How I create…
Keep the viewer guessing
I avoid being too safe or consistent with my concepts, adding odd elements like the plane to create a sense of the unexpected. The girl’s almost telekinetic connection to the giant beetle suggests intriguing stories, making the image more than just a background or concept. off at the distant waterfall, adds authenticity to the story and completes the moment.
BUILD A VISUAL STORY Place characters
A powerful visual trick is to include actors in your scene. Even in background or environment concept art, characters help the audience to empathise, and mirror their emotions and gaze. Placing kids on the plane, climbing and looking
Create a believable setting
When designing the fallen WWII propeller plane, I researched to find the right type of plane for my composition and considered how it might have crashed years ago. I focused on where it would be torn, rusted and covered in overgrowth, ensuring the drawing was accurate to make the scene feel grounded and believable.
Hidden mysteries
Successful environment concepts often show depth while maintaining mystery. It’s important not to define every detail, leaving room for the audience’s imagination. The waterfalls and minimalistic sky suggest vastness beyond the main subjects.
Maintaining focus
To keep the attention on the main elements, I reduce contrast at the edges of the painting, preventing the viewer’s eye from drifting away. The central figures and crashed plane are the focal points, and I guide the audience’s gaze in a circular motion towards them, which keeps the composition engaging.
Sell and suggest minor details
Painting every detail meticulously can result in stiffness. Instead, I’ll focu
