knights in shining armour
I often get asked to create more art for boys. Having one of each I know that there seems to be more choice for girls when it comes to interiors, furnishings, fashion etc. So often my friends who have sons say how they hate all the skulls/spiderman/machoman/Thomas ugliness that swamps the shops. And I agree.
However, I really struggle with creating imagery for boys. I want to produce something that is simple, clean and different to the rest, but also something that evokes imagination and play. Currently I'm exploring toy soldiers and knights. Not by any means a new idea, but one that I haven't played with before. The release of Prince Caspian has sparked a few ideas in my head so I'm making an effort to satisfy a few requests. It is challenging not to be too illustrative and 'cartoonish.' Girl art for whatever reason just comes more easily!
Any suggestions?
Well done Tiel, I love these knights.
Lots of things that the boys seem drawn to have a scary element.
When my son was 2 I made him a quilt. It took me weeks to think of a theme that might age well with him. I settled on Space, as it has that whole exploration thing going on, without being too much like anything that is merchandised like a certain builder, or train.
Rory has now just turned 6 and discovered Star Wars, whcih he loves.
He also has quite a few knight themed toys (lego, figureines, dragons) which he loves, I think you are on the money with that one.
I also like the idea of spiders and bugs.
Posted by: Claire - Matching Pegs | June 16, 2008 at 12:12 PM
Stunning! I love them!
Posted by: Cherry Tree Lane | June 15, 2008 at 01:03 PM
they are great,and am sure would really be a hit with boys, lovely !
Posted by: norma | June 13, 2008 at 11:23 PM
they are great,and am sure would really be a hit with boys, lovely !
Posted by: norma | June 13, 2008 at 11:23 PM
they are great,and am sure would really be a hit with boys, lovely !
Posted by: norma | June 13, 2008 at 11:19 PM
Oh yes, the lack of wonderful boy stuff is a constant source of bafflement to me. In my experience, what makes or breaks the success of artwork with boy children is the context.
Girls seem to infer so much from the look of a character - the smile, the gaze, the posture. They can imagine a whole personality from these things. Wheras, I reckon boys could do with a little more prompting. It's all about the context, the background, the hidden details. Mine love the tiny clues about a character which you can infer from their surroundings - the discarded PJ's of the Knight, or the fact that under his armour he wears odd socks, or that the creature on his banner is a woodlouse.
There is a UK illustrator and author called David Melling who has some fantastic boy appeal characters and does the whole context thing beautifully.
I guess the bottom line is, girls tend to focus on people and boys tend to focus on stuff.
Just my thoughts - sorry it was a long comment.
Posted by: Ali | June 13, 2008 at 11:11 PM
what about a beach themed picture with surf board or sand castle with crab etc...boys love animals and creatures...??? Just a thought. I like what you have done though
xxx
Posted by: ShellBells | June 13, 2008 at 11:06 PM
I think prince and knight theme is a good one..it blends in history, romance and fantasy.
I have three girls, so the question is interesting...when I think of boy imagery I think of dinosaurs, transport vehicles, sailors, astronauts. But coming up with something which is not a stereotype is challenging. Gardener? Chef?
Posted by: Bird Bath | June 13, 2008 at 10:31 PM
These are really great! Adorable!
Posted by: Amy | June 13, 2008 at 10:20 PM
How about using Indiana Jones or Allan Quatermain as inspiration as well and make an adventure, archaeology or safari theme? :o)
Posted by: Miriam | June 13, 2008 at 07:16 PM
Owww I love Prince Caspian..and your little prince is cute too...I'd adopt him...
Posted by: Bianca | June 13, 2008 at 06:53 PM
I struggle with the same thing, I know there is a need for boy things but it is difficult to create something not cliche....but I think you did a great job and I'm looking forward too see more.....
Posted by: erika | June 13, 2008 at 06:16 PM
I love Prince Caspian from Narnia.
I think boys will love your creations!
I think the whiter face will do better for boys.
Curious to see what Prince Caspian will finally look like!
Posted by: nicolette | June 13, 2008 at 06:05 PM