DREAM 06-Steam Constrictor

Project Zodiac
Reoccurring Dream #06- Steam Constrictor

A bizarre steampunk locomotive whose only purpose is to travel to and from sources of water, which it in turn uses to drive its own steam engines.

Its body is made up of a complex series of tubes resembling that of a primitive animals digestive tract, which has lead many to question whether this is indeed a machine or if it is alive. Like the sturdy algaes which accumulate along its steam vents, the constrictor absorbs sunlight through its solar panels which it converts to energy used to heat the internal water chambers.

Like the snake it takes its name from, the steam constrictor too sheds its 'skin' once every 3 months, though it is still a mystery as to how a the new coating appears. Is it painted on? does it grow itself?

The Steam Constrictor is prone to overheating, and despite its numerous vents,fans and heatsinks is incredibly hot to the touch. Burns are possible from both the steam and chassis of this stone and metal creature.

A benign Dream, but an annoyance. The steam constrictor leaves long plumes of fog-like steam in its wake, hindering visibility around danger areas such as water holes. Reduced visibility means an increase in the likelihood that the smaller members of this 'species' may be tripped over or bumped into, causing nasty burns.

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This was a bit of a pain to paint. I initially was just going to do a basic shade as i have loads more creatures to do, but instead i decided it would probably be a good idea to practise painting metal since i never do it. After a while i discovered that this probably wasn't a good time to start experimenting as i only have this week to do digital work as i wont have access to a good enough PC over the next week, with January being the official end of creature design time .

I found it kinda boring to paint because of this. Not wanting to get too into it in case i go overboard, too far along to just do it simple. I wasn't that pleased with how it turned out, but then started to paint on top of what i had, adding the rust and the plants- now i like it .

Its still rough around the edges- some bits probably deserve more detail- but itll do.