Hi guys

My latest project is a bust of an ANZAC (Australian & New Zealand Army Corps) soldier at Gallipoli 1916.

The bust is intended to represent an Aussie, as it provides two versions of the distinctive Australian slouch hat ( one version with the left side of the brim folded up and the other with the brim flat).

My version will be a Kiwi, so I have to convert the slouch hat to a “lemon squeezer “ hat worn by the New Zealand contingent. As with all things Kiwi, I am consulting with my friend Mike Butler, to ensure historical accuracy. Given he painted the box art for this bust, he’s definitely the right person to talk to.

The head gear is the only difference in the uniform between Australian and New Zealand troops, so the conversion is relatively simple.

I’ll post some SBS pics at various stages of the process to share my progress and techniques.

You can see why they called it the 'lemon squeezer' unusual looking hat, looking forward to your version Tony.
Cheers
Steve

He looks like a very sculpt Tony.
Following your progress with the usual fantastic skill Mate
Keith

Kiwis also wore the slouch hat and peaked cap with neck flap. Depends on regiment that you wish to depicy

Hi guys, thanks for your comments.

Wally, thanks. I’m attempting to convert this Aussie Digger into a Kiwi, specifically a member of the Otago Battalion of the New Zealand Expeditionary Force (NZEF), prior to the reorganisation later in 1916. There’s so few Kiwi figures and busts on the market (apart from Maori) that I wanted this conversion to be identifiably a Kiwi, which is why I’m adding the “lemon squeezer”. I know slouch hats and field caps were also worn, but to me that doesn’t help identify him as a Kiwi.

Fair enough Tony. If you check on line the lemon squeezer did not come into widespread use to 1916.
So the guys in Taranaki started to wear the hat shaped like Mount Taranaki prior to Ww1.
There are quite a number of the Otago Regiment wearing the peaked hat with neck flap.
Of course what makes the slouch hat/lemon squeezer unique to New Zealand is the pugaree which had the corps colours therein. As per your lemon squeezer pic.
Have fun and enjoy

Great to see you back on the brushes Tony.

Cheers Greg

Base coating done in Josonja acrylics. I’ve chosen the greyback shirt rather than a white shirt.
Now onto the face painting. Good times.

Great start Tony, I like you shirt choice, contrasts nicely with the webbing.
Cheers
Steve

Tony so good to see you back in action!
Stoked to see you doing a Kiwi with this bust. It will be a nice tribute to ANZAC Diggers.

I had lot of fun painting this, especially enjoyed trying to get scary, sweat & gungey appearance.
Here’s my efforts for those that may have missed it:
• Work In Progress https://www.planetfigure.com/threads/mikes-gallipoli-digger-bust.101061/
• Completed Boxart https://www.planetfigure.com/threads/mikes-anzac-digger-bust-from-model-cellar.103568/

Miss doing big figures & busts.
I’m sure this will inspire me to have a crack at some before year is out too.
Keep those brushes swishing mate!
MikeTheKiwi

Well it’s been a while since I started this thread and I’ve been plodding along with the face and skin tones. One thing’s for sure, I’m no Mike Butler. I’ve done my best so far, and I have much still to do but I’m certainly aware of my limitations.

Just acrylics so far.

Looks good Tony.
Cheers
Chris

Good to see progress Tony.
Can I make small suggestion mate ref iris
- try a little green in shadow area & lighten highlight to pale blue.
They look bit too much like shirt at present.
Keep it coming mate!
MikeTheKiwi

Cheers Mike, I’m heading into the man cave for another session with the hairy sticks and will certainly follow your advice.

Chris, Nap and Mike,
Thanks again for your comments.

I’ve had a productive session at the workbench, and made some progress.

The shirt has been stippled using a chisel brush to create a slightly rough texture, using Nimbus Grey and French Blue.

I’ve also applied the first black wash around the webbing straps and ammo pouches.

Mike I followed your suggestion of adding green to the iris and some pale light blue. They’re not quite finished but getting better every time I go back and keep working on them.

Great progress Tony
Press on Mate
Keith

Coming along nicely Tony. It'll be up to your usual high standard without doubt.

Cheers
Chris