This Memorial Day,...it rained...so, after honoring our veterans and those who serve our country, I took creative advantage of the day.
 
I really needed a creative boost so, I began modeling a series of maquettes. 
I painted a beatboard to illustrate a particular scene in my project.  I've also included a turaround concept of my dragon character.
Using aluminum foil, I shaped the head and part of the neck of my character.  I use aluminum foil for two reasons: 1.) so that I do not have to use as much clay. 2.) ...so that the heat of the aluminum will help cure the sculpture evenly during the baking process.....yes, I'm gonna bake it later!!!!
I then wrapped the foil with Super Sulpey modeling compound. I like this particular brand because it holds its form better. I will build any necessary topology (snout, jaw, orbital ridge, etc.) as I work
Coming together.....so fun!!!!
I began carving in the nostrils and refining the jawline. Also began working on the forehead and orbital ridge.
Close up of eye and orbital ridge region!!!!
I began adding a frill for the dragon.  In the concept art, the dragon has a frill like that of a Triceratops. I moved away from that idea because it looked too heavy....I wanted a thinner, more streamlined character style. The frills now looks more like rudders to aid in flight.
Adding detail to the head.  I wanted bony shards protruding from his jawline for a dramatic effects.
My idea of a composite jackass and dragon......no???  Not working???
Adding teeth, texture and warts really aids in the dragon's menacing features.  Now he's ready for baking and painting.
Overall....the entire project took 12 hours to complete. I was on a serious roll.
......Stay tuned!!  More to come!!!!!
Dragon's Head
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Dragon's Head

A step-by-step process of building a dragon maquette.

Published: