Every now and then I get around to doing a personal piece - and with all the excitement around Star Wars: Episode VII, I figured I would do a portrait of everyone's favourite astromech droid, R2-D2.

The painting itself is quite big (for me, at least) - 22 x 30 inches. It's always interesting finding ways to translate my digital style into the physical workspace; I definitely learn something new with each new piece.

Here's some process shots - from sketch to finished piece.

The initial small drawing in my sketchbook.

The initial shapes laid down as flat colours. I actually had to sand down my first attempt at laying down the flats, as some of the paint didn't adhere properly.

Further masking and detailing - gradients are added here and there.

Getting into the final details. All of the shapes are masked and cut by hand.