Warrior Woman and Griffin

This was a unique commission auction request. I've never drawn griffins before so that took some research. Research that involved figuring out how to draw a lion's body and a hawk's head and wings and make it look natural. I'm thankful the reference shots I found were just what I needed. Because the client's wife was a Harry Potter fan, I also threw in the Gryffindor crest, but used liquid gel to clandestinely show the decoration around the shield concealed in shadow. The background needed to compliment the amount of earth tones I incorporated, so a sunset was in order. Admittedly I wish the copics blended better on this choice of setting, but I'm pleased with the overcast skies. Etched on 11 x 14" Etson and mixed media, this was truthfully a learning curve for me and I sincerely hope its recipient is pleased with the results.