Eastern Shore Wildlife | Blue Crab

I grew up on the Eastern Shore of Maryland. Here the most accepted and popular subject for artwork is that of the local wildlife, often accompanied by  or within an idyllic landscape. As an adolescent I rejected this type of artwork altogether and with only a couple exceptions I stuck to that. Currently however I'm working on a graphic novel, written and illustrated by me, that inadvertently has returned me to the Eastern Shore where I'm confronted with that very subject matter.

In preparation for the artwork of the project I wanted to experiment both with that subject matter as well as how I might approach the look of the artwork. The most well-known of all animal life in Maryland is of course the blue crab and that's what we have here. It was surprisingly enjoyable  working on this drawing, as well as the couple others that will follow this one. This honestly is also quite a relief considering they'll be making their appearance in my graphic novel.

This drawing is a combination of charcoal, graphite, black India ink, and white gouache.

​Hope you enjoy

- D