Snax's Musky painting in progress
Musky Snax
Posted 2/24/2007 4:29 PM (#241231)
Subject: Snax's Musky painting in progress





Posts: 680


Location: Muskoka Ontario,Canada
Hi guys,
I'm working on a painting which I hope will one day grace the cover of Musky Hunter Magazine and possibly be sold as prints. I never really show my art before it is done but I'd like to share this special one as it comes along. This way you will see it come to life a little at a time. I truly hope you enjoy the journey. Here it is is it's very raw state with the Musky and one sucker in its mouth barely fleshed out. Eventually this will be as detailed as any of my baits and with luck I won't screw it up!!!


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Raider150
Posted 2/24/2007 4:58 PM (#241237 - in reply to #241231)
Subject: RE: Snax's Musky painting in progress...





Posts: 434


Location: searchin for 50
AWESOME!!!!!!!!!!!
Grunt Lures
Posted 2/24/2007 6:15 PM (#241256 - in reply to #241231)
Subject: RE: Snax's Musky painting in progress...





Posts: 786


Location: Minnesota
Looking good Snax! If it turns out half as good as your baits do I am sure I will own 1245/5000. Or something like that...
Pointerpride102
Posted 2/24/2007 7:49 PM (#241266 - in reply to #241231)
Subject: Re: Snax's Musky painting in progress...





Posts: 16632


Location: The desert
Dang man......I cant even get stick figures right!
Reelwise
Posted 2/24/2007 8:47 PM (#241273 - in reply to #241266)
Subject: Re: Snax's Musky painting in progress...




Posts: 1636


WOW that is some beautiful work. I can not wait to see it finished!
Musky Snax
Posted 2/24/2007 8:49 PM (#241274 - in reply to #241231)
Subject: Re: Snax's Musky painting in progress...





Posts: 680


Location: Muskoka Ontario,Canada
Thanks guys. This one will take some time to complete as I spend countless hours making baits before endulging in any personal time.
MACK
Posted 2/24/2007 9:50 PM (#241281 - in reply to #241231)
Subject: Re: Snax's Musky painting in progress...




Posts: 1086


Awesome! Very nice. Can't wait to see the finished product. It'd be cool to have another thread, or add to this one, with the progress shots along with the final product. What medium are you working with to do that painting?
Musky Snax
Posted 2/24/2007 10:09 PM (#241283 - in reply to #241231)
Subject: Re: Snax's Musky painting in progress...





Posts: 680


Location: Muskoka Ontario,Canada
The painting is done using the airbrush, pencil, and acrylics with paint brushes for certain effects. I use whatever works best to get the result I'm after. I will update this thread with photos when time allows. Thanks for the nice comments everyone.
muskyboy
Posted 2/24/2007 11:11 PM (#241288 - in reply to #241231)
Subject: Re: Snax's Musky painting in progress...


Can't wait to see the finished product, excellent work my friend!
sworrall
Posted 2/25/2007 8:36 AM (#241324 - in reply to #241288)
Subject: Re: Snax's Musky painting in progress...





Posts: 32977


Location: Rhinelander, Wisconsin
Looking good, sir! The fish's eye looks REALLY good, that's apparently hard to get right. Great work!
curleytail
Posted 2/25/2007 9:49 AM (#241332 - in reply to #241324)
Subject: Re: Snax's Musky painting in progress...




Posts: 2690


Location: Hayward, WI
Wow that really looks great. Even if you stopped right now it would look neat!

curleytail
Billy B
Posted 2/25/2007 10:36 AM (#241336 - in reply to #241231)
Subject: Re: Snax's Musky painting in progress...




Posts: 267


Location: Ft. Wayne, Indiana
I can't wait to see how the finishied product looks.
esox69
Posted 2/25/2007 12:27 PM (#241353 - in reply to #241231)
Subject: RE: Snax's Musky painting in progress...


awesome work there mike- you're a man of many talents i see! be sure to post the finished work...
Musky Snax
Posted 2/25/2007 3:00 PM (#241402 - in reply to #241231)
Subject: Re: Snax's Musky painting in progress...





Posts: 680


Location: Muskoka Ontario,Canada
Thanks again guys. I worked on it a little more this afternoon. Remember that certain things may seem overdone during this stage but will be adjusted as it progresses. An example is the light rays which will be blended during subsequent steps. The fun for me is seeing my imagination appearing on the paper before me!


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DEMolishedyou2
Posted 2/25/2007 3:20 PM (#241406 - in reply to #241402)
Subject: Re: Snax's Musky painting in progress...





Posts: 434


Location: Omaha, Nebraska
Mike,
That is awesome! I can't wait to see it finished.
guts
Posted 2/25/2007 4:09 PM (#241414 - in reply to #241266)
Subject: Re: Snax's Musky painting in progress...




Posts: 556


Pointerpride102 - 2/24/2007 7:49 PM

Dang man......I cant even get stick figures right!
i know dude me to the one arm is always shorter than the other
Dre322
Posted 2/25/2007 5:14 PM (#241423 - in reply to #241231)
Subject: RE: Snax's Musky painting in progress...




