Red Skull
Batwoman
[NOTE: the stock ears on the cowl have yet to be removed]
Divio Juckal
28 February 2011
Graphic updates to-date. . .
Red Skull
Batwoman
[NOTE: the stock ears on the cowl have yet to be removed]
Divio Juckal
27 February 2011
Red Skull (Bust)--The Project & Prepwork Update
Last things first. . .
Progress continues to be made on the focal point of this conversion. The "structural" skull is now about 70-80% complete, and the dental work has begun in earnest. A shirt collar has been added, and the head-cum-skull fitted.
Which brings us to the nature of the Project. At its most basic, the converting or replacement of the head to/with a skull: obviously, I have elected the former option. That is really all that needs to be done to effect a visually and immediately recognizable depiction of the Red Skull. BUT. . . the devil is in the details! And here is where most of the effort will be expended.
Finally, while the bust provides a cigarette, I intend to augment it with a cigarette holder--and make any aesthetic changes to the hand that I deem necessary.
Back to the bench!
FOLLOW-UP . . . The second tunic button has been carefully removed (to be reattached later), and the area refinished as a prelude to the addition of the EK II ribbon.
FOLLOW-UP (2) . . . The EK II ribbon has been added (MS). The tunic button has been cleaned-up, finished, and reattached.
Progress continues to be made on the focal point of this conversion. The "structural" skull is now about 70-80% complete, and the dental work has begun in earnest. A shirt collar has been added, and the head-cum-skull fitted.
Which brings us to the nature of the Project. At its most basic, the converting or replacement of the head to/with a skull: obviously, I have elected the former option. That is really all that needs to be done to effect a visually and immediately recognizable depiction of the Red Skull. BUT. . . the devil is in the details! And here is where most of the effort will be expended.
- Rework the collar insignia
- Add the EK II ribbon
- Add the RK
Finally, while the bust provides a cigarette, I intend to augment it with a cigarette holder--and make any aesthetic changes to the hand that I deem necessary.
Back to the bench!
FOLLOW-UP . . . The second tunic button has been carefully removed (to be reattached later), and the area refinished as a prelude to the addition of the EK II ribbon.
FOLLOW-UP (2) . . . The EK II ribbon has been added (MS). The tunic button has been cleaned-up, finished, and reattached.
26 February 2011
Batwoman
One of my acquisitions at this year's Show was one of the two Batgirls from the same series as the "Vampire Bat" and Harley Quinn.
(This is the pair beautifully painted by Jim Capone. . . our subject is on the right)
As with all of the busts that I either have or have seen in this series, this one-piece casting is a solid A/A+. The only reason it is not a resounding A+ is because of a single stray air bubble on the chin.
I am not a huge Batgirl fan--though I am warming-up to the later incarnations. Having said that, there was something about this bust that was quite compelling. So I decided that I would "per- sonalize" it and effect the relatively minor mods that would transform her into Batwoman.
To date, I have reduced the height of the pedestal by half, and I have roughed-in the "horned" mask à la Huntress. This remains a separate item and will not be permanently attached until the bust is ready for priming--if then. . .
Until next time. . .
"Firedrake" - Prepwork: Update
Just by way of update, the hood is just about ready for final finishing; while the boots continue to evolve and be refined. . .
As soon as I get him mounted on his workbase, I will post some images.
As soon as I get him mounted on his workbase, I will post some images.
Ragin' Cajun - Graphic (Re)introduction
We consigned M. LeBeau to the safety of the display cabinet about 6 1/2 weeks ago. While paring-down the project list is always a decision fraught with doubt and misgivings, it was definitely the right call IF I was to get the most out of the [considerable] time invested in salvaging this piece.
Since it has been such a long time, a graphic jog to the ol' grey matter. This is the kit as intended by KM and Marvel:
And this is what you will see unfold before you:
You may review the steps taken to arrive at the above in this thread.
Since it has been such a long time, a graphic jog to the ol' grey matter. This is the kit as intended by KM and Marvel:
And this is what you will see unfold before you:
You may review the steps taken to arrive at the above in this thread.
25 February 2011
POLL--Grading our blog!--CLOSED
Out first poll is now closed. I would like to thank the 8 respondents who took the time to participate, and, as always, to Lloyd for his comments.
So how did we--the blog and I--do? Well, 2 "Great"s, 5 "Not bad"s, and 1 "Could be much better". As there was but one comment, I can only guess at what I might do to improve the experience.
As I mentioned in the presentation of the poll, I am aware that the site is light on images. While I will strive to improve my performance on this front, I will be completely candid with you and tell you that any improvement will be relative. My disposable time is extremely limited, and if I have to choose between photography and photo-editing, and modelling or painting, the photography will lose every time!
Secondly, I am not particularly graphics driven. I have touched upon this on numerous occasions in writing and verbally with those of you who know me well. I respect your counter-arguments, and they are not without merit; however, my experience as the host of a forum for over a decade, and now this blog, is that images will not yield a greater level of participation. Images in this context are but a visual aid, not a means to an end. I have my own theory on how forums and blogs should work, and I have yet to receive a post or a comment that ties in the images of the completed piece, which I always provide, with the descriptive text that preceded it. . . I know many will disagree with me, and that is your privilege.
So. . . again, my thanks for your participation. Maybe we'll do this again in a year's time and see if we can elicit a greater response--and improve the scores some!
