tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-33120644513324057022024-02-19T02:12:39.908-08:00Kushiel ConceptsDiary of a Kushiel's Legacy illustration project inspired by Jacqueline Carey's mature fantasy novel series.Angela R. Sasserhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12236117446115598736noreply@blogger.comBlogger18125truetag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3312064451332405702.post-33298643368905317842016-10-27T16:30:00.001-07:002016-10-27T20:59:32.358-07:00Kushiel's Dart Art Analysis: Tran Nguyen<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://kushielconcepts.tumblr.com/post/150725385926/im-loving-these-new-illustrations-by-tran" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhlpMZ9e9WTe5Gfh_XHGCcELK28GAeQtL11J9jBH7AlkoZOvmmI3aVx3Q6mldZ1pTYpXFxQUsOAV2a_eyXJHQABZj1o_m46MEP4dc5a8DBwMG_p7SjhyqVNJbTt5CsmQD5pigcg-SzqMgA3/s640/tran-kushiel.jpg" width="419" /></a></div>
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See larger versions of the images <a href="http://kushielconcepts.tumblr.com/post/150725385926/im-loving-these-new-illustrations-by-tran">here</a>!</div>
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<a href="http://subterraneanpress.com/store/product_detail/kushiels_dart">Subterranean Press</a> recently released a special edition of Kushiel's Dart (which is already sold out) featuring new art by <a href="http://www.mynameistran.com/">Tran Nguyen</a>. Being a fan of Tran's already, I was ecstatic to see one of my favorite books illustrated by one of my favorite artists! As an artist endeavoring to create art for this world, I thought I'd share my thoughts on these illustrations for my own education (and for other curious minds).</div>
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First off, that main cover image. What a risky move it was to portray Phèdre without relying on her iconic tattoo or eye coloration! The cover relies on atmosphere dripping in sensuality and a dreamlike quality, which suits those moments of divinity that mark the lives of the characters of Kushiel's Dart during their most trying times. The hint of an angelic figure lifting Phèdre up perfectly plays on her connection to the divine. The faint silhouette of a city on the bottom right also does well to place the narrative in a picturesque medieval land. </div>
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My only critique would be that the image doesn't seem to crop very well to the front cover, in my opinion. I would have liked to see more of a hint of wing on the front cover in the corner, since it's such a telling detail. These are just minor complaints, however, as the whole cover is so dreamy and gorgeous! It's also a perfect supplement to the previous cover art by <a href="http://www.johnjudepalencar.com/">John Jude Palencar</a>, Tran's art being a more feminine subtle rendition similar to his.</div>
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As for the new interior art, it's wonderful to see Joscelin portrayed, especially! He's a character that never seems to get as much lime light as other characters when it comes to interpretations. Tran's portrayal of him is spot on to my mind's eye, though I would have liked to have seen more attention paid to his iconic twin vambraces, which I always envision as metal instead of leather, an important detail to the lore of the novel. Even still, the simplicity of the composition is elegant and beautiful.</div>
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Last, but certainly not least, we have Melisande and Phedre adorned in their masquerade attire for the Longest Night, an image many fans (including myself) have been waiting for! Melisande's imposing figure in the composition clasping Phèdre's with the leash wrapping around them both is perfection and I love the choice of physical features for both characters. Melisande reminds me of Monica Bellucci, who I always cast as Melisande in my headcannon. </div>
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I would have liked to have seen Phedre with a more elated expression in this piece to show Melisande's power over her. I also would have enjoyed seeing them with their bird themed masks, but the presence of the masks may have distracted from their gorgeous facial features. I'm not a fan of the night gown style for Phèdre's diamond studded sheer dress either, but I can understand the need for it to keep the interior art PG.</div>
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All in all, I hope Tran starts selling prints soon! I know I'm not the only one who would love collecting these images. I'm always happy to see more official Kushiel's Legacy art, especially when it's this gorgeous!</div>
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What do you all think of these new illustrations of our favorite Kushiel characters? Share in comments!</div>
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<br />Angela R. Sasserhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12236117446115598736noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3312064451332405702.post-33606210434100632052015-09-15T18:54:00.001-07:002016-10-27T15:11:59.649-07:00New Covers for Phedre's TrilogyHere are the re-released covers of Phedre's trilogy all together in one place! I'm still a fan of the older covers painted by <a href="http://www.johnjudepalencar.com/">John Jude Palencar</a>, but I'm always happy to see new art for this series. Definitely inspiring for me to keep going with my own cover re-designs!<div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTK9MXhACDb3Z3xhhyphenhyphenSs2d396TYhJUpeG1SdqzUg2friEwDqmN2LJs6-MbjZ7qcIQCxQycqL_wXev3VlKHkasjVjmZWFHcDdoueYiQ1C8jIfvrbRlU_wNs4qJy5jYKCBkPzlreuMpnj8uf/s1600/kushiels-dart.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTK9MXhACDb3Z3xhhyphenhyphenSs2d396TYhJUpeG1SdqzUg2friEwDqmN2LJs6-MbjZ7qcIQCxQycqL_wXev3VlKHkasjVjmZWFHcDdoueYiQ1C8jIfvrbRlU_wNs4qJy5jYKCBkPzlreuMpnj8uf/s320/kushiels-dart.jpg" width="214" /></a></div>
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Angela R. Sasserhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12236117446115598736noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3312064451332405702.post-30823910960870225252014-10-13T10:22:00.001-07:002014-10-13T10:33:07.999-07:00The Sun Prince and Naamah MasksI haven't made this Sun Prince mask in a long time! This particular one is going to serve in a Kushiel themed wedding ceremony along with a matching Naamah mask.<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjgvmbtXXtMKHzmhXWzLLDnkuZv0AWEcQ1xm4RcTw47vZe8mqSVkpN9NC3mYV2u77S0vicGjJ-cTuJMTwg1HowIScG9wYRz2VC8DXxazGR2-CmKpsHkBEgojrKdOZnTG9vqCPeuTiO2iman/s1600/10727371_767788689946321_465428047_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjgvmbtXXtMKHzmhXWzLLDnkuZv0AWEcQ1xm4RcTw47vZe8mqSVkpN9NC3mYV2u77S0vicGjJ-cTuJMTwg1HowIScG9wYRz2VC8DXxazGR2-CmKpsHkBEgojrKdOZnTG9vqCPeuTiO2iman/s1600/10727371_767788689946321_465428047_n.jpg" height="400" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The Sun Prince.</td></tr>
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This'll be the first time I've made it with real pheasant tail feathers!<br />
