This Month's Virtual Sketch Date - a simple, peeled tangerine. I thought I'd give it a try, BUT attempt a style that I admire, but have the most difficult time doing and/or achieving. I thought if I eliminated the pencil line drawing (which I LOVE), I'd get a more looser approach -- and I think I did. (Though I have to admit, my hands were atingle just 'itching' for that pencil!!!)
For me, this 'style' is so counter-intuitive and difficult. It required far more thinking AHEAD -- where in many cases, I'm 'thinking' through my painting process WITH a pencil. In this case, the thought had to be 'firmed up' before brush hit paper -- more time in my mind than on the paper. And probably a good thing.
I learned (and continue to learn) how to draw only 3 1/2 years ago, and to me, using the pencil continues that learning process, and probably my dependence on it. As I learned to watercolor at the same time, combining the two seemed a natural thing to do.
With a bit more experience under my belt, I'm wondering how to lessen one or the other to achieve that elusive 'more spontaneous' look I love, yet seems to elude me on a consistent basis. This nagging 'style' thing seems to come up several times each year ... so I"m wondering if it's simply an internal push to try new things and move to the next level for what I"m doing artwise.
I'll play a bit more, think even more. Any recommendations or suggetions, books concerning this or ideas, would be greatly appreciated. Maybe it's simply a process that I need to work through, and I shouldn't worry about it ... but it sure has my mind 'engaged' ....! LOL
Today is a workday for me -- I simply must get more writing done. With three 'snow days' this week, I'm way behind. But the temps are going to be higher than normal -- in the mid 50sF! So I may just have to take a walk in the slush later today to clear my mind from both writing and style issues!
Have a great day!
7 comments:
Loved reading your self-reflections re: pencil and slow drawing and the search for looseness and shaking up your own work and style. Since we started at exactly the same time and have been on parallel journeys, I really identified with your post today. Enjoy the "warm" day.
You did a fantastic job on this. I understand the need for the pencil in your hand; mine is the pen and I feel lost without it.
It turned out lovely Lin and just as I would have expected without pencil lines. So I think you need to give yourself a big pat on the back. My lessons started with a pencil too and I just CANNOT draw; I can't "see" in dimensions. My advice is to just play play play, very loosely, with only brushes; first trying not to make anything specific until you are comfortable making loose strokes. Then try making simple shapes and then go on to more specific ones. With your ability to conquer new techniques it won't take you long and judging by today's post, I think you are already there!!!
Hugs,
Lorraine
I've tried sketching directly with a pen but have never painted without sketching first. I rely on the pencil (and the eraser) far too much. You did very well without the pencil. This came out great! That was a brave thing to try...good for you!
Just wonderful Lin.... it is a truly fantastic etching... Loved it
Have a great weekend
(((HUGS)))
Donna
Tangerine is lovely... and I've seen all kinds of artistic ventures going on with you..... I think you're moving toward your goal much faster than you realize! Your art is fab.... and getting fabber all the time! LOL!!
I'd never have know this was a total brush painting, Lin. You have wonderful control with that brush. It is inspiring to see you constantly pushing and testing yourself and proof positive that putting in the work bears fruit - pardon the pun!
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