tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15899193658054467872024-03-12T18:47:35.532-07:00Creating Art- sharing inspiration, ideas, process, discoveries, reflectionsTod Evanshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15888236635332828208noreply@blogger.comBlogger66125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1589919365805446787.post-65612449654714983452016-02-28T05:22:00.003-08:002016-02-28T05:24:21.020-08:00Getting Back to Blogging...<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgn66dqVQ0SQmgCaixLMksu2Y4Cc7bS-72T4Wdto7ImP_72ZrywmO49lbs4qjqg3BDmj7olegmA6pPywCB1988R1DpQKZzPNjhdBrzUiKl3s7WPyCYJG39v9rBvEXxF7Mx0NNwMclMrjSM/s1600/20160214_133349.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="" border="0" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgn66dqVQ0SQmgCaixLMksu2Y4Cc7bS-72T4Wdto7ImP_72ZrywmO49lbs4qjqg3BDmj7olegmA6pPywCB1988R1DpQKZzPNjhdBrzUiKl3s7WPyCYJG39v9rBvEXxF7Mx0NNwMclMrjSM/s400/20160214_133349.jpg" title="Spring, Tod Evans " width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Spring... a time of renewal.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
It seems that cycles of writing regular blog posts interspersed with weeks/months of being incommunicado affect many bloggers, and unfortunately I am no exception. Apologies. It is not due to being inactive on the art front... in fact the pause often happens initially because of a very active phase and not having the time and energy. Then it becomes harder to get going again. So a very quick update and then I will move on and re-commit to this blog as I do love the way it can act as an online diary and record of a life in art, while at the same time inspiring others, hopefully. <br />
<br />
If you pop onto my page for Art Events & Teaching you will notice that I am running regular classes and workshops throughout this year at Norfolk Creative Arts, an exciting new venue in Grimston, West Norfolk. There are a wide variety of tutors, subjects and media so if you wish to investigate visit <a href="http://www.norfolkcreativearts.co.uk/">www.norfolkcreativearts.co.uk</a> and there is sure to be something to tempt you!<br />
<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjjOchDCOFW_ASgrFUPzcLfW7FGx3DadgjMBLPM3JIYmjdCcloyds6_NLrMF_NIubZtHOIrgLdfM46acM4TfVZYU2_eGbIu6jsljgnnpOmK3BkJ4z27SD3nv-vLxe2ut4G1kYoTn2KmdV0/s1600/NCA+Spring+2016+class+image%252C+Tod+Evans.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="236" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjjOchDCOFW_ASgrFUPzcLfW7FGx3DadgjMBLPM3JIYmjdCcloyds6_NLrMF_NIubZtHOIrgLdfM46acM4TfVZYU2_eGbIu6jsljgnnpOmK3BkJ4z27SD3nv-vLxe2ut4G1kYoTn2KmdV0/s400/NCA+Spring+2016+class+image%252C+Tod+Evans.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Spring Term Wednesday Weekly Mixed Media Classes <br />
at Norfolk Creative Arts are now in full swing! </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
Aside from all the planning for these classes I am also busy with personal artwork as a joint exhibition with another artist is looming on the horizon in May. More details will follow in the next few weeks but we are both creating mostly new work for it and the beautiful village hall in Thornham is quite spacious, so the pressure is beginning to mount.<br />
<br />
Some images of work that may be included in the upcoming exhibition...<br />
<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiVj68U4geuR3gwoAkJ4l2yS7RUi1HEQCvtFYXPavnVEN3ngh_5bdP94Um6IER190ouJ_439-h83jNfd6YizzNUbPZqbwsL3DGi1BmWNwwZzZNXNyOUNEGwE9Ufk_7XWYhb1vw3JkHJppM/s1600/20160209_155835.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="" border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiVj68U4geuR3gwoAkJ4l2yS7RUi1HEQCvtFYXPavnVEN3ngh_5bdP94Um6IER190ouJ_439-h83jNfd6YizzNUbPZqbwsL3DGi1BmWNwwZzZNXNyOUNEGwE9Ufk_7XWYhb1vw3JkHJppM/s640/20160209_155835.jpg" title="Woodland (North Wootton), compressed charcoal & white pastel, Tod Evans 2016 " width="360" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Woodland (North Wootton) in compressed charcoal & white pastel <span style="font-size: 12.8px;">© Tod Evans</span><br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<o:p></o:p></div>
</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhkLoAbEBI-9vYPiPhyQ4o2vrOT_GvqfOtI8_YyZbDtv04WszKPGery70RqX8gEibNtlIxaJW9-JfJ08DO7Rf6a7Gv_lxjdBd87KgRDY3wHSmuyOecCBBeer8eJevLryQxrCa8rBZf4Mww/s1600/Animation+of+Barn+Owl+in+Watercolour+%2526+Charcoal+%25C2%25A9Tod+Evans.gif" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhkLoAbEBI-9vYPiPhyQ4o2vrOT_GvqfOtI8_YyZbDtv04WszKPGery70RqX8gEibNtlIxaJW9-JfJ08DO7Rf6a7Gv_lxjdBd87KgRDY3wHSmuyOecCBBeer8eJevLryQxrCa8rBZf4Mww/s640/Animation+of+Barn+Owl+in+Watercolour+%2526+Charcoal+%25C2%25A9Tod+Evans.gif" width="360" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Barn Owl, using limited watercolour palette and charcoal pencil<br />
- a quick animation here to show you how it built up...</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgiDb38KhkodFrTak6ESpqm59h8lLr9V5q_30C-szJnTPs_Wg9LIGSFe5hsiGmuVlRFPNr87ALMWNdy14XgiHxAFNiJOcmYpYhuUIBINlfMpv9yuNm7tFT8R-5T4u3GxxfmHP_i-Lkedas/s1600/20160125_173125.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="" border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgiDb38KhkodFrTak6ESpqm59h8lLr9V5q_30C-szJnTPs_Wg9LIGSFe5hsiGmuVlRFPNr87ALMWNdy14XgiHxAFNiJOcmYpYhuUIBINlfMpv9yuNm7tFT8R-5T4u3GxxfmHP_i-Lkedas/s400/20160125_173125.jpg" title="Teasels, pencil, gesso & acrylic, Tod Evans 2016" width="276" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Close crop of Teasels in pencil, white gesso and acrylic
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
© Tod Evans<o:p></o:p></div>
</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhC4_3a-yq_MUozthhzYYMH3uxqWKktOF7ranwcNEJRdRJDmO0G8KeHpNbgCaL3I3a7hH2pSmIo7g9QqF9VHMTiufDxdaPXHdy0XajDff4t0p7Zsz2V_wlddOWcNppV2FLCpdhw2w1EXtU/s1600/Watercolour+seascape+collage%252C+Feb+2016.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="" border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhC4_3a-yq_MUozthhzYYMH3uxqWKktOF7ranwcNEJRdRJDmO0G8KeHpNbgCaL3I3a7hH2pSmIo7g9QqF9VHMTiufDxdaPXHdy0XajDff4t0p7Zsz2V_wlddOWcNppV2FLCpdhw2w1EXtU/s400/Watercolour+seascape+collage%252C+Feb+2016.jpg" title="Seascape, watercolour, gouache & Inktense pencil, Tod Evans 2016" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Views of seascape in watercolour, gouache & Inktense pencil <br />
as it built up <span style="font-size: 12.8px;">© Tod Evans</span><br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<o:p></o:p></div>
</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhgFYpb6S7giB7XSLcb9cUnLnhsupkJ5-Ht-jSkwlyqHrOdZTohKmtraPbcGo-xzWwkGdQTuihTfZm0bYBrUPjspZjp8BMP0wDxQZzKbAYOpfp_llaHA_YHuenPlgWVeNqJla65-3ciIO0/s1600/2016-01-28+17.00.08%25281%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="" border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhgFYpb6S7giB7XSLcb9cUnLnhsupkJ5-Ht-jSkwlyqHrOdZTohKmtraPbcGo-xzWwkGdQTuihTfZm0bYBrUPjspZjp8BMP0wDxQZzKbAYOpfp_llaHA_YHuenPlgWVeNqJla65-3ciIO0/s400/2016-01-28+17.00.08%25281%2529.jpg" title="Roydon Common, acrylic palette knife painting, Tod Evans 2016" width="248" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Roydon painted in acrylic with palette knife<br />
<span style="font-size: 12.8px;">© Tod Evans</span><br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<o:p></o:p></div>
</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1IpLS2Fb08L8am52DMcjk-tbELSJBYk_WEdY_s1kt34xh3PagVmj-R-2dk8pQKaoxHD6XwGK-H9tgtYyirhH62TVNZNmNOWa1_8WG6ycumZ-0aulwRPgmpmWoU0HTahHtY9ZVm_QvPrs/s1600/Seascape%252C+Hunstanton%252C+Feb+2016+%25284%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="" border="0" height="315" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1IpLS2Fb08L8am52DMcjk-tbELSJBYk_WEdY_s1kt34xh3PagVmj-R-2dk8pQKaoxHD6XwGK-H9tgtYyirhH62TVNZNmNOWa1_8WG6ycumZ-0aulwRPgmpmWoU0HTahHtY9ZVm_QvPrs/s400/Seascape%252C+Hunstanton%252C+Feb+2016+%25284%2529.jpg" title="Old Hunstanton seascape, acrylic on canvas, Tod Evans 2016" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The beach at Old Hunstanton in acrylic <span style="font-size: 12.8px;">© Tod Evans</span><br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<o:p></o:p></div>
</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<br />
So a little sneak peak at some of the contenders to be included, there are works still in progress (not shown) and I am excited about work yet to be created! Will keep you posted on new developments but if you are in Norfolk over the weekend of 14th and 15th May, 2016 we would love to see you at our exhibition <i>Into the Woods & Beyond </i>to be held in Thornham Village Hall, PE36 6LX.<br />
<br />
Sketchbook work continues as well, and possibly may be included for perusal... <br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixBW135-EyQjlH1STTkmyHnCpuGMfSgACgz-PrsYS89vJCNI4RbBB5sF2uA0tm3dDfG3TgutzDxUG0-CqtlNTwOaCz8L7LSrhG36fh-iO6w7JDOhdyXbuUgCO70aZTFARbNFGqUtL7dB4/s1600/Trees%252C+Quink+ink+%2526+watercolour%252C+Feb+2016+%25289%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" border="0" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixBW135-EyQjlH1STTkmyHnCpuGMfSgACgz-PrsYS89vJCNI4RbBB5sF2uA0tm3dDfG3TgutzDxUG0-CqtlNTwOaCz8L7LSrhG36fh-iO6w7JDOhdyXbuUgCO70aZTFARbNFGqUtL7dB4/s320/Trees%252C+Quink+ink+%2526+watercolour%252C+Feb+2016+%25289%2529.jpg" title="Trees, Quink Ink & watercolour, sketchbook" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGfnx2StMx7r9g6wjsWebkwOG4nh-8-aLMy_NjmwUm1Pw1Sen7_lga3OZSBvTopvYCFaWv71CJyTbS7bK5nDsC9sXchII3NhqLABTWcR0lMWvKvhEvyV-Ow5_vGzJne5ttgr14wj7OjYQ/s1600/2015-11-18+18.25.40.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" border="0" height="236" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGfnx2StMx7r9g6wjsWebkwOG4nh-8-aLMy_NjmwUm1Pw1Sen7_lga3OZSBvTopvYCFaWv71CJyTbS7bK5nDsC9sXchII3NhqLABTWcR0lMWvKvhEvyV-Ow5_vGzJne5ttgr14wj7OjYQ/s320/2015-11-18+18.25.40.jpg" title="Trees in Sandringham, sketchbook" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhYSijwBJCwlNepUMySFBvsSYAKu18LW3Rl6DSwm2_8OUSDuHck41uJUwmqvF4CfT8nI5ABRMI6Mb086eLVvH7z5oe0Fmm1_3e_NNe9E-CFiScW5coRq3y645WNzSwYkZ8nqfutJEvLPFY/s1600/20160213_135239.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="" border="0" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhYSijwBJCwlNepUMySFBvsSYAKu18LW3Rl6DSwm2_8OUSDuHck41uJUwmqvF4CfT8nI5ABRMI6Mb086eLVvH7z5oe0Fmm1_3e_NNe9E-CFiScW5coRq3y645WNzSwYkZ8nqfutJEvLPFY/s320/20160213_135239.jpg" title="Acrylic seascape Old Hunstanton in sketchbook" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Sketchbook work continues...</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
Finally, a recent exhibition visited by myself and family was <i>Painting the Modern Garden: Monet to Matisse </i>at the Royal Academy in London. There was (and is) a close connection between many artists and their gardens and it's natural that they wished to explore ways of depicting the colours, shapes and features, often working in them as outdoor studios. Monet is the key artist in this fine exhibition but there are examples by Caillebotte, Pissaro, renoir, matisse, Van Gogh, Klimt, Bonard etc. Also some artists I had not encountered before, Joaquin Sorolla being one and I plan to research more about him. It is Monet, however, who resonates the most and the work inspired by his lily pond is sublime. Despite over exposure on packaging and household items over the years, to see the paintings in real life is to fall in love with them all over again. The fusions of colour, the abstraction of motifs and the free brushwork is totally absorbing. The finale, the triptych, in the last room is breathtaking - the sheer scale - so that as a viewer you are compelled to move up close and study the fragmented textures and colours before stepping back right back to appreciate the whole again. Like a little dance forwards and backwards we go repeatedly, drinking in the artwork with the senses. I really did not want to leave that painting and having visited Monet's garden in Giverny it is as relevant today as it has ever been.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjo233FL0B-w2m63hVxAnqvX2f85dQBbifx32njpsU7Kl76QzJhqDB6R0h9H9bPhyyu_pKU_t69teSczFez1Rj97Jc-ESrw2FT0J_c1qcdW34FX0YnTNucwwveEFOxuBRDO92jXRMZcOVc/s1600/IMG_20160218_192257.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="" border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjo233FL0B-w2m63hVxAnqvX2f85dQBbifx32njpsU7Kl76QzJhqDB6R0h9H9bPhyyu_pKU_t69teSczFez1Rj97Jc-ESrw2FT0J_c1qcdW34FX0YnTNucwwveEFOxuBRDO92jXRMZcOVc/s400/IMG_20160218_192257.jpg" title="Exhibition banners, RA #moderngarden " width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Superb exhibition, well worth a visit.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<br />
The exhibition runs until April 20th so I encourage you to go and see it if possible!<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />Tod Evanshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15888236635332828208noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1589919365805446787.post-56345910305184081532015-09-08T18:00:00.000-07:002015-09-08T18:00:21.579-07:00Sketching Birds at Pensthorpe <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiSAZcRO3CFAsd3rZsNMqiL_L1UVku-yGK73ClamcCIOit-9fia2LcH1CyyIDQlbyvXsjCdxgYkxXQjvRSSlJhUn_PszM3A_xEfTVV4fg1rzDecACAevF3eovseoSaH2JalKtHJaIWzU3U/s1600/Pensthorpe+workshop+with+tutor+Mark+Boyd%252C+Sept+2015+%25287%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiSAZcRO3CFAsd3rZsNMqiL_L1UVku-yGK73ClamcCIOit-9fia2LcH1CyyIDQlbyvXsjCdxgYkxXQjvRSSlJhUn_PszM3A_xEfTVV4fg1rzDecACAevF3eovseoSaH2JalKtHJaIWzU3U/s400/Pensthorpe+workshop+with+tutor+Mark+Boyd%252C+Sept+2015+%25287%2529.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
Yesterday I had the pleasure of being a student again on a workshop at Pensthorpe Natural Park tutored by Mark Boyd for the company Art Safari <a href="http://www.artsafari.co.uk/">www.artsafari.co.uk</a>. It was a small group so Mark was able to give each of us plenty of support and encouragement, plus he was extremely knowledgeable about the species that we studied. He suggested we first look for the oval head shape and direction of the beak, then at the body which he likened to the shape of an avocado pear. He touched on the subject of bird anatomy so we could envisage the fact that most of the leg was within the body and what we consider the knee is actually the equivalent of the ankle. It was important to observe closely the leg positions so that our drawn birds would convincingly stand up with their weight balanced. Quite tricky when many birds at rest or dozing stood on one leg!<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBtjO3COyR17aR_PuPUh9X1Ob1z2yks3ROQSv9M2krIIemSyNlkd2D44bY_bviCaZgp3n-KADhmMuUPVMFi-SHuz7t2vFtYk1POe7eTFGVSHZnk1lDJArF5CeYZlZbEG740B0PbGYnP-4/s1600/Pensthorpe+workshop+with+tutor+Mark+Boyd%252C+Sept+2015+%25288%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBtjO3COyR17aR_PuPUh9X1Ob1z2yks3ROQSv9M2krIIemSyNlkd2D44bY_bviCaZgp3n-KADhmMuUPVMFi-SHuz7t2vFtYk1POe7eTFGVSHZnk1lDJArF5CeYZlZbEG740B0PbGYnP-4/s400/Pensthorpe+workshop+with+tutor+Mark+Boyd%252C+Sept+2015+%25288%2529.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I started my sketches in an 8 x 8" hardback sketchbook using a stick of charcoal.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEini3NnZNhLbpXFZ-igmDy1G6-LlDbU-FkXiNPCIEHpwcg5xhas-JxNF_JKuOxlAquEq0KZgvU0v4Zg0sHbHRMw8IzrK-FEnEdA4-yhfKx9G5nj20DJxNYjseugKvuiQQ_Hk2YMSZpTiS8/s1600/Pensthorpe+workshop+with+tutor+Mark+Boyd%252C+Sept+2015+%25289%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEini3NnZNhLbpXFZ-igmDy1G6-LlDbU-FkXiNPCIEHpwcg5xhas-JxNF_JKuOxlAquEq0KZgvU0v4Zg0sHbHRMw8IzrK-FEnEdA4-yhfKx9G5nj20DJxNYjseugKvuiQQ_Hk2YMSZpTiS8/s400/Pensthorpe+workshop+with+tutor+Mark+Boyd%252C+Sept+2015+%25289%2529.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">For the next page I switched to a black Inktense stick as the smudgy charcoal<br />irritated me. The avocets were stunning and so elegant. <br />Also was delighted to catch sight of the bearded tit in the dense reeds, <br />but no chance to try sketching these small elusive shy birds. </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjQc653cTdxFT5jKKwboMbTKnY_m0cghkUxnbLXOT6QyahYLTEy1AvYmsXPwR_qcsCk0wzIs085CrKzCrLaZHG8KVriPkO30dpvdoElAtLfqgztyIKhME_N3Ik_i6ooP88RjDC5YQ5iM0/s1600/Pensthorpe+workshop+with+tutor+Mark+Boyd%252C+Sept+2015+%252810%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="228" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjQc653cTdxFT5jKKwboMbTKnY_m0cghkUxnbLXOT6QyahYLTEy1AvYmsXPwR_qcsCk0wzIs085CrKzCrLaZHG8KVriPkO30dpvdoElAtLfqgztyIKhME_N3Ik_i6ooP88RjDC5YQ5iM0/s400/Pensthorpe+workshop+with+tutor+Mark+Boyd%252C+Sept+2015+%252810%2529.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Over the page again and now using a graphite pencil stick,<br /> holding it with an overhand gentle grip and broad sweeps before<br />adopting the traditional 'writing pen' position for more controlled fine <br />lines to add definition to the shapes in selected areas.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYIUO7gS7z8s5swkoLB3QtsOKP4B_E05AEaTLMtfRz1RotfPkPOA8LnsMPGJ7dFbPauJHA9nB2a3Tu7kPYRH8cPjRyFM3OArNXbofuXthSHObpPKHfCM4SKS3HDxexlgu8RlwLAfOcOCk/s1600/Pensthorpe+workshop+with+tutor+Mark+Boyd%252C+Sept+2015+%252811%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYIUO7gS7z8s5swkoLB3QtsOKP4B_E05AEaTLMtfRz1RotfPkPOA8LnsMPGJ7dFbPauJHA9nB2a3Tu7kPYRH8cPjRyFM3OArNXbofuXthSHObpPKHfCM4SKS3HDxexlgu8RlwLAfOcOCk/s400/Pensthorpe+workshop+with+tutor+Mark+Boyd%252C+Sept+2015+%252811%2529.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Continued with the graphite pencil stick. <br />The long spindly legs of so many of the wading birds are fascinating. </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgdRvdQYfvWEjKi4nwIIC_0t85xJQC-rebV3rWHPDaqcjEBJm48AVa444YFfOdEPw9tZQ7_BuWfd-W4MiwcTbN5e1yaCE6Qkz_Pcg1uHfZBL3cX8NbMWd_X00OS3ppcsHvDH9K9wRwJcL4/s1600/Pensthorpe+workshop+with+tutor+Mark+Boyd%252C+Sept+2015+%252812%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgdRvdQYfvWEjKi4nwIIC_0t85xJQC-rebV3rWHPDaqcjEBJm48AVa444YFfOdEPw9tZQ7_BuWfd-W4MiwcTbN5e1yaCE6Qkz_Pcg1uHfZBL3cX8NbMWd_X00OS3ppcsHvDH9K9wRwJcL4/s400/Pensthorpe+workshop+with+tutor+Mark+Boyd%252C+Sept+2015+%252812%2529.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Pencil.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1_MAGII0RDH6C1Vue7aysLaeYyNkKnmZgflob6LJZj0WoFg65a1n1YQRYCXtpmzq73I0BdJDHgw5ZBsT4REwYU_cBZp4U_8hfet3nThRilJOvx9bgwvsqLmAH_2YdtrZOTAzud_W2mVA/s1600/Pensthorpe+workshop+with+tutor+Mark+Boyd%252C+Sept+2015+%252813%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1_MAGII0RDH6C1Vue7aysLaeYyNkKnmZgflob6LJZj0WoFg65a1n1YQRYCXtpmzq73I0BdJDHgw5ZBsT4REwYU_cBZp4U_8hfet3nThRilJOvx9bgwvsqLmAH_2YdtrZOTAzud_W2mVA/s400/Pensthorpe+workshop+with+tutor+Mark+Boyd%252C+Sept+2015+%252813%2529.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Here I was looking at movement and in the lower right half of the page <br />I attempted to record various positions of a single avocet preening.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhMV9yNAjQhUaLN_9bXBS1TMXCnYpKde0VSm4gnVdKvABGA4vrfozGDK6qYWhYTCETsQvVOR6dvXMHVFkIjknpQkoFydyypJCx7OYGGOTpL4V0CVZfKvDYaz_YOhn28q_0gMoaCv2KghLU/s1600/Pensthorpe+workshop+with+tutor+Mark+Boyd%252C+Sept+2015+%252815%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhMV9yNAjQhUaLN_9bXBS1TMXCnYpKde0VSm4gnVdKvABGA4vrfozGDK6qYWhYTCETsQvVOR6dvXMHVFkIjknpQkoFydyypJCx7OYGGOTpL4V0CVZfKvDYaz_YOhn28q_0gMoaCv2KghLU/s400/Pensthorpe+workshop+with+tutor+Mark+Boyd%252C+Sept+2015+%252815%2529.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I switch medium again and try a black brush pen for the bird on the far left. <br />It felt a bit scratchy on the paper so changed to an Edding pen but that too<br />didn't flow smoothly and seemed a bit dried up.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<br />
At this point it was lunchtime and we all retired to the spacious cafeteria for hot drinks and a meal. It was only on stopping that I realised how chilly I had become while sat in one position on a little sketching stool, despite being well dressed for the overcast weather. It was enjoyable chatting and getting to know one another a bit better and to find out more about our different backgrounds and art experiences.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg28z3_a45L7S2psxu-smgL2afPpQhUAvm40WgOXDjTJOiA-qpxJVreElWIUh46ib46gK8GlAf_2TIKLAi5DZLgGZ1i7Zc-i-3CGsLXi0ipyUmAr0-nMCN9CwgM1r4PUPG4xS5ZAH5Oi-4/s1600/Pensthorpe+workshop+with+tutor+Mark+Boyd%252C+Sept+2015+%252816%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg28z3_a45L7S2psxu-smgL2afPpQhUAvm40WgOXDjTJOiA-qpxJVreElWIUh46ib46gK8GlAf_2TIKLAi5DZLgGZ1i7Zc-i-3CGsLXi0ipyUmAr0-nMCN9CwgM1r4PUPG4xS5ZAH5Oi-4/s400/Pensthorpe+workshop+with+tutor+Mark+Boyd%252C+Sept+2015+%252816%2529.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">After lunch we moved back out and chose a different area to work in <br />with other bird species. We were encouraged to work with wet media<br />in the afternoon and I had fun loosening up by using my new black Elegant Writer pen.<br />It is really a fibre tip pen for calligraphy but is increasingly being used by artists<br />as when water is introduced to the penwork beautiful greens and pinks appear<br />as the pigments separate, an effect reminiscent of my much loved Quink ink. <br />(Thank you Sue and Kay for introducing me to these pens).<br /></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiRXwtsWs28nq_HxXjVIYRUuITRPXlHIaEzr4A2so89m8zlEzpKmxkG3LOYkREtAzYJb7oip1K2NW837DywlJSvKFtQFzW5cStQQ9hyphenhyphensbsywwVVCC2j47I1l0azu1TigpJ3wHDT2j_5hHI/s1600/Pensthorpe+workshop+with+tutor+Mark+Boyd%252C+Sept+2015+%25282%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiRXwtsWs28nq_HxXjVIYRUuITRPXlHIaEzr4A2so89m8zlEzpKmxkG3LOYkREtAzYJb7oip1K2NW837DywlJSvKFtQFzW5cStQQ9hyphenhyphensbsywwVVCC2j47I1l0azu1TigpJ3wHDT2j_5hHI/s400/Pensthorpe+workshop+with+tutor+Mark+Boyd%252C+Sept+2015+%25282%2529.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I loved these storks standing on one leg with their powerful long beaks <br />nestled into their long white chest feathers.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhB6xJ8AFuo1GggQNj_d0BFRODMyIpSg2HsCfV6EH_RYpKH9VpfhuIk6dUOcn7dr3e1O0XOzyCnJrAm2V4ksd0fq-_apnLPpCnTnkX2ABz46mNfyeo2i0e2eY315O2L_JqRaUAlyW_swWc/s1600/Pensthorpe+workshop+with+tutor+Mark+Boyd%252C+Sept+2015+%252817%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhB6xJ8AFuo1GggQNj_d0BFRODMyIpSg2HsCfV6EH_RYpKH9VpfhuIk6dUOcn7dr3e1O0XOzyCnJrAm2V4ksd0fq-_apnLPpCnTnkX2ABz46mNfyeo2i0e2eY315O2L_JqRaUAlyW_swWc/s400/Pensthorpe+workshop+with+tutor+Mark+Boyd%252C+Sept+2015+%252817%2529.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Bar-Headed geese with the Elegant Writer pen, <br />water was introduced with a water filled brush pen.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDs0ojxpIHGcg4pHW4NoSiSN-GQ21Tdu01JFXA2R0RQkyiKsjVQ01BGtKh8h4qf-UZfK8FRDYc3fZ_LP9z2Z4k7ktnK_HxxJLbyNtoA8RQ2zsRpss-Qj40slzApouoWTsgUeihbC5KZbM/s1600/Pensthorpe+workshop+with+tutor+Mark+Boyd%252C+Sept+2015+%252818%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDs0ojxpIHGcg4pHW4NoSiSN-GQ21Tdu01JFXA2R0RQkyiKsjVQ01BGtKh8h4qf-UZfK8FRDYc3fZ_LP9z2Z4k7ktnK_HxxJLbyNtoA8RQ2zsRpss-Qj40slzApouoWTsgUeihbC5KZbM/s400/Pensthorpe+workshop+with+tutor+Mark+Boyd%252C+Sept+2015+%252818%2529.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">It was now time to move into more colour... initially I tried Inktense sticks <br />but for the afternoon I had decided to work in an A3 watercolour ringbound sketchbook<br />and the pigment caught on the texture of the paper and was reluctant to soften and dilute<br />smoothly even when water applied with a paintbrush. <br />There was only one thing to do - bring out the watercolours!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8yrSHbcK16TEnXnQF220Fz71x22WhTBY4Qj3aMuh6fLd5Hi0LvvVvmP1I8mYCiMIsK6X7fPM2n0tY1Gb0WbzInyA-VDgLr_AKWzXPuOzryq6743siUZw1ROyVfz7f-U8wO-gkN4vaTgM/s1600/Pensthorpe+workshop+with+tutor+Mark+Boyd%252C+Sept+2015+%252819%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8yrSHbcK16TEnXnQF220Fz71x22WhTBY4Qj3aMuh6fLd5Hi0LvvVvmP1I8mYCiMIsK6X7fPM2n0tY1Gb0WbzInyA-VDgLr_AKWzXPuOzryq6743siUZw1ROyVfz7f-U8wO-gkN4vaTgM/s400/Pensthorpe+workshop+with+tutor+Mark+Boyd%252C+Sept+2015+%252819%2529.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Unfortunately I didn't make a note of what this duck/goose is, <br />but the watercolour is a composite of several birds as they assumed the same position<br />while milling about right at our feet. The other little pencil drawing <br />was of a single duck who promptly disappeared towards the lake, not to be seen again! <br />As it was the vibrant splash of red on his beak which attracted me I put that in to remind me. </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgs6qU_B9L3-VtTMBkC9kB1yFulOm7Tl1nw2tulka7vopLpvIoP5a0jQiWT2KtIVTEZkJc9lp785-nofvgYl453b3RUeyYVTiSoROdIdP54zrbpXwThB-DBG98dOwBsFx7z1-wilNGVFNQ/s1600/Pensthorpe+workshop+with+tutor+Mark+Boyd%252C+Sept+2015+%252820%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgs6qU_B9L3-VtTMBkC9kB1yFulOm7Tl1nw2tulka7vopLpvIoP5a0jQiWT2KtIVTEZkJc9lp785-nofvgYl453b3RUeyYVTiSoROdIdP54zrbpXwThB-DBG98dOwBsFx7z1-wilNGVFNQ/s400/Pensthorpe+workshop+with+tutor+Mark+Boyd%252C+Sept+2015+%252820%2529.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Back to the stork, in watercolour this time. <br />A light drizzle caused little starburst speckles in the drying wash,</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgvjQLWfcjD_WLGovBmoVPu1L33RnMaq5qlwJqiN8rAtgynxujidbBBrL709vm0IwaM5fP0ZP5pJgobk1bQ0EhemUFCxOlnQZfC2Lnb1X0pd2O7w-0osB_nW0MAxkneq9HayG-kYdER8Gs/s1600/Pensthorpe+workshop+with+tutor+Mark+Boyd%252C+Sept+2015+%252822%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgvjQLWfcjD_WLGovBmoVPu1L33RnMaq5qlwJqiN8rAtgynxujidbBBrL709vm0IwaM5fP0ZP5pJgobk1bQ0EhemUFCxOlnQZfC2Lnb1X0pd2O7w-0osB_nW0MAxkneq9HayG-kYdER8Gs/s400/Pensthorpe+workshop+with+tutor+Mark+Boyd%252C+Sept+2015+%252822%2529.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">As my eye tuned into the smaller compact shapes of some of the ducks I decided <br />to try capturing their shapes purely in watercolour, no pencil drawing first. To finish <br />off we were encouraged to think about showing a group of birds and I returned <br />to the speedy pencil lines to do this, see lower left. </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
What a fabulous day. We absorbed lots of information and remained focused as we tried to record our observations of the shapes and movements of a variety of birds. To close the day we gathered together back in the cafeteria. Hot drinks all round again as we discussed our experiences and then Mark quickly showed us some of his work to reinforce some of the teaching points but also to encourage us to consider different ways of working even when outdoors and working from life - collage or even monoprinting. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Maybe you will be inspired to look more closely at the birds visiting your garden, or on a local village pond? Get the sketchbook out and give it a go. I know I will be attempting more bird drawings very soon, hopefully now with more success than in the past.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
Tod Evanshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15888236635332828208noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1589919365805446787.post-63642748982113160512015-08-22T19:22:00.000-07:002015-08-22T19:22:26.914-07:00Experimenting with Colours and Techniques<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6Oa4kAkxrIaXJq8dlOzyRAUvzIQOG8ZDi6nLmo_u99CYqe_ugsVbU0gUYIhD9l-N2gU1HTsuGwsGLXXB9ik_4z9WDeH6L8Vs6uyaZLhv3BeGpWacQ5V601zDvc9tTomRcOJIFbchHSbg/s1600/20150822_165354.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6Oa4kAkxrIaXJq8dlOzyRAUvzIQOG8ZDi6nLmo_u99CYqe_ugsVbU0gUYIhD9l-N2gU1HTsuGwsGLXXB9ik_4z9WDeH6L8Vs6uyaZLhv3BeGpWacQ5V601zDvc9tTomRcOJIFbchHSbg/s400/20150822_165354.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
A new enthusiasm and energy has taken hold recently with regards art making. There seems to have been a shift in my vision and a freer approach is emerging... I have been experimenting with new colours and foregoing detail in completed work in favour of expressive mark making. This is exciting!<br />
<br />