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This mask was carved from leather and painted with acrylics. I added the small Swarovski crystal cabochons by hand with tweezers.<br />
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I'm currently closed for artisan commissions, but you can find out when I'm available for them again by signing up to my mailing list over at my site, <a href="http://www.angelicartisan.com/">www.angelicartisan.com</a> .<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLdNIf-lWbMUyAp1JMyPNemC7FxosuvfVBL8x0AV2mzewX0UuKQ-f7KJD_iQQ3xfkZEcSKm8me66C22GW-v3V922P4AMhyphenhyphenT3V5gZISlHvl0QOUaejy_I9xwk2xewV1UZcqd_5wXKOusJ5P/s1600/e0c63e8023670bb12469b1d5a4d43585-d4gyo68.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLdNIf-lWbMUyAp1JMyPNemC7FxosuvfVBL8x0AV2mzewX0UuKQ-f7KJD_iQQ3xfkZEcSKm8me66C22GW-v3V922P4AMhyphenhyphenT3V5gZISlHvl0QOUaejy_I9xwk2xewV1UZcqd_5wXKOusJ5P/s1600/e0c63e8023670bb12469b1d5a4d43585-d4gyo68.jpg" height="317" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The Sun Prince and Naamah masks.</td></tr>
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<span class="text_exposed_show" style="background-color: white; color: #444444; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', HelveticaNeue, Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 19.6000003814697px;"><br /></span>Angela R. Sasserhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12236117446115598736noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3312064451332405702.post-36992431577163404162014-08-18T17:16:00.001-07:002014-08-19T09:37:11.944-07:00Character Sketch - Joscelin Verreuil - Protect and Serve<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFqLiA1tWNQslOgmfs86Csgy1I9Ql-7n7rky3ILUer5c-Y4pKz-oVD80H9rVobxmVl_XtuIwZ8VJNhf4AIJCeCW8vLdtL1rMpVKk7gBbusRkRaM0Q4QqsZBBjrjYc-bAEhtdntcfm6uatV/s1600/joscelin-protect-and-serve.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFqLiA1tWNQslOgmfs86Csgy1I9Ql-7n7rky3ILUer5c-Y4pKz-oVD80H9rVobxmVl_XtuIwZ8VJNhf4AIJCeCW8vLdtL1rMpVKk7gBbusRkRaM0Q4QqsZBBjrjYc-bAEhtdntcfm6uatV/s1600/joscelin-protect-and-serve.jpg" height="640" width="381" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">8x10 inches, HB and 6B graphite pencils on paper.</td></tr>
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<blockquote>
<i>The young man standing in the shadows behind me bowed in
the traditional manner of the Cassiline Brotherhood, hands crossed
before him at chest level. Warm sunlight gleamed on the steel of his
vambraces and the chain-mail that gauntleted the backs of his hands.
His twin daggers hung low on his belt and the cruciform hilt of his
sword, always worn at the back, rose above his shoulders. He
straightened and met my eyes.<br /><br />"Phèdre nó Delaunay," he said formally, "I am Joscelin Verreuil of the Cassiline Brotherhood. It is my privilege to attend."<br /><br />He neither looked nor sounded as though he meant it...</i><br />
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- Phedre meets Joscelin for the first time in <i>Kushiel's Dart</i> by Jacqueline Carey.</blockquote>
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This was a sketch prize for reaching 1000 Likes on this project's Facebook <a href="http://www.facebook.com/kushielconcepts" target="_blank">fan page</a>.
I was so happy to get the chance to draw Joscelin Verreuil, who does
not have near enough fan art of him, considering what a BAMF he is in
the books.<br />
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EDIT: I've also created some wallpapers customized for your desktop, laptops, and phones <a href="http://sta.sh/21xyenzplw3z" target="_blank">here</a>, plus a sweet, sweet high res version where you can oggle all the details on Joscelin! My little way of saying thanks for being an awesome fandom.;)Angela R. Sasserhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12236117446115598736noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3312064451332405702.post-497931713869132182014-06-30T10:16:00.003-07:002014-06-30T10:23:44.857-07:00Fan Art Feature: Jessica Cox aka. ZeldynIf you haven’t seen the amazing and inspiring Kushiel’s Legacy fan art by Jessica Cox, you are missing out! <div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://kushielconcepts.tumblr.com/post/90366076586/if-you-havent-seen-the-amazing-and-inspiring" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqdUMMjhMezMvktPzpLq0spxfyrtyf_6FSzzpnr_PVsHdUH1OSTK4JcjUQ2f_DFvNdTeK9VVErYIkpgucCgo2P4Dk3W4sD-5Zm_cGJY92KxF_Tz20A4cDMkZbE8nKLdIW295cNBLQzwTzp/s1600/Untitled-1.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">See the full sized images at the <a href="http://kushielconcepts.tumblr.com/post/90366076586/if-you-havent-seen-the-amazing-and-inspiring" target="_blank">Kushiel Concepts tumblr post</a>.</td></tr>
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<br /><br />Her work has long inspired me to move forward with my own interpretations of these beloved characters from the series. I especially love her take on Melisande and Favrielle. They are simply as my mind pictured them!<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;">
You can see more of Jessica’s artwork at her <a href="http://zknowsbest.wordpress.com/">blog</a>.</div>
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</div>Angela R. Sasserhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12236117446115598736noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3312064451332405702.post-35990746453467859792014-06-12T09:02:00.000-07:002014-06-12T09:02:08.859-07:00Kushiel Concepts Pinterest Inspiration Board<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiOHeuB-BSQUlAJ9b_OBPHXf-MrNHCiJzeEudTOl8sebfvnMwlOOSKYRkQFEl1_vFnqwnYHerSdGpzsv147_S2hIV02rNxkCIQrTs91GrO4FoiDrLz1UmmK07YIVLZdg9_bR7yiPAb5JgJj/s1600/kushiels-legacy-pinterest.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiOHeuB-BSQUlAJ9b_OBPHXf-MrNHCiJzeEudTOl8sebfvnMwlOOSKYRkQFEl1_vFnqwnYHerSdGpzsv147_S2hIV02rNxkCIQrTs91GrO4FoiDrLz1UmmK07YIVLZdg9_bR7yiPAb5JgJj/s1600/kushiels-legacy-pinterest.jpg" height="261" width="400" /></a></div>
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I’ve been busy with my other projects, but no worries. I haven’t forgotten this one! I’m constantly adding inspiring images that make me think of the Kushiel’s Legacy series over at Pinterest with plans to use them for this project. <br /><br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;">
Be sure to give it a Follow, if you’d like to keep up!</div>
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<a href="http://www.pinterest.com/angelicshadow/kushiels-legacy/">http://www.pinterest.com/angelicshadow/kushiels-legacy/</a></div>
