This Is How It Starts

This is how I develop a concept. I get an idea in my head and it rolls around until I finally put pencil/pen to paper(any paper I have handy)and start doodling. I have a basic vision of my subject matter. In this case, cats lapping up starry milk from the Milky Way. From observing my own cats I can create rough sketches of felines engaged in the appropriate activities to suit my concept.

Next, I need to do research. What does the Milky Way look like...really? During my online browsing I discovered that the Milky Way can appear as an incredible spiral or resemble an erupting volcano of cosmic vapors, very organic in shape. Good! This will give me the creative 'wiggle room' I will need. Now all that's needed is the Moon. Got to have the Moon! The next step will be to incorporate all these elements into a pleasing study worthy of painting. That will be the next challenge...........