Posts: 117


Thats just too AWESOME!!! wish i could have a snax

Editor's note:

Buy one!
uptown
Posted 2/25/2007 8:38 PM (#241461 - in reply to #241231)
Subject: RE: Snax's Musky painting in progress...




Posts: 432


Location: mpls
Snax!
WOW! That looks great! Can't wait to see the finished product!
Joe
ToddM
Posted 2/25/2007 9:45 PM (#241471 - in reply to #241231)
Subject: Re: Snax's Musky painting in progress...





Posts: 20282


Location: oswego, il
Snax, way cool. They way some of you guys have been painting, I think it is neat that somebody took it another direction. Would be cool to see other's try it or some other kind of artwork as well. Great job!
Hunter4
Posted 2/25/2007 9:54 PM (#241475 - in reply to #241231)
Subject: Re: Snax's Musky painting in progress...




Posts: 720


Snax,

What a gift. I am and have always admired the talents of people like yourself. I wanted to thank you for sharing a little piece of that gift with the rest of us mortals. Truly amazing stuff.

Dave
Medford Fisher
Posted 2/26/2007 12:00 AM (#241496 - in reply to #241231)
Subject: Re: Snax's Musky painting in progress




Posts: 1061


Location: Medford, WI
Great to see this. I always like seeing any type of art related to muskies; and someday I hope to find a way I can do something half-way "artistically". I started to paint baits this winter a little bit and plan on continuing to do so in the future.
Thanks for sharing this as well as your baits in the other forum, Jake Bucki
RiverMan
Posted 2/26/2007 10:42 AM (#241568 - in reply to #241231)
Subject: Re: Snax's Musky painting in progress




Posts: 1504


Location: Oregon
That's nice Mike!

jed v.
Kazmuskie
Posted 2/26/2007 10:12 PM (#241731 - in reply to #241231)
Subject: Re: Snax's Musky painting in progress




Posts: 194


Is it me, or does the sucker look like it's crying? Nice work!
Tigger
Posted 2/27/2007 3:55 PM (#241886 - in reply to #241231)
Subject: Re: Snax's Musky painting in progress





Posts: 399


Location: Burton, Ohio
Mike that is great! I love that kinda stuff.
rjbass
Posted 2/27/2007 4:30 PM (#241890 - in reply to #241231)
Subject: RE: Snax's Musky painting in progress





Posts: 179


Location: Sault Ste. Marie, Michigan
You are a very talented guy....that is really awesome.

Rod
pamuskyhunter
Posted 2/28/2007 9:30 PM (#242184 - in reply to #241231)
Subject: Re: Snax's Musky painting in progress





Posts: 613


Location: big cove tannery pa
Your really talented,sweet picture
LeMay
Posted 3/1/2007 7:55 AM (#242232 - in reply to #241231)
Subject: RE: Snax's Musky painting in progress





Posts: 106


Location: Michigan
Great looking snax!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

LeMay OUt
Guest
Posted 3/1/2007 5:28 PM (#242352 - in reply to #241231)
Subject: RE: Snax's Musky painting in progress


Come on Snax I'm waiting for another preview!!
Bayboo_baits
Posted 3/2/2007 10:10 PM (#242558 - in reply to #241231)
Subject: RE: Snax's Musky painting in progress





Posts: 129


Location: Milwaukee Wi
Dude that so good there going to hang it up next to mona lisa it will be musky by snax!!!
Musky Snax
Posted 3/4/2007 9:57 PM (#242847 - in reply to #241231)
Subject: Re: Snax's Musky painting in progress





Posts: 680


Location: Muskoka Ontario,Canada
After working hard all weekend on an upcoming series of articles on custom lure painting for Iwata-Medea, I finally got to work on the musky painting a little. As I mentioned before, there may be colors that are not quite right until it is completed but with each layer it's getting closer and closer. By the Iwata-Medea makes the airbrushes and air compressors I use and will be featuring my four how to articles on their website soon. It's a huge honour for me to be showing the world what can be done with dedication and imagination. I hope I do all us bait makers proud!

Oh, I can't believe I almost forgot to mention the coolest part about these articles...
The last lesson is how I paint my Bluegills and the bait used in the photos is the very Bluegill I'm donating to MuskieFirst! This bait is one of the colaboration baits we talked about doing and it will have the other side of it done by my buddy Tigger once I send it out to him. That will be neat for whoever ends up with it as it will have been featured on the Iwata website and newsletter for all to see how it was done!

Edited by Musky Snax 3/4/2007 10:17 PM



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sworrall
Posted 3/5/2007 8:47 AM (#242888 - in reply to #242847)
Subject: Re: Snax's Musky painting in progress





Posts: 32977


Location: Rhinelander, Wisconsin
The painting is coming along very nicely, great work! Congratulations on the articles, drop in a link when they are up.
castmaster
Posted 3/7/2007 11:33 AM (#243343 - in reply to #241231)
Subject: Re: Snax's Musky painting in progress





Posts: 910


Location: Hastings, mn, 55033
WOW!!!
Musky Snax
Posted 3/8/2007 4:02 PM (#243603 - in reply to #241231)
Subject: RE: Snax's Musky painting in progress





Posts: 680


Location: Muskoka Ontario,Canada
After a crazy day of building baits I took an hour and did a little more work to the painting....


