Like Ghana itself, Charles Santoso is found a wee ways away from me, and like many many other friends I have, the internet has once again been a instrument in connecting me with people I would have probably never otherwise met. I first saw Charles’ amazing pencil work in the summer shortly after I myself joined the Sketchoholics site (an excellent place to stay sharp!). Charles was busy winning almost every contest he participated in creating some of the cooolest pictures I have ever seen. (And so he also has a great interview on the site if you are interested!)
It has been an extreme pleasure to get to know Charles a bit more. His character designs and scene layouts ON TOP of his artwork means I spend more than a minute or two admiring his work each week. Here is some of his progress from his Savanna page:
Interesting enough, Charles starts with quick digital sketches and to get a feel for what he wants to draw before his finished traditional drawing (in progress at the bottom). Then he adds a bit of color to it back on the computer again. Here is a short bio for Charles:
Charles Santoso is a concept artist and illustrator currently living in Sydney, Australia. He loves creating small drawings in his sketchbook and dreams about funny creatures.
Stay tuned!
-Mike Boldt
9 Degrees North: The ABCs of Northern Ghana 
This is an exciting page. I really like the village feel. At the same time we want to emphasize the flatness and openness of the savannah, and the baobab on the left helps do that. I look forward to see where this is going. If I can help answer any ‘savanna’ questions, please feel free to ask. Thanks so much.
Marilyn
Pingback: Letter S – Savanna Sunset | 9 Degrees North: The ABCs of Northern Ghana