A Feather in Your Cap

Thanks to Christopher for giving me the idea to attempt 1920s Art Deco. I’m really happy with this one. It started out very generic as the girl was seen in online somewhere, but of course I never replicate things exactly (I couldn’t if I tried!).

With colors this one looked busy but boring. Then I saw a cat that was done in black and white in a somewhat abstract way and it gave me the idea to dial it back on the colors and accentuate a black and white (or cream?) foundation. I think it adds a little formality.

I learned something today though. I’ve heard the old saying “put a feather in your cap,” but I never knew what it actually meant ( probably didn’t care).

Anyway, it means “to achieve something noteworthy, or to earn a praiseworthy accomplishment that you can be proud of.” That works for me because I suppose this woman looks like she’s proud of something. Maybe her cool black pearl dress strap.

In reality, I think she’s basking in the sun. It’s not in the picture, but it’s there… shining its light on her. Applauding her for a job well done. So perhaps I did accomplish the sun today, just in a much more abstract way.

I also learned that sometimes less really IS more. Sometimes I waste time trying to add more colors or lines, or to make something look ‘real life’ – which never happens – but I found with this one that taking away from it actually added to it. There’s a life lesson in there I’m sure.

That being said, I need to focus on making illustrations look like… well… illustrations. I did that here and I am so much happier for it. Trying to turn them into something they’re not just doesn’t work. It’s not authentic and it ends up spoiling the whole picture. Another life lesson!

That’s all for now. I’m going to think about my next project soon, but for now it’s time to say goodnight.

Thank you so much for viewing/reading.
I hope you enjoyed!