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Musky Snax
Posted 3/8/2007 6:55 PM (#243640 - in reply to #241231)
Subject: RE: Snax's Musky painting in progress





Posts: 680


Location: Muskoka Ontario,Canada
And a little more detailing. Note the algae growing on the piece of wood on the right.


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GbayGiant
Posted 3/8/2007 10:37 PM (#243666 - in reply to #241231)
Subject: RE: Snax's Musky painting in progress


Very nice Snax. First one I've seen feeding downward, don't they usually strike upward ? I guess she is eating a sucker though, bottom feeder. It's just weird seeing a musky strike down, but it probably happens more than I think.
Musky Snax
Posted 3/8/2007 10:54 PM (#243668 - in reply to #241231)
Subject: Re: Snax's Musky painting in progress





Posts: 680


Location: Muskoka Ontario,Canada
Great observation actually! I recently saw on Youtube a video clip of some baby pike feeding in a tank and one them was suspending near the surface then suddenly darted downwards to grab an approaching baitfish. I think that it used its lateral line to know where its prey was as I don't believe they can see downwards like that. It was one of the reasons for this painting being as it is. I resisted the urge to put one of my baits in its mouth...thought it might be a tad indulgent. lol
Musky Snax
Posted 3/9/2007 8:58 AM (#243711 - in reply to #243668)
Subject: Re: Snax's Musky painting in progress





Posts: 680


Location: Muskoka Ontario,Canada
Nearly done now. I worked on it a little more this morning while waiting for the garage to warm up enough to work in it. Did I mention how much I HATE WINTER!!!


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Musky Snax
Posted 3/9/2007 2:31 PM (#243762 - in reply to #243711)
Subject: Re: Snax's Musky painting in progress





Posts: 680


Location: Muskoka Ontario,Canada
Here it is at the very beginning and now that it's done. Quite a transformation! I actually was going to have another Sucker scooting out from between the rocks that you can see in the pencil sketch. I emailed Musky Hunter Magazine about it so we'll see what happens. That would be too cool to make a front cover!!! (I can dream!)



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ghitierman
Posted 3/9/2007 4:45 PM (#243780 - in reply to #241231)
Subject: RE: Snax's Musky painting in progress





Posts: 284


You said you never really shared your art befor but we have all seen your baits. No matter what anybody says thats art. You have any paintings that you have done in the past that are finished
RiverMan
Posted 3/9/2007 5:27 PM (#243782 - in reply to #241231)
Subject: Re: Snax's Musky painting in progress




Posts: 1504


Location: Oregon
Very nice.........

jed v.
Musky Snax
Posted 3/9/2007 5:35 PM (#243784 - in reply to #241231)
Subject: Re: Snax's Musky painting in progress





Posts: 680


Location: Muskoka Ontario,Canada
Thanks guys!
I don't have any other paintings as I've never done any before. Not since I was about 10 years old anyway. This is the first and hopefully not the last. It's a great break from making baits all day (and night) and it keeps me growing as a painter which is obviously useful for the baits I make.

Once I get some prints done, if there's an event that MuskieFirst could use one as a prize, consider it donated. That's the least I can do for all the incredibly generous exposure from the site.

Edited by Musky Snax 3/9/2007 5:37 PM
Medford Fisher
Posted 3/9/2007 11:08 PM (#243834 - in reply to #241231)
Subject: Re: Snax's Musky painting in progress




Posts: 1061


Location: Medford, WI
Great to see it finished Snax. Congrats on your first painting, and I hope to see more in the future!
Great job, Jake Bucki
pamuskyhunter
Posted 3/10/2007 3:45 AM (#243845 - in reply to #241231)
Subject: Re: Snax's Musky painting in progress





Posts: 613


Location: big cove tannery pa
Very nice snax great work
Musky Snax
Posted 3/12/2007 10:00 AM (#244209 - in reply to #241231)
Subject: Re: Snax's Musky painting in progress





Posts: 680


Location: Muskoka Ontario,Canada
Hey guys, I heard back from Steve Heiting today regarding the chance of this painting ending up on a cover. I'm the first to admit that it is pretty far fetched to expect my first painting to wind up on a cover but it never hurts to ask!
If anyone wishes to contact him and try to persuade him otherwise please tell him why you'd like to see it on the cover. Thanks again for all the nice comments. Here's his reply:
Hi Mike:

Thanks, but we're not interested in this painting. Please keep us
informed of your future works, however.

Regards,

Steve Heiting
Musky Hunter Magazine
1-800-236-8759
<[email protected]>

Edited by Musky Snax 3/12/2007 10:03 AM
Reelwise
Posted 3/12/2007 10:38 AM (#244216 - in reply to #241231)
Subject: Re: Snax's Musky painting in progress




Posts: 1636


Mike, I would shoot for another magazine, because this is definitely front cover worthy. Then again, it is your first and hopefully not your last. I would like to see a painting of two muskies fighting over a big sucker. I saw this happen on Shelbyville.
Musky Snax
Posted 3/12/2007 12:29 PM (#244237 - in reply to #241231)
Subject: RE: Snax's Musky painting in progress





Posts: 680


Location: Muskoka Ontario,Canada
allen - 3/12/2007 1:26 PM

2 ugly to be in a front page!


