Wednesday, January 7, 2009

Exploratory Drawings

Getting to know you drawings are important. The first time I draw a new model, or start a new piece, I take some time to get to know not only shoulders, or breasts or ankles, but specifically that model's lines, the way her (or his) neck joins the torso, that curve where the hip shows its bone uniquely for the person in front of me. Some character line or atttitude that takes that model from everyman status to Cherylanne, or John. Same way on any subject. How does this form work? Where are the lights and darks? What curve or angle catches my eye? Is there a particular line that must be used, or where is the highest potential for contrast? How can I extend them for my purpose?

So here we have some exploratory drawings from the Pink Sale blooms I mentioned. The drawing on the lower left is a quick thumbnail of the bones of the larger piece. Intuitive and dead on for what I want to say with Magical Botanical. The bones, I have to know those first.

All the while that pink is teasing me. Whetting my appetite.

12 comments:

A Brush with Color said...

And nice bones they are! Sounds fun...

Janice C. Cartier said...

Working on 'em. ;-)

Parisbreakfasts said...

Oooooooooooooooo
Don't you just love thumnails?
Looking good!

Janice C. Cartier said...

I love thumbnails. Use them relentlessly. If it works on that scale, it works on any scale.

I am loving your Roccoco this am. So glad you showed the sketches.

Parisbreakfasts said...

Thanks!
Those birds ARE Hichcockian...maybe he saw that guide!
Ole sharp eyes!!! :)

Anonymous said...

Sketching your self is a great idea! I really love your work... I see you put your heart into it! Keep up the great work!

- kelly

Anonymous said...

Hi, Janice -
The drawings look beautiful. I adore flowers, so I can't wait to see your finished 'magical botanical'!

- Rebecca (another January baby!)

Janice C. Cartier said...

Hi Rebecca,
Another January baby? Yay! The more the merrier. I am going to love painting these.

kelly-Thanks so much. Drawing is an absolute must , which is good because I love to do it. I love to look at drawings as well... they bring us as close to the artist as you can get.

Janice C. Cartier said...

Hey PB,
Now I have to rewatch the movie. ;-)

ArtistUnplugged said...

Drawings are very nice, interesting to hear your thoughts and process. Didn't get to post about the pink yesterday, loved that post. What size paintings are you speaking of? Look forward to seeing the progress!

Janice C. Cartier said...

Thank you Unplugged. This particular piece will be on Somerset printmaking paper as part of my "Chaos" series. That will be 22" x 30".

I like that I am starting off the New Year "in the pink." Seems very right. ;-)

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