, yes... stunning!

Well, I was certainly stunned, because the impact you've created is superb.

Although the battlers are the main subject, I think they just kind of melt into the drawing rather than take over.

I agree, and I'm convinced that’s because the detailed work, especially to our left, slightly overpowers them. Not enough to distract, but enough to pull my eye there briefly before it moves right to the Elk. And there... the contrast alone gives the Elk so much presence and power.

I'm still not a fan of that central out-of-focus area, but that's just my personal preference at play. I think you could have invented a degree of detail part-way between out-of-focus and the midground behind the rear Elk. In other words, there would be something recognisable there if I looked, but not intrusive. You could have seen it through a dust cloud too, given the action taking place.

Enough of that - just me thinking aloud. I think you've... this is not easy to explain... left one room and moved into the next on your journey.

And, fortunately, there's always another door in the far wall to reach

[rideum51]

Wow Pog and Mike your comments are so appreciated.

[Laurene]

Wonderful piece! Absolutely awesome!!

[LindasPencils]

Fabulous! I really get a sense that you understand the anatomy of the animal as well as the drama of this battle for dominance.