Designing Dragons: Space Dragons (Part 2)
I first read Anne McCaffrey’s Dragonflight in late middle (or early high) school. It was after I had read The Hobbit, and before I plunged into Piers Anthony’s many Xanth novels. And, even though it had a female protagonist (and her dragon), I really enjoyed it. Since it took place on another planet, it reminded me of Princess Leia and Star Wars a bit…of course, I loved the cover by Michael Whelan (the real reason I read it):
Imagine my surprise when I received a call from Delrey books in 2001 to do a “new” version of Pern – fully illustrated and aimed for younger readers. Wow!
Needless to say, I was giddy to be walking in the tracks of Whelan to bring my own view of Pern to life…but alas, it never really happened to the full extent of my vision.
You see, a book like this has a loooong history with a lot of people attached. Bringing in some new, “unknown artist” who wanted to tear the place apart and redesign everything, ruffled feathers. And so, many of my early space dragon designs were abandoned. I am posting some of these images here for the first time. The rest will have to wait for my Art of Tony D book…
Here, for once, I did not feel the constraints I had felt when I designed the terrestrial dragons found in D&D. I was thinking less-dragon-more-space-creature, and had great fun exploring shapes and forms. I looked at a lot animals for the head design: antelope, hippo, and fledgling birds. Finally we settled on a horse-like form – not my first pick, but it certainly appeared gallant on the final cover.
Like Dinosaur Summer, I am pretty sure my version of Dragonflight is out of print. However, the labor that went into this book was not a loss to me. Projects where I can explore ideas and flesh out concepts are always rewarding – even if it all doesn’t make it to the final product…which often happens with me. I do a lot of sketches before I even think of preparing for a final image.
So, the dragon-design knowledge (as well as the world-building designs: people, clothing, architecture, etc) I gained here became very useful when I began laying the groundwork for a new series of books I had created with my good friend Holly Black…
Up next: Spiderwick dragons!
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I remember the furore on the official Anne McCaffrey bulletin board when the art was released. So many of us are such big fans of Whelan’s covers, it’s really hard to step back from a first impression that has shaped your vision of an entire storyverse.
I just re-read Spiderwick and was reminded that Byron looks a lot like a gryphon by Maurice Sendak, used by the Toronto Public Library special Osborne Collection of Early Children’s Books. ^_^
its funny to find people getting so upset about the style of art on a novel cover getting changed. Isnt change a good thing? i would always have thought that such a change could very easily re-energize peoples imaginations. but alas not.
i also struggle with dragons but for me its really fantastical beasts in general.
and whats this about a tony D art book? is it something in the works?!
Those Pern dragons are very cool. If they ever turn Pern into a movie they should use your painting as a reference. Its so cool how you get to do all that cool stuff.
I think that a Pern dragon would be cool in Star Wars. I’m a fan of the origanal series to!
I bought it when I saw the cover. I have most McCaffrey covers, but one by you was an extra special treat. I especially loved the inside art. Lessa was just how I always imagined her. Wonderful.
Oh my… You’re the one that drew this cover? It’s absolutely lovely. I can’t believe I didn’t make the connection when reading the Spiderwick Chronicles…
Dragonflight was my introduction to Pern, and I’ve imagined the dragons ‘your way’ ever since then. Great job. You really stayed with the description, and yet put your own spin on it as well… Much love.
I always liked the way you colored the dragons. It makes it look like actual skin, not like on some other covers. SUCH a gorgeous piece of artwork…
Thanks Anya!
Perhaps I’ll do more space dragons down the road, you never know…
Dear Tony,
I am a huge fan of your work and like most, when i first picked up your copy of Dragonflight (which was in middle school) i was a little bit wary, however, as i began to fall in love with the book, i grew more and more attached to your illustrations. I began to become enamored with your completely original take on something we all have such a stereotypical image for. Your artwork has held a special place in my heart and inspired myself (i’m an art student in school now) to break down typical ideas and explore completely new artistic expressions. Your style is breathtaking and daring, and your illustrated version of Dragonflight is my favorite among all others; it was the first version i read and i never could return to more traditional depictions! I’m a huge fan of the spiderwick books as well, and I will always treasure my collection of DiTerlizzi illustrated books! You’ve made quite an impression on me as an artist (and potential illustrator if all things go well!) and i admire your artistry.
in short, your Dragonflight illustrations were beautiful, rich, and full of unbridled imagination and vivacity; and you are an amazing artist. Congrats and keep doing what feels right!
I read Dragonflight too. I know the green book. I really like it! That ilustrations is soo beautiful! I got to now to first watch. When I was younger I read Spiderwick’s chronicles and I love that pictures! (Sorry from English)
Ugh! This is terrible! The dragons look like combinations of worms and some sort of hideous camel things. Leave the old artwork alone–it’s far better.
…I just looked back and you said explicitly you went “less-dragon-more-space creature.”
Seriously?
sorry, I gotta agree with Katie E. I can’t imagine your dragos participating in mating flights….it just doesn’t seem like a good picture. I don’t like the horns on the side either. I didn’t picture them as horses, more-so “majestic, beautiful creatures.” but your dragons do look suited for a sci fi series, just not Pern. I like Lessa, though. Your design of her (i’m referring to the first picture on this post) is best.
Thanks for the critique, Katie and Lyra. Remember, there are many editions of this book available to suit all tastes.
Please share with me YOUR illustrated renditions so I may return the criticism with the same exuberance.
I think this is the best illustrated of her books. I absolutely love all of her books and your illustration of them just makes them that much better. I wish they had all been done by you. I think the dragon is great looking and very much like how they are described. Much more friendly than any of the other illustrations. In fact I don’t really like any of the other dragons. I just got done ordering a copy of Dragon Flight supposedly signed by you. I can’t wait till it arrives.
Thanks Lora,
If it is not signed, you can always send it to me. I sign mailed-in books all the time. Just remember an SASE.
it is signed. thank you so much for offering and letting me know that. maybe ill do that next time.
it seems strange to me that someone would be appalled by the fact you were thinking of space dragons. they are space dragons! lol from another world not earth. makes sense to me. anyway i love the illustrations. completely the style that i enjoy. and brought the books even more to life for me. thanks again.