I just thought I'd share a comment I posted to someone here online, in the hopes of reaching any others who have similar interests in finding inspiration, and learning about texture rendering. We are all of us educating ourselves at all times in all ways. But we mustn't forget the example of those who kindly guided us, and we must likewise offer guidance to others in courteous generosity.
Obviously, this was not a tutorial, but a pat on the back, and a bit of directory advice.
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Sorry about blowing your mind. Happens to me all the time, and I know how painful and messy it can be.
But, welcome to a world of enlightenment here among your kindred. When I was first invited to join this site, I gawked in amazement at the wide range of talent here, as well as the unique opportunity to share and learn. Pull up a chair, and take advantage of the bountiful feast.
As for what to absorb in your training, and books to read, I would recommend whatever you can get your hands on that strikes your fancy, and a few things that don't. This will help you become well-rounded. Balance your intake of pop art with fine art. Bear in mind, there will always be pitfalls, and wrong turns. But these things also have their value in marking the path you hope to tread. Yes, there are years of drudgery ahead, and challenges that will seem insurmountable. However, anything worthwhile demands time, and great effort. If it were easy, then everyone would be doing it.
Off the top of my noggin, regarding textures and cross-hatching, I'd look up the works of Arthur Rackham, Winsor McCay, Joseph Clement Coll, Charles Dana Gibson, Winslow Homer, James Montgomery Flagg, Maurice Sendak, and Gustave Doré, as well as several of the classic comic book masters, including Michael Golden, Bernie Wrightson, Gene Colan, Frank Frazetta, and Alex Raymond. There are also some pretty awesome fellow Deviants online here you might want to check out in my Favorites Gallery.
Above all, try to banish fear. Confidence is the fuel that stokes the creative fire. Remember that.
As for the rest-- have FUN!!!








But, alas! I won't be attending this year due to the new job I took on this month. I so wanted to meet up with fellow Deviants, and make new friends that would buy me lunch. It woulda been nice to hang out with the Grumpy Goat.
*weeps uncontrollably*
Thank you, kind sir!
Oh, wait... You already did. DOH!!