For this subject, Visual Research, we got given the story 'Alice in Wonderland' by Lewis Carroll as a theme. Each one of us had a different chapter to work with, mine being chapter V: 'Advice from a Caterpillar'.

We had to undertake deep research, putting together several moodboards and do sketches and experiments with different media and materials to eventually produce the final pieces. These consisted of a wall-hanging piece (like a painting) of at least A1 size, and a 3D self-standing piece to compliment/support the story told by the wall piece.

Even though my depiction of the caterpillar is rather stereotypical, I tried to depict him as a mysterious, slightly creepy creature by playing specially with its facial features, which were inspired by japanese kabuki masks and rorschach tests, as well as having chosen a very specific type of caterpillar that matched the vibe really well. Additionally, I tried to walk away from my usual monochromatic approach, making it look a little more psychedellic and helping to tie the whole painting together.

As per the mushroom cluster, it was supposed to be a continuation of those on the tree trunk in the painting. I originally tried to make the mushrooms with expanding foam filler but it didn't take paint well and so papier-mâché was the best alternative.

This was effectively the first time I've painted anything with acrylics, so there's plenty to improve, but do I love my creepy critter so much!!