Angela R. Sasserhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12236117446115598736noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3312064451332405702.post-90518322107574132402014-04-16T10:55:00.001-07:002014-04-16T10:55:14.047-07:00New Kushiel's Legacy Ebook CoversHave you seen the new covers for the Kushiel’s Legacy ebooks (UK versions)? So simple and elegant! Read more about them <a href="http://torbooks.co.uk/2014/04/15/jacqueline-carey-reissues-stunning-new-cover-art/">here</a>.<span style="background-color: white; color: #444444; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', HelveticaNeue, Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 19.600000381469727px;"><br /></span>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjnD5QD2Xrj_o2dDyD6D2EZG5Bk-Q34IE5s7nbuxcde1YpAF8RkVN3mGFgW504Y7AQJ_o25HwIBGiS4Wr93vHpCSYGwKWrMTRjC73b9lubx0RntCfSOBomtu0dVPSHbcLS4El1-L0iEPDAM/s1600/Kushiels-Avatar-390x600.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjnD5QD2Xrj_o2dDyD6D2EZG5Bk-Q34IE5s7nbuxcde1YpAF8RkVN3mGFgW504Y7AQJ_o25HwIBGiS4Wr93vHpCSYGwKWrMTRjC73b9lubx0RntCfSOBomtu0dVPSHbcLS4El1-L0iEPDAM/s1600/Kushiels-Avatar-390x600.jpg" height="640" width="420" /></a>Angela R. Sasserhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12236117446115598736noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3312064451332405702.post-15047548401291687972013-12-02T14:41:00.006-08:002013-12-02T14:41:49.932-08:00Kushiel's Dart - Portrait Sketches - Young Phèdre, Hyacinthe, and Dowayne MiriamIt's been a little while since I posted last. Life keeps throwing <a href="http://blog.angelicshades.com/2013/09/artists-and-illusion-of-failure.html">surprise punches</a> at me, but I'm back at the drawing desk again with some warm up sketches inspired by re-reading <i>Kushiel's Dart</i>! Consider these 'getting to know you' sort of sketches while I figure out the look for each character as I go along.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">HB and 6B graphite drawing pencil on 60 lb paper.</td></tr>
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Phèdre definitely has shades of <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Eva_Green">Eva Green</a>, who I once saw in a fan casting call for the series and thought her quite fitting for the role of Phèdre. I tried to give her French features as Terre d'Ange is the quintessential fantasy France. I think I'm close to that mind's eye image I have of her here in her first sketch, but I'll keep plugging along and seeing how she develops in future sketches!<br />
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Hyacinthe is a bit goofy. Smiles have always been so difficult for me to draw! I tried to keep in mind his ethnic features as well, considering the Tsingano are very close culturally to the Rom (Gypsy).<br />
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As for Dowayne, I'm rather happy with her! She reminds a bit of <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Susan_Sarandon">Susan Sarandon</a>, despite the fact I did not think of this visual connection until after the fact. I find this quite fitting, however, considering her propensity for playing the part of iron-willed gracefully aged women.<br />
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I expect I'll keep sketching characters as I read along!<br />
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On a parting note, notice on the top of the blog there are tabs for page sections now! You can check out the <a href="http://kushielconcepts.blogspot.com/p/art-list.html">Art List</a> to see what other illustrations I have planned or see the <a href="http://kushielconcepts.blogspot.com/p/gallery_10.html">Gallery</a> for other Kushiel-related art I've already finished.<br />
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I'm having so much fun with this side project and I hope you all will enjoy the journey with me!</div>
Angela R. Sasserhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12236117446115598736noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3312064451332405702.post-9897058075506980082013-07-26T05:43:00.002-07:002014-04-22T06:25:16.589-07:00Kushiel's Dart Art PrintsFor those who enjoyed my latest Kushiel's Dart cover piece, Jacqueline was kind enough to give her blessing on selling prints. I may have to stop selling them should the TV/movie options ever be sold, but that's an instance where I would be more than happy to oblige doing so!<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">"Kushiel's Dart", digital painting.<br />
Prints available at <a href="http://angelicshades.storenvy.com/search?q=kushiel%27s+dart" target="_blank">my Storenvy shop</a>!</td></tr>
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I am offering a more affordable photographic print option as well as a limited edition stretched canvas option. I produce the former myself with my own Epson Artisan printer. With the latter, I order from a giclee canvas printing source, which I hand stretch across a wood frame. Both come signed by the artist directly from the artist.<br />
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I hope you all will enjoy this offering! Meanwhile, I am preparing art for show at both <a href="http://www.dragoncon.org/">Dragon*Con</a> and <a href="http://www.illuxcon.com/">Illuxcon </a>(where you can see this piece on display), so I may go dormant here for a little while.<br />
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It's usually when I say this that my distractable muse finds me doodling the most!Angela R. Sasserhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12236117446115598736noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3312064451332405702.post-81871702117379730102013-07-24T10:16:00.001-07:002014-04-22T06:26:04.674-07:00Sketch Diary: Kushiel's Dart Cover Part 3After designing <a href="http://kushielconcepts.blogspot.com/2013/06/designing-phedres-marque.html">Phedre's marque</a> and <a href="http://kushielconcepts.blogspot.com/2013/07/designing-kushiel-angel-of-punishment.html">Kushiel</a>, this painting has finally arrived at finished! It's been a long, long journey and there was a definite turning point in the middle where this image changed completely, much to my surprise.<br />
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What was the turning point? The biggest one was a change in color scheme inspired by <a href="http://muddycolors.blogspot.com/2013/06/kushiels-dart-book-cover.html">Giancola's beautiful cover for Kushiel's Dart</a>. I decided mine was too similar and wanted to strike out on my own by experimenting with the color scheme, swapping the strong reds and whites for jewel tone garnet and pale blues. The difference was like night and day! Check out this process video to see how the painting morphed into what it is today:<br />
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<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="//www.youtube.com/embed/KZSj8Su147Q?list=UUuksWWDuQg3xXJFVLo6SObw" width="460"></iframe> <br />
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The finished art:<br />
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<a href="http://angelasasser.deviantart.com/art/Kushiel-s-Dart-387773489" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://fc03.deviantart.net/fs71/i/2013/204/e/7/kushiel_s_dart_by_angelasasser-d6evbxt.jpg" height="276" width="400" /></a></div>
<a href="http://angelasasser.deviantart.com/art/Kushiel-s-Dart-387773489">Kushiel's Dart</a> by =<a class="u" href="http://angelasasser.deviantart.com/">AngelaSasser</a> on <a href="http://www.deviantart.com/">deviantART</a><br />
Prints available at <a href="http://angelicshades.storenvy.com/search?q=kushiel%27s+dart" target="_blank">my Storenvy shop</a>.<br />
