In some ways I feel like I need to settle down and choose a singular medium. This must come from some rigid thought process held over from college. I don’t know. I am having a lot of fun mixing up materials. However, even when mixing things up, I should probably have some discipline!
I am starting to realize that it is okay to just keep “practicing” and let the mind flow along with the creations. Maybe I need to stop thinking I need to get to something more serious.
9″ x 12″ Charcoal on Paper
Charcoal is something I haven’t used since college. I was surprised at how much I enjoyed working with it, as I really don’t like pastels…maybe the simplicity of black and white is more comfortable for me. I am trying to keep myself occupied because my very best friend, my Big dog is not doing very well. Drawing keeps the mind occupied. Grateful for #sktchy for some nice resources.
This was done in my Strathmore toned paper journal. Magic marker under painting for some subtle color. #sketchbox art supplies that were delivered this month.
Well, the 20 minutes a day did NOT work out. Bad choice in terms of timing I guess. I was hoping to keep up with my portraits, but I just couldn’t make it happen.
I have been behind on my art projects. Summer at work is always busy, hoping that the fall will open up a little more time for me. I do have a new project in process, I am thinking of focusing a lot of my art on ocean themes. I love working on the fish, mermaids and beach scenes. It might help me to narrow some subject matters down and try to be disciplined. However, I am going to continue working on faces, because I am really enjoying that.
So for two weeks I am going to try my best to stick with the #20MinutesADay challenge. I am on day TWO! So far so good. I decided to work on portraits as I am still trying to get better at that. 20 minutes seems to be just the right amount of time, not to little, but not too much! I am hopeful that I can keep it up.
Maybe I will develop a good habit!
I am really loving this new app that I discovered through #sketchbookskool. This is an iPhone app called #sktchy that the users can upload photos to and then anyone can draw them and then upload the drawings. Great way to find some interesting faces and connect with other artist. Drawing faces is a huge challenge for me. I am having fun finding some good expressions. I am going to try and do one a day…that should help me improve!
Oil Paint Sticks: 6 x 9 on paper
More practice with oil paint sticks on paper. I am going to try and stay within 6″ x 9″ and 8″ x 10″ sizes on paper for now. This is a good size to work on to get a piece done within a reasonable time. I think this is a good way to get my technique refined before moving over to larger work. I did get some Shiva oil paint sticks that are not student grade, the color seems to be richer. They are “hard” but that seems to be working to my advantage right now.
Practicing Faces: inspired by Modigliani
My other goal right now is to improve my drawing skills for faces. I have some pieces that I want do that involve things like mermaids and they need to have nice faces! So, I am sketching faces, mostly from expressionist and impressionist painters…I don’t want to get to tied tight with them.
Okay, Selfies are difficult! But, clearly the more you do the better you get. And, I like the fact that you always have an available model. I don’t think I can keep up with one a day, but maybe one a week!
This is me really concentrating in the mirror. Graphite on paper. Tense!
For now, it’s Friday and time to move on to the next lesson. Love #sketchbookskool
Art Projects 