Deafening Sound of Skull Against A Brick Wall

You know the sound don't you? I know I'm not the only one. Frustration, uncertainty, lack of inspiration, it's in my head but I can't get it out, self-doubt...

Yeah, that's where I'm at. So I'm just going to keep sketching what is to hand until it passes. Yesterday, that was the banister across the room as the boys and I enjoyed a movie.

Beginning a Bluejay

WIP - Bluejay sketch
copyright Rose Welty

Just had time for a quick beginning here. This beautiful bird lives in our back woods somewhere - very camera shy, but I'm working on it.

Bearded Iris and Raleigh Storm

Bearded Iris from my garden (sketch)
9in x 12in

During the record breaking 8 tornados that hit North Carolina this weekend my family played board games and sketched. I had rescued some bearded irises from the yard before the storm hit. We had no damage. There were other areas with lots of destruction.

Carnation and Yard Projects

Carnation Sketch
7in x 5in
colored pencil on Stonehenge

Had some fun the other day, a quick stylized carnation from a bouquet.

The last several days have been busy with sorts of odd things happening...tooth emergencies, tummy bugs, pest control, etc. As well, this is the time of year to get on top of the yard, for a better summer. I try to do one large or three small yard "upgrades" a year. This year I have begun two small ones...a potted herb garden (which is more fun than you can imagine) and some stepping stones around the trash bins (so the noble soul who takes out the trash in the rain does not have to clean her shoes ;-).

Still room for a third one, but I suppose it will be just to add a few more plants to our garden (I hate weeding and thoroughly believe in over-planting) and maybe a few hanging pots for the front porch.

Three the Same and Not

Three
7in x 5in
colored pencil on Stonehenge

I have three sons. Just like these flowers - they are similar shapes and sizes. This surface commonality does not stop them from being entirely different in personality, reaction, and interest. Quite amazing really.

Bright Spot on a Rainy Day

Sketch from my bouquet
7in x 5in
colored pencil on Stonehenge

It's another rainy day here - we've had several in a row. Personally, I love this sort of weather - rain is my favorite. I always get weird looks when I say that, so I thought I'd give a bright spot for those of you pining for sun and heat.

One of the best things about rainy days: tea and coffee become absolutely luxurious!

Lost in Thought

Lost in Thought Sketch
10in x 8in
colored pencil on Stonehenge paper

A few months ago I did a drawing of my son sketching. I decided to revisit the application of color this week. This was my first use of "fawn" Stonehenge paper. I find it much softer than it's white counterpart. I can't decide if that's good or bad. At first I thought it was bad - color just seems to soak into the paper. But, on the good side, there is a softness to the final product which I like. More experimenting I suppose.

Getting Lost in Creation

The Artist's Son, Painting a Model
7in x 5in
colored pencil on paper

Over Christmas my son spent some of his "fun money" on paintable foam airplanes. He spent a few hours diligently painting stripes and designs on them. He was concentrating so hard and just thoroughly enjoying himself, he didn't realize I was there snapping pictures.

I had similar fun getting lost in this sketch for about 20 minutes this afternoon.

Clearing the Decks

Redbud Blossoms
7in x 5in
colored pencil on Stonehenge

Launched into today trying to get some things done so I could enjoy my studio time in the afternoon. It's amazing how motivating that can be. :D I got the decks cleared a bit, laundry is moving along, and I even made it through that stack of mail.

I began my studio time with a quick sketch of some more redbud blossoms. As I've mentioned before, I listen to podcasts while I work. I have come across some great history podcasts. I'll have to share a list with you soon - there is some fascinating information being provided out there, for free, in an entertaining way. Yay for podcasters!

Draw A Great Many Lines

Fuji and a Lemon - 30 minute sketch
7in x 5in
colored pencil on Stonehenge

Today I decided to poke back into my archives and find out what I was doing in March in past years. I came upon a quote from Ingres to Degas: "draw lines, young man, a great many lines." In the post I discussed how Degas took that advice to heart (he was a great admirer of Ingres and owned some of his work).


The focus on a great many lines seemed to fit with my sketch from last evening - just a few of the contents from my produce drawer.

Spring Daffodil Sketch

Daffodils Sketch
7in x 5in

Sometimes it's just fun to scribble.