Michael Whelan

THE WILDING (2004)
Acrylic on Canvas - 28" x 18"

The story involves genetic manipulation so I had fun finding ways to incorporate symbols of genetic biology into the decorative jewelry around the figure. 1/4

#sciencefiction #scifi #sff #scifiart #illustration #csfriedman

Feb 7, 2025 at 6:43pmWeb
Show threadMichael WhelanFeb 7, 2025
This painting represents a hybrid of techniques for me. I did the original sketch in acrylic, scanned it into the computer and adjusted it using Photoshop, then output the study full size as a monochrome print on canvas, which then became the underpainting for the final rendering. 2/4
Show threadMichael WhelanFeb 7, 2025
In addition to writing, C.S. Friedman is also costume designer and lampwork artist. Her affinity for jewel tones certainly influenced the art direction on her covers. 3/4
Show threadMichael WhelanFeb 7, 2025

Cover illustration for the book by C.S. Friedman (DAW)

https://www.michaelwhelan.com/galleries/wilding/

WILDING

The story involves genetic manipulation so I had fun finding ways to incorporate symbols of genetic biology into the decorative jewelry around the figure. This painting represents a hybrid of techn…

The Art of Michael Whelan
Show threadEpiscoGrrlFeb 7, 2025
@MichaelWhelan stunning!
Show threadPYM le pirate capoeiristeFeb 7, 2025
@MichaelWhelan So beautiful but also damn interesting to understand the process… what gave you the idea to do the acrylic->photoshop->b&w printing->painting again sequence/workflow ?
Show threadMichael WhelanFeb 12, 2025
@pmartin Yeah. Well, I liked the comp so much that I felt all I had to do was blow it up and use that reproduction as a basis for a final rendering. Scanning it and printing a full-size enlargement seemed the simplest way to get going on the final painting without having to redraw the thing all over again, which would have been both needlessly time-consuming ...and boring. 1/2
Show threadMichael WhelanFeb 12, 2025

@pmartin While I had the monochrome image in my computer I decided to design and position the little globular spaceship into the composition, which is where the Photoshop work came in.

I hope that clears up my attitude towards the process somewhat. 😉 2/2

Show threadPYM le pirate capoeiristeFeb 12, 2025
@MichaelWhelan Yes thanks a lot this is really more clear now 🙏