SciFi and Fantasy Art: Beren & Lúthien

FANTASTIC! That's the 1st word that came to mind when I saw this picture. A large part of that stems from the expression on their face. Beren's face especially is absolutely priceless... so gentle and loving. And you can almost feel the tenderness with which his hand strokes Luthien's face. The clothes are very life-like, with their folds and shading. The background looks so real as well. I like the lighting too. The overall colour scheme of this picture is somewhat muted, which gives a feel for the antiquity of the event portrayed. My only critique (if I may) is that Luthien's face should be tilted ever so slightly upward so as to make it easier for her to maintain eye contact with the slightly taller Beren portrayed in your picture. Among all your pictures that I've seen so far, I have to say this is most certainly my favourite. I'm shocked that this didn't receive a Mod's Choice. Overall, simply BEAUTIFUL!Thanks a lot. I can't really complain about not getting a MC for this piece, since they've been so good to me with many other paintings in the past. I feel quite lucky in that regard. I'm really glad you like this piece in particular, since it obviously concerns two very important characters. Now that you mention it, I can really see how Lúthien's gaze misses the eyes of Beren. But if I remember correctly, I wanted it to look as if she is studying the shape of his face, as well as taking in the lines of care and toil, whilst his stare is telling her in unspoken terms ‘look into my eyes!’. I think this was a conscious decision of mine to try and portray the nervous ‘flirtation’ of early courtship, particularly on the female’s part.

How romantically this paiting is!! Good, good. Tolkien certainly wrote a romantic scene!

In some pictures, your people tend to be a little stiff, but you captured their postures excellently in this piece. I love the colors and Luthien's hair is gorgeous.Well since this was painted I hope my figures have improved somewhat. Though I haven't been painting much over the last few years, I've been sketching a lot and simply practicing. By the time I manage to find the time to paint some more Tolkien work, hopefully there'll be some real progress. Thank you very much.

this really is breathtaking! I've always been impressed that so many people dare to draw luthien's face, and often it doesnt turns out so well. however, this one does her justice! (and that says a lot, given to that she was one of the most beautiful who ever lived)I'm sure it's impossible to capture her true likeness, however I'm glad you're pleased with this humble attempt.

I LOVE this picture and the story about them is so fair...you've captured their love in a wonderful way. I love the flower-things she has in her hair.Thank you very much indeed, I'm glad you like.

Sweet! The tale of Beren and Luthien is my favorite love story in the series. They looks so peaceful, I would hate to break them apart!Which is unfortunately what happens next...

I must say I was speechless when I first saw this. I've been checking out both yours and Jenny Dolfen's galleries, and you're both fantastic artists. I agree quite a bit with Fergus--your paintings do remind me quite a bit of Alan Lee, though there is nothing wrong with that. Again, you did a wonderful job.
~GeorgiaWell, to be mentioned alongside such amazing artists as Alan Lee and Jenny Dolfen is certainly something I don't take lightly. Thanks so much!

my friend and i like it, but we feel that they are a little pale, like they r lacking in food. also, i happened 2 notice the womans forearm is a little short, but other than those very minor flaws, i love it. so does my campanion. keep up the great work!!!

P.S. we love her dress, especially the sleeves!

That’s beautiful! I especially love the girl!

I love all the details and emotions this picture of them holds. All of Beren’s earlier struggles and sorrows are so clearly etched on his face, yet we can also see the peace that he’s found with Luthien, and with her, we see her compassion and sadness for her beloved’s and his kinsmen’s pain. I also love how alive and wild you’ve made the forest around them; it really looks like how I imagine Neldoreth to look like.