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You can also view a step-by-step with detailed notes<a href="http://www.wipnation.com/posts?PostKey=10588"> at WiPnation</a>.<br />
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What did I learn?</h3>
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- Keep it simple! If I were to start over, I would make this even more simple, since I got very carried away by all the details. Clear figures and composition with a hint of narrative to tease the mystery are better than jam packed images that tell you everything. <br />
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- <a href="http://kushielconcepts.blogspot.com/2013/06/master-copy-offering-to-venus.html">Master copies</a> are the best medicine if you're ever stuck on a piece!<br />
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- Don't be afraid to 'murder your darlings'. I changed this image SO many times by the end that I pretty much destroyed it - ALL in service of making a more successful piece.<br />
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What's next?</h3>
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Inspiration begets inspiration! I'd love to return to the carving of Kushiel and brush up the design, as well as try my hand at the rest of Elua's companions in the same window carving style. <br />
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Considering how much I learned from this exercise, I'd really love to try my hand at rendering other covers in the series. I've been wanting to re-read the books and this would be the perfect excuse. I'm sure character sketches and other art will sprout up along the way. I hope you'll stay tuned!<br />
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<a href="http://kushielconcepts.blogspot.com/2013/04/sketch-dairy-kushiels-dart-cover-part-1.html">Go to Part 1</a></div>
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<a href="http://kushielconcepts.blogspot.com/2013/06/sketch-dairy-kushiels-dart-cover-part-2.html"></a><a href="http://kushielconcepts.blogspot.com/2013/06/sketch-dairy-kushiels-dart-cover-part-2.html">Back to Part 2</a></div>
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Angela R. Sasserhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12236117446115598736noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3312064451332405702.post-21250103907389227132013-07-09T21:26:00.000-07:002013-07-09T22:02:07.617-07:00Designing Kushiel the Angel of Punishment<div>
After <a href="http://kushielconcepts.blogspot.com/2013/06/designing-phedres-marque.html">designing Phèdre's marque</a>, the next phase of my painting involves the wall carving in front of Phèdre, where I plan to include a wall carving of Kushiel to ground the temple setting.</div>
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But what exactly does the Angel of Punishment look like?</div>
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Bronze wings. A haze of red. A whip of fire to punish nations. <i>Kushiel of rod and weal. </i>The Punisher of God never quite gets a detailed description in the series beyond his appearance as a temple statue and the presence Phèdre experiences during her spiritual and physical moments of duress. That's where I get to have a lot of fun as an artist playing around with my own interpretation!</div>
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I began by researching how others have rendered Kushiel. There are surprisingly not a lot of fan works involving him. This rendition of Kushiel captures the vibe I get when I read his description. Long haired, dark, beautiful, classical Romanesque clothing, and, of course the three keys to Hell engraved in his belt (Kushiel's symbol as adopted by House Sharizhai):</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://xsilverleenx.deviantart.com/art/Kushiel-Rising-259731282" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://fc01.deviantart.net/fs71/i/2011/265/7/e/kushiel_rising_by_xsilverleenx-d4amxxu.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption"><a href="http://xsilverleenx.deviantart.com/art/Kushiel-Rising-259731282">Kushiel Rising</a> by ~<a href="http://xsilverleenx.deviantart.com/">XsilverleenX</a></td></tr>
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I also very much like the idea of Kushiel wearing a bronze mask just as his priests do. The idea of contrasting his angelic nature with his role as a punisher with the donning of a foreboding mask feels right to me.</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://winneganfake.deviantart.com/art/Kushiel-183953814" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="262" src="http://fc03.deviantart.net/fs71/f/2010/298/f/d/fdd536344dfda546b5e1b566701d55c9-d31iro6.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption"><a href="http://winneganfake.deviantart.com/art/Kushiel-183953814">Kushiel</a> by *<a href="http://winneganfake.deviantart.com/">Winneganfake</a></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1lzeCOIdPMgyG9widb2ayh2yeGRCjIGbKD9MRQwS379UZAKk6Yxh4SO52rWN3rX3xdq4EfOPHcmaOsjWfOV6z4P0NseOcFRQQ5Y3vbsHvExDsaNZZ-UkDiagkzI18md4pA3wL5n2qu58n/s1600/moodboard-kushiel.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="341" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1lzeCOIdPMgyG9widb2ayh2yeGRCjIGbKD9MRQwS379UZAKk6Yxh4SO52rWN3rX3xdq4EfOPHcmaOsjWfOV6z4P0NseOcFRQQ5Y3vbsHvExDsaNZZ-UkDiagkzI18md4pA3wL5n2qu58n/s400/moodboard-kushiel.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">My mood board for Kushiel. More on <a href="http://pinterest.com/angelicshadow/kushiels-legacy/">my Pinterest</a>.</td></tr>
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I let all of the imagery that felt right to me simmer in my brain and arrived at this design for the wall panel:<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgls4pCwN3CeI6yWCOAd_XMND66QLTxalRUkGF2m47HsR5FDZd2-2Cc7GKOUotJFAC5yQoc6M5I3iQ9L7UCApfe35sKL4-VRGcBkt_TZVeeWNeME9rx8UbPre6ZwPZxwzWoBd54xosYwuCZ/s1600/kushiel-panel.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgls4pCwN3CeI6yWCOAd_XMND66QLTxalRUkGF2m47HsR5FDZd2-2Cc7GKOUotJFAC5yQoc6M5I3iQ9L7UCApfe35sKL4-VRGcBkt_TZVeeWNeME9rx8UbPre6ZwPZxwzWoBd54xosYwuCZ/s1600/kushiel-panel.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">You can see a larger version of <br />
my three key design <a href="http://angelasasser.deviantart.com/art/The-Keys-of-Kushiel-384105687">here</a>.</td></tr>
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Finally, have a sneak peek at Kushiel as he is in my painting:</div>
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I'm halfway done now and hope to share the finished version soon! Till then, feel free to tell me how you envision Kushiel or link to other fan works of him. I'm curious to know how other fans have rendered him!</div>
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PS. Did you know that Kushiel was also in an old Shin Megami Tensei (Persona) game? </div>
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Take a look at his <a href="http://megamitensei.wikia.com/wiki/Kushiel">bizarre design</a>!</div>
