Joker - Arkham: Prep IV--Finishing

All the major work has been completed--the scrub "collar" is ideal! I am now down to final finish- ing and assembly. There will be some tweaking to be done to the fit and details on the straitjack- et straps prior to attachment, but this is little more than fine detailing. The only piece that will not be attached before priming will be the hand.

Almost done. . .

UPDATE 23.07.2018. . . The straps have been permanently attached. All that remains to be done on the straps are minor spot fills and seam integration. . . DONE

UPDATE 25.07.2018. . . Save for some minor tweaking about the hair and the dentition, the bust is ready to be primed. Priming is scheduled over the weekend. . . DONE

“When the cost of a hobby exceeds the fun and doesn't attract new people, the game is over.” -
Oscar Koveleski, August 2003

Joker - Arkham: Prep III--The Collar

Some of you might recall that a significant aspect of my 'redesign' included sculpting the open collar of an Arkham jumpsuit. 

This is a bit of a tricky undertaking without a separate head. Initially, I decided to execute it in two lateral halves, which would afford me the most flexibility in when to attach it, with the least amount of complexity. 

And I had effectively completed the collar, but somethings were not right, not the least of which was the fact that visible areas on the collar and flesh would be unattainable to paint. So I care- fully removed the collar, and reassessed. . .

I have all but decided to go with an institutional scrub top--collarless. This will satisfy the thema- tic and chromatic requirements, as well as eliminate any of the painting "traps".  

Stay tuned! 

UPDATE 21.07.2018. . . The scrub "collar" has been roughed-in and finishing has begun. This is a much more suitable garment--practically and aesthetically! Should progress continue at this pace, Mista' J might be on the painting bench by the end of next weekend!

“When the cost of a hobby exceeds the fun and doesn't attract new people, the game is over.” -
Oscar Koveleski, August 2003

Joker - Arkham: Prep II--The Plinth

I decided to begin with the only omission of note of this kit: the plinth. 

Fewer busts are now provided with either a plinth (preferable), or a geometrical structure to sup- port the bust (rod, tube, etc.). I can certainly understand the savings involved; however, the rela- tively inexperienced miniaturist is in for a rude surprise! As I've mentioned in other postings, what- ever savings might be realized, I do not believe them worth the potential loss of a dedicated fol- lower, or never seeing the piece completed and displayed.

The plinth is now roughed-in, with preliminary finishing underway. So far, so good. . .

“When the cost of a hobby exceeds the fun and doesn't attract new people, the game is over.” -
Oscar Koveleski, August 2003

Clown Prince of Arkham-Review and Prep I

I am the delighted recipient of Altores Studio's recent (February) release: Restless Patient (B-079, 1/10 scale bust) [nb: the bust was ordered from El Greco Miniatures--a pleasure as always!].

What you get. This is an exquisitely cast (PERFECTION!) bust comprised of 6 pieces: the one-piece bust, 4 straitjacket belt-ends, and the right hand w/ straight razor. There is no pedestal/ plinth included in the kit. The resin is a bit "softer" than I prefer; but given the modifications I intend to undertake, the medium is ideal!

The bust as designed holds very little appeal, no matter the excellence of the sculpture or the casting; however, this was love at first sight! What a magnificent basis for a conversion to the Joker!! While the boxart makes no allusion to Mista' J, several build-ups that I have seen sport
a green 'do and noticeably pale skin, though the busts themselves were not subjected to any modification/s.

The required work, afaic, revolves around the face/head. I will give Mista' J a full head of hair, filling out the exposed skin at the site of the craniotomy; and I will rework the mouth/lips to a more tra- ditional psychotic smile. There are a few other enhancements on the TDL, but all in good time.

To date, I have roughed-in the hair, and I have begun working on the upper lip--a GREAT start!

Stay tuned!

PS--The bust has been pegged, and transferred to its work base.

“When the cost of a hobby exceeds the fun and doesn't attract new people, the game is over.” -
Oscar Koveleski, August 2003