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creativematrix | all galleries >> Archives >> Creative Challenge Archives >> A Special Challenge > The Dryad's Door
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20-OCT-2011 Meg

The Dryad's Door

I love the mythical stories about oak trees and the faerie spirits who dwell within them. In Greek mythology, a Dryad is a spirit living within the oak. In Celtic myth the oak was symbolic of a portal to the Otherworld, a door between the light and dark seasons of the year as well as a place of protection. I did this image awhile ago intending to upload it to CM. Now that I'm finally well enough to participate a little more, I'm glad it works for this challenge. I used scans of my photo of a local oak tree, a door photo from one of my travels (can't remember where),some text and a pencil sketch of the face. My process is always the same: layer the images and move them around until I like the composition, play with the different modes, play with hue adjustments and level adjustments, burn and dodge a little and maybe add some texturizing.


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creativematrix22-Oct-2011 19:50
I have really missed your images so this is a real treat. The drawing of the Dryad in the door is beautiful and I love the words "tree became quite silent and thoughtful". The expression on the face really reflects the words. I think we all love trees and find that a walk among them is a solace to our souls. The texture is perfect for a fairy tale book. --skunk
creativematrix21-Oct-2011 16:49
I love the snippets of text here, and the overall mystery. The palette adds a lot to the dreamy quality, with just enough complimentary color to give it life. We have needed your unique approach to digital art--no restrictions, just what seems right to you, no matter how it might seem to another, and using several methods, not just one program.
Almita the cybergrannie
creativematrix21-Oct-2011 14:06
Glad to see your beautiful images, Meg. Oak trees you say?? You would love our New Orleans live oaks that cover the streets (and our house) - They were a large factor in the buying of this house! So happy that you are feeling better.
Laurie