Matt Ellis is entered in the “Steampunk Myths and Legends” update: View Challenge Page
Latest Update: Concept / pre-visualization: Character Style Guide
Steampunk Myths and Legends Entry: Matt Ellis
Matellis
#3
This is going to be a great time. I really love the theme for this challenge.
Right now I am trying to decide if I want to take the serious or humorous approach. Then I will start looking for interesting myths 
And then sketch like a mad man!
Hopefully i will have some updates soon
paperclip
#4
When in doubt, make us lol. 
Glad to see you around- will we be seeing matte paintings from you?
Matellis
#5
Hey Theresa
I think I might add some matte painting elements to the background in my image but I really want to focus on character work and creating emotion with this painting as I havent done that im any of my images in a long time (if ever). So i am excited but also scared! :argh:
Should be fun none the less though!
Ivy00
#7
Hi Matt good to see you entering this , good luck and can’t wait to see which approach you decide to take. I am partial to the humorous approach , but that is just because I think I might be a bit twisted.
Matellis
#8
Thanks Linda! I am leaning towards humor in this painting just because I love paintings that have some elements of comedy.
Here are a couple myths that I have found interesting so far.
1.Valhalla | Norse Mythology
Valhalla is the great hall of the Einherjar - the heroic dead. Warriors who died in glorious battle were chosen by Odin to wait in Valhalla until Ragnarok.
The large strucure, built by Odin himself in Asgard, had over five hundred doors, each large enough for eight hundred warriors to march out of at the time of Ragnarok so that they could fight the futile battle with the gods.
Valhalla was the heaven of the Vikings - a large hall where wounds healed quickly and meat was readily available. A constant routine of fighting and feasting ensured that the warriors were at their physical peak when Ragnarok came.
2.The Phoenix | Greek Mythology
The Phoenix is a great mythical bird. The creature lives for 500 years, and when it’s lifespan ends it sets itself aflame. From it’s ashes, a new phoenix is born. The Phoenix is a symbol of rebirth, ressurection or renewal in many mythologies.
edit: text found at ancient-mythology.com
Matellis
#10
Hey thanks Michael!
I decided on a topic for my painting. I will recreate the great hall Valhalla “Hall of the Slain”.
Valhalla | Norse Mythology
Valhalla is the great hall of the Einherjar - the heroic dead. Warriors who died in glorious battle were chosen by Odin to wait in Valhalla until Ragnarok.
The large strucure, built by Odin himself in Asgard, had over five hundred doors, each large enough for eight hundred warriors to march out of at the time of Ragnarok so that they could fight the futile battle with the gods.
Valhalla was the heaven of the Vikings - a large hall where wounds healed quickly and meat was readily available. A constant routine of fighting and feasting ensured that the warriors were at their physical peak when Ragnarok came.
(Text from www.ancient-mythology.com )
So the plan is to make this great hall but filled with many worriors feasting, drinking and having a good time. Roaring fires, big beer kegs and lots of steampunk elements such at their armor and the hall itself (steam powered doors and so on)
Now on to concepting!
snake08
#11
Dude don’t get drunk while doing this one lol Thanks for inspiring me to join this challenge man, cant wait to see your work.
Matellis
#13
Hey guys!
Here is my first attempt at a rough wip. I also changed the story up as well.
I have lots of changes to make to the composition I think but I thought I would post it up and maybe get some feedback.
Thanks
paperclip
#15
Looking cool so far:D Can’t wait to see colors…I want to see the valhalla concept though. :twisted:
kaparo
#16
Hi there,
Great mood and environment. Very captivating as all of your work. Can’t wait to see how this will be developed. Good luck!
Ferx
#17
Hey Matt,
Really awesome first sketch Like the enviroment on it, and your concept is really original, the myths and legends nested on your image, cool !! Good luck mate, and looking forward for more updates on your concept!. Cheers!! 
Canche
#18
I love it. the idea of putting it as a newspaper article is pretty neat. i was actually going to do something like that, by putting the image in an old frame. I also like the render of the image. Did you use a reference for the lighting?
sasquatch70
#19
Hello Matt,
Great idea. I think it would be cool to see a closer view of the stage, and the sets on the stage. Maybe an over the shoulder shot of the crowd looking at the presentation. Just a thought. Awesome start sir.
Brad