Augie
So how did we--the blog and I--do? Well, 2 "Great"s, 5 "Not bad"s, and 1 "Could be much better". As there was but one comment, I can only guess at what I might do to improve the experience.
As I mentioned in the presentation of the poll, I am aware that the site is light on images. While I will strive to improve my performance on this front, I will be completely candid with you and tell you that any improvement will be relative. My disposable time is extremely limited, and if I have to choose between photography and photo-editing, and modelling or painting, the photography will lose every time!
Secondly, I am not particularly graphics driven. I have touched upon this on numerous occasions in writing and verbally with those of you who know me well. I respect your counter-arguments, and they are not without merit; however, my experience as the host of a forum for over a decade, and now this blog, is that images will not yield a greater level of participation. Images in this context are but a visual aid, not a means to an end. I have my own theory on how forums and blogs should work, and I have yet to receive a post or a comment that ties in the images of the completed piece, which I always provide, with the descriptive text that preceded it. . . I know many will disagree with me, and that is your privilege.
So. . . again, my thanks for your participation. Maybe we'll do this again in a year's time and see if we can elicit a greater response--and improve the scores some!
Augie
24 February 2011
Red Skull (Bust)--Prepwork: Phase I
I have obviously skipped a posting, and I will hopefully be able to outline the project in the days ahead.
With that editorial comment out of the way, quite a bit of progress has been made this evening:
With that editorial comment out of the way, quite a bit of progress has been made this evening:
- The assembled torso/pedestal has been tapped and pegged, and mounted on its work base.
- Clean-up of the puttied/filled areas has begun.
- The calvarium has been added with MS.
- The salient facial features have been removed, the overall volume selectively reduced, and the skull roughed-in, again with MS. VERY pleased to this point!
Divio Juckal--Prepwork concluded
Save for cleaning up what few seam lines remain, and double-checking that I didn't overlook anything (especially through the heavy mantle of fur), domnului Juckal is ready for priming!
The shirt (note: as best as I can determine, this is not a jacket!) has been fitted--though not attached! Same for the hands. The bowler has been removed from the sprue and finished.
The only item remaining to be addressed pre-priming is the groundwork, and there is yet much to be done on this front before I can even begin to consider kneading putty.
Short and VERY sweet. . . as it should be!
The shirt (note: as best as I can determine, this is not a jacket!) has been fitted--though not attached! Same for the hands. The bowler has been removed from the sprue and finished.
The only item remaining to be addressed pre-priming is the groundwork, and there is yet much to be done on this front before I can even begin to consider kneading putty.
Short and VERY sweet. . . as it should be!
23 February 2011
Red Skull (Bust)--Introduction & Kit Review
With the full figure behind me, it is time to follow-up with the bust/s. . .
Yes, you read right, busts. I always intended to do a companion bust to the full figure, and to this end I acquired Young Miniatures' 1/10th scale SS Totenkopf Officer (YM1811--OOB presentation can be found here) in the Fall. But. . . I recently acquired Jaguar Models' 1/12th scale SS-Ober- sturmführer (Oberleutnant/First Lt.) (GD-12005) by Mike Good (sculpted in 1998!), and this will be the basis of my first conversion project.
The bust is cast in 5 pieces + an elegantly designed pedestal that practically seamlessly attaches to the back of the torso. The all-critical head is cast separately, as is the distressed peaked cap. The remaining pieces of the kit are the right forearm/hand and cigarette. Casting quality is VG+. There are concentrations of air bubbles along some of the edges and proximal ends of the castings, but nothing out of the ordinary--or to fret over: these are now filled and under the lamp.
Whereas the Young bust will be hatted, this rendition will be bare-headed. I will further elaborate on the project in the next posting in the thread.
Yes, you read right, busts. I always intended to do a companion bust to the full figure, and to this end I acquired Young Miniatures' 1/10th scale SS Totenkopf Officer (YM1811--OOB presentation can be found here) in the Fall. But. . . I recently acquired Jaguar Models' 1/12th scale SS-Ober- sturmführer (Oberleutnant/First Lt.) (GD-12005) by Mike Good (sculpted in 1998!), and this will be the basis of my first conversion project.
The bust is cast in 5 pieces + an elegantly designed pedestal that practically seamlessly attaches to the back of the torso. The all-critical head is cast separately, as is the distressed peaked cap. The remaining pieces of the kit are the right forearm/hand and cigarette. Casting quality is VG+. There are concentrations of air bubbles along some of the edges and proximal ends of the castings, but nothing out of the ordinary--or to fret over: these are now filled and under the lamp.
Whereas the Young bust will be hatted, this rendition will be bare-headed. I will further elaborate on the project in the next posting in the thread.
21 February 2011
Stellio "Firedrake" Salamandra
As the second day of the Show was winding up, the crowds in the Vendor Hall had thinned out enough so as to afford me some leisurely browsing through The Red Lancers' tables. I had already picked-up EVD's "Dragon Raider" bust (CB31 - based on Chris Achilleos' Celtic Queen), and then I stumbled upon the subject of this review.
I had first come across this unique offering on the pages of pF. Milit Model is a relatively new Italian company, apparently associated with EMI, that to date has been concentrating on [large] 54mm Italian subjects of the Great War.
Their first release (in 2009) was an Italian flammiere. Kudos to them for releasing such an esoteric--and interesting!!!--subject! Flamethrowers are hardly common in the marketplace, and I would venture to wager that this will be the first and last rendition of an Italian one in the First World War.