I spent one afternoon playing with some new watercolour paints...<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjb3pbVFVko_diyhb4r3PIwwBx93pJhlMAn5lenQR9LIByenWgUlGv4ml4WKAMfQm8WAQdqJs_hqlK3iztKVJISojHXW4qu1_GdhOaswz7y-v4BX1Iqp0hDwg3PtEHz2OxHdIRQqfeMHug/s1600/Playing+with+new+paint+colours%252C+August+2015+%252814%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjb3pbVFVko_diyhb4r3PIwwBx93pJhlMAn5lenQR9LIByenWgUlGv4ml4WKAMfQm8WAQdqJs_hqlK3iztKVJISojHXW4qu1_GdhOaswz7y-v4BX1Iqp0hDwg3PtEHz2OxHdIRQqfeMHug/s400/Playing+with+new+paint+colours%252C+August+2015+%252814%2529.jpg" width="290" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Winsor & Newton watercolours - Transparent Orange <br />and Sapphire Blue</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhaqeig_q6XR_hzpRfbLkfYEC318fF2MGh3LB9OY_XjgQUrro2vw7zXSMe87Xadm6rHGync3YDWSnBzdPVyqqIIJF1HOw6OZ8vCKmLsgX1hVlpZwvXBdgB6ZNSVy5x3-TpFVyzi3hHhAqQ/s1600/Playing+with+new+paint+colours%252C+August+2015+%252819%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhaqeig_q6XR_hzpRfbLkfYEC318fF2MGh3LB9OY_XjgQUrro2vw7zXSMe87Xadm6rHGync3YDWSnBzdPVyqqIIJF1HOw6OZ8vCKmLsgX1hVlpZwvXBdgB6ZNSVy5x3-TpFVyzi3hHhAqQ/s400/Playing+with+new+paint+colours%252C+August+2015+%252819%2529.jpg" width="391" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Daniel Smith watercolours and W&N Cerulean Blue plus Sapphire Blue again.<br />Bottom half of painting had some cellophane draped over while paint was still wet,<br />and then left to dry. </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgTo0v2LevksZTf1QQMXl8cFcQJ97_ll6XWBGepYS2YCq-Gczc21JOEgODvjN-MmSz8fSZFk0qFrTjTNWHKRKHn8j8Ox9h3J3XEVyQtJk_urxaNhBcavBw_QGoRM9orRN7bBq7-fJpticA/s1600/Playing+with+new+paint+colours%252C+August+2015+%25285%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgTo0v2LevksZTf1QQMXl8cFcQJ97_ll6XWBGepYS2YCq-Gczc21JOEgODvjN-MmSz8fSZFk0qFrTjTNWHKRKHn8j8Ox9h3J3XEVyQtJk_urxaNhBcavBw_QGoRM9orRN7bBq7-fJpticA/s320/Playing+with+new+paint+colours%252C+August+2015+%25285%2529.jpg" width="288" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Winsor & Newton Gold calligraphy ink<br />(fortunately lightfast - beware, not all calligraphy colours are) with <br />Daniel Smith Undersea Green and Violet gouache.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6wczHTf2mHAe-WQ1mfYv2CkmGgws2bDfOm-k0ZBNc_ZlU7avD5zADsNBHT1QM3DoOdjIoChu_Nbo85FyVulZAZ5jDKU5J0C4lP4SI8cN3ZggQjZE-jt5u4gviZHyW-kndqk2m_lG9ZvY/s1600/Playing+with+new+paint+colours%252C+August+2015+%252817%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6wczHTf2mHAe-WQ1mfYv2CkmGgws2bDfOm-k0ZBNc_ZlU7avD5zADsNBHT1QM3DoOdjIoChu_Nbo85FyVulZAZ5jDKU5J0C4lP4SI8cN3ZggQjZE-jt5u4gviZHyW-kndqk2m_lG9ZvY/s320/Playing+with+new+paint+colours%252C+August+2015+%252817%2529.jpg" style="cursor: move;" width="202" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Tricky to photograph so the gold shimmer <br />is apparent!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6wczHTf2mHAe-WQ1mfYv2CkmGgws2bDfOm-k0ZBNc_ZlU7avD5zADsNBHT1QM3DoOdjIoChu_Nbo85FyVulZAZ5jDKU5J0C4lP4SI8cN3ZggQjZE-jt5u4gviZHyW-kndqk2m_lG9ZvY/s1600/Playing+with+new+paint+colours%252C+August+2015+%252817%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><br /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
The potential of the new Daniel Smith colours is very inspiring as they granulate readily and the colours separate out into their component parts.</div>
<br />
<br />
I have also been studying a new book by Debora Stewart and her techniques for abstracted art echo what I have been moving towards. The untitled (as yet) work shown in the stages below is a step in the right direction with a loose beginning, and I tried to keep the drawing spontaneous rather than laboured and exact.<br />
<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgSo1ps7ycDV1pF2HNDFmYXjGec5-2rAI8bsma50LIwR0ex29f_Imj-ddioLWcKogWQhY5c8tsdTyM02Ih88yeplZQ5rDwTF93Rmm5_I2UH9h3acYpkXtFAtpx8DVQ5q7ZMJ0JepkhgLm4/s1600/20150813_191922.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgSo1ps7ycDV1pF2HNDFmYXjGec5-2rAI8bsma50LIwR0ex29f_Imj-ddioLWcKogWQhY5c8tsdTyM02Ih88yeplZQ5rDwTF93Rmm5_I2UH9h3acYpkXtFAtpx8DVQ5q7ZMJ0JepkhgLm4/s400/20150813_191922.jpg" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">1. Compressed charcoal was stroked energetically <br />across mid grey Canson Mi-Teintes pastel paper.<br />Water was swished over this with a large flat brush<br />in multi-directions. As the work was upright on an easel<br />drips were encouraged to flow down the paper. You can see where I then <br />started the line drawing in white pastel pencil. </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgyAV4xLLuDSmcx1MOOV8pv8dRNwNAUZMF9pDQnkEfks9JyVWThAQjtTJ3n4QTradxSVXkOiUUoS44Tg04hHQdhXkyb1upW3aJlahRsYRkXHGit_xf0B3KQWbJKOfbG9Yh1NUSojdDY0qo/s1600/20150813_195947.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgyAV4xLLuDSmcx1MOOV8pv8dRNwNAUZMF9pDQnkEfks9JyVWThAQjtTJ3n4QTradxSVXkOiUUoS44Tg04hHQdhXkyb1upW3aJlahRsYRkXHGit_xf0B3KQWbJKOfbG9Yh1NUSojdDY0qo/s400/20150813_195947.jpg" width="303" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">2. Once the basic composition was in place I began to<br />introduce some of the lightest / darkest tones and established <br />the insect as the focal point. </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiMMJ7p9-TB8h4Kk7ptqo0wxBUcgatpFnpckOC0TspyHBJtgZtQT4uWrFJvf-ndg5DTn4Le1mgek6LblbJhn-S70kJBtiJgsLNmQ06esupP5NNVyIdFqvIfxeZBAgwlJpkNxKeDgNe7Irs/s1600/20150819_164528.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiMMJ7p9-TB8h4Kk7ptqo0wxBUcgatpFnpckOC0TspyHBJtgZtQT4uWrFJvf-ndg5DTn4Le1mgek6LblbJhn-S70kJBtiJgsLNmQ06esupP5NNVyIdFqvIfxeZBAgwlJpkNxKeDgNe7Irs/s400/20150819_164528.jpg" width="301" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">3. More light areas are built up with white pastel pencil and <br />a few more hints of ochre placed.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCMu3MKhBsHhwOFA0_ZACCwIkYe6EsdBM3MNEQuDxHtfPSRmwFCNxUxtAvcFnHlTVhA0KhQjUZSvzyDD-035ZwHgG8_McPIlNZ2928RWrtQOBMZ9X6ztzWSP7Z__PxFX7f6H4lJYmDpvw/s1600/20150819_170423.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCMu3MKhBsHhwOFA0_ZACCwIkYe6EsdBM3MNEQuDxHtfPSRmwFCNxUxtAvcFnHlTVhA0KhQjUZSvzyDD-035ZwHgG8_McPIlNZ2928RWrtQOBMZ9X6ztzWSP7Z__PxFX7f6H4lJYmDpvw/s400/20150819_170423.jpg" width="290" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">4. The stamens of the top bloom are now in place.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjcNUVqpLoZw7Pit6XGWChS5mgWMWs0p4gXq_Ri-rKFkY9SBhDDgRwIQpNuYJX4LSpHHnTAdnCrzspiqIo4ndBQRNolPdrUNE-eP-zFNnybEqtwO6aTD1-jbwWu-HP_UpPKOfdWjugXFOU/s1600/20150820_175602.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjcNUVqpLoZw7Pit6XGWChS5mgWMWs0p4gXq_Ri-rKFkY9SBhDDgRwIQpNuYJX4LSpHHnTAdnCrzspiqIo4ndBQRNolPdrUNE-eP-zFNnybEqtwO6aTD1-jbwWu-HP_UpPKOfdWjugXFOU/s400/20150820_175602.jpg" width="297" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">5. Finally the stamens on the primary bloom are suggested<br />and the brightest sunlit areas are strengthened with touches of<br />a white Unison pastel stick. </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
This drawing was very enjoyable to do and three elements helped to keep it fresh and loose. First, I stood at an easel to work which aids larger arm movements; the initial layer of large sweeping marks contained an innate liveliness and lastly I held the pastel pencils well away from the point, so relinquishing some control. Also, the limited palette works to keep the focus on the insect and small touches of ochre elsewhere lead the eye around the composition. </div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
Today has surely been one of the hottest so far... and I spent most of the afternoon and early evening in the studio. I would normally wear an apron when working with pastels as they are one of the messier mediums but couldn't bear the thought of an additional layer and didn't bother. Using a photo I took in Holme-next-the-Sea of pink Mallow as a starting point, I worked on a painting that focused on mark making and layering to try and capture the essence. </div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhYZpsV9w5Eill7eMD3kEqlTYdH2rt5H8WpEdg09xFMmNv5v3nzn-rHZswj15ijKATblBKf3jWWcBhoV1NPx7JYdLNFIOALgltJg8Zfv-VZCT_rwfRI1_7ZUlb3VRfd-0VFUy8qnIQiUrw/s1600/Merry+Mallows%252C+watercolour%252C+charcoal+%2526+pastel%252C+August+2015+%25281%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhYZpsV9w5Eill7eMD3kEqlTYdH2rt5H8WpEdg09xFMmNv5v3nzn-rHZswj15ijKATblBKf3jWWcBhoV1NPx7JYdLNFIOALgltJg8Zfv-VZCT_rwfRI1_7ZUlb3VRfd-0VFUy8qnIQiUrw/s400/Merry+Mallows%252C+watercolour%252C+charcoal+%2526+pastel%252C+August+2015+%25281%2529.jpg" width="285" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
A loose wet-on-dry application of watercolour</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
was the starting point for this painting. The base colours were encouraged to fuse and again drips were integral as I was stood at the easel.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Although the support looks white in the photo it is a warm cream Art Spectrum Colourfix paper. The slightly gritty surface happily accepts watermedia and there is plenty of tooth for soft pastel in subsequent layers. </div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: right;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZEoIKW_IkzZm9rKpnPXkoiymQs1-EV9yllhGrqfUwzlKgKFwdxny1_s-waA1oL5lY7c7mDfWitWKEaypQwvT66PhyphenhyphenfxISzuN6zORAXcKaxEk1ZCb6CXlQ6JtwZYNhsH3-6VG_Pzgv9xo/s1600/Merry+Mallows%252C+watercolour%252C+charcoal+%2526+pastel%252C+August+2015+%25283%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZEoIKW_IkzZm9rKpnPXkoiymQs1-EV9yllhGrqfUwzlKgKFwdxny1_s-waA1oL5lY7c7mDfWitWKEaypQwvT66PhyphenhyphenfxISzuN6zORAXcKaxEk1ZCb6CXlQ6JtwZYNhsH3-6VG_Pzgv9xo/s400/Merry+Mallows%252C+watercolour%252C+charcoal+%2526+pastel%252C+August+2015+%25283%2529.jpg" width="290" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Once the initial paint was dry a very loose drawing in charcoal pencil was </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
established. Again holding the pencil nearer the end furthest from the point helped prevent </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
a tight rendition. Also pushing up, rather than pulling in a downward motion, and gently rolling the </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
pencil between the fingers as drawing enabled more random marks to be made.<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZHtzc6N9cA060cqpYKf2lwHo5Wt72ngsf3xCTkCPp9t9pzpvOvaLFbjsipWDp-877X8jIqPaf9iaZjfRmqdq3JwLWoer1SXpp8TrQAretrbv_rCRT-UbME0gKyTQOsBtdUZe4u74BKzk/s1600/Merry+Mallows%252C+watercolour%252C+charcoal+%2526+pastel%252C+August+2015+%25287%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZHtzc6N9cA060cqpYKf2lwHo5Wt72ngsf3xCTkCPp9t9pzpvOvaLFbjsipWDp-877X8jIqPaf9iaZjfRmqdq3JwLWoer1SXpp8TrQAretrbv_rCRT-UbME0gKyTQOsBtdUZe4u74BKzk/s400/Merry+Mallows%252C+watercolour%252C+charcoal+%2526+pastel%252C+August+2015+%25287%2529.jpg" width="273" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
The next step seems counter productive, but I did it anyway, and 'lost' the drawing</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
by dragging a flat brush with diluted gesso across the surface in multi-directional strokes. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
This is a technique favoured by Debora Stewart but with hindsight I realised she uses </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
compressed charcoal so a little more of the drawing remains intact! </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFDgAGG38puwWJ77LXZrGYTWTviEx-t-dkbBJE9OhZwfA-9Ukd9OUmJyst0IoxzqI-xwX_QfRnKCISbrJgFWKeHztxIJgx4bQKspSQrxxZ0TBVhiqpRPvktVrPo_uDFFJHX37ErERySfM/s1600/Merry+Mallows%252C+watercolour%252C+charcoal+%2526+pastel%252C+August+2015+%25289%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFDgAGG38puwWJ77LXZrGYTWTviEx-t-dkbBJE9OhZwfA-9Ukd9OUmJyst0IoxzqI-xwX_QfRnKCISbrJgFWKeHztxIJgx4bQKspSQrxxZ0TBVhiqpRPvktVrPo_uDFFJHX37ErERySfM/s400/Merry+Mallows%252C+watercolour%252C+charcoal+%2526+pastel%252C+August+2015+%25289%2529.jpg" width="283" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
The drawing is then re-established with charcoal pencil and even if more of the first drawing </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
had been present this second one would have been superimposed, and slightly offset, to </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
enhance the feeling of layered media. My eyes are really enjoying what is beginning to happen in this work and I'm almost tempted to stop at this stage.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidKxCmPOOs5DXyEjk9Am7TedxaNasPoX1PZYY08DqDvA8EFfCEu1MKSGAu7xFbQy_IT8LFeMB5LLlZcKf5uKBl3KH84tNRaMOW74jvmv9xivyXCe11gtV6h9QIwQeqpmlhjcQwiL3PG0Y/s1600/Merry+Mallows%252C+watercolour%252C+charcoal+%2526+pastel%252C+August+2015+%252812%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidKxCmPOOs5DXyEjk9Am7TedxaNasPoX1PZYY08DqDvA8EFfCEu1MKSGAu7xFbQy_IT8LFeMB5LLlZcKf5uKBl3KH84tNRaMOW74jvmv9xivyXCe11gtV6h9QIwQeqpmlhjcQwiL3PG0Y/s400/Merry+Mallows%252C+watercolour%252C+charcoal+%2526+pastel%252C+August+2015+%252812%2529.jpg" width="272" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I push on however and introduce more colour using soft pastel sticks. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I limit the colours and tonal range to try and avoid confusion. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
When I pause to assess how the work is going I feel a little disappointed. Close up there is plenty to engage the eye but move a short distance away and it blurs into a generalised mid tone.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Something must be done to redeem it...</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgcepfnSkCNfl8dq5Sk-xbvDOXRz1JrydXyCBkCKeNb3gCyybtR4Yi9EHAtoPhRghyphenhyphen5rfz3yiK53ulxH6MNEqund_He9xABzBej1pSC7a3x0GeGji08-45umQQdPM2SchPyY0VHv7oRP1o/s1600/Merry+Mallows%252C+watercolour%252C+charcoal+%2526+pastel%252C+August+2015+%252819%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgcepfnSkCNfl8dq5Sk-xbvDOXRz1JrydXyCBkCKeNb3gCyybtR4Yi9EHAtoPhRghyphenhyphen5rfz3yiK53ulxH6MNEqund_He9xABzBej1pSC7a3x0GeGji08-45umQQdPM2SchPyY0VHv7oRP1o/s400/Merry+Mallows%252C+watercolour%252C+charcoal+%2526+pastel%252C+August+2015+%252819%2529.jpg" width="261" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
Taking yet another risk, I lightly block in the negative spaces in the top two thirds of the painting. </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
I use a white pastel pencil and hold it low so that the side of the point catches across the gritty surface and allows the under layer to still play a part. </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
I finally stop and take stock again. After a few extra dark punctuations </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
with the charcoal pencil I feel it is finished. </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Did I make the right choice?</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Too early to tell. I need a bit of time to pass to assess it as a whole again.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
What do you think? </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
Tod Evanshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15888236635332828208noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1589919365805446787.post-30949998125082394202015-07-29T03:29:00.002-07:002015-07-29T03:32:44.796-07:00Photo Essay - Catching Up News...Aaagghhh... busy, busy, and trip to France is imminent, but I want to quickly catch up with the news of recent activities! So, here is an edited photo essay...<br />
<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEit409GXvNEG70-w_2WcCV3ynuIJC8u5aNmbwabpgoUKUT3HBeehngCjfpnHN0exBEWI1XmVS_n8r3FiFah8isBoDPchvhZOFqIBTyX299CEtDFJCAiPOUWDVvavLYCPnVtAX0RW0vF3GM/s1600/Nature+printing+with+colour%252C+June+2015+%252812%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEit409GXvNEG70-w_2WcCV3ynuIJC8u5aNmbwabpgoUKUT3HBeehngCjfpnHN0exBEWI1XmVS_n8r3FiFah8isBoDPchvhZOFqIBTyX299CEtDFJCAiPOUWDVvavLYCPnVtAX0RW0vF3GM/s400/Nature+printing+with+colour%252C+June+2015+%252812%2529.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Tried some more nature printing. This one shows the ferns laid on acrylic inks, <br />
which should have resulted in a lovely print. You can also see the rock salt particles<br />
sprinkled on, intended to leave interesting textures when dry and brushed off.<br />
However, the ferns just stuck fast in the acrylic and broke as I tried to prize away from the<br />
dried inks - although a failure I learnt something at least! </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhYq8hKNpTSV0Rx4sXZD7HQwrs1uy2wjhRnfijy7qSUA_59jvSi0ctP1hWhGjENFwDHTYIoz_53WB3J1v0GhSiSMC8Fn1xPbH7X_-T_gRaVUuazd9vV2XSk4BGO6-dtqNFfUXAfKwGmLA8/s1600/Nature+printing+with+colour%252C+June+2015+%252811%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhYq8hKNpTSV0Rx4sXZD7HQwrs1uy2wjhRnfijy7qSUA_59jvSi0ctP1hWhGjENFwDHTYIoz_53WB3J1v0GhSiSMC8Fn1xPbH7X_-T_gRaVUuazd9vV2XSk4BGO6-dtqNFfUXAfKwGmLA8/s400/Nature+printing+with+colour%252C+June+2015+%252811%2529.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">At the same time I was repeating the exercise with ferns and rock salt with watercolour.<br />
This approach worked much better. The feather at the top was created with black printing ink<br />
and the work felt very unbalanced as this dominated the image. After the addition of some black<br />
coloured pencil in select areas around the ferns it seemed to come together. </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEib157yt1enFhw86Nn57N6Z60Sjm8hjyb1h5biuZyGVXTCLe4Y6gtmNHQYMP5a6Ncp8O2lsZ3dW5Bru_cn92MbxAvk_8QY4ggpMGgrU82_u9LRI7r3ijWs84V64W41zxofuzBnHHnkzoto/s1600/Nature+printing+with+colour%252C+June+2015+%252817%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEib157yt1enFhw86Nn57N6Z60Sjm8hjyb1h5biuZyGVXTCLe4Y6gtmNHQYMP5a6Ncp8O2lsZ3dW5Bru_cn92MbxAvk_8QY4ggpMGgrU82_u9LRI7r3ijWs84V64W41zxofuzBnHHnkzoto/s400/Nature+printing+with+colour%252C+June+2015+%252817%2529.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I also cut up some heavyweight cartridge paper to print on and made them into cards.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjNSxVUPd6WS2x-3lpGIqbcGdrNXfuyK8KgfGjKYjDyb8piNJMeG-lKrvCog7T9Ot8v4NBDpWLBC_eOgBb_IoWZxK12jAQnbBjnHGeDtGQiNkqCxez08_oFZAfeSk7susI54Qfh9C2w8-8/s1600/Social+Sketchbook%252C+June+2015%252C+Castle+Rising++%252823%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjNSxVUPd6WS2x-3lpGIqbcGdrNXfuyK8KgfGjKYjDyb8piNJMeG-lKrvCog7T9Ot8v4NBDpWLBC_eOgBb_IoWZxK12jAQnbBjnHGeDtGQiNkqCxez08_oFZAfeSk7susI54Qfh9C2w8-8/s400/Social+Sketchbook%252C+June+2015%252C+Castle+Rising++%252823%2529.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Social Sketchbook event in June at Castle Rising. Well attended and finally some<br />
reasonable weather. An area worth visiting again as there is much inspiration. </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhum6mtd_p65jb5YIcgfFu3WQXtU6FuPMi9C2bu_UgFORWjFmJHlZw4Zjx6_3xyUiMvPqDMCa25dGFVCLwIle7mUPG_x_1StIlaIcwTjEvZv3qAmchfVunE1cdDYLsMBSltBH43Q0R5aCo/s1600/Social+Sketchbook%252C+June+2015%252C+Castle+Rising++%252832%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhum6mtd_p65jb5YIcgfFu3WQXtU6FuPMi9C2bu_UgFORWjFmJHlZw4Zjx6_3xyUiMvPqDMCa25dGFVCLwIle7mUPG_x_1StIlaIcwTjEvZv3qAmchfVunE1cdDYLsMBSltBH43Q0R5aCo/s400/Social+Sketchbook%252C+June+2015%252C+Castle+Rising++%252832%2529.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">This double page spread is pure watercolour, no pencil drawing first, and was<br />
also completed at Castle Rising. It took about 40 minutes, is very sketchy but a memory of <br />
looking across to Babbingley. </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhRc4MF7cLnnSQmzka1_pfFy0P7R99ciDvyQY3hrfkuCK2VewmAT_zVHR9jt4thH2JReURuE7NKRQBS60ewC5TF0QHdARS1Kj8iv2r9M7KCVbhR-MebNPzCbxEHZbnfnzBbz9BBEdXH4s0/s1600/Social+Sketchbook%252C+June+2015%252C+Castle+Rising++%252813%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="255" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhRc4MF7cLnnSQmzka1_pfFy0P7R99ciDvyQY3hrfkuCK2VewmAT_zVHR9jt4thH2JReURuE7NKRQBS60ewC5TF0QHdARS1Kj8iv2r9M7KCVbhR-MebNPzCbxEHZbnfnzBbz9BBEdXH4s0/s400/Social+Sketchbook%252C+June+2015%252C+Castle+Rising++%252813%2529.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Selected sketchbooks by the group at castle rising. We all completed several<br />
sketches each so going with the intention of drawing is certainly productive.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgbxk_enLVg4Dw1wIUyfH-Adc9oXKub6AtQ33x-eks_YNF-hwxXGadt7M62NwGAwvC9YzpVjmi16y6CilEi7yqRLlyA98JM-uIM2mDQW13rdhmqJ9xsD9WIk9OzJPSGA9HgBbbfCljAFs0/s1600/My+five+paintings+at+Welborne+Art+Festival%252C+June+2015.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgbxk_enLVg4Dw1wIUyfH-Adc9oXKub6AtQ33x-eks_YNF-hwxXGadt7M62NwGAwvC9YzpVjmi16y6CilEi7yqRLlyA98JM-uIM2mDQW13rdhmqJ9xsD9WIk9OzJPSGA9HgBbbfCljAFs0/s400/My+five+paintings+at+Welborne+Art+Festival%252C+June+2015.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">My five paintings at Welborne Arts Festival with other members of <br />
West Norfolk Artists Association. A well organised and supported festival but weather <br />
was sunshine and showers. Lots of families, interested in our artwork but not looking to <br />
buy art on a fun day out... Difficult to see the work in this photo due to reflections <br />
on the glass, apologies.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZs-beECL26J1RbJQy-jNxRF5DWrTpsaFYdXjs_WAhZAG-XLwsJu_dNmiLiSpToAT4jnZCSyZbspZ3K7NY_W6_RrqVZO_0xyjAisizru1lrZPAmIjYkup8_SSwmA5QTwGfI3phzXjuJeU/s1600/20150624_121829.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZs-beECL26J1RbJQy-jNxRF5DWrTpsaFYdXjs_WAhZAG-XLwsJu_dNmiLiSpToAT4jnZCSyZbspZ3K7NY_W6_RrqVZO_0xyjAisizru1lrZPAmIjYkup8_SSwmA5QTwGfI3phzXjuJeU/s400/20150624_121829.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I was treated to a marvellous day out at Mundesley on the North Norfolk coast<br />
by two friends and we sketched on the beach. This is watersoluble pencil over a <br />
pre-prepared gesso base tinted with acrylic. Lovely company, great scenery and <br />
fantastic food - once again "thank you" Kay and Sue!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgzyYwl3ymsar5Gs5T0tlgqXDAaXRhx8rUwjuBS2h50Oq-ymjCIOqtDlIQg7BXxGAgt1Pdq6XUuNRgVtHErzKNEKcMkaFnRT124seNGegelnk_47H_r0bKkP9fjkOylnr9EGLnKe_PhoKc/s1600/20150701_135000.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgzyYwl3ymsar5Gs5T0tlgqXDAaXRhx8rUwjuBS2h50Oq-ymjCIOqtDlIQg7BXxGAgt1Pdq6XUuNRgVtHErzKNEKcMkaFnRT124seNGegelnk_47H_r0bKkP9fjkOylnr9EGLnKe_PhoKc/s400/20150701_135000.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Social Sketchbook event in Old Hunstanton earlier this month. <br />
Hottest day of the year so far! </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0sxT8rYTxrQ_l75W-AtGfYYeacAXx0hg6AFciyRU9OsYUEgj-XA3a_d-6K_OwSxISYnL53CRERpPg8kFGfVyxIbyelAsWBoEv6nUaKSWSqvrSSZ4MJrfTtvRpjHh3cj5DX8DbiKoIs70/s1600/20150702_170945.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0sxT8rYTxrQ_l75W-AtGfYYeacAXx0hg6AFciyRU9OsYUEgj-XA3a_d-6K_OwSxISYnL53CRERpPg8kFGfVyxIbyelAsWBoEv6nUaKSWSqvrSSZ4MJrfTtvRpjHh3cj5DX8DbiKoIs70/s400/20150702_170945.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Pen and wash sketch looking towards the famous Hunstanton cliffs.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEinxk9uCV0iQnnBxLoMP9kVhWIZqPRyVJOe0QoJibAQZHWZr6W5cfGY1zlX_NLd93svhKv64ofX21OrmYfy1ESkd9fgT1aucTGFfp-YUKXOAfH28vYpRHHhRxiXhMPf0VQ5Wm9rsVfCe38/s1600/20150702_171002.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEinxk9uCV0iQnnBxLoMP9kVhWIZqPRyVJOe0QoJibAQZHWZr6W5cfGY1zlX_NLd93svhKv64ofX21OrmYfy1ESkd9fgT1aucTGFfp-YUKXOAfH28vYpRHHhRxiXhMPf0VQ5Wm9rsVfCe38/s400/20150702_171002.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Looking out to sea. Watercolour washes then dip pen and walnut ink to capture some <br />
of the figures. </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhXpII-nI6OMfLh39Agw4VV43MNmkL6eWDgd2Yrgw8LbQKpZcD0yQoFimZ-FFyR0NO1gFJ0aH44rSS_poha7SnXNwnqnggRYB4xwUxk_gWu9vyTrDfk4xW3mYQUAmm7CJt6QtHkeSyMWiw/s1600/20150719_133252.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhXpII-nI6OMfLh39Agw4VV43MNmkL6eWDgd2Yrgw8LbQKpZcD0yQoFimZ-FFyR0NO1gFJ0aH44rSS_poha7SnXNwnqnggRYB4xwUxk_gWu9vyTrDfk4xW3mYQUAmm7CJt6QtHkeSyMWiw/s400/20150719_133252.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">An amazing hollyhock that has grown outside my studio this year. It must have<br />
been a amongst the wildflower seeds I sprinkle each year (usually in vain).</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgrasp7AE8CN_eG_4dwQtCwaeD0QD83RACD0Kd-8QvI_GnNegQ02wqNsnCEbYmzxbS8tGuMl5lVXw7otVEhd7wRtHoD8pBSgONkz-1WA3iMZpb5W7n2kj2YiiRmtZWUHmZa0cN57IGDIqI/s1600/20150707_194903.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgrasp7AE8CN_eG_4dwQtCwaeD0QD83RACD0Kd-8QvI_GnNegQ02wqNsnCEbYmzxbS8tGuMl5lVXw7otVEhd7wRtHoD8pBSgONkz-1WA3iMZpb5W7n2kj2YiiRmtZWUHmZa0cN57IGDIqI/s400/20150707_194903.jpg" width="225" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Charcoal drawing from the hollyhock.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjczgfm4VMzgC46t1UlKvzptSvF_KNXHBP1gA82iETPgONoxhkh02UtxSIVduXc_zgsM1kJtkvIrPnZLRci0jKNjUW_viQK_D2JaEn6rHIKNhxtLiecr6m_xFwNVYq0HcRVHhVaZJ8YBvg/s1600/20150707_194932.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjczgfm4VMzgC46t1UlKvzptSvF_KNXHBP1gA82iETPgONoxhkh02UtxSIVduXc_zgsM1kJtkvIrPnZLRci0jKNjUW_viQK_D2JaEn6rHIKNhxtLiecr6m_xFwNVYq0HcRVHhVaZJ8YBvg/s400/20150707_194932.jpg" width="225" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Loose variegated sweeps of neocolour crayon and<br />
charcoal pencil line drawing on top. Yes, the hollyhock again. </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
I'm feeling happier now, we are all up to date. Note to self: try posting shorter entries but more often!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Please feel free to comment on anything in this blog, I would love to know your views or if you have any questions. In the meantime, France awaits so - Au Revoir!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
<br />Tod Evanshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15888236635332828208noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1589919365805446787.post-70756465928207043622015-06-05T15:09:00.002-07:002015-06-05T15:09:59.085-07:00Nature Print ExperimentsEarlier this week I spent a very happy and productive few hours in the studio trying my hand at some nature prints. This year our little paddock is almost shoulder height in places with cow parsley and I had a fancy to try some experiments and see what I could do with some specimens of this and some grasses using black water-based printing ink. After gathering some plant material I headed back to the studio and spied a pigeon feather on the ground by the step, another possible inspiration.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi8URKi1TyepBaqBH7dP8ZJz8meCel7x0Iw7-DcMTEzu8p9FwbTOhvfAJCQjT99iosLdZCFEjYWn5zrARMMDEqqXQlHCqiKtovhrBXdNFH2C6rlIreUyO9LFvU-yt1GLuY1od58K7QOnFY/s1600/nature+printing%252C+June+2015+%25282%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi8URKi1TyepBaqBH7dP8ZJz8meCel7x0Iw7-DcMTEzu8p9FwbTOhvfAJCQjT99iosLdZCFEjYWn5zrARMMDEqqXQlHCqiKtovhrBXdNFH2C6rlIreUyO9LFvU-yt1GLuY1od58K7QOnFY/s400/nature+printing%252C+June+2015+%25282%2529.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Preparing a surface with acrylic paint and roller prior to printing.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
I decided to prepare a coloured surface which could be set aside to dry, and that I would have a practise with the printing technique on cheaper cartridge paper before using it. I opted for a piece of Fabriano 5, a hot pressed watercolour paper, as I felt the smooth surface would help keep any definition crisp and cleaner looking. I didn't want the paint to become too dense or complicated so I opted for just two colours of acrylic paint and applied it lightly using a rubber roller, allowing plenty of white paper to remain visible. This was then set aside to dry. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidC7FMaFn9ylyz29Mq8zANxzfY2vGo-9sf31QQaWOePhswa8SMPZB4cTMYluLqu-nrJu0Go9YlE4dIiLdYHB0OElRp1nGy6lSWJEmgQLwUbt-O33Gg-ev8S3CEMZqvjlCYPRpYsybqL4o/s1600/nature+printing%252C+June+2015+%252811%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidC7FMaFn9ylyz29Mq8zANxzfY2vGo-9sf31QQaWOePhswa8SMPZB4cTMYluLqu-nrJu0Go9YlE4dIiLdYHB0OElRp1nGy6lSWJEmgQLwUbt-O33Gg-ev8S3CEMZqvjlCYPRpYsybqL4o/s400/nature+printing%252C+June+2015+%252811%2529.jpg" width="225" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">First attempt - printing from the feather<br />onto white cartridge paper.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
