Deku Tree terrarium progress

My latest project: Deku Tree terrarium! I would love to do a series of Zelda-themed terrariums, but right now let's just focus on this one.

I have found it is much easier to start new drawings by staying simple, almost abstract. This didn't ever click for me until very recently. Viewing everything as abstract placeholders makes it easier to focus on the overall foundation. One mistake I regret in my previous art is over-rendering details far too early in the process.

Following this will make it easier to work in an analog setting. Right now I'm bouncing between digital and traditional, but I hope to eventually adapt this entirely for a traditional medium.

Next, I fine-tuned the sketch digitally. Still didn't add details, but adjusted the various forms to make sure everything is structurally sound and balanced. My goal was for the zero sketch to be as sound as possible, but making changes is inevitable.

Now, the fun part!! I printed the artwork out, very light on the ink so I could easily draw over it. I want to spend more time away from computer screens in general. When you're bored, your mind does miraculous things. I remember being bored in school and doodling. With screens and other distractions, these magical moments feel far and in between, so I decided to make more opportunities for that to happen.

I was still fairly easy on the details at this stage as I was still unsure of the direction I was headed in. But at least the foundation is secured.

Here is where the real fun begins.... importing the sketch back to digital! Oh yeah, it's all coming together!

As of Sunday night, here's where I'm at. I'm excited to work on this some more. I have no idea what I'm going to do next, but that's the part of the fun. The hardest part - the foundation - is long taken care of. So now I can start to explore!