Instagram

Friday, August 13, 2010

100's of Hours..365 Days of Drawing



After yesterday's wipe-out dud, I really needed a good drawing. Spent time on this one last night. It takes me almost as long to decide on what I am going to draw daily, and feel inspired by, as the actual drawing itself.

You would not believe the hours I have spent this year so far looking through reference material, dawdling online, choosing models, deciding on what to draw for the day. Must be in the 100's of hours of research at this point, eight and a half months into this daily challenge and not a SINGLE day missed so far.

Who cares if there is a dud in there? ME!


8 comments:

Harry Kent said...

beautiful work, Johanna. Great sensitivity to the medium and excellent choice of paper, allowing it to do its 'thing'. In fact, i'm enjoying the strength and freshness of all your work here.

Johanna Spinks said...

Thanks Harry. I like "freshness" used to describe my work.

Marian Fortunati said...

I think faces from different kinds of angles are particularly difficult to pull off.

But of course you did it. I get the feeling that this woman is looking intently at something --- almost reaching for it -- almost at my feet!

Ruth Andre said...

Johanna your work is lovely. I especially love this portrait.

Kelley Carey MacDonald said...

This might be my most favorite one... How do you feel your skill level has been affected by this daily exercise?

Johanna Spinks said...

thanks everyone....I tried to really 'feel' this as I was drawing it.

Johanna Spinks said...

Kelley, thanks! There is no question when you draw daily you are sharper overall. Like a musician practicing his scales.I heard it said that the biggest thing an artist can have, is confidence in their drawing. This has stuck with me. I will be reluctant to let my drawing discipline slip when the year ends because I have so relished that more confident feel especially around public demo's etc. But will be relieved not to post so publicly anymore when the is challenge done, January 2, 2011

The challenge has also pushed me to question what I am doing with my art in all directions, not just the drawing which is huge and something unexpected.

Hope Cunningham Daily Paintings said...

Oh yes I would believe it! One can say, I drew that in twenty minutes, but it doesn't reflect all the time put into thought, selection, preparation and training!