I felt the potential of the feather could be more successful than the finer plant material so opted to try using this first. I utilised an A4 sheet of laminated plastic to lay the feather on and a roller to transfer the black water-based printing ink across the feather itself. This was then gently placed on some plain white cartridge paper and a piece of cheap photocopy paper on top of this, a bit like a sandwich. I used my hand to carefully apply pressure and rub across all the areas of the feather in the hope of a good ink transfer... As you can see in the photo above I hadn't quite got enough ink across the barbs of the feather so the print is very linear. I tried a few more and then felt ready to have a go printing on the prepared coloured paper. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjaQgHzP6abfAoxt5N2QAi-uGoBhXB5p7JYzG_o-32nTFrTW3_T6CaunCCTQ0IrQ77kikluzYQGFRfEo74EzHI63rqGnerGP5GQeGl2mYM0nvFKm6sqhB7rW7KF0GXMmC4iCTsp0cTnuEA/s1600/nature+printing%252C+June+2015+%252812%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="158" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjaQgHzP6abfAoxt5N2QAi-uGoBhXB5p7JYzG_o-32nTFrTW3_T6CaunCCTQ0IrQ77kikluzYQGFRfEo74EzHI63rqGnerGP5GQeGl2mYM0nvFKm6sqhB7rW7KF0GXMmC4iCTsp0cTnuEA/s400/nature+printing%252C+June+2015+%252812%2529.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">This feather print was placed at the bottom of the prepared page <br />and I was delighted with the amount of detail.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUcpncl_D8vgbaLrmmotS18BY9Vue0JnWH42YxAe_mqXGL9GIJwAtV0hUw8Y__B6uUaQZHI7H6zbm8Ckwq2V7wHCVlKJtLscVVJ2a5y_H5lWy-sgMcNFWcPAEj390zSB_FrUoEMOyZj-c/s1600/nature+printing%252C+June+2015+%252813%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUcpncl_D8vgbaLrmmotS18BY9Vue0JnWH42YxAe_mqXGL9GIJwAtV0hUw8Y__B6uUaQZHI7H6zbm8Ckwq2V7wHCVlKJtLscVVJ2a5y_H5lWy-sgMcNFWcPAEj390zSB_FrUoEMOyZj-c/s400/nature+printing%252C+June+2015+%252813%2529.jpg" width="382" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Here is the same print but shown alongside the feather itself <br />plus the ink transferred onto the photocopy paper <br />- the ink has naturally worked itself through the barbs <br />leaving an additional mirror image!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwCfa7z-qsNjDBvWo8vggIfIfsmgjVafM8dumMDzL2ik7FjWDaIG3HoMXWuNk4-jnv3oEKFYisSJoZ-VaKhUchv4v0vTauOnefqLm6cRhkgX2_qp1tHWQzKNjdXSM8GMwyGEbeDQTl42w/s1600/nature+printing%252C+June+2015+%252819%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwCfa7z-qsNjDBvWo8vggIfIfsmgjVafM8dumMDzL2ik7FjWDaIG3HoMXWuNk4-jnv3oEKFYisSJoZ-VaKhUchv4v0vTauOnefqLm6cRhkgX2_qp1tHWQzKNjdXSM8GMwyGEbeDQTl42w/s400/nature+printing%252C+June+2015+%252819%2529.jpg" width="256" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A few more feather prints were made on the <br />Fabriano 5 prepared surface. </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjLUwYo7M4ESnrWwDNLluJAxZcr7787yQ5tpXHBDGIIO-eu1e_v_UwbWF0ToD0djhyl_4lOwSoenxf5JGEIyiXx8nLSwiK8DMJWN0UWS1zkhBcdI4wr7uzimLkWUJgGUp6CWxT8IuRamNI/s1600/nature+printing%252C+June+2015+%252828%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjLUwYo7M4ESnrWwDNLluJAxZcr7787yQ5tpXHBDGIIO-eu1e_v_UwbWF0ToD0djhyl_4lOwSoenxf5JGEIyiXx8nLSwiK8DMJWN0UWS1zkhBcdI4wr7uzimLkWUJgGUp6CWxT8IuRamNI/s400/nature+printing%252C+June+2015+%252828%2529.jpg" width="225" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">After a practise on cartridge paper I finally had <br />a go at printing from the cow parsley.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
I felt encouraged by the results of the nature printing so far. The process itself seems very straight forward with quite basic skills involved, but I can see that the design element is more difficult and necessary to make a piece of artwork that goes beyond this rudimentary level. Most important of all though - I was certainly having fun experimenting!<br />
<br />
It was at this point, when I was taking a few more photos, that I glanced at the now messy plastic inking 'plate' and was intrigued by the impression the feather had left in the wet surface.<br />
<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg89WuMvglC32WdnWkQ2SAdrUpdQcqAb0QR8UFu3OFEVyHqGxIzu8YCNo_M5-Mo8OFJUYRjzF4wlUMhko9SUkxaR295TtuNLPXKtJnfj6yI5A5CFhyphenhyphen1OMVzFAyF2P_FyAdxuUYAqJ3uQfU/s1600/nature+printing%252C+June+2015+%252824%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg89WuMvglC32WdnWkQ2SAdrUpdQcqAb0QR8UFu3OFEVyHqGxIzu8YCNo_M5-Mo8OFJUYRjzF4wlUMhko9SUkxaR295TtuNLPXKtJnfj6yI5A5CFhyphenhyphen1OMVzFAyF2P_FyAdxuUYAqJ3uQfU/s400/nature+printing%252C+June+2015+%252824%2529.jpg" width="225" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The imprint left by the feather in the built up <br />inking surface on the plastic (it looks brown here <br />but must just be the light catching as the ink is black in reality).</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<br />
One of the grasses I had plucked in the paddock had fantastic spidery roots so I prepared another painted surface to print onto using heavyweight cartridge paper this time. I also printed some textural effects from an offcut of bubblewrap. Unfortunately the resulting print didn't really work, possibly as the root was quite fleshy and round so not much could make contact with the paper, and also the spindly bits were a bit too thin and fragile maybe?<br />
<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjMlVr3_8h34qb04xtAjmQAYA0ExX9trxeuOzh5EweMbw12Sxp3eKwzn_hiHDlg5csI-FFcVwO-OFnLtVI9hwvhMKdyPkyoxC7mxToc2pyB3eRzNkd64CE62N8tH3yH_rkEiC4xMaaykMQ/s1600/nature+printing%252C+June+2015+%252849%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjMlVr3_8h34qb04xtAjmQAYA0ExX9trxeuOzh5EweMbw12Sxp3eKwzn_hiHDlg5csI-FFcVwO-OFnLtVI9hwvhMKdyPkyoxC7mxToc2pyB3eRzNkd64CE62N8tH3yH_rkEiC4xMaaykMQ/s400/nature+printing%252C+June+2015+%252849%2529.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The grass roots and the (unfortunately poor) printed result...</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
However undeterred I moved on to try another tactic...</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1P8Q_48BEteJCU1bSTl4RKoTB9QLW08dj3d54lknLKPFm-B4pRcAKkzQNBjEv8AZ_YMG8s_tWnthA5aH13skkDgKiG6UgisqpqVEmkfJLPd31iTBz5uxZuil5odVg_dPqnjr_mLtjyUQ/s1600/nature+printing%252C+June+2015+%252846%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1P8Q_48BEteJCU1bSTl4RKoTB9QLW08dj3d54lknLKPFm-B4pRcAKkzQNBjEv8AZ_YMG8s_tWnthA5aH13skkDgKiG6UgisqpqVEmkfJLPd31iTBz5uxZuil5odVg_dPqnjr_mLtjyUQ/s400/nature+printing%252C+June+2015+%252846%2529.jpg" width="381" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Two types of grasses printed onto Bockingford 'Not' watercolour paper.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2cDxJefPU_3WhK7PGghTfot-lC1JAwS1rFtgViBbqVbt4b_-_4SNX-vgjjXtYvBJuMjFzv7_4HT0sl-BjVDXindlC0B9I5IIrmjDAe8o144B69WYcpmdeNqppsbSO2E2Q59_9BP4W_FU/s1600/nature+printing%252C+June+2015+%252856%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2cDxJefPU_3WhK7PGghTfot-lC1JAwS1rFtgViBbqVbt4b_-_4SNX-vgjjXtYvBJuMjFzv7_4HT0sl-BjVDXindlC0B9I5IIrmjDAe8o144B69WYcpmdeNqppsbSO2E2Q59_9BP4W_FU/s400/nature+printing%252C+June+2015+%252856%2529.jpg" width="387" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I added watercolour washes and some spatter to the print,<br />and found the effect quite pleasing.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<br />
By this time I was beginning to feel my energy getting low and decided it was time for a break and that I wanted to reflect on the experiment so far. Once again, as I took a few more photos, the inking 'plate' revealed an interesting array of marks and textures.<br />
<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmIZ-gV40dcqG9hwvccLjNS4DmfdTOxMAc4m3BkKOss5U3K2YsVTemk1xfDEZeJRFwNcPiE21tRQJ3WkicASHUycY3mkUmH2bG420fAqXqIA5GthQnBVXZ71I3LkqDj4Z9hMzxyQaD82k/s1600/printing+plastic+plate+for+nature+prints+%25281%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmIZ-gV40dcqG9hwvccLjNS4DmfdTOxMAc4m3BkKOss5U3K2YsVTemk1xfDEZeJRFwNcPiE21tRQJ3WkicASHUycY3mkUmH2bG420fAqXqIA5GthQnBVXZ71I3LkqDj4Z9hMzxyQaD82k/s400/printing+plastic+plate+for+nature+prints+%25281%2529.jpg" width="225" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A section of the plastic inking 'plate'<br />showing interesting textures - an abstract image in itself.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
I really enjoyed this experiment in nature printing and if you get the opportunity have a try yourself. Even if you don't have printing ink and a roller, why not see what effects are possible using acrylic, gouache or watercolour applied to your subject matter with a brush?</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />Tod Evanshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15888236635332828208noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1589919365805446787.post-30567133130687871102015-05-29T06:10:00.002-07:002015-05-29T06:10:49.381-07:00Focus on Flowers Workshop at Dobbies<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhxG56Wi-upJD2bKr9op-bv-WVqMW39T6WxrA7LeJWAwfgIe28CQyvVi9krDKfOHQi8PUmi3JAPKRP-kQWJKxgJ7XMM0yDdgrXGmzrOTdBhWm0oeLcbMlbgl3pTlogO9DVCl_mrm9jd-aE/s1600/20150525_172104.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhxG56Wi-upJD2bKr9op-bv-WVqMW39T6WxrA7LeJWAwfgIe28CQyvVi9krDKfOHQi8PUmi3JAPKRP-kQWJKxgJ7XMM0yDdgrXGmzrOTdBhWm0oeLcbMlbgl3pTlogO9DVCl_mrm9jd-aE/s320/20150525_172104.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
The <i>Focus on Flowers </i>Workshop at Dobbies Garden Centre, King's Lynn, was a great success and based on the feedback from participants it would seem everyone went away armed with some nuggets of new information and enthusiasm for tackling more flower drawings and paintings.<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEguvR2LlvhELV2R_RQWIu4NMUIcvfzGvPWSTyklQOF1jOyVbt6B8YC3N9NyQ9xJGlg5R-NVcGgl0JrL21qR33KKouZHGLar1EPddyvjnUCssGrhh2PnIxGLeVizz0lZcbMwJf3IR8ruHuQ/s1600/20150525_172117.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEguvR2LlvhELV2R_RQWIu4NMUIcvfzGvPWSTyklQOF1jOyVbt6B8YC3N9NyQ9xJGlg5R-NVcGgl0JrL21qR33KKouZHGLar1EPddyvjnUCssGrhh2PnIxGLeVizz0lZcbMwJf3IR8ruHuQ/s320/20150525_172117.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
The four photos here show some of the preparatory work in a sketchbook for discussing how the basic structure of most flowers fall into one of eight categories.<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiVU-hrNLpNOeOzfTW_eWke9jfYfMnvP2pAR7Nh-Qp1gL1B395HWFcErLHw1GWaD_Xl1Zni2tymou0rBzW8UBHVW8q0jbxsb_OXRaA67ylNFX5pyu7zRBnciJ7ggcGQTMsOHn5I9hwxy88/s1600/20150525_172129.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiVU-hrNLpNOeOzfTW_eWke9jfYfMnvP2pAR7Nh-Qp1gL1B395HWFcErLHw1GWaD_Xl1Zni2tymou0rBzW8UBHVW8q0jbxsb_OXRaA67ylNFX5pyu7zRBnciJ7ggcGQTMsOHn5I9hwxy88/s320/20150525_172129.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
This was the subject I introduced at the beginning before we moved out into the garden centre and had a go at some structure drawings from live plants.<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0zWPlElHDT9b4LTc-t3JOq9FIRs0vnneyOSggn-Enk6XEHAXRmYoK8B6RPucAOnXrsQGLVUTM-6pBaHKWjAQWBHCHpoJrCxMrCHiU4pwruQRqj-JEp8f6XQZD5RzpR86quSaQhFBYQCU/s1600/20150525_172143.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0zWPlElHDT9b4LTc-t3JOq9FIRs0vnneyOSggn-Enk6XEHAXRmYoK8B6RPucAOnXrsQGLVUTM-6pBaHKWjAQWBHCHpoJrCxMrCHiU4pwruQRqj-JEp8f6XQZD5RzpR86quSaQhFBYQCU/s320/20150525_172143.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
This led into focusing on how tone adds information about the light source, form of the subject and where things are in space, even if it is very a shallow space rather than the foreground / middleground / background of an expansive landscape. There was time to settle and work on one longer tonal study or several shorter ones.<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
Light and shade visually allows areas to come forward and others to recede - even though it is just a flat piece of paper!<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdaLbEvlwfjd1h45aN8uhls9qm369YW5eCYN_eZWRmJwjw1qjQ7BFH_iXyDVr1lO63PL3cOAsKJ_aIkRl_nEpYRJymaWaAiP0IXS24N4rhrWfANn3edp2gMSr5rYxZtQ4s80zAr_h29IM/s1600/20150525_172335.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdaLbEvlwfjd1h45aN8uhls9qm369YW5eCYN_eZWRmJwjw1qjQ7BFH_iXyDVr1lO63PL3cOAsKJ_aIkRl_nEpYRJymaWaAiP0IXS24N4rhrWfANn3edp2gMSr5rYxZtQ4s80zAr_h29IM/s400/20150525_172335.jpg" width="225" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYREDG8lXtuB2fYuYnsQy4DPfcXg_TFMMSp2eEhPEEAKNVTD-6Qb3OHRsFPZyfllFN1UfFRENbdPlzf0CQfaw-qKUmrAGetJA9mY6CwstkPPOPJtXekZkqZQcigjEaHnbcQImDLCFcBTg/s1600/20150525_172239.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYREDG8lXtuB2fYuYnsQy4DPfcXg_TFMMSp2eEhPEEAKNVTD-6Qb3OHRsFPZyfllFN1UfFRENbdPlzf0CQfaw-qKUmrAGetJA9mY6CwstkPPOPJtXekZkqZQcigjEaHnbcQImDLCFcBTg/s400/20150525_172239.jpg" width="225" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi8Pnnr4RQFob8iubsO-qkA82bBSGAMesvTcZOQBFaESoLEExGB32Y73hqrDgKXSBz3lMHpbH8u0XKYjd-kSmQZBr0mxthZpWQF3V1YRjN8VwDnD5X6kOUMs0WXrHTVY60SY7ZPO8NJcTs/s1600/Focus+on+Flowers+Workshop+at+Dobbies+Garden+Centre%252C+20+May%252C+2015+%25284%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi8Pnnr4RQFob8iubsO-qkA82bBSGAMesvTcZOQBFaESoLEExGB32Y73hqrDgKXSBz3lMHpbH8u0XKYjd-kSmQZBr0mxthZpWQF3V1YRjN8VwDnD5X6kOUMs0WXrHTVY60SY7ZPO8NJcTs/s320/Focus+on+Flowers+Workshop+at+Dobbies+Garden+Centre%252C+20+May%252C+2015+%25284%2529.jpg" width="180" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgy26z8zvaAGxpE2qtZczGdMFrj86tyed51ht6JMi8INdKzPKCewfNbj_CELfhgOHTk2JeOJ-lJPzI0KX_p435_pAAXFP7zHZw8lgcS52W3tS4I4NJVs2pGEk_eW3NSj1DT-KqkZhIuZMc/s1600/Focus+on+Flowers+Workshop+at+Dobbies+Garden+Centre%252C+20+May%252C+2015+%25282%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgy26z8zvaAGxpE2qtZczGdMFrj86tyed51ht6JMi8INdKzPKCewfNbj_CELfhgOHTk2JeOJ-lJPzI0KX_p435_pAAXFP7zHZw8lgcS52W3tS4I4NJVs2pGEk_eW3NSj1DT-KqkZhIuZMc/s320/Focus+on+Flowers+Workshop+at+Dobbies+Garden+Centre%252C+20+May%252C+2015+%25282%2529.jpg" width="180" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi8LYg70yrWhWn-sdFnyeZvexmXGp7q1qQ8MnxhxJWMVNICWlGbEFki5pcxdhRXPKAkOSxGG_x_0-lV6sBvuPQlDgiCIWwZePDHAzG6PtJ8lC1lq_IS5Pib9QVZp9XYvD7RkgfA6U15Xu4/s1600/Focus+on+Flowers+Workshop+at+Dobbies+Garden+Centre%252C+20+May%252C+2015+%25283%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi8LYg70yrWhWn-sdFnyeZvexmXGp7q1qQ8MnxhxJWMVNICWlGbEFki5pcxdhRXPKAkOSxGG_x_0-lV6sBvuPQlDgiCIWwZePDHAzG6PtJ8lC1lq_IS5Pib9QVZp9XYvD7RkgfA6U15Xu4/s320/Focus+on+Flowers+Workshop+at+Dobbies+Garden+Centre%252C+20+May%252C+2015+%25283%2529.jpg" width="180" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjas43FrdXZjP_XsZVdOlrEH81FGG8B8j6y_NMXvDzPTBZrmNldImaRCUkmjLy_XoeLnExAUXshDlm12vfap3XAhtG5nXAa3ACqgncvx5tkqUNrJToJw-FHvW9VcmEfkJK2ZekQavYCgII/s1600/Focus+on+Flowers+Workshop+at+Dobbies+Garden+Centre%252C+20+May%252C+2015+%25285%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjas43FrdXZjP_XsZVdOlrEH81FGG8B8j6y_NMXvDzPTBZrmNldImaRCUkmjLy_XoeLnExAUXshDlm12vfap3XAhtG5nXAa3ACqgncvx5tkqUNrJToJw-FHvW9VcmEfkJK2ZekQavYCgII/s320/Focus+on+Flowers+Workshop+at+Dobbies+Garden+Centre%252C+20+May%252C+2015+%25285%2529.jpg" width="180" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
We had a break for lunch in the restaurant area and enjoyed a delicious meal of jacket potatoes with a variety of fillings and a salad garnish. As we sipped tea and coffee there was reflection on experiences so far, and a few people mentioned how interested some customers had been in what was going on and how different it was for them to see flowers being drawn in sketchbooks.<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
The afternoon was devoted to using watercolour and working from a flower specimen individually chosen from the garden centre. Strategies practised in the morning helped with getting a basic drawing in place; and one participant, feeling bold, decided to go straight in with paint and use soft fusions of colour as her starting point. I had demonstrated briefly some of the main useful watercolour techniques and also how coloured or water soluble pencils can be successfully incorporated to enhance passages in the work.<br />
<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6f_9H6KtbhamR55P2p1V52I9r232axcglxaszfH_9wOxRdFT24XDm5r221gdgd1LYE49hoB1dlSREdaUfxDbw5sLsg-tikyY_94I0pvkZC2_5zz4UZpPym6VllVcXfisSj8RujGR34Xc/s1600/Focus+on+Flowers+Workshop+at+Dobbies+Garden+Centre%252C+20+May%252C+2015+%25288%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6f_9H6KtbhamR55P2p1V52I9r232axcglxaszfH_9wOxRdFT24XDm5r221gdgd1LYE49hoB1dlSREdaUfxDbw5sLsg-tikyY_94I0pvkZC2_5zz4UZpPym6VllVcXfisSj8RujGR34Xc/s400/Focus+on+Flowers+Workshop+at+Dobbies+Garden+Centre%252C+20+May%252C+2015+%25288%2529.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Working from chosen flower specimens.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkPQWNFogbJR3p7CLBTIm4h-YkDRC4bxGSBk1rn_5Nuo9BHpOoRH5iMrMQyUiQjjiTKoCz3o3FtJpIpZzgbIxECWSwhPOCy2pMp6ItJpfyvcsKnCvUObg-Diz4PXtQ1wE_CbgLg4bSYps/s1600/Focus+on+Flowers+Workshop+at+Dobbies+Garden+Centre%252C+20+May%252C+2015+%25289%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkPQWNFogbJR3p7CLBTIm4h-YkDRC4bxGSBk1rn_5Nuo9BHpOoRH5iMrMQyUiQjjiTKoCz3o3FtJpIpZzgbIxECWSwhPOCy2pMp6ItJpfyvcsKnCvUObg-Diz4PXtQ1wE_CbgLg4bSYps/s400/Focus+on+Flowers+Workshop+at+Dobbies+Garden+Centre%252C+20+May%252C+2015+%25289%2529.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Focused on their flowers, observation and creativity...</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
There was a break mid afternoon and Dobbies supplied us with more refreshments and plates of wonderful cakes and traybakes. Then it was back to work...<br />
<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGU8XM3lJgmyJhRccq8zeqfEo0uvFt6-S8nnXPOgDVUIY2WVA93Sdec7frp-lj6GsBSDbTvO1JBNsRAG8lJltP3f4JhOQLM7zTjeONjJo8oJFKUhygwnlKn2N-TOa6pAQi4W1DrcPKaUQ/s1600/Focus+on+Flowers+Workshop+at+Dobbies+Garden+Centre%252C+20+May%252C+2015+%252815%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGU8XM3lJgmyJhRccq8zeqfEo0uvFt6-S8nnXPOgDVUIY2WVA93Sdec7frp-lj6GsBSDbTvO1JBNsRAG8lJltP3f4JhOQLM7zTjeONjJo8oJFKUhygwnlKn2N-TOa6pAQi4W1DrcPKaUQ/s400/Focus+on+Flowers+Workshop+at+Dobbies+Garden+Centre%252C+20+May%252C+2015+%252815%2529.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Light and airy in Dobbies restaurant, and plenty of room to work.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
It was a great day - lovely company, delicious food and plenty of teas, coffees and iced juice to keep the brain cells alert. I thank all the staff at Dobbies for their welcome and generosity in accomodating us. As the weather warms up, your garden comes to fruition and the local parks show off colourful flower displays, try capturing some of that beauty in a sketchbook or painting as a memory of time spent observing nature closely.<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />Tod Evanshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15888236635332828208noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1589919365805446787.post-75290469956358411332015-05-16T16:19:00.000-07:002015-05-17T00:40:13.277-07:00Sketchbooks Galore!<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkJH7TSQKc-sweWSyCPq8Tyij1RPf14vOdC4HBUUwS_4o8OD78BSbZbVQppHO6zTHJhj0HrwFhwU9Pq-JzPfVr_wZBZPyy9V5TiOALryYZbEtlwXAQUQ297w9GtvjaFxQMdK-96MrwHqM/s1600/Social+Sketchbook,+The+Walks,+May+2015+crop.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="273" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkJH7TSQKc-sweWSyCPq8Tyij1RPf14vOdC4HBUUwS_4o8OD78BSbZbVQppHO6zTHJhj0HrwFhwU9Pq-JzPfVr_wZBZPyy9V5TiOALryYZbEtlwXAQUQ297w9GtvjaFxQMdK-96MrwHqM/s400/Social+Sketchbook,+The+Walks,+May+2015+crop.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Sketchbook pages from Social Sketchbook event in The Walks.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
The past week and a half has been full of sketchbook work... First was the Social Sketchbook event in The Walks, a lovely large park in King's Lynn. We arranged to meet at the bandstand which had been undergoing some renovation work and as we assembled the protective metal barriers were being removed - what perfect timing! As I arrived early I had already begun to sketch the bandstand. It is not my usual preferred subject matter and with some tricky perspective issues it was one I began to wish I hadn't started. So, as you can see below, I abandoned the idea of any realism and went for a quick pen and wash rendition.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEheMxvdR-CfBUPFQB_UB5UwldPH7MKz0ZWscH-CbBXDano53vOyzMp6jWgKc1XhY5F5DqtuDQ5wiCDnZAmxmnLLWYZuM5Lzzl4Hj8r-bYGL941dPbH9Bf3ESukoRKUX3nwFCCTtIhmWQTI/s1600/Social+Sketchbook,+The+Walks,+May+2015+(15).jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEheMxvdR-CfBUPFQB_UB5UwldPH7MKz0ZWscH-CbBXDano53vOyzMp6jWgKc1XhY5F5DqtuDQ5wiCDnZAmxmnLLWYZuM5Lzzl4Hj8r-bYGL941dPbH9Bf3ESukoRKUX3nwFCCTtIhmWQTI/s400/Social+Sketchbook,+The+Walks,+May+2015+(15).jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Correct perspective abandoned so I could just enjoy approximate shapes <br />
and a dash of colour. The allium buds were there too, but the horse was the last<br />
thing I sketched at the previous Social Sketchbook in Stow Bardolph.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
The weather was bright but definitely breezy and had most of us seeking more sheltered spots. There was plenty of variety for subjects including the river, ducks, bridge arches over the water, planted areas, wild areas and many different tree species. One big attraction for me was the old town wall. When I walked through the arch to the other side the wind suddenly hit much colder and stronger and I had to admire one member who had bravely set up her seat and been working there since the start!<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgkC2T93aLYK4PoVTIx7KDCPT-85ZBTJdAExByUFvewaTL9sOwD0S0GqRzAjkZ9Wq6Y7taSO4uLpAWbMJc3c09D0MkIzeQ5jFQsTYnefCeIj2b01r9ZOtD_lrZjW66GxqZFuR25RUVKO94/s1600/Old+Town+Wall,+May+2015.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="305" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgkC2T93aLYK4PoVTIx7KDCPT-85ZBTJdAExByUFvewaTL9sOwD0S0GqRzAjkZ9Wq6Y7taSO4uLpAWbMJc3c09D0MkIzeQ5jFQsTYnefCeIj2b01r9ZOtD_lrZjW66GxqZFuR25RUVKO94/s400/Old+Town+Wall,+May+2015.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">This was as far as I got sketching the old town wall before the cold set in <br />
but we were due to reassemble anyway...</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
It is probably just visible in the photo above that the double spread page in the sketchbook had been prepared at home with gesso tinted with acrylic colour. A technique I like to introduce to add variety and texture when working in pencil.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmZBYZk8qpIAWJh_IRAcDAPKzP0iS5yLHD_pYiNcFmqL74u5S185AnFXPXHYe-Xu4xLTG3aOf6yYGYZCxhgQWnApDlxYv2SnsZppmBI9Qff6T-JlJrJcJBgZ7FNfykirY-1Xcx5aACs5k/s1600/Social+Sketchbook,+The+Walks,+May+2015+(14).jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmZBYZk8qpIAWJh_IRAcDAPKzP0iS5yLHD_pYiNcFmqL74u5S185AnFXPXHYe-Xu4xLTG3aOf6yYGYZCxhgQWnApDlxYv2SnsZppmBI9Qff6T-JlJrJcJBgZ7FNfykirY-1Xcx5aACs5k/s400/Social+Sketchbook,+The+Walks,+May+2015+(14).jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Congratulations to the hardy Social Sketchbookers at the end of a morning in the park! </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4TTB3CvkRaM5Mqi5MmkH_wCYb3drO910XGcfyJ8CAXADGGeXfV6Kzvdi89s40hjvdm0H0ueBAN65fsihsnkGODya3gvZ2aBXXCg6DYPnXnc-He_Iv4K97-7dca8SDichDWkXBf4Jy7NY/s1600/Base+of+tree+trunk,+May+2015.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4TTB3CvkRaM5Mqi5MmkH_wCYb3drO910XGcfyJ8CAXADGGeXfV6Kzvdi89s40hjvdm0H0ueBAN65fsihsnkGODya3gvZ2aBXXCg6DYPnXnc-He_Iv4K97-7dca8SDichDWkXBf4Jy7NY/s400/Base+of+tree+trunk,+May+2015.jpg" width="278" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">My 25 minute final sketch to capture a little of sprouting leaves<br />
and the lumps and bumps at the base of a fascinating tree trunk.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
My second sketchbook event was to lead two morning workshop sessions for Freebridge Community Housing. They have a Wellbeing Week for staff and put on a variety of activities. Last year I ran a charcoal drawing workshop and this time I decided to do a Quink Ink Drawing session. I arrived laden with paper; card; small jars of decanted black Quink ink; dip pens, wooden skewers and feather quills for drawing with; covers to protect the tables; water; pots; brushes and masses of natural objects to use for inspiration.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgMcac6AVYerRtRyQdrNmo7cgORgjlhUZl4k6dLZ9o0YvYCKpPuBGQXxDeRest8naqdfCWPMOZPVXoc11K-etHtacMm_DNJPpVpSiuCSV7oynr0jQPvx1xxreLKgRRu7AGcQkBgDdYK76o/s1600/Freebridge+WoW+Quink+Ink+Drawing+Workshop,+May+2015+(2).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgMcac6AVYerRtRyQdrNmo7cgORgjlhUZl4k6dLZ9o0YvYCKpPuBGQXxDeRest8naqdfCWPMOZPVXoc11K-etHtacMm_DNJPpVpSiuCSV7oynr0jQPvx1xxreLKgRRu7AGcQkBgDdYK76o/s400/Freebridge+WoW+Quink+Ink+Drawing+Workshop,+May+2015+(2).JPG" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: 12.8000001907349px;">Drawing with Quink ink in handmade simple accordian sketchbooks at</span><br />
<span style="font-size: 12.8000001907349px;">Freebridge Wellbeing Week.</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
The sessions started with an introduction to Quink ink and a short demonstration on using the various drawing tools and introducing water to allow the ink to bleed and create washes. When the wet ink floats in the water the components disperse into blues, greys and ochres - like magic! After a practice with mark making and trying out the techniques themselves we constructed small scale simple accordian sketchbooks, glued on coloured card for the outer covers and the remainder of the time was spent filling them with delightful sketches based on the natural objects.<br />
<br />
Due to the less sophisticated drawing tools and the unpredictable nature of the ink the results were full of character and the accumulation of these drawings was impressive. The participants seemed happy and relaxed, chatting as they worked so I hope the experience was beneficial and contributed positively to Wellbeing Week.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhnM2zuEFhITzY3AtixZIXU9HW7iqURGIXd4GKVqkumTQyqGTh2nVU5u0U11ERik9Oa9EfCcZpI8FSj3XSc5ZPwhsANvaTbwPguqnJFkPgGVWon8gfjSoTV5GriwBovbHT0EDP1NiXlkPY/s1600/Freebridge+WoW+Quink+Ink+Drawing+Workshop,+May+2015.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhnM2zuEFhITzY3AtixZIXU9HW7iqURGIXd4GKVqkumTQyqGTh2nVU5u0U11ERik9Oa9EfCcZpI8FSj3XSc5ZPwhsANvaTbwPguqnJFkPgGVWon8gfjSoTV5GriwBovbHT0EDP1NiXlkPY/s400/Freebridge+WoW+Quink+Ink+Drawing+Workshop,+May+2015.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 12.8000001907349px;">Accumulation of drawings full of character.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
So now I am busy with final preparations for the <i>Focus on Flowers </i>workshop at Dobbies Garden Centre and the morning element involves - you guessed - sketchbooks! The afternoon will be time for a longer study using watercolours and coloured pencils.<br />
<br />
Just to finish this post I'd like to return to the drawing session in the park. When I did a 'research' trip, prior to making the arrangements, as I wandered round I remember thinking 'why don't I come here more often?' and at the end of the Social Setchbook event many others voiced this thought as well. Spending time in an area, looking, drawing, experiencing sights and sounds over a more intense period of activity is a great way to really get to know a place. Highy recommended. If you find a small parcel of time in the coming weeks, grab that sketchbook and favourite drawing tool and get out in the open, especially as the weather improves... <br />
<br />
<br />Tod Evanshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15888236635332828208noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1589919365805446787.post-79824220247708394732015-05-04T16:19:00.000-07:002015-05-04T16:19:35.181-07:00Owl Sketches & Painting on the Patio<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhviunTVnvk6dVXANFVxnQJfJ3dc-xRuXSoM5PuD6bnPOUylmSdV6ehwhOSZwmd4SXafImPyKIBr4nWjpwfiXr14KnNdyHTo3A4To57QKLeVH97HBIALLJskEmrfUxBNLQ2ySmytfqETQ0/s1600/taxidermy+owls.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhviunTVnvk6dVXANFVxnQJfJ3dc-xRuXSoM5PuD6bnPOUylmSdV6ehwhOSZwmd4SXafImPyKIBr4nWjpwfiXr14KnNdyHTo3A4To57QKLeVH97HBIALLJskEmrfUxBNLQ2ySmytfqETQ0/s400/taxidermy+owls.JPG" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Tawny owl & long-eared owl - taxidermy specimens.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
