tartin
This ample lady gave me wonderful opportunities - two tough poses with real problems in perspective and foreshortening. As you can see these were separate but similar poses, the one on the left being first. This is a case where in contour drawing the old admonition to start with those parts closest may really be the best tactic. In the first drawing I started with the head and upper body working down toward the feet, missing the very strong difference in size between foot and head. While it is otherwise a decent representation of the pose, the lower left leg and foot are much too thin and compressed, missing the dramatic contrast seen in the second. There I started at the feet working my way up to the head, being sure to note and emphasize the contrast between parts close and those at a distance. In that respect this is a much more successful drawing than the first!
I do wish it were possible to show that second drawing complete here but unfortunately, it is just too large to fit in my scanner. I wonder if one of those hand-scanners that you move over the work would be a solution?
There's another aspect of this drawing that I find attractive. I've said in a earlier post that line is an reflection of reality but in the end, the product is a work of ART! The line quality of the second is a bit more abstract, less naturalistic. That, combined with my use of emphatic color in the line makes the whole piece more graphic. This isn't at all a large departure, but it is a recognition of the creative freedom possible. I intend to pursue this more actively in the future. Stay tuned!
BTW, you may have noticed that I rarely post a drawing without being critical. Why "Diss" my own work? I've spent almost 40 years as a teacher and it's difficult to ignore my natural instinct to share whatever insights I may have regarding my art , - or any art. As an artist I feel an obligation to those without experience and those who may be interested in an art career, professional or personal. I want to help in any small way I can. Even those with only a casual interest should know what they are looking at and how to look when drawing.
Kurt Vonnegut said, "To practice any art, no matter how well or badly, is a way to make your soul grow."
I do wish it were possible to show that second drawing complete here but unfortunately, it is just too large to fit in my scanner. I wonder if one of those hand-scanners that you move over the work would be a solution?
There's another aspect of this drawing that I find attractive. I've said in a earlier post that line is an reflection of reality but in the end, the product is a work of ART! The line quality of the second is a bit more abstract, less naturalistic. That, combined with my use of emphatic color in the line makes the whole piece more graphic. This isn't at all a large departure, but it is a recognition of the creative freedom possible. I intend to pursue this more actively in the future. Stay tuned!
BTW, you may have noticed that I rarely post a drawing without being critical. Why "Diss" my own work? I've spent almost 40 years as a teacher and it's difficult to ignore my natural instinct to share whatever insights I may have regarding my art , - or any art. As an artist I feel an obligation to those without experience and those who may be interested in an art career, professional or personal. I want to help in any small way I can. Even those with only a casual interest should know what they are looking at and how to look when drawing.
Kurt Vonnegut said, "To practice any art, no matter how well or badly, is a way to make your soul grow."
