Inspiration and Research

Step 1: Inspiration for Rascally Ravens of Greystone Farm

My illustrations for Rascally Ravens are rooted in my on-going wild life series, inspired by daily observations and my photographs of New England, Mid-western, and Texas landscapes, flora, and fauna.

Color illustration of two ravens flying above a house.
Ravens Dancing, excerpt from my wildlife illustration series. Mixed media drawing based on my direct observation of a courting raven couple

Photographic references I took of New England landscapes, documenting various seasons.

Photograph of trees with snow
New England in winter
Landscape photograph of a pine tree with fall foliage in the background.
New England in autumn
Photograph of the base of a windmill and barn on a sunny day.
New England in late summer

Step 2: Drawing Studies and Character Design

After collecting factual information on raven behavior and anatomy, I did sketches from life and credible sources to better understand my subject.

Drawing of a raven skeleton on a black background.
Raven skeleton study
Black and white pencil sketch of a raven.
Raven sketch from life

For believability and authenticity, I based the character designs on my drawing studies, research, and direct observation of ravens. I also used contrasts in proportion, size, shape, and color to convey each character's distinct personality.

Color sketch of five ravens on a white background.
Character design for Angelo, Carmen, Big Sisters, and Dink
Color sketch of a woman, dog, and raven. Includes color palette used.
Character design for Hattie, Buster, and Dink

Step 3: Character Development and Interactions

To get to know my characters, I explored the relationship between the two protagonists, Carmen and Angelo, and staged them interacting in various scenes. These fictional images are based on actual ravel behavior.

Sketch drawing of ravens flying with sticks
As depicted in the sketch, wild ravens play catch with sticks
Sketch drawing of a raven dropping dog food from its mouth while looking at another raven. A dog is sleeping in the background.
As shown in this sketch, ravens are opportunists when it comes to their diet. They forage anything from wild seeds and nuts to garbage and pet food
Color sketch of two ravens rubbing beaks.
This color study shows Carmen and Angelo engaged in the raven beak-clicking ritual performed by mating pairs
Sketch illustration of a dog playing catch with ravens outside.
Original drawings for Buster and Hattie Join Stick Play
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