“Aging And The Brain” illo for U. of Miami

This illustration accompanies an article that discusses strategies for maintaining and extending cognitive longevity as one ages. Exercise, diet, and intellectual activities are important components in staying sharp. The art director, Scott Fricker, wanted an image that stressed these strategies. He specifically asked for distressed textures, a favorite technique of mine, but without appearing dark or ominous. Probably the most frequently asked question from art directors over the years has been, “ I really like your work, but can you make it less dark?” I felt I struck a pretty good balance here. Below are the two rough sketches presented.


CLIENT: UNIVERSITY OF MIAMI (FL)
ART DIRECTOR: SCOTT FRICKER

Work In Progess: “Seen The Glory” book cover

In this Civil War novel, by John S. Hough, Jr., two teenage brothers leave the relative comforts of their Martha's Vineyard home to join the Union Army, ultimately leading to their participation in the notoriously bloody Battle of Gettysburg. Meticulously researched, the book provides a riveting look at both military life and the societal conflicts that marked the period.

Below are the original sketches, and above are three versions of the finished artwork. This one is still pending approval. At one point, as the various props were arriving at our house, my wife said to me, “Please tell me you didn't buy that musket.” No, just rented.



CLIENT: SIMON AND SCHUSTER
ART DIRECTOR: MICHAEL ACCORDINO