The Illustrator’s new friend: One paper for any technique
I’m often asked about what paper I use for my design and illustration projects I thought it’d be nice to make an in-depth introduction of my new and already constant friend—Bristol paper by Hahnemühle.
As I’m often asked about what paper I use for my design and illustration projects I thought it’d be nice to make an in-depth introduction of my new and already constant friend—Bristol paper by Hahnemühle. With 20 pages of ultra-smooth but sturdy surface the Bristol paper is the perfect choice for design and illustration projects allowing working with dry and fluid drawing media at the same time.
Keep in mind that this is my personal opinion and refers to how I work, although I believe you’ll find it helpful. I combine traditional and digital techniques so considering the diversity of projects and strict deadlines Bristol is a wise choice.
I decided to show it “in the field”—logotype project for a small business company called Lelemo (natural handmade souvenirs). Lavender was an inspirational symbol and I started with pencil sketches directly on Bristol paper (while instantly inhaling the fresh lavender flowers aroma)
After several pencil sketches I determined the best one for this project. You can see the examples with pencil, classical nib pen, brush and inks.
Brush and inks
Liner pen
The process was smooth and I could switch the materials without worrying whether the paper could handle it. For most projects I use liners considering time spent and that nib pens can scratch the surface when working too hard.
Adding some color tryouts before the computer postproduction is a very relaxing stage, there is little pressure so I tried both gouache and watercolor. Both paints absorbed quickly and dried quickly.
If you're working in a traditional multi-layering technique I strongly advise the use of specific paper (for acrylics, sumi-e, watercolors etc.), but for mixed media illustration project Bristol is perfect.
Time for scan and vectorizing. The bright white color of the paper allows for the easy scanning and isolating of subjects without elaborate post processing so all the last steps are usually made directly into Adobe Illustrator.
Layering opportunities
A big surprise was with layering opportunities.
This is sneak peek of a watercolor and gouache project for my new Skillshare class I’m working on now. I just wanted to show how the paper holds the layers and you can surprisingly easily combine some elements of classical techniques with liners and whatever possible.
The only trouble I had was with a masking tape. After using lots of water, the tape removes the top layer of the paper. In illustration and design projects I don't often use the tape, but if you're working on for example floral watercolor painting with background, you'd better use some specific watercolor paper.
To sum everything up, Bristol paper is an indispensable assistant for quick and enjoyable illustration and design working projects.
Berlin.Stadt.Magazin Exhibition
My very Berlin'ish work selected for the group exhibition Berlin.Stadt.Magazin – 45 Jahre tip Berlin + 40 Jahre Zitty by the famous Zitty Berlin magazine and Tip Berlin at Neurotitan Gallery in Haus Schwarzenberg!
So excited to have my very Berlin'ish work selected for the group exhibition Berlin.Stadt.Magazin – 45 Jahre tip Berlin + 40 Jahre Zitty by the famous Zitty Berlin magazine and Tip Berlin at Neurotitan Gallery in Haus Schwarzenberg!
The exhibition is opened till 22 of April in the wonderful Hackescher Markt area. Check the opening video for the atmosphere:
New Visions Exhibition
I'm proud to take part in "New Visions" exhibit held by Society of Illustrators, New York. The Society is proud to showcase a selection of work from our Illustrator-S members.
I'm proud to take part in "New Visions" exhibit held by Society of Illustrators, New York
The Society is proud to showcase a selection of work from our Illustrator-S members representing artists of diverse and unique talent under the age of 32 who have chosen to support our mission early in their careers.
Society of illustrators, New York. Anna Sokolova. New Visions
Since its inception in 1901, the Society, through its many distinguished members, has sought to promote the art of illustration. A prime requisite of membership is the active participation by each individual, and of the organization as a whole, to give voice to the spirit and being of the Society.
Our members support the Society's mission of promoting the art of illustration by appreciating its history and evolving nature through exhibitions, lectures and education.
Artists are inducted into the Society membership based on their body of work. Each Illustrator-S member has been accepted because of their tremendous talent and artistic skill, and these young members have begun to take on an active role in the community. We are proud to display a collection of pieces by our future leaders of the industry. "
Johnny Dombrowski art
Exhibition! Soceity of Illustrators, New York
I'm so excited to take part in Exhibition "Artists illustrating artists", which is opened this Tuesday!! My illustration "Ivan Bilibin" is on display at the Society of Illustrators, NY in New York from June 9th - August 15th, 2015.
http://www.societyillustrators.org/The-Museum/2015/Members-Open/Artists-Illustrating-Artists.aspx
Detail from my work, which is currently on display at the Society of Illustrators, NY in New York from June 9th - August 15th, 2015.
Some backstage shots
Выставка одной картины: FUTURUM II Анна Соколова
Скоро скоро в Центре Искусства и Музыки библиотеки им. Маяковского на Невском 20 откроется выставка FUTURUM II с моим психоделическим космонавтом:)
Exhibition poster. "One painting exhibition: FUTURUM II" by Anna Sokolova
Центр искусства и музыки библиотеки Маяковского, НТЦ Микроэлектроники РАН и ООО «Ленц» представляют проект «Выставка одной картины».
Данный цикл выставок позволит взглянуть на известных и любимых художников в новом свете в прямом смысле – т.е. в новом освещении. НТЦ Микроэлектроники РАН и ООО «Ленц» предоставляют Центру уникальный осветительный прибор.
Интеллектуальный светильник создан на основе принципа динамического RGB-цветосмешения и управляется компьютерной программой. Новые технологии RGB-светодиодного освещения позволяют менять цветовую температуру при освещении различных полотен, обеспечивая «индивидуальную» настройку для наилучшего восприятия цветовой палитры конкретной картины.
Проект станет экспериментальной площадкой для работы с принципиально новым освещением. Центр видит свою основную задачу в данном проекте в разработке оптимальных критериев и методики освещения, которые помогут создавать комфортную световую среду для произведения искусства. Проект можно назвать интерактивным, поскольку для создания методики необходимо активное участие зрителей.