Project wrap up - Joan d’Arc
In the run-up to the recent Long Island Model Show I was seriously scrambling to get a few more pieces complete. Chief among them was the Joan d’Arc buts that I post about in September (my how time flies!). Thankfully, I made it … and wanted to share a few in-progress images on my way to getting her finalized. So, here it goes …
Since my last post on this project - where I had completed the face and started the armor - I next worked on finishing the NMM across the breastplate and arms. My plan had always been to light her primarily from above and include some environmental reflections / OSL elements so I could practice those techniques. I worked to create a red / orange glow from an imagined fire to Joan’s left, which I added to the breastplate and across the right arm. I also added in subtle suggestions of the this light to the sword.
Once the NMM was complete, I next had to complete the mail and padded coat under the armor - the “Gambeson”. I opted for red coloring, as it worked nicely with the balance of the pallet. the last detail was the leather straps, which I did my best to weather. With all the base pieces fully painted, it was time for assembly. She fit together wonderfully!
Once she was fully assembled, I went to work on the background plinth I had selected. My plan was to paint a scene just outside Orleans, with the smoke of battle wafting up around Joan. I envisioned a French battle flag behind her, with a ray of heavenly light coming down from above. I began with a quick pencil sketch on the primed / masked plinth. Over this, I used an airbrush to create a blue sky background and various shades of smoke. I then painted in the flag and a tower silhouette using a brush, and then completed the process with more airbrushing to help blend everything in. Lastly, using a sheet of paper for a mask, I airbrushed in the “heavenly glow”.
“The Maid of Orleans”
Et viola! Here’s the finished piece placed on the painted plinth. I’m very happy with how she came out, and was honored to receive a Gold Medal, “Best Bust” and the “Best Medieval Figure” awards at the LIMCS show on November 15.