Introduction to Drawing

Thumbnail Sketch

Learning about negative and positive space

Blind contour of hand

Contour Sketches of Shoe 1

Contour Sketches of Shoe 2

I recently switched from Special Education to Graphic Communications. We discussed the difficulty of teacher certification from state-to-state. With plans to move every 2-3 years, I've decided to switch tracks and doing something more applicable.

These drawings are from Week 1 of my Introduction to Drawing class. I love playing on Adobe Illustrator and InDesign but drawing is not forte. However, I am learning a lot of the basics of art foundation. It has been my favorite class so far.

It's important to know where you once were to see what can you change in the future. I am grateful that I can acquire an education and learn new things everyday.

Spreading Good Cheer

I've established that 2015 is about creating more and making art. But I also want to encompass more kindness, cheer, and COLOR. I want more color in my life. Colors that do not just represent said blue, white, black, but expand on emotions and conviction and love and gratitude-- you get it. We do not have to wait until a new year occurs to be more kind. It starts today. It can start now. 

I love the idea of passalong cards. This was another collaborated work with my children. All you need are white cards, paint brushes, party poppers, markers (I used a chalk marker which isn't listed), an assortment of washi tape, acrylic paints, and a work place for a mess.

And paint away.

These are some of the combinations we made. The ends will curl after drying. I used a heavy book to press down to keep it flat. Use your washi tape to adhere the popper to card and write your message. I went back with a black marker and paint to add more definition for the "Happy New Year" lettering. Stick in a basket, bag, purse and pass the cards to strangers, friends, er, strangers. We passed them out yesterday while at the grocery store.

I think these would be a great idea for any season or holiday or just to spread a happy message. I hope that your resolutions have been drafted for 2015. I do not think it is cliche to make goals or plans or any endeavor of any sort. I am grateful to have the opportunity to reflect on what changes occurred and what downfalls helped me grow. Happy New Year's Eve.

100 Favorites: Black & White Doodle Art

This was a simple and fun activity. I was inspired by this simple art prompt where one writes down "100 things I love" page. I used a plain white 8 x 10 paper and black penmate pen.

During the process, my daughter joined me in making her own. The difficult thing with pursuing an art medium is not to expect perfection and letting the quirks reveal themselves. My daughter wanted to throw hers away but I insistently told her that there are no mistakes and to just enjoy the process.

This will be a great and positive reminder of who we are and what we love.

"Harmony in Red"

This painting is known to be one of Matisse's most famous masterpieces, what originally was suppose to be "Harmony in Blue," but Matisse was dissatisfied, so he painted over the entire piece in red. I feel that way about the my own creative endeavour sometimes. The older me will shout with praise one day.

On This Particular Weekend (Not In Subsequent Order)

I find the strong and sober stand of young David Balfour a welcoming inspiration for October's reads to follow. 

While watching General Conference, I deep-cleaned our bedroom, including the this-is-where-lost-things-go depository that exists under our bed. One session of conference later, I opted to lay around on the bed; scoffing grapes and sweet potato biscuits, and slumbering into oblivion.

Speaking of sweet potato biscuits, I am proud of my daughter for always wanting to help me make them. She can cut through biscuit dough like it 'aint a problem. 

My husband has the entire week off in celebration of his birthday. His few requests is to have a Mexican, cauliflower soup, and a Tres Leches cake.

I'm feeling a bit sluggish, as I didn't go to the gym at all last week. 

Watched this movie. Something about Phillipe Petite's manner of story telling was enchanting- so matter of the fact, so deliberate, so proud.

We are bleeding Pumpkin puree. I'm a strong advocate of the immersion of Fall's benevolent decumbent vine (next to winter squash). 

Owls

I thought I use my colored pencils, and try to sketch or draw up some owls I wanted to paint on board or two.