This is my interpretation of the unbelievably popular beast that is Harry Potter entitled ‘‘Draco Dormiens’ a shortened version of the Hogwarts motto ‘draco dormiens nunquam titillandus’ (Never Tickle a Sleeping Dragon).My aim for this piece was to focus on a dominant icon from the narrative and put my twist to it rather than trying to inject a deeper, more surreal narrative that could possibly be missed or offend the die-hard lovers of the franchise! There was such a huge scope on possible scenes that could be created and I still have those in my locker but for now I have gone full on with the imposing Hogwarts Castle and the magic that is contained within it’s stone walls.The building is incredible, monumental in fact, by changing the perspective of the scene it amplifies this to a great effect and through building snowcapped mountains into the background it positions the castle much higher than it possibly could be and further adds to the majestic qualities of the setting and remoteness of Howarts castle. Expanding on the magical qualities of Hogwarts and the overriding narrative I have introduced dramatic waterfalls that spill over the jagged rocks towards you, look closely and they glow, there’s something in the water here. It isn’t just the flowing water that comes towards you, Harry Potter’s pet Snowy Owl is also in full flight as is something else!This piece has a really strong contrast between darkness and light, genuine innocence and twisted evil that lurks in the shadows and the soot and that creeps up on the castle and those who reside within. I was aware of the enormity of the following that Harry Potter has and the protectiveness of that so I hope I have done it justice because I loved creating this piece.
