Genabackis Style Explorations

[joshuabbutler]

Both styles definitely work, and I suppose it depends on what you want a viewer to feel looking at the map. Personally, I do like the less saturated colors in the second map, but feel like you need to build visual contrast between the land and the water. If you squint at it, I think the values are too similar which causes the land to get a little lost. So if you darken the values of the water I think it will help give that extra pop.

But, both really do look great. Either one would look awesome hanging on the wall

- Josh

Great thanks Josh! I feel like I just naturally trend towards darker, even though I respect those who can do lighter desaturated work.

[joshuabbutler]

I for one definitely prefer the darker version (is there anyone who is surprised? ) But for my money, what the darker version has that to me makes it work better than the lighter one: contrast. There is a stronger contrast between the deep dark blue of the ocean and the greens of the land, and that to me is what makes it look lush and lively and more alive than the lighter version, and makes it more pleasing to look at in general. I think your strong lineart works better with these type of contrasted tones too. Lighter colour makes for a much more muted whole, which in my opinion often works better with fine, delicate linework.

Thanks for the feedback Kellerica! I for some reason alway output dark designs. I like more minimal implementations from others, but I always over do it. Also, true about the strong line work. Though, that is probably a result of my ipad not being able to handle anything bigger than an A3 size and the delicate line work looking pixelated. I should maybe get in iPad pro. Thanks again!

[joshuabbutler]

I for one definitely prefer the darker version (is there anyone who is surprised? ) But for my money, what the darker version has that to me makes it work better than the lighter one: contrast. There is a stronger contrast between the deep dark blue of the ocean and the greens of the land, and that to me is what makes it look lush and lively and more alive than the lighter version, and makes it more pleasing to look at in general. I think your strong lineart works better with these type of contrasted tones too. Lighter colour makes for a much more muted whole, which in my opinion often works better with fine, delicate linework.

I just looked at your website. It looks really good!