IF : Hatch

As the cargo hatch finally opened, the Brontosauruses ambled down the ramp cautiously. The long flight had numbed their circulation considerably.

The helicopter pilot had some inspiring words of wisdom for the rookie navigator... "Remember, as in life so with choppers - when one hatch closes, another opens somewhere else! "

NOTE: Although I had some interesting ideas for this week's topic...owing to my tight work schedule I'm posting just some rough concept sketches with a watercolor wash instead of finished illustrations. The drawings above feature the largest transport plane and helicopter currently in service...both are equipped with an enormous cargo bay and hatch!

IF : Strong

The really strong ones stand up for what they believe in.

NOTE: Initially I had thought of a humorous twist based on this iconic 1989 scene for my ongoing military series...But this is such a poignant image with such immense power of suggestion...So I decided to make this fan-art version instead of a spoof.

IF : Magnify

To be heard and noticed, the General often had to magnify his commands!

IF : Wrapped

The obese, rival Generals wrapped their arms around each other in a symbolic gesture of ceasefire. (Of course, beyond the veneer of the photo-op they had other thoughts!)

Military doodles

Some rough concept drawings from my sketchbook. Colored for fun, just trying out a new look!

THANK YOU!

Many many thanks to fellow bloggers and cool artists Amy, Brigitte & Shirley for considering my blog for the wonderful Bella Sinclair Award. This is the brainchild and a token of heartfelt appreciation by prolific artist Ces, celebrating the charming wit and vivacious art of her dear friend Bella! If you haven't already discovered these amazing blogs, it’s about time you did!

For me, the greatest joy of blogging is the inspiring art and the touching generosity of so many talented & spirited people around the world. So, a big thanks to everyone – talented bloggers and kind visitors alike :)

IF : Modify

The transport plane was extensively modified for airlifting its new cargo!

NOTE: Btw, if you are still interested about the fate of the curious little fox from my earlier post - click here.

IF : Idle

Contrary to the popular notion, the military top brass weren't sitting idle. In fact, they were in the middle of an important think-tank session!

IF : Worn

The Battle of the Hydaspes was so fierce that it left Alexander and his horse Buchephalas feeling worn out!

IF : Unfold

Unfold your wings and Takeoff!

>TOP SECRET - Photo by enemy reconnaissance aircraft <

IF : Adapt

The modern knight-in-Kevlar-armor had adapted well to tackle all forms of threats in the battlefield.

IF : Contagious

Rebellion, in any form and size, was considered contagious and potentially dangerous by the army.

NOTE: Seemed like a nice excuse to give the ongoing series a contemporary touch and bring it from one May Day to another kind of Mayday :)

IF : Parade

It was evident that Communism was going out of fashion when May Day parade became less serious.

Wanted to continue along the lines of my previous 'hierarchy' post and also this was a good pretext to draw tanks in parade :) 

IF : Hierarchy

In the military, often hierarchy depends on the number of stripes!

NOTE: Wanted to try something fun and absurd this time, hence the cartoon. Have also updated a previous post here with a Tiger drawing that could well qualify for this theme. But it might be a touch morbid than funny.