That's very helpful. Could you perhaps elaborate and explain what is ugly about it?
cjrich
Posted 3/12/2007 12:48 PM (#244243 - in reply to #244237)
Subject: Re: Snax's Musky painting in progress





Posts: 551


Location: Columbus, Georgia
Mike,

Your painting is fabulous. If it is for sale, please send me a PM.

No problem with your retention of all reprint and/or publication rights.

Thanks,
Craig

Edited by cjrich 3/12/2007 12:50 PM
Musky Dawg
Posted 3/12/2007 4:08 PM (#244299 - in reply to #241231)
Subject: Re: Snax's Musky painting in progress




Posts: 101


Mike,
Just wanted to comment on how awesome a painting that is. I love the detail, and wish I could do something like that with my hands. I actually just finished painting my first lure this afternoon, and I think I've seen better paint jobs on hot wheels cars.
Just my opinion, but I think they reason MHM wasn't interested in it was partly due to the fact that it is a sucker in it's mouth and not a lure. Not that they strictly print lure painting, but the maj. of them are. Another reason could be that they have some sort of deal worked out with the other artists, and couldn't do it due to a contract or something of that nature.
Once again, GREAT WORK, and I think it would look great gracing the cover of any fishing related magazine!
~Dawg
Musky Snax
Posted 3/12/2007 5:02 PM (#244304 - in reply to #241231)
Subject: Re: Snax's Musky painting in progress





Posts: 680


Location: Muskoka Ontario,Canada
Thanks Dawg! I agree that the painting might not be suitable for a cover due to the graphic nature of the poor sucker being chewed! I have decided not to paint muskies with lures in their mouths and I have chosen to paint them as they exist in nature. I find that image far more enjoyable as the fish is free and not interacting with man. That being said, I do have a concept in mind for my next one which will have a fisherman in it but he doesn't have the musky on his line...She's just swimming up to the side of the boat as the fisherman is reeling in her intended prey! That one will be about an angler having an encounter with the "Queen"! The record breaking musky of lore showing herself but elusively not committing to a strike. How does that sound?
allen
Posted 3/13/2007 8:07 AM (#244412 - in reply to #241231)
Subject: RE: Snax's Musky painting in progress


the tail and the color in general
Musky Snax
Posted 3/13/2007 8:11 AM (#244413 - in reply to #244412)
Subject: RE: Snax's Musky painting in progress





Posts: 680


Location: Muskoka Ontario,Canada
allen - 3/13/2007 9:07 AM

the tail and the color in general


The tail was one of the weaker parts of the painting but I basically faded it into the murky water so it shouldn't really detract from it now. The color of the overall painting was done to look like the murky particle filled water of the Moira River in Central Ontario.

I do appreciate the fact that you are being specific with your observations and I thank you for your input.
Musky Dawg
Posted 3/13/2007 8:40 PM (#244637 - in reply to #241231)
Subject: Re: Snax's Musky painting in progress




Posts: 101


I agree with the natural part, and you did nail that. I thought the color theme was odd oo for a sec. though, but dismissed it on the "natural" appeal.
Big Perc
Posted 3/14/2007 6:15 AM (#244676 - in reply to #241231)
Subject: Re: Snax's Musky painting in progress




Posts: 1188


Location: Iowa
Mike,
I don't care what anybody says to you...you truly have a talent that speaks volumes above you posts...this painting is awesome and is definetly better than some of the paintings that end up on the cover of Muskyhunter each issue...I look forward to seeing it there soon...keep up the great work...

Big Perc
mmclain6101
Posted 3/14/2007 8:33 AM (#244709 - in reply to #241231)
Subject: Re: Snax's Musky painting in progress




Posts: 107


Location: Mayer, MN
looks amazing, just like your baits!
Guest
Posted 3/14/2007 8:36 AM (#244712 - in reply to #244413)
Subject: RE: Snax's Musky painting in progress


You're a better painter than I am, but I'm afraid I agree that it's not front cover worthy. Here are the specific reasons:

1) The background lacks sharpness and detail. You explain that the water is murky, and that's fine; but my point is that the painting itself is murky (like is has a screen or film over it) regardless of your reasons. There are a number of examples of murky water paintings out there that you could look at and potentially learn from. In Mark Susinno's "On the Figure Eight" the water is tan in color. It reminds me of LOTWs, which is somewhat clear but not perfectly clear most of the time. In the painting, the color of the water is displayed in the background and the appearance of the branches below the fish helps me understand that the water is not perfectly clear. But the color of the water certainly doesn't overwhelm the painting, which to me makes it very well done.

2) The suckers look silly between their overly detailed mouths and giant fins. I would guess that you focused too much on painting those features which detracted from the high level appearance. If that's the case, I'd suggest concentrating on painting the whole fish and leaving some of that detail (especially the mouths) out.

3) The head and "torso" of the musky look good. So does the pectoral fin. I agree with the comments on the tail. Also, the fish overall doesn't look all that natural. It looks like a musky sticker that was placed onto a muddled background rather than like it belongs in the painting. I'd suggest working on "flow" with your next painting.

