Unveiling the artistry of the grimdark style: going beyond “low skill” painting
As the Creator of the Grimdark Compendium, I have spent a decade immersed in the world of miniature art, refining and teaching the unique techniques that define the grimdark modeling and painting style today. One statement I made years ago, that the grimdark style is “low skill,” has sparked much debate. Now, I aim to delve deeper into the meaning behind my assertion, clarifying that while the painting process itself may appear to be more skill intensive than I am letting on, the true complexity of the grimdark style lies in its multidimensional approach. By exploring the advanced techniques involved in modeling, texturing, environmental design, and the use of mixed media, we will discover exceptional artistry that goes far beyond mere paint application.
At the base level of the grimdark style lies the reductive technique, which distinguishes it from more traditional and more complex painterly styles. This approach involves applying base colors to the miniature and subsequently using an enamel or oil wash that is later removed with a spirit-based thinner. In terms of the painting process alone, this method requires minimal skill to achieve the desired effect. However, it is vital to recognize that the true essence of the grimdark style encompasses much more beyond this. After all, I have created and taught many grimdark techniques over the years that see wide use and few of them require a brush and paint.
Beyond the initial brushstrokes, the grimdark style reveals a realm of artistry that sets it apart from any other miniature painting style. In fact, I will go as far as to say that the grimdark style is not simply just a painting style, but more so a miniature art style, and while it, of course, does involve painting, there are far too many other elements to consider to categorize it as just a painting style.
Techniques of the Grimdark Aesthetic
What is the grimdark style? It is the embodiment of a narrative’s raw essence, where the unforgiving, dark, and twisted foundations of a universe are visually brought to life. It demands that every aspect reflects the relentless nature of these worlds and the physical and psychological burden that the characters involved must endure in order to survive, or even exist. Exploring the deepest recesses of emotions and fears; the romantic, moving, and devastating feeling of being confronted with the inner shadow self, the frailty of life, and the harrowing hardships of an oppressing, foreboding world.
Herein lies the latest techniques that I have developed that go beyond painting and that are used to capture the appropriate aesthetic for the grimdark style. In this article is but a few of the techniques I use; many more can be found within the Grimdark Compendium’s course material.
Soft Pressing Technique
For one, the soft pressing technique, a new technique that is a now seeing a lot of use in the grimdark style, enables artists to replicate to-scale scratching and chipping details onto the miniatures’ hard surfaced areas without the use of mediums or painted on chipping. When executed skillfully, this technique breathes life into the models and begins to tell a story, producing highly realistic battle damage and/or light distressing effects. Achieving the desired level of authenticity requires a discerning eye for scale, meticulous execution, and an understanding of the miniature’s narrative. I often find myself using small and sharp tools like an airbrush needle, while under a magnifying lens, to create these tiny details. This technique is exceptionally useful over bare metal effects but can be used in a wide variety of hard surface detailing.
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soft pressing examples
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fur application technique
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Continuing now to the fur technique. In the grimdark realm, there is no comparison between sculpted fur and the use of real fur. By incorporating actual animal fur into miniature models, artists can achieve a level of realism that transcends expectations. The fine texture and natural sheen of actual fir is nearly impossible to replicate by conventional modeling methods such as sculpting. By using this application technique, we introduce a totally new and unexpected texture and surface finish variation that can be quite striking. This technique, showcased brilliantly in the Grimdark Compendium’s Guide to Mordheim Episode 9 – The Skaven, serves as a testament to the dedication and craftsmanship required to bring miniatures to the next level.
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fur application examples
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rawhide modeling technique
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The creation of realistic textures, such as utilizing real animal hides for crafting miniature cloaks or clothing, represents another indispensable skill set within the grimdark style. By integrating diverse textures seamlessly and understanding the materials used in the construction of their appearance, artists can transform their miniatures into true representations of the grimdark aesthetic. This intricate process demands a comprehensive understanding of the materials used and a keen eye for detail and form, ensuring the final result aligns with the lore and narrative being depicted as well as an appreciation for the surface finish variations that can be present on any given figure.
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rawhide cloak examples
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I’ll conclude by saying that while my earlier statement referred to the “low skill” nature of the painting process within the grimdark style, it is important to recognize the multifaceted artistry that lies beyond the paintbrush. The grimdark style encompasses a rich tapestry of interesting techniques, from the nuanced soft pressing technique to the integration of real fur and the creation of immersive environments. These techniques require exceptional craftsmanship, attention to detail, and a profound understanding of the worlds being portrayed. The grimdark style, in essence, transcends conventional painting and strives to create miniatures that honor the haunting and morbid lore that vividly depicts the horrifying circumstances and worlds they represent.
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