A World Ruled by Frogs, Crying Men and Strong Women

First this week, I'd like to introduce you to a new species that most likely ruled our planet in some forgotten age.

Ascaphus Maximus, digital 10" x 7" 300 dpi

Ascaphus Maximus - At a peak height of 23 feet, this towering Amphibian is the only bipedal terrrestrial frog that breeds by internal fertilization. The specialized tail is an extension of the cloaca, and is used both to insert sperm into the females cloaca, and prevent her escape. During breeding season, spring and summer, males produce a bellowing, sonorous croak which can be heard for miles, and is often mistaken for landslides, flooding or earthquakes by the untrained ear. The Ascaphus is highly intelligent and has proved to be a valuable ally to equatorial hunting tribes. However they can be temperemental during the breeding time, and have been known to eat the occasional human, particularly those who find it amusing to mock an unsuccessfully breeding male.

Next is a portrait. This model is another unsuspecting participant from “The Artist is present” by Marina Abramović.  The faces in that set never fail to inspire when I need some portrait. practice.

Fred Murphy, oil on Paper, 14" x 11"

...and finally, yet ANOTHER figure study.  This is from a new set of motion studies on Posespace. Of course I picked probably the least active pose, but I really liked the stance.  I keep doing these partly for enjoyment, but also because I feel it is the area where I need practice.

Ana Standing, oil on paper 14" x 11"