noli novak
For a long time I have wondered where the stipple artwork/portraits in the Wall Street Journal come from. I imagined they might have software that creates the illustrations from photos. But, I am pretty sure these existed before software was around to do the heavy lifting. Well, it turns out that this brilliant artist, Noli Novak, does them all by hand, dot by dot. They, she, are phenomenal.
She also does these fantastic collages using torn out paper from magazines. They look like very clever watercolor. I like them better than the stipple portraits. So good.
[via boingboing.]
There was a story on NPR regarding her the weekend before last I think. I don’t think she does them all though based on the interview. She has a team that she works with, but they try to use her style.
Here’s the story. She’s a bit of a looker too. I think she’d be much better for you than that Mindy Raf person.
I believe credit is due to stipple illustrator and creator of the Wall Street Journal portrait style Kevin Sprouls. He taught many of the illustrators who create the portraits or hedcuts for the journal, including ms novak. See his work at http://www.sprouls.com
He may have invented the design of the hedcuts, but Noli’s drawing are better….. They actually look like the people she is drawing… She does two drawing a day each weekday… If you are looking to get one made for yourself, check out Ms. Novak’s site…. Her prices are also more reasonalble since she works full time and does not need to charge more like Kevin Sprouls does…..
It sounds like Darth is Noli’a agent, not an unbiased blogger. Free advertising? I looked at both artist’s sites. They are both very talented. If and when I approach one for an illo, I will try Kevin Sprouls first because his self promotion is not back-biting. Perhaps you actually do get what you pay for - Talent plus kindness and humility.
Ha ha ha!
Darth might sound like Noli’s agent, but you dear Johanna and BT sound like the holy “creator” himself!
So transparent! A little Googling and research shows exactly what you’re doing! It’s awfully sad to see such an established artist getting his ratings up by stalking Noli Novak’s progress and attaching his name and web address in every possible blog mention of hers! Not just that you’re blatantly self promoting and “back biting” by trying to rain on Noli’s parade, but you have a nerve to attack people who are in awe of her work!! In case you haven’t noticed Johanna, this blog IS promoting Noli! Doesn’t your friend KS get any blog “chatter” of his own?!
Such sad behavior can only mean one thing: somebody is afraid of competition! Obviously, for a very good reason!
I am a friend of Noli Novak’s. I’m going to bring this trend to her attention. I’m sure she’ll get a kick out of it!!
Darth simply thinks her’s are better and since he got quotes from both Noli and Kevin he knows who to go to for a job… There is nothing wrong with someone being honest… kindness and humilty? please Johanna spear us all……