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Angela R. Sasserhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12236117446115598736noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3312064451332405702.post-22456744957407389842013-06-30T18:44:00.002-07:002014-02-07T12:51:44.842-08:00Designing Phèdre's MarqueEveryone who has read the Kushiel's Legacy series instantly recognizes the twisting knotwork of Phèdre's rose marque. It's become so iconic with the series that it was a very tough decision to decide to change it at all! I decided I should continue my pattern of trying to be a special snowflake by designing my own version.<br />
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Admittedly, I also always thought the established marque, while lovely, doesn't quite work with the description. Here's a refresher for you all:</div>
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<i>"With some effort, I recognised the underlying design, which was based on a very old pattern, the briar rose. Somehow Master Tielhard had kept the dramatic vigor of the archaic lines, yet infused them with a subtlety that spoke at once of the vine, the bond and the lash. The thorny lines were stark black, accented in only a few choice hollows with a teardrop of scarlet - a petal, a drop of blood, the mote in my eye."</i></blockquote>
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-Phèdre no Delaunay, <i>Kushiel's Dart</i> by Jacqueline Carey</blockquote>
Bearing that in mind, the first indicator of the look is the fact it takes Phèdre effort to actually discover the underlying floral arrangement of the design. Here are some wonderful versions by other fans that I drew on for inspiration during my research process:<br />
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<a href="http://fc04.deviantart.net/fs9/i/2006/056/5/0/Phedre___Briar_Rose_by_elegaer.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://fc04.deviantart.net/fs9/i/2006/056/5/0/Phedre___Briar_Rose_by_elegaer.jpg" height="320" width="212" /></a><a href="http://th09.deviantart.net/fs9/PRE/i/2006/051/8/a/Phedre__s_Marque___versions_by_elegaer.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://th09.deviantart.net/fs9/PRE/i/2006/051/8/a/Phedre__s_Marque___versions_by_elegaer.jpg" height="318" width="320" /></a></div>
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Both of these examples are by <a href="http://elegaer.deviantart.com/">Elegaer on DeviantART</a></div>
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<b>EDIT: </b> <i>Thanks to Google 'search by image', I've finally located this cosplayer <a href="http://sarcasm-hime.deviantart.com/art/Phedre-no-Delaunay-198485391">here</a>!</i> I found this version via Tumblr, but don't know the cosplayer/photographer. If you know them, please comment so that I may properly credit them! The curling vines in this version really stood out to me as truer to the 'briar rose' inspiration.</div>
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I went through a few iterations, some which swung wildly from a very literal rose bush and others that went more abstract. In the end, I decided to keep it simple and to preserve the flail 'tail' of the original design (with some slight modification) because it feels to me like the perfect representation of 'bond and lash' all rolled in to one.</div>
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<a href="http://angelasasser.deviantart.com/art/Phedre-s-Marque-Variations-381871226" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" src="http://fc07.deviantart.net/fs71/i/2013/181/b/5/phedre_s_marque_variations_by_angelasasser-d6bctq2.jpg" height="265" width="400" /></a></div>
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Finally arriving at this cleaned up version:</div>
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<a href="http://angelasasser.deviantart.com/art/Phedre-s-Marque-Final-Version-381943571" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://fc00.deviantart.net/fs70/i/2013/181/5/6/phedre_s_marque_final_version_by_angelasasser-d6bedjn.png" height="400" width="198" /></a></div>
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Trying it out on the character's back:</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiL6CDzR6tOeXUMEesX6iOHZWMKAlthR97hpvgfaOBQSKR5YVxku3JYwPj5esANgKjNYNjoeUQA9sqhYXlQjSBfBC9FCz-srH8HruQ8swll_d4fpC-2O03uOcz1Vg9Abl8uBB2sAhilhQKh/s800/nude-phedre.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiL6CDzR6tOeXUMEesX6iOHZWMKAlthR97hpvgfaOBQSKR5YVxku3JYwPj5esANgKjNYNjoeUQA9sqhYXlQjSBfBC9FCz-srH8HruQ8swll_d4fpC-2O03uOcz1Vg9Abl8uBB2sAhilhQKh/s640/nude-phedre.jpg" height="640" width="443" /></a></div>
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This nude version won't be the final painting, which will be more bookstore appropriate, but I wanted to share it here, anyways.</div>
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Next up, designing Kushiel, the Angel of Punishment! If you should happen to use my version of Phèdre's marque for your fan endeavors, I'd appreciate a credit back to me as the artist. Otherwise, have fun!</div>
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Angela R. Sasserhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12236117446115598736noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3312064451332405702.post-52682098500639285082013-06-28T14:42:00.000-07:002013-07-25T14:05:59.960-07:00Sketch Dairy: Kushiel's Dart Cover Part 2The last entry involved a lot of ideation about the composition of the cover. Well, we're not through yet! Here comes the fun part that the research nerd in me adores.<br />
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Gathering Reference</h3>
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The reason I gather references after creating my thumbnails instead of before is so that I can preserve the energy of my drawing without getting caught up on details that don't need to be defined just yet. It can be a real time sink when you're trying to get ideas out fast!<br />
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But now? Research, glorious research! Here are just a few of the images I pulled up to get my creative juices flowing:<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhVYPyJCYqax2cyUbg39YL14JJ-PIgsmNNuRXurVsJ_F-9ouKWYzzmpioSWHrcjsdqb8daY-X0rH0qpDSNKtn3kEk4jf8xElvBfCaNygebljouGyTtxU1ycxhjONCXTg18okE5Od8L2Qop1/s800/kushiel-dart-refs.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="340" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhVYPyJCYqax2cyUbg39YL14JJ-PIgsmNNuRXurVsJ_F-9ouKWYzzmpioSWHrcjsdqb8daY-X0rH0qpDSNKtn3kEk4jf8xElvBfCaNygebljouGyTtxU1ycxhjONCXTg18okE5Od8L2Qop1/s400/kushiel-dart-refs.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">This is just a sample of the items I've gathered <br />
on my <a href="http://pinterest.com/angelicshadow/kushiel-s-legacy/">Kushiel's Legacy Board on Pinterest</a>.</td></tr>
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The visual themes I kept in mind while I researched:<br />
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- Classical Orientalist/Romantic paintings<br />
- Blood red roses<br />
- White marble<br />
- Sheer cloth<br />
- Glowing skin<br />
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I also lit and photographed my own references for the figure. Here's just one from the set of many that I took trying to get it right:<br />