You're a talented amateur airbrush painter, but it doesn't seem like you are being honest with yourself about your skill level. I also think it would be exceedingly difficult to do a painting with an airbrush that looks truly realistic. Airbrush work in general always seems fuzzy or hazy, much like this painting.

I hope this constructive criticism is helpful. Keep at it and HAVE FUN!
mmclain6101
Posted 3/14/2007 8:40 AM (#244714 - in reply to #241231)
Subject: Re: Snax's Musky painting in progress




Posts: 107


Location: Mayer, MN
It's funny how "guests" have such a critical opinion, they must have not seen your baits. Amateur I think not.
Muskie-kid
Posted 3/14/2007 9:25 AM (#244724 - in reply to #241231)
Subject: Re: Snax's Musky painting in progress





Posts: 87


wow guest u take the fun out of everything
Musky Snax
Posted 3/14/2007 9:46 AM (#244728 - in reply to #241231)
Subject: Re: Snax's Musky painting in progress





Posts: 680


Location: Muskoka Ontario,Canada
Interesting observations "Guest". If you could log in and let us know your credentials it would certainly help in my taking advice from you. I never made any claims as to being a "professional" at this type of painting. Just to clearify, I AM a professional at painting lures for a living which is what I am known best for and also why Iwata-Medea asked me to do some how-to articles for them.

The overall look of the painting was calculated and purposeful. Look at all the photos from the beginning of the thread and see the evolution and layering. I wanted that murky river water and I achieved what I envisioned in my mind with the final result. You made some references about the suckers looking "silly". The fins are large on the suckers because that's how they look on the real fish. Do you even know what variety of Suckers they are? The mouth on the Sucker that is being eaten is not overly detailed compared with the rest of its body and the others are toned down to not take away from the focal point of the painting.

Art is subjective and honestly, I've seen far less realistic images grace the cover of quite a number of magazines which is why I thought abou submiting this one. It would seem that there are a number of others who agree.

If any of what you said actually had any merit to it, and I knew that you had any clue what you are talking about, I would certainly take it into consideration. The painting is what it is and I'm quite pleased with the overall tone and mood of it. I didn't want the background to be sharp. I wanted it exactly the way it is.

Edited by Musky Snax 3/14/2007 9:54 AM
Musky Snax
Posted 3/14/2007 9:53 AM (#244730 - in reply to #241231)
Subject: Re: Snax's Musky painting in progress





Posts: 680


Location: Muskoka Ontario,Canada
I also meant to add that objects viewed underwater (at least in the Moira River) ARE fuzzy and hazy which is exactly why the airbrush is the PERFECT tool for this type of painting! It is very simple to get sharp details with an airbrush using frisket and masking which I also utilized for some of the features. I also used a sponge and acrylic paint to add the algae on the log to the right. I use multi media to get the result I want. I'm not stuck with using just one tool or another.

I find it amusing also that your first comment was that you are not as good a painter as I am. Now why on earth then, would I take advice from you! lol If Mark Sussino himself logged in and gave me some tips, I'd be sure to listen and learn.
Musky Snax
Posted 3/14/2007 10:03 AM (#244734 - in reply to #244730)
Subject: Re: Snax's Musky painting in progress





Posts: 680


Location: Muskoka Ontario,Canada
Since I want to make sure that there is no doubting that I actually know what I'm talking about, I'll attach some of the reference photos I used in developing the painting. These were used to gain insights into how light and particles actually look. Then I created my own version of that reality. Here are some of the images I used...


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Attachments dscn1654.jpg (54KB - 199 downloads)
Attachments image2006-d200-2076.jpg (49KB - 197 downloads)
Attachments image.2004e0158.jpg (61KB - 209 downloads)
Attachments image2006-d200-4918.jpg (32KB - 176 downloads)
Attachments dscn2273.jpg (75KB - 241 downloads)
Muskie-kid
Posted 3/14/2007 10:05 AM (#244735 - in reply to #241231)
Subject: Re: Snax's Musky painting in progress





Posts: 87


snax the painting is great dont lisson to "Guest" and plus it was your first painting and everyone else is inpressed
Reelwise
Posted 3/14/2007 10:08 AM (#244736 - in reply to #241231)
Subject: RE: Snax's Musky painting in progress




Posts: 1636


Looks pretty realistic to me...


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Attachments image15.jpg (16KB - 216 downloads)
Attachments image6.jpg (15KB - 210 downloads)
Musky Snax
Posted 3/14/2007 10:10 AM (#244738 - in reply to #241231)
Subject: Re: Snax's Musky painting in progress





Posts: 680


Location: Muskoka Ontario,Canada
One technique that I do want to master is how the light beams reflect on the bottom and on rocks etc. That is one of many items that I am working on improving. Also I want to learn how to do motion blurring to give the sense of motion. I don't think I'm any where near the level of Mark Sussino or Charles Weiss but I have my own style and the drive to keep on improving.
Loggin in and being a man about posting comments will give you far more credibility with me and likely with everyone else who reads it.
Guest
Posted 3/14/2007 12:33 PM (#244760 - in reply to #244738)
Subject: Re: Snax's Musky painting in progress


Why should you listen? Because you asked for an honest evaluation from the gallery.

