Feature Illustration: The Isle of Precious Things

​It’s not often I create artworks for personal purposes, hell knows I have enough things already adorning my walls. But a few months ago I was asked to be Godmother to my one year old Niece. So, with the Christmas rush behind me and a little extra studio time, I thought it would be a nice idea  for her christening gift to create a large-scaled canvas. After all, she'll be inundated with jewellery and books - I can keep that trip to Thomas Sabo and Waterstones on the back-burner until her birthday.

So first things first, I needed some ideas! I made a list of things I knew were important to her, and although she doesn’t quite have the vocabulary to articulate what she enjoys most, a chat with her parents and a peek at her toys did give me an insight. 

I’ve been told that she’s starting to love animals; has a mild obsession with In The Night Garden; and has been clutching a Peppa Pig book for the last 5 or so weeks. (I’m beginning to think my sister-in-law birthed the book at the same time.) With these nuggets of information I thought to myself that an animal-themed, family adventure scene would be nice. 

Now, I have to confess, as the brief was a little open-ended (and I too love animals), I wanted the artwork to raise awareness and teach my Niece about the importance of animal welfare as well as being a piece of art she can enjoy for years to come.

I did visual research on some endangered animals and began creating some rough sketches to see which would work with my theme.

​When I had my animal choices locked down, I started sketching out a composition with my Niece being the focal point at the centre. The colours came next with a predominantly green palette to match her room and echo the natural surroundings.

Below I’ve picked out some important details:

​When the canvas was opened I received this lovely message from my sister-in-law:

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All the best,

Sophie x