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<a href="http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v89/ladydove7/stock/kushiels-dart-ref_zpsec13269d.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v89/ladydove7/stock/kushiels-dart-ref_zpsec13269d.jpg" width="298" /></a></div>
<a href="http://www.blogger.com/"></a><span id="goog_1974806311"></span><span id="goog_1974806312"></span><br />
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<a name='more'></a>The Color Study</h3>
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After getting more concrete visuals in mind, I finally was brave enough to put digital brush to digital canvas:<br />
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<a href="http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v89/ladydove7/wip/kushiels-dart-cover-wip-02_zps6a3f9621.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="276" src="http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v89/ladydove7/wip/kushiels-dart-cover-wip-02_zps6a3f9621.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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I liked the idea of having neutral tones with the garnet red as a vivid accent to draw the viewer's eye. Blood red has become so symbolic to this series as well. However, after <a href="http://www.muddycolors.blogspot.com/2013/06/kushiels-dart-book-cover.html">Donato's cover </a>came out during my progress, I decided our versions were too similar and that mine needed re-tooling.</div>
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The Rough Draft</h3>
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What could I change to make this image more unique? In the end, I opted for more ceremonial garb and to switch the red to the roses, where they lead the eye around the image instead of overwhelming it, as the dress in the color study did. I also read the commentary by fans of the series about how the red dress also felt inappropriate, since it was featured so prominently in <i>Kushiel's Chosen</i>.</div>
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So here we have my progress thus far! Still very rough and using a photomanipped version of the original marque's design as a placeholder until I can decide what kind of marque to use, but that's a <a href="http://kushielconcepts.blogspot.com/2013/06/designing-phedres-marque.html">whole other entry</a>, altogether.</div>
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For now, enjoy this glimpse of my work in progress till the final comes along! </div>
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For a detailed step-by-step with process notes, <a href="http://www.wipnation.com/posts?PostKey=10588">see this painting at WiPnation</a>.</div>
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<a href="http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v89/ladydove7/wip/kushiels-dart-cover-wip-04_zps19cb7e08.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="276" src="http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v89/ladydove7/wip/kushiels-dart-cover-wip-04_zps19cb7e08.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://kushielconcepts.blogspot.com/2013/04/sketch-dairy-kushiels-dart-cover-part-1.html">Back to Part 1</a></h2>
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On to Part 3 (Coming soon!)</h2>
<br />Angela R. Sasserhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12236117446115598736noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3312064451332405702.post-86188156294607834492013-06-19T11:02:00.001-07:002013-06-19T11:03:25.378-07:00Master Copy - Offering to VenusRe-sharing this study here since I painted it specifically to guide me in painting the redo of the cover of Kushiel's Dart that I'm currently working on. This painting has given me some fantastic ideas about how to handle Phedre's wardrobe as well. I can't wait to get back to it!<br />
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<blockquote>
<a href="http://blog.angelicshades.com/2013/06/what-i-learned-from-master-copying.html">What I Learned from Master Copying - Offering to Venus</a><br />
I recently finished a master copy of John William Godward’s painting, <em>Offering to Venus</em>. This was my first ever attempt at copying a masterwork and it’s proven to be a most enlightening experience! Many thanks to <a href="http://samhogg.blogspot.com/">Sam Hogg</a> for her suggestion to try this exercise and <a href="http://samhogg.blogspot.com/2011/07/art-of-copying-masters-that-is.html">her tutorials</a> on the matter.</blockquote>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZdkNMf3ZdmR25QYQBfCUadmhD2ZliycSM-jV_oewYVgq36SJ5Y71VQXTo4f4pQQzRUuv59xfbzQGT6rxYApBHlNaY69yP4WgZ0xaburW8yAjcZpdZR9MADzep5IW9DvUIFA2iQr7GSKON/s1600/offering-to-venus-wip-09.jpg"><img alt="image" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZdkNMf3ZdmR25QYQBfCUadmhD2ZliycSM-jV_oewYVgq36SJ5Y71VQXTo4f4pQQzRUuv59xfbzQGT6rxYApBHlNaY69yP4WgZ0xaburW8yAjcZpdZR9MADzep5IW9DvUIFA2iQr7GSKON/s400/offering-to-venus-wip-09.jpg" width="382" /></a></div>
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See a step by step with detailed notes <a href="http://www.wipnation.com/posts?PostKey=10828">at WiPnation.</a></div>
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<strong>Why Do This?</strong></h3>
Why would someone drive themselves insane this way, you ask? For me, I did this exercise to prime myself for another painting which I had hit a dead end with. I wanted skin glow, gorgeous roses, a classical painterly feel, and translucent material, but it all seemed flat and plastic no matter what I did with it. I needed some time away from the piece to figure out how this was done. </div>
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<a href="http://www.wipnation.com/posts?PostKey=10588"><img alt="image" height="278" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjqesKW0MCX-QuVWZCjPozP-mJ8CuH0WbuqtJic6jxA8CL6McsvRagB8J08CEAWbSzgXhaDV_Sze8EtLJxggD75kKF-aW1jrfuww5cjMgaCZKBgx5Z3Uux2jr_vepcjTJrC9ryuYRTpWMVL/s400/kushiels-dart-cover-wip-03.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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The ‘other’ painting, a reinterpretation of the cover of</div>
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Kushiel’s Dart by Jacqueline Carey.</div>
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That’s when I came upon John William Godward’s <em>Offering to Venus</em>. This painting had everything I wanted in my own - glowing soft skin, roses, sheer cloth, and a classical feel…</div>
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<strong>Read on at the <a href="http://blog.angelicshades.com/2013/06/what-i-learned-from-master-copying.html">full blog post</a>.</strong></div>