I'm sorry if you found it to be offensive. But at least two other people (including Musky Hunter Magazine) agree with me. You've gotten two negative comments and have been extremely defensive both times. If you only wanted positive feedback you should have said so. I genuinely think that if you took my comments into serious consideration you would create a better painting next time around, and it was my legitimate intent to help you improve.

Anyway, what do I care? How about this: Your painting is awesome and I love it. If you ever want to sell it, please post it at auction here so I can bid on it. You are very talented and I don't care what MHM says. We should start a petition to get you on the cover!

So explain to me, how does that last paragraph help you become a better painter?
Musky Snax
Posted 3/14/2007 12:51 PM (#244762 - in reply to #241231)
Subject: Re: Snax's Musky painting in progress





Posts: 680


Location: Muskoka Ontario,Canada
Once again you've failed to log in and say who you are and what your credentials are regarding art composition. I do appreciate the fact that you have posted your observations and believe it or not I always prefer honest feedback rather than people feeding my ego. What I posted was a detailed explanation of why the painting looks the way it does as well as some of the photos which I used as a reference for murky water. In one of the photos you can barely see 10 feet which is the look I wanted to achieve. I just happen to disagree with the points that you made and I also pointed out afterwards some of the things that I want to improve upon. Art by nature is very personal and if I feel I need to explain why things look the way they do I'll be happy to do so.

Your post came across as an anonymous person trying to stir the pot. If you have a background as a professional artist please let us know who you are so we can check out your work and perhaps learn from you.
Guest
Posted 3/14/2007 1:06 PM (#244763 - in reply to #244762)
Subject: Re: Snax's Musky painting in progress


Well, for what it's worth I appreciate your last post. I'm not a professional artist. I'm not even an amateur artist. You should feel free to take my comments with a grain of salt.
Musky Snax
Posted 3/14/2007 1:23 PM (#244766 - in reply to #241231)
Subject: Re: Snax's Musky painting in progress





Posts: 680


Location: Muskoka Ontario,Canada
It's the anonymity factor that gets me (and others) to question the things you posted and not necessarily what you had to say. You've pointed out that you really have no art training or apparent painting ability which is why it's a good idea to log in so folks know who they are taking advice from. Now what if everything you suggested happened to be incorrect? I'm not saying it was ,but if I want to learn how to improve my painting abilities, I would benefit from actual artists who do this type of work right?

If I come across as overly defensive, I apologize for that. My work is very personal and I'm a perfectionist at heart but not yet in ability. With hard work, I hope to achieve that goal in the future. Only time will tell. By all means LOG IN and comment all you want and I'll be happy to take what you say with the grain of salt.
Big Perc
Posted 3/14/2007 1:27 PM (#244768 - in reply to #241231)
Subject: Re: Snax's Musky painting in progress




Posts: 1188


Location: Iowa
I have one question to ask all you "guest" people out there...you think you could do better?...bottom line...put up or shut up!...there is constructive criticism and then there is just plain jealousy...sounds more like jealousy to me...

Keep up the great work Mike...don't let those who can't do what you do get under your skin...you have some of the best paint jobs I have ever seen on those photos you posted justify you painting...can't wait to see it on the cover of Muskyhunter...

Big Perc
RiverMan
Posted 3/14/2007 4:33 PM (#244811 - in reply to #241231)
Subject: Re: Snax's Musky painting in progress




Posts: 1504


Location: Oregon
Not that it matters much but I was raised by parents that loved art, western art mostly, and they filled the house with paintings and various sculptures. Some of the paintings were very accurate and done by what are now quite famous artists. As I grew up I learned to look very carefully at art of all kinds.

Beyond tracing around my hand and fingers and making a "turkey" I can't paint a thing on canvas but I do think I have a good eye for what's "accurate". My point being that I don't think you have to be an artist to recognize "good art".
I honestly think the painting Mike did is quite good, particularly given the fact that he hasn't done many of them. Mike acknowledges that the painting has its weaknesses but it also has many strengths. And lets face it, no matter how good you are there will always be those that don't like it for one reason or another.

If you enjoy it keep at it Mike, after 500 of them you will be doing some unbelievable stuff.

jed v.

Edited by RiverMan 3/14/2007 4:43 PM
Musky Snax
Posted 3/14/2007 5:07 PM (#244817 - in reply to #241231)
Subject: Re: Snax's Musky painting in progress





Posts: 680


Location: Muskoka Ontario,Canada
I do indeed enjoy it Jed and I strive to be any where near as good as those who I admire. My painting for sure has things which can be improved upon and I look at it often and really scrutinize it. What is hard to do is to know when to stop and leave it be. It can drive you nuts picking apart every little thing which believe me, I do. I told myself that once I got it to where I felt I'd captured what was in my mind to put down the airbrush and step away. Thanks again for all the comments, good and bad and I will try to make the next one even better.

