Technically this isn't from my sketchbook, but it is a more unfinished study than what I usually do, and for that reason I'm saying it counts. I know I say I usually don't do studies before I do a painting, but this time I am. This is going to be a spiritual painting, based on one of my favorite scenes from the New Testament, and I want to make sure I get it right. I'm also working on a more finished drawing right now, and then will move on to the painting. The eyes are my favorite part of a sketch or a painting, there's just something so satisfying about trying to get them just right, so the person looks alive and full of emotion.
I was out of town for a few days last week, celebrating my anniversary with my husband, it was SO fun, loved every minute of it. We browsed around a bunch of different art galleries, and it was inspiring to see all the different work, I love doing that. It ignited that spark for me again and now I'm just itching to get some paintings finished and start on some new projects.
Also, if you want to post a sketch for today, just leave a note in the comments so I can come check it out, I'd love to see it :), and let me know what you're working on, it's always fun to see.
And here is a fun and inspiring quote about sketching from one of my favorite artists ever, Robert Barrett, it comes from his book "Life Drawing." Enjoy!
"A sketchbook allows you to draw for the pure pleasure of it. Most children draw because they want to, and so should you! Your sketchbook will become a self-portrait of sorts, reflecting your understandings and limitations, your assuredness or timidity, and your ability to devise solutions to problems."
What I'm listening to: Stolen by Dashboard Confessional, and Panic Switch by Silversun Pickups
Good to know that you had a great time on your anniversary. The sketch is very very cool.. I think the eyes and the mouth both together capture the emotion on her face.
ReplyDeleteWell, Happy Anniversary Crystal. Glad you had a wonderful time. Love your sketch and can't wait to see the finished painting.
ReplyDeletewow Crystal, hours of happiness on your anniversary:) Glad for you.
ReplyDeleteHowever her eyes are eloquence; I can touch those feelings in her face... I will wait when you will paint her completely; I believe that she has to look elegance more when you put the coloures on her:)
Wow! This? A sketch? I clearly have SUCH a long way to go! It's beautiful, beautiful, beautiful!
ReplyDeleteI agree, the eyes are the most important part of a face and you can almost fuzz out the rest and it would still look alive if the eyes are drawn well. Can't wait to see the finished painting - and next mondays sketch! It was fun joining in!
A belated happy anniversary to you! I'm glad you had a fun and inspiring day!
Happy Anniversary and wishes for many many more happy ones :)
ReplyDeleteThe expression and emotion on the face - in the eyes and mouth as everyone already noted :) -will definitely complement the spiritual context you are looking for ! will watch for the finished painting.
Beautiful quote too.
this is amazing... you can totally feel the emotion!! Great job & thanks for the comment! Totally appreaciated!
ReplyDeleteEven before I read the post and just looked at the work, I felt something spiritual about her.. beautifully captured emotion.. I am sure colors will work wonders and bring out the wholesome essence!
ReplyDeleteOh Crystal - this is a lovely sensitive drawing. Your portraits are delicate yet solid. The perfect mix. And the composition on this piece is GREAT. I just love it. Can't wait to see it painted. And...HAPPY ANNIVERSARY!! It sounds like you had a great getaway - just as it should be : )
ReplyDeleteI'm really happy you share your drawings. I love seeing the work.
Happy Anniversary to you both!! We had one too, on the 9th! And I just love sketchbook mondays! Your work is stunning and never fails to give me goose bumps! What a nice person you are!
ReplyDeletegreat work crytal!
ReplyDeleteHi Crystal beautiful sketch, Happy anniversary!
ReplyDeleteHappy Anniversary:) Isn't it great to get to visit art galleries? It's so inspiring. Love your sketch, such a good idea.
ReplyDeleteVery delicate, lovely and expressive. And its great to know that you enjoyed your vacation so much!..You also reminded me of my sketchbook which is lying untouched for many, many months!Thanks for inspiration:)
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