These two visitors have been gracing my studio recently. They are taxidermy specimens (borrowed) and offer a great opportunity to study these beautiful owls. However, when working from taxidermy be aware that there can be discrepancies to the real thing - in this case both suffer from flattened feathers as they usually live in a local school and have been stroked a lot I think! The long-eared owl also has a rather alarming list to one side which I tried to correct in my drawing...</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgACaAarIAD0AyO6fzbVfdnDIytAHosP_Ot0QzoQEeAgswZqZ7gzfmEH1rLEjC3rYEwe5PuPyrLbpB0T3ftMEJVKcAFE3UGhCPkv1U7rdkrpQ1HF1Z5HK8TMHsgJd4jXryND64uTbIlEuQ/s1600/tawny+owl,+pencil.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="338" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgACaAarIAD0AyO6fzbVfdnDIytAHosP_Ot0QzoQEeAgswZqZ7gzfmEH1rLEjC3rYEwe5PuPyrLbpB0T3ftMEJVKcAFE3UGhCPkv1U7rdkrpQ1HF1Z5HK8TMHsgJd4jXryND64uTbIlEuQ/s400/tawny+owl,+pencil.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Tawny owl sketch, pencil.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Tawny owls are woodland birds and make the characteristic owl hoot. Several years ago I was fortunate to spy one sitting in a tree in the front garden at dusk. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-kS6xP7HruuP1D3CRjtuTJRbixtr7AzSjDnClobP6Ceb7EznK-rKWeMrR5fMpdLc5jJ1gGn1IVOrTO2GQ0HIQQG5W1u14EXy_QTy_477EPyR1Ly7pdQWmTSDFCjB2SSkI6peAbaWYuKM/s1600/IMG_7658.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-kS6xP7HruuP1D3CRjtuTJRbixtr7AzSjDnClobP6Ceb7EznK-rKWeMrR5fMpdLc5jJ1gGn1IVOrTO2GQ0HIQQG5W1u14EXy_QTy_477EPyR1Ly7pdQWmTSDFCjB2SSkI6peAbaWYuKM/s400/IMG_7658.JPG" width="226" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Long-eared owl sketch, pencil.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
The long-eared owl does often have the long, thin appearance of this specimen and feature head feathers which are known as ear tufts. These are not actually ears, but get raised when the bird is alarmed. I have never seen one in the wild although they do live in Britain but don't seem to be as common as the tawny or barn owl.<br />
<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFW223t8AM4T4KzelAFqsJ1R_jM1lnF-4nRS-fQZlK6pTw5QQX4YZkIIukYU5bx8uFgH9J19bdrQ1T5FrJK4aP0WNdk9qhCzYPCy2y12qMKuH9yzg2yFUELpaQ4c3ku8IS-k3s7JFV2dw/s1600/Pericallis+'Senetti'.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFW223t8AM4T4KzelAFqsJ1R_jM1lnF-4nRS-fQZlK6pTw5QQX4YZkIIukYU5bx8uFgH9J19bdrQ1T5FrJK4aP0WNdk9qhCzYPCy2y12qMKuH9yzg2yFUELpaQ4c3ku8IS-k3s7JFV2dw/s400/Pericallis+'Senetti'.JPG" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i>Pericallis 'Senetti'</i>, charcoal on A3 cartridge paper.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
Today I was determined to have a play with art materials and as the weather was warm and sunny I decided to work on the patio. To 'warm up' - artistically, not physically - I started with a charcoal drawing of a delightful potted plant. I was attracted by the simple flowers with long curvy petals and the leaf shapes. I blended charcoal onto the paper surface first to create a mid-tone and then used a charcoal pencil for the line work with an eraser to lift out the lights. The work builds quite quickly with this method and helps prevent fiddly detailing.<br />
<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwZHtJGgeiNHKLLqtLC57XxEw1QaA6N-A6D8Ez4amZ9fKiuefQ47nNehEpGYtVhXIPcLRmaKpcWOMHghVNGUstUP4QpwDvh1-ILV-pzxVC9UWGZivX0TGhb4JYN4KwWJERAOEZBslNnJo/s1600/ferns+in+pot.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwZHtJGgeiNHKLLqtLC57XxEw1QaA6N-A6D8Ez4amZ9fKiuefQ47nNehEpGYtVhXIPcLRmaKpcWOMHghVNGUstUP4QpwDvh1-ILV-pzxVC9UWGZivX0TGhb4JYN4KwWJERAOEZBslNnJo/s400/ferns+in+pot.JPG" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Fern in a patio pot, placed on the table for easier observation.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
After a break for a cup of tea my eye fell upon this fern which lives in what I call my damp 'woodland' area of the patio... actually it's just a dank corner which never gets any sun, but the ferns and hostas seem happy there. I have added some logs, rocks and pebbles which have been colonised by mosses to support the theme. I began again in my 8x8" sketchbook by observing the curve and unfurling of several stems in pencil. Then moved into watercolour, initially using just the brush and paint but this seemed rather weak in terms of an image so I introduced pencil once it had dried. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgvrBQTTw9B9lXWG6TrIfJKy0Mn1qGm-MvwT8a_X9BJDHYbfhWspgHTXSUL2qnZGyHQBNUC-PzfjspUsHA2uAANNYlpYScgJLpxpV0Uw9BMRPUxUICj1pNsD35mOxqQYuohKHnspc03rS4/s1600/fern,+pencil,+sketchbook.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgvrBQTTw9B9lXWG6TrIfJKy0Mn1qGm-MvwT8a_X9BJDHYbfhWspgHTXSUL2qnZGyHQBNUC-PzfjspUsHA2uAANNYlpYScgJLpxpV0Uw9BMRPUxUICj1pNsD35mOxqQYuohKHnspc03rS4/s400/fern,+pencil,+sketchbook.JPG" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Fern drawn in pencil in sketchbook.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br /><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZEGaY7BeABbeCKiS0XUn6LYV1ALkOR-zq8_4VIj0dqDLXsm84ybFzXDal1v3rmQmYubezNPXudqwTMXMPwBUoE8Pb-Z2ikVOx76eXZeeqBUj0weIAU1srU_6yS97_aZE69wLEbdoogOI/s1600/fern,+watercolour,+sketchbook+1.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZEGaY7BeABbeCKiS0XUn6LYV1ALkOR-zq8_4VIj0dqDLXsm84ybFzXDal1v3rmQmYubezNPXudqwTMXMPwBUoE8Pb-Z2ikVOx76eXZeeqBUj0weIAU1srU_6yS97_aZE69wLEbdoogOI/s400/fern,+watercolour,+sketchbook+1.JPG" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Fern in watercolour, <br />drawing directly with paint.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhyhsbAUELdhcvr_HdE_xL_tcQHiH06acVpdjkKwtH1lBrLkGExaxG0JGeLlAO9HOP7sUVaDMzETHgcxZzzM3sfDMDgdvlYF1GGTrTdizp1esHJ5iNO_OT9-HZTFMvodzZfJA60Ui9ZPWM/s1600/fern,+watercolour,+sketchbook+2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhyhsbAUELdhcvr_HdE_xL_tcQHiH06acVpdjkKwtH1lBrLkGExaxG0JGeLlAO9HOP7sUVaDMzETHgcxZzzM3sfDMDgdvlYF1GGTrTdizp1esHJ5iNO_OT9-HZTFMvodzZfJA60Ui9ZPWM/s400/fern,+watercolour,+sketchbook+2.JPG" width="260" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Added pencil to strengthen work, <br />but seemed lost on page...</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTfCXVyi2KV4mrhyphenhyphen70on_jle5LIZoN_YR_SO6l3kN9iEAFuwtdsIf_v_SAXHDylRZEs49ubGsrIln8xEi3uBHTkqk71e8w9-n8FkdBcbH246AM3fS-mJ2Jjz2O1tpfd01bJrlov9q57JE/s1600/fern,+watercolour,+sketchbook+3.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTfCXVyi2KV4mrhyphenhyphen70on_jle5LIZoN_YR_SO6l3kN9iEAFuwtdsIf_v_SAXHDylRZEs49ubGsrIln8xEi3uBHTkqk71e8w9-n8FkdBcbH246AM3fS-mJ2Jjz2O1tpfd01bJrlov9q57JE/s400/fern,+watercolour,+sketchbook+3.JPG" width="284" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Extended pencil work beyond <br />painted areas and finally <br />a rather wobbly 'frame' to anchor on page.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
As I had hoped to get into actually doing a painting of some sort I decided to continue with the fern and taped two A4 size sheets of 140lb Bockingford watercolour paper (Not surface) to a board and placed this on a metal easel. As I wanted to get away from a totally representational image I chose to work with less realistic colour in a limited palette. I worked on both paintings simultaneously but present the sequences as <i>Fern 1</i> and <i>Fern 2</i> so the stages are easier to follow. </div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEizrBwsg5xjIPH5QX3YmbnEXzxJPqo6vbHBBepCIfB_DPjAEb6bG7ThXblKToWXDK5w55CPLHzlDCX811XnEKO3q9lQ1uC1u-tFsYnxeQbnQ2MQGq0YDUui-SUL3IMJC1tKDksCwrO_zdk/s1600/fern+1A.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEizrBwsg5xjIPH5QX3YmbnEXzxJPqo6vbHBBepCIfB_DPjAEb6bG7ThXblKToWXDK5w55CPLHzlDCX811XnEKO3q9lQ1uC1u-tFsYnxeQbnQ2MQGq0YDUui-SUL3IMJC1tKDksCwrO_zdk/s400/fern+1A.JPG" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i>Fern 1</i> - watercolour variegated wash & when almost dry<br />spattered clean water to create visual texture.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgIX-1l1P-pswaELaBetxFa_jCmUT4Ez0woCu2APDh6jPKSCR00qCUYzoPRkOo0cuq69l33E84n3egRK_eI9eNtX2ygwfnd4FwwjBxwVNPAW0pJarfekDrFtfXyIa6txd29EkGh9_YcmOU/s1600/fern+1B.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgIX-1l1P-pswaELaBetxFa_jCmUT4Ez0woCu2APDh6jPKSCR00qCUYzoPRkOo0cuq69l33E84n3egRK_eI9eNtX2ygwfnd4FwwjBxwVNPAW0pJarfekDrFtfXyIa6txd29EkGh9_YcmOU/s400/fern+1B.JPG" width="281" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i>Fern 1</i> - added some strokes of colour with pastel sticks<br />then brushed clean water over this to disperse. <br />Once this layer had dried I began to draw with pastel pencil. </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEia7nO7S4bPPRFgeUMK0fmBCWcgCU281HmOtQyW5PdOhuvkV1ay_7EwtFKjug9lzcOi3aU2DOr3a8UX2fvRjKpdIHQ7jc7HSPX2-oNo57v3Wqi5fBnMpUJ45IUNbKDOHswrZ3fus_QgLds/s1600/fern+1C.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEia7nO7S4bPPRFgeUMK0fmBCWcgCU281HmOtQyW5PdOhuvkV1ay_7EwtFKjug9lzcOi3aU2DOr3a8UX2fvRjKpdIHQ7jc7HSPX2-oNo57v3Wqi5fBnMpUJ45IUNbKDOHswrZ3fus_QgLds/s400/fern+1C.JPG" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i>Fern 1</i> - continued to build up fern motifs <br />until I felt I had 'said' enough.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div style="text-align: left;">
And finally <i>Fern 2</i>...</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjarqYYCjGG1CW4kzuW2HVcSxRIynYMQul44Whw7ffRtKs4G2k5yI2Xw5valvrJOHSxhqfTFBBuSpgCy9JyBvDsUOBlcfjHImCYwfUzxDJ6rYRGIHzFpjL53QFOhfWTBDJlv_tjxcwpEJY/s1600/fern+2A.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjarqYYCjGG1CW4kzuW2HVcSxRIynYMQul44Whw7ffRtKs4G2k5yI2Xw5valvrJOHSxhqfTFBBuSpgCy9JyBvDsUOBlcfjHImCYwfUzxDJ6rYRGIHzFpjL53QFOhfWTBDJlv_tjxcwpEJY/s400/fern+2A.JPG" width="272" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i>Fern 2</i> - watercolour underpainting, <br />again spattered with water to create mottled effect.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1uxFxFUsZ5V5gU0pezvgUZvq_cZbSYP8pP9Q_wnO9KCekpy1eJBz2KMzsMxrsvwVFSpWywoMl55Z17cOa7Ss32uzaYVPTTQ2FpC_rQojxgzg1yUc3TYJK0PxCTyxh2_4_6r1YJ51oaG4/s1600/fern+2B.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1uxFxFUsZ5V5gU0pezvgUZvq_cZbSYP8pP9Q_wnO9KCekpy1eJBz2KMzsMxrsvwVFSpWywoMl55Z17cOa7Ss32uzaYVPTTQ2FpC_rQojxgzg1yUc3TYJK0PxCTyxh2_4_6r1YJ51oaG4/s400/fern+2B.JPG" width="273" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i>Fern 2</i> - sweeps of pastel sticks then water brushed over<br />which creates drips and granulation. Once dry, pastel pencils<br />to describe fern forms.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhfriHWS9FK0hOwlFTIEEPRVax5KuvhyphenhyphenSTDQ7Tc3IPKBqVwKPktHV2H-ZGFEFpmSoo-nAOhBRCogLYGQzgPhBzMqlxEY8Zz0j5XwDkQXJUumHPMsnI6OljZdMEUVKmVj58Sl9H4-qPjp6U/s1600/fern+2C.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhfriHWS9FK0hOwlFTIEEPRVax5KuvhyphenhyphenSTDQ7Tc3IPKBqVwKPktHV2H-ZGFEFpmSoo-nAOhBRCogLYGQzgPhBzMqlxEY8Zz0j5XwDkQXJUumHPMsnI6OljZdMEUVKmVj58Sl9H4-qPjp6U/s400/fern+2C.JPG" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i>Fern 2</i> - continue to build up painting <br />with addition of more pastel pencil.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Having experienced a bit of a drought on the creative front recently I am pleased with the results of this afternoon. I enjoyed working in the sketchbook first and certainly feel observing and sketching the fern before attempting the two mixed media paintings helped to create a looser interpretation. I certainly won't be exhibiting or framing them but feel there is some merit in the layering and textural qualities that appeal to me. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
If you also feel stuck in a rut or the creative well has temporarily run dry, take the pressure off and give yourself permission to be side tracked by small studies and experiments... who knows where they might lead?</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
Tod Evanshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15888236635332828208noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1589919365805446787.post-85516124208861185742015-04-26T16:48:00.000-07:002015-04-27T02:42:05.284-07:00Change... Artist Block, and an Action Plan!<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibiNv8aPgrRniBhW7CZPBrjhsDCsQcot28ygSQ_-2E5YsYOUmJEhNehc9dKIMtLdZZ4uJ7tSwpNO8aGApfKsuybqo-f_EXXc5EAHA5cKhRWypPO0o7Gx1wiLBaZ38ZFhppcU6mMZAFi6E/s1600/Hendersons+closing+Down+signs.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibiNv8aPgrRniBhW7CZPBrjhsDCsQcot28ygSQ_-2E5YsYOUmJEhNehc9dKIMtLdZZ4uJ7tSwpNO8aGApfKsuybqo-f_EXXc5EAHA5cKhRWypPO0o7Gx1wiLBaZ38ZFhppcU6mMZAFi6E/s1600/Hendersons+closing+Down+signs.jpg" height="290" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">End of an era... Henderson Art & Framing closing down sale.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
Change now is inevitable, and I am still trying to get used to the fact that Henderson Art & Framing is now closing and will finally be locking the doors at the end of May. In the meantime they have a half price closing down sale so if you live nearby hurry along to stock up, and resolve to continue your art journey, one way or another! (Fortunately Bill will continue framing from home). Henderson's has been a big part of my life for the past 7 years and I have gained so much enjoyment and experience whilst working there as a freelance art tutor.<br />
<br />
I have put several plans in place so that my class members will be able to continue with their drawing and painting and am currently offering one workshop a month, and one Social Sketchbook event a month. Probably not the week-in-week-out classes they might have hoped for but feel this is an opportunity to spend some time reconnecting with my own personal artwork. With a lot of my time spent researching, preparing and delivering art classes I have often let my own work take second place - you may have noticed that I have only been snatching time to sketch recently, when did I last work on a painting? Having spent time over the past weeks reflecting, envisioning and implementing a plan for life without Henderson's (plus a few health dramas for other members of my family) I wanted to get into the studio and do some work. But... nothing... the intention is there yet I avoid going down to the studio... so, nothing. I have ideas for drawings and paintings but that vital spark seems absent. Somewhere along the line I feel I have lost a sense of who I am as an artist, or maybe my art is in a phase of transition? This all sounds very existential but it's as if I don't know what 'my work' looks like any more; that it has moved on in my head but not in the real world because the practical, tangible work is missing.<br />
<br />
Before I set out (publicly) an action plan let me assure you I haven't been wallowing in angst and hiding, and have organised two art events recently.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKBdV2EoaIWiMtqXFXsrzqniDKEKxVgjYWMeC7z8SDDFAyFj49tmztn7xczo5TFJ7rbbgrPViF2Bk5BG5F_nQCwknAWXdM7g7GekMJdTwnrZes8cetAlWl1RWLBuCcJ4mMwvPMOYgfriU/s1600/K.+Lynn+Embroiderer's%2BGuild%2B2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKBdV2EoaIWiMtqXFXsrzqniDKEKxVgjYWMeC7z8SDDFAyFj49tmztn7xczo5TFJ7rbbgrPViF2Bk5BG5F_nQCwknAWXdM7g7GekMJdTwnrZes8cetAlWl1RWLBuCcJ4mMwvPMOYgfriU/s1600/K.+Lynn+Embroiderer's%2BGuild%2B2.jpg" height="181" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Drawing evening for King's Lynn Embroiderer's Guild.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
I really enjoy connecting with people through art and was asked to put together an evening to help members of the King's Lynn Embroiderer's Guild with some drawing tasks to get a new project, based on ancient textiles, off the ground. The group were very enthusiastic and tackled three tasks with gusto.<br />
<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEin9eIgGJcLl_P7qrehlRR9-kRj9hW-qv8MYtlAV02_ZVCP2BTL2EIgR3XdqkuoFMnRXhDz1WE4CGKuYDae-mY6O2hDjIgEjaDEWYrGu61ymF8S36AGQKLUa39UfeOt4uRDBYRUg-V9s_w/s1600/K.Lynn+Embroiderer's%2BGuild%2Bdrawing%2Bevening.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEin9eIgGJcLl_P7qrehlRR9-kRj9hW-qv8MYtlAV02_ZVCP2BTL2EIgR3XdqkuoFMnRXhDz1WE4CGKuYDae-mY6O2hDjIgEjaDEWYrGu61ymF8S36AGQKLUa39UfeOt4uRDBYRUg-V9s_w/s1600/K.Lynn+Embroiderer's%2BGuild%2Bdrawing%2Bevening.jpg" height="213" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The group working hard on selecting cropped areas <br />
to transcribe in a drawn grid on A4 paper.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
Using black felt pens they drew motifs from fabric samples or reference materials on tracing paper (four sheets each) which then could be layered to create more complex designs in a variety of configurations. This was followed by drawing cropped sections into six squares by isolating areas with a viewfinder. Finally a coloured positive / negative image was obtained by covering cartridge paper with a variegated coloured layer of soft pastel, overlaid with oil pastels. When drawn on the reverse side the design got transferred as a positive line on white, leaving the original as a pale negative line on a coloured background. Congratulations to all the members for working so hard and producing some great work - I hope it will prove useful as a springboard for generating further ideas.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgwDVKcYF7nFrjRxYaZuqg4xUObOaKPVTS4A_jGv6WT73AALdPXsg8tY2nYD7zMPQrYf4q6OLHdSrwlEEFjp_aQF8ipBzsf_E2sK57_nr3V6Y8ZTLo9S8q5AHhG__k2aLkRGubt7BmZfEc/s1600/Stow+Bardolp+Social+Sketchbook+participants.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgwDVKcYF7nFrjRxYaZuqg4xUObOaKPVTS4A_jGv6WT73AALdPXsg8tY2nYD7zMPQrYf4q6OLHdSrwlEEFjp_aQF8ipBzsf_E2sK57_nr3V6Y8ZTLo9S8q5AHhG__k2aLkRGubt7BmZfEc/s1600/Stow+Bardolp+Social+Sketchbook+participants.jpg" height="126" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Social Sketchbook event at Stow Bardolph.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
The first Social Sketchbook event was held at the beginning of the month. I had arranged for us to meet at Church Farm, a small rare breeds centre in Stow Bardolph. The weather was relatively kind as previous days had been wild winds and bitterly cold. Although still chilly, the wind had dropped considerably and the sun even put in an appearance.<br />
<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgbiBWnGxT4dkL6Wos27dT72vzzr7bkHTXtu8AQ20o6OWPuxFw4q0FTSowl_0RSjaoCUdZ6-ZhZSiDxK5boLDTYKi3THifcr2mIhAErBFOhWwJ4r5x_Og-tuh9ck4eMhrFE4tEG3WF0q2I/s1600/Sketching+at+Stow+Bardolph+1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgbiBWnGxT4dkL6Wos27dT72vzzr7bkHTXtu8AQ20o6OWPuxFw4q0FTSowl_0RSjaoCUdZ6-ZhZSiDxK5boLDTYKi3THifcr2mIhAErBFOhWwJ4r5x_Og-tuh9ck4eMhrFE4tEG3WF0q2I/s1600/Sketching+at+Stow+Bardolph+1.jpg" height="333" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A curious pig returning the interest as one member sketches quickly<br />
to capture her expression.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjPiKDsOjhvPHmzJYtQuaK-TTT1dmFI_jnKgEHbqXTIB_FwQbZbWYa3_7ItrHfw6DIBFappH1GSirfTwilwubXCGu-JfLg8IZ1BeREKH0dgyKYa2_bOd_xyL1OTKPkLyzmmgVTqmVx_3o8/s1600/Sketchers+at+Stow+Bardolph,+April+2015.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjPiKDsOjhvPHmzJYtQuaK-TTT1dmFI_jnKgEHbqXTIB_FwQbZbWYa3_7ItrHfw6DIBFappH1GSirfTwilwubXCGu-JfLg8IZ1BeREKH0dgyKYa2_bOd_xyL1OTKPkLyzmmgVTqmVx_3o8/s1600/Sketchers+at+Stow+Bardolph,+April+2015.jpg" height="271" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Smiles all round - but ready for a warming drink and snack in the Tea Room, <br />
where one member is already happily ensconced.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
The group seemed to enjoy the opportunity to work outside of the studio environment, and quickly overcame any concerns about using sketchbooks in such a busy environment (it was the start of the Easter holidays and bustling with families enjoying the farm animals). There were nine of us and as the farm is quite compact we all moved about focusing on what caught our individual attention, yet frequently were in close proximity to one or two of the others. By early afternoon the nip in the air was taking it's toll and we were ready to retire to the Tea Room for a hot drink and light lunch while we chatted. The social aspect has always been welcomed by members of my classes and I hope more will join the Social Sketchbook events in the future.<br />
<br />
*The drawings below are from a few pages in my sketchbook and apologies for the blue tinge, the paper is white, honestly.<br />
<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiLEkJYTRzNDjtKR6JbI64BTY8VMDYPwFzIv4kwylxDqROqR84-HsEz-inG4qnrFxQidun3WTtWT3HtaNdFTLdrkSwog-99uOUmq00JpBWsA8-X1XioHyvmR5HnBvG-yqz1r9gAuy9qXbo/s1600/IMG_7570.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiLEkJYTRzNDjtKR6JbI64BTY8VMDYPwFzIv4kwylxDqROqR84-HsEz-inG4qnrFxQidun3WTtWT3HtaNdFTLdrkSwog-99uOUmq00JpBWsA8-X1XioHyvmR5HnBvG-yqz1r9gAuy9qXbo/s1600/IMG_7570.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Sheep study in Goldline 8x8" hardback sketchbook. </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZxWkmGyOcbJXtXDJSRnOT1bMxgrw-DIO2iNWNVKdpZetWMkTXhms5fXzGpSv6sYXeljah0vY0Xlx5tmu7r5j6NY8aIIJZSij5h8rwg98FQaJgXafMoFAEEQ4TSA3_e4fw4dkbO8knEK0/s1600/IMG_7575.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZxWkmGyOcbJXtXDJSRnOT1bMxgrw-DIO2iNWNVKdpZetWMkTXhms5fXzGpSv6sYXeljah0vY0Xlx5tmu7r5j6NY8aIIJZSij5h8rwg98FQaJgXafMoFAEEQ4TSA3_e4fw4dkbO8knEK0/s1600/IMG_7575.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Sheep and lamb sketches.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0soDibm6EDVHzA0Rec049dcRRI0a80N0Comngqs4AbMxdmBXndlQEBqI0UNbjiDHXLuPuE5O0nylFQVExh0hb8ABaDOJ884EUi4HKCDifthVesz8s9NgMTwUJgJTZcPKydv5QC-NPfec/s1600/IMG_7573.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0soDibm6EDVHzA0Rec049dcRRI0a80N0Comngqs4AbMxdmBXndlQEBqI0UNbjiDHXLuPuE5O0nylFQVExh0hb8ABaDOJ884EUi4HKCDifthVesz8s9NgMTwUJgJTZcPKydv5QC-NPfec/s1600/IMG_7573.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Quick Whitepark cow head study.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
So, back to thoughts of the future... what do I plan to do about this (temporary) artist block?<br />
<br />
1. Introduce structured hours in the studio, or on location. Just show up whether I feel like it or not.<br />
2. Work from life as much as possible - whatever takes my fancy initially - I feel sure that if enough work is generated that eventually subject matter or a theme will emerge. It may still be animals and the natural world, or it may be something different, I will try to be open to whatever transpires.<br />
3. Be productive, encourage quantity so that I may move beyond the more obvious.<br />
4. To have a period of experimentation, play and discovery and to withhold judgement and criticism to begin with - what will be, will be.<br />
5. Continue to encourage the social aspect. Spend time outside of the studio with other artists, either at art events or to draw and paint in company.<br />
6. To keep my teaching schedule manageable so that continuity of my personal work remains strong.<br />
7. Outside of 'work hours' continue to read art books / magazines / watch art DVD's or You Tube and as ideas, media, subjects or treatments capture my interest to have a go and see what happens.<br />
8. If I feel really stuck to just play around with colour and create abstract backgrounds to use as a base for drawing / painting / writing over.<br />
9. To keep positive as this situation has happened before, is likely to happen again in the future and is part of the creative cycle - it happens to most of us at some point! <br />
10. To post more often to this blog, in the hope that whatever I produce in the next few months - whether good, bad or ugly, will give you some insight into this frustrating lull in motivation, but that it can be overcome.<br />
<br />
Has something similar happened to you? How did you cope, and what strategies were useful in getting your art back on track?<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />Tod Evanshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15888236635332828208noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1589919365805446787.post-82020181269748639332015-03-27T18:46:00.001-07:002015-03-27T18:46:48.099-07:00Circomedia & Drawing Circus Performers<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhCrXRSM-A18x2oUUCdmVO5G4KgoUJ1EZDCySl1Zudgv5V5bIR_UB2mQN1ZQhpVEeZqO8o9zn7g-P464Hprm71VYRdh_ZqJeMCAZUzzl_1qsidKYBl_2PtqwLOqQExKwOGcjmxieVyWoJo/s1600/Trying+to+capture+movement+(2).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhCrXRSM-A18x2oUUCdmVO5G4KgoUJ1EZDCySl1Zudgv5V5bIR_UB2mQN1ZQhpVEeZqO8o9zn7g-P464Hprm71VYRdh_ZqJeMCAZUzzl_1qsidKYBl_2PtqwLOqQExKwOGcjmxieVyWoJo/s1600/Trying+to+capture+movement+(2).JPG" height="300" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Trying to capture movement.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
This time last week I was in Bristol, staying with my daughter, and it was the eve before an amazing drawing workshop lead by Sara Easby from the Bristol Drawing School. The drawing day was held at Circomedia - the centre for contemporary circus and physical theatre - in St. Paul's Church, Portland Square. The church was saved from dilapidation and converted in 2004 and now houses the UK's largest indoor trapeze rig and aerial facilities. Visit www.circomedia.com for more information.<br />
<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjivW9eUCti1x_7mKOZ_l4Sd_lIhyphenhyphen42ymcUb3Jm3D5Vn8mq9R4vKbZLwGqEV8smVvVtKmtVhE7VEss_hIf49fhTuVK02naZqZ1Q91MdxzhyytSNipHx-TfKpj1tej9Y_ryJM3kn39HyYGc/s1600/IMG_7377.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjivW9eUCti1x_7mKOZ_l4Sd_lIhyphenhyphen42ymcUb3Jm3D5Vn8mq9R4vKbZLwGqEV8smVvVtKmtVhE7VEss_hIf49fhTuVK02naZqZ1Q91MdxzhyytSNipHx-TfKpj1tej9Y_ryJM3kn39HyYGc/s1600/IMG_7377.JPG" height="300" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Circomedia, St. Paul's Church, Portland Square, Bristol.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
The day dawned bright but chilly and we arrived at the venue in good time. We had come with sketchbooks (size not specified so I kitted us out with A3 as capturing moving figures suggested to me bigger gestural strokes), pencils, charcoal, Neocolour crayons and water brush pens in case we had time to brush pigment out into a wash.<br />
<br />
Sara started by introducing simple ways to tackle figures in constant movement - from a single sweeping line of action to 'pin men' and suggested that we keep in mind where the weight was distributed. Basically we would be trying to capture first impressions, no detail, and just explore how to best describe the evolving configurations of the circus performers (our models) as they practised their skills!<br />
<br />
To give you an idea of what we were up against I offer this brief video clip taken on my phone:<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<iframe width="320" height="266" class="YOUTUBE-iframe-video" data-thumbnail-src="https://i.ytimg.com/vi/XdjtZjJtycY/0.jpg" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/XdjtZjJtycY?feature=player_embedded" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen></iframe></div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
A small selection of my A3 sketchbook pages...<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhI9mLpkHbKggcXVvwACSHDvNhjx2mKpg-tH9W50LjggNWrB3zEEQ5un8AFQ-_J8EHLFAApSdC7K2KP9d40OqBySUcyi7xLoOfe5Y0ol_Xtx6Sy-Ha1vrmp62DY8Gkx3iQV3lNst7kRt9U/s1600/IMG_7474.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhI9mLpkHbKggcXVvwACSHDvNhjx2mKpg-tH9W50LjggNWrB3zEEQ5un8AFQ-_J8EHLFAApSdC7K2KP9d40OqBySUcyi7xLoOfe5Y0ol_Xtx6Sy-Ha1vrmp62DY8Gkx3iQV3lNst7kRt9U/s1600/IMG_7474.JPG" height="400" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Acrobatics, in pencil, A3 sketchbook.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwm4xCyMwv3rg0cuEQDeimc2BWFmmJK8h_UnQIlSiLMRR58lHF4UGbW1ECbQcN6Nh2isMS84hilOe_8VcoB-rQaipy3lYWA6pSCLkSzoJNnciim3bgNNJUgvKzxga0hA9TScpAo7D3TVs/s1600/IMG_7476.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwm4xCyMwv3rg0cuEQDeimc2BWFmmJK8h_UnQIlSiLMRR58lHF4UGbW1ECbQcN6Nh2isMS84hilOe_8VcoB-rQaipy3lYWA6pSCLkSzoJNnciim3bgNNJUgvKzxga0hA9TScpAo7D3TVs/s1600/IMG_7476.JPG" height="400" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Acrobatics, pencil, A3 sketchbook.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTtXUlLoOTQ4fKzfnO7ZZeXwYgBIGo081ZlWO-J_fk3I9pjN98lS6fWpRfCk4Aaf9rqmQnt4mnEdlxVBuuYoU2LieXVBLypPntW_uB8-DJ8oXVZSqm4MgRYjYqfo6W4gsrsV_Lm1oU7os/s1600/IMG_7487.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTtXUlLoOTQ4fKzfnO7ZZeXwYgBIGo081ZlWO-J_fk3I9pjN98lS6fWpRfCk4Aaf9rqmQnt4mnEdlxVBuuYoU2LieXVBLypPntW_uB8-DJ8oXVZSqm4MgRYjYqfo6W4gsrsV_Lm1oU7os/s1600/IMG_7487.JPG" height="400" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Acrobatics, pencil to capture first movements <br />and superimposed with charcoal<br />as sequence of positions changed.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<br />