Edited by Musky Snax 3/14/2007 5:07 PM
Billy B
Posted 3/14/2007 5:55 PM (#244825 - in reply to #241231)
Subject: Re: Snax's Musky painting in progress




Posts: 267


Location: Ft. Wayne, Indiana
Snax, i have noticed that many of the cover paintings on musky hunter have the fish going after a bait that sponsors the magazine. Like a bulldawg or suick or salmo, etc...
just my 2 cents
BTW great job on the painting, hope to see many more.

Edited by Billy B 3/14/2007 5:56 PM
Musky Snax
Posted 3/14/2007 6:09 PM (#244828 - in reply to #241231)
Subject: Re: Snax's Musky painting in progress





Posts: 680


Location: Muskoka Ontario,Canada
I agree that there is definitely more to getting a cover than just being a good artist. I didn't take it personally that this particular one wasn't something that they would use. My intention was to create something worthy of being on a cover with the hopes of it actually making it. So far so good in my quest and you'd better believe that I'll take all comments into consideration. I'm new to actually doing paintings such as this but I've studied the works of many other artists for years and years. I can remember drooling over Larry Tople's covers on the In-Fisherman magazines when I was a kid.
I also read a ton of books on painting techniques and subscribe to Airbrush Action Magazine. I really enjoy learning and applying each new lesson to something I've created.

Edited by Musky Snax 3/14/2007 6:11 PM
butterwheels
Posted 3/14/2007 6:41 PM (#244843 - in reply to #241231)
Subject: Re: Snax's Musky painting in progress





Posts: 143


Overall, I like it. I will say that you may have gone a tad overboard with the light effects, which causes the background to appear 'washed out' to me. now, from what you've said (i didn't read it all, i skimmed) it seems that's what you were going for, trying to replicate waters in your area. i like what you did in the foreground on the lower right, and also on the left side of the fish. but it seems that the upper part of the painting gets lost in what you attempted with the sunlight. your focus is supposed to be the fish, but something like that can detract from the piece as a whole.

all in all, that is a fine painting for your first. underwater presents an interesting challenge, cause there are so many different elements to it - what do you include/leave out? i have no doubt future efforts will be even better...i've seen your baits. the airbrush does give it a very cool effect, and that will only improve. i'm starting to think i may take up painting again...oil though. me + airbrush = fail.

also, the suckers don't look silly at all.
Musky Snax
Posted 3/14/2007 6:46 PM (#244844 - in reply to #241231)
Subject: Re: Snax's Musky painting in progress





Posts: 680


Location: Muskoka Ontario,Canada
Excellent observations and I agree with all of them. I did go for a very dramatic sunbeam effect (As seen in one of the reference shots) but it could have been done with more subtlety. Thanks for your input.
RiverMan
Posted 3/14/2007 8:16 PM (#244861 - in reply to #241231)
Subject: Re: Snax's Musky painting in progress




Posts: 1504


Location: Oregon
I think he's right Mike, that's the problem, it should have had a Turmoil in its mouth!!!

jed v.
Musky Snax
Posted 3/14/2007 8:33 PM (#244864 - in reply to #241231)
Subject: Re: Snax's Musky painting in progress





Posts: 680


Location: Muskoka Ontario,Canada
Dang it! I KNEW something was missing!
GbayGiant
Posted 3/16/2007 11:47 PM (#245308 - in reply to #241231)
Subject: RE: Snax's Musky painting in progress


Hey Snax you should have put a line on that sucker anyway it looks like your gliders any who. lol.

But really, paint 10 or 20 more and eventually they will like one, if not I'm purty sure they have their own agenda with the sponsors. The lure on the covers tend to be the centre of attraction if you know what I'm saying.

I wouldn't be upset, that would be like me painting my first lure and it wasn't as nice as yours are. Either way you'll have the paintings hanging at home to show your progress over time.

And yes I am a guest. I'll sign up later, GbayGiant is my handle on other sites though.

Snax I'm just down the road north of Parry Sound where the monsters swim.

John.
sworrall
Posted 3/17/2007 4:46 AM (#245312 - in reply to #245308)
Subject: RE: Snax's Musky painting in progress





Posts: 32977


Location: Rhinelander, Wisconsin
Snax, that's beautiful work. We'd be happy to feature it on OUR cover, anytime.
woodieb8
Posted 3/17/2007 5:23 AM (#245314 - in reply to #241231)
Subject: Re: Snax's Musky painting in progress




Posts: 1530


snax very well done. thru the years all i could draw was un-employment. insurance.
Musky Snax
Posted 3/17/2007 7:39 AM (#245320 - in reply to #245312)
Subject: RE: Snax's Musky painting in progress





Posts: 680


Location: Muskoka Ontario,Canada
sworrall - 3/17/2007 5:46 AM

Snax, that's beautiful work. We'd be happy to feature it on OUR cover, anytime.


