Sunday, January 04, 2015

I Don't Draw...

Well...not well anyway.

So here I am trying to do "sketches" for my first EBMC assignment.  Turns out she expects sketches that aren't...um...particularly 'sketchy'.  Hmmm...

Here's how I usually sketch; this example is from one of my "minis":

Sketch for "Tipsy" (2013)

As far as I can figure it, this is not quite what EB means...especially when one is doing a study on value.  First I managed a pen-and-ink drawing (no values shaded in yet):  It was really done on off-white paper but scanned into my computer on "B&W" mode, it looked more like this:


Yes, it's a prairie scene in winter.  "Draw what you know", right?  ;-)

Then I tried to work it out with some shading, using a variety of pencils.  (Not being skilled at what pencil labels mean, I found THIS website very helpful.)

Scanned version - set on "Black & White"

Photograph of the same "sketch" - better reflects the off-white paper

Working with pencils can be messy.  Somehow, I'd forgotten this...



I had to keep washing my hands, and using erasers (one large, one fine) to bring back the "snow" in the drawings, as I kept smudging it!

When I get back I'll be into the challenging work of taking my "sketches" and turning them into something I can create with fabric.

For now, though, I'll just say, 'Adios!' as I leave tomorrow for Edmonton and from there, very early on Tuesday, to HERE... - 27 C to + 27 C in a matter of hours.  Whoa!

Memories Paraiso Azul Resort, Cayo Santa Maria, Cuba
Yes, I'm taking handwork, a sketchbook, pens, water-colour supplies, my camera, sunscreen and bug spray...and a desperate determination to enjoy myself!

Have a great week!

14 comments:

Diane said...

Have a great trip

Pat said...

Love the sketch. Have a great trip.

Kaylene said...

Sketches are looking good. Cheers

Giddings Art said...

I think your drawing is wonderful! Pencil work can be messy. Something that helps me is keeping a small sheet of tracing paper under my hand as I draw. Also,when you are shading, if you are right handed, start working in the upper left corner. (Upper right hand if you are left handed.) And then I spray my work with fixative to keep it from smudging when I am done. I liked the website you found to explain the different pencil leads. Finally, enjoy your trip!!!! It looks wonderful!

els said...

Have a good trip and enjoy yourself to the fullest in "our" temperatures. You really deserve a wonderful vacation.

elle said...

The sketches look pretty good to me, Margaret. Bug spray! Kinda boggles the mind as I huddle around my hot cup. Darn cold! You definitely enjoy yourself!!! Happy holiday.

rtquilter said...

Well done Margaret! Don't you be running yourself down so much. You have done very well and what you have drawn will be great for creating a working pattern.
ENJOY your sojourn in the sunshine! We have sun today but with the wind chill, it feels like -23c.

Susan Lenz said...

I don't sketch well either! Have a fabulous time in Cuba! I'm very jealous!
Susan

Linda A. Miller said...

Have a fabulous trip, Margaret!

suzanna said...

Have a lovely trip! Safe travels...

Maggi said...

Have a great trip.

besshaile said...

I think you're getting the hang of sketches and yes - pencils are so messy! But so wonderful because - hey - erasers.

Bask well, in that sunshine, girlfriend.

California Fiber artist and composer said...

Margaret---Your sketches look beautiful. I would be thrilled to be able to draw like that. You should be thrilled with them

Have a wonderful holiday and enjoy the warmth and sun. Get some rest...it sounds as though EB will keep you working hard.

Judy Warner said...

Safe travels!