Northcote Entranceway
Entrance to Northcote
I've just had the delightful experience of completing a small commission for Northcote’s, a charming establishment nestled not too far from my home in the enchanting Forest of Bowland. Northcote is a prestigious Michelin-starred restaurant and hotel, exuding elegance and nestled amidst lush grounds.
As I embarked on this artistic journey, I knew I had the unique opportunity to capture the rich history and lovely architecture of this 143-year-old building, which was once a private dwelling. The task entrusted to me was to create an exquisite illustration of the building's entranceway, to be featured on their marketing materials and cherished by their loyal supporters on Patreon.
Detailed arch of the Northcote entrance
To ensure meticulous attention to detail, I began by taking high-resolution reference photos and storing them in Lightroom. With the prospect of the illustration heading straight to printers, I opted for a digital approach, selecting a pressure-sensitive sketch brush to lay down the initial draft and ensure perfect perspective and composition.
With the foundation laid, I meticulously built layers of intricate details, employing hatching and thickened lines to infuse the artwork with character and depth. My focus was on accentuating the centre of the doorway and the captivating carvings that adorned it. I even went back to age some of the brickwork and elements of the artwork, carefully crafting a reflection of the building's historical charm.
The process of bringing this artistic vision to life was a labour of love, taking over 10 hours to complete the awe-inspiring illustration. Additionally, crafting the family coat of arms proved to be a delightful challenge, taking just under an hour to create a piece that embodied elegance and heritage, despite having fewer intricate details.
Finally, the files were carefully curated and exported into the agreed set of deliverables for the client. The final piece reflects not only the architectural splendour of Northcote’s but also the passion and dedication poured into its creation.
As an artist, having the privilege to contribute to such a prestigious establishment has been an enriching experience. The opportunity to celebrate the history and beauty of Northcote through my art is a true testament to the magic that emerges when creativity intertwines with cherished traditions. I'm grateful to have been part of this artistic journey, and I look forward to the joy my artwork brings to the patrons of Northcote and art enthusiasts alike.
You can view this work in my portfolio here.
Now I’m off for my summer break! Looking forward to indulging in some self-directed works and getting back to Sketchbook IG