Things got a bit more scribbly and manic as I tried to get the essence of our 'models' doing some juggling with first the diablo then balls/skittles. Can you make head or tail of these?<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1t5aFf9qjddj04DpRO4t_NDPseIQMtCiG0Sq_0n9VxVKyOO9c-goA5-GbSAMl_SuuHiDmHfO2lBWRwJal1l7ab5SxfsYVnRoZANp7H_FzlPeyssgA2-DyzYTSiygUTsBZWs20qUtA6tI/s1600/IMG_7490.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1t5aFf9qjddj04DpRO4t_NDPseIQMtCiG0Sq_0n9VxVKyOO9c-goA5-GbSAMl_SuuHiDmHfO2lBWRwJal1l7ab5SxfsYVnRoZANp7H_FzlPeyssgA2-DyzYTSiygUTsBZWs20qUtA6tI/s1600/IMG_7490.JPG" height="400" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Juggling, pencil, A3 sketchbook.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8JNgjzokDpOf9WK3EbL8E245SqEq6js1Oavs7EkPryTT3ELHvJwtbOPpuDV2GV3xsak5peZVfBwDktihuGVaHKvJckqCECMGPKmaFh4lKR1auk5K_4DV6AmKLeZllslq5jAF1GMt6QMQ/s1600/IMG_7491.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8JNgjzokDpOf9WK3EbL8E245SqEq6js1Oavs7EkPryTT3ELHvJwtbOPpuDV2GV3xsak5peZVfBwDktihuGVaHKvJckqCECMGPKmaFh4lKR1auk5K_4DV6AmKLeZllslq5jAF1GMt6QMQ/s1600/IMG_7491.JPG" height="400" width="292" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Juggling, pencil, A3 sketchbook.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfXi0YKeT7jFD1YS8oRzPCD7lQFjVlHJsR_KMc63Q5wO7LV3GMWwW0qgVVHcDLnTzwNZWfI8xG_N4EdQCX1wmqCkuhmmnWhSh5kG5EUEpaogE_sTjH9Sc-gEhSgQ8vb0caiY7p6bfP0FY/s1600/IMG_7492.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfXi0YKeT7jFD1YS8oRzPCD7lQFjVlHJsR_KMc63Q5wO7LV3GMWwW0qgVVHcDLnTzwNZWfI8xG_N4EdQCX1wmqCkuhmmnWhSh5kG5EUEpaogE_sTjH9Sc-gEhSgQ8vb0caiY7p6bfP0FY/s1600/IMG_7492.JPG" height="400" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Juggling, pencil/charcoal pencil, A3 sketchbook.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<br />
All of this was before lunch! Three quarters of an hour later, back into the fray, with a variety of circus skills on offer. Our next models warmed up...<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjPLwjNQWruM0n9bp0inokhQsQqNVt0jYH9lBsfpysoLVBsShsTNiRLo797XMPWIOk7VDkSg9tazE-NqCKARl4etI7HyxI6pPeoNfkQugPQcA8j6D73LjryLBgs9JujpPZcbJUcYUxLL_I/s1600/IMG_7505.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjPLwjNQWruM0n9bp0inokhQsQqNVt0jYH9lBsfpysoLVBsShsTNiRLo797XMPWIOk7VDkSg9tazE-NqCKARl4etI7HyxI6pPeoNfkQugPQcA8j6D73LjryLBgs9JujpPZcbJUcYUxLL_I/s1600/IMG_7505.JPG" height="400" width="291" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Circus performer warming up on the floor...</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjyQiA3WwHwqKI0iJBC_5Hxk5vwNQVlBBiYZEoSwNavG2iHJnY273X70Hy0fOYzvWDiVTMly5iLtirP51kw6AgLAAfcNRRQCCu4TlGlDxGea1xsviigPXp6RM6tcYLbwVhrErVkI59M-vc/s1600/IMG_7510.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjyQiA3WwHwqKI0iJBC_5Hxk5vwNQVlBBiYZEoSwNavG2iHJnY273X70Hy0fOYzvWDiVTMly5iLtirP51kw6AgLAAfcNRRQCCu4TlGlDxGea1xsviigPXp6RM6tcYLbwVhrErVkI59M-vc/s1600/IMG_7510.JPG" height="400" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Warming up...</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<br />
... before they both took to the air on the trapeze!<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDXy0JbxIkzTNvaxLCT-8eeSklnwCroqrozEDMiH1MjuYDN4fVIJlpO_41-FPshmmtZvaoAeFcCKjSVmq-3yeTxONAPwdMW6VuRU79ugjXSd7reSJM98Gl8y464yvVX8_YYSgpe-faZUU/s1600/IMG_7512.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDXy0JbxIkzTNvaxLCT-8eeSklnwCroqrozEDMiH1MjuYDN4fVIJlpO_41-FPshmmtZvaoAeFcCKjSVmq-3yeTxONAPwdMW6VuRU79ugjXSd7reSJM98Gl8y464yvVX8_YYSgpe-faZUU/s1600/IMG_7512.JPG" height="400" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Two performers on the trapeze.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhOyvsKS3Gw0p9QD_hQukUdgQcEnKsIQyxIPDUxdlgSc36BXNGWJ-3w8S96vw1-O07tE9luVaSvfrIPjLoVseFL3QEVLl2Mj9XoDaF4gKvn0ROjSkMa5AQXKYPU7Cr1onn49IekyrV_2CY/s1600/IMG_7524.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhOyvsKS3Gw0p9QD_hQukUdgQcEnKsIQyxIPDUxdlgSc36BXNGWJ-3w8S96vw1-O07tE9luVaSvfrIPjLoVseFL3QEVLl2Mj9XoDaF4gKvn0ROjSkMa5AQXKYPU7Cr1onn49IekyrV_2CY/s1600/IMG_7524.JPG" height="400" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Two performers on the trapeze, Neocolour crayon.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiyrrFtxxD1WmIhDekOwJAoLG_PUYphiSnHV8LVh2uJT8hOZKGhgzkSXbiqlNqeD-1AZBp88Luo0XiIpgVNnXI19P6bNDdFHX7zqbibWL7-h_td1_wMfgN7wil2rhE3FMT-7MVGftVo-Bw/s1600/IMG_7527.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiyrrFtxxD1WmIhDekOwJAoLG_PUYphiSnHV8LVh2uJT8hOZKGhgzkSXbiqlNqeD-1AZBp88Luo0XiIpgVNnXI19P6bNDdFHX7zqbibWL7-h_td1_wMfgN7wil2rhE3FMT-7MVGftVo-Bw/s1600/IMG_7527.JPG" height="400" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Two performers on the trapeze.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<br />
After the trapeze came Poppy creating beautiful shapes with the Hoop...<br />
<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhL4aThmHaZyyO2HRPBMmGrzMWc_5bazYaFFV6e4196IfcxZll-xvANnzH-aMWTTpD7jf1UuQUnUJa0RBEsALR1LbfuCc353dDYZOxvQdKPiTB7gfmUhho6UQkGs4J8-N1V8FT_J1ntXdA/s1600/IMG_7538.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhL4aThmHaZyyO2HRPBMmGrzMWc_5bazYaFFV6e4196IfcxZll-xvANnzH-aMWTTpD7jf1UuQUnUJa0RBEsALR1LbfuCc353dDYZOxvQdKPiTB7gfmUhho6UQkGs4J8-N1V8FT_J1ntXdA/s1600/IMG_7538.JPG" height="400" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Performing with the aerial Hoop <br />(apologies for the blue tinge - the paper is white).</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<br />
... and Johnno working with the long drape of red fabric...<br />
<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgRQkkb1dUHrVXJGVBl-HSRdvosN7BgT4mRGaWY5EXRlt42gMZJQHlYEbQNDTUvNE7n6xPHxn8q0puWolZJQEg4LilTOFTstClvnSTPkLKJVXhVhzqVJ5vElW_H_L_9RVa0drpVfQ_h4Ws/s1600/IMG_7540.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgRQkkb1dUHrVXJGVBl-HSRdvosN7BgT4mRGaWY5EXRlt42gMZJQHlYEbQNDTUvNE7n6xPHxn8q0puWolZJQEg4LilTOFTstClvnSTPkLKJVXhVhzqVJ5vElW_H_L_9RVa0drpVfQ_h4Ws/s1600/IMG_7540.JPG" height="400" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Aerial performer with suspended fabric.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdw8FQ7ztBWrNO23_f-uX0EbdEQPYMv34Ds9H2b_hz_qOA6qk-KaM6QpgE_3ybmy6ENRy5tyjdI-lFFyyJZadvZUBWzAAh2aJ6KZfXypkgdEpuBT2MaFQ82FhaqShGTcifnjrislSftSY/s1600/IMG_7542.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdw8FQ7ztBWrNO23_f-uX0EbdEQPYMv34Ds9H2b_hz_qOA6qk-KaM6QpgE_3ybmy6ENRy5tyjdI-lFFyyJZadvZUBWzAAh2aJ6KZfXypkgdEpuBT2MaFQ82FhaqShGTcifnjrislSftSY/s1600/IMG_7542.JPG" height="400" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Amazing shapes of aerial performer with suspended fabric,<br />Neocolour crayon, A3 sketchbook.<br />(Apologies for blue tinge).</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<br />
By this time everyone was beginning to flag from the intensity of the looking and rapid mark making trying to get the gist of 'poses'. I have done a fair bit of 'blind contour drawing' in the past whereby the drawing is created whilst the eyes are focused solely on the subject matter and not on the page at all - a strategy that proved very useful at times. Then just when we thought we had seen it all the final performer took to the sky - well, the curved swing suspended high up near the ceiling. What a finale!<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<iframe width="320" height="266" class="YOUTUBE-iframe-video" data-thumbnail-src="https://i.ytimg.com/vi/ZrFv8_N3fBg/0.jpg" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/ZrFv8_N3fBg?feature=player_embedded" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen></iframe></div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
By this time many people on the workshop had called it a day with the drawing, either from tiredness or shear awe at the difficult task of capturing anything of this last performance. But I was determined to give it a try...<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjU3DiEPDBI2snYS_Aet3yR2YjJxX3DEOgdtJK1G-KATtjUvn3XsNsUnE_HPigZl4iLsM-jO4rPiKvOsNUhNFFRlan_RHbCV7DOsIFuONB1PnpZHSeryYX3KM-XvBdKSmniwVCLrdsGDfk/s1600/IMG_7551.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjU3DiEPDBI2snYS_Aet3yR2YjJxX3DEOgdtJK1G-KATtjUvn3XsNsUnE_HPigZl4iLsM-jO4rPiKvOsNUhNFFRlan_RHbCV7DOsIFuONB1PnpZHSeryYX3KM-XvBdKSmniwVCLrdsGDfk/s1600/IMG_7551.JPG" height="400" width="288" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Holly on the curved swing, Neocolour crayon, A3 sketchbook.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
The whole day was fantastic. I had treated not only myself, but my daughter (who also likes to draw when she gets the time) as a birthday gift to her, to spend such an extended period of time grappling with this near impossible task of capturing something meaningful of these incredibly hard-working, skilled specialists of the floor and air. Thank you Sara, and the talented circus performers of Circomedia for such an incredible experience.<br />
<br />
If you are interested in finding out more about the courses run by Bristol Drawing School visit www.drawingschool.org.uk.<br />
<br />
I will leave you with another short clip of Holly on the curved swing.<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<iframe width="320" height="266" class="YOUTUBE-iframe-video" data-thumbnail-src="https://i.ytimg.com/vi/emEeqpFd55Q/0.jpg" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/emEeqpFd55Q?feature=player_embedded" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen></iframe></div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />Tod Evanshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15888236635332828208noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1589919365805446787.post-30467286283660243782015-03-17T18:09:00.000-07:002015-03-17T18:09:04.773-07:00Practice, practice, practice...<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg2s1x22u2ogSTctUCivkGzNLmtlODiL23plwh5AoTh6RIq86FX8Cp6ViNvgA6akGDDRDtsvhUJWFIWNNXXURu5SglKunpxXEsPDw_VaP9nBO0kdqHA-mm1gbaNkqyDToz8dq9K2JJ43Us/s1600/IMG_7310.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg2s1x22u2ogSTctUCivkGzNLmtlODiL23plwh5AoTh6RIq86FX8Cp6ViNvgA6akGDDRDtsvhUJWFIWNNXXURu5SglKunpxXEsPDw_VaP9nBO0kdqHA-mm1gbaNkqyDToz8dq9K2JJ43Us/s1600/IMG_7310.JPG" height="300" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Quick A5 sketchbook portrait studies<br />
(charcoal pencil on left, charcoal stick on right). </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
In my Mixed Media classes this term I have been really encouraging the use of sketchbooks. As the pages have been filling up I can see how my enthusiasm is catching on, and many class members have been using theirs between sessions. It is such a simple way of integrating creativity into everyday life and artists at all stages of development reap the benefits of regular practice!<br />
<br />
The photo above was another quick session at trying to capture a likeness in a portrait by looking at the big shapes first. They are both in charcoal, one in charcoal pencil and the other with a willow charcoal stick. Side by side it is easy to see the denser velvety marks deposited by the stick.<br />
<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjsGi98xqk9s2VU7_J0n0MogF_V_NRoX9nW2lqNZNCwfTe0i_1gHX3RjGQbR9RQwpkDxLvzpIbU8X2Jp2xRIUTisBqD4ut382sjXl5CtPHc1VP6ZN3lmZsDxj9zQvHs8Dy3z-mCHiB1wTI/s1600/IMG_7312.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjsGi98xqk9s2VU7_J0n0MogF_V_NRoX9nW2lqNZNCwfTe0i_1gHX3RjGQbR9RQwpkDxLvzpIbU8X2Jp2xRIUTisBqD4ut382sjXl5CtPHc1VP6ZN3lmZsDxj9zQvHs8Dy3z-mCHiB1wTI/s1600/IMG_7312.JPG" height="400" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Portrait study of my son, 15 minutes.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
And another 15 minute study, my son this time as he played on a computer game (wearing headphones). These were in preparation for the class session where members were asked to work in their sketchbooks and do rapid charcoal studies of each other for the first hour. After break they could work on a longer study, in the medium of choice, either from life from their own reference photo. They all did a fantastic job and were pleasantly surprised at how much information could be captured in short bursts of 10 - 15 minutes!<br />
<br />
It is still looking like Henderson Art and Framing will be closing it's doors permanently... and I have been firming up plans for the future. The response from the people I currently teach there has been positive and I really hope they will continue on their personal art journeys, with me would be lovely, but in any way, shape, or form. I will be offering various art events and workshops at different locations, so some exciting new ventures for me too! The first is a<i> Social Sketchbook</i> session at a small rare breeds farm next month and in May another outdoor session in the local park. Hopefully the weather will have warmed up a bit by then. Two weeks ago I had a great meeting with the store manager and the catering manager of the Dobbies Garden Centre in King's Lynn to discuss the possibility of holding a workshop there for my class members. I was delighted with the enthusiastic response I received, and in May I will be running a one-day workshop titled <i>Focus on Flowers. </i><br />
<i><br /></i>
<i><br /></i>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggAWDW0WltT-Q_pine7kvPTTbHoZuYF-l6iIBxNCLFuT1m1pyMncHb3hX7Ch4eiahR56qSWKwViOawnM5p7xbgfixUOwjnuN2S9MyTRd9i1MisYlnt_L7kUkHphkdCgwjMpPPBD2UTSwU/s1600/Pastel+Class...as+if+On+Location,+March+2015.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggAWDW0WltT-Q_pine7kvPTTbHoZuYF-l6iIBxNCLFuT1m1pyMncHb3hX7Ch4eiahR56qSWKwViOawnM5p7xbgfixUOwjnuN2S9MyTRd9i1MisYlnt_L7kUkHphkdCgwjMpPPBD2UTSwU/s1600/Pastel+Class...as+if+On+Location,+March+2015.jpg" height="225" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Pastel Class... working 'as if on location'.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<i> </i><br />
In preparation for life beyond the art classes at Henderson this term I included a session for all my hard working students based on the premise of <i>'as if on location'. </i>I placed some A3 photocopied images around the studio featuring a variety of subjects - a dog on the beach, a bluebell wood, a boat, an old archway, a cat on top of the stairs, a sunflower, some bowls players, a busy scene with chickens and some bright pink flowers clinging to a rock face. I had moved the tables around to enable better views but suggested working with sketchbooks/drawing boards on laps, or even try standing up, to simulate the more usual conditions of working on location.<br />
<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjIeemrJ-kjViW_6GDZfJtv7t71tUNewqJtTUiswmZXitG_RNrrTvN9-BcC_InI_ktH9V6VfM1m6h0Reb2f7oCzoi2uH-btgJ9YW7VxoHOndvNthmshM2W5NUn5EFKpXnJgyz1T3fN-Mvo/s1600/Mixed+Media+Class...as+if+On+Location.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjIeemrJ-kjViW_6GDZfJtv7t71tUNewqJtTUiswmZXitG_RNrrTvN9-BcC_InI_ktH9V6VfM1m6h0Reb2f7oCzoi2uH-btgJ9YW7VxoHOndvNthmshM2W5NUn5EFKpXnJgyz1T3fN-Mvo/s1600/Mixed+Media+Class...as+if+On+Location.jpg" height="180" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Mixed Media Class... working 'as if on location'.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
There was a great atmosphere in all the sessions and some inspiring work produced. Most people managed two or more pieces of work, some were quick studies but also some resolved artworks. Congratulations to everyone concerned, and my thanks for rising to the challenge!<br />
<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUFIP2tB5Cfgddcnyydszsc80fW5QdLfSQsdJr5fMdDyajcPt5950xYbChQ-wf2yjNqKz_KjaxxNS-OnR9VMjTrH_Kop9IxSchajsS6wM49f_n5sniDqej-1pEUMgEaDNqZujlK97aqzY/s1600/Quick+sketchbook+studies+of+chickens...class+member,+as+if+On+Location.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUFIP2tB5Cfgddcnyydszsc80fW5QdLfSQsdJr5fMdDyajcPt5950xYbChQ-wf2yjNqKz_KjaxxNS-OnR9VMjTrH_Kop9IxSchajsS6wM49f_n5sniDqej-1pEUMgEaDNqZujlK97aqzY/s1600/Quick+sketchbook+studies+of+chickens...class+member,+as+if+On+Location.jpg" height="286" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Entering the spirit of working 'as if on location'... <br />
an enthusiastic class member standing and creating quick sketches <br />
of chickens in her sketchbook!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
If you have never tried working on location before why not have a go at this exercise and get in some practice? Instead of having your reference image right beside your working surface pin it up somewhere and pretend you are out of the comforts of your usual art space. Use easily portable art materials and try working quickly to capture the essence of your subject.<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />Tod Evanshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15888236635332828208noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1589919365805446787.post-56653501712575509222015-02-27T17:06:00.001-08:002015-02-27T17:06:23.325-08:00A State of Flux<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhCbafU6xAHykSkrzRFyYWfKjWRuxGMqjfUtCz4kt1q7v0ZqFZV4QPJRZzwL6ryAvBIUnXqgLi2KSSNSmcKK_xYPBdh4420_BF56uW0twr_mD3CFsxbPy8w52KpX7KnIJFPvVmY3eW9G-E/s1600/IMG_7225.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhCbafU6xAHykSkrzRFyYWfKjWRuxGMqjfUtCz4kt1q7v0ZqFZV4QPJRZzwL6ryAvBIUnXqgLi2KSSNSmcKK_xYPBdh4420_BF56uW0twr_mD3CFsxbPy8w52KpX7KnIJFPvVmY3eW9G-E/s1600/IMG_7225.JPG" height="300" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"> A5 Sketchbook double spread - experimenting with mixed media. </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
I cannot believe that I have not yet posted in 2015, and it is already the end of February! Where has the time gone? It's certainly not because things have been quiet. Maybe it is due to a state of flux that has descended since receiving the news that Henderson Art and Framing is for sale and may actually close completely after Easter. Although I am self-employed I work freelance at Hendersons running adult art classes. It has been a roller coaster couple of months for the owners, Bill and Sue, with several interested parties looking to continue the business (except for the framing which Bill plans to do from home) but unfortunately none of these have yet proved viable. The members of all the classes that are held there are concerned about where, and how, they can continue with their studies. As tutors we have also found the uncertainty tricky. I have been doing lots of visualisation and trying to get a sense of how my art career might develop and how to make new opportunities for myself and my clients.<br />
<br />
The photo above is of a double page spread in an A5 sketchbook. It was an experiment with mixed media (gesso, acrylic, graphite pencil and powder, pen) to work out some suitable techniques to encourage the class this week in their exploration of weathered concrete. In some ways it also sums up how I've been feeling, especially the last few weeks, as time is running out. The linear marks could represent the chop and change in mood, up one moment with the thrill of new opportunities and down the next, can I sustain a full time art career or will I need to get a regular job again? Another brainstorming session, and I'm up again... Exhausting stuff. There's the effect of chunks falling off and then the crack, symbolizing the final break; the shop closing. But look closer, at the speckles and spatter - like the threads and seeds of ideas. Some old ones, sown many years ago, now ready to grow into fruition. Some fresh and new, holding such promise. Actually all my thinking, researching and daydreaming have now started to form into positive action. I am gradually putting together a programme of events for my clients that I hope will enable many to continue their art journey. I have been visiting different places, and contacting people, to try and arrange a variety of workshops in different locations. Will keep you posted.<br />
<br />
Talking of different locations...<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLefNVrDfbkzMUOaqdVcL8E03M6e6mVEss7-1ZhwA1E8NRoytLjziYMGrGYSaZ9XvrUsY7W-NjOKr7SU1wVaW-60wXFTmNldV7t7kayO65xTBG1I8f-FoHFODhoxU6Em5KXGrSlkOQYrQ/s1600/IMG_7117.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLefNVrDfbkzMUOaqdVcL8E03M6e6mVEss7-1ZhwA1E8NRoytLjziYMGrGYSaZ9XvrUsY7W-NjOKr7SU1wVaW-60wXFTmNldV7t7kayO65xTBG1I8f-FoHFODhoxU6Em5KXGrSlkOQYrQ/s1600/IMG_7117.JPG" height="300" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Sketching on Roydon Common.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
This is Roydon Common. And this is the first time I have ever been there! We moved to King's Lynn 17 years or so ago and this amazing place is right on the doorstep, how did it get overlooked? Acres and acres of sandy, heather filled landscape with several interesting features - evidence of an old Victorian tramway for example... Also, there are wild ponies grazing and they look the picture of health in their thick winter coats.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0SBie8O0_nU5vDiT1-8KrpQgQplMSU2qr9WuQeWDLRr4Sf3BWksfoG6Ei2QRBDQVZj9iNxNJzP2TsHT2Up5xe3UMXQi26ugi0IR2Zt6XWXt6anWq8Jn2uMungqM9okRyj1YWAdvvhd0w/s1600/IMG_7145.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0SBie8O0_nU5vDiT1-8KrpQgQplMSU2qr9WuQeWDLRr4Sf3BWksfoG6Ei2QRBDQVZj9iNxNJzP2TsHT2Up5xe3UMXQi26ugi0IR2Zt6XWXt6anWq8Jn2uMungqM9okRyj1YWAdvvhd0w/s1600/IMG_7145.JPG" height="300" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Evidence of an old Victorian tramway.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgsgV8LOh3KaBNPRn6jNBkHjA5a_5JQuc5RcIMbnNW6ymQ_dfyUmFnk5a_sg1fKODtpJFVVuSwjz_JjXhmQ9S_gEJvYkyQa22YE5CPBHZJDOO6OVEwSvqBHFEgyKGeADyeQixB9cBbAVqU/s1600/IMG_7176.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgsgV8LOh3KaBNPRn6jNBkHjA5a_5JQuc5RcIMbnNW6ymQ_dfyUmFnk5a_sg1fKODtpJFVVuSwjz_JjXhmQ9S_gEJvYkyQa22YE5CPBHZJDOO6OVEwSvqBHFEgyKGeADyeQixB9cBbAVqU/s1600/IMG_7176.JPG" height="300" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Wild pony on Roydon Common, a picture of health.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
This weekend I plan to get a bit more practice with quick portrait studies in charcoal as this is the focus of classes next week. The study below was done several night's ago as my husband dozed in his armchair, and yes, he still had his headphones on. It only took about 15 minutes and looks more like him than anything I've done before, even caught the little frown between the eyebrows. <br />
<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimho2NTFE-TqlOs5kq3l49-9FBTXp0WoaFwPEDMDooxBYaSuvcp0pQJAvf84iopOY-zeyORiEYawh_Fr5J1IhgIa5L_WI0iGSU7_UBGHVt4UAZyYQV0dS1H_3dP4CkZx5F7t2uuUBwYbw/s1600/IMG_7229.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimho2NTFE-TqlOs5kq3l49-9FBTXp0WoaFwPEDMDooxBYaSuvcp0pQJAvf84iopOY-zeyORiEYawh_Fr5J1IhgIa5L_WI0iGSU7_UBGHVt4UAZyYQV0dS1H_3dP4CkZx5F7t2uuUBwYbw/s1600/IMG_7229.JPG" height="400" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Paul dozing, still wearing headphones. <br />Quick portrait study, A4 sketchbook, in charcoal pencil. </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
I suppose my message from this post is that when unexpected events happen, life goes on, and it is up to you how you move on and shape the future. It was being made redundant in 2003 that catapulted me into embracing the life of an artist in the first place. <br />
<br />
What do you want to do with the rest of your life? Are there any steps, big or small, that you can make in the direction of this dream? <br />
<br />
Tod Evanshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15888236635332828208noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1589919365805446787.post-59193308134686732982014-12-29T17:55:00.000-08:002014-12-29T18:06:50.399-08:00Creative Christmas - Sketching House Rabbits...<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJn-VliOPw8iZk_mH-2Rs57pl65T9IRPAC1zk7hwJ3EBLQg7WX31UyOKRcdFPDzkT60R6x1ydp5gZY0Lvcix-qer0qy-nMFNU95B8g1gD9DcMenLGNXPekweEyKHUAenm6hkbaceTSBXY/s1600/IMG_6856.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJn-VliOPw8iZk_mH-2Rs57pl65T9IRPAC1zk7hwJ3EBLQg7WX31UyOKRcdFPDzkT60R6x1ydp5gZY0Lvcix-qer0qy-nMFNU95B8g1gD9DcMenLGNXPekweEyKHUAenm6hkbaceTSBXY/s1600/IMG_6856.JPG" height="400" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Sketching Odie using sepia Artline calligraphy pen 3.0 <br />
in a Goldline 8" x 8" harback sketchbook.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
Apologies for my blog being quiet for so long... and I wish any readers a belated Merry Christmas! It seems to me that artists fall into one of two camps at this time of year. They are either rushed off their feet and spend every moment racing to fulfil commission commitments and seasonal greeting card orders, or, go very quiet and seem to fall off the creative planet as Christmas preparations (meal planning and family logistics) take over. This year I have definitely been in the latter mode... with a new kitchen thrown into the mix - which is almost finished. I must add that I have had a lovely Christmas and once the final shopping trip was done, and presents all wrapped, it has been great to spend time with family.<br />
<br />
However, with my daughter visiting for the festive period I have finally managed to get my artist mojo back as she arrived with, not only her (new) husband, but her two house rabbits as well!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_9YdL6xE3RlVAlEo_XknVbtXifPOKDsQu0YcVCxdhI3KV8RZY4myWWkq_MIVurpGCQlOV_KizXu5oucNBk0hKja_WQgOxyx1TIB0WHdqCuaDWgBNnyYsu5s8nunYolDI9mGzyLDFmdZ8/s1600/IMG_6861.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_9YdL6xE3RlVAlEo_XknVbtXifPOKDsQu0YcVCxdhI3KV8RZY4myWWkq_MIVurpGCQlOV_KizXu5oucNBk0hKja_WQgOxyx1TIB0WHdqCuaDWgBNnyYsu5s8nunYolDI9mGzyLDFmdZ8/s1600/IMG_6861.JPG" height="400" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The two house rabbits - Odie on the left and Thor on the right.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
I had two sketching sessions when Charley and I let the rabbits have the freedom of the conservatory to stretch their legs and for me to practise drawing live animals as they moved around (often at speed).<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2yyo1Zu5I8L6rofWsPw8dH6ENUBUXWguGHN9-HMyWTl9m1nU7GLaObjp5jiJULYbPjuT5yPhLXMTaLIC6ynvWZlDIADKdm6sIKxY2k9-cTRBH0eGwpYVHJ24K51z0a0AvfaS_IArZ_nw/s1600/IMG_6862.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2yyo1Zu5I8L6rofWsPw8dH6ENUBUXWguGHN9-HMyWTl9m1nU7GLaObjp5jiJULYbPjuT5yPhLXMTaLIC6ynvWZlDIADKdm6sIKxY2k9-cTRBH0eGwpYVHJ24K51z0a0AvfaS_IArZ_nw/s1600/IMG_6862.JPG" height="300" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Thor investigating the sketchbook...</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEijBt1ygAAbrePELtIUZDZK1mFvxHkkGMehUgrhzQyv-zssA_Q1VF8sFNfZDYv7G_9gf_KljOMzRcbqAtCrIGY64RPWR9Fc6vh5h89LMlphIzlVpaZQq0kW_1d_75BZe9yfrioVWdhpZOw/s1600/IMG_6863.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEijBt1ygAAbrePELtIUZDZK1mFvxHkkGMehUgrhzQyv-zssA_Q1VF8sFNfZDYv7G_9gf_KljOMzRcbqAtCrIGY64RPWR9Fc6vh5h89LMlphIzlVpaZQq0kW_1d_75BZe9yfrioVWdhpZOw/s1600/IMG_6863.JPG" height="400" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A brief moment when both rabbits are occupied and relatively still...<br />
it didn't last long!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2XozuVRNdgaRiGCa0cbP2i7ZwFxfOfqiN9krPLjFdOtPn1tkmX59skta8wmwWsucrv7WTv6_VVj9LCHqE1IT_xXSRoDne2D1G-k9aztd7Z-0uK-H3jKfwe9VmK1pLVAXDFl703eVDy5U/s1600/IMG_6866.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2XozuVRNdgaRiGCa0cbP2i7ZwFxfOfqiN9krPLjFdOtPn1tkmX59skta8wmwWsucrv7WTv6_VVj9LCHqE1IT_xXSRoDne2D1G-k9aztd7Z-0uK-H3jKfwe9VmK1pLVAXDFl703eVDy5U/s1600/IMG_6866.JPG" height="237" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Pencil sketches of Thor.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgbBtN909qMdzZ9Q42AjExGsMOm1HLOtS2aZIIw2C_3JhxCO9HOh-G_O6xN1eBAEp62Ui8DJAKxPpwwKpRgGkKGEhbYT8_TQA8O_nAh9Jb-KK9stS0EqjPByl-716ByhQWv7EX-nFy8xOc/s1600/IMG_6869.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgbBtN909qMdzZ9Q42AjExGsMOm1HLOtS2aZIIw2C_3JhxCO9HOh-G_O6xN1eBAEp62Ui8DJAKxPpwwKpRgGkKGEhbYT8_TQA8O_nAh9Jb-KK9stS0EqjPByl-716ByhQWv7EX-nFy8xOc/s1600/IMG_6869.JPG" height="251" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A few brief lines then Odie was off, scampering around the conservatory!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEigQIKQJkkp8jCjM3BN0huhbhHm7hXdDyixmdPkATimvUgWnrW59XcK1yqcwEPV-wVc1XOtLa9BCCCfdY01OpxyQ2plTZXIcL1UTn2I-F6vINEgFRRgmSYRLj4HRj2_PWoFBeszz4pOvpQ/s1600/IMG_6872.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEigQIKQJkkp8jCjM3BN0huhbhHm7hXdDyixmdPkATimvUgWnrW59XcK1yqcwEPV-wVc1XOtLa9BCCCfdY01OpxyQ2plTZXIcL1UTn2I-F6vINEgFRRgmSYRLj4HRj2_PWoFBeszz4pOvpQ/s1600/IMG_6872.JPG" height="255" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Another day and another attempt - using pen this time.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgSTyeG390v96576rRd7GahXe_GK_vrb6zHot6xguB4tspytsr4R049YpJ8NaGj6lO5N595cMMHeFWClNheKh05iYwjs5pyEqwga13Y3AUpe1Kgggnaqr0Xsxn07z2AsUxiJ73VMATluZs/s1600/IMG_6874.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgSTyeG390v96576rRd7GahXe_GK_vrb6zHot6xguB4tspytsr4R049YpJ8NaGj6lO5N595cMMHeFWClNheKh05iYwjs5pyEqwga13Y3AUpe1Kgggnaqr0Xsxn07z2AsUxiJ73VMATluZs/s1600/IMG_6874.JPG" height="228" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Odie drawn in sepia Artline calligraphy pen 0.3,<br />
and Thor drawn with Edding profipen 0.7</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.youtube.com/embed/ZPOqxChvrTg?feature=player_embedded' frameborder='0'></iframe></div>
<br />
