GoldLeafGears

Leaf/Leif ◇ They/Them ◇ Artist & Character Design Enthusiast ◇ Rockhound & Hobbyist in Entomology ◇ Probably a Vampire -=◇=- ◇ Carrd ◇

[goldleafgears]

◇ 'To the Moon, and never back.' ◇

Respite after a hunt. A simple piece, but a better look at Beryl. Still figuring out Borzoi facial structure at different angles. Also another early concept for how Waeyrwolves will end up looking. Not entirely sure if I like the lined or lineless style for the growths more; though I do lean more towards the look achieved in the first piece.

Again this story and character are quite early in development, so visual elements here are subject to change.

-=◇=-

[goldleafgears]

◇ Panthera Uncia ◇

Result of a drawing challenge I suppose you could call it. Regardless, I've been meaning to practice felines. Additionally, I decided to go a little more experimental with this one. I've seen a few artists put together 'Inktober' posts that are greyscale aside from one pop of color. Usually gold or red I believe. Bright colors aren't really my style, but I love the pieces that use this technique, and I think it adds a nice contrast here.

-=◇=-

[goldleafgears]

◇ Forficula Auricularia ◇

Among the circles I have been within, I've found Earwigs to be a relatively under-appreciated insect. Though frequently in the position of a pest, Forficulidae are relatively harmless and occasionally beneficial. Beyond being the hunters of different crop pests, Earwigs harbor a fascinating ability. They've a unique set of wings that unfurl to a size that is ten-fold their starting scale; in a manner often compared to origami. An unassuming and overlooked insect with a shimmering set of intricate wings. This particular fella is a Common or European Earwig.

Not wholly confident in this attempt to draw an iridescent effect in my style, but I think it is serviceable.

-=◇=-

[goldleafgears]

◇ Neurobasis Chinensis ◇

Odonata is a fascinating order of insects for many reasons. Dragonflies and Damselflies come in all manner of shapes, sizes, and colors. Brilliant blues, iridescent greens, and fiery oranges just to name a few. Not to mention the massive leap each Dragon and Damsel takes, from gliding through the water to soaring in the skies; thanks to beginning life as an aquatic larvae. This specific fella is a Stream Glory Damselfly. I'll definitely revisit Odonata, as a single member cannot do the spectrum justice, but the deceptively wide range of colors featured in a seemingly green insect looked interesting to tackle. -=◇=-

[goldleafgears]

◇ 'Don't look up.' ◇

First glimpse at a story I'm piecing together. Samhain felt like an appropriate time for an introduction to it. Featured here are a 'Waeyrwolf', and a Hunter named Beryl. Best listen to his advice, lest you end up like the fellow in the back. More to come. Still being quite early in developing this story, visual elements here are subject to change.

-=◇=-

[goldleafgears]

◇ Pseudocreobotra Wahlbergi ◇

I find mantises to be a fascinating order of insects. The same can be said for quite a few insects, but there is something about mantises' graceful appearance juxtaposed against a downright ferocious nature I find neat. This is especially true for flower mantises. A group of little hunters that are adorned to look like delicate orchids and other flowers. This specific fella is a Spiny Flower Mantis. They are a newer species to me, and I thought the striking patterns would be interesting to attempt a drawing of. Pardon any color or anatomical discrepancies; found myself struggling to get reference images with the angles I needed.

-=◇=-

[goldleafgears]

◇ Cubaris Sp. ◇ Porcellio Pseudornatus ◇ Armadillidium Vulgare ◇

Was reminded that Rubber Ducky Isopods are a thing recently. It's always interesting just how many shapes, sizes, and colors these little fellas come in. Might end up drawing a few more later down the line, but for now here are a Rubber Ducky, Tangerine Dream, and classic Pillbug. The scientific names are a bit shaky, especially since Cubaris is a bit of a mess to dig into; so pardon if any are wrong. Also the size differences between these three is almost certainly inaccurate, as they are scaled to show off similar details in their anatomy. -=◇=-

[goldleafgears]

◇ Dynastes Hercules ◇

Hercules Beetles have always been a personal favorite. Figured this fella would be a decent enough first post. Still getting my footing both in artwork and figuring out the site, so if you're inclined to stick around, please bear with. Plenty more critters in the works. -=◇=-