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Artist Angela Wang (aka awanqi) shows how to compose figures from mythology using symbology coupled with a sense of refinement

- Angela Wang

Illustration is driven by storytelling, and stories are built up with certain artistic “building blocks” such as motifs, symbolism, gestures, poses and so on. In this workshop I want to express the characteristics of the Greek gods Hypnos and Thanatos, using colour to set the tone, lighting to direct the focus of the story and more, all while retaining their personalities. As with many of the gods from antiquity, certain symbols are associated with each one. They’re specific enough to enable the viewer to identify them using a single icon.

I’ll be explaining the processes I use to create an illustration, as well as giving tips and techniques that I find useful to my artistic practice. Since many of the symbols have already been established throughout history, as an artist I’m able to use my preferences and abilities to piece together a new story from these older structures.

In my effort to create a memorable piece of art that’s also recognisable to those familiar with the mythological figures, simplicity is the key to understanding what’s taking place in the piece. Therefore, I’ve chosen to illustrate universal symbols for what each god represents. This makes my job as an artist easier, and also enables the viewer to quickly grasp the theme of my artwork.

1 Testing out my ideas

When coming up with a sketch, I’m less concerned with the aesthetics of neat lines. I usually start with straighter and more rigid lines that are borne out of quick movements, because I’ve found that this helps me to decide if I’m on the right track. I don’t want to waste time guessing what I’ve just drawn.