"These drawings were done for one reason only. To see before I die..."If there is one thing that I could provide people from an artistic perspective, it would be the ability to see. Really see.
Frederick Franck
Many people start a drawing with an idea in their head that goes back to childhood, based on known shape, size and colour. The object that is in front of them is immaterial in how it presents itself. It can be foreshortened, the lighting can change its colour or set shadows, but the individual will see the object in their mind's eye in a particular way.
I wish I could explain what it is like to see. From my perspective it can be almost distracting as I see shapes and colours in everything around me. I am hosting a drawing class and trying to ensure that people really see what is before them and how to translate that onto paper. Proportion and measure, light and shade become keys to a secret world that few others can see into. Its like those moments as a child when you look into a Viewmaster and see the 3D scenes but can't describe them to others. You know the objects or people or views, but they are seen through new eyes.
It isn't until you draw an object or person that you really see them. You know intimately the details and shapes and colours. Showing how to see, really see what is before you is a wonderful ability and when I see the light bulb of recognition and knowledge come on, it fills me with pleasure. For the person who realizes what they can do and for me to have been a part of that process.
This drawing is one of those teaching tools, a quick sketch from class to guide people into how to line up major reference points for measurement.
5 comments:
Hi, Jeannette.
I just wanted to tell you that I really admire your blog, especially as a fellow rural Canadian woman artist. I've enjoyed reading and seeing your beautiful art. I hope you don't mind that I've added a link to yours on mine.
Cheers,
Monica
Thanks for stopping by Monica and for your kind comments. A link is always welcome and I will look at your blog and add it to my list too.
Jeanette, it is always nice to hear another artist talk about really seeing things and how interesting that is. But it can also be an occupational hazard! I was looking at the sky early yesterday morning, enjoying the cloud shapes and how the rising sun highlighted some areas while others remained in shadow. Then I realized I had walked half a block without once looking where I was going! Luckily no one else was around to bump into. :D
I am trying to slowly teach my daughters to really see what they are drawing. It is a fascinating process.
Stacy (Fireman's kid)
Oh Stacy, I've done that too! And seen something interesting when driving then slammed on the brakes and made other drivers behind me crazy...
I've been painting faces and at work this week, I caught myself staring at people as I analyzed their eyes and lips.
Artists can get in trouble for their weird ways of seeing!
Post a Comment