Remnants

Remnants   mixed on paper   11 x 16.75

is a mixed media drawing utilizing some of nature's creations left behind in autumn.  This drawing was begun as a workshop demonstration on value.  In this case, the darks move from left to right helping to explain the objects in the drawing...a tiny unhatched blue egg within a twiggy nest, some sweet gum seeds in a jar and a pie pumpkin.  The objects themselves require planning and fairly good draftsmanship in the rendering.  I like to think, however, that there is something bigger, more important, than each of the chosen items....it is the rhythm between them that, for me, simultaneously simplifies and empowers.  So be it.  My final answer.

I used:  charcoal pencils, conte crayon, watercolor, powdered charcoal and gouache....quite the concoction!

Drawing Trees

Hawthorne Tree   charcoal on paper   8 x 10

is harder than one might think....and it was at the top of the list for further study in our drawing class.  Some common mistakes:  a too-dark value when relying on a photo reference; not considering the "counter-spaces" between the limbs; and using organic line to describe the limbs, making the tree appear to be weak and rubbery.  I believe that the best resolve for study would be an up-close-and personal sketching session of the joint between a tree trunk and its limb, revealing the play of light and shadow, the roundness and the structure that occurs during branching.  Trees are not created equally.  Each genus has a characteristic rhythm of branching and its own particular height:width ratio.  Of course, background trees can be treated more generally, but a tree portrait must have a likeness, akin to a portrait work.

This hawthorne tree in my neighborhood caught my eye.  We used to have one in our yard as well.  It branches low and sprouts long dangerous needles everywhere.  We also called it a "witch's tree".  My husband couldn't come close on his riding mower without fear of being spiked.  Still....I think the hawthorne is a beautiful and wild-looking tree.  Perhaps a metaphor for...............................

Elsie

Elsie's Winter Coat   charcoal/pastel   17 x 10.75

is a simple drawing.  My challenge:  using toned paper.  Using toned paper is something that appeals to many artists...it adds a twist to the usual black and white.  What we must keep in mind is that its inherent value must be considered as part of the drawing itself.  I started with a light midtone....values went up and down from there.  A band of ruptured color was added for excitement.  I tried to understate the spots while concentrating on the form of the cow.

Also a plus:  using a piece of paper that I had been hoarding for many years...its original intention completely forgotten.  That added some excitement to the mix.