Sketches

Started sketches for a poster design....more to come

Connor Sketch

IF: Resolve

I resolve to draw everyday in 2009, so I'm always looking for willing models. Late at night, Jack and Bella somehow resolve to plant themselves nearby where I am working, (usually on top of my desk). Sometimes cats just cry out to be drawn. Sketch of Bella done with micron pen (005) and a chubby Bic marker.

I like the work of Brian Rea. His pen sketch and lettering for the cover of a book of Tennessee Williams poems is perfect...

The first lines are the best

In college, an art professor once explained approaches to drawing and touted " a la prima or the first (lines) are the best." It's true...I usually end up preferring my initial sketches to the finished piece. By the time I've "cleaned up" the image, I've sometimes cleaned away the heart, spirit, and soul of the drawing.... These sketches, still in devlopment, for a folk portrait tribute (sort of) to Larry Downey, an ole time fiddler who passed away in 2001. I like the facial expression in the initial sketch, especially around the eyes, and mouth...he is older, wiser, and more likeable ..like Larry. In the second, he is younger, inexperienced, and slicker...not as likeable somehow. It boils down to a just few lines and shapes, (nose) but they are critical. Maybe will try a looser Ciardielloesque approach with pen and ink with washes.....hmmmm

Portraits

In an effort to give equal time to the rest of my brood, I am posting these two sketches of my twin daughters, Jenna, age 7 and Gabrielle, 7 months. I wish I had done them when they were the same ages, but, it was life in the fast lane....and then, there was Joseph,.. who is still waiting for his turn.