Illustration Friday "Layer"

Okay, so I know this is kind of a stretch but when my cat settles into this position she reminds me of a chicken who is also a "layer." I dunno, maybe she looks more loaf-like, but I've been sketching her and was in the mood to do some fur. She's sort of a weird mix of brindle, calico and tabby. Actually, to be quiet honest, this kitty is probably more of a combo representation of all three of our kitties. I'm gonna have to draw the dog next or he's going to get a complex.

Illustration Friday "Sweater"

This week's topic for Illustration Friday was "sweater." Since I'm working on a picture book featuring a pregnant weasel I decided I had to dress her up in a sweater of sorts. I can't decide whether to put clothes on her or not. It's a conundrum. So then I had fun putting her in a sun hat and red Crocs. Finally, in keeping with the penguin theme of last week I decked this guy out in a rather nautical pullover.

More penguins

A few more quick sketches from my photos. These are the South African penguins. I had to stop myself from putting on their bow ties, but stay tuned.

Illustration Friday "Reverse"

I visited New Orleans this past week and it was cold and rained the entire time. However, that made me venture off to the Audubon Aquarium where I discovered the delightful penguin exhibit. They have 28 South African Black Footed penguins and 3 Rockhopper penguins. I took tons of photos and talked to the wonderful Tom Dyer who is their penguin keeper. They are amazing creatures. Now this penguin that I sketched for IF is a big daddy penguin, the Emperor, like what starred in March of the Penguins. I've been down with the flu so stuck on the couch with not a lot of energy to go through the photos I shot but I couldn't get the penguins out of my mind. I decided that this penguin is trying to go in "reverse." Or it may be that his flippers reminded me of my backstroke, or it could be the cough meds. Whatever. I'm much better today and doing this little sketch made me feel a lot more chipper. Plus, I now have idea #2 for a picture book! Also, I keep forgetting to use better paper, this thin sketchbook buckles.