Which is a shame. While the subject matter is undeniably unique, the sculpting and casting leave much to be desired: it deserves better. The kit is a comprised of 13 pieces: one piece body, two arms, and a 4-pc. flamethrower--and six(!) pieces dedicated to the groundwork/ base. The sculpting is, shall we say, "unrefined" and "clunky", lacking in definition and finishing.
The casting? Anyone who has had any experience with EMI over the years would not be surprised. It is distorted; and with six pieces dedicated to the groundwork, it would not have been too much to ask that the flame-resistant hood (i.e., the head) be cast as a separate piece: this is severely skewed, as would be expected from the position of the head given the volume of the hood.
So, as an addition to the historical collection, it would not be a "good fit" with the current generation of historical miniatures. In fact, this piece would not look out of place with a miniature produced in the 70's or 80's! BUT. . . as a a subject from an alternate reality, this has virtually unlimited potential!
Allow me to introduce to you: Stellio "Firedrake" Salamandra. I am still working on the background story, but he will be a Victorian freelance "exterminator". . .
To date, I have begun reworking the hood, and have roughed-over the spindly (not quite SAS, but close!), puttee-wrapped lower legs into heavy postilion-style boots. I know I will add protective fire-resistant gauntlet/s; but beyond that, the final concept and design are still very much a work-in-progress. . .
Stay tuned!
I had first come across this unique offering on the pages of pF. Milit Model is a relatively new Italian company, apparently associated with EMI, that to date has been concentrating on [large] 54mm Italian subjects of the Great War.
Their first release (in 2009) was an Italian flammiere. Kudos to them for releasing such an esoteric--and interesting!!!--subject! Flamethrowers are hardly common in the marketplace, and I would venture to wager that this will be the first and last rendition of an Italian one in the First World War.
Which is a shame. While the subject matter is undeniably unique, the sculpting and casting leave much to be desired: it deserves better. The kit is a comprised of 13 pieces: one piece body, two arms, and a 4-pc. flamethrower--and six(!) pieces dedicated to the groundwork/ base. The sculpting is, shall we say, "unrefined" and "clunky", lacking in definition and finishing.
The casting? Anyone who has had any experience with EMI over the years would not be surprised. It is distorted; and with six pieces dedicated to the groundwork, it would not have been too much to ask that the flame-resistant hood (i.e., the head) be cast as a separate piece: this is severely skewed, as would be expected from the position of the head given the volume of the hood.
So, as an addition to the historical collection, it would not be a "good fit" with the current generation of historical miniatures. In fact, this piece would not look out of place with a miniature produced in the 70's or 80's! BUT. . . as a a subject from an alternate reality, this has virtually unlimited potential!
Allow me to introduce to you: Stellio "Firedrake" Salamandra. I am still working on the background story, but he will be a Victorian freelance "exterminator". . .
To date, I have begun reworking the hood, and have roughed-over the spindly (not quite SAS, but close!), puttee-wrapped lower legs into heavy postilion-style boots. I know I will add protective fire-resistant gauntlet/s; but beyond that, the final concept and design are still very much a work-in-progress. . .
Stay tuned!
20 February 2011
Divio "Mad Dog" Juckal, Vârcolac of The Wheel
Divio "Mad Dog" Juckal is a Romano/Sinto werewolf in the Smog 1888 alternate reality. For those who would like to read about the back- ground story, you may do so here (Home>Smog>The Wheel). And the "boxart" may be seen here.
A dear friend and patron presented me with this figure at the Show. And I am delighted that he did: this is a beauty of a kit!! Cast in 8 pcs. + cobblestone plinth in a dark grey polyvinyl resin, I received an exquisite casting with but 3 airholes in non-critical areas. Fit is very good--some minor mold wear precluded a seamless fit; but nothing major. In fact, all corrective filling has already been taken care of, and the torso has been permanently attached to the legs.
More to follow. . . !
FOLLOW-UP . . . The head and tail have been permanently attached, and the figure pegged and mounted on its workbase. All that remains to be done before priming is minor seam clean-up and feathering the fur along the join seams.
FOLLOW-UP (2) - 22.02.11 . . . The furred join seams have been filled and textured. Once I finish seam clean-up and some minor re-detailing, this one will be ready for priming. Maybe by the weekend?
A dear friend and patron presented me with this figure at the Show. And I am delighted that he did: this is a beauty of a kit!! Cast in 8 pcs. + cobblestone plinth in a dark grey polyvinyl resin, I received an exquisite casting with but 3 airholes in non-critical areas. Fit is very good--some minor mold wear precluded a seamless fit; but nothing major. In fact, all corrective filling has already been taken care of, and the torso has been permanently attached to the legs.
More to follow. . . !
FOLLOW-UP . . . The head and tail have been permanently attached, and the figure pegged and mounted on its workbase. All that remains to be done before priming is minor seam clean-up and feathering the fur along the join seams.
FOLLOW-UP (2) - 22.02.11 . . . The furred join seams have been filled and textured. Once I finish seam clean-up and some minor re-detailing, this one will be ready for priming. Maybe by the weekend?
Looking ahead in 2011. . . revision
The 2011 Atlanta Show is now behind me. I hope everyone had/has an uneventful and safe trip home.
