River Process

Studies were made of cliffs and landscapes commonly occurring in Asiatic landscapes.  From this cliff/lakebed study, it began the idea process which later resulted in a full concept piece. 

A rough concept thumbnail was made utilizing photobashing and loose colour techniques. This was based on the previous thumbnails created and was chosen for higher polish. I tried to replicate the feel of the dense forests found in Asia, as well as using the tree and rock studies created to enhance the piece. Using the critical framework for the research, following the fundamental development techniques to produce pipeline-efficient work.

Higher polish, beginning in greyscale to build values and scale. The 2 headed giant idea was inspired by the original Jack the Giant Killer tale, which features a wide range of humanoid giant concepts, most of which have multiple heads. I tried to create a sense of density and humidity, using the light reflecting from the lake to generate atmospheric mist and spray.

Using the greyscale image as a template, I applied colour via various layer settings and adjustments. This is one of the many ways I can generate images, but I used this method in particular in order to preserve the values and depth necessary to sell the atmosphere. The bridge used in the midground was inspired by traditional Chinese cantilever-style bridges, and was lit particularly to show this.  I tried to lead the viewers eye with this piece, placing the character at the front, leading the eye around the treeline or along the river to the Giant silhouette. A regret of mine here was leaving the giant's figure lesser detailed, as looking back I can see where I might've added additional detail. However, the fog and silhouette adds a certain sense of looming dread, so it works.

Below - Cantilever-Style bridge