References for this mixed media drawing were photographs and a specimen in Lucite, which can be seen below. The photograph really doesn't do it justice, in reality it is a lot more vibrant.
After sketching out the beetle, I decided on which media I wanted to use; Rembrandt watercolours, Caran d'Ache watersoluble pencils, Faber-castell polychromos colour pencils and the micron pigma brush for black details. After making a few swatches for the combination of different media, I started blocking in some of the really black parts. then I added a watercolour wash, working on the vibrant colours.
After the watercolour, some additional colour nuances and details were added with watersoluble pencil. Then I went in with the polychromos, which have these beautiful strong colours. Some more final touches with the micron pen and the final result can be seen below.
Limited edition prints of the rose chafer were made. Interested in purchasing a print? Go to my webshop by clicking on the button below.