All in all, an overwhelmingly successful event, and the Fantasy category infused a much-needed dose of "fresh air"--this coming from hard-core "historicists", most of whom were approaching this as their last Atlanta Show unless "something" was done. Mission accomplished.
With the annual rendezvous behind me, I am compelled to revise the originally published tentative slate for 2011. Here goes. . .
1) Gambit (Knight Models 75mm) -- already transferred to the bench!
2) Red Skull (Jaguar Models' 1/12th scale conversion)
3) Harley Quinn (1/9th scale)
4) Batwoman (1/9th scale conversion)
5) Jeremiah Crow (Smart Max 'Smog 1888')
6) Stellio "Firedrake" Salamandra [Steampunk (SP) flamethrower] (Milit Models 54mm conversion)
7) Divio "Mad Dog" Juckal [SP vârcolac] (Smart Max 'Smog 1888')
Red Skull, Harley, and Batwoman are busts.
As always, subject--and quite likely!--to change.
And as always, I hope you will find something of interest in the above--I look forward to your comments and observations.
Back to the bench!!
A~
All in all, an overwhelmingly successful event, and the Fantasy category infused a much-needed dose of "fresh air"--this coming from hard-core "historicists", most of whom were approaching this as their last Atlanta Show unless "something" was done. Mission accomplished.
With the annual rendezvous behind me, I am compelled to revise the originally published tentative slate for 2011. Here goes. . .
1) Gambit (Knight Models 75mm) -- already transferred to the bench!
2) Red Skull (Jaguar Models' 1/12th scale conversion)
3) Harley Quinn (1/9th scale)
4) Batwoman (1/9th scale conversion)
5) Jeremiah Crow (Smart Max 'Smog 1888')
6) Stellio "Firedrake" Salamandra [Steampunk (SP) flamethrower] (Milit Models 54mm conversion)
7) Divio "Mad Dog" Juckal [SP vârcolac] (Smart Max 'Smog 1888')
Red Skull, Harley, and Batwoman are busts.
As always, subject--and quite likely!--to change.
And as always, I hope you will find something of interest in the above--I look forward to your comments and observations.
Back to the bench!!
A~
19 February 2011
Harley's pedestal adjustment
Actually a few days after the fact--this cutting session was the last thing I did before showering to get ready to leave for the Show.
The pedestal was reduced by about 11/16th in. This results in what I consider an ideal height. I also cut it at an angle, with the bust now having an ~30° lean towards the left of the viewer, with her face nearly perpendicular to the table.
I might tweak the angle of lean in either direction a smidge, but essentially the bust is now ready for clean-up and assembly.
More to follow. . .
The pedestal was reduced by about 11/16th in. This results in what I consider an ideal height. I also cut it at an angle, with the bust now having an ~30° lean towards the left of the viewer, with her face nearly perpendicular to the table.
I might tweak the angle of lean in either direction a smidge, but essentially the bust is now ready for clean-up and assembly.
More to follow. . .
34th Annual AMFS--Second Day
As a follow-up to yesterday. . .
LOCATION: Plentiful, well laid-out parking: no long walks to the entrances. I don't know if there was a greater turnout for a Saturday this year--or the magnitude of any other event at the hotel; but by 1030 there was nary a parking space to be found! It appeared to remain that way throughout the day, so that might have had an impact on the overall attendance. Regrettably, not much that can be done.
HALLS: Lighting in the Exhibit Hall was a C/B depending on your location. Not bad, but I've seen better-including the last venue. I couldn't help but get the feeling that the lights could have been "amped-up" some (i.e., dimmer switches?). We'll see what it's like tomorrow. . . I can't say it was brighter, but the eyes had adjusted by today. While still no better than the old location, it was not appreciably worse.
ACCOMMODATIONS: Excellent. Went to a friend's room, and it was very nice! Nothing extraordinary, but certainly above average.
FOOD: Over the weekend, I had heard the the food was good, but that the service left something to be desired. So as not to lose our parking space, we decided to try the in-house facility. Well, the food was EXCELLENT; and the service more than acceptable. A little pricey, as one might expect from a hotel restaurant, but nothing that would break the bank.
OVERALL: 4-4.5/5. Every new location is going to have a "break-in" period. This one is no different. Having said that, the staff was very professional and courteous; and the amenities were plentiful and conveniently accessible. I think AMFS made a great selection, and I hope things continue to evolve to the satisfaction of both parties. I stand by my original appraisal.
PS--There were six tables dedicated to Fantasy. That amounts to just short of one whole side of a row. By the time I left this evening (~2000), Fantasy entries had already spilled into the Saturday overflow tables. . . and some of the BIG guns had not yet arrived! By the time registration closed, Fantasy had occupied SEVEN full tables! It was impressive!!! Virtually all the genres were represented. Overall impression of the Fantasy Category? ALL good+ or better. Based on the feedback I received--and this was NOT targeted polling--it is a most welcome addition and a resounding success! Expectations are high for next year!
LOCATION: Plentiful, well laid-out parking: no long walks to the entrances. I don't know if there was a greater turnout for a Saturday this year--or the magnitude of any other event at the hotel; but by 1030 there was nary a parking space to be found! It appeared to remain that way throughout the day, so that might have had an impact on the overall attendance. Regrettably, not much that can be done.
