Leaf Lesson

This week's sketching class focused on "near and far" and "in and out". I learned tips on how to help my drawings become more three dimensional. Whatever is closer should have a "primary mark" or darker line, while things further away are lighter, fading into "secondary marks". To accentuate a point, or a dip, make it darker. When one line intersects another, it should be darker as well. Light shading can bring out the dips, keeping the bump light. Shading can also connect the object to the ground, or bring out the space beneath the object.
These seemingly simple and small little tips can change a drawing so much! The more I learn, the better my sketching becomes!

Dad's Brush Set, Circa 1913

My Father-In-Law's baby brush and comb have managed to survive in excellent condition, for being almost one hundred years old! For the EDM Challenge #20, "Draw something DAD" I thought this would be an interesting subject. Dad went on to a career in law enforcement, so I considered adding his handcuffs to carry his story through, but vetoed that idea. I didn't want something hard and cold to be with something soft and nurturing.
I used 2B and 4B leads in clutch pencils for most of the drawing. I used my dirty chamios, for the shading. Then I used a bit of General's light blue watercolor pencil for a bit of color.

EDM Challenge #78, Draw a Souvenir

This is my first Every Day Matters Challenge Drawing. I have been admiring so many other EDM entries. I thought it was time for me to get busy and do one myself! I've found EDM by being a member of the yahoo group, http://groups.yahoo.com/group/everydaymatters/join. The group has provided me with plenty of art tips and instruction. Also I have made new friends, both in person, and all over the world via cyberspace. EDM offers encouragement to all artists, whether just beginning, or well accomplished!
This sketch is of the sealing wax and stamp that we purchased in York, England on a trip about fifteen years ago. It was in a wonderful store called Past Times (http://www.pasttimes.com/) that was oh so very British!
York was so memorable to us! The old and charming buildings on such narrow cobbled roads, an amazingly huge cathedral, and walls that surround the town that we walked upon! Michael loved the enormous train museum! (Well, it would have to be big, to fit so many real train engines inside!)