Dragon Obsession – The Visual Files

Meet Pete!

This little guy is the newest addition to my collection. I have so many dragon and fairy figurines that I won’t buy anymore unless they really strike me (mostly because I’m running out of room – lol). I generally veer away from anything that is either purple or orange (because I’m weird and I just don’t like those colors) so it’s a testament to just how cute I thought he was that I bought him anyway. He’s not the only one in my collection featuring an egg, but he is the only one with an egg that I actually like (come to think of it, I should probably get rid of the other one…).

Featured in the background are two of my favorite dragon books: Dragon Weather by Lawrence Watt – Evans and Dragon Champion by E.E. Knight.

May 10 2013

Image

Dragon Obsession – The Visual Files

Cadmus and the Dragon of Ares

by Ciruelo

I’ll admit that the first couple of times I saw this painting I didn’t even notice the dragon – that sense of discovery I felt when I finally saw it is probably why this is one of my favorites. Not only is it visually stunning, but it evokes in me feelings of everything I love about dragons and fantasy, indicating that magic is all around us even when we aren’t aware of it. The inspiration from this photo is actually the starting point from which I developed a new breed of forest-dwelling dragons in the novel I’m working on. It always gets me in the mood to write when I see it.

My Dragon Obsession files would not have been complete without this one, and it probably won’t be the last Ciruelo picture I post, either – he has some of the best dragon paintings out there. This is the book I snagged it from:

Apr 4 2013

Image

Dragon Obsession – The Visual Files

Ciruelo Dragon Art

Taken from www.fantasygalleryart.com this Ciruelo print has always been one of my favorites. I love the blend of colors for the sky and the rock and I love the little castle in the distant. My favorite element (obviously) is the dragon, particularly the obsidian scales and the pointed shape of its head. Ciruelo has some of the best life-like dragon paintings out there, so I knew my Dragon Obsession list wouldn’t be complete without at least one of his prints.

For a great compilation of his paintings, check out:

Title: The Book of Dragons

Author: Ciruelo

Overview: They lurk in the most hidden corners of the world: the powerful and beautiful creatures known as dragons. We know them as the terrifying beasts of fairy tales, but their own story has remained a mystery–until now. Ciruelo, an illustrator of astounding skill, delves into their secret universe, revealing a rich and fascinating culture filled with poetry, magic, enchantment, and knowledge. Each of these wondrous creatures has its own unique personality and history, and it’s captured dramatically on these spectacular pages. But the revelations go beyond the images, as we gain insight into their psychological characteristics; encounter many different types (Earth Dragons, Water Dragons, Fire Dragons, and the legendary Golden Dragon); learn about their long-held customs; and explore the many legends in which they have figured so prominently–including the heroic tales of Perseus, Hercules, and Tristan.

Mar 28 2013

Image

Dragon Obsession – The Visual Files

Meet Lem and Bartholomew (Bart for short)!

One of my newest pieces, this duo was just what I needed to add the edge back into my collection (I went on a fairy figuring buying splurge… long story). I love it because of the fine detail work, specifically in the dragon’s face. You see, I’m really picky when it comes to dust-collectors. They have to look somewhat lifelike or I pass them by. Usually, you have to pay top dollar for this type of quality, but I snagged it for a fairly reasonable price (which I can’t remember exactly, but it was well under $40). They fit right in to my aesthetic and are really attention-grabbers. They have also been known to startle unsuspecting visitors when they enter my library (including my poor mom). It’s good to keep people on their toes.

Mar 21 2013

Dragon Obsession – The Visual Files

Book Covers 101

Illustrated by Michael Whelan, this images appears on the cover of Skybowl by Melanie Rawn (Dragon Star #3). For the longest time, it was my favorite book cover, and I’ve lost count of the number of times I’ve tried to recreate it; colored pencil, acrylic, watercolor – you name it (they all sucked lol). It wasn’t until recently that I noticed the dragon looks a bit like the giant cockroach alien on Men in Black… Takes away a little of the appeal, know?

For what it’s worth, this is the final book in a fairly decent series of two trilogies (overall 3/5 stars). The first book is Dragon Prince, and I think they’re worthwhile reads provided you’ve already read the other excellent dragon titles out there (see Niki’s Best Book Bulletin: Dragons!).

Mar 14 2013

Dragon Obsession: The Visual Files

The Crescent Moon Dragon!

This is by-far the funnest project I’ve ever worked on – so much so that I actually finished it! Four years of inconsistent work and a smidge of carpel-tunnel later, I now have a gorgeous piece of pride hanging in my library.

For what it’s worth, here’s some information on the book:

Title: Bewitching Cross Stitch

Author: Joan Elliot

Genre: Crafts/Hobbies

Rating: 5/5 stars!!

The Overview: Cross stitchers will be bewitched by this original collection of fantasy-inspired designs from one of the cross stitch world’s favorite designers, Joan Elliott. Fans of fantasy will love this collection of imaginative designs, including wizards, witches, dragons and pixies—all intricately brought to life with luxurious metallic threads and glittering beads. Projects include enchanting cards, gift bags keepsakes, framed pictures, and more.

The Review: Best book ever! There are at least a dozen projects in here that I’m going to do, and that’s rare for a pattern book (all the other ones I own have 2, maybe 3 projects I like). The fantasy subject matter is right up my alley, and the vibrant color variety keeps me interested in the pattern. The finished product speaks for itself! :)