From SylvainR: Balrog and Lava Demonettes for D&D (45 points)

 

This week, the cleric encounters a Balrog and his posse of lava demonettes. All the above are vinyl models from Reaper.

I had this idea to create a group of "lava demonettes", so I gathered some figurines that could be "adapted" for that purpose. Except I had no idea how to paint "lava". I started with the model on the left, below. The grey rocks did not look right and I used the sponge effect too much. The next two figurines are naiad, I think, and their floating hair evoke flames. They look like they are spewed out from the magma. 

 

After a few trials, I developed a technique I felt comfortable with to create the lava effect, especially on the base. I am providing a short tutorial, so I can refer to it later, if I decide to do this kind of base again.
First, the model must be primed white and then completely painted yellow using ink, which makes it "glow". Rocks and other elements like the scorched tree are painted hull red instead of black or grey, as it gives the effect of some internal residual heat. Then the rocks are outlined with red ink (not paint), as you will want to be able to dilute and mix later.

Using diluted red ink in layers, I created variations in "temperature". In this case, the zones of the body closer to the source of the heat (the ground) are left yellow while the upper parts are more red.

 

Finally, using a sponge, I added speckles of black paint all over the model, but more generously on the tree. It makes the tree look "carbonized" instead of just "black".

Below, you can see the final result for the demonette used in the tutorial. I painted her hair black and her weapon copper. She was a dryad, but I think her new life as a "magmaiad" suits her well. For the demonette in the center, I was wondering what color I should paint her clothes, since she is made of lava. I opted to use metallic color, especially gold, since, at around 1000oC, metal becomes malleable like fabric. For the base of the "snake(d) lady", I aligned the stones in a circular pattern in an attempt to suggest some sort of magic power flowing from her.

After gaining confidence with smaller models, I was ready to tackle the boss. I wanted to avoid cloning the style of the Peter Jackson Balrog and instead tried to make the skin look like hot lava. I also wanted a base oozing earth's magma, pushing from beneath. The loin clothe is painted with metallic colors.

One wing is glowing, the other not. Must be the lighting...

 

Points claimed:

6 x 28mm foot figurines at 5 points each = 30 points

1 x 54mm foot figurines at 10 points each = 10 points

Total = 40 points

Thanks for reading!

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Great work here Sylvain - well done once again on tackling new and different approaches to painting challenging subject. As Curt has often remarked to me, this is a Painting CHALLENGE after all, and good on you for exploring new techniques - and also sharing process as well as the results, so we can benefit from your work. This sort of reverse-lighting-glow called for by subjects which are meant to made from literal fire is really, really tricky to paint, and you should be pleased with your results!

And what D&D exploring party won't be...uh...thrilled to see a Balrog, right? I mean, I doubt any prior encounters with Lava Demonettes will have burns that were TOO awful, so no doubt the cleric and any friends will have plenty of strength and many options to..."cope with"...yes, let's say "cope with" a Balrog!

I am awarding five extra points for the hard work you have shown on these new and different painting approaches. 

GregB