Scratching Log - Honoring Contest Fan Artists - Rachel McCoy

Rachel McCoy is the next artist to take her place on the sunning rock's seat of honor. The first feature that strikes me about "My Creature" the striking composition.  The sweeping line that runs along Ratha's extended forepaw, around her shoulder and along her back, down her tail to the lashing tail-tip, giving the piece a fierce motion. 
 
 From her answer to the coffee or hot chocolate question (she mixes both, as I do)  I can see that she was definitely mocha-vated to create this amazing work.  /CB

Your name: Rachel McCoy

Your age: 21

Title of your entry: My Creature

What media did you use for this artwork?  Digital

Tell us a little about your process for creating this work.

The piece I entered into the contest was created completely in Adobe Photoshop CS5. Everything from the "ground-up" as it were: I first sketched the piece and worked with the pose until I was happy with it. Next came very fine, thin line art. It was colored last, then carefully tweaked with filters in Photoshop to get the look I wanted.

What inspired the work, and/or what were you trying to convey?

I tried to work with what I knew from reading the books and what I saw in Ratha's personality: she was such a fierce, strong character. I had to capture that look in her eyes, and I knew the picture wouldn't be complete without the titular "Creature" as well.

When did you first read the Named books, and how did you discover them?

I first read the Named books this year! Only about a month before learning about the contest, in fact. I had heard about them before, but let them slip from my mind until I discovered them at the local library. I picked them up, started reading, and couldn't put them down!

What's your favorite book in the Named series?

Ratha and Thistle-Chaser - but I admit I haven't read all of the books yet.

Coffee or hot chocolate? Both. Mixed together!

Ereader or print? Print.

Firekeeper or Herder? Herder.

Thakur or Bonechewer? Thakur.

Ratha or Thistle-Chaser? Thistle-Chaster.

Do you have a link where people can view more of your artwork?

Yes. I have a gallery on deviantART located at: http://amritha.deviantart.com I also have one other Ratha-related doodle there: http://Amritha.deviantart.com/art/Ratha-Doodle-212679084 -Rachel McCoy