<br />
I tried working directly with watercolour using a water filled brushpen... hmmm, very dodgy results and page too wet to turn over and keep going. Decided to return to a more user friendly pencil.<br />
<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiHkaPEswc2Id2g0gsrphE_NM1NS713XZuI3h5onYecHCGDjnmWjtPmMNkeD1QLexKz6y2JUGgx4OIWH7Pn2oDngiR2F4NZDdWvdOvA9O0H0V0FtOUwtpIstXVSKYxjNcsjmJ36pDVCU7c/s1600/IMG_6876.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiHkaPEswc2Id2g0gsrphE_NM1NS713XZuI3h5onYecHCGDjnmWjtPmMNkeD1QLexKz6y2JUGgx4OIWH7Pn2oDngiR2F4NZDdWvdOvA9O0H0V0FtOUwtpIstXVSKYxjNcsjmJ36pDVCU7c/s1600/IMG_6876.JPG" height="226" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Can't imagine why I thought it would be a good idea to try watercolour...<br />
(once the page dried added a few pencil lines before moving on).</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihYH8QgYfroPHIvhx7gFtg0L04nJdXLm777Ba3fynJ7OB-Z-zAeeRzsc-eCQdsbY61Gd5t8Oy25fLTtxMCc9QhTv51n_5tCSiGZYN2wTRnox6rjGMSmX9XQ9LUAHnddxfpzxewfktEY_w/s1600/IMG_6877.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihYH8QgYfroPHIvhx7gFtg0L04nJdXLm777Ba3fynJ7OB-Z-zAeeRzsc-eCQdsbY61Gd5t8Oy25fLTtxMCc9QhTv51n_5tCSiGZYN2wTRnox6rjGMSmX9XQ9LUAHnddxfpzxewfktEY_w/s1600/IMG_6877.JPG" height="240" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Ah, back to pencil and as Odie calms down a bit and nibbles fitfully on some<br />
cabbage a more satisfying sketch emerges.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.youtube.com/embed/WEXNG73uCRE?feature=player_embedded' frameborder='0'></iframe></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.youtube.com/embed/Xu6d7iYuaBY?feature=player_embedded' frameborder='0'></iframe></div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBFjGjlPRhTcl8IgV3EN-fWbJqP0_nguiVe0PcMwh4iwA6GZki_niT_AMhaH7iMFitf7lq_CDrqaOa8AH4gO06LTUyGSlxgyPEuSB-cJtUrUweEo8hD8gvqK5wfsrJoRzCdSXa8kNDbhc/s1600/IMG_6878.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBFjGjlPRhTcl8IgV3EN-fWbJqP0_nguiVe0PcMwh4iwA6GZki_niT_AMhaH7iMFitf7lq_CDrqaOa8AH4gO06LTUyGSlxgyPEuSB-cJtUrUweEo8hD8gvqK5wfsrJoRzCdSXa8kNDbhc/s1600/IMG_6878.JPG" height="300" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Close up detail of sketch capturing the character of Odie...</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg14DLrKaPvBC1pzIivgYDNSG_Rscea3Wgs-SxnoNY1vEu00vzar4Ut80mthkB2vPJJtcmpwRiq8yuiNFbTHLpkV0HTLjfbCCeH1y14d_rlPFSo2b2wz7apwuVD4kcPbg5VmQfLsEw2hOU/s1600/IMG_6880.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg14DLrKaPvBC1pzIivgYDNSG_Rscea3Wgs-SxnoNY1vEu00vzar4Ut80mthkB2vPJJtcmpwRiq8yuiNFbTHLpkV0HTLjfbCCeH1y14d_rlPFSo2b2wz7apwuVD4kcPbg5VmQfLsEw2hOU/s1600/IMG_6880.JPG" height="243" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Thor still lively and only manage quick lines <br />
as pencil dances across the page to try and keep up.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3T8w-pkpHKjuLTGyNnisoJktrqgJmCGv47wTQjbX4pxYmC8LU6TMy_8__3kJI81uIgkrdEFX4JZm9dHs1Lb3pGSdS1NBTUpLbWgTaCy20MaRdl9P81PQMBr-QwtlR_1PFbHp1Dka79KQ/s1600/IMG_6881.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3T8w-pkpHKjuLTGyNnisoJktrqgJmCGv47wTQjbX4pxYmC8LU6TMy_8__3kJI81uIgkrdEFX4JZm9dHs1Lb3pGSdS1NBTUpLbWgTaCy20MaRdl9P81PQMBr-QwtlR_1PFbHp1Dka79KQ/s1600/IMG_6881.JPG" height="241" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Some rear shots...</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgIFnllsxVRJ-xKLrjAQ4Rq4p_1VkUSyIkmN4x-4b-8rDOaWpZ-AOTZ9mmI4tpfEYxAz6rMegZ6o8dKZyP9-FTF9s0K-DQSONpNiN_e2vbMfFd9ajXtt3-ddZHb6wAFyrePPCDZ6QTD4RM/s1600/IMG_6883.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgIFnllsxVRJ-xKLrjAQ4Rq4p_1VkUSyIkmN4x-4b-8rDOaWpZ-AOTZ9mmI4tpfEYxAz6rMegZ6o8dKZyP9-FTF9s0K-DQSONpNiN_e2vbMfFd9ajXtt3-ddZHb6wAFyrePPCDZ6QTD4RM/s1600/IMG_6883.JPG" height="237" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Lines showing more confidence in execution...</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8MlPCPIO9fwkjVqYYJNmvr3V0rmo1xZ_EAmO8cIJt6yaIEri-ECJcvnbk25apR2Sv5dZc3gT2B1_7aeiiz1zqPxyVnguZm2Ui34ZVQYx0Lt5EDheiVAIkRr-2qSKEOPxzJ10l1guPPXo/s1600/IMG_6885.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8MlPCPIO9fwkjVqYYJNmvr3V0rmo1xZ_EAmO8cIJt6yaIEri-ECJcvnbk25apR2Sv5dZc3gT2B1_7aeiiz1zqPxyVnguZm2Ui34ZVQYx0Lt5EDheiVAIkRr-2qSKEOPxzJ10l1guPPXo/s1600/IMG_6885.JPG" height="248" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Final page of rabbit sketches - "such fun"!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
The series of photos and the video clips highlight how tricky it is trying to make sketches from moving animals! My approach is to keep expectations low - focus on observing the animal, how does it move, what shapes does it make, what are the eyes, ears, nose like. What are the legs and feet like - how does this affect movement? All these fragments of lines, combined with hard questioning and looking, help to build up an understanding of the animal... page after page of simple elements are testament to the challenge of drawing a living creature and I am satisfied that I have learnt more about the animal, and drawing, during the process than from a single static photograph, especially if it is one that I haven't taken myself. However should I go on to create a more finished piece of work from a photo of Odie or Thor it will be with this first-hand knowledge backing up my intuition. <br />
<br />
If you have the opportunity to work from live animals, grasp it, enjoy the challenge and accept the limitations imposed upon the results.<br />
<br />
It just remains for me to wish you a Happy New Year and see you in 2015!<br />
<br />Tod Evanshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15888236635332828208noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1589919365805446787.post-66700884019896392642014-11-15T06:42:00.000-08:002014-11-15T06:42:57.703-08:00Sketching in Lisbon<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhEgmp1XP_uaYEolk2tCdR44RygnFQAI81vClYKoLE4dzICAW18F_M2cFAZ_3REBVLlsuyQBM1iGMxJoN9zdmFRO7T_ymnXEASMy0Q_JCdfcU6VTr2w6NkZZNY5kqEx-uezrbaMNG47au8/s1600/IMG_6683.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhEgmp1XP_uaYEolk2tCdR44RygnFQAI81vClYKoLE4dzICAW18F_M2cFAZ_3REBVLlsuyQBM1iGMxJoN9zdmFRO7T_ymnXEASMy0Q_JCdfcU6VTr2w6NkZZNY5kqEx-uezrbaMNG47au8/s1600/IMG_6683.JPG" height="300" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Sketching by the River Tagus, Lisbon.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
First, I must apologize for the break in blog posts. No excuses, and there have been many occasions when I think there are drawings, paintings or art events that I would like to share with you. I can only resolve to do better...<br />
<br />
The most recent exciting excursion was a mini break with my husband to Lisbon in Portugal. Just a two-and-a-half hour flight and we find ourselves walking around a fascinating city with a vibrant mix of culture and history, wealth and poverty, all jostling side by side. <br />
<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiitXQj8zBjMP2TbJh4XoHR3rYEJ1xyVFqLKthRflusHE_nP4d6x4R7h9T-Za2XPTsxJGZLOYyyZsVHdTn2Plc_AlBOBx_Q02ldEkl4m39OO2po1LkdbbWhQ1Y9g4j0SMzlpevJ8pNhotU/s1600/IMG_6610.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiitXQj8zBjMP2TbJh4XoHR3rYEJ1xyVFqLKthRflusHE_nP4d6x4R7h9T-Za2XPTsxJGZLOYyyZsVHdTn2Plc_AlBOBx_Q02ldEkl4m39OO2po1LkdbbWhQ1Y9g4j0SMzlpevJ8pNhotU/s1600/IMG_6610.JPG" height="300" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Mosaic style paving along the Avenida da Liberdade, <br />typical of much of the paving patterns in black and white around the city.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
Our hotel was situated in a quiet side street just off the Avenida da Liberdade, a wide avenue that leads straight down into the heart of the city. After dropping the bags off at the hotel for safe-keeping (until later in the day when we could officially check in), we sat in the shade along here sipping coffee from a kiosk-style cafe as we orientated ourselves and settled into this new environment. As we got up to leave I recall mentioning to Paul "I must sketch this next time we sit here..." as I loved the dark shade under the trees contrasting with the bright sunlight. Silly me, should have done it there and then. We didn't actually pause there again and the opportunity / inspiration was missed! </div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
</div>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFWwOX-6GkFCs4bMz5Yw3scwn8MdY7-8BCVCTB2bSFxrPuMx9aEp2_PwSEDEhbdk3AZTkPRa3xfeSNIN5BQqc5F4oZ5-cpeFwWsuEt8QgwAUTbVNyXMUwk7up9lq4hAN71X3Q26kNxREw/s1600/IMG_6726.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFWwOX-6GkFCs4bMz5Yw3scwn8MdY7-8BCVCTB2bSFxrPuMx9aEp2_PwSEDEhbdk3AZTkPRa3xfeSNIN5BQqc5F4oZ5-cpeFwWsuEt8QgwAUTbVNyXMUwk7up9lq4hAN71X3Q26kNxREw/s1600/IMG_6726.JPG" height="217" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Sketch in pen with pencil shading to pull trees forward and 'frame' the building. </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
We managed to pack in plenty of sightseeing, and purchased a 2-day ticket for the regular hop on - hop off tour buses with commentary offering insights to the area and buildings / events of note. A trip along the coast, up narrow twisting streets to the castle, around the key areas of the city and yet another, to the newest commercial part at night with some very contemporary architecture dramatically lit. Many of these areas were revisited on foot to investigate at a more leisurely pace. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgbpIjVF96XdYj92tBIcTEDNE470S_CmlxAgl863VBz0b6dP6TXtpHYe8_auHboLe8_A0qSE8ySTj3abfEBzcf4q9KH6jbpcMLe3hQTgYRMCUuS67TGIQSx5dTTJOUewKpm40SFzzlN8sU/s1600/IMG_6727.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgbpIjVF96XdYj92tBIcTEDNE470S_CmlxAgl863VBz0b6dP6TXtpHYe8_auHboLe8_A0qSE8ySTj3abfEBzcf4q9KH6jbpcMLe3hQTgYRMCUuS67TGIQSx5dTTJOUewKpm40SFzzlN8sU/s1600/IMG_6727.JPG" height="220" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Sketch and notes from the Jardim Botanico.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
The guidebook describes the Jardim Botanico as having 'a distinct air of neglect' but I wanted to visit anyway, and after a bit of a hunt to find the official entrance, we were pleasantly surprised. The complex comprises of two museums (Natural History and the Science museum housed within one large mansion) and ten acres of gardens. The ticket operative informed us that only last year it was finally recognised as a sight of special interest by Europe which meant that this year the government has released money to be spent on reforming it all to its glory. Already it was evident that much work had been done. I took a host of photos based on the effects of light and shade on the exotic trees, and when we rested on benches, I managed a few sketches. <br />
<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhKrVGDQQNqPjejwO5dureb6mJx0hgNAdHXjWB56drAq3GlBOBmiPGju5qMawzVAny4xyV38ApbVkVvklev9P3QvMudYguGwuDl_JE3KFEA6OCYQVO7qVN73msm0tB8G857f1C0jF9VTlo/s1600/IMG_6730.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhKrVGDQQNqPjejwO5dureb6mJx0hgNAdHXjWB56drAq3GlBOBmiPGju5qMawzVAny4xyV38ApbVkVvklev9P3QvMudYguGwuDl_JE3KFEA6OCYQVO7qVN73msm0tB8G857f1C0jF9VTlo/s1600/IMG_6730.JPG" height="222" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Dark shade beneath the palms captured quickly in pencil.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYGElCl-W6ZbcIASbBXGs1Kj9H7u6jqr8VHgD6fAaUgPXUhyT1ZKdxQI6ek3_FDYWqcAdMrjDD0TepGtgaY2QaP-VkZH4jvGkyq2-yCa1zQa8UAy3OyDMRdf4M5F08qSw_w01d1OqLktM/s1600/IMG_6703.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
All too soon our trip was at an end. There were still museums and places we would have liked to visit but choices have to be made, and we can recommend the Praca do Comercio, a visit to The Lisboa Story museum, the trams, the tour buses, the Castelo de Sao Jorge, the Monument to the Discoveries, and the old Carmelite church in Chiado with the graceful skeletal arches standing as a reminder of the 1755 devastating earthquake. Should we find ourselves back in Lisbon at any time a visit to explore the Gulbenkian Collection would be high on my list, plus some of the other fine houses and collections further afield. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Imagine our surprise when we arrived at the airport, in the evening, to find that our flight home was cancelled due to a strike by pilots and aircrew! After some time staff managed to secure us seats for a flight the following day. To our delight we were booked into another four star hotel overnight, in the posh commercial area, all paid for by the airline and with a three-course meal and breakfast too. This proved to be a contemporary 'boutique' style hotel and contrasted with our previous one, also delightful, but old style traditional with heraldry and a calm air of gentile living and attention to the finer things in life.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYGElCl-W6ZbcIASbBXGs1Kj9H7u6jqr8VHgD6fAaUgPXUhyT1ZKdxQI6ek3_FDYWqcAdMrjDD0TepGtgaY2QaP-VkZH4jvGkyq2-yCa1zQa8UAy3OyDMRdf4M5F08qSw_w01d1OqLktM/s1600/IMG_6703.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYGElCl-W6ZbcIASbBXGs1Kj9H7u6jqr8VHgD6fAaUgPXUhyT1ZKdxQI6ek3_FDYWqcAdMrjDD0TepGtgaY2QaP-VkZH4jvGkyq2-yCa1zQa8UAy3OyDMRdf4M5F08qSw_w01d1OqLktM/s1600/IMG_6703.JPG" height="300" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Colourful tile montage of superheroes outside the hotel <br />for our unexpected extra night in the commercial quarter of Lisbon.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
After a lovely meal, good sleep and hearty breakfast we had a few hours to fill before we needed to head back to the airport. A short stroll and we found ourselves along the riverside. It was bright and breezy and Paul had hoped the cable cars would be in operation. However I was a little relieved that they open later in the day as my head for heights isn't always good, and resolved to use the time for a sketch instead.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiWeSUoWynumPQAlThwEoyNuqGIW9KxpRfTbmI01bK8DNpPqIUx6ae7TwQgbHhlNoBDfSauLF9Q8ek2i-ZrqFc8ndbUQzrX_vAP1diTXdJwLYjykQx3UcAFgNZkZXnafVboM-UjViSH5Cs/s1600/IMG_6670.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiWeSUoWynumPQAlThwEoyNuqGIW9KxpRfTbmI01bK8DNpPqIUx6ae7TwQgbHhlNoBDfSauLF9Q8ek2i-ZrqFc8ndbUQzrX_vAP1diTXdJwLYjykQx3UcAFgNZkZXnafVboM-UjViSH5Cs/s1600/IMG_6670.JPG" height="400" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Cable cars along the promenade by the River Tagus. </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjxewam4DSXATiHjkHhFSGs2kD4auG0LGKU75OwtwmPWgPs3ttpfAI2UEOCKd9w5bj0s07DDXWeFkDsSIaoO06Ctq_IcxAaHIsLzYKW1gilv7XmavAxfKUcYfQKBDfVMbJKbmcFy0Fjt44/s1600/IMG_6732.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjxewam4DSXATiHjkHhFSGs2kD4auG0LGKU75OwtwmPWgPs3ttpfAI2UEOCKd9w5bj0s07DDXWeFkDsSIaoO06Ctq_IcxAaHIsLzYKW1gilv7XmavAxfKUcYfQKBDfVMbJKbmcFy0Fjt44/s1600/IMG_6732.JPG" height="640" width="321" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">My view along the promenade working directly with pen, <br />perspective might be a bit dodgy but pleased I included<br />cable cars and some joggers.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
A short break like this can be very inspiring and invigorating - highly recommended! Paul is already planning a short trip for next October, maybe Naples, and I am already planning to be much more productive next time in my sketchbook...which means plenty of practice between now and then.<br />
<br />
If you are thinking of a trip, consider tucking a small sketchbook of quality cartridge paper, with a few pens, pencils into your handbag; maybe a waterbrush and petite watercolour pan set too? <br />
<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3Tx1lo2NVBNUedJVlosdzeoFMCxChxFtDZC17Vm-IMefUTLZEuQXYZNLPxDCQVjuaWRCcZ0HnvC6lp6Qt8HSSFyA0DT59NW_Uw88NBieAP2NEJBEHqLOL3sGOFjCpxP-fpbfm3-frUxA/s1600/IMG_6776.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3Tx1lo2NVBNUedJVlosdzeoFMCxChxFtDZC17Vm-IMefUTLZEuQXYZNLPxDCQVjuaWRCcZ0HnvC6lp6Qt8HSSFyA0DT59NW_Uw88NBieAP2NEJBEHqLOL3sGOFjCpxP-fpbfm3-frUxA/s1600/IMG_6776.JPG" height="300" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Sketching equipment for Lisbon... Daler-Rowney hardback sketchbook (13.5 x 15cm),<br />small leather makeup bag used as pencil case, Edding black pen 07, <br />Pental 0.9mm clutch pencil (spare leads in pencil case), waterbrush <br />and Winsor & Newton watercolour pan set. <br />These all fit neatly in the front pocket of this handbag so I'm ready for action!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<br />Tod Evanshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15888236635332828208noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1589919365805446787.post-22209556609887258232014-08-28T02:24:00.000-07:002014-08-28T02:24:27.004-07:00Life Drawing Day<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhpB-Bb6fhWH8tn3rbQgd47n7hzBTN_dZB1c9Q4tU_YJCPyWzAfhZF87EMCM94uTeYiLswujEAPLj5KGkcuvvyOb1sFP5P236l7Ov0wc0dhlBMBvSaMRXQAkoY5V-5rTI6xOQCCwcKA8AU/s1600/IMG_5718.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhpB-Bb6fhWH8tn3rbQgd47n7hzBTN_dZB1c9Q4tU_YJCPyWzAfhZF87EMCM94uTeYiLswujEAPLj5KGkcuvvyOb1sFP5P236l7Ov0wc0dhlBMBvSaMRXQAkoY5V-5rTI6xOQCCwcKA8AU/s1600/IMG_5718.JPG" height="300" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Culmination of a delightful day...</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
A whole day earmarked for art during a busy, family orientated summer - sheer bliss! I attended the untutored life drawing day at Castle Acre. The event was held in a lovely village hall, tucked along a narrow country lane, with plenty of windows letting in lots of natural light (and offered lovely view of the ruined castle). The night before I was merrily trying to pack my art materials into a bag, and struggling as I seemed to have everything out of the cupboard! I had to tell myself out loud, "This is ridiculous, keep it simple..." and decided on taking charcoal, one box of pastel sticks and watercolours, along with a suitable selection of papers, drawing board and metal folding easel. I haven't painted with this group before, or in this venue, so also took water pot, kitchen towels and even plastic rubbish bags. We had been asked to bring along some food to contribute to a shared lunch so armed with a quiche, cherry tomatoes and grapes I was ready.<br />
<br />
Evie, the model, was a delightful young woman - a dancer who now teaches and models in her free time. She was lithe and flexible and could make lovely shapes with her arms and legs. Over the course of the day she posed wearing a leotard, a fluid jersey dress and a marvellous black tutu.<br />
<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjA_6c8GB2JEbthgBaYDRe_Sp1k1YzAkn647mFxqcYVuUCGQFuPSK1OFIV5EXUhoTZgX74vil4jKFUVawgnKu5MIixOqOq6jdCvouJm9jphFqjSCRNwecxvhHlY0X6enfAIncpbK5YH9M0/s1600/3+min+pose+A.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjA_6c8GB2JEbthgBaYDRe_Sp1k1YzAkn647mFxqcYVuUCGQFuPSK1OFIV5EXUhoTZgX74vil4jKFUVawgnKu5MIixOqOq6jdCvouJm9jphFqjSCRNwecxvhHlY0X6enfAIncpbK5YH9M0/s1600/3+min+pose+A.JPG" height="320" width="221" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Short poses to start... <br />3 minutes using charcoal on cartridge paper.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjI0ivzx-o3-Em5KaVdeKxi3aSitl8iAzsghDj4tsVNEu6BghMjWDMXpxvYvVjupgzpcjM53925Qlc8CJW9nUSjUhYowNeglyE61ruVKeeQKMg6UZyOHr0Mq6zxsp16CFCrJAFbvJmMzaQ/s1600/3+min+pose+B.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjI0ivzx-o3-Em5KaVdeKxi3aSitl8iAzsghDj4tsVNEu6BghMjWDMXpxvYvVjupgzpcjM53925Qlc8CJW9nUSjUhYowNeglyE61ruVKeeQKMg6UZyOHr0Mq6zxsp16CFCrJAFbvJmMzaQ/s1600/3+min+pose+B.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Interesting shaping in the leg position... charcoal.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgeZVDLhx7KKgqVyjEF1s3G7k9PgSZwt84XaiwPFoONdDWRQTqKViMXi2SifwYwuJ18GqlxniSDldnacbMakTUhAt4RFo9qCaehkogk6KMpaTMxDQkcGhYLV7iBd0iu2IkdzyGX_A9ooCQ/s1600/3+min+poses+C.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgeZVDLhx7KKgqVyjEF1s3G7k9PgSZwt84XaiwPFoONdDWRQTqKViMXi2SifwYwuJ18GqlxniSDldnacbMakTUhAt4RFo9qCaehkogk6KMpaTMxDQkcGhYLV7iBd0iu2IkdzyGX_A9ooCQ/s1600/3+min+poses+C.JPG" height="320" width="204" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Warming up, tackling 3-5minute poses.<br />(Charcoal on left, sepia pen on right).</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7qTJErrx3jPaxR0rz2M6t9bY25euEF_sMybXNbY8A0ciqPolCQjebTVEjl8IQSmXg_V2X0K1FCrRq4ZahXRpCeoAyvZ_roiIHUzO-RMO0ipIMaMCth-xo2bPu1UQpr1MwtAKPMAaTO5o/s1600/3+min+poses+D.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7qTJErrx3jPaxR0rz2M6t9bY25euEF_sMybXNbY8A0ciqPolCQjebTVEjl8IQSmXg_V2X0K1FCrRq4ZahXRpCeoAyvZ_roiIHUzO-RMO0ipIMaMCth-xo2bPu1UQpr1MwtAKPMAaTO5o/s1600/3+min+poses+D.JPG" height="320" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">More complex limb positions... <br />(brown pastel stick on left, charcoal on right).</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhNKk5oy7mwUuEZCzBJB9AdC6ibjqiISRtVWYODVxbMFC-_nYFt5a1mhMX6GFThpr8aLo5sNO3jXhnczw1X8NkRQHwNmGM2vZimHto9P3KDn7BPJ4HtAo-vxXtsrsHpmhiQgbqIRHFbXM/s1600/10+min+poses+superimposed.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhNKk5oy7mwUuEZCzBJB9AdC6ibjqiISRtVWYODVxbMFC-_nYFt5a1mhMX6GFThpr8aLo5sNO3jXhnczw1X8NkRQHwNmGM2vZimHto9P3KDn7BPJ4HtAo-vxXtsrsHpmhiQgbqIRHFbXM/s1600/10+min+poses+superimposed.JPG" height="400" width="252" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Charcoal and pastel on tinted pastel paper... <br />actually two poses superimposed, can just see initial<br />one when Evie was other side of frame, facing me.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgRXOcKu41XEz-g-P93UZ2DyOA_2V45gPuVnMI3PpvP_I7yM3PwJ7BjRAfbJM3CxCptSm8Uj-boYWCXZYx7YmYs2oW4QdJDd54hxV9lEExtmNDjkXYalvgfaeRLZc9B2gPhjPzFnWa5ETg/s1600/3+min+pose+E.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgRXOcKu41XEz-g-P93UZ2DyOA_2V45gPuVnMI3PpvP_I7yM3PwJ7BjRAfbJM3CxCptSm8Uj-boYWCXZYx7YmYs2oW4QdJDd54hxV9lEExtmNDjkXYalvgfaeRLZc9B2gPhjPzFnWa5ETg/s1600/3+min+pose+E.JPG" height="320" width="218" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Charcoal to create initial mid-tone over paper,<br />then eraser to lift lights and charcoal stick to add line.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhUWoyWH42AnmhkAG7n0SDxGg2n8upPJX57FEP3vGclO6V2LrNKTsTc_wIGIYIekpVv3ajVJzkOd8wK746ABsel0k72_xxuHQrQb65-PjPKgCuOvgbiE4YMsV_3AOxztPYc0gFf5BaCnOg/s1600/20+min+A.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhUWoyWH42AnmhkAG7n0SDxGg2n8upPJX57FEP3vGclO6V2LrNKTsTc_wIGIYIekpVv3ajVJzkOd8wK746ABsel0k72_xxuHQrQb65-PjPKgCuOvgbiE4YMsV_3AOxztPYc0gFf5BaCnOg/s1600/20+min+A.JPG" height="320" width="234" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">After tea break Evie popped a jersey dress<br />over her leotard. Lovely drapes and folds<br /> to describe the body now obscured.<br />(Charcoal and pastel on tinted pastel paper).</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhH4_AvlJruOxvpZIGDMCDZp3NU95usECYTJXfCtEmoueBoyq8s_662bj0t3Qh_w5wKeYdqy1TFEMc8LYGZI8b5P2ApUra92ETM-Bt6Ix1YGzB0PdUcw5vogL3QQRNefkWqRqvpQ-wnK4w/s1600/IMG_5725.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhH4_AvlJruOxvpZIGDMCDZp3NU95usECYTJXfCtEmoueBoyq8s_662bj0t3Qh_w5wKeYdqy1TFEMc8LYGZI8b5P2ApUra92ETM-Bt6Ix1YGzB0PdUcw5vogL3QQRNefkWqRqvpQ-wnK4w/s1600/IMG_5725.JPG" height="320" width="235" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Beautiful pose - 20 minutes - charcoal <br />on lavender blue tinted pastel paper with pastel to pick out main highlights.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-uEiCMDOePdhRzNHzNdbeYw4rCtVF0RbYL6s9LMIYSyFNyK8Do-ULcf4xutIOFWpNbRkFKqBhLN3zAdo4chglNvbtCOX9QXIuJyMKkCu7lmNCFuVtrskMUaKGFSJqe94y5L07HqQX5SY/s1600/30+min+pose.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-uEiCMDOePdhRzNHzNdbeYw4rCtVF0RbYL6s9LMIYSyFNyK8Do-ULcf4xutIOFWpNbRkFKqBhLN3zAdo4chglNvbtCOX9QXIuJyMKkCu7lmNCFuVtrskMUaKGFSJqe94y5L07HqQX5SY/s1600/30+min+pose.JPG" height="320" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Another longer pose, 30 minutes, interesting<br />angle of head and shoulders from my position.<br />(Graphite pencil on cartridge paper).</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBd1qlqUPM3KFn3Qarqe6_Zk0vaeiFt5eTGmZSussivbcWaeOWHwI_PwlUPNUCpGrNSIZKPKG0_YerELXG7RfS1CweATmmY1QfUYlCfR3RwNltGEFGzPO_l_E5kYwTB9Za9RbqmsMJOyw/s1600/20+min+B.JPG" height="240" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" width="320" /></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Another pose, another medium - watercolour on Bockingford<br />paper (140 lbs, Not surface) and no pencil drawing first as time of the essence!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />
Whew, we were all ready for the lunch break! I am amazed at the drawings and variety of poses Evie has provided us with already. After an hour of food, coffee and chatting to get to know some of the the other participants (other than Helen, who organized the event, I was pleased to see several other artists I already knew) we were all eager to crack on again...<br />
<br />
Two longer poses this time offering the chance to settle into work with a bit more substance.<br />
<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhAdkQ9CGFMg4wStYxLam9SjTRka2YUdnhXCZLhJLyGLwfh7TBUBqO8GtYIRi_APi88rosBLljylv_p3gXBqzwtnW0bVQ-wWn7SC7Kisk0mHUQZbwk5Hy-3WtNvAmv0V7J06uuKrnCp91s/s1600/1+hour+pose+A.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhAdkQ9CGFMg4wStYxLam9SjTRka2YUdnhXCZLhJLyGLwfh7TBUBqO8GtYIRi_APi88rosBLljylv_p3gXBqzwtnW0bVQ-wWn7SC7Kisk0mHUQZbwk5Hy-3WtNvAmv0V7J06uuKrnCp91s/s1600/1+hour+pose+A.JPG" height="400" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">1 hour pose, watercolour as underpainting on Art Spectrum cream paper<br />with pastel and charcoal. <br />Evie creates such a beautiful shape - interesting angles in the negative spaces,<br />yet fluid lines in her body.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjI_We9q_U9oQztmKs4REnGIb2SfSv986D-Rhk9bU1CUAJtlWM5XCcpCZ7E6obG9os7kNu3o8diIM52iNt4O-PDtnVzH-jY_qC7Q7su9GryReAwis_j7AfAXpOHE557eUpUFDg6GRNz7Gc/s1600/1+hour+pose+B.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjI_We9q_U9oQztmKs4REnGIb2SfSv986D-Rhk9bU1CUAJtlWM5XCcpCZ7E6obG9os7kNu3o8diIM52iNt4O-PDtnVzH-jY_qC7Q7su9GryReAwis_j7AfAXpOHE557eUpUFDg6GRNz7Gc/s1600/1+hour+pose+B.JPG" height="300" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Final pose of the day (1 hour again) and Evie definitely deserved to rest.<br />My heart sank initially when I looked at this view, it seemed so 'flat' but the more <br />I looked the more intrigued I became - the unusual angle, the shapes of the arms, the thrust of the torso,<br />the perspective of the lower legs and all that lovely netting of the tutu.<br />As my eye delighted in the inky black of her tutu I was glad that I had tucked in some Quink ink to my supplies at the last minute - perfect! Turned out to be my favourite pose and work of the day. </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<br />
A day of looking and seeing. Transcribing in line, tone and colour the fascination of the human form in a variety of configurations, and in several different media. Time well spent. Thank you Evie and all the other friendly people for such a lovely day, and to Helen for organising it!<br />
<br />
<br />Tod Evanshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15888236635332828208noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1589919365805446787.post-41248368858242128852014-08-16T13:24:00.001-07:002014-08-17T03:42:09.930-07:00When Life Gets in the Way of Art... Don't Panic!.. 6 Strategies to Help<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHEv97lzaDL854mxMbIbq6zk9ZFm8PByH2UaeMt8ebnLT5P_sVRPeDAUybBUYszuWlPFzHEq2hvjTWIs8UawAO4GbnF9_Jw4mqSednIQIRPjwW0LrS6bCK-vB7XWvPJp0Rx7UvULGFAH0/s1600/IMG_5490.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHEv97lzaDL854mxMbIbq6zk9ZFm8PByH2UaeMt8ebnLT5P_sVRPeDAUybBUYszuWlPFzHEq2hvjTWIs8UawAO4GbnF9_Jw4mqSednIQIRPjwW0LrS6bCK-vB7XWvPJp0Rx7UvULGFAH0/s1600/IMG_5490.JPG" height="300" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Happy event...Wedding of eldest daughter!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
The summer break is in full swing. No classes until mid September, and I should be spending long productive days in the studio... except I'm not. Don't get me wrong. Life is good. Our eldest daughter got married last weekend. Our middle daughter has returned after over a year teaching English at a primary school in Mexico, and with us for the summer is her delightful boyfriend. As we visit local areas of interest it is as if we are seeing with fresh eyes, which can be a bonus. We have been visualizing and planning a new kitchen which is now ordered and likely to be installed in September... So lots going on, but none of them really to do with art. Potentially this is a period of art-making drought and it would be easy to hit the panic button. But I am now starting to get comfortable with the idea that creativity often waxes and wanes in cycles. And sometimes life just gets in the way. It is how we view this hiatus and what we do with it that is important.<br />
