Twist and Reverse

I heard about the Imaginism Workshop around the time that I completed my film. Then, I was back to working at the animation studios while maintaining a steady drawing regimen, and I was hungry for my next challenge. It's important, as an artist, to always work in a state of mild discomfort. It was time to shake things up a bit.

For several months, Senior Imaginism Artist Thierry Lafontaine had graciously been accepting students into his home for 30 days of intense learning. The class was designed to compliment every skill level, from artists breaking out on DeviantArt to seasoned comic professionals. Thierry's method of teaching was deeply personal, pulled from years of mentoring and nurturing many artists, young and not-so-young. With students flying to Toronto from as far away as Europe, India and Brazil, I felt a certain duty to take advantage of the brilliant opportunity taking place in my own backyard.

Imaginism Studios is unique in that it is completely artist-driven, where owners Bobby and Kei only partner with clients whose creative vision aligns with theirs. Endlessly inspired, Imaginism maintains a high standard of excellence by selecting work that excites them artistically, where every job is a passion project. Now, those are the kind of people you'd want to learn from!

My Workshop Crew, from left to right, Me, Alice, Andros and Emanuele

Four strangers from around the world moved into their Teacher's house, united by a desire to draw. And boy, did we ever! Here's a bit of what we got up to:



One of the first things we did was paint a white box, the goal being to make it look real. Deceptively difficult.

We made many tonal studies of famous Bouguereau paintings, an exercise in value and contrast.

Then, we applied those lessons to some of our own designs.

We then were tasked with designing a character for a fictitious children's show, a resident of Candy island that would appeal to the young folk.

 

Before tackling a complex painting, we were taught the value of texture studies. These 30 minute investments payed off big time when painting the final character.

Painted in a mere 30 minutes! I even surprised myself.



"Candy Swirl Girl"



Then, we created characters for a mystical forest tribe that incorporated wooden toy and fruit or vegetable elements. I chose to give mine a giant onion head.



Here's my creation, the "Onion Princess".



By the last week, it was time to repaint my Onion girl in the real world. Using actual paint!

GOSH!

For anyone considering the Imaginism Workshop, I can't recommend it highly enough. What a brilliant way to learn! Come on guys, it's time to get Chiu-tense! I promise you'll love it!

Imaginism Studios Workshop
30 days, Year-Round
Toronto