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Angela R. Sasserhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12236117446115598736noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3312064451332405702.post-55131335283730324742013-06-13T10:21:00.001-07:002014-04-16T10:55:29.582-07:00Kushiel's Legacy Covers from FranceHere we have more Kushiel's Legacy cover inspiration!<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgu1ruNFN6s3iV8epcHIC0GhuYTJjGcdLY9pxe3GtdfsPOrN0IfLuPXVT0FgaHNQutxcwlgM45SLVMmOj3lQ_qRLCQAmQ2-XNyEN2r5A7kH-eO8LaveusHvRAz2YqZBdY7awmu2Kl2bJMHP/s1600/kushiel-covers.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgu1ruNFN6s3iV8epcHIC0GhuYTJjGcdLY9pxe3GtdfsPOrN0IfLuPXVT0FgaHNQutxcwlgM45SLVMmOj3lQ_qRLCQAmQ2-XNyEN2r5A7kH-eO8LaveusHvRAz2YqZBdY7awmu2Kl2bJMHP/s1600/kushiel-covers.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">For images you can enlarge, see my <a href="http://kushielconcepts.tumblr.com/post/52877734027/here-we-have-more-kushiels-legacy-cover">tumblr post</a>.</td></tr>
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These are some of my favorite covers to the first trilogy of Kushiel books that were sold in France. Some of the best and most fitting illustrations, in this fan's opinion!<br />
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More covers collected at the <a href="http://www.jcbookcovers.drak.li/">Jacqueline Carey cover collection site</a>.</div>
Angela R. Sasserhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12236117446115598736noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3312064451332405702.post-62785270874936063462013-06-06T11:24:00.001-07:002014-04-16T10:55:43.678-07:00Donato Giancola's Kushiel's Dart Cover<div style="background-color: white; box-sizing: border-box; color: #444444; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', HelveticaNeue, Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 19px; margin-bottom: 10px; outline: none 0px;">
Awoke this morning to find that Donato Giancola has shared his version of a cover for a re-release of Kushiel’s Dart over at Muddy Colors! Definitely check out <a href="http://muddycolors.blogspot.ca/2013/06/kushiels-dart-book-cover.html" style="box-sizing: border-box; color: #444444; outline: none 0px;">his blog post</a> to see the beautiful preliminary sketch for this one. It’s quite lovely!</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj5DYBhHy3EWnCpOPimjqFy4Iw4l09Hqif_tz7OkeFriEwkAoLs_fOA4T1nyOAI07zTSr0Byrm58FOcrjPr9-o8qyfHxj8XtSffCo-MID2uB8ove7sB6Lhdu61naZkvBfGhWmYFHxOPsg/s1600/kushielsdart-donato-1200.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj5DYBhHy3EWnCpOPimjqFy4Iw4l09Hqif_tz7OkeFriEwkAoLs_fOA4T1nyOAI07zTSr0Byrm58FOcrjPr9-o8qyfHxj8XtSffCo-MID2uB8ove7sB6Lhdu61naZkvBfGhWmYFHxOPsg/s320/kushielsdart-donato-1200.jpg" height="320" width="209" /></a></div>
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Talk about massive inspiration for me to finish up my redo of the cover!</div>
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EDIT: Now with text treatment, thanks to the <a href="http://vorpalizer.com/post/52376294192/art-directing-donato-giancola">Art Director's blog post</a>!</div>
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Angela R. Sasserhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12236117446115598736noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3312064451332405702.post-39662871951401448492013-04-13T22:38:00.003-07:002013-07-24T10:25:03.994-07:00Sketch Dairy: Kushiel's Dart Cover Part 1In t<a href="http://kushielconcepts.blogspot.com/2013/04/keys-of-inspiration.html">he last post</a>, I shared my thumbnails exploring the idea of a redesign of the cover of <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6bPev3PxTlevIDWZeLmy8nZAOORfv8Oa3Jtzrm4U5C_uLg9H5MEh_s4_UgW4fUErroMkp_5xrfGZQEdnsWnizNjg4TVTsBp7PeSsXIPTbiHK9VEpNsOPsOLoQsn3PIkNp5KKVr21Ty6jV/s320/kushiel01.jpg">Kushiel's Dart as illustrated by John Jude Palencar</a>. I explored many themes in this initial set of thumbnails, including Phèdre's masked guise at the Longest Night masquerade to a more spiritual connection with prayer and doves in the later thumbnails.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhORa3Y75K_FMu21Jcf1imss9APktEllgoBy2Wxp31ORvD8Z_AVNAfbK7N65nrFDfjktD_1KaGpQu4ey-IMqL_z4d_os6D39-EcN7g_a6NxVuE7pvVtiA3uf9dMAJev3EGlrD5oCSFPiCvu/s1600/kushiel-cover-sheet-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="345" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhORa3Y75K_FMu21Jcf1imss9APktEllgoBy2Wxp31ORvD8Z_AVNAfbK7N65nrFDfjktD_1KaGpQu4ey-IMqL_z4d_os6D39-EcN7g_a6NxVuE7pvVtiA3uf9dMAJev3EGlrD5oCSFPiCvu/s400/kushiel-cover-sheet-1.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
It was very difficult to choose between what iconic symbols of this series I wanted to show - the heterochromia of <b>Phèdre's eyes</b> or her symbolic <b>rose marque tattoo</b>. In the end, I personally favored the tattoo, as her eyes just aren't readable from far away and a prospective reader needs to be drawn in a little more immediately. <b>Number 7</b> seems the most aesthetically pleasing, but it feels too confident to me for a coming of age story such as this one. <b>Number 8</b> vogues the most with me for the possibilities of creating a very atmospheric spiritual piece and the presence of an angel statue, which very much ties into the lore of the universe. The rest of the thumbnails feel too generic and posed to be interesting. <br />
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Nothing is quite hitting the mark, so on to the next set of thumbnails!</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWAHbIa5Q_DOKe2CjVr1J7uuApF72rBgEMO7I2xlwqzKaa1ZuMSRPliFD7ZYcz48e_FCrlBjvvObiTF0xIe6PzIhSXLffR4UiS5lULFU1raJ3spZOxcSqvgZFOf_54TrP5ifmpJ2lE9S2J/s1600/kushiels-dart-thumbs2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="352" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWAHbIa5Q_DOKe2CjVr1J7uuApF72rBgEMO7I2xlwqzKaa1ZuMSRPliFD7ZYcz48e_FCrlBjvvObiTF0xIe6PzIhSXLffR4UiS5lULFU1raJ3spZOxcSqvgZFOf_54TrP5ifmpJ2lE9S2J/s400/kushiels-dart-thumbs2.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<b>Number 1</b> still feels too boring and generic while <b>number 3</b> shows the very important object of Melisande's diamond. However, new readers won't understand the significance of this diamond, which still leaves me with a rather boring image. <b>Number 4</b> is my second favorite in this batch again for the possibilities of a twilight garden with Phèdre in somber prayer before an angel statue.<br />
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<b>Number 2</b> was my '<a href="http://blog.angelicshades.com/2012/05/eureka-moment-composition.html">eureka moment</a>' and my favorite out of this batch. Something about the idea of Phèdre framed by a bronze panel engraved with angelic wings and guarded by the bronze masked priests of Kushiel resonates visually. Is Phèdre a prisoner enchained or is she chained to the post willingly? Readers who know the story can appreciate the moment that inspired this scene (the scourging at the temple of Kushiel), while those who don't know it yet will (hopefully) start asking questions about her predicament, which is exactly the kind of interest I want in a cover! <br />
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<a name='more'></a>My only qualm is that it may be too violent or suggestive for a cover that's to be displayed in the fantasy section of a bookstore. It's all going to depend on how gorey and/or suggestive I get with possible welts left by scourging (if any) and the figure's posing.<br />
