Most of my artwork begins as a light pencil drawing, where I work out form, proportion, and expression before committing to a refined pencil sketch. Once the sketch feels right, I carefully go over the lines with pen and ink (Brush Pen), creating the structural foundation of the piece. This approach—strongly influenced by traditional animation and illustration practices—emphasizes observation, clarity of line, and thoughtful design. Whether the final artwork becomes a playful toon or a more refined illustration, it always begins with the same quiet, hands-on process.
The Process: Pencil Drawing → Refined Sketch → Brush Pen → Watercolor + Airbrush → Highlights → Finished Art
This video demonstrates the brush pen sketching method I use as the foundation of my artwork. This instruction is by Aaron Blaise, a major influence on my work and a former Disney animator (Beauty and the Beast, Brother Bear). His courses have played a key role in shaping how I create art.
.








SpiritLakeArt.com
Copyright © 2021Spirit Lake Art - All Rights Reserved.
Powered by GoDaddy

This is a Name Printable. (Request yours below.)
Stay in touch: If you’d like occasional notes from me, about my art and personal creative projects — including Spirit Lake Art, Names On Art. or Toons — you’re welcome to join my email list. To join, simply email Terry.SpiritLakeArt@gmail.com. Ask to join.
· Addresses are never shared · opt out anytime ·