Sunday, July 04, 2010

Drawing

 
We're all guilty of it at one time or another.  We push ahead, wanting to move into what we believe is the better place.  A place more interesting or one that will enable us to do what we enjoy more or to fulfil more quickly the vision that is in our heads.

For those that know me, they'll know that I mean the drawing.  For me, the underdrawing of a painting, especially watercolour or a portrait is a crucial element.  It is the backbone of the piece and without it, the chances of achieving that vision in my head usually fail.

Of course there are loose impressionistic pieces that can become something wonderful with the right brushstrokes and colour values under experienced hands.  But I need that groundwork to guide me, especially in complex pieces such as this one.


I spent most of this afternoon creating the drawing for a new painting.  Its another Purity Kisses piece, that chewy candy that is produced here.  I think part of the appeal for me is the drawing.  I love the complexity of the folds and lettering and how it bends and distorts as the paper folds over itself.

This is on 200lb watercolour paper and measures 15 x 22.

11 comments:

Carolyn Pappas said...

I also need to make detailed drawings as the first step. Do you make your drawing on a seperate sheet of paper and then transfer it somehow, or directly on the watercolor paper?

Jeanette Jobson said...

It varies Carolyn. Sometimes I draw directly on the watercolour paper if I have an idea that translates easily.

Sometimes I work out my ideas on tracing paper, then transfer from there.

sue said...

Wow! This is so elaborate--you have amazing drawing skills, Jeanette. This is going to be gorgeous. I will look forward to watching this evolve.

olivia said...

You're right Jeanette.
Good work !

Jeanette Jobson said...

Sue, drawing is my first love and what I focused on in early years. I could do line drawings forever I think. :)

Thanks Olivia.

Anudeepa Kadiresan said...

Beautiful drawing Jeanette,do you stretch your paper,just want to clear my doubt:)
well done.

Cynthia said...

mmmmthis is wonderful...can´t wait to see what happens next!

Jeanette Jobson said...

Thanks Anudeepa. I don't stretch this paper as its quite thick - 200lb weight so doesn't buckle. As well I'm not flooding the paper for this image either so that helps.

Hopefully an update tonight Cynthia.

Stacy said...

I'm the exact opposite Jeanette. The line drawing is my least favorite part. I do as little as possible so I can get onto the part I love - putting in the values that build form. This isn't an issue when I am using graphite or charcoal, but it's a lesson in patience when doing the line drawing for my watercolors.

dining room sets said...

I like drawing. I do make drawings of my own. What are you thinking when you are doing that drawing? The result is so wonderful.

Jeanette Jobson said...

I always love the drawing part, but yes sometimes I want to rush through it to get to the colour. But I know if I do that, especially in complex pieces, the end result is crappy for me.

dining room sets, when drawing I'm thinking only of what's in front of me. I need to concentrate purely on line and form. If my mind wandered, all would be lost.

When I draw I can't have distractions. I need to be alone, I need the room I'm in to be quiet. If the phone rings while I am in the middle of a piece, I don't answer it.