This piece came about as a prize for a raffle on Free Comic Book Day. The prize was a sketch of some kind. But, the winner planted the seed of this portrait in my head. The idea took root and grew--eventually taking on a life of it's own.
Settling on the composition early, I wanted to impart a sense of Burton's wild creativity and imagination. I decided to use his wild hair as a proxy for his wild imagination. A jumbled collection of characters from his movies surrounds him. Escaped from his imagination. Perhaps they comfort, or tease him while they remind us of his work.
The characters were done in a sketchy manner, as a nod to Burton's art style (which I quite enjoy). Initially, I was going to paint them up more and have them interacting with him. However, I decided to treat them more graphically--but not as graphically as I approached the hair.
I do feel that the piece is lacking something, and did not reach the heights I aspired too. I can't remember the last time I tackled a portrait in this fashion. Despite my lack of total satisfaction, I do have an appetite for more. I've got another portrait idea percolating--perhaps it's time to get it out on paper.
As usual, I used a combination of traditional and digital media on this illustration.
It is © Chris Chuckry.
Questions? Send me a note. I'll be happy to answer.
Thanks for stopping by.
