The giant dolphins of Scotland

_{Species depicted: Common bottlenose dolphin (Tursiops truncatus)
Time taken: 7 hours
References used: one photo from Google to refresh my memory on the Moray firth bottlenose
Tools of the trade: Photoshop CS5}

I sincirely needed a break from four days of dolphin research and measurements, and I suddenly realised I hadn't made anything for Shadow-and-Flame-86 yet, even though it's her birthday today. So yeah, I kinda spent the whole day painting this. Finally clocked myself when it comes to painting, and even though 7n hours doesn't account for 'the whole day', I did spend my whole day behind the computer. Either painting, checking dA, or having scared the shit out of me when the computer crashed. Anyways, this is for you, Kelly! I hope you had a great day and happy birthday If you wanna know why I exactly chose to draw this and especially what the title means, read on.

Even though it might be hard to believe when looking at this drawing, both dolphins are of the exact same species; the Common bottlenose dolphin. However, the sleek guy in front is your average Flipper, while the animal in the back comes from Scotland - Moray Firth to be precise. The dolphins there are enormous (up to FOUR metres!), real acrobats and as badass as they get. Honestly, these guys make flips and jumps like no other bottlenose, chunk down huge fish in one piece and bully Harbour porpoises in their free time. Kelly has had the privilege of meeting these awesome animals several time, so check out the awesome pis she got of these black beasts!




On a more artistic note, I tried a new 'crosshatching' technique. I love the effect it gives but man, it is absolutely KILLING. Especially if you can't take a break because you need to finish it that same day...

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All submissions in this gallery, be it photos, paintings or drawings, are copyrighted to me, Namu-the-orca. No one has the right to alter, distribute, copy or use my art without my written permission unless stated otherwise. My submissions are NOT stock}