HALLS: Lighting in the Exhibit Hall was a C/B depending on your location. Not bad, but I've seen better-including the last venue. I couldn't help but get the feeling that the lights could have been "amped-up" some (i.e., dimmer switches?). We'll see what it's like tomorrow. . . I can't say it was brighter, but the eyes had adjusted by today. While still no better than the old location, it was not appreciably worse.
ACCOMMODATIONS: Excellent. Went to a friend's room, and it was very nice! Nothing extraordinary, but certainly above average.
FOOD: Over the weekend, I had heard the the food was good, but that the service left something to be desired. So as not to lose our parking space, we decided to try the in-house facility. Well, the food was EXCELLENT; and the service more than acceptable. A little pricey, as one might expect from a hotel restaurant, but nothing that would break the bank.
OVERALL: 4-4.5/5. Every new location is going to have a "break-in" period. This one is no different. Having said that, the staff was very professional and courteous; and the amenities were plentiful and conveniently accessible. I think AMFS made a great selection, and I hope things continue to evolve to the satisfaction of both parties. I stand by my original appraisal.
PS--There were six tables dedicated to Fantasy. That amounts to just short of one whole side of a row. By the time I left this evening (~2000), Fantasy entries had already spilled into the Saturday overflow tables. . . and some of the BIG guns had not yet arrived! By the time registration closed, Fantasy had occupied SEVEN full tables! It was impressive!!! Virtually all the genres were represented. Overall impression of the Fantasy Category? ALL good+ or better. Based on the feedback I received--and this was NOT targeted polling--it is a most welcome addition and a resounding success! Expectations are high for next year!
18 February 2011
34th Annual AMFS--First Impressions
LOCATION: EXCELLENT! Easy access, right off of I-85. Beautiful appointments. Plentiful, well laid-out parking: no long walks to the entrances.
HALLS: Awesome! Spacious; very professional atmosphere. Amenities (water, coffee) throughout. Limited access points = higher degree of security.
Lighting in the Exhibit Hall was a C/B depending on your location. Not bad, but I've seen better-including the last venue. I couldn't help but get the feeling that the lights could have been "amped-up" some (i.e., dimmer switches?). We'll see what it's like tomorrow. . .
OVERALL: 4-4.5/5. Every new location is going to have a "break-in" period. This one is no different. Having said that, the staff was very professional and courteous; and the amenities were plentiful and conveniently accessible. I think AMFS made a great selection, and I hope things continue to evolve to the satisfaction of both parties.
PS--There were six tables dedicated to Fantasy. That amounts to just short of one whole side of a row. By the time I left this evening (~2000), Fantasy entries had already spilled into the Saturday overflow tables. . . and some of the BIG guns had not yet arrived!
Remember, Registration is open until Noon tomorrow!
HALLS: Awesome! Spacious; very professional atmosphere. Amenities (water, coffee) throughout. Limited access points = higher degree of security.
Lighting in the Exhibit Hall was a C/B depending on your location. Not bad, but I've seen better-including the last venue. I couldn't help but get the feeling that the lights could have been "amped-up" some (i.e., dimmer switches?). We'll see what it's like tomorrow. . .
OVERALL: 4-4.5/5. Every new location is going to have a "break-in" period. This one is no different. Having said that, the staff was very professional and courteous; and the amenities were plentiful and conveniently accessible. I think AMFS made a great selection, and I hope things continue to evolve to the satisfaction of both parties.
PS--There were six tables dedicated to Fantasy. That amounts to just short of one whole side of a row. By the time I left this evening (~2000), Fantasy entries had already spilled into the Saturday overflow tables. . . and some of the BIG guns had not yet arrived!
Remember, Registration is open until Noon tomorrow!
17 February 2011
The Vampire Bat
Used a flash on this series of shots (no cracks about vampires aren't supposed to cast shadows!). . .
Epilogue
Save for some minor weathering to be done with pastels, the pre- Show mad. . .uh. . . marathon for 2011 is now officially "in the books". After a brief break, and maybe a nap, I will begin setting up the photo-shoot, so that by tonight there should be images to go with the [endless?] text. . .
And with that, let me go into the breach one more time and put this baby to bed. But not before wishing everyone making the trek to Atlanta--beautiful weather by the way, forecast is for clear skies, with highs in the low 70's tomorrow and Saturday--a safe and uneventful journey. FAIR WINDS!
Augie
And with that, let me go into the breach one more time and put this baby to bed. But not before wishing everyone making the trek to Atlanta--beautiful weather by the way, forecast is for clear skies, with highs in the low 70's tomorrow and Saturday--a safe and uneventful journey. FAIR WINDS!
Augie
16 February 2011
Vampire Bat - Painting: Wrapping-up
And then there was one. . .
Save for the face, the Bat was all-but-done. But with the eyes behind me, the face was the tallest hurdle in the race! More zombiesque than vampire, it was a significant challenge. It finally boiled down to reproducing in a reduced scale with brushes what is regularly done in the larger scales with an airbrush. Once I was committed to that, it was smooth sailing. . .
And so we are down to 0 with less than 40 hrs. to go. Well, not quite, as there are still the final once-overs, a select number of to-be-done outlining sessions, polishing of bases, etc. But considering where we were less than 24 hrs. ago, I can consider myself . . . DONE!
Also on the agenda tomorrow is the long overdue photo-shoot!
Save for the face, the Bat was all-but-done. But with the eyes behind me, the face was the tallest hurdle in the race! More zombiesque than vampire, it was a significant challenge. It finally boiled down to reproducing in a reduced scale with brushes what is regularly done in the larger scales with an airbrush. Once I was committed to that, it was smooth sailing. . .
