Bird Cage: A Captivating Illustration by Lana Ansay

An Exploration of Emotion and Anatomy

Illustrator Lana Ansay has created a thought-provoking series of illustrations titled "Bird Cage" that delves into the depths of human emotion and the complexities of the human anatomy. These pieces are open to interpretation, serving as an exploration of the deep feelings we often experience and how they sometimes erupt in a way we find hard to explain. Trauma, inspiration, epiphany - all these emotions are so raw and full of power, yet they are so difficult to describe simply by using the word catharsis. Ansay's work is an attempt to convey more than that.

In a society that demands the impossible act of numbing the soul, Ansay's illustrations serve as a reminder of the importance of acknowledging and embracing our emotions. Through her intricate and stylized depiction of skeletal anatomy, she invites viewers to reflect on their own experiences and connect with the vulnerability and strength that lies within.

The realization of these illustrations involved a combination of digital techniques. Ansay sketched the initial designs in a program called Firealpaca and then transferred them to Photoshop, where she meticulously painted them using a Wacom tablet and basic Photoshop brushes. The result is a series of captivating illustrations that seamlessly blend technical skill with emotional depth.

Ansay's dedication to her craft is evident in the extensive research she conducted for this project. She spent significant time studying skeletal anatomy, ensuring that her illustrations accurately portrayed the human form while also breaking the boundaries of traditional representation. Additionally, she utilized the Skelly app, which allowed her to pose a digital skeleton for art reference, further enhancing the authenticity and dynamism of her illustrations.

One of the main challenges Ansay faced during the creation of "Bird Cage" was striking a balance between believable anatomy and dramatic poses. By breaking the traditional anatomical structure, she was able to convey a sense of movement and emotion, capturing the attention and empathy of her audience.

Overall, "Bird Cage" is a testament to Ansay's technical skill and her ability to convey emotion in a meaningful way. Through her illustrations, she invites viewers to explore their own emotions and reflect on the fragility and resilience of the human spirit.

It is no surprise that Ansay's exceptional work has been recognized and awarded. In 2019, "Bird Cage" was honored with the Bronze A' Design Award in the Graphics, Illustration, and Visual Communication Design category. This prestigious award is bestowed upon outstanding and creatively ingenious designs that authenticate experience and resourcefulness. Ansay's illustrations exhibit strong technical and creative skills, contributing to the improvement of quality of life and making the world a better place.