<br />
<b>1. Stay connected by using a sketchbook. </b>Small portions of time can be treasured by opening the pages of your sketchbook and quickly recording something... anything... an idea, a view, a person, an object or even just jotting words, reminders, an experience.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-L6XzUGzmYJU/U5TvxIEhO2I/AAAAAAAABhY/GgQXyckBfGk/s1600/IMG_4870.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-L6XzUGzmYJU/U5TvxIEhO2I/AAAAAAAABhY/GgQXyckBfGk/s1600/IMG_4870.JPG" height="400" width="381" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Rodney in pencil and watercolour, from a photo<br />
- a real character, full of life and fascinating stories...</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-xd0ozWsMuj4/U-9yQ_s6lwI/AAAAAAAAB0U/GoagMNFuCO8/s1600/IMG_5570.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-xd0ozWsMuj4/U-9yQ_s6lwI/AAAAAAAAB0U/GoagMNFuCO8/s1600/IMG_5570.JPG" height="300" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Quick pencil sketch on another P&R bus journey.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-rS3QH-TLWZo/U-91aXP6ZRI/AAAAAAAAB1U/DqyCZKNfNuc/s1600/IMG_5577.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-rS3QH-TLWZo/U-91aXP6ZRI/AAAAAAAAB1U/DqyCZKNfNuc/s1600/IMG_5577.JPG" height="300" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Overcast, breezy day on Hunstanton Beach. <br />
Note the minimalist art equipment I had in my handbag so I could work on location.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<b><br /></b>
<b>2. Visit inspiring events and make notes. </b>During this period I visited Art in Action in Oxford with my family on what turned out to be the hottest day of the year to date!!! Lots of amazing creative arts and crafts people, so plenty to inspire... My sister and I attended a free one hour lecture about writing, all rather timely as I have been harbouring vague notions of sometime writing a book (non fiction and yes arty!) but all ideas still very nebulous... Out came the sketchbook for scribbled notes during the talk. <br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-TyC91jiocYs/U-9yrG1LI_I/AAAAAAAAB0c/u_naQ34pD-c/s1600/IMG_5571.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-TyC91jiocYs/U-9yrG1LI_I/AAAAAAAAB0c/u_naQ34pD-c/s1600/IMG_5571.JPG" height="300" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Notes made during a short lecture titled 'The Principles of Writing'.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<b>3. Visit art exhibitions, even if a 'whistlestop tour'. </b>Whilst visiting Norwich Castle Museum with family we did pop into the current exhibition about birds. This was a fascinating insight into how birds have inspired art in many forms and the clean lines of one sculpture particularly called out to me. A few pencil lines in the sketchbook and a note made of the sculptor so I can look online later were enough. I also nipped into the contemporary bird exhibition and again made note of artists whose work intrigued me... which neatly leads onto the next point.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-RSBH7xIpLck/U-9y3Gw4vCI/AAAAAAAAB0k/BWq69dJP4zQ/s1600/IMG_5573.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-RSBH7xIpLck/U-9y3Gw4vCI/AAAAAAAAB0k/BWq69dJP4zQ/s1600/IMG_5573.JPG" height="300" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The briefest note can be made and researched online later...</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<b>4. Research art / artists / blogs / videos online. </b>Keep your interest alive by looking online and following some of those threads that take you on a tangent - I have discovered many new exciting talented people, jotted down notes on things worth trying and watched techniques being demonstrated. Plenty of ideas for my own work and/or classes in the future.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6hm9NLs5ZEZU2i1bFjUMm9Telsr9MVZcdz7KabC1FEJ2pdDWZfFqUknvdrG9rUNQ5lryoSOcccZwxqAk9yF9QTGoIVWE36lQDrsNLpxmtRjF5Khsuqp1jQlKIoJo8gKri7S5AYL1tbGo/s1600/IMG_3338.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6hm9NLs5ZEZU2i1bFjUMm9Telsr9MVZcdz7KabC1FEJ2pdDWZfFqUknvdrG9rUNQ5lryoSOcccZwxqAk9yF9QTGoIVWE36lQDrsNLpxmtRjF5Khsuqp1jQlKIoJo8gKri7S5AYL1tbGo/s1600/IMG_3338.JPG" height="400" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">One of the things I keep track of is ideas and internet searches in my gorgeous 'fauxdori'.<br />
Look this up online (or midori) to read about this resurgence of 'commonplace' style books. </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<b>5. Stay involved with your local art Association. </b>If you belong to an art association, club or society try to stay involved. Submit recent work if possible for current exhibitions, attend social events and enjoy spending a short time with other artists. As a Committee member I was responsible for compiling the invigilation rota for the West Norfolk Artists Association Summer Festival Exhibition, although I was unable to assist with the hanging of the work this year. However I was back in Norfolk for the Preview Evening and manned the Enquiry/Sales desk to make up for it!<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-XDB9WvQb9ss/U8ekg5MQCkI/AAAAAAAABvk/u5Goqmj4Ivk/s1600/IMG_5213.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-XDB9WvQb9ss/U8ekg5MQCkI/AAAAAAAABvk/u5Goqmj4Ivk/s1600/IMG_5213.JPG" height="400" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Recent painting exhibited in <br />
WNAA Summer Festival Exhibition July 2014</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<b>6. Take time out for 'art day' or even a short course. </b>Earlier in the summer break I did seize the opportunity to be a volunteer for Tara Leaver as she wanted to work one-on-one with people who had an issue they would like help with. She is training to be a Creative Counsellor and is currently working under the guidance of Eric Maisel. I was delighted when she accepted me for the four week session with my proposal of wishing to find a way to create animal 'non portraits' (as we decided to call them). The sessions were all conducted via email with photos of work created as evidence of the processes / techniques tried during this period. Although Tara's work is very different to my own, her blog and words of encouragement / motivation / guidance were invaluable and I hope that the experience was mutually beneficial. I certainly never expected an instant answer to an ongoing issue I have periodically tackled for years but I have definitely felt a shift in vision and attitude and (when I get more time) new avenues to continue my explorations. A big heartfelt 'thank you' Tara for your insight, suggestions and feedback! Take a look at http://taraleaver.com and visit her blog...<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-mU8PkN_JpgQ/U7qEWhgR_pI/AAAAAAAABuA/TegSZt_c8IA/s1600/IMG_5188.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-mU8PkN_JpgQ/U7qEWhgR_pI/AAAAAAAABuA/TegSZt_c8IA/s1600/IMG_5188.JPG" height="393" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Red squirrel 'pulled out' from wash of walnut ink <br />
with sepia pen work for minimal detailing <br />
and gouache to emphasize negative shapes. </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-k1sOp43IVdk/U9gae7I9wwI/AAAAAAAAByY/L3UA_sspjFk/s1600/IMG_5275.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-k1sOp43IVdk/U9gae7I9wwI/AAAAAAAAByY/L3UA_sspjFk/s1600/IMG_5275.JPG" height="300" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Blind contour drawing.<br />
Looking only at reference photo, as eyes travel around image, <br />
the hand mimics this movement and drawing implement leaves traces as evidence. </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
The technique below was tried first as a single drawing...<br />
<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-c4NAF9TYAos/U9gaVDZCYNI/AAAAAAAAByQ/PM1rJN5AvRA/s1600/IMG_5276.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-c4NAF9TYAos/U9gaVDZCYNI/AAAAAAAAByQ/PM1rJN5AvRA/s1600/IMG_5276.JPG" height="300" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Charcoal sticks get placed between two sheets of paper...</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-t3wPocBe6fk/U9gaJ2gcB0I/AAAAAAAAByI/fqZBtWaAuBo/s1600/IMG_5279.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-t3wPocBe6fk/U9gaJ2gcB0I/AAAAAAAAByI/fqZBtWaAuBo/s1600/IMG_5279.JPG" height="300" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The charcoal sticks are crushed - a mix of fine powder and small slivers.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-0Hsk6eQUQNA/U9gaA-t_bZI/AAAAAAAAByA/vBP4xGluAU0/s1600/IMG_5283.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-0Hsk6eQUQNA/U9gaA-t_bZI/AAAAAAAAByA/vBP4xGluAU0/s1600/IMG_5283.JPG" height="300" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Tip some of the charcoal mixture onto the drawing surface <br />
and smear with hand to suggest essence of pose.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-4x-2nvmdWmE/U9gZlb_-YTI/AAAAAAAABxw/hovOmZjAZFo/s1600/IMG_5287.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-4x-2nvmdWmE/U9gZlb_-YTI/AAAAAAAABxw/hovOmZjAZFo/s1600/IMG_5287.JPG" height="300" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The end result - on this occasion a Perlin that looks rather pigeon-like, oh well...</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<br />
The sequence below shows the stages of a drawing as several poses of the Perlin (Peregrine Falcon x Merlin) get superimposed over one another. Crushed charcoal is used to suggest the essence of the bird before a charcoal stick and eraser is used for mark making to suggest further detailing. The next image gets started over the top, but elements of previous work will act as a palimpsest and create a subtle influence. This drawing could never be repeated as freedom of marks, speed and intuition all come into to play to create such an energetic image. I loved this technique! <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Bfi0626Ptis/U9gZQ_u0JCI/AAAAAAAABxo/HihgWzPOp8s/s1600/IMG_5290.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Bfi0626Ptis/U9gZQ_u0JCI/AAAAAAAABxo/HihgWzPOp8s/s1600/IMG_5290.JPG" height="300" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">1st stage</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-bJzcpfBmsHk/U9gY8e6XfLI/AAAAAAAABxg/c95ctA8W25A/s1600/IMG_5291.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-bJzcpfBmsHk/U9gY8e6XfLI/AAAAAAAABxg/c95ctA8W25A/s1600/IMG_5291.JPG" height="300" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Result...</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-n-vfxInlqpc/U9gYwWlNCuI/AAAAAAAABxY/nNw440g0X6k/s1600/IMG_5294.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-n-vfxInlqpc/U9gYwWlNCuI/AAAAAAAABxY/nNw440g0X6k/s1600/IMG_5294.JPG" height="300" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">2nd stage...</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-xyWGnxX1znM/U9gYeMamFJI/AAAAAAAABxQ/ICiv1Q-T0gw/s1600/IMG_5297.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-xyWGnxX1znM/U9gYeMamFJI/AAAAAAAABxQ/ICiv1Q-T0gw/s1600/IMG_5297.JPG" height="400" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Result...</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-4dhZdsiUdfM/U9gXwyHLcAI/AAAAAAAABxA/wj3EmLo4bFw/s1600/IMG_5299.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-4dhZdsiUdfM/U9gXwyHLcAI/AAAAAAAABxA/wj3EmLo4bFw/s1600/IMG_5299.JPG" height="300" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">3rd stage</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Zgg9HVuDp1k/U9gXOv6gduI/AAAAAAAABww/IWT2X_T3wHM/s1600/IMG_5312.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Zgg9HVuDp1k/U9gXOv6gduI/AAAAAAAABww/IWT2X_T3wHM/s1600/IMG_5312.JPG" height="400" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Finished drawing. Such movement and energy - a non-portrait!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-kHtdUTgT11E/U9gWwLl2akI/AAAAAAAABwg/hNcxIUcCG54/s1600/IMG_5316.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-kHtdUTgT11E/U9gWwLl2akI/AAAAAAAABwg/hNcxIUcCG54/s1600/IMG_5316.JPG" height="300" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Detail of head showing tone, line and subtractive mark making.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-LZQC-Ie5fDk/U9gXAoGCGyI/AAAAAAAABwo/LPJ2Fio1R64/s1600/IMG_5313.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-LZQC-Ie5fDk/U9gXAoGCGyI/AAAAAAAABwo/LPJ2Fio1R64/s1600/IMG_5313.JPG" height="400" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Detail of mark making with eraser <br />
- large sweeping movements of arm to produce corresponding marks in wing.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
Well, that has brought us all up to date. Next week I have reclaimed a day for art by committing myself to a life drawing day in the village hall at Castle Acre. This will be an untutored session with a clothed model. As I haven't done any (human) life drawing for quite some time I am really looking forward to this and will let you know how I get on.<br />
<br />
If you are also going through a time when art is having to take a bit of a 'back seat', I hope some of my suggestions will be useful and help you to carve out a few creative sessions, to maintain the connection with your creative self, and keep the panic at bay.<br />
<br />Tod Evanshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15888236635332828208noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1589919365805446787.post-65199312703032335232014-06-30T16:11:00.000-07:002014-06-30T16:11:33.422-07:00Keep That Sketchbook Ready...<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifvAYJayFDj1oLOa10Ar83FSoFSzlIlpPKSoH-DrFlbqbTZruZNt_39Ax6Lkg6Ntb2xkm70o1vA74__sgpinE4rAnYOL5R2CrFJSGkxrluSjgLMt7ndXXtNjNtb2QwZeKpM_DLsWBn-hM/s1600/Sketches,+detail+(3).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifvAYJayFDj1oLOa10Ar83FSoFSzlIlpPKSoH-DrFlbqbTZruZNt_39Ax6Lkg6Ntb2xkm70o1vA74__sgpinE4rAnYOL5R2CrFJSGkxrluSjgLMt7ndXXtNjNtb2QwZeKpM_DLsWBn-hM/s1600/Sketches,+detail+(3).JPG" height="300" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i>Harvey</i>, quick graphite pencil sketch <br />(detail from page in Derwent 17cm x 12cm sketchbook ). </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
A trip to Norwich today (shopping and library) unexpectedly offered a lovely twenty minute sketching opportunity! I use the Park and Ride and also on the bus was a couple with a delightful terrier type dog who looked a real character. As the bus set off my fingers were itching to grab my pencil and start sketching. As I now always have a sketchbook and small pencil case in the front pocket of my handbag there was no delay. When we got off the bus in Norwich I spoke to the couple, asked about their delightful dog and showed them the sketches. They seemed quite surprised, and pleased, when I offered to email images of the sketchbook pages to them. So, the moral of this blog post - keep that sketchbook ready, you never know when it will come in handy.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEghgaGuXVJBF9cXkG3pPnQwk8-eU0ygwSkYVy-fMlGZpjUuzw8LNn-TlM99-zTuUVPW6TrRDZBN_e3-fpvlMy2z0NGTm2XGrhLchgdwCcdKXN9-KISP-U7cE3rMg_4aSUgh_sJtEFAsRGg/s1600/Sketches,+Harvey+on+the+Norwich+bus+(1).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEghgaGuXVJBF9cXkG3pPnQwk8-eU0ygwSkYVy-fMlGZpjUuzw8LNn-TlM99-zTuUVPW6TrRDZBN_e3-fpvlMy2z0NGTm2XGrhLchgdwCcdKXN9-KISP-U7cE3rMg_4aSUgh_sJtEFAsRGg/s1600/Sketches,+Harvey+on+the+Norwich+bus+(1).JPG" height="300" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Searching lines, focus intense... hand/eye coordination kick in.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjr9io6D6KCLfeCanh_TwgUrUKO-WWjY4f-athxV7Y2j00JXLxmSbrn1zWOrL1mao87zc2puRZSWhXmYolP0rBn_ob5oUY4mddAliKdkzZYFGBXlJxM4wzyInedPb3jW0qaMmqlS1vpzS4/s1600/Sketches,+Harvey+on+the+Norwich+bus+(2).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjr9io6D6KCLfeCanh_TwgUrUKO-WWjY4f-athxV7Y2j00JXLxmSbrn1zWOrL1mao87zc2puRZSWhXmYolP0rBn_ob5oUY4mddAliKdkzZYFGBXlJxM4wzyInedPb3jW0qaMmqlS1vpzS4/s1600/Sketches,+Harvey+on+the+Norwich+bus+(2).JPG" height="300" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Harvey moves around constantly <br />as the bus hurtles along the dual carriageway.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiOatTQCteZQUHzZ7oTDRTJ3DG5rCt27_diuoPlyKlbnus5_QrZxkZNvhKsD4pM-SpgvgQ1f8RMQbFZCEhme7nGD2OZVfJ0d7JKHchVP8HnvgAcfXbiFvhEXNfhX0BZOeECNrQfNm91z_0/s1600/Sketches,+Harvey+on+the+Norwich+bus+(4).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiOatTQCteZQUHzZ7oTDRTJ3DG5rCt27_diuoPlyKlbnus5_QrZxkZNvhKsD4pM-SpgvgQ1f8RMQbFZCEhme7nGD2OZVfJ0d7JKHchVP8HnvgAcfXbiFvhEXNfhX0BZOeECNrQfNm91z_0/s1600/Sketches,+Harvey+on+the+Norwich+bus+(4).JPG" height="300" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Harvey braces himself as the bus swings along busier roads to the city.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgnr1I_gb2u3iFqBg97xIwT5PtMzVty6QNGrFKVjBNMxQ8dtVSF94iyBLJc-tVXlejWA4Qe0r9oURPhmZ38XKYfNSzP_hmOb4fAtfS9l-gEigHt79h1uQBW-2X8xcJIJrwTc0siC7vMBdM/s1600/Sketches,+detail+(1).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgnr1I_gb2u3iFqBg97xIwT5PtMzVty6QNGrFKVjBNMxQ8dtVSF94iyBLJc-tVXlejWA4Qe0r9oURPhmZ38XKYfNSzP_hmOb4fAtfS9l-gEigHt79h1uQBW-2X8xcJIJrwTc0siC7vMBdM/s1600/Sketches,+detail+(1).JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i>Harvey</i>, detail from page.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiR9Iq7cEoml8lTJE0GqO8vSRPzQXqpNVIzu6LlgqGydEYdGN6Dc-NjLI6rlkb0-iMOIlWPsPVd9YHZEDtpku-dwuGfuzaimpjz9K14WEx5z4dlbfevWRRSSOkK4lK8lornU7LHxvyXWs4/s1600/Sketches,+detail+(2).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiR9Iq7cEoml8lTJE0GqO8vSRPzQXqpNVIzu6LlgqGydEYdGN6Dc-NjLI6rlkb0-iMOIlWPsPVd9YHZEDtpku-dwuGfuzaimpjz9K14WEx5z4dlbfevWRRSSOkK4lK8lornU7LHxvyXWs4/s1600/Sketches,+detail+(2).JPG" height="320" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i>Harvey</i>, detail from page.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />Tod Evanshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15888236635332828208noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1589919365805446787.post-88786522931111062972014-06-24T11:36:00.000-07:002014-06-24T11:36:52.123-07:00When Nothing is Working... Try Something New!<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-K4V_eGyFCb0/U6iXymQ-lLI/AAAAAAAABos/yOkJ4zEpDIs/s1600/IMG_5037.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-K4V_eGyFCb0/U6iXymQ-lLI/AAAAAAAABos/yOkJ4zEpDIs/s1600/IMG_5037.JPG" height="300" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A new approach...</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
Last weekend was earmarked for Art with a capital A. With the West Norfolk Artists Association Summer Exhibition fast approaching, and the deadline to get entry forms in almost here, I was running out of time to produce some new work. If I had high expectations, they soon came crashing down. Nothing was working out, I felt rather uninspired and it showed. Frustration and disappointment set deep by Sunday evening. My long suffering husband had to put up with 'woe is me' and lots of sighing. "I don't know what my personal artwork is about..." and "It's all got a bit lightweight and flimsy" were some of the words muttered.<br />
<br />
My mind must have been in overdrive while I slept, however. Monday morning I woke up, and a little mental pep talk whilst in the shower gave me whole different mindset for the day. Deep down I do know what I want my work to be about - contrasts of media, translucent versus opaque, detail versus abstract passages (for a start). I would try something different. I would experiment. Take the pressure off. I already have one pastel being framed so at least I have one work to enter. If nothing else I will at least have some fun!<br />
<br />
Taking my theme of 'Artist in an Acre' I selected two photos as inspiration. I planned to create an abstract underpainting, then bring some semblance of order out of the chaos by working on the top but allowing passages of the initial layer to show too... These step by step photos demonstrate the stages one of the paintings went through. I started by laying the support on a waterproof sheet, on the floor, for the initial work - I planned on getting messy!<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-irnDW7V4S3Q/U6iX6X0CfsI/AAAAAAAABo0/WeoJFNhy7HE/s1600/IMG_5042.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-irnDW7V4S3Q/U6iX6X0CfsI/AAAAAAAABo0/WeoJFNhy7HE/s1600/IMG_5042.JPG" height="310" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Diluted acrylic washes painted on to a canvas board - not pretty.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-JF_LVk1rPX4/U6iYCd3q6SI/AAAAAAAABo8/nWaRzGtA4w4/s1600/IMG_5043.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-JF_LVk1rPX4/U6iYCd3q6SI/AAAAAAAABo8/nWaRzGtA4w4/s1600/IMG_5043.JPG" height="308" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Thicker paint sponged on in selected areas. <br />Once dry, liquid acrylic ink is squirted and diluted on the surface, <br />drips encouraged.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-F3XojOc2uJ0/U6iYKGM4lUI/AAAAAAAABpE/UeRr6jmTw8s/s1600/IMG_5046.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-F3XojOc2uJ0/U6iYKGM4lUI/AAAAAAAABpE/UeRr6jmTw8s/s1600/IMG_5046.JPG" height="312" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Oooh, now things are getting interesting... dribbles of white diluted gesso.<br />The yellow acrylic ink wasn't as dry as I thought and mingles - I like it! </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Xcrw9lEiGg8/U6iYSPf8JMI/AAAAAAAABpM/fgqaKjFefJQ/s1600/IMG_5048.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Xcrw9lEiGg8/U6iYSPf8JMI/AAAAAAAABpM/fgqaKjFefJQ/s1600/IMG_5048.JPG" height="300" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Once the previous layer dried more acrylic ink is added...</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-DchO89jul0I/U6iYbCKSrpI/AAAAAAAABpU/-jzTZxj0BGg/s1600/IMG_5051.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-DchO89jul0I/U6iYbCKSrpI/AAAAAAAABpU/-jzTZxj0BGg/s1600/IMG_5051.JPG" height="308" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Assessment time... </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-e8m11lSVbjQ/U6muvpPJdVI/AAAAAAAABro/mlU7fPnbIjM/s1600/IMG_5079.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-e8m11lSVbjQ/U6muvpPJdVI/AAAAAAAABro/mlU7fPnbIjM/s1600/IMG_5079.JPG" height="300" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Taking charge, now referring to reference photo more - <br />need to keep things loose though</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Mm18fLYufWE/U6mu3BXhgXI/AAAAAAAABrw/uw1kw7yCs-A/s1600/IMG_5085.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Mm18fLYufWE/U6mu3BXhgXI/AAAAAAAABrw/uw1kw7yCs-A/s1600/IMG_5085.JPG" height="300" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Ah, now there is some context.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-uBDTg5nGzDs/U6mvUDQm-WI/AAAAAAAABr4/iYGswj0Glc4/s1600/IMG_5087.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-uBDTg5nGzDs/U6mvUDQm-WI/AAAAAAAABr4/iYGswj0Glc4/s1600/IMG_5087.JPG" height="300" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Keep the work loose. Spatter and droplets of brighter colour <br />for suggested leaves...</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-CLNs-78u9TI/U6mvd82wV8I/AAAAAAAABsA/BeLbJJfIoGA/s1600/IMG_5115.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-CLNs-78u9TI/U6mvd82wV8I/AAAAAAAABsA/BeLbJJfIoGA/s1600/IMG_5115.JPG" height="301" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Tinted gesso for skyholes, needed some more 'pop' generally<br /> and more emphasis on sunlit grass. Out come the Conte crayons and<br /> finally 'Ta Dah' - finished!<br /><i><b>Stream of Light</b>,</i> 35.5cms x 46cms, acrylic & Conte on canvas board.<br /></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br /><div>
I have also completed another artwork, a diluted acrylic underpainting on gessoed mountboard then worked up with soft pastel. Unusual for me, I did no blending of the pastel layers. So, when nothing is working... try something new. A different approach could work wonders. I am delighted with the results of the past two days, fingers crossed the selectors like my work!<div>
<br /></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ixpeVwCbL0g/U6ic8sgh0zI/AAAAAAAABqQ/TXQIz-2ESnw/s1600/IMG_5074.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ixpeVwCbL0g/U6ic8sgh0zI/AAAAAAAABqQ/TXQIz-2ESnw/s1600/IMG_5074.JPG" height="400" width="358" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i><b>Late Light, Spring</b> </i>59cms x 54cms, acrylic & pastel on gessoed mountboard.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div>
</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
</div>
Tod Evanshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15888236635332828208noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1589919365805446787.post-12892313346164230822014-06-14T12:57:00.001-07:002014-06-14T12:57:17.679-07:00Drawing in a Museum - Hints & Tips<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ALHptuqoFEo/U5yaJLdq5vI/AAAAAAAABlQ/YSVA2ek3RBg/s1600/IMG_4959.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ALHptuqoFEo/U5yaJLdq5vI/AAAAAAAABlQ/YSVA2ek3RBg/s1600/IMG_4959.JPG" height="300" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Travelling light... basic equipment for a few hours sketching</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
During the past week I have had lots of practise sketching in a museum setting - an activity I always really enjoy. The mixed media class I run takes place in the studio at Henderson Art and Framing in Gaywood, King's Lynn. For a change this term I put a 'field trip' on the programme. The two afternoon sessions took place in Lynn Museum, plus I went prior to these as the displays have been revamped since I last visited. I put myself into the mindset of a newcomer to this activity and jotted down some suggestions to discuss:<br />
<br />
<ul>
<li><i>Walk around - get the feel of the museum and what is displayed.</i></li>
<li><i>What interests you / catches your eye?</i></li>
<li><i>'Warm up' - do some quick small sketches to get comfortable in environment / concentrate the mind / get hand-eye coordination 'on the go'.</i></li>
<li><i>Move into more concentrated sketching / drawing - what interests you most about subject / object?</i></li>
<li><i>More than one drawing of object? Same or different view / treatment / media?</i></li>
<li><i>Make notes alongside sketches? Factual about object / subject or jottings about colour / light etc?</i></li>
<li><i>Try different media / approaches?</i></li>
<li><i>Multiple sketches on page? Larger drawing going across gutter / ringbinder? </i></li>
<li><i>Try turning sketchbook around for variety of formats - portrait / landscape etc.</i></li>
</ul>
<div>
<i><br /></i></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-yROGeaUVOZI/U5x-IMay75I/AAAAAAAABj0/Zgp5X2OUIVs/s1600/IMG_4907.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-yROGeaUVOZI/U5x-IMay75I/AAAAAAAABj0/Zgp5X2OUIVs/s1600/IMG_4907.JPG" height="400" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Two members of the class busy with their sketchbooks<br />(yes, they gave me permission to use my photo here)</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div>
<i><br /></i></div>
<div>
The two sessions were a great success, although a few members missed the opportunity for one reason or another. None of them had ever actually experienced drawing in a museum before. They settled quickly, generated several drawings each in their books in a variety of media and coped admirably! I was really pleased and hope that they might consider using sketchbooks more often when out and about. I stressed that it wasn't about making pretty pictures, or with a view to getting enough information to create paintings from. It was purely drawing for the enjoyment of studying and recording aspects of an object / subject that appealed. No pressure, so no problem. Try it for yourself, it could lead to whole new avenue to explore...</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
I shall leave you with some photos of my own efforts, and if you were wondering about the glue stick in the image at the top of this post - it's to attach the receipt to the page and make it an integral part rather than an after thought.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-dVmML6KDcY4/U5yXbEML0fI/AAAAAAAABkE/mAysJYfLuZI/s1600/IMG_4944.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-dVmML6KDcY4/U5yXbEML0fI/AAAAAAAABkE/mAysJYfLuZI/s1600/IMG_4944.JPG" height="237" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Start with simple shapes like these pots before trying a more complex study</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div>