And so we are down to 0 with less than 40 hrs. to go. Well, not quite, as there are still the final once-overs, a select number of to-be-done outlining sessions, polishing of bases, etc. But considering where we were less than 24 hrs. ago, I can consider myself . . . DONE!
Also on the agenda tomorrow is the long overdue photo-shoot!
Red Skull - Painting: Wrapping-up
The fact that we are at the "tying-off the loose ends" would be a great thing if there weren't so many of them. . .
Given time constraints, I am going to use this posting as a log of what remained to be done.
Two down. . . one to go.
Given time constraints, I am going to use this posting as a log of what remained to be done.
- Holster permanently attached.
- Right hand permanently attached, followed by touch-ups/Phase II.
- Browning magazine plate made from AS. While detailing the holster (outlining, etc.), I noticed that Pegaso had not provided a magazine for the pistol! There's a spare magazine, yes; but no magazine in the pistol! The pistol's unloaded, you say? No. . . the frame is contiguous as modelled (see pic). So thank you, Pegaso--once again!
- Swordstick primed and painted.
- Cigarette holder primed, painted, and attached.
- Cigarette painted.
- Holster/pistol metallics painted.
- Tunic buttons painted.
Two down. . . one to go.
15 February 2011
Vampire Bat - Painting (V)
Once I returned to the bench and took stock of what was still left to be done, I felt a disquieting surge of what could only be described as panic--or as I prefer to describe it, adrenaline. And so, without so much as changing my clothes, I loaded up the airbrush and went to work on the Bat's eyes.
Mission accomplished! Things went A LOT better than anticipated-- thank God for Vallejo Model Air!--and I am 90% satisfied with the results. And it certainly does create the effect I was striving for!*
So. . . with the airbrushes cleaned and put away, it's time to get back on familiar ground and get ready for what will be close to an all- nighter. . .
*EERIE! I have it lit by ambient light--effectively, low-key lighting: the lamps are on the other pieces hopefully speeding things along-- and it is positively eerie!
FOLLOW-UP . . . The craggy pedestal is now done. A few minor touch-ups and tweaks might still be in order, but these--if any--can be addressed during the pre-Show final once-over. All that remains to be done on the Bat is the face. . .
Time for a little gnosh, maybe 40 winks. . . and then back at it!
Mission accomplished! Things went A LOT better than anticipated-- thank God for Vallejo Model Air!--and I am 90% satisfied with the results. And it certainly does create the effect I was striving for!*
So. . . with the airbrushes cleaned and put away, it's time to get back on familiar ground and get ready for what will be close to an all- nighter. . .
*EERIE! I have it lit by ambient light--effectively, low-key lighting: the lamps are on the other pieces hopefully speeding things along-- and it is positively eerie!
FOLLOW-UP . . . The craggy pedestal is now done. A few minor touch-ups and tweaks might still be in order, but these--if any--can be addressed during the pre-Show final once-over. All that remains to be done on the Bat is the face. . .
Time for a little gnosh, maybe 40 winks. . . and then back at it!
14 February 2011
Red Skull - Painting (IV)
The subject's hideous namesake is now done!
And I am delighted!!! The final results far exceed expectations. We'll see how things look once the oils settle down.
While I was at it--and before taking the deep plunge with the trench-coat--I went ahead and painted the EK2 ribbon. Save for the buttons, the tunic can be deemed finished.
BACK TO THE BENCH!!!
FOLLOW-UP . . . The right hand is now done. Should be ready for mounting on Wednesday. . .
FOLLOW-UP (2) . . . The skull handle on the swordstick has been plated and glazed: it is now curing. All that remains unpainted to any extent is the swordstick itself, cigarette holder, and the pistol holster (nicely done Browning holster!)--but that will be considered later today. Enough for one night.
UPDATE - 15.02.11. . . The holster is now painted and under the lamp. And the swordstick has been permanently attached--now comes the tricky part of priming it in situ. .
And I am delighted!!! The final results far exceed expectations. We'll see how things look once the oils settle down.
While I was at it--and before taking the deep plunge with the trench-coat--I went ahead and painted the EK2 ribbon. Save for the buttons, the tunic can be deemed finished.
BACK TO THE BENCH!!!
FOLLOW-UP . . . The right hand is now done. Should be ready for mounting on Wednesday. . .
FOLLOW-UP (2) . . . The skull handle on the swordstick has been plated and glazed: it is now curing. All that remains unpainted to any extent is the swordstick itself, cigarette holder, and the pistol holster (nicely done Browning holster!)--but that will be considered later today. Enough for one night.
UPDATE - 15.02.11. . . The holster is now painted and under the lamp. And the swordstick has been permanently attached--now comes the tricky part of priming it in situ. .
"Now let Mankind beware . . . "
. . . for Doom is DONE!!!
Or close enough to move the thread label to the Completed Projects "folder".
All that remains to be done is the outlining and detailing on the appliquéd "D" and the back of the throne. Tomorrow at the latest. Then the final once-over Friday morning, and this piece will be "in the books".
This project has been a four month-long ordeal. Allowing for the mods to the arm and leg harnesses, it should have taken no longer than 6-8 weeks (real time), start to finish. That being said, if one is sufficiently committed, it does yield a unique and attractive figure.
