Journal of Nature Science Illustrators Vol. 51, No. 1: Abstracts

GNSI • February 1, 2019
Journal of Nature Science Illustrators Vol. 51, No. 1 - Cover image

Welcome to the first Journal edition of 2019!

As often happens, this issue does a great job of reflecting our diverse interests. There are three very practical technique articles, two on traditional techniques for drawing and rendering, and an article on digital 3D modeling—essentially building a digital sculpture to use as the basis of a 2D illustration.


We have a discussion on framing and shipping artwork, some GNSI chapter news, and an article on the natural history of the environs of Queensland that Geoff Thompson knows intimately from many years’ worth of field trips.


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Different types of non-photo pencils.

Non-Photo Blue Pencils (Open Access)

Dino Pulerà


“Even though I’ve known about non-photo blue pencils for some time, I’ve only been using them to sketch for about four or five years. I really like the freedom to work rough and loose without later worrying about the blue lines competing with the final sketch.” In this article, Dino provides insight into this preliminary drawing technique, with practical tips and suggestions on choices of pencil and technique.


(a) Pencil drawing of Gleditsia triacanthos seed pods. 
(c) Carbon dust drawing of G. triacanthos, with masked areas circled in red.

Unmasked: Masks in Traditional Art

Marlene Hill Donnelly


“We all recognize the essentialness of masks in Photoshop, but their value in traditional art is perhaps (oddly) more obscure. The use of masks (or friskets) has a venerable history reaching back to the handprints found in 40,000-year-old caves. In today’s traditional media, masks are employed in graphite, carbon dust, pastels, and even oils.” Read on as Marlene explores this useful technique for traditional art.

Mahogany glider, Petaurus gracilis, an endangered gliding possum.

A Special Place: Queensland, Australia

Geoff Thompson


“I was there when a new species of frog was discovered. I backpacked up rainforested mountains, went for five-day walks through pristine country, heard the calls of now-extinct frogs, helped discover and draw many new species, and heard experts point out and explain special biological treasures.” Join Geoff, our host for the Brisbane Conference 2019, as he treats us to a glimpse into the amazing wildlife and scenic beauty of Australia.

GNSI 2019 conference at Brisbane, Australia

Brisbane 2019 Conference Preview

— Geoff Thompson


Welcome to Australia!

The GNSI and your host, Geoff Thompson, are very excited to welcome everyone to

Brisbane, Australia for our 51st annual conference. This article presents just a taste of the program, exhibits, and field trips that await conference attendees.

Grow your digital plant - quinoa plant

Grow Your Digital Plant (Open Access)

Heno Hwang


In this tutorial article, the author shows how to make a complete plant using the Maya 3D application, and Photoshop. The process is designed to maintain maximum flexibility, allowing for the not uncommon case of the customer’s request for modifications.

RRRRIPPED from the List
All art ©Stephen DiCerbo

RRRRIPPED from the List: Artwork Gallery Exhibition


This installment of RRRRipped From The List begins as a discussion about insurance protection while exhibiting works in Galleries. It morphs into recommendations for framing options when preparing for a show, and shipping considerations.

GNSI Carolinas Chapter members gathered at Weymouth Woods in September 2018.

Chapter Happenings: Carolinas Chapter

Betsy Donovan


A snapshot of our very-active GNSI-Carolinas Chapter, whose diverse membership includes career artists/scientists and retirees from other occupations. From exhibits and sketch outings, to workshops and even a digital database, the GNSI Carolinas Chapter offers a wealth of activities and resources to members primarily from North Carolina, South Carolina and Georgia.

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