How long does it take to approximately produce one cover for the BDJ?

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Artwork in general takes as long as it takes.  I work for the sake of producing good work and in the knowledge that I will learn through the process. Yet I am rarely completely happy with what I produce. Many pieces you see, to me are not fully finished.

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I can take anything from 20 – 70+ hours per cover.  The challenge is in producing an image that links together knowledge and conversations with imagery and decide on techniques that could allow me to represent that.  Much of the construction of an image builds in my mind for several weeks or months.  I alter it completely, several times until is see it finished in my head and only then begin on paper.  A cover series however must be done to a timeframe.  This is a challenge because the best ideas don’t generate instantly, and quality is important.  Time constraints impact this sometimes so I’m not always happy with what I produce – like in dentistry where pressure can result in something you aren’t completely happy with, I guess.  We work as a team though, I am guided by editors, historians, authors and dental professionals. Most importantly I am supported by my family who inspire me, allow me time to think and to work.

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