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| Go For It!, 5" x 5", graphite, 30 minute drawing series #36 |
The lighting was brilliant sun in an open sky and the photo was shot from across the pool with a mediocre, in-camera, telephoto lens. As with most drawings and paintings done from a photographic reference, the volume needs to be turned up and details that were lost due to distance filled in. While I'm not pleased with the drawing, it did get me to add an HB Berol back into my box. General's #314 is too soft and grainy for this drawing that hinges on the details--I suspect softer than Berol's 6B? So I lightened up. Tomorrow, same challenge, different approach.
As you may have noticed, I haven't been near paint since I got home. I haven't even opened the doors to my studio. I do not want to deal with the Venetian self portrait on the other side. It wore me out so much I've been reading Carol Marine's book, Daily Painting to avoid confrontation; reading about painting small seemed attractive after the grueling 24 by 36 selfie. --Daily goes for anything you wish to do well. Thirty minutes of drawing small every morning will do for now.
Small is good ...But ...I suspect it won't last, small won't contain all that you want to 'say'.
ReplyDeleteLove listening in on your thought process in how to tackle this 'water-baby'.
I loved the last post. You and Ellis looked so happy and at peace with the world ... treasured moments indeed.
No, no, no! Do not misunderstand. Small is fine for 30 minute sketches, drawing exercise, NOT for painting. I'm just reading the book. Carol Marine paints for a different reason than I do. Her format is designed for marketing a quantity of paintings--much like you marketed your phenomenal work via the print market. Marketing is something I think about, but will probably never do. I never wanted painting to become a job. That's the reason I became a designer of architectural interiors when my husband's business went belly up. I noted that she and I had similar life experiences. Now, I'm too old to start another business. As for painting daily, of course. Anything you want to do well requires practicing daily, albeit consistent, hard work.
DeleteEllis and I had a grand time! We hope to do that as long as possible. I know you and Pat feel the same. Happy New year to you both John.
ReplyDeleteYour previous posts and this one show your skill drawing.
Glad you have found a format you like to work on daily. As you said - it doesn't have to take all day long.
Thirty minutes obviously works for you. This cutie of a sketch would take me quite a bit longer.
The book is fascinating isn't it? So diverse. Carol is a born teacher/sharer and can tune in to what most of us need.
Your figure looks pretty fabulous in the photo (previous post) and you and Ellis obviously had a great time.
Hope you both have an amazing 2015.
Thanks Julie, but i'm afraid my figure has gone with the wind. Ellis's too.
DeleteUsing the Sun Torch to brighten winter's long, dark days presented the opportunity to also use the time for drawing. Thirty minutes in front of that light was suggested by my doctor. It was my idea to add drawing to the routine. The daily drawing session has nothing to do with painting daily except to help me find subjects that I might want to paint. This baby in her first sun hat has painting potential.
The book is well written and full of good advice for painters who wish to make painting the source of their livelihood. I enjoyed seeing your work represented and Roger Akesson's. The illustrations are beautifully done.
Happy New Year to you and yours too.
Een schattig geheel zo Linda lieve groetjes Danielle
ReplyDeleteShe was adorable. I couldn't take my eyes off her as she toddled after all her float toys in her fashionable beach bonnet.
DeleteI really like this little sketch! You've captured the essence of this little baby. I must become more disciplined and sketch more. I think your thirty minutes sketches is a great idea.
ReplyDeleteYou should have seen it yesterday! It was a heavy handed dark mess. Today, I lightened up. Thanks Helen. I am enjoying my early morning, first cup of coffee sessions.
DeleteIt is a good plan, and a thirty minute sketch is a good habit, to be continued after you venture to the studio and paint, I trust?
ReplyDeleteSure. What else can I do that makes time in front of that lamp fly? Drawing is a perfect pass-time. In waiting rooms, I like to sketch on my iPad. Using a device makes no one self conscious. People think you're gaming. 😊
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