Whilst I have a couple of long-running projects bubbling under the surface, I was delighted to be asked to take part in Gallery Nucleus’ exhibition celebrating Naughty Dog’s 40th Anniversary. I’d previously taken on a private commission inspired by Jak and Daxter, so I was very happy to be able to jump back into that world and create a new piece of work based upon the game.







After the invite, I was asked to send 2 sketches to Gallery Nucleus and Naughty Dog for approval. As is often the case, I had something specific in mind that I wanted to draw - so my heart wasn’t particularly in the second sketch I came up with. Thankfully, both were approved and I had my choice of the 2.


The exhibition required physical pieces to be on display in the gallery, which meant my primary focus was shipping them an original ink drawing. I also wanted to create a coloured version of the illustration, but with the tight turnaround I wasn’t sure how feasible this was going to be. As such - any sketches I did were done with both a colour version AND a black/white version in mind, so that the piece worked in both cir


I worked very closely to the digital sketch that I’d mapped out. The only things that changed were:

•     The inclusion of more leaves/vines, to make things feel more overgrown and forgotten,

•     I replaced the enemy lurker to the left with an eco-vent. I think the piece evokes a feeling of mystery and awe - you wonder what these large statues are and where they’re taking you - and including another creature detracted from that. Tonally it just seemed to clash, and changing this was a decision that was made just before I started inking. Very glad I did!

With the original illustration finished, I packed it up and shipped it to LA so that it could be hung in the exhibition. In the meantime, I decided I had enough time to get a coloured version done, so I started work on it. Once I sent the coloured version through, the Gallery would be able to print themselves.



Something I’m very happy with in this piece is the job I did with the colour. It’s really come to life since I added the highlights and shadows. I also opted to colour the linework which helps make the whole thing feel softer, as opposed to being harsh, solid and black.





My original drawing (framed) was up for sale (and sold!), but there’s also a limited run of 100 copies of the coloured print available if you want to visit the link below and nab one!


Thanks to Omar from Gallery Nucleus for reaching out and giving me the opportunity, and congratulations to Naughty Dog on 40 years!