If you are serious about that offer, you have my permission...and then some! lol
By the way, my buddy Tigger will be recieving the Bluegill that we are donating to MuskieFirst soon. I painted one side and he's going to work his incredible artistry to the other. This bait is also featured in one of the how-to articles on the Iwata-Medea website.
The first two basic articles are up and the others will be coming soon. I'll add the link once the others articles including the Bluegill are on the site in a few days.
Smokin Joe
Posted 3/17/2007 8:12 AM (#245324 - in reply to #241231)
Subject: RE: Snax's Musky painting in progress




Posts: 311


Snax, Looks great, keep up the good work!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
rjbass
Posted 3/18/2007 10:12 AM (#245458 - in reply to #245324)
Subject: RE: Snax's Musky painting in progress





Posts: 179


Location: Sault Ste. Marie, Michigan
Snax,

You shouldn't even worry or for that matter answer this so called "guest's" comments....obviously he is someone that is just trying to be derogatory about everything. He makes BS comments about everyone who posts. It's pretty easy to be tough on line.....

I think your painting is great, especially for your first one. Your talent speaks for itself. Keep up the great, inspiring work.

Rod
fatfingers
Posted 3/18/2007 1:18 PM (#245477 - in reply to #241231)
Subject: RE: Snax's Musky painting in progress




Posts: 351


For what its worth, I have been around art for much my life. My brother is an airbrush artist and by that I do not mean he's a hobbyist. He makes a six-figure living doing it and hanging around with him when he's on the phone is like listening to a who's who list of nationally recognized artists from all over America, Canada, and elsewhere.

Its funny that you mention the airbrush magazine you read regularly, Snax. He writes for them and has taught classes for them and others. His videos on airbrushing and pinstriping are for sale in that particular magazine, if I recall correctly. (I prefer not to reveal his name, because in doing so, I reveal mine and that's sometimes a bad idea, but I wish I could post his website, because his work will absolutely knock your socks off.)

Now that doesn't make my opinion worth more or less than anyone else's because art is by nature subjective and opinion's are like bellybuttons, everyone has one. But I've got to say it takes a lot of stones to not only put your first attempt on this website and ask for opinions good or bad, but to go ahead and actually try to get it published on the cover of a relatively well-known periodical. I admire that type of ambition very much and I think your painting was very good.

That type of airbrush work is very different that shading, fading, and squirting scales on a piece of wood. It requires a feel for scale on a much larger level and a knowledge of how to get detail from your head to the canvas. No easy task and you can't easily start over.

My brother and I often discuss the dilemma you mentioned about knowing where and when to "stop." He's made his living with brushes, an airbrush, and paint, and to this day he still wrestles with that question on every single piece he works on.

Keep at it, Snax, and take what you can from it. It'll only make your lures better.
Grunt Lures
Posted 3/18/2007 1:45 PM (#245480 - in reply to #241231)
Subject: Re: Snax's Musky painting in progress





Posts: 786


Location: Minnesota
I scuba some and it looks just like the real thing to me! Never seen a muskie eat but have seen some. Will be diving Waconia this spring. If I can rent a camera I will to get some shots if I seen any fishies for you.

Great work SNAX! I would be happy to have that on my wall at work or home.

James

Edited by Grunt Lures 3/18/2007 1:46 PM
Musky Snax
Posted 3/18/2007 2:18 PM (#245483 - in reply to #241231)
Subject: Re: Snax's Musky painting in progress





Posts: 680


Location: Muskoka Ontario,Canada
Thanks Fatfingers,

I am sure I could figure out who your brother is from your description but I'd never reveal it publicly. You are correct in saying that it takes some big "stones" to do my first painting and hope for a cover in the biggest Musky publication. That's just the way I do things since my younger brother passed away. I go for what I want all the way. If I fail, I just do it better the next time. There's no harm in trying and wanting to get better every time out.

I went from being a complete new kid on the block in fall of 2005 to being a bait maker who's influence can be seen in most of the gliders we see being made today. I'm of course referring to the carved details, fishy shapes and lifelike detailed paint jobs. That's not being boastful, just stating the facts. The others that came before me influenced me in the same way and I just took it to a higher level.

The only way to succeed in life or at this type of thing is to believe in yourself and to put your money where your mouth is. So far it has served me very well. Thanks again everyone for all your comments and suggestions. You'll see them expressed in my future work.

Edited by Musky Snax 3/18/2007 2:35 PM
LeMay
Posted 3/19/2007 6:12 AM (#245613 - in reply to #241231)
Subject: Re: Snax's Musky painting in progress





Posts: 106


Location: Michigan
That comment was very well put Snax.
Musky Snax
Posted 3/23/2007 6:42 AM (#246738 - in reply to #245613)
Subject: Re: Snax's Musky painting in progress





Posts: 680


Location: Muskoka Ontario,Canada
Hey folks, I just finished a new painting which doesn't feature any fish but was done to try to get a grasp of doing the backgrounds we see in many musky paintings. No where near perfect for sure but I sure had fun trying new techniques out. I really utilized the control of my newer Iwata Micron and Hi-Line airbrushes in doing this piece. In particular the mist drifting across the darker areas where tricky to do without that added control.

When you see the actual painting, the sun and sunbeams are done with a pearlescent paint that really "shines". Cool effect that will look great when applied to the underwater scenes I prefer to paint.

Edited by Musky Snax 3/23/2007 6:45 AM



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(P1010677 (Medium).JPG)



Attachments
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Attachments P1010677 (Medium).JPG (47KB - 213 downloads)