Erika Taguchi
MY ILLUSTRATION PROCESS
SKETCHES AND THUMBNAILS
Every painting begins with exploration. I start by working through ideas in thumbnails and sketches, loosely mapping out compositions, values, and the overall feel of the piece. This stage is all about experimentation, finding what works before committing to a larger format.
UNDERPAINTING
Once I (or the client) have settled on a direction, I move to the underpainting. Working traditionally, I establish the foundational values and forms, building up the structure that will support everything that follows. This stage is where the painting really starts to take shape, where light and shadow begin to define the subject.
COLOR COMPS
After completing the underpainting, I scan it into Photoshop to develop the color palette. Using color layers over the scanned image, I experiment with different schemes and harmonies, testing how colors interact before finalizing my choices. This digital color comp serves as a roadmap for the final piece.
FINAL PAINTING
The final painting happens in one of two ways. Sometimes I complete it digitally, building on the work I’ve done in Photoshop. More often though, I return to traditional media, using the color comp as a guide while letting the painting evolve naturally under my brush. There’s something irreplaceable about working with physical paint—the texture, the spontaneity, the tangible connection between hand and surface.
I’m currently accepting commissions for illustration work. Whether you need a book cover, editorial piece, portrait, or concept art, I’d love to bring your vision to life. Please email me at etaguchi@yahoo.com with details about your project, and I’ll get back to you with a quote and next steps.