I am independent author who took the time to illustrate my own cover for my debut novel. This is inspired by the Pegasos constellation.
Pegasos is an integral part of Medousa's story.
Dear kindred spirits,
Today, it's with immense joy that I share the cover illustration for my upcoming novel. I spent seven months creating this illustration. I worked hard to give my book a face that would capture the essence of the tale within.
Artistic Mediums
This is a multi-media illustration. The use of several materials adds depth to the drawing. I am happy with the way all three mediums came togehter to create a seamless final product.
Pen and Ink
First, I used pen and ink to create the horse and its feathers. I used only stippling. Look closely at the artwork--- there are no black lines, only dots. The ink dots add an ethereal element to the work. Stippling is, by far, the most time-consuming way to draw.
Watercolor
Watercolor provides most of the colors for this work. You can see the horse's gray body, navy shadows in the feathers, and a dark purple mane. All of this was created using watercolors. This is the first time I have used watercolor for a serious artistic project and I am very happy with it.
Metallic Markers
Metallurgy plays a huge role in the book, so this highlight means a lot to me. Silver constellations are hidden in the pastel blue fur on the arch of the stallion's neck and his chest. I created these using metallic markers. I hope they add a subtle touch, suggesting that Pharmakides may have celestial themes. I also used the metallic markers to create Pegasos' golden bridle, and a string of silver beads over his forelock. The metallic nature of this medium also ties in with themes of metallurgy in the novel.
Process
Each brush of color and every meticulously placed dot held a piece of my soul, a connection to the heart of Medousa's story.
As an artist and novelist, I believe that storytelling extends beyond words alone. The cover of a book is a portal, a glimpse into the world waiting to be discovered within its pages. It's a promise, a hint of the treasures that lie ahead. With this project, I wanted to craft a cover that invites you to step through the gates of imagination.
So, as I sign my name, Alice Abyss, beneath this labor of love, I hope that you will join me in celebrating the fusion of storytelling and art. Stay tuned, dear friends, for my novel. It will be released on Halloween. The adventure is just beginning, and I am thrilled to have you by my side.
Please feel free to judge my book by its cover with heartfelt creativity.
Wishing you magic-filled days ahead,
Alice Abyss
Author