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<b>EDIT:</b> After brainstorming more, I realized that even though I like <b>number 2</b>, it's just a little too violent and suggestive to work for a mainstream bookstore's cover. More exploration was needed!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhSEuw9QwpdZyyC1yIiwlHTloEeGNsniUw6ulrJZ8Uc438nYEL3lmpiMfT3VXb9hbhzKzVuvRplaoUETJ1j9MbJAf3wkLI3G5c0rZCbW1MEHpfXSCvTwccjkz-JTkal6euph9nX0sjNXc6v/s1600/kushiels-dart-thumbs2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="352" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhSEuw9QwpdZyyC1yIiwlHTloEeGNsniUw6ulrJZ8Uc438nYEL3lmpiMfT3VXb9hbhzKzVuvRplaoUETJ1j9MbJAf3wkLI3G5c0rZCbW1MEHpfXSCvTwccjkz-JTkal6euph9nX0sjNXc6v/s400/kushiels-dart-thumbs2.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
I continued to explore the theme of prayer to Kushiel and angelic engravings as a decorative background element. The previous thumbnails were becoming too static and flattened by the use of verticals, so I brought back a bit more dynamism by tilting the picture plane and experimenting with aerial camera angles. <b>Number 9 </b>is a more graphical symbolic theme. <b>Number 8</b> is my favorite of this batch because it is clearly readable from afar and possesses plenty of potential for me to push the spiritual atmosphere.<br />
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<b>EDIT 2:</b> After much deliberation, I've boiled down the finalists to the following!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjb6mFnblGBp4xZf42xdPVU89k4d63MpHpqhgw_VYXzUmLawVWfe9pE2A2t1gMtxgQs41B_DGmNCmQ5X3XIh906TQiL1YimbAyOG2NOayCqIVkv_-GEGnhSOsIeeMUghCLBFXK4vFcq2VHs/s1600/kushiel-value-comps.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjb6mFnblGBp4xZf42xdPVU89k4d63MpHpqhgw_VYXzUmLawVWfe9pE2A2t1gMtxgQs41B_DGmNCmQ5X3XIh906TQiL1YimbAyOG2NOayCqIVkv_-GEGnhSOsIeeMUghCLBFXK4vFcq2VHs/s400/kushiel-value-comps.jpg" width="340" /></a></div>
The top one really has a really wonderful sense of serenity and I like the dynamic camera angle, but it's just not giving me enough of the character to work with. Neither do I get a sense that it can be easily plucked from the shelves filled with other images the way that I feel the middle one can. The middle thumbnail captures the same sense of serenity, that moment of spiritual awakening I'm aiming for, and even allows me to show more of Kushiel in the carving on the wall. The emptiness of the temple scene behind her also allows for a nice wide area for text treatment.<br />
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At last, we have the bottom thumbnail, which is still quite cool! The visual motifs of Kushiel's bronze mask and wings along with <span class="st">Phèdre's heterochromia lend themselves really well to a symbolic graphical cover. It's too simple, for my tastes, and this is a point where I make a personal decision as an artist to go with the more character-centric cover because that's the kind of stylistic and subject choice I'd like to be known for.</span><br />
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<span class="st"><b>The Winner:</b> The middle thumbnail for its <b>clarity</b> and <b>character centric composition</b> and for the story it tells <b>at a glance</b>. Next up, crafting the character and the painting.</span><br />
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<span class="st"><a href="http://kushielconcepts.blogspot.com/2013/06/sketch-dairy-kushiels-dart-cover-part-2.html">On to Part 2</a><br /><a href="http://kushielconcepts.blogspot.com/2013/07/sketch-diary-kushiels-dart-cover-part-3.html">On to Part 3</a></span></h3>
Angela R. Sasserhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12236117446115598736noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3312064451332405702.post-85267752069198547042013-04-06T13:15:00.000-07:002013-04-06T13:15:03.604-07:00Keys of InspirationYears ago during my days as an over-caffeinated college student, a friend introduced me to a then unknown novel called <em>Kushiel's Dart</em> by <a href="http://jacquelinecarey.com/">Jacqueline Carey</a>. I didn't know what to expect, at first, but once the book got its thorns in me, I could not escape. Fallen angels, beautiful tattooed women, elegant sensuality, a rich medieval world? These keys of inspiration fit the lock to my muse like no other! I yearned to draw the things my mind's eye saw in this glorious book, but at the time I just did not have the skills to fit my vision, being the budding artist I was back then.<br />
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It is only now, years later, that I feel I even remotely have the competence as an illustrator to embark on this grand journey that I have longed to undertake. What is that journey? <strong>To create art inspired by the Kushiel's Legacy universe so that I can pay tribute to this wonderful series and produce the kind of art I love.</strong> It was when I sat awake one night, an over-caffeinated adult now four years out of grad school wondering what I could draw for my fledgling illustration portfolio when I began to feel the thorns of Kushiel's Legacy in me again. Did they ever really leave, I wonder?<br />
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Professionally, I want to fill my portfolio with the kind of art and subject matter I am passionate about because it is important to me that my career follows my passions as an artist. This journey of visual development is to be but the first step in what could be many projects, with <em>Kushiel's Legacy</em> as my initiation and catalyst. In the future, I might turn my mind's eye on the <em>The Wheel of Time</em>, <em>A Song of Ice and Fire</em>, etc. Who knows? The possibilities are endless in a world where words meet visuals!<br />
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Expect all kinds of art in this journal, from my own renditions of the series' book covers to concept art of the characters to interior illustrations. All things are possible where my multi-interested muse is involved!<br />
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To kick things off with a bang, enjoy this feast of thumbnails exploring various compositions for a wrap-around cover for <em>Kushiel's Dart</em>! I have my favorites, of course, but I want to hear what you think! Share in comments.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhORa3Y75K_FMu21Jcf1imss9APktEllgoBy2Wxp31ORvD8Z_AVNAfbK7N65nrFDfjktD_1KaGpQu4ey-IMqL_z4d_os6D39-EcN7g_a6NxVuE7pvVtiA3uf9dMAJev3EGlrD5oCSFPiCvu/s1600/kushiel-cover-sheet-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="346" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhORa3Y75K_FMu21Jcf1imss9APktEllgoBy2Wxp31ORvD8Z_AVNAfbK7N65nrFDfjktD_1KaGpQu4ey-IMqL_z4d_os6D39-EcN7g_a6NxVuE7pvVtiA3uf9dMAJev3EGlrD5oCSFPiCvu/s400/kushiel-cover-sheet-1.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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You might remember the expertly rendered book cover for <em>Kushiel's Dart</em> by <a href="http://www.johnjudepalencar.com/">John Jude Palencar</a>. If not, here's a reminder:<br />
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Join me next time for a look at the creative process for this cover's redesign!</div>
Angela R. Sasserhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12236117446115598736noreply@blogger.com0