Finally, I have yet to see any build-up of this kit aside from the boxart. Should you run across any, please post as a comment to this thread, or email me.
One down. . . two to go!
BACK TO THE BENCH!!!
Or close enough to move the thread label to the Completed Projects "folder".
All that remains to be done is the outlining and detailing on the appliquéd "D" and the back of the throne. Tomorrow at the latest. Then the final once-over Friday morning, and this piece will be "in the books".
This project has been a four month-long ordeal. Allowing for the mods to the arm and leg harnesses, it should have taken no longer than 6-8 weeks (real time), start to finish. That being said, if one is sufficiently committed, it does yield a unique and attractive figure.
Finally, I have yet to see any build-up of this kit aside from the boxart. Should you run across any, please post as a comment to this thread, or email me.
One down. . . two to go!
BACK TO THE BENCH!!!
12 February 2011
Vampire Bat - Painting (IV)
Since my last posting, I have been working on the Vampire Bat's cowl and cape. . . It is now done--and so am I!
WHEW!!!!
Tweaks to follow on the morrow. . .
PS--Before calling it a night (or at least resting the eyes and back for a few hours), I will permanently attach the Bat to its display base.
By way of follow-up (13.02.11), the bust is now mounted on its display base, with additional groundwork modelled in Aves Apoxie-Sculpt.
WHEW!!!!
Tweaks to follow on the morrow. . .
PS--Before calling it a night (or at least resting the eyes and back for a few hours), I will permanently attach the Bat to its display base.
By way of follow-up (13.02.11), the bust is now mounted on its display base, with additional groundwork modelled in Aves Apoxie-Sculpt.
Red Skull - Painting: Intermezzo (3)
I'll be the first to admit that I have been mired in a morass of uncertainty re: the staging of The Red Skull. The what and why just wouldn't gel. But with less than a week to go--and no rsvp from my groundwork Muse--it was time to take matters into my own hands.
And so, most of this morning was spent prepping the display base and making the groundwork. Lest the imagination start running wild, I will say that the groundwork is a simple slab of poured, finished concrete--or a facsimile thereof once I have it painted. Is that it? No, not as of this writing; but more on that when the time comes. . .
And now, if you'll excuse me, I must repair to the Bat-cave. . .
FOLLOW-UP - 13.02.11. . . After careful consideration of what lay ahead, I decided to go ahead and paint the groundwork (Phase I), and permanently attach the figure to its display base. Those of you who know me know that this is most definitely not the way I normally work, but there you have it: three pieces mounted on their display bases long before I would normally effect the transfer!
And so, most of this morning was spent prepping the display base and making the groundwork. Lest the imagination start running wild, I will say that the groundwork is a simple slab of poured, finished concrete--or a facsimile thereof once I have it painted. Is that it? No, not as of this writing; but more on that when the time comes. . .
And now, if you'll excuse me, I must repair to the Bat-cave. . .
FOLLOW-UP - 13.02.11. . . After careful consideration of what lay ahead, I decided to go ahead and paint the groundwork (Phase I), and permanently attach the figure to its display base. Those of you who know me know that this is most definitely not the way I normally work, but there you have it: three pieces mounted on their display bases long before I would normally effect the transfer!
11 February 2011
The eyes have it. . .
By way of update, I'm about ready to begin Phase II of the eyes on the Bat and the Red Skull. The former will not be completed until later next week, as it will involve some "special effects" that are uncharted territory for me; the latter should be ready for glazing by Sunday. . .
FOLLOW-UP. . . The Red Skull's eyes are now ready for glazing. With the eyes done, I went ahead and completed painting the lower portions of the cranium and jawline, and permanently attached the head.
FOLLOW-UP. . . The Red Skull's eyes are now ready for glazing. With the eyes done, I went ahead and completed painting the lower portions of the cranium and jawline, and permanently attached the head.
10 February 2011
Vampire Bat - Painting (III)
With a little over a week to go, I was finally able to break out the oils on the Bat!
Tonight, I did the grey of his torso. If everything goes as planned (and people call me a "pessimist"--HA!), I'll have the cape and cowl done by the end of the weekend.
Tonight, I did the grey of his torso. If everything goes as planned (and people call me a "pessimist"--HA!), I'll have the cape and cowl done by the end of the weekend.
07 February 2011
Doctor Doom - Painting (VIII): PLATE
Phase III has begun!!!
This evening was the beginning of the wrapping-up of the figure itself. Which means the last 90 mins. or so were spent tweaking the armour, and most of my time was spent on the arm harnesses. These are now about 80% complete, though I will have to revisit them when I give the mantle a final once over.
More to follow. . .
UPDATE - 08.02.11. . . More of the same, with an emphasis on the leg harnesses. Almost there. . .
This evening was the beginning of the wrapping-up of the figure itself. Which means the last 90 mins. or so were spent tweaking the armour, and most of my time was spent on the arm harnesses. These are now about 80% complete, though I will have to revisit them when I give the mantle a final once over.
More to follow. . .
UPDATE - 08.02.11. . . More of the same, with an emphasis on the leg harnesses. Almost there. . .
06 February 2011
Doctor Doom - Painting (VII)
Those of you following this thread know that this has been a less than stellar weekend for me; but I finally felt well enough this afternoon to at least suffer through what lay before me.
