9 Breaking the rules

Even when I’m doing more realistic pieces, anatomical knowledge can be just as useful for knowing when to break the rules for effect as for adhering to them. For this Modesty Blaise image, which appeared on the cover of Agent X9 magazine, I deliberately gave her an unnaturally long neck. This gives the viewer a clearer picture of her face (it being the most important clue to the character’s identity) and also adds, I think, a little elegance to a strong pose. The problem is, now that I’ve pointed this out, it’s going to bother you… so let’s just go back to before you read this and pretend I never said anything!