</div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-hMBcuyX5uv0/U5yXkVjXroI/AAAAAAAABkM/00_4Bm_sY0I/s1600/IMG_4946.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-hMBcuyX5uv0/U5yXkVjXroI/AAAAAAAABkM/00_4Bm_sY0I/s1600/IMG_4946.JPG" height="251" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Savage's Fairground Ride captured in water soluble pen<br /> - reminded me of 'Roadrunner' from the cartoon</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div>
<br /></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-E5uCU-tpZk0/U5yXp9e-N1I/AAAAAAAABkU/mn3_PIU7xzw/s1600/IMG_4947.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-E5uCU-tpZk0/U5yXp9e-N1I/AAAAAAAABkU/mn3_PIU7xzw/s1600/IMG_4947.JPG" height="231" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Back to pencil and a line drawing of the timbers from Seahenge,<br /> it was the negative spaces between them that caught my eye</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div>
<br /></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-y2cTj30q0fc/U5yXysjRrxI/AAAAAAAABkc/H08U9Z0QU3M/s1600/IMG_4949.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-y2cTj30q0fc/U5yXysjRrxI/AAAAAAAABkc/H08U9Z0QU3M/s1600/IMG_4949.JPG" height="366" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Water soluble pencil, and when I had gathered enough information <br />I moved on, no need to slave over a drawing</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div>
<br /></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-bL6xHF8aYp4/U5yX5tke5SI/AAAAAAAABkk/SGa7Nm19zD0/s1600/IMG_4950.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-bL6xHF8aYp4/U5yX5tke5SI/AAAAAAAABkk/SGa7Nm19zD0/s1600/IMG_4950.JPG" height="238" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Ah, subject matter I love - translated on the page in sepia & black pen on the left,<br />water soluble pencil on the right </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div>
<br /></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ihaASRnpeeM/U5yYAXBdzOI/AAAAAAAABks/EoDzAJhe6BA/s1600/IMG_4951.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ihaASRnpeeM/U5yYAXBdzOI/AAAAAAAABks/EoDzAJhe6BA/s1600/IMG_4951.JPG" height="640" width="296" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Turn the sketchbook around for a different format <br />to better suit the subject... sepia pen and water soluble pencil <br />for added tone</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Finally...</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-WmVKKACPJ90/U5yYH2NqvOI/AAAAAAAABk0/7ZcXBjFYwwk/s1600/IMG_4952.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-WmVKKACPJ90/U5yYH2NqvOI/AAAAAAAABk0/7ZcXBjFYwwk/s1600/IMG_4952.JPG" height="232" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The Central Stump of Seahenge looking very sculptural and set off <br />with a dark scribble of pencil as a background</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div>
<br /></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-6iWtSR7z8EA/U5yYSLr6_GI/AAAAAAAABk8/X66rhMDQWMU/s1600/IMG_4956.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-6iWtSR7z8EA/U5yYSLr6_GI/AAAAAAAABk8/X66rhMDQWMU/s1600/IMG_4956.JPG" height="386" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Sepia pen for these wooden carvings</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div>
<br /></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-w-9KBoXpMB4/U5yYZ_GqbzI/AAAAAAAABlE/TqLCb3YilZE/s1600/IMG_4958.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-w-9KBoXpMB4/U5yYZ_GqbzI/AAAAAAAABlE/TqLCb3YilZE/s1600/IMG_4958.JPG" height="388" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Graphite pencil for this handsome beast</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Thank you to the staff at Lynn Museum www.museums.norfolk.gov.uk who were very friendly and didn't mind us commandeering chairs and stools as we moved around the space tracking down objects of personal interest.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
Tod Evanshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15888236635332828208noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1589919365805446787.post-75544432122965173652014-06-10T16:11:00.002-07:002014-06-10T16:23:11.519-07:00The Open Studio Experience<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-LAuDdijb2b0/U5TuskJc2aI/AAAAAAAABhA/DxfpE_FSnII/s1600/IMG_4846.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-LAuDdijb2b0/U5TuskJc2aI/AAAAAAAABhA/DxfpE_FSnII/s1600/IMG_4846.JPG" height="300" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Doors thrown open in welcome...</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
Norfolk & Norwich Open Studios 2014 has proved to be an enjoyable affair and, even if not in monetary terms, I consider it a success. It was the first time I have opened up my home studio and did wonder if I would get any visitors at all as I am tucked away in a little village so far out. After a slow start on that first Saturday (the torrential rain in the morning may have played a part) the remaining days saw a steady trickle of family, friends, neighbours and a few new curious people from further afield who saw my entry in the brochure. A very big "thank you" for your support and interest, it has been much appreciated. The feedback on my studio and artwork has been very encouraging and sales of greetings cards plus a few items from the browser has been a boost.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-XF8A5wW1L60/U5eB-fFfa3I/AAAAAAAABho/92DkaUptth0/s1600/IMG_4827.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-XF8A5wW1L60/U5eB-fFfa3I/AAAAAAAABho/92DkaUptth0/s1600/IMG_4827.JPG" height="300" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Trying out drawing techniques with Quink ink and dip pens...</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
I had laid out a table with two work stations and encouraged visitors to have a go with the dip pens and Quink ink. Whilst this medium is not suitable for wall hanging work as it is not lightfast, it is perfect in a sketchbook. When diluted out into a wash with clean water the black ink separates out into delightful blues, greys and sepia - all by itself, like magic.<br />
<br />
Will I do an Open Studio event at home again? Definitely, although maybe the year after next as it will give me time to build up a new body of work. What would I do differently? I was very happy with how I had the studio and felt the cards/postcards/browser and bargain basket were worth having. I enjoyed taking the artwork off the walls and rearranging (curating) into a new configuration - it helps to see the work with fresh eyes. I wanted to display some of my collection of found natural objects and felt having them dotted around amongst the art created coherence and added interest. I think next time I would splash out on advertising with personal invitation cards, and post notices in the 'What's On' free sections of local papers/online.<br />
<br />
I shall leave you with some more images of my lovely studio and a few views of the work I had on my easels during the period...<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-CMS78QaQQv0/U5Tu3d57ujI/AAAAAAAABhI/2Hw0O1AoA9o/s1600/IMG_4854.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-CMS78QaQQv0/U5Tu3d57ujI/AAAAAAAABhI/2Hw0O1AoA9o/s1600/IMG_4854.JPG" height="400" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Bringing the outdoors in...</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-CP_1E05-HZA/U4Rtow-Kf7I/AAAAAAAABbU/NWq4-1jjMPk/s1600/IMG_4670.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-CP_1E05-HZA/U4Rtow-Kf7I/AAAAAAAABbU/NWq4-1jjMPk/s1600/IMG_4670.JPG" height="300" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i>Artist in an Acre 2014 </i>display</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-kkOM3DAOwlc/U5TvIurF9QI/AAAAAAAABhQ/QCQTBtgoWKQ/s1600/IMG_4858.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-kkOM3DAOwlc/U5TvIurF9QI/AAAAAAAABhQ/QCQTBtgoWKQ/s1600/IMG_4858.JPG" height="300" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Some of the natural objects I collect...</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-eSzXDHMhQV0/U4RtPW1073I/AAAAAAAABbM/8MkoOly3XUs/s1600/IMG_4679.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-eSzXDHMhQV0/U4RtPW1073I/AAAAAAAABbM/8MkoOly3XUs/s1600/IMG_4679.JPG" height="400" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Information about art classes </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-LDgh9Srw-yU/U4R4qglvANI/AAAAAAAABbk/BDWCF2iFtDg/s1600/IMG_4671.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-LDgh9Srw-yU/U4R4qglvANI/AAAAAAAABbk/BDWCF2iFtDg/s1600/IMG_4671.JPG" height="300" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Dog portrait in pastel - the underpainting stage</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-C75mG_z19EI/U42n6HjA0uI/AAAAAAAABdU/GgrB9fUYemc/s1600/IMG_4713.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-C75mG_z19EI/U42n6HjA0uI/AAAAAAAABdU/GgrB9fUYemc/s1600/IMG_4713.JPG" height="400" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Work in progress - camel in charcoal</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8FHv-U0N0gtnFWHGq9i64VMMyDsYpZMAgvCoTDGaaKvuPh_TwiwJaxvEgIer6lI5M2fjE9z1KOt48y4B-hXvJtj9HtxjLXwG4yuBDXEDyZIB_rOMvwtqOJnKeKyzAcnNQqtaI-8K3-B8/s1600/IMG_4718.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8FHv-U0N0gtnFWHGq9i64VMMyDsYpZMAgvCoTDGaaKvuPh_TwiwJaxvEgIer6lI5M2fjE9z1KOt48y4B-hXvJtj9HtxjLXwG4yuBDXEDyZIB_rOMvwtqOJnKeKyzAcnNQqtaI-8K3-B8/s1600/IMG_4718.JPG" height="640" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Pencil drawing (from specimen) on white Bristol board, candle wax added to <br />
dandelion seed heads to act as resist during next stage</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-JDZYY49u--o/U42qLCKXljI/AAAAAAAABd8/yNusIc6jJrY/s1600/IMG_4719.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-JDZYY49u--o/U42qLCKXljI/AAAAAAAABd8/yNusIc6jJrY/s1600/IMG_4719.JPG" height="640" width="428" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Varigated watercolour wash applied,<br />
plus some spatter</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-_RSdwalvq88/U42qW4D433I/AAAAAAAABeE/5Sx98GefnBM/s1600/IMG_4721.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-_RSdwalvq88/U42qW4D433I/AAAAAAAABeE/5Sx98GefnBM/s1600/IMG_4721.JPG" height="640" width="470" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Colour and detail added with coloured pencil</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<br />Tod Evanshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15888236635332828208noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1589919365805446787.post-58665412919591762222014-05-27T05:31:00.002-07:002014-05-27T05:32:11.944-07:00Open Studio - First Weekend<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-As0nTwuEQI0/U3Jt824TCRI/AAAAAAAABYQ/21sB9Qcfi7w/s1600/IMG_4492.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-As0nTwuEQI0/U3Jt824TCRI/AAAAAAAABYQ/21sB9Qcfi7w/s1600/IMG_4492.JPG" height="400" width="351" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Inside and out... studio ready for visitors</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
As I write and look out the window, heavy rain is lashing down and it takes me back to the start of the weekend when Paul and I struggled in the wind and rain to fix laminated notices to gateposts. However it cleared by early afternoon and Open Studios was up and running. I had a quiet first day and only two visitors so finished the day wondering if my fears of being too 'off the beaten track' were well founded. Sunday dawned bright and clear and I had a lovely day with a steady flurry of interested visitors. Some were members of the art classes I teach and keen to see where I create the sample work for the sessions delivered at the Henderson Art & Framing studio in Gaywood. Others were members of West Norfolk Artists Association and having met me, or heard of me, seemed to enjoy chatting about the challenges of being an artist and viewing my personal artwork. Neighbours called round to find out more about what I 'get up to' and, of course, the dedicated art lovers who browse the NNOS14 brochure to find studios they would like to visit.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-px0Tlj_bq-k/U4EFn6ZeZYI/AAAAAAAABaA/BJfZeUJ63CI/s1600/IMG_4634.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-px0Tlj_bq-k/U4EFn6ZeZYI/AAAAAAAABaA/BJfZeUJ63CI/s1600/IMG_4634.JPG" height="300" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Studio view... happy to put the kettle on while you look at work <br />
and feel free to take a seat and chat about any aspects of being an artist.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
Yesterday, Bank Holiday Monday, was once again bright with sunny spells despite showers forecast. I was delighted to receive visitors again interested in art and artist studios. I have Work in Progress on my table easel and floor standing easel, but haven't made much progress as I do love to chat! A major highlight of the day was when my mum and sister surprised me with a flying visit, they had travelled all the way from Hertfordshire.<br />
<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-LDgh9Srw-yU/U4R4qglvANI/AAAAAAAABbk/BDWCF2iFtDg/s1600/IMG_4671.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-LDgh9Srw-yU/U4R4qglvANI/AAAAAAAABbk/BDWCF2iFtDg/s1600/IMG_4671.JPG" height="300" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Blocking in base layers for dog portrait using soft pastel</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
So, what can you expect if you visit? The walls display my personal artwork which includes many animal portraits, a particular passion, in a variety of media. There is a browser with mounted (but not framed) work and these include studies and still life subjects. A Bargain Basket contains loose work of mostly experiments or workshop studies. There is a stand with cards/postcards for sale and a display of artwork samples to promote the pastel and mixed media classes I teach. Further round is an area devoted to my Artist in Acre Project - self initiated and an ongoing task for the whole year. This brings us back to the Work in Progress, this will change as artwork gets completed and a new challenge gets underway.<br />
<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-eSzXDHMhQV0/U4RtPW1073I/AAAAAAAABbM/8MkoOly3XUs/s1600/IMG_4679.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-eSzXDHMhQV0/U4RtPW1073I/AAAAAAAABbM/8MkoOly3XUs/s1600/IMG_4679.JPG" height="400" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Read the programme for current classes, <br />
and view examples of work from previous sessions</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
I have also set up a table with natural objects and examples of drawings done with dip pens and Quink Ink. Feel free to have a go and experience the amazing properties of this permanent ink - ideal for use in a sketchbook (but not work for hanging as not lightfast).<br />
<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-DdawqVVBB5U/U4EFSZHHoZI/AAAAAAAABZw/aQk6GNqpKF0/s1600/IMG_4626.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-DdawqVVBB5U/U4EFSZHHoZI/AAAAAAAABZw/aQk6GNqpKF0/s1600/IMG_4626.JPG" height="300" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Try your hand at drawing with a dip pen, and Quink Ink</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
This weekend has proved that there are family, friends, neighbours, acquaintances and art lovers who are local or from further afield, interested to see what Open Studios is all about. Thank you all for your interest and support, it is greatly appreciated and I look forward to meeting more of you over the next two weekends.<br />
<br />
Visit www.nnopenstudios.org.uk for more information on participating artists.Tod Evanshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15888236635332828208noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1589919365805446787.post-13911814197202912202014-05-20T15:29:00.002-07:002014-05-20T15:29:21.370-07:00Open Studio 2014<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-cyAuja_i29c/U2dMVlSTlaI/AAAAAAAABXk/ZEBws5w_n9k/s1600/NNOS14_PRIMARY_LOGO_20_YEARS.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-cyAuja_i29c/U2dMVlSTlaI/AAAAAAAABXk/ZEBws5w_n9k/s1600/NNOS14_PRIMARY_LOGO_20_YEARS.jpg" height="320" width="228" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
Apologies, I can't believe that I left it so long without updating these blog posts! The busier I am, the more I have to potentially show you but the less time there is to sit at the computer. The sun is shining and there is a Bank Holiday weekend coming up - yes, it is that time of year again when artists across Norfolk throw open their studio doors and invite family, friends and the general public into their creative spaces. In previous years I have intermittently participated as part of a group in various locations, but this year I am opening my own studio here at home...<br />
<br />
I have been doing some dusting and hoovering and sorting/organising the clutter that inevitably accumulates in the corners, but don't worry, it is unmistakably a working artist studio and I certainly plan to be drawing and painting during the opening times. I have enjoyed deciding what work to display and where, I think I should change things around on the walls more often! It can help to see work with fresh eyes. With just a few days left to go I now feel almost ready.<br />
<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-T9LLRbPr-Po/U3sFNx32OyI/AAAAAAAABZE/la5mlSRn1Wc/s1600/IMG_4582.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-T9LLRbPr-Po/U3sFNx32OyI/AAAAAAAABZE/la5mlSRn1Wc/s1600/IMG_4582.JPG" height="300" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Almost ready... and here is a taster</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
For directions please visit the Norfolk & Norwich Open Studio website at www.nnopenstudios.org.uk or if you are local and have a brochure see page 66, under West Norfolk 14. Please note it is a different image in these locations - so look for the lemur!<br />
<br />
In the meantime, here is a personal invitation. If you are in the area it would be lovely to see you. More news soon, and I will catch up news on my self-set 'Artist in an Acre' project.<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-2UNxWBHHfbs/U3vGgcQECsI/AAAAAAAABZg/dZKZpmh6TcM/s1600/IMG_4600.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-2UNxWBHHfbs/U3vGgcQECsI/AAAAAAAABZg/dZKZpmh6TcM/s1600/IMG_4600.JPG" height="640" width="472" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />Tod Evanshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15888236635332828208noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1589919365805446787.post-38221761442677403802014-03-31T16:59:00.003-07:002014-03-31T17:02:08.624-07:00Indian Ink<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2BDYrUnZwoolq0F_vvm-T0Hc_uH5fA4lSoHfdfy0Dk6x6xHqFWK69lP13WR5oW4oJ0Te7p_QddG-75SsxuZj9RjgFuJ70qSzB-CQjKMEQUTwKQrvYChPpc0x9uSOY-rXh-DGddFPx18M/s1600/IMG_3003.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2BDYrUnZwoolq0F_vvm-T0Hc_uH5fA4lSoHfdfy0Dk6x6xHqFWK69lP13WR5oW4oJ0Te7p_QddG-75SsxuZj9RjgFuJ70qSzB-CQjKMEQUTwKQrvYChPpc0x9uSOY-rXh-DGddFPx18M/s1600/IMG_3003.JPG" height="277" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i>And the Day Came..., </i>Indian Ink, Tod Evans</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
Recently I have been enjoying using inks in my work. Black Indian ink, when diluted, creates soft shades of grey. It diffuses gently when watered down, but try adding it full strength with a brush onto wet paper and it explodes in an exciting manner. The painting above was created in response to the challenge of making work inspired by poetry, song or quotations for the recent West Norfolk Artist Association spring exhibition. (Unfortunately the photograph has a very blue tint to it, apologies). The starting point was choosing a quotation, this was the easiest part as these words attributed to Anais Nin (1903 - 1977) have long held resonance for me:<br />
<br />
<i>'And the day came when the risk to remain tight in a bud was more painful than the risk it took to blossom.'</i><br />
<i><br /></i>
I relate to it because I wasted a lot of years wanting desperately to paint and draw, but was too fearful to try.<br />
<br />
Having decided on the quotation I jotted down several ideas in my notebook, starting with something that was almost a mini installation. As my brain worked out the logistics the ideas became simpler until I ended up with this. I initially used pencil to draw the stages of the bud, semi opening and then fully opened blossom on Fabriano '5' hot pressed watercolour paper. This paper is smooth and bright white, a great contrast to the black ink. I introduced passages of ink into the background first before tackling the blossom. Areas were strengthened and some spatter added.<br />
<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj5YMxxOGMzyrS-fdGVtUSgHgyWWPvdhcNUkhyphenhyphen-VAEYAEY-W0RWzfUDf_f2EPXqJTQpiHbcpkhVEHaqLBDCBI9tVgYaAevJvAnax1Yny5g2bVtnESNDCQn6o0lyxWGLZE-aLZd-aGvqRWs/s1600/IMG_2991.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj5YMxxOGMzyrS-fdGVtUSgHgyWWPvdhcNUkhyphenhyphen-VAEYAEY-W0RWzfUDf_f2EPXqJTQpiHbcpkhVEHaqLBDCBI9tVgYaAevJvAnax1Yny5g2bVtnESNDCQn6o0lyxWGLZE-aLZd-aGvqRWs/s1600/IMG_2991.JPG" height="293" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Background and stages of blossom in Indian ink...</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
I considered carefully whether I wanted text on the painting itself. Having made the decision to include it - how and where? I chose to write the quotation sideways, and to repeat it several times. To help integrate the words into the overall design I used counterchange with white ink on the darker background, and black ink on the lighter areas. I created a mottled effect by brushing diluted black ink over some of the starker white writing to 'push it back' visually. Finally, I added some linear work with a dip pen, again using counterchange. The block of writing to the left of the paper helped to balance the image as the larger open flower on the right is quite commanding. I was pleased with the end result.<br />
<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgweMni7QTmP9aC_27-5Ir7BTDx_NZ6flzskqtYjEWpS8_GrpkGPLxGKgzg34b0JrISan6vYZdt5ZyFMXEnAxKWU8MgWJ6UkoA2VtyJfyryGLnBkhgnNo5DqdRbKzU7q6Do07QCuDCFZfU/s1600/IMG_3004.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgweMni7QTmP9aC_27-5Ir7BTDx_NZ6flzskqtYjEWpS8_GrpkGPLxGKgzg34b0JrISan6vYZdt5ZyFMXEnAxKWU8MgWJ6UkoA2VtyJfyryGLnBkhgnNo5DqdRbKzU7q6Do07QCuDCFZfU/s1600/IMG_3004.JPG" height="400" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Detail of text added sideways to left of painting</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
Is there a piece of poetry, song lyric or quotation that has personal meaning for you? How could you respond to it in your artwork? This challenge could help give you a nudge out of your usual comfort zone, it certainly made me think as I don't usually include words.<br />
<br />
<br />Tod Evanshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15888236635332828208noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1589919365805446787.post-81053143140304840982014-02-08T16:21:00.000-08:002014-02-08T16:21:59.777-08:00Sketching in Norwich Castle, Natural History Room<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-F28XllmDGd0/UvYNUpQ5m2I/AAAAAAAABRU/AxxdqziOvAA/s1600/IMG_2843.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-F28XllmDGd0/UvYNUpQ5m2I/AAAAAAAABRU/AxxdqziOvAA/s1600/IMG_2843.JPG" height="230" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Pop in For a Pound - opportunity for a quick drawing session...</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
Last Monday I accompanied my son to Norwich and while he went off on a mission of his own I decided to nip up to the Castle Museum. I fancied visiting the Natural History Room but wasn't sure what the ticket price would be. I decided if entry was full price, as I would only be there a short while, it wouldn't really be worthwhile. If it was a reduced rate then I would go for it. Well, what a stroke of luck! A scheme is currently running to encourage lunchtime visitors whereby you pay £1 for one hour, and as I had arrived at 12.50pm I still qualified for the discount. I checked that sketching with pencil in a sketchbook would be permitted and was told that was fine and fold up seats were available nearby if required.<br />
<br />
I headed into the quiet calm of the Natural History Room and was delighted to see several students seated before the displays, all merrily drawing. I did make use of a seat and as time was limited I settled quickly before a glass cabinet with various antelope.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Zo-9HnjdoR8/UvYPXirwI0I/AAAAAAAABSo/027oEU3UkU0/s1600/IMG_2845.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Zo-9HnjdoR8/UvYPXirwI0I/AAAAAAAABSo/027oEU3UkU0/s1600/IMG_2845.JPG" height="231" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Great opportunity to study animals up close.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
Several small parties of young school children trooped through, plus a few general visitors, but my eyes remained busy, flicking constantly between the taxidermy animals and the page of pencil lines as I attempted to describe the elegant curving lines of antelope and their amazing horns. An hour passed by in a flash and it was time to head back down to the shops, back to the hustle and bustle.<br />
<br />
Why not seek out your local museum and spend time with your sketchbook instead of spending money and energy in the retail stores? Your mind and spirit will be refreshed, and you will have filled a few more pages! <br />
<br />
Tod Evanshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15888236635332828208noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1589919365805446787.post-17276839199438679162014-01-26T02:27:00.000-08:002014-01-26T02:27:48.947-08:00Another Attempt at YouTube Videos!<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-uEtGq5YvThc/UuTZpl7gNII/AAAAAAAABPA/5GR9ql3EdDc/s1600/IMG_0024+-+Copy.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-uEtGq5YvThc/UuTZpl7gNII/AAAAAAAABPA/5GR9ql3EdDc/s1600/IMG_0024+-+Copy.JPG" height="400" width="278" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Tubes of watercolour</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
Watercolours seem to be featuring quite a lot in my recent work, and also in the mixed media classes that have just started back after the Christmas break. This medium is so seductive, but probably one of the trickiest as there are so many variables - and to my mind it works best when 'given it's head' a bit. The paint likes to move by itself in water and it is scary to not be totally in control, but this is when watercolour seems to be magic! I decided to have another go at making a YouTube video and use it to introduce the materials and some basic principles/techniques as hints and tips. My previous attempts were time lapse - this would involve speaking...<br />
<br />
The introduction involved two attempts. The first time I tailed off at one point, forgetting what I wanted to say. However once I moved into chatting about the materials and the actual demonstration parts it was fine. In fact, once I'm off, there's no stopping me and I totally forgot that at the moment my YouTube account will only allow 15 minute maximum video length. I definitely exceeded that. Consequently, I had to discover (fast) how to edit and trim the video into two parts. Also how to join the short introduction so it was incorporated into the first section. So, the video has been posted in two parts again - not ideal but I will remember the shorter time frame in future. The good news? I also learnt how to use YouTube editor to add a title and an end frame with this blog address.<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.youtube.com/embed/dNGdIBvBR2Q?feature=player_embedded' frameborder='0'></iframe></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Thinking About Watercolour 1: Introduction and Basic Materials</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.youtube.com/embed/bzRV4BqEOhI?feature=player_embedded' frameborder='0'></iframe></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Thinking About Watercolour 2: Basic Hints and Tips</div>
<br />
<br />
Hope you enjoy my efforts, and would love any feedback!<br />
<br />
<br />Tod Evanshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15888236635332828208noreply@blogger.com0