Before what passed for lunch, I set the eyes and attached the clasp chains--the former I will revisit later in the week to see what, if any, improvements might be had. The latter were challenging, but completed without complication. All that remains to be done is the highlighting and final hard-contrast reflective shading of the mantle's hardware.
After the afternoon repast, I decided to permanently attach the arms. In other words, I finally have a fully-assembled figure before me!!! Which means Phase II painting is now completed. The eighth installment in this project will launch Phase III and Final Wrap-up. . .
Until then. . .
Before what passed for lunch, I set the eyes and attached the clasp chains--the former I will revisit later in the week to see what, if any, improvements might be had. The latter were challenging, but completed without complication. All that remains to be done is the highlighting and final hard-contrast reflective shading of the mantle's hardware.
After the afternoon repast, I decided to permanently attach the arms. In other words, I finally have a fully-assembled figure before me!!! Which means Phase II painting is now completed. The eighth installment in this project will launch Phase III and Final Wrap-up. . .
Until then. . .
02 February 2011
POLL--Grading our blog!
At the top of the blog sidebar, you will notice a poll. This poll attempts to circumvent the unilateral nature of blogs by soliciting your participation--and opinion!
In short, how am I doing? Do you find it informative? What would you like to see more of (I am well aware of the clamor for more images: while I will try to improve on that aspect of the blog, time limita- tions--as well as other salient reasons--will always preclude this becoming a primarily graphic venue.)? Less of?? What would you do differently???
You get the idea. You're vote is good. An elaborated vote (by posting a comment in this thread) would be even better!
This poll will run through the evening of Feb. 25th.
Thanks in advance!
In short, how am I doing? Do you find it informative? What would you like to see more of (I am well aware of the clamor for more images: while I will try to improve on that aspect of the blog, time limita- tions--as well as other salient reasons--will always preclude this becoming a primarily graphic venue.)? Less of?? What would you do differently???
You get the idea. You're vote is good. An elaborated vote (by posting a comment in this thread) would be even better!
This poll will run through the evening of Feb. 25th.
Thanks in advance!
01 February 2011
Doctor Doom - Painting: Intermezzo (2)
A short evening/night and a L-O-N-G day ahead of me tomorrow is not the makings of a blockbuster night at the bench, so I decided to keep it short and sweet . . .
Doom's groundwork has been completed! I was actually a bit unsure on how I was going to approach this, but once I broke out the oils, it was smooth sailing. Obviously there will be some retouching, recasting of the lights once the throne (read: figure!) has been permanently mounted; but for now, I couldn't be happier!
Speaking of the watershed transferal, I am hoping to have Doom permanently mounted on his display pedestal sometime this weekend. I want to have any gilding in contact with the groundwork finished before I proceed, but most of the gilding will be done once the figure is mounted.
The balance of the evening will be devoted to Doom's eyes, which have not been touched to date!
More to follow. . .
FOLLOW-UP. . . The "whites" of Doom's eyes have been blocked-in. Wrapping them up is gonna be tricky: there is very little room to maneuver, and given the penchant of acrylic painters for heavy shadows and "overhead light", I'm not too sure if the eyes were ever intended to be seen. BUT. . . the eyes themselves are fairly sharply rendered, so there will be eyes!
UPDATE - 05.02.11. . . The last few days have been spent in bed with an illness I would wish upon very few. Today is my first day at the bench since last Wednesday, and this has been the picture-perfect ill-timed illness: not only is the show less than a fortnight away, but I am slammed at work with unseasonable volume.
I am still at least a couple of days from being 100%, which means I will make no significant headway before next weekend. So I try to take baby-steps and work my way towards the ultimate goal. To this end, Doom has been permanently mounted on his display base. I have also painted and sealed the mantle clasp chains.
The gods willing, I will be able to set the eyes and attach the mantle chains tomorrow. That will at least make-up for some lost time. Otherwise. . .
Doom's groundwork has been completed! I was actually a bit unsure on how I was going to approach this, but once I broke out the oils, it was smooth sailing. Obviously there will be some retouching, recasting of the lights once the throne (read: figure!) has been permanently mounted; but for now, I couldn't be happier!
Speaking of the watershed transferal, I am hoping to have Doom permanently mounted on his display pedestal sometime this weekend. I want to have any gilding in contact with the groundwork finished before I proceed, but most of the gilding will be done once the figure is mounted.
The balance of the evening will be devoted to Doom's eyes, which have not been touched to date!
More to follow. . .
FOLLOW-UP. . . The "whites" of Doom's eyes have been blocked-in. Wrapping them up is gonna be tricky: there is very little room to maneuver, and given the penchant of acrylic painters for heavy shadows and "overhead light", I'm not too sure if the eyes were ever intended to be seen. BUT. . . the eyes themselves are fairly sharply rendered, so there will be eyes!
UPDATE - 05.02.11. . . The last few days have been spent in bed with an illness I would wish upon very few. Today is my first day at the bench since last Wednesday, and this has been the picture-perfect ill-timed illness: not only is the show less than a fortnight away, but I am slammed at work with unseasonable volume.
I am still at least a couple of days from being 100%, which means I will make no significant headway before next weekend. So I try to take baby-steps and work my way towards the ultimate goal. To this end, Doom has been permanently mounted on his display base. I have also painted and sealed the mantle clasp chains.
The gods willing, I will be able to set the eyes and attach the mantle chains tomorrow. That will at least make-up for some lost time. Otherwise. . .
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