3/28/10 UPDATE: I spent way, way too much time on lettering OLD CROW. And it still isn't right. So, in an effort to give me some success today, I made a little mask for the nose and created a nifty reflection on the spinner by pure accident. It's perfect!
"OLD CROW" may well be the most modeled, photographed and rendered P-51 ever. Little wonder - her pilot, C.E. "Bud" Anderson, is a legend. Ace, gentleman, test pilot and proud American, Bud is the kind of guy anyone can look up to...especially me. He was the first WW2 pilot I interviewed and the experience was so rewarding, I was compelled to keep talking to others.
Anyway, given the choice, Bud suggested I do his B model before it was marked up with "invasion stripes" - the broad black & white bars used to indicate Allied aircraft during and shortly after the D-Day invasion of June 6, 1944.
There are so many better artists out there (Salute Troy White) and surely, the world doesn't need my shlock cluttering up the place. But this particular finished piece will be used to raise money for the local chapter of Honor Flight. On its own, my art is at best a doodle. But with the pilot's signature, it becomes History. The opportunity to be a part of this event is truly an honor.
But, I have a question for readers: Should I do the drop tanks or leave them off? On one hand, the drop tanks signify the Mustang's ability to reach far into Nazi territory, providing valuable escort for the 8th Air Force bombers. On the other hand, the tanks would mess up the interesting lines of the P-51, specifically the fuselage scoop.
What say ya'll? Let me know - office21@mac.com